At Bridgeview, Illinois:
In Sunday's only Major League Soccer match, Jeff Cunningham (15') and Kenny Cooper (80') each scored a goal as FC Dallas, on the road, smothered the previously undefeated Chicago Fire 3-0.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chicago (GP: 12; GD: +4; PTS: 21)
2. Kansas City (GP: 12; GD: +2; PTS: 16)
3. DC United (GP: 12; GD: 1; PTS: 16)
4. Toronto FC (GP: 12; GD: -1; PTS: 16)
5. Columbus (GP: 11; GD: -2; PTS: 13)
6. New England (GP: 10; GD: -7; PTS: 13)
7. New York (GP: 12; GD: -4; PTS: 9)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 12; GD: +8; PTS: 24)
2. Houston (GP: 10; GD: +5; PTS: 18)
3. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 11; GD: +6; PTS: 17)
4. Colorado (GP: 10; GD: +3; PTS: 16)
5. Los Angeles (GP: 11; GD: 0; PTS: 12)
6. Real Salt Lake (GP: 11; GD: 0; PTS: 11)
7. FC Dallas (GP: 11; GD: -5; PTS: 9)
8. San Jose (GP: 11; GD: -10; PTS: 8)
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Milan Win Game But Lose Coach
At Florence, Italy:
Goals from Kaka (55') and Pato (76') lifted UEFA Champions League-bound AC Milan to a 2-0 road win over Fiorentina (who still clinched a qualifying berth for the Champions League). After the game, Rossoneri coach Carlo Ancelotti, linked in reports to possibly becoming the manager at Chelsea, resigned. Former Milan player Leonardo was named his successor.
Goals from Kaka (55') and Pato (76') lifted UEFA Champions League-bound AC Milan to a 2-0 road win over Fiorentina (who still clinched a qualifying berth for the Champions League). After the game, Rossoneri coach Carlo Ancelotti, linked in reports to possibly becoming the manager at Chelsea, resigned. Former Milan player Leonardo was named his successor.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Bordeaux Proclaimed Top Dogs In France
At Caen, France:
Yoan Gouffran scored the game's only goal at 49 minutes as Bordeaux locked up their first Ligue 1 title since 1999 with a 1-0 road win over Caen, who by losing, were themselves relegated.
Yoan Gouffran scored the game's only goal at 49 minutes as Bordeaux locked up their first Ligue 1 title since 1999 with a 1-0 road win over Caen, who by losing, were themselves relegated.
Werder Bremen Wins German Cup
At Berlin:
Mesut Ozil scored the only goal of the match at 58 minutes as Werder Bremen defeated Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 to win the German Cup final. Werder will take a crack at Europa League play next season.
Mesut Ozil scored the only goal of the match at 58 minutes as Werder Bremen defeated Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 to win the German Cup final. Werder will take a crack at Europa League play next season.
Saturday Action In MLS
Six contests populated the Saturday Major League Soccer schedule.
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
Conor Casey's double (25', 48') and Mehdi Ballouchy's successful penalty kick (60') enabled the visiting Colorado Rapids to hold off the New York Red Bulls 3-2.
At Foxborough, Massachusetts:
Steve Ralston's penalty kick at 90 minutes completed the New England Revolution's comeback as they overcame a one-goal halftime deficit to defeat visiting DC United 2-1.
At Houston:
First-half goals from Brad Davis (20'), Kei Kamara (22'), and Stuart Holden (24'), all in a five-minute span, lead the Houston Dynamo to a 3-0 home beatdown of Toronto FC.
At Carson, California:
Edson Buddle's equalizer at 87 minutes enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to salvage a 1-1 home deadlock with the Kansas City Wizards. Davy Arnaud scored for the visitors at 84 minutes.
At Santa Clara, California:
Goals from Cornell Glen (52') and Arturo Alvarez (63') paced the San Jose Earthquakes to a rare win, 2-1 at home over Real Salt Lake.
At Seattle:
Nate Jaqua's goal at 58 minutes lifted Seattle Sounders FC to a 1-1 home stalemate with the Columbus Crew. The visitors got a score from Alejandro Moreno at 12 minutes.
In a game played this past Tuesday, the Sounders qualified for the US Open Cup with a 1-0 win over the Colorado Rapids at Tukwila, Washington. Kevin Forrest scored the game's lone goal at 62 minutes.
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
Conor Casey's double (25', 48') and Mehdi Ballouchy's successful penalty kick (60') enabled the visiting Colorado Rapids to hold off the New York Red Bulls 3-2.
At Foxborough, Massachusetts:
Steve Ralston's penalty kick at 90 minutes completed the New England Revolution's comeback as they overcame a one-goal halftime deficit to defeat visiting DC United 2-1.
At Houston:
First-half goals from Brad Davis (20'), Kei Kamara (22'), and Stuart Holden (24'), all in a five-minute span, lead the Houston Dynamo to a 3-0 home beatdown of Toronto FC.
At Carson, California:
Edson Buddle's equalizer at 87 minutes enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to salvage a 1-1 home deadlock with the Kansas City Wizards. Davy Arnaud scored for the visitors at 84 minutes.
At Santa Clara, California:
Goals from Cornell Glen (52') and Arturo Alvarez (63') paced the San Jose Earthquakes to a rare win, 2-1 at home over Real Salt Lake.
At Seattle:
Nate Jaqua's goal at 58 minutes lifted Seattle Sounders FC to a 1-1 home stalemate with the Columbus Crew. The visitors got a score from Alejandro Moreno at 12 minutes.
In a game played this past Tuesday, the Sounders qualified for the US Open Cup with a 1-0 win over the Colorado Rapids at Tukwila, Washington. Kevin Forrest scored the game's lone goal at 62 minutes.
A Nacho Goal Seals Scottish Cup Title For Rangers
At Glasgow, Scotland:
Rangers, who last week won the Scottish Premier League title, completed their domestic double by winning the Scottish Cup title, beating Falkirk 1-0 on Saturday. Nacho Novo scored the game's only goal at 46 minutes.
Rangers, who last week won the Scottish Premier League title, completed their domestic double by winning the Scottish Cup title, beating Falkirk 1-0 on Saturday. Nacho Novo scored the game's only goal at 46 minutes.
Blues Give Guus Swell Going-Away Present
At London:
Goals from Didier Drogba (21') and Frank Lampard (72', he's seen here celebrating with Nicola
s Anelka; Empics photo from Neal Simpson) enabled Chelsea to come from behind to defeat Everton 2-1 to capture their fifth FA Cup championship at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, in Guus Hiddink's final game as Blues' interim manager. The Toffees' Louis Saha scored the fastest goal in FA Cup final history at 26 seconds into 
the match. In this photo (Adrian Dennis for Getty Images), we see jubilant Blues with the FA Cup.
Goals from Didier Drogba (21') and Frank Lampard (72', he's seen here celebrating with Nicola
s Anelka; Empics photo from Neal Simpson) enabled Chelsea to come from behind to defeat Everton 2-1 to capture their fifth FA Cup championship at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, in Guus Hiddink's final game as Blues' interim manager. The Toffees' Louis Saha scored the fastest goal in FA Cup final history at 26 seconds into 
the match. In this photo (Adrian Dennis for Getty Images), we see jubilant Blues with the FA Cup.Friday, May 29, 2009
Peter Nowak Hired As Philly's Manager
At Chester, Pennsylvania:
The Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer expansion club scheduled to begin play next year, hired former DC United coach Peter Nowak as their first manager on Friday.
He remains the only man in MLS history to win a league title as a player (Chicago Fire, 1998) and as head coach (DC United, 2004)
The Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer expansion club scheduled to begin play next year, hired former DC United coach Peter Nowak as their first manager on Friday.
He remains the only man in MLS history to win a league title as a player (Chicago Fire, 1998) and as head coach (DC United, 2004)
Pumas Take Finals Opener
At Mexico City:
UNAM Pumas took the opening match 1-0 at home Thursday night of the Mexican Premier Division's Clausura Liguilla final against Pachuca. Dante Lopez provided the game's only goal at 21 minutes. The second and final game of this two-match series will take place on Sunday at Pachuca.
The article I have linked to is in Spanish.
UNAM Pumas took the opening match 1-0 at home Thursday night of the Mexican Premier Division's Clausura Liguilla final against Pachuca. Dante Lopez provided the game's only goal at 21 minutes. The second and final game of this two-match series will take place on Sunday at Pachuca.
The article I have linked to is in Spanish.
Champions League Final: Personal Thoughts
As I was watching the first nine or so minutes of Wednesday's Champions League final, I noticed that Manchester United were running on all cylinders and looked like a threat to perhaps make things rough for Barcelona. After Samuel Eto'o scored at 10 minutes, it looked like the Catalains began to exert control over the match, and after Lionel Messi's insurance tally at 70 minutes, the Red Devils really lost what steam they had left.
This game was also a testament to the growing popularity of Europe's elite club championship here in the States.
The pressure is going to be on Fox Soccer Channel to deliver close o the numbers ESPN/ESPN 2 produced for their coverage.
This game was also a testament to the growing popularity of Europe's elite club championship here in the States.
The pressure is going to be on Fox Soccer Channel to deliver close o the numbers ESPN/ESPN 2 produced for their coverage.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Pair Of Blanco PK's Put Fire Over Goats
At Carson, California:
Two successful penalty kicks from Cuauhtemoc Blanco (25', 90'+6) helped the Chicago Fire post a 3-2 come-from-behind road win over Chivas USA in Thursday's lone Major League Soccer contest.
Two successful penalty kicks from Cuauhtemoc Blanco (25', 90'+6) helped the Chicago Fire post a 3-2 come-from-behind road win over Chivas USA in Thursday's lone Major League Soccer contest.
Estudiantes Take Series Opener; Nacional (Uruguay) And Palmeiras Draw
The opening week of quarterfinal round play in the Copa Libertadores concluded Thursday.
At Montevideo, Uruguay:
Leandro Desabato scored the game's only goal at 13 minutes as Estudiantes defeated Defensor Sporting 1-0 on the road in game one of their two-match set.
At Sao Paolo, Brazil:
Palmeiras and visiting Nacional (Uruguay) played to a 1-1 draw in the opening match of their two-game series. Diego Souza put the hosts up 1-0 at 55 minutes, but Nacional's Santiago Garcia equalized at 80 minutes.
At Montevideo, Uruguay:
Leandro Desabato scored the game's only goal at 13 minutes as Estudiantes defeated Defensor Sporting 1-0 on the road in game one of their two-match set.
At Sao Paolo, Brazil:
Palmeiras and visiting Nacional (Uruguay) played to a 1-1 draw in the opening match of their two-game series. Diego Souza put the hosts up 1-0 at 55 minutes, but Nacional's Santiago Garcia equalized at 80 minutes.
Impact Ousted
At Burnaby, British Columbia:
Ethan Gage scored the only goal of the match at 67 minutes as the Vancouver Whitecaps defeated the visiting Montreal Impact 1-0 on Wednesday to eliminate the defending champions from the Nutrilite Canadian Tournament. That means there will be a new Canadian representative in the 2009-10 CONCACAF Champions League.
STANDINGS:
1. Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 3; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 4)
3. Montreal Impact# (GP: 3; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
#Eliminated
Ethan Gage scored the only goal of the match at 67 minutes as the Vancouver Whitecaps defeated the visiting Montreal Impact 1-0 on Wednesday to eliminate the defending champions from the Nutrilite Canadian Tournament. That means there will be a new Canadian representative in the 2009-10 CONCACAF Champions League.
STANDINGS:
1. Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 3; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 4)
3. Montreal Impact# (GP: 3; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
#Eliminated
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Crew Come From Behind To Nip Quakes
At Columbus, Ohio:
Goals from Eddie Gaven (29') and Guillermo Barros Schelotto (46') powered the Columbus Crew to a 2-1 home come-from-behind win over the struggling San Jose Earthquakes.
Goals from Eddie Gaven (29') and Guillermo Barros Schelotto (46') powered the Columbus Crew to a 2-1 home come-from-behind win over the struggling San Jose Earthquakes.
Cruzeiro Capture Quarterfinal Opener; Caracus and Gremio Draw
Wednesday marked the beginning of quarterfinal round action in the Copa Libertadores.
At Belo Horizonte, Brazil:
Goals courtesy of Leonardo Silva (45') and Ze Maria (65') paced Cruzeiro to a 2-1 home win over Sao Paolo in game one of their two-game series.
At Caracas, Venezuela:
Fabio Santos' equalizer (74') enabled Gremio to gain a game one 1-1 road draw with Caracas FC, whose goal came at 2 minutes from Gabriel Cichero.
At Belo Horizonte, Brazil:
Goals courtesy of Leonardo Silva (45') and Ze Maria (65') paced Cruzeiro to a 2-1 home win over Sao Paolo in game one of their two-game series.
At Caracas, Venezuela:
Fabio Santos' equalizer (74') enabled Gremio to gain a game one 1-1 road draw with Caracas FC, whose goal came at 2 minutes from Gabriel Cichero.
IT'S BARCA!
At Rome:
With goals from S
amuel Eto'o (10') and Lionel Messi (70', pictured here), FC Barcelona won their third UEFA Champions League title Wednesday night with a 2-0 win over defending champions Manchester United. The Red Devils got off to a blazing start in the game, but after the Samuel Eto'o goal, Man U gradually ran out of steam. Looks like Lionel Messi did, in more ways than one, get the measure of Cr
istiano Ronaldo.
The Catalains will play in December's FIFA Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.
It was quite a season for first-year coach Pep Guardiola. Barca won the La Liga crown, the Copa del Rey, and now, the Champions League title.
Pictured here, are happy Barch players, celebrating their triumph, with Carles Puyol holding the trophy.
Both Photos © Getty Images
With goals from S
amuel Eto'o (10') and Lionel Messi (70', pictured here), FC Barcelona won their third UEFA Champions League title Wednesday night with a 2-0 win over defending champions Manchester United. The Red Devils got off to a blazing start in the game, but after the Samuel Eto'o goal, Man U gradually ran out of steam. Looks like Lionel Messi did, in more ways than one, get the measure of Cr
istiano Ronaldo.The Catalains will play in December's FIFA Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.
It was quite a season for first-year coach Pep Guardiola. Barca won the La Liga crown, the Copa del Rey, and now, the Champions League title.
Pictured here, are happy Barch players, celebrating their triumph, with Carles Puyol holding the trophy.
Both Photos © Getty Images
Bunyodkor Back In Quarters
The West Asian portion of the round of 16 in the AFC Champions League concluded Wednesday.
At Tehran, Iran:
Rivaldo's successful penalty kick at 41 minutes provided all the scoring as FC Bunyodkor defeated Persepolis FC 1-0 on the road.
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
In a battle of Saudi Arabian clubs, Al-Ittihad, with goals from Osama Al-Harbi (46') and Hicham Aboucherouane (90'), defeated visiting Al-Shabab 2-1 to reach the quarterfinal round.
At Damman, Saudi Arabia:
Zaynitdin Tadjyev (79') and Alexander Geynrikh (90'+1) provided the goalpower as Pakhtakor Tashkent came from behind to defeat Al-Ettifaq 2-1 on the road.
At Tehran, Iran:
Rivaldo's successful penalty kick at 41 minutes provided all the scoring as FC Bunyodkor defeated Persepolis FC 1-0 on the road.
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
In a battle of Saudi Arabian clubs, Al-Ittihad, with goals from Osama Al-Harbi (46') and Hicham Aboucherouane (90'), defeated visiting Al-Shabab 2-1 to reach the quarterfinal round.
At Damman, Saudi Arabia:
Zaynitdin Tadjyev (79') and Alexander Geynrikh (90'+1) provided the goalpower as Pakhtakor Tashkent came from behind to defeat Al-Ettifaq 2-1 on the road.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Qatari Club Reaches Quarterfinals
At Riyada, Saudi Arabia:
After 120 scoreless minutes, successful conversions by Aziz Ben Askar, Magno Alves, Mohamed Husain, and Ibrahima N'Daiye powered Umm-Salal to a 4-3 win in the penalty-kick shootout on the road against Al-Hilal to advance to the quarterfinal round of the AFC Champions League.
After 120 scoreless minutes, successful conversions by Aziz Ben Askar, Magno Alves, Mohamed Husain, and Ibrahima N'Daiye powered Umm-Salal to a 4-3 win in the penalty-kick shootout on the road against Al-Hilal to advance to the quarterfinal round of the AFC Champions League.
European Spots For Half The SPL
Are you kiddin'?
By winning the SPL title, Rangers directly qualified for the UEFA Champions League's group stage.
Celtic will attempt to qualify for the Champions League's group stage.
Hearts and Aberdeen, by finishing third and fourth respectively, qualified for Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup) play.
By finishing second in Scotland's Fair Play League, Motherwell has also qualified for Europa League play.
By reaching the final of Scotland's big domestic cup competition, Falkirk, who escaped relegation on Saturday by knocking off Inverness CT in their final league game, also qualified for Europa League play.
By winning the SPL title, Rangers directly qualified for the UEFA Champions League's group stage.
Celtic will attempt to qualify for the Champions League's group stage.
Hearts and Aberdeen, by finishing third and fourth respectively, qualified for Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup) play.
By finishing second in Scotland's Fair Play League, Motherwell has also qualified for Europa League play.
By reaching the final of Scotland's big domestic cup competition, Falkirk, who escaped relegation on Saturday by knocking off Inverness CT in their final league game, also qualified for Europa League play.
Super Mario Leaves Stuttgart For Bayern
Mario Gomez has left VfB Stuttgart to join Bayern Munich in a deal that could make him the most expensive player in the history of Germany's Bundesliga.
With the money they're paying him, Mario had better be super.
With the money they're paying him, Mario had better be super.
Martin Jol Becomes New Head Man At Ajax
Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Martin Jol has left Hamburg SV Tuesday to take over as head coach at Ajax Amsterdam on a three-year contract.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Celtic Manager Quits
Even after having won three straight SPL crowns, if you lose out on winning a fourth straight title, and the championship is won by your hated archrival, perhaps it is time to step down.
Sadly, Another One From The People Are No Damned Good Department
The contentiousness between fans of Rangers and Celtic is not limited to Glasgow.
Clarets End 33-Year Wait
At London:
Wade Elliot scored the game's only goal at 13 minutes as Burnley defeated Sheffield United 1-0 at Wembley Stadium on Monday to win the League Championship promotion final and gain promotion to the top flight of English soccer for the first time since 1976. The Clarets next season will play their first season in the Premiership.
Burnley joins Wolverhampton and Birmingham City in winning promotion to the Premier League.
Wade Elliot scored the game's only goal at 13 minutes as Burnley defeated Sheffield United 1-0 at Wembley Stadium on Monday to win the League Championship promotion final and gain promotion to the top flight of English soccer for the first time since 1976. The Clarets next season will play their first season in the Premiership.
Burnley joins Wolverhampton and Birmingham City in winning promotion to the Premier League.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Fire Remain Unbeaten Following Road Win Over Red Bulls
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
In the lone Sunday Major League Soccer match, Chris Rolfe scored the game's only goal (45') as the Chicago Fire remained unbeaten following their 1-0 road win over the New York Red Bulls.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chicago (GP: 10; GD: +6; PTS: 18)
2. DC United (GP: 11; GD: +2; PTS: 16)
3. Toronto FC (GP: 11; GD: 0; PTS: 16)
4. Kansas City (GP: 11; GD: +2; PTS: 15)
5. New England (GP: 9; GD: -8; PTS: 10)
6. New York (GP: 11; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
7. Columbus (GP: 9; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 11; GD: +9; PTS: 24)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 10; GD: +6; PTS: 16)
3. Houston (GP: 9; GD: +4; PTS: 15)
4. Colorado (GP: 9; GD: +2; PTS: 13)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 10; GD: +1; PTS: 11)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 10; GD: 0; PTS: 11)
7. FC Dallas (GP: 10; GD: -8; PTS: 6)
8. San Jose (GP: 9; GD: -10; PTS: 5)
In the lone Sunday Major League Soccer match, Chris Rolfe scored the game's only goal (45') as the Chicago Fire remained unbeaten following their 1-0 road win over the New York Red Bulls.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chicago (GP: 10; GD: +6; PTS: 18)
2. DC United (GP: 11; GD: +2; PTS: 16)
3. Toronto FC (GP: 11; GD: 0; PTS: 16)
4. Kansas City (GP: 11; GD: +2; PTS: 15)
5. New England (GP: 9; GD: -8; PTS: 10)
6. New York (GP: 11; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
7. Columbus (GP: 9; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 11; GD: +9; PTS: 24)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 10; GD: +6; PTS: 16)
3. Houston (GP: 9; GD: +4; PTS: 15)
4. Colorado (GP: 9; GD: +2; PTS: 13)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 10; GD: +1; PTS: 11)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 10; GD: 0; PTS: 11)
7. FC Dallas (GP: 10; GD: -8; PTS: 6)
8. San Jose (GP: 9; GD: -10; PTS: 5)
Rangers Rule Roost In Scotland
Sunday marked the end of the Scottish Premier League season. The two Old Firm archrivals were battling it out for the SPL crown.
At Dundee:
Goals from Kyle Lafferty (6'), Miguel Pedro Mendes (45'), and Kris Boyd (52') lifted Rangers to a 3-0 road beatdown of Dundee United to claim the Scottish Premiership title for the first time in four year.
The defeat ruined the Tangerines' centenary as the loss, coupled with Aberdeen's 2-1 win over Hibernian saw the Dons overtake DU for the final Europa League berth.
Meanwhile, at Glasgow:
Three-time defending SPL kingpins Celtic were held to a 0-0 home draw by Hearts.
At Dundee:
Goals from Kyle Lafferty (6'), Miguel Pedro Mendes (45'), and Kris Boyd (52') lifted Rangers to a 3-0 road beatdown of Dundee United to claim the Scottish Premiership title for the first time in four year.
The defeat ruined the Tangerines' centenary as the loss, coupled with Aberdeen's 2-1 win over Hibernian saw the Dons overtake DU for the final Europa League berth.
Meanwhile, at Glasgow:
Three-time defending SPL kingpins Celtic were held to a 0-0 home draw by Hearts.
Black Cats and Tigers Stay Up; Magpies and Boro Relegated
The English Premier League season ended Sunday. I'm going to concentrate on games involving relegation-threatened clubs.
At Birmingham:
Damien Duff's own goal (38') condemned Newcastle United into the League Championship as the Magpies fell 1-0 on the road to Aston Villa.
At London:
Goals from Carlton Cole (33') and Junior Stanislas (58') lifted West Ham United to a 2-1 home win over Middlesborough, who were relegated from the Premiership as a result.
At Sunderland:
Despite losing 3-2 at home to Chelsea, Sunderland were assured of another season in the Premier League. Kieran Richardson (53') and Kenwyne Jones (90') provided the scoring for the Black Cats, who are looking for a new manager, as Ricky Sbragia stepped down following the match. It was Guus Hiddink's final Premier League match as boss at Chelsea, who this coming Saturday will play in the FA Cup final against Everton at Wembley Stadium. He will remain the head coach of Russia's national team. The Blues, who finished third in the EPL, got goals from Nicolas Anelka (47'), Salomon Kalou (74'), and Ashley Cole (86').
At Hull:
Darron Gibson scored the only goal of the match (24') as Manchester United, who already locked up the Premiership crown and were resting up for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League final in Rome against Barcelona, defeated Hull City 1-0 on the road. Despite losing the match (and winning only one of their last 22 league contests), the Tigers survived to stay in the Premier League next season.
At Birmingham:
Damien Duff's own goal (38') condemned Newcastle United into the League Championship as the Magpies fell 1-0 on the road to Aston Villa.
At London:
Goals from Carlton Cole (33') and Junior Stanislas (58') lifted West Ham United to a 2-1 home win over Middlesborough, who were relegated from the Premiership as a result.
At Sunderland:
Despite losing 3-2 at home to Chelsea, Sunderland were assured of another season in the Premier League. Kieran Richardson (53') and Kenwyne Jones (90') provided the scoring for the Black Cats, who are looking for a new manager, as Ricky Sbragia stepped down following the match. It was Guus Hiddink's final Premier League match as boss at Chelsea, who this coming Saturday will play in the FA Cup final against Everton at Wembley Stadium. He will remain the head coach of Russia's national team. The Blues, who finished third in the EPL, got goals from Nicolas Anelka (47'), Salomon Kalou (74'), and Ashley Cole (86').
At Hull:
Darron Gibson scored the only goal of the match (24') as Manchester United, who already locked up the Premiership crown and were resting up for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League final in Rome against Barcelona, defeated Hull City 1-0 on the road. Despite losing the match (and winning only one of their last 22 league contests), the Tigers survived to stay in the Premier League next season.
Iron Promoted To League Championship
At London:
Scunthorpe United came back from a one-goal deficit to defeat Millwall 3-2 to win the final of England's League One promotion playoffs and gain promotion back to the League Championship (where they are returning after a one-year stint in the Third Division). Matthew Sparrow scored twice (6', 70') and Martyn Woolford added the promotion winner (85') for the Iron, while Gary Alexander scored both goals (37', 39') for the defeated Lions.
Scunthorpe United will join Leicester City and Peterborough United in joining the second level of English soccer from League One.
Scunthorpe United came back from a one-goal deficit to defeat Millwall 3-2 to win the final of England's League One promotion playoffs and gain promotion back to the League Championship (where they are returning after a one-year stint in the Third Division). Matthew Sparrow scored twice (6', 70') and Martyn Woolford added the promotion winner (85') for the Iron, while Gary Alexander scored both goals (37', 39') for the defeated Lions.
Scunthorpe United will join Leicester City and Peterborough United in joining the second level of English soccer from League One.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
TFC Triple Revs; Houston, Too; Four More Draws
Six games were contested Saturday in Major League Soccer.
At Toronto:
A Dwayne De Rosario goal (67') was sandwiched between a pair of tallies from Amado Guevara (14', 70') as Toronto FC defeated the visiting New England Revolution 3-1.
At Washington:
Real Salt Lake gained their first point on the road by holding DC United to a 0-0 stalemate. DCU's unbeaten streak has now reached seven games.
At Kansas City, Kansas:
Eduardo Lillingston's equalizer (64') lifted Chivas USA to a 1-1 road deadlock with the Kansas City Wizards. Claudio Lopez scored at 56 minutes for the hosts.
At Frisco, Texas:
FC Dallas salvaged a 1-1 home draw with the Los Angeles Galaxy, thanks to Drew Moor's equalizer at 31 minutes. Landon Donovan scored for the Galaxy at 3 minutes.
At Houston:
Goals from Brian Ching (4'), Kei Kamara (12'), and Craig Waibel (50') enabled the Houston Dynamo to hold off the visiting San Jose Earthquakes 3-1.
At Commerce City, Colorado:
Goals from Fredy Montero (17') and Nate Jaqua (76') lifted the Seattle Sounders to a 2-2 road deadlock with the Colorado Rapids, who got tallies from Colin Clark (25) and Conor Casey (47').
At Toronto:
A Dwayne De Rosario goal (67') was sandwiched between a pair of tallies from Amado Guevara (14', 70') as Toronto FC defeated the visiting New England Revolution 3-1.
At Washington:
Real Salt Lake gained their first point on the road by holding DC United to a 0-0 stalemate. DCU's unbeaten streak has now reached seven games.
At Kansas City, Kansas:
Eduardo Lillingston's equalizer (64') lifted Chivas USA to a 1-1 road deadlock with the Kansas City Wizards. Claudio Lopez scored at 56 minutes for the hosts.
At Frisco, Texas:
FC Dallas salvaged a 1-1 home draw with the Los Angeles Galaxy, thanks to Drew Moor's equalizer at 31 minutes. Landon Donovan scored for the Galaxy at 3 minutes.
At Houston:
Goals from Brian Ching (4'), Kei Kamara (12'), and Craig Waibel (50') enabled the Houston Dynamo to hold off the visiting San Jose Earthquakes 3-1.
At Commerce City, Colorado:
Goals from Fredy Montero (17') and Nate Jaqua (76') lifted the Seattle Sounders to a 2-2 road deadlock with the Colorado Rapids, who got tallies from Colin Clark (25) and Conor Casey (47').
Wolfsburg Claim First Bundesliga Title
At Wolfsburg, Germany:
Grafite's double (15', 56') was part of an offensive barrage that saw VfL Wolfsburg manhandle visiting Werder Bremen 5-1 to win their first Bundesliga championship.
Grafite's double (15', 56') was part of an offensive barrage that saw VfL Wolfsburg manhandle visiting Werder Bremen 5-1 to win their first Bundesliga championship.
Gills Win Promotion To League One
At London:
Simeon Jackson's header at the end of the 90th minute proved to be the only goal of the match as Gillingham defeated Shrewsbury Town 1-0 to win the English Football League's League Two promotion final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. The Gills will join Brentford, Exeter City, and Wycombe Wanderers in moving up to League One next season.
Simeon Jackson's header at the end of the 90th minute proved to be the only goal of the match as Gillingham defeated Shrewsbury Town 1-0 to win the English Football League's League Two promotion final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. The Gills will join Brentford, Exeter City, and Wycombe Wanderers in moving up to League One next season.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Whitecaps Put Impact On Brink Of Elimination
At Montreal:
Marcus Haber (1') and Charles Gbeke (17') each notched a first-half goal as the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps blanked the Montreal Impact 2-0 in Nurtilite Canadian Championship play on Wednesday. The loss put the Impact on the brink of elimination from the tournament that they won last year.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Vancouver (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Montreal (GP: 2; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
If they fail to defeat Vancouver on the road next Wednesday, Montreal will be eliminated.
Marcus Haber (1') and Charles Gbeke (17') each notched a first-half goal as the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps blanked the Montreal Impact 2-0 in Nurtilite Canadian Championship play on Wednesday. The loss put the Impact on the brink of elimination from the tournament that they won last year.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Vancouver (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Montreal (GP: 2; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
If they fail to defeat Vancouver on the road next Wednesday, Montreal will be eliminated.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Boca Knocked Out Of Copa
At Buenos Aires, Argentina:
Diego De Souza Caballo scored the only goal (27') of match number two as Defensor Sporting defeated Boca Juniors on the road 1-0 to win their two-match set 4 points to 1 on aggregate.
That match on Thursday wraped up the first knockout round of the Copa Libertadores.
The quarterfinal round begins next Tuesday with the opening matches of the respective two-match series.
Two matches will be played next Tuesday with the other two quarterfinal series opening on Wednesday.
The return contests will take place on June 17 and 18.
The matchups:
Gremio vs. Caracas FC
Estudiantes vs. Defensor Sporting
Nacional (Uruguay) vs. Palmeiras
Sao Paolo FC vs. Cruzeiro
There will be at least one Brazilian club in the semifinals.
Diego De Souza Caballo scored the only goal (27') of match number two as Defensor Sporting defeated Boca Juniors on the road 1-0 to win their two-match set 4 points to 1 on aggregate.
That match on Thursday wraped up the first knockout round of the Copa Libertadores.
The quarterfinal round begins next Tuesday with the opening matches of the respective two-match series.
Two matches will be played next Tuesday with the other two quarterfinal series opening on Wednesday.
The return contests will take place on June 17 and 18.
The matchups:
Gremio vs. Caracas FC
Estudiantes vs. Defensor Sporting
Nacional (Uruguay) vs. Palmeiras
Sao Paolo FC vs. Cruzeiro
There will be at least one Brazilian club in the semifinals.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Reggina Relegated
At Rome:
Mauro Zarate scored the game's lone goal (26') as Lazio defeated visiting Reggina 1-0 in Wednesday Serie A play. The loss sealed relegation for the guests.
Mauro Zarate scored the game's lone goal (26') as Lazio defeated visiting Reggina 1-0 in Wednesday Serie A play. The loss sealed relegation for the guests.
DC United Qualifies For US Open Cup
At Washington:
Goals from Chris Pontius (8', 52'), Thabiso Khumalo (18'), Brandon Barklage (21'), and Fred (28') helped DC United hold off the New York Red Bulls 5-3 at home on Wednesday to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.
Goals from Chris Pontius (8', 52'), Thabiso Khumalo (18'), Brandon Barklage (21'), and Fred (28') helped DC United hold off the New York Red Bulls 5-3 at home on Wednesday to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.
AFC Champions League: Group Stage Play Concludes
Group stage play in the AFC Champions League concluded Wednesday.
Group A:
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Al-Hilal, with goals from Mohammad Al-Anbar (37') and Ahmed Al-Swaileh (64'), blanked visiting Pakhtakor Tashkent to win Group A. Both clubs already locked up berths in the knockout stage.
At Dubai, UAE
With five different goal scorers tallying once apiece, Saba Battery FC outlasts hosts Al-Ahli 5-3.
FINAL GROUP A STANDINGS:
1. Al-Hilal (GP: 6; GD: +6; PTS: 14)
2. Pakhtakor Tashkent (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 13)
3. Saba Battery FC (GP: 6; GD: -2; PTS: 5)
4. Al-Ahli (GP: 6; GD: -8; PTS: 1)
Al Hilal and Pakhtakor Tashkent advanced to the knockout stage.
Group B:
At Tehran, Iran:
Moshen Khalili scored the game's only goal (46') as Persepolis FC defeated visiting Al-Shabab 1-0 in a battle of knockout-stage-bound clubs.
FINAL GROUP B STANDINGS:
1. Persepolis FC (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 7)
2. Al-Shabab (GP: 4; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
3. Al-Gharafa (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
Persepolis FC and Al-Shabab advanced to the knockout stage.
Group E:
At Peking, China:
Gou Hui scored the equalizer at 81 minutes to enable Beijing Guoan to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Nagoya Grampus (whose Oribe Niikawa scored at 35 minutes).
At Ulsan, South Korea:
Jason Hoffman's goal at 36 minutes powered Newcastle United Jets into the knockout stage as the Australian club defeated Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i 1-0 on the road to claim Group E's second knockout stage berth.
FINAL GROUP E STANDINGS:
1. Nagoya Grampus (GP: 6; GD: +6; PTS: 12)
2. Newcastle United Jets (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
3. Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i (GP: 6; GD: -6; PTS: 6)
4. Beijing Guoan (GP: 6; GD: -1; PTS: 5)
Nagoya Grampus and Newcastle United Jets advanced to the knockout stage.
Group F:
At Osaka, Japan:
Dejan Damjanovic (74') and Kim Han-Yoon (90'+1) provided the scoring that enabled FC Seoul to come from behind to post a 2-1 road win over Gamba Osaka and join the Japanese club in the knockout stage.
At Palembang, Indonesia:
Even though they had an otherwise abysmal showing in this year's Asian Champions League, Sriwijaya FC did not quit and they knocked off visiting Shandong Luneng 4-2 for their first win of the tounament and ruining any hope the Chinese club had of advancing to the round of 16. Zah Rahan Krangar doubled (73', 80') for the hosts, who erased a two-goal deficit.
FINAL GROUP F STANDINGS:
1. Gamba Osaka (GP: 6; GD: +13; PTS: 15)
2. FC Seoul (GP: 6; GD: +3; PTS: 10)
3. Shandong Luneng (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 7)
4. Swijiyaya FC (GP: 6 ; GD: -17; PTS: 3)
Gamba Osaka and FC Seoul advanced to the knockout stage.
The round of 16 will consist of one-match sets (or one-legged ties).
The home clubs will be listed first.
West Asia, May 27:
Al-Hilal vs. Umm-Salal at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Persepolis FC vs. FC Bunyodkor at Tehran, Iran
Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Shabab at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Al-Ettifaq vs. Pakhtakor Tashkent at Dammam, Saudi Arabia
East Asia, June 24:
Nagoya Grampus vs. Suwon Bluewings at Nagoya, Japan
Gamba Osaka vs. Kawasaki Frontale at Suita, Japan
Kashima Antlers vs. FC Seoul at Kashima, Japan
Pohang Steelers vs. Newcastle United Jets at Pohang, South Korea
The winners of these matches would advance to the quarterfinal round.
Group A:
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Al-Hilal, with goals from Mohammad Al-Anbar (37') and Ahmed Al-Swaileh (64'), blanked visiting Pakhtakor Tashkent to win Group A. Both clubs already locked up berths in the knockout stage.
At Dubai, UAE
With five different goal scorers tallying once apiece, Saba Battery FC outlasts hosts Al-Ahli 5-3.
FINAL GROUP A STANDINGS:
1. Al-Hilal (GP: 6; GD: +6; PTS: 14)
2. Pakhtakor Tashkent (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 13)
3. Saba Battery FC (GP: 6; GD: -2; PTS: 5)
4. Al-Ahli (GP: 6; GD: -8; PTS: 1)
Al Hilal and Pakhtakor Tashkent advanced to the knockout stage.
Group B:
At Tehran, Iran:
Moshen Khalili scored the game's only goal (46') as Persepolis FC defeated visiting Al-Shabab 1-0 in a battle of knockout-stage-bound clubs.
FINAL GROUP B STANDINGS:
1. Persepolis FC (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 7)
2. Al-Shabab (GP: 4; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
3. Al-Gharafa (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
Persepolis FC and Al-Shabab advanced to the knockout stage.
Group E:
At Peking, China:
Gou Hui scored the equalizer at 81 minutes to enable Beijing Guoan to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Nagoya Grampus (whose Oribe Niikawa scored at 35 minutes).
At Ulsan, South Korea:
Jason Hoffman's goal at 36 minutes powered Newcastle United Jets into the knockout stage as the Australian club defeated Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i 1-0 on the road to claim Group E's second knockout stage berth.
FINAL GROUP E STANDINGS:
1. Nagoya Grampus (GP: 6; GD: +6; PTS: 12)
2. Newcastle United Jets (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
3. Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i (GP: 6; GD: -6; PTS: 6)
4. Beijing Guoan (GP: 6; GD: -1; PTS: 5)
Nagoya Grampus and Newcastle United Jets advanced to the knockout stage.
Group F:
At Osaka, Japan:
Dejan Damjanovic (74') and Kim Han-Yoon (90'+1) provided the scoring that enabled FC Seoul to come from behind to post a 2-1 road win over Gamba Osaka and join the Japanese club in the knockout stage.
At Palembang, Indonesia:
Even though they had an otherwise abysmal showing in this year's Asian Champions League, Sriwijaya FC did not quit and they knocked off visiting Shandong Luneng 4-2 for their first win of the tounament and ruining any hope the Chinese club had of advancing to the round of 16. Zah Rahan Krangar doubled (73', 80') for the hosts, who erased a two-goal deficit.
FINAL GROUP F STANDINGS:
1. Gamba Osaka (GP: 6; GD: +13; PTS: 15)
2. FC Seoul (GP: 6; GD: +3; PTS: 10)
3. Shandong Luneng (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 7)
4. Swijiyaya FC (GP: 6 ; GD: -17; PTS: 3)
Gamba Osaka and FC Seoul advanced to the knockout stage.
The round of 16 will consist of one-match sets (or one-legged ties).
The home clubs will be listed first.
West Asia, May 27:
Al-Hilal vs. Umm-Salal at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Persepolis FC vs. FC Bunyodkor at Tehran, Iran
Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Shabab at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Al-Ettifaq vs. Pakhtakor Tashkent at Dammam, Saudi Arabia
East Asia, June 24:
Nagoya Grampus vs. Suwon Bluewings at Nagoya, Japan
Gamba Osaka vs. Kawasaki Frontale at Suita, Japan
Kashima Antlers vs. FC Seoul at Kashima, Japan
Pohang Steelers vs. Newcastle United Jets at Pohang, South Korea
The winners of these matches would advance to the quarterfinal round.
Jadson's Goals Propels Shakhtar To UEFA Cup Title
At Istanbul, Turkey:
An overtime goal from Jadson (97') powered Shakhtar Donetsk to a 2-1 triumph over Werder Bremen to win the championship of the final edition of the UEFA Cup on Wednesday. The tournament will be renamed the Europa League next
season. Luiz Adriano also scored for Shakhtar (25'). Naldo put Werder on the scoreboard at 35 minutes. Pictured here are jubilant Shakhtar players with the prize.
Getty Images Photo.
An overtime goal from Jadson (97') powered Shakhtar Donetsk to a 2-1 triumph over Werder Bremen to win the championship of the final edition of the UEFA Cup on Wednesday. The tournament will be renamed the Europa League next
season. Luiz Adriano also scored for Shakhtar (25'). Naldo put Werder on the scoreboard at 35 minutes. Pictured here are jubilant Shakhtar players with the prize.Getty Images Photo.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
AFC Champions League, MatchDay #6: Final Week Of Group Stage Play Commences
Tuesday marked the beginning of the final week of AFC Champions League group stage play.
Group C:
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
In a battle of the two clubs who already advanced to the first knockout round, Al-Ittihad won Group C with a 7-0 home billyclubbing of Umm-Salal.
At Dubai, UAE:
In the final Champions League contest for both clubs, Al-Jazira were held to a 2-2 home draw by Esteghlal FC. Ali Ahmed and Redha Al Jaberi scored for the hosts, while the visitors got goals from Ali Alizadeh and Hadi Shakouri.
FINAL GROUP C STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ittihad (GP: 6; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. Umm-Salal (GP: 6; GD: -7; PTS: 8)
3. Al-Jazira (GP: 6; GD: -1; PTS: 5)
4. Esteghlal FC (GP: 6; GD: -2; PTS: 4)
Al-Ittihad and Um-Salal advanced to the knockout stage.
Group D:
At Estafan, Iran:
With goals from Hossein Papi (2'), Hadi Asghari (52'), Hamid Azizzadeh (81'), Sepahan FC throttled Group D winners Al-Ettifaq 3-0 at home. The win, though, was not good enough for the Iranian club to advance beyond the group stage.
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
FC Bunyodkor, despite being held to a 0-0 draw at home by Al-Shabab Al-Arabi, still advanced to the knockout stage.
FINAL GROUP D STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ettifaq (GP: 6; GD: +7; PTS: 12)
2. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 6; GD: -4; PTS: 8)
3. Sepahan FC (GP: 6; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
4. Al-Shabab Al-Arabi (GP: 6; GD: -5; PTS: 7)
Al-Ettifaq and FC Bunyodkor advanced to the knockout stage.
Group G:
At Suwon, South Korea:
Suwon Bluewings, with goals from Bae Ki-Jong (5'), Lee Sang-Ho (45'), and Seo Dong-Hyun (PK-90;), tripled visiting Singapore Armed Forces FC 3-1. The South Korean club locked up a knockout stage berth.
At Shanghai, China:
Kashima Antlers locked up Group G with a 1-1 road draw against Shanghai Shenhua, thanks to Marquinhos' equalizer at 33 minutes.
FINAL GROUP G STANDINGS:
1. Kashima Antlers (GP: 6; GD: +10; PTS: 13)
2. Suwon Bluewings (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 12)
3. Shanghai Shenhua (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
4. Singapore Armed Forces FC (GP: 6; GD: -15; PTS: 1)
Kashima Antlers and Suwon Bluewings advanced to the knockout stage.
Group H:
At Kawasaki, Japan:
In a matchup of the two Group H clubs who advanced to the knockout stage, Noh Byung-Joon (12') and Denilson (72') provided the goalpower that lifted Pohang Steelers to a 2-0 road win over Kawasaki Frontale to claim the Group H title for the South Korean club.
At Gosford, New South Wales, Australia:
Mao Biao scored the only goal of the match (64') as Tianjin Teda FC closed out Champions League play with a 1-0 road win over fellow eliminated club Central Coast Mariners.
FINAL GROUP H STANDINGS:
1. Pohang Steelers (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 12)
2. Kawasaki Frontale (GP: 6; GD: +3; PTS: 10)
3. Tianjin Teda FC (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
4. Central Coast Mariners (GP: 6; GD: -8; PTS: 2)
Pohang Steelers and Kawasaki Frontale advanced to the knockout stage.
Group stage play concludes Wednesday.
Group C:
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
In a battle of the two clubs who already advanced to the first knockout round, Al-Ittihad won Group C with a 7-0 home billyclubbing of Umm-Salal.
At Dubai, UAE:
In the final Champions League contest for both clubs, Al-Jazira were held to a 2-2 home draw by Esteghlal FC. Ali Ahmed and Redha Al Jaberi scored for the hosts, while the visitors got goals from Ali Alizadeh and Hadi Shakouri.
FINAL GROUP C STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ittihad (GP: 6; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. Umm-Salal (GP: 6; GD: -7; PTS: 8)
3. Al-Jazira (GP: 6; GD: -1; PTS: 5)
4. Esteghlal FC (GP: 6; GD: -2; PTS: 4)
Al-Ittihad and Um-Salal advanced to the knockout stage.
Group D:
At Estafan, Iran:
With goals from Hossein Papi (2'), Hadi Asghari (52'), Hamid Azizzadeh (81'), Sepahan FC throttled Group D winners Al-Ettifaq 3-0 at home. The win, though, was not good enough for the Iranian club to advance beyond the group stage.
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
FC Bunyodkor, despite being held to a 0-0 draw at home by Al-Shabab Al-Arabi, still advanced to the knockout stage.
FINAL GROUP D STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ettifaq (GP: 6; GD: +7; PTS: 12)
2. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 6; GD: -4; PTS: 8)
3. Sepahan FC (GP: 6; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
4. Al-Shabab Al-Arabi (GP: 6; GD: -5; PTS: 7)
Al-Ettifaq and FC Bunyodkor advanced to the knockout stage.
Group G:
At Suwon, South Korea:
Suwon Bluewings, with goals from Bae Ki-Jong (5'), Lee Sang-Ho (45'), and Seo Dong-Hyun (PK-90;), tripled visiting Singapore Armed Forces FC 3-1. The South Korean club locked up a knockout stage berth.
At Shanghai, China:
Kashima Antlers locked up Group G with a 1-1 road draw against Shanghai Shenhua, thanks to Marquinhos' equalizer at 33 minutes.
FINAL GROUP G STANDINGS:
1. Kashima Antlers (GP: 6; GD: +10; PTS: 13)
2. Suwon Bluewings (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 12)
3. Shanghai Shenhua (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
4. Singapore Armed Forces FC (GP: 6; GD: -15; PTS: 1)
Kashima Antlers and Suwon Bluewings advanced to the knockout stage.
Group H:
At Kawasaki, Japan:
In a matchup of the two Group H clubs who advanced to the knockout stage, Noh Byung-Joon (12') and Denilson (72') provided the goalpower that lifted Pohang Steelers to a 2-0 road win over Kawasaki Frontale to claim the Group H title for the South Korean club.
At Gosford, New South Wales, Australia:
Mao Biao scored the only goal of the match (64') as Tianjin Teda FC closed out Champions League play with a 1-0 road win over fellow eliminated club Central Coast Mariners.
FINAL GROUP H STANDINGS:
1. Pohang Steelers (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 12)
2. Kawasaki Frontale (GP: 6; GD: +3; PTS: 10)
3. Tianjin Teda FC (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
4. Central Coast Mariners (GP: 6; GD: -8; PTS: 2)
Pohang Steelers and Kawasaki Frontale advanced to the knockout stage.
Group stage play concludes Wednesday.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Juventus Coach Canned
At Turin, Italy:
With their recent problems in Serie A play, Juventus decided now's the right time for a coaching (or managerial) change---with two games left in the league season.
With their recent problems in Serie A play, Juventus decided now's the right time for a coaching (or managerial) change---with two games left in the league season.
Heerenveen Capture KNVB Cup
At Rotterdam, Netherlands:
After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, 30 minutes of overtime in which each team tallied once, SC Heerenveen defeated FC Twente 5-4 in the penalty kick shootout to win the KNVB Cup, the big Dutch national club competition on Sunday. It was Heerenveen's first ever Dutch Cup championship.
Scoring:
SC Heerenveen's one regulation-time goal came from Goran Popov at 27 minutes. Eljero Elia equalized at 55 minutes for FC Twente. In overtime, Bonaventure Kalou put Heerenveen back in front at 112 minutes, only to see Twente's Youssouf Hersi eqaulize at 118 minutes.
Heerenveen make all five of their spot kicks in the shootout (Viktor Elm, Michael Dingsdad, Michel Breuer, Bonaventure Kalou, and Gerald Sibon each converted), while Twente made four of five.
With the triumph, Heerenveen qualified for the playoff round for entry into the 2009-10 Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup).
After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, 30 minutes of overtime in which each team tallied once, SC Heerenveen defeated FC Twente 5-4 in the penalty kick shootout to win the KNVB Cup, the big Dutch national club competition on Sunday. It was Heerenveen's first ever Dutch Cup championship.
Scoring:
SC Heerenveen's one regulation-time goal came from Goran Popov at 27 minutes. Eljero Elia equalized at 55 minutes for FC Twente. In overtime, Bonaventure Kalou put Heerenveen back in front at 112 minutes, only to see Twente's Youssouf Hersi eqaulize at 118 minutes.
Heerenveen make all five of their spot kicks in the shootout (Viktor Elm, Michael Dingsdad, Michel Breuer, Bonaventure Kalou, and Gerald Sibon each converted), while Twente made four of five.
With the triumph, Heerenveen qualified for the playoff round for entry into the 2009-10 Europa League (formerly UEFA Cup).
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Late Eddie Lewis Goal Allow Galaxy To Salvage Home Draw
At Carson, California:
Eddie Lewis' late equalizer (90') enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to salvage a 1-1 home draw with the Columbus Crew. The Galaxy's unbeaten streak--their longest in two years--now stands at seven games. Guillermo Barros Schelotto scored for the Crew at 70 minutes.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERNECE:
1. Chicago (GP: 9; GD: +5; PTS: 15)
2. DC United (GP: 10; GD: +2; PTS: 15)
3. Kansas City (GP: 10; GD: +2; PTS: 14)
4. Toronto FC (GP: 10; GD: -2; PTS: 13)
5. New England (GP: 8; GD: -6; PTS: 10)
6. New York (GP: 10; GD: -2; PTS: 9)
6. Columbus (GP: 9; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 10; GD: +9; PTS: 23)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 9; GD: +6; PTS: 15)
3. Colorado (GP: 8; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
4. Houston (GP: 8; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 9; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 10)
7. San Jose (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 9; GD: -8; PTS:5)
Eddie Lewis' late equalizer (90') enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to salvage a 1-1 home draw with the Columbus Crew. The Galaxy's unbeaten streak--their longest in two years--now stands at seven games. Guillermo Barros Schelotto scored for the Crew at 70 minutes.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERNECE:
1. Chicago (GP: 9; GD: +5; PTS: 15)
2. DC United (GP: 10; GD: +2; PTS: 15)
3. Kansas City (GP: 10; GD: +2; PTS: 14)
4. Toronto FC (GP: 10; GD: -2; PTS: 13)
5. New England (GP: 8; GD: -6; PTS: 10)
6. New York (GP: 10; GD: -2; PTS: 9)
6. Columbus (GP: 9; GD: -3; PTS: 9)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 10; GD: +9; PTS: 23)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 9; GD: +6; PTS: 15)
3. Colorado (GP: 8; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
4. Houston (GP: 8; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 9; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 10)
7. San Jose (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 9; GD: -8; PTS:5)
Gulls Rejoin Football League
At London:
Goals from Chris Hargreaves (35') and Tim Sills (75') powered Torquay United to a 2-0 win over Cambridge United to win the Blue Square Premier (Conference National) promotion final on Sunday. After a two year absence, the Gulls are rejoining England's Football League in will play in League Two along with BSP league winners Burton Albion (who will be playing as a League club for the first time in their 59-year history).
Goals from Chris Hargreaves (35') and Tim Sills (75') powered Torquay United to a 2-0 win over Cambridge United to win the Blue Square Premier (Conference National) promotion final on Sunday. After a two year absence, the Gulls are rejoining England's Football League in will play in League Two along with BSP league winners Burton Albion (who will be playing as a League club for the first time in their 59-year history).
Baggies Relegated
At West Bromwich, England:
Goals from Steven Gerrard (28') and Dirk Kuyt (63') paced Liverpool to a 2-0 road win over West Bromwich Albion in Sunday English Premier League play. With the loss, the Baggies were relegated into the Football League Championship.
Goals from Steven Gerrard (28') and Dirk Kuyt (63') paced Liverpool to a 2-0 road win over West Bromwich Albion in Sunday English Premier League play. With the loss, the Baggies were relegated into the Football League Championship.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Josh Wolfe Double Powers Wizards; Fire End Draw String With Road Win; Four Draws
Six contests populated Saturday's Major League soccer schedule:
At Sandy, Utah:
Josh Wolfe's double (21', 67') proved to be all the scoring as the visiting Kansas City Wizards blanked Real Salt Lake 2-0.
At Toronto:
Thanks to goals from Chris Rolfe (59') and Brian McBride (81'), the Chicago Fire ended a string of five straight deadlocks with a 2-0 road win over Toronto FC.
At Foxborough, Massachusetts:
The Colorado Rapids, with Conor Casey scoring at 3 minutes, and the homestanding New England Revolution, whose goal came courtesy of Steve Ralston's successful penalty kick at 18 minutes, battled to a 1-1 stalemate.
At Frisco, Texas:
Guerreiro Andre Rocha's goal (45'+3) enabled FC Dallas to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Seattle Sounders FC, whose goal came courtesy of Steve Zakuani at 18 minutes.
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
John Wolyniec's late equalizer (88') enabled the New York Red Bulls to gain a 1-1 home deadlock with the Houston Dynamo, whose one goal came in the 78th minute from Chris Wondolowski.
At Carson, California:
Second-half goals from Luciano Emilio (77') and Santino Quaranta (85') enabled DC United to erase a two-goal deficit and gain a 2-2 road stalemate with Chivas USA. Maykel Galindo (25') and Eduardo Lillingston (43') provided the scoring for the Goats.
At Sandy, Utah:
Josh Wolfe's double (21', 67') proved to be all the scoring as the visiting Kansas City Wizards blanked Real Salt Lake 2-0.
At Toronto:
Thanks to goals from Chris Rolfe (59') and Brian McBride (81'), the Chicago Fire ended a string of five straight deadlocks with a 2-0 road win over Toronto FC.
At Foxborough, Massachusetts:
The Colorado Rapids, with Conor Casey scoring at 3 minutes, and the homestanding New England Revolution, whose goal came courtesy of Steve Ralston's successful penalty kick at 18 minutes, battled to a 1-1 stalemate.
At Frisco, Texas:
Guerreiro Andre Rocha's goal (45'+3) enabled FC Dallas to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Seattle Sounders FC, whose goal came courtesy of Steve Zakuani at 18 minutes.
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
John Wolyniec's late equalizer (88') enabled the New York Red Bulls to gain a 1-1 home deadlock with the Houston Dynamo, whose one goal came in the 78th minute from Chris Wondolowski.
At Carson, California:
Second-half goals from Luciano Emilio (77') and Santino Quaranta (85') enabled DC United to erase a two-goal deficit and gain a 2-2 road stalemate with Chivas USA. Maykel Galindo (25') and Eduardo Lillingston (43') provided the scoring for the Goats.
Nerozzurri Take Title As Rossoneri Falls
At Udine, Italy:
Thanks to goals from Gaetano D'Agostino (PK-31') and Christian Zapata (49'), Udinese knoced off AC Milan 2-1 at home, enabling Inter Milan to claim their fourth straight Serie A championshiop.
Thanks to goals from Gaetano D'Agostino (PK-31') and Christian Zapata (49'), Udinese knoced off AC Milan 2-1 at home, enabling Inter Milan to claim their fourth straight Serie A championshiop.
Barca Back On Top For First Time Since '06, Thanks To Yellow Submarine
At Villarreal, Spain:
Joan Capdevila's game winner at 90 minutes lifted Villarreal to a 3-2 home win over Real Madrid, ending the Galacticos' two-year reign as La Liga champions, forcing them to hand to title over to archrivals FC Barcelona.
Joan Capdevila's game winner at 90 minutes lifted Villarreal to a 3-2 home win over Real Madrid, ending the Galacticos' two-year reign as La Liga champions, forcing them to hand to title over to archrivals FC Barcelona.
TFC Still Unbeaten In Canadian Championship
At Toronto:
Chad Barrett scored the only goal of the match (35') on Wednesday as Toronto FC continued their perfect start to the 2009 Nutrilite Canadian Championship with a 1-0 home win over the Montreal Impact.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Montreal Impact (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Chad Barrett scored the only goal of the match (35') on Wednesday as Toronto FC continued their perfect start to the 2009 Nutrilite Canadian Championship with a 1-0 home win over the Montreal Impact.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Montreal Impact (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Chalk Up Another Premiership Crown For Sir Alex And Company
At Manchester, England:
A 0-0 home draw with Arsenal locked up Manchester United's third straight English Premier League title Saturday.
A beaming manager Sir Alex Ferguson is seen here hold the Premiership's championship trophy.
Getty Images Photo taken by Alex Livesey
Friday, May 15, 2009
Iron Win Long Shootout To Advance To Final
Friday marked the conclusion of the semifinal phase of England's League One promotion playoffs.
At Milton Keynes:
With the opening match deadlocked at 1-1, with no away goals rule, and after a scoreless 90 minutes in game two, and two scoreless overtime periods, Scunthorpe United, with successful penalty kicks from Grant McCann, Paul Hayes, Andy Crosby, Liam Trotter, Jonathan Forte, Sam Togwell, and Ian Morris, won the penalty kick shootout against hosts MK Downs 7-6, in nine rounds. The Dons' Tore Andre Flo's penalty kick, which would have sent the shootout to a tenth round, hit the crossbar. The Iron will face Millwall in the promotion playoff final on May 24 at London's Wembley Stadium, with the winner gaining promotion to the League Championship.
At Milton Keynes:
With the opening match deadlocked at 1-1, with no away goals rule, and after a scoreless 90 minutes in game two, and two scoreless overtime periods, Scunthorpe United, with successful penalty kicks from Grant McCann, Paul Hayes, Andy Crosby, Liam Trotter, Jonathan Forte, Sam Togwell, and Ian Morris, won the penalty kick shootout against hosts MK Downs 7-6, in nine rounds. The Dons' Tore Andre Flo's penalty kick, which would have sent the shootout to a tenth round, hit the crossbar. The Iron will face Millwall in the promotion playoff final on May 24 at London's Wembley Stadium, with the winner gaining promotion to the League Championship.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Boca And Defensor Sporting Draw In Series Opener; Cruzeiro And Estudiantes Advance To Elite Eight
Two two-match sets from the Copa Libertadores first knockout round concluded Thursday.
At Belo Horizonte, Brazil:
Kleber scored the only goal of the match (74') as Gremio took game two of their two-game set 1-0 at home over Universidad de Chile and won the series easily on aggregate 3-1, 6-0 on points.
At Asuncion, Paraguay:
Visiting Estudiantes held hosts Club Libertad to a 0-0 draw in game two and won the two-match set 3-0 on aggregate, 4-1 on points.
Meanwhile,
At Montevideo, Uruguay:
Pablo Gaglianone (45') and Rodrigo Mora (85') each scored once for Defensor Sporting as they salvaged a 2-2 home draw with Boca Juniors in the opening match of their two-game round-of-16 set. Martin Palermo (5') and Rodrigo Palocio (57') each scored once for the Argentinian giants.
At Belo Horizonte, Brazil:
Kleber scored the only goal of the match (74') as Gremio took game two of their two-game set 1-0 at home over Universidad de Chile and won the series easily on aggregate 3-1, 6-0 on points.
At Asuncion, Paraguay:
Visiting Estudiantes held hosts Club Libertad to a 0-0 draw in game two and won the two-match set 3-0 on aggregate, 4-1 on points.
Meanwhile,
At Montevideo, Uruguay:
Pablo Gaglianone (45') and Rodrigo Mora (85') each scored once for Defensor Sporting as they salvaged a 2-2 home draw with Boca Juniors in the opening match of their two-game round-of-16 set. Martin Palermo (5') and Rodrigo Palocio (57') each scored once for the Argentinian giants.
Millwall Advance To League One Promotion Final
At Leeds, England:
Nadjim Abdou's goal at 74 minutes enabled Millwall to gain a 1-1 road draw with Leeds United in game two of their League One Promotion Playoff semifinal series, enabling the Lions, who won the two-match set 2-1 on aggregate, to advance to the May 24 promotion final at Wembley Stadium in London to face the winner of the Milton Keynes Dons-Scunthorpe United series for promotion to the League Championship. That two-match set is deadlocked at 1-1 on aggregate. In these two-legged playoffs, there is no away goals rule. The second contest will take place in Milton Keynes on Friday.
Nadjim Abdou's goal at 74 minutes enabled Millwall to gain a 1-1 road draw with Leeds United in game two of their League One Promotion Playoff semifinal series, enabling the Lions, who won the two-match set 2-1 on aggregate, to advance to the May 24 promotion final at Wembley Stadium in London to face the winner of the Milton Keynes Dons-Scunthorpe United series for promotion to the League Championship. That two-match set is deadlocked at 1-1 on aggregate. In these two-legged playoffs, there is no away goals rule. The second contest will take place in Milton Keynes on Friday.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Elite 8 Berth For Gremio
At Porto Alegre, Brazil:
Goals from Jonas (18') and German Herrera (75') paced Gremio to a 2-0 home win over Universidad San Martin in game two of their Round-of-16 Copa Libertadores series and enabling the Brazilian club to win the two-match set 5-1 on aggregate.
Goals from Jonas (18') and German Herrera (75') paced Gremio to a 2-0 home win over Universidad San Martin in game two of their Round-of-16 Copa Libertadores series and enabling the Brazilian club to win the two-match set 5-1 on aggregate.
Lazio Top Sampdoria In Shootout To Win Coppa Italia
At Rome:
After a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes, Lazio won a long penalty-kick shootout 6-5 to claim the Coppa Italia crown. The Young Eagles got the decisive successful spot kick from Ousmane Dabo. Mauro Zarate had scored Lazio's lone regulation time goal at 4 minutes, while Gianpaolo Pazzini scored at 31 minutes for Sampdoria.
After a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes, Lazio won a long penalty-kick shootout 6-5 to claim the Coppa Italia crown. The Young Eagles got the decisive successful spot kick from Ousmane Dabo. Mauro Zarate had scored Lazio's lone regulation time goal at 4 minutes, while Gianpaolo Pazzini scored at 31 minutes for Sampdoria.
Barca Crown Athletic Bilbao To Cop King's Cup
At Valencia, Spain:
Goals from Yaya Toure (31'), Lionel Messi (54'), Bojan Krkic (57'), and Xavi Hernandez (64') powered FC Barcelona to a 4-1 fistbeating of Athletic Bilbao to capture the Copa del Rey title for the 25th time.
Here are a bunch of happy Barca players celebrating.
Getty Images Photo
Goals from Yaya Toure (31'), Lionel Messi (54'), Bojan Krkic (57'), and Xavi Hernandez (64') powered FC Barcelona to a 4-1 fistbeating of Athletic Bilbao to capture the Copa del Rey title for the 25th time.
Here are a bunch of happy Barca players celebrating.
Getty Images Photo
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Belize Dumped
Apparently, because of continued stadium problems, Belize has been kicked out of the CONCACAF Champions League.
Honduras will get a third club in the tournament.
Honduras will get a third club in the tournament.
Palmeiras and Caracas FC Advance To Quarterfinals
Two teams advanced to the quarterfinal round of the Copa Libertadores on Tuesday.
At Recife, Brazil:
After Wilson scored at 82 minutes to enable Sport Recife to take game two of their two-match set at home 1-0, thus deadlocking the series 1-1 on aggregate , visiting Palmeiras won the penalty kick shootout 3-1 (with Marcao, Danilo, and Pablo Armero each converting, and with no overtime periods ) to advance to the quarterfinals.
At Caracas, Venezuela:
Goals courtesy of Dario Damian Figueroa (PK-22), Rodrigo Prieto (42'), Emilio Renteria (51'), and Jose Manuel Rey (74'), Caracas FC smashed visiting Club Deportivo Cuenca 4-0 in game two of their two-match set to win the series 5-2 on aggregate.
At Recife, Brazil:
After Wilson scored at 82 minutes to enable Sport Recife to take game two of their two-match set at home 1-0, thus deadlocking the series 1-1 on aggregate , visiting Palmeiras won the penalty kick shootout 3-1 (with Marcao, Danilo, and Pablo Armero each converting, and with no overtime periods ) to advance to the quarterfinals.
At Caracas, Venezuela:
Goals courtesy of Dario Damian Figueroa (PK-22), Rodrigo Prieto (42'), Emilio Renteria (51'), and Jose Manuel Rey (74'), Caracas FC smashed visiting Club Deportivo Cuenca 4-0 in game two of their two-match set to win the series 5-2 on aggregate.
Iron Colts Capture CONCACAF Champions League Crown
At Cancun, Mexico:
In a match postponed from April 29 due to concerns over the outbreak of Swine Flu, Atlante played visiting Cruz Azul to a 0-0 draw in game two of the final of the CONCACAF Champions League, enabling the Iron Colts to win the title 2-0 on aggregate.
Atla
nte will play in the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be played this December in the United Arab Emirates.
Pictured here is the Iron Colts' Luis Gabriel Rey in action.
Mexsport Photo
In a match postponed from April 29 due to concerns over the outbreak of Swine Flu, Atlante played visiting Cruz Azul to a 0-0 draw in game two of the final of the CONCACAF Champions League, enabling the Iron Colts to win the title 2-0 on aggregate.
Atla
nte will play in the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be played this December in the United Arab Emirates.Pictured here is the Iron Colts' Luis Gabriel Rey in action.
Mexsport Photo
Burnley To Get Shot At Sheffield United
The semifinal round of England's League Championship promotion playoffs concluded Tuesday.
At Reading:
Goals from Martin Paterson (51') and Steven Thompson (58') lifted Burnley to a 2-0 road win in game two of their two match series with Reading and a 3-0 series win on aggregate. Next for the Clarets will be the promotion final on May 25 at Wembley Stadium in London against Sheffield United with the winner earning promotion to the Premier League. The Clarets have not played in the top flight since 1975. The Blades were in the Premiership for one season, 2006-07, their last top-flight season before that ended in 1992.
At Reading:
Goals from Martin Paterson (51') and Steven Thompson (58') lifted Burnley to a 2-0 road win in game two of their two match series with Reading and a 3-0 series win on aggregate. Next for the Clarets will be the promotion final on May 25 at Wembley Stadium in London against Sheffield United with the winner earning promotion to the Premier League. The Clarets have not played in the top flight since 1975. The Blades were in the Premiership for one season, 2006-07, their last top-flight season before that ended in 1992.
Monday, May 11, 2009
From The WTF Department
Philadelphia's Major League Soccer expansion club unveiled its name and colors on Monday.
They begin play next year.
I personally would have preferred a name like Quaker City FC.
Here's the club's logo:
They begin play next year.
I personally would have preferred a name like Quaker City FC.
Here's the club's logo:
Ligue 2 Club Shock Rennes For Coupe de France Crown
At Paris:
Eduardo's double (72', 82') enabled Ligue 2 club En Avant Guingamp to come from behind and knock off top-flighters Stade Rennes FC 2-1 to win their first Coupe de France championship on Saturday.
Guingamp will play in a playoff round for a berth in next season's Europa League (UEFA Cup).
Eduardo's double (72', 82') enabled Ligue 2 club En Avant Guingamp to come from behind and knock off top-flighters Stade Rennes FC 2-1 to win their first Coupe de France championship on Saturday.
Guingamp will play in a playoff round for a berth in next season's Europa League (UEFA Cup).
Greg Halford Uses His Noggin To Send Blades To Promotion Final
At Sheffield:
Greg Halford's header (59') proved to be the decisive goal as Sheffield United defeated visiting Preston North End 1-0 on Monday in the second game to the clubs' two-match semifinal series in England's League Championship promotion playoffs. The Blades will play in the May 25 final at London's Wembley Stadium against the Reading-Burney winner for the right to be promoted to the Premiership.
Greg Halford's header (59') proved to be the decisive goal as Sheffield United defeated visiting Preston North End 1-0 on Monday in the second game to the clubs' two-match semifinal series in England's League Championship promotion playoffs. The Blades will play in the May 25 final at London's Wembley Stadium against the Reading-Burney winner for the right to be promoted to the Premiership.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Galaxy And Sounders Draw On Mother's Day
At Seattle:
In Sunday's only Major League Soccer contest, Alan Gordan's goal at 35 minutes enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to stretched their unbeaten streak to six games as they gained a 1-1 road draw with Seattle Sounders FC, whose one goal came from Sebastien Le Toux at 22 minutes.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. DC United (GP: 9; GD: +2; PTS: 14)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 13)
3. Chicago (GP: 8; GD: +3; PTS: 12)
4. Kansas City (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 11)
5. New England (GP: 7; GD: -6; PTS: 9)
6. New York (GP: 9; GD: -2; PTS: 8)
7. Columbus (GP:8; GD: -3; PTS: 8)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 9; GD: +9; PTS: 22)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 8; GD: +6; PTS: 14)
3. Houston (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
4. Colorado (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 8; PTS: +3; PTS: 10)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 8; GD: 0; PTS: 9)
7. San Jose (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 4)
In Sunday's only Major League Soccer contest, Alan Gordan's goal at 35 minutes enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to stretched their unbeaten streak to six games as they gained a 1-1 road draw with Seattle Sounders FC, whose one goal came from Sebastien Le Toux at 22 minutes.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. DC United (GP: 9; GD: +2; PTS: 14)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 13)
3. Chicago (GP: 8; GD: +3; PTS: 12)
4. Kansas City (GP: 9; GD: 0; PTS: 11)
5. New England (GP: 7; GD: -6; PTS: 9)
6. New York (GP: 9; GD: -2; PTS: 8)
7. Columbus (GP:8; GD: -3; PTS: 8)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 9; GD: +9; PTS: 22)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 8; GD: +6; PTS: 14)
3. Houston (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
4. Colorado (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
5. Real Salt Lake (GP: 8; PTS: +3; PTS: 10)
6. Los Angeles (GP: 8; GD: 0; PTS: 9)
7. San Jose (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 8; GD: -8; PTS: 4)
League Two Promotion Playoffs: Shrewsbury Town and Gillingham Advance To Final
The first round of England's League Two promotion playoffs concluded Sunday.
At Bury:
Kevin McIntyre scored at 88 minutes to give Shrewsbury Town a 1-0 road win in game two of their two-match playoff semifinal series. Then, after a scoreless 30 minutes of overtime, the visiting Shews won the penalty-kick shootout (with Ben Davies, Moses Ashikodi, Kevin McIntyre, and David Worrall all converting) 4-3 to advance to the promotion playoff final on May 23 at Wembley Stadium in London.
At Gillingham:
Simeon Jackson's double (13', PK-58') enabled Gillingham to hold off Rochdale 2-1 on the road in game two of their promotion playoff semifinal series and win the two-match set 2-1 on aggregate. The Gills will take on Shrewsbury Town in the final on May 23 at Wembley Stadium in London for promotion to League One. This marks another year without promotion for The Dale.
At Bury:
Kevin McIntyre scored at 88 minutes to give Shrewsbury Town a 1-0 road win in game two of their two-match playoff semifinal series. Then, after a scoreless 30 minutes of overtime, the visiting Shews won the penalty-kick shootout (with Ben Davies, Moses Ashikodi, Kevin McIntyre, and David Worrall all converting) 4-3 to advance to the promotion playoff final on May 23 at Wembley Stadium in London.
At Gillingham:
Simeon Jackson's double (13', PK-58') enabled Gillingham to hold off Rochdale 2-1 on the road in game two of their promotion playoff semifinal series and win the two-match set 2-1 on aggregate. The Gills will take on Shrewsbury Town in the final on May 23 at Wembley Stadium in London for promotion to League One. This marks another year without promotion for The Dale.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
A Win For The Crew At Last
Five games were contested in Major League Soccer on Saturday:
At Columbus, Ohio:
Goals from Emmanuel Ekpo (39'), Guillermo Barros Schelotto (55'), and Eddie Gaven (78') lifted the Columbus Crew to their first win of the season, 3-2 at home over the Kansas City Wizards.
At Washington:
With goals courtesy of Ange N'Silu (9'), Chris Pontius (86'), and Jaime Moreno (90'), DC United wound up salvaging a 3-3 home deadlock with Toronto FC, whose goals came from Dwayne De Rosario (52', 87') and Adrian Serioux (63').
At Bridgeview, Illinois:
Shalrie Joseph's equalizer (49') enabled the New England Revolution to gain a 1-1 road stalemate with the Chicago Fire, whose goal came courtesy of Wilman Conde at 36 minutes.
At Houston:
Kei Kamara's goal at 57 minutes was all the scoring as the Houston Dynamo blanked visiting FC Dallas 1-0.
At Carson, California:
Thanks to Paulo Nagamura's goal at 54 minutes and Zach Thornton's goalkeeping, Chivas USA blanked visiting Real Salt Lake 1-0.
At Columbus, Ohio:
Goals from Emmanuel Ekpo (39'), Guillermo Barros Schelotto (55'), and Eddie Gaven (78') lifted the Columbus Crew to their first win of the season, 3-2 at home over the Kansas City Wizards.
At Washington:
With goals courtesy of Ange N'Silu (9'), Chris Pontius (86'), and Jaime Moreno (90'), DC United wound up salvaging a 3-3 home deadlock with Toronto FC, whose goals came from Dwayne De Rosario (52', 87') and Adrian Serioux (63').
At Bridgeview, Illinois:
Shalrie Joseph's equalizer (49') enabled the New England Revolution to gain a 1-1 road stalemate with the Chicago Fire, whose goal came courtesy of Wilman Conde at 36 minutes.
At Houston:
Kei Kamara's goal at 57 minutes was all the scoring as the Houston Dynamo blanked visiting FC Dallas 1-0.
At Carson, California:
Thanks to Paulo Nagamura's goal at 54 minutes and Zach Thornton's goalkeeping, Chivas USA blanked visiting Real Salt Lake 1-0.
Late Goal Lifts Burnley In Series Opener With Royals
At Burnley:
In the opening match of a playoff promotion semifinal series (from England's Football League Championship to the Premiership), Graham Alexander's successful penalty kick (84') lifted Burnley to a 1-0 home win over Reading.
Lions Top Leeds In Playoff Series Opener
At London:
Neil Harris scored the only goal of the match (71') as Millwall defeated Leeds United 1-0 at home in the opening match of a two-game semifinal series in the League One promotion playoffs for the right to play next season in the League Championship alongside Leicester City and Peterborough United.
Neil Harris scored the only goal of the match (71') as Millwall defeated Leeds United 1-0 at home in the opening match of a two-game semifinal series in the League One promotion playoffs for the right to play next season in the League Championship alongside Leicester City and Peterborough United.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Make It The Round Of 14: Mexican Clubs Quit Copa
San Luis and Chivas of Guadalajara, the two Mexican clubs who had advanced to the knockout stage of the Copa Libertadores, have pulled out of the tournament, resulting from fears over Swine Flu.
Their respective opponents, Nacional (Uruguay) and Sao Paolo, have automatically advanced to the quarterfinal round.
Their respective opponents, Nacional (Uruguay) and Sao Paolo, have automatically advanced to the quarterfinal round.
Red Bulls Run Roughshod Over Quakes
At East Rutherford, New Jersey:
In Friday's lone Major League Soccer contest, Jorge Rojas scored twice (7', 13') and Juan Pablo Angel (22') and Macoumba Kandji (40') each tallied once---all in the first half---as the New York Red Bulls smothered the visiting San Jose Earthquakes 4-1.
In Friday's lone Major League Soccer contest, Jorge Rojas scored twice (7', 13') and Juan Pablo Angel (22') and Macoumba Kandji (40') each tallied once---all in the first half---as the New York Red Bulls smothered the visiting San Jose Earthquakes 4-1.
MK Dons and The Iron Draw In Promotion Playoff Opener
At Scunthorpe:
Aaron Wilbraham's equalizer (27') enabled Milton Keynes Dons to gain a 1-1 road deadlock with Scunthorpe United in game one Friday of their two-match promotion semifinal playoff series as the two clubs fight for promotion from League One to the League Championship in England.
The winner of this two-match set will take on the winner of the Millwall-Leeds United series in the promotion playoff final at Wembley Stadium in London with the winner there joining Leicester City and Peterborough United in moving up to the League Championship next season.
Northampton Town, Crewe Alexandra, Cheltenham Town, and Hereford United all were relegated to League Two.
Aaron Wilbraham's equalizer (27') enabled Milton Keynes Dons to gain a 1-1 road deadlock with Scunthorpe United in game one Friday of their two-match promotion semifinal playoff series as the two clubs fight for promotion from League One to the League Championship in England.
The winner of this two-match set will take on the winner of the Millwall-Leeds United series in the promotion playoff final at Wembley Stadium in London with the winner there joining Leicester City and Peterborough United in moving up to the League Championship next season.
Northampton Town, Crewe Alexandra, Cheltenham Town, and Hereford United all were relegated to League Two.
Blades Gain Road Draw In Promotion Playoff Semifinal Opener
The playoffs for promotion from the English Football League Championship to the Premiership began Friday:
At Preston:
Brian Howard's goal at 46 minutes enabled Sheffield United to gain a 1-1 road draw with Preston North End in game one of the two clubs' two-match semifinal playoff series. Sean St. Ledger socred for the Northenders at 21 minutes.
The winner of this two-match set would face the winner of the Redding-Burnley series for the right to play in the promotion final later this month at Wembley Stadium in London.
Wolverhampton and Birmingham City have already locked up automatic promotions to the English Premier League.
At the other end of the scale, Norwich City, Southampton, and Charlton Athletic were relegated to League One.
At Preston:
Brian Howard's goal at 46 minutes enabled Sheffield United to gain a 1-1 road draw with Preston North End in game one of the two clubs' two-match semifinal playoff series. Sean St. Ledger socred for the Northenders at 21 minutes.
The winner of this two-match set would face the winner of the Redding-Burnley series for the right to play in the promotion final later this month at Wembley Stadium in London.
Wolverhampton and Birmingham City have already locked up automatic promotions to the English Premier League.
At the other end of the scale, Norwich City, Southampton, and Charlton Athletic were relegated to League One.
Australia's Soccer Federation Take Control Of Another A-League Club
This development has also happened recently with the Brisbane (formerly Queensland) Roar.
Adelaide United, last year's Asian Champions League finalists, handing over ownership of the club to the national body on Friday because of financial problems.
The FFA agreed to take over the running of Adelaide after the owner Nick Bianco announced in February he was withdrawing his investment due to external business reasons.
FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said the governing body had agreed to the bailout to ensure the survival of Adelaide but eventually hoped to find a new owner.
"We will ensure the club continues to have a strong presence in the competition now and into the future," Buckley said in a statement on Friday.
"We are confident that a suitable new owner for the club will be found, but we are also prepared to wait for the right new owner or owners."
Adelaide joined the Queensland-based Brisbane Roar as the second of the eight foundation A-League teams to hand over their running to the FFA in the past month.
You must keep in mind that Soccer in Australia has been historically in a tough fight against cricket, the two rugby codes, and Australian Rules Football.Thursday, May 07, 2009
TFC Wins Canadian Championship Opener
The Nutrilite Canadian Championship commenced on Wednesday.
At Toronto:
Kevin Harmse scored the game's only goal (3') as Toronto FC (MLS) defeated the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps (USL-1) 1-0 in the opening match of the Canadian Championship tournament.
The winner of this tournament (which also includes the USL-1's Montreal Impact) would represent Canada in the preliminary round of the 2009-10 CONCACAF Champions League.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Montreal Impact (GP: 0; GD: 0; PTS: 0)
3. Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
At Toronto:
Kevin Harmse scored the game's only goal (3') as Toronto FC (MLS) defeated the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps (USL-1) 1-0 in the opening match of the Canadian Championship tournament.
The winner of this tournament (which also includes the USL-1's Montreal Impact) would represent Canada in the preliminary round of the 2009-10 CONCACAF Champions League.
STANDINGS:
1. Toronto FC (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Montreal Impact (GP: 0; GD: 0; PTS: 0)
3. Vancouver Whitecaps (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Playoffs For Promotion To League One Commence
Thursday marked the beginning of the playoffs from promotion from League Two to League One in England's Football League.
At Rochdale:
Gillingham held hosts Rochdale to a 0-0 deadlock in the opening match of a two-legged playoff semifinal for the right to go to the promotion playoff final.
At Shrewsbury:
Neil Ashton may have put his team's chances of promotion to League One in jeopardy after his own goal at 81 minutes lifted Bury to a 1-0 road win over Shrewsbury Town in the semifinal series opener.
The top three clubs in League Two this season---Brentford, Exeter City, and Wycombe Wanderers---won automatic promotion to League One.
The bottom two clubs, Luton Town and Chester City, were relegated from the Football League down to the Conference (Blue Square Premier).
At Rochdale:
Gillingham held hosts Rochdale to a 0-0 deadlock in the opening match of a two-legged playoff semifinal for the right to go to the promotion playoff final.
At Shrewsbury:
Neil Ashton may have put his team's chances of promotion to League One in jeopardy after his own goal at 81 minutes lifted Bury to a 1-0 road win over Shrewsbury Town in the semifinal series opener.
The top three clubs in League Two this season---Brentford, Exeter City, and Wycombe Wanderers---won automatic promotion to League One.
The bottom two clubs, Luton Town and Chester City, were relegated from the Football League down to the Conference (Blue Square Premier).
Deportivo Cuenca, Estudiantes, Cruzeiro Take Series Openers
Three more Round-of-16 two-match series in the Copa Libertadores began Thursday.
At Cuenca, Ecuador:
Goals from Rodrigo Teixeira (58') and Holger Matamoros (69') enabled Deportivo Cuenca to come from behind and defeat visiting Caracas FC 2-1 in the opening match of their two-game series.
At La Plata, Argentina:
Mauro Boselli's double (63', 70') helped lift Estudiantes to a 3-0 home domination of Libertad in the series opener for both clubs.
At Santiago, Chile:
Thanks to goals from Soares (8') and Marquinhos Parana (51'), Cruzeiro took the opening match of their two-game set with a 2-1 road win over Universidad de Chile.
At Cuenca, Ecuador:
Goals from Rodrigo Teixeira (58') and Holger Matamoros (69') enabled Deportivo Cuenca to come from behind and defeat visiting Caracas FC 2-1 in the opening match of their two-game series.
At La Plata, Argentina:
Mauro Boselli's double (63', 70') helped lift Estudiantes to a 3-0 home domination of Libertad in the series opener for both clubs.
At Santiago, Chile:
Thanks to goals from Soares (8') and Marquinhos Parana (51'), Cruzeiro took the opening match of their two-game set with a 2-1 road win over Universidad de Chile.
Draw For CAF Champions League Group Stage
The draw for the CAF Champions League's group stage took place Thursday in Cairo Egypt. Here are the two groups:
Group A:
Al-Merreikh (Sudan; top seed)
Al-Hilal (Sudan; second seed)
Kano Pillars FC (Nigeria)
ZESCO United FC (Zambia)
Group B:
Etoile Sportive du Sahel (Tunisia; top seed)
TP Mazembe (DRC; second seed)
Monomotapa United (Zimbabwe)
Heartland FC (Nigeria)
Each team would two games (one home, one away) each against each of the other teams in its' group. The top two teams in each group would advance to the semifinal round.
Group stage play begins July 17-19.
Group A:
Al-Merreikh (Sudan; top seed)
Al-Hilal (Sudan; second seed)
Kano Pillars FC (Nigeria)
ZESCO United FC (Zambia)
Group B:
Etoile Sportive du Sahel (Tunisia; top seed)
TP Mazembe (DRC; second seed)
Monomotapa United (Zimbabwe)
Heartland FC (Nigeria)
Each team would two games (one home, one away) each against each of the other teams in its' group. The top two teams in each group would advance to the semifinal round.
Group stage play begins July 17-19.
Shakhtar And Werder Bremen Reach UEFA Cup Final
The semifinal round in the UEFA Cup concluded Thursday with the second games of the respective two-match sets.
At Shakhtar, Ukraine:
Goals from Jadson (17') and Ilsinho (89') powered Shakhtar Donetsk to a 2-1 home win over Dynamo Kiev in game two of their semifinal set, enabling them to win the two-game set 3-2 on aggregate and reach the UEFA Cup final.
At Hamburg, Germany:
Diego (29'), Claudio Pizarro (66'), and Frank Baumann (83') provided the goals that powered Werder Bremen to a 3-2 road win in game two against Hamburg and advance to the UEFA Cup final thanks to their scoring more goals on the road (3-2) than their Bundesliga rivals, with the score deadlocked at 3-3 on aggregate.
Werder Bremen and Shaktar Donetsk will play in the UEFA Cup final on May 20 at Istanbul, Turkey.
Next season, the tournament will be renamed the UEFA Europa League.
At Shakhtar, Ukraine:
Goals from Jadson (17') and Ilsinho (89') powered Shakhtar Donetsk to a 2-1 home win over Dynamo Kiev in game two of their semifinal set, enabling them to win the two-game set 3-2 on aggregate and reach the UEFA Cup final.
At Hamburg, Germany:
Diego (29'), Claudio Pizarro (66'), and Frank Baumann (83') provided the goals that powered Werder Bremen to a 3-2 road win in game two against Hamburg and advance to the UEFA Cup final thanks to their scoring more goals on the road (3-2) than their Bundesliga rivals, with the score deadlocked at 3-3 on aggregate.
Werder Bremen and Shaktar Donetsk will play in the UEFA Cup final on May 20 at Istanbul, Turkey.
Next season, the tournament will be renamed the UEFA Europa League.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Ajax Coach Calls It Quits
Mario van Basten stepped down Wednesday as coach of Ajax Amsterdam, thinking he wasn't good enough for the job.
Gremio Top San Martin On Road In Series Opener
At Lima, Peru:
Maximiliano Lopez doubled (46', 62') to lead Gremio to a 3-1 road win over San Martin in the opening match of a two-game set in the Round of 16. That was the only Wednesday match in the Copa Libertadores.
Maximiliano Lopez doubled (46', 62') to lead Gremio to a 3-1 road win over San Martin in the opening match of a two-game set in the Round of 16. That was the only Wednesday match in the Copa Libertadores.
DCU and Wizards Draw; Last-Minute Rally Gain Road Draw For Galaxy
Two games were played Wednesday in Major League Soccer.
At Kansas City, Kansas:
Josh Wolfe's goal at 52 minutes lifted the Kansas City Wizards to a 1-1 home draw with DC United, whose goal came at 27 minutes from Rodney Wallace.
At Sandy, Utah:
Two goals at the death---one each from Landon Donovan (PK-90'+1) and Mike Magee (90'+4) enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to gain a 2-2 road stalemate with Real Salt Lake, whose goalpower came from Robbie Findley (34') and Will Johnson (PK-91').
At Kansas City, Kansas:
Josh Wolfe's goal at 52 minutes lifted the Kansas City Wizards to a 1-1 home draw with DC United, whose goal came at 27 minutes from Rodney Wallace.
At Sandy, Utah:
Two goals at the death---one each from Landon Donovan (PK-90'+1) and Mike Magee (90'+4) enabled the Los Angeles Galaxy to gain a 2-2 road stalemate with Real Salt Lake, whose goalpower came from Robbie Findley (34') and Will Johnson (PK-91').
Dramatic Late Goal Put Barca In Final
At London:
Andres Iniesta's very late goal (90'+3, he's seen here celebrating) lifted Barcelona into the UEFA Champions League final as they leveled with Chelsea 1-1 in the match and 1-1 on aggregate for the two-match set, thanks to the away goals rule. Until that late goal, it looked like the Blues would get to play a rematch
of last year's final against Manchester United when Michael Essien scored at 9 minutes. The final will be played at Olympic Stadium in Rome on May 27.
Photo © Getty Images
Andres Iniesta's very late goal (90'+3, he's seen here celebrating) lifted Barcelona into the UEFA Champions League final as they leveled with Chelsea 1-1 in the match and 1-1 on aggregate for the two-match set, thanks to the away goals rule. Until that late goal, it looked like the Blues would get to play a rematch
of last year's final against Manchester United when Michael Essien scored at 9 minutes. The final will be played at Olympic Stadium in Rome on May 27.Photo © Getty Images
AFC Champions League: MatchDay # 5, Continued
Wednesday saw the continuation of group stage play in the Asian Champions League.
Group A:
At Qom, Iran:
Tarik El-Taib scored the game's lone goal (42') as Al-Hilal locked up a berth in the knockout stage with a 1-0 road win over Saba Battery FC.
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Pakhtakor Tashkent, already bound for the Round of 16, got tallies from Zaynitdin Tadjyev (38') and Alexandar Geynrikh (58') as they defeated visiting Al-Ahli 2-1.
GROUP A STANDINGS:
1. Pakhtakor Tashkent* (GP: 5; GD: +6; PTS: 13)
2. Al-Hilal* (GP: 5; GD: +4; PTS: 11)
3. Saba Battery FC# (GP: 5; GD: -4; PTS: 2)
4. Al-Ahli# (GP: 5; GD: -6; PTS: 1)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group B:
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Nasser Al-Shamrani's successful penalty kick (90'+3) was all the scoring as Al-Shabab locked up a knockout stage berth 1-0 at home over Al-Gharafa, eliminating the guests from contention and putting Iran's Persepolis in the Sweet Sixteen as well.
GROUP B STANDINGS:
1. Al-Shabab* (GP: 3; GD: +3; PTS: 7)
2. Persepolis FC* (GP: 3; GD: -2; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Gharafa# (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
NOTE: Sharjah FC (United Arab Emirates) withdrew from the tounament on May 4 and all results involving this club were declared null and void.
Group E:
At Nagoya, Japan:
Goals from Yoshizumi (14', 71'), Yuki Maki (22'), and Davi (58') lifted Nagoya Grampus to a 4-1 home fistbeating of Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i, locking up the Group E title in the process.
At Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia:
Late second-half goals from Sasho Petrovski (88') and Sean Rooney (90'+4) lifted Newcastle United Jets to a 2-1 comeback home win over Beijing Guoan, lifting the Australian club into second place in Group E and eliminating the Chinese club from knockout stage contention.
GROUP E STANDINGS:
1. Nagoya Grampus** (GP: 5; GD: +6; PTS: 11)
2. Newcastle United Jets (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 7)
3. Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i (GP: 5; GD: -5; PTS: 6)
4. Beijing Guoan# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
**Won Group E and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group F:
At Jinan, China:
Leandro's goal at 59 minutes provided all the scoring as Gamba Osaka laid claim to the Group F title with a 1-0 road win over Shandong Luneng.
GROUP F STANDINGS:
1. Gamba Osaka** (GP: 5; GD: +14; PTS: 15)
2. Shandong Luneng (GP: 5; GD: +3; PTS: 7)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
4. Srijwijaya FC# (GP: 5; GD: -19; PTS: 0)
**Won Group F and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group A:
At Qom, Iran:
Tarik El-Taib scored the game's lone goal (42') as Al-Hilal locked up a berth in the knockout stage with a 1-0 road win over Saba Battery FC.
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Pakhtakor Tashkent, already bound for the Round of 16, got tallies from Zaynitdin Tadjyev (38') and Alexandar Geynrikh (58') as they defeated visiting Al-Ahli 2-1.
GROUP A STANDINGS:
1. Pakhtakor Tashkent* (GP: 5; GD: +6; PTS: 13)
2. Al-Hilal* (GP: 5; GD: +4; PTS: 11)
3. Saba Battery FC# (GP: 5; GD: -4; PTS: 2)
4. Al-Ahli# (GP: 5; GD: -6; PTS: 1)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group B:
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Nasser Al-Shamrani's successful penalty kick (90'+3) was all the scoring as Al-Shabab locked up a knockout stage berth 1-0 at home over Al-Gharafa, eliminating the guests from contention and putting Iran's Persepolis in the Sweet Sixteen as well.
GROUP B STANDINGS:
1. Al-Shabab* (GP: 3; GD: +3; PTS: 7)
2. Persepolis FC* (GP: 3; GD: -2; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Gharafa# (GP: 4; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
NOTE: Sharjah FC (United Arab Emirates) withdrew from the tounament on May 4 and all results involving this club were declared null and void.
Group E:
At Nagoya, Japan:
Goals from Yoshizumi (14', 71'), Yuki Maki (22'), and Davi (58') lifted Nagoya Grampus to a 4-1 home fistbeating of Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i, locking up the Group E title in the process.
At Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia:
Late second-half goals from Sasho Petrovski (88') and Sean Rooney (90'+4) lifted Newcastle United Jets to a 2-1 comeback home win over Beijing Guoan, lifting the Australian club into second place in Group E and eliminating the Chinese club from knockout stage contention.
GROUP E STANDINGS:
1. Nagoya Grampus** (GP: 5; GD: +6; PTS: 11)
2. Newcastle United Jets (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 7)
3. Ulsan Hyundai Horang-i (GP: 5; GD: -5; PTS: 6)
4. Beijing Guoan# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
**Won Group E and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group F:
At Jinan, China:
Leandro's goal at 59 minutes provided all the scoring as Gamba Osaka laid claim to the Group F title with a 1-0 road win over Shandong Luneng.
GROUP F STANDINGS:
1. Gamba Osaka** (GP: 5; GD: +14; PTS: 15)
2. Shandong Luneng (GP: 5; GD: +3; PTS: 7)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 7)
4. Srijwijaya FC# (GP: 5; GD: -19; PTS: 0)
**Won Group F and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Palmeiras Capture Round-of-16 Opener
The knockout stage in the Copa Libertadores commenced on Tuesday with the first match of the round of 16.
At Sao Paolo, Brazil:
Jose Ortigoza scored the only goal of the match (75') as Palmeiras defeated fellow Brazilian club Sport Recife 1-0 at home in the opening match of a two-game home-and-away series.
Red Devils Punch Ticket To Another Champions League Final As They Thump Gunners
At London:
Goals From J. S. Park (8') and Cristiano Ronaldo (11', 61', he's shown here celebrating after scoring his first goal) powered Manchester United to a 3-1 victory on the road over Arsenal in game two of the two clubs' two-match set to win the series 4-1 on aggregate on clinch a berth in the May 27 final of the UEFA Champi
ons League in Rome against the winner of the Chelsea-Barcelona series (which is deadlocked at 0-0 after last week's series opener in Spain).
Photo © Getty Images
Goals From J. S. Park (8') and Cristiano Ronaldo (11', 61', he's shown here celebrating after scoring his first goal) powered Manchester United to a 3-1 victory on the road over Arsenal in game two of the two clubs' two-match set to win the series 4-1 on aggregate on clinch a berth in the May 27 final of the UEFA Champi
ons League in Rome against the winner of the Chelsea-Barcelona series (which is deadlocked at 0-0 after last week's series opener in Spain).Photo © Getty Images
AFC Champions League Group Stage Play Resumes-----Minus Sharjah FC
Matchday #5 in group stage play in the AFC Champions League began Tuesday.
Group C:
At Tehran, Iran:
Ali Alizadeh's equalizer at 89 minutes enabled Esteghlal to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Al-Ittihad. Hicham Aboucherouane scored at 81 minutes for the Saudi club who will be playing in the knockout stage, which will not include their Iranian club hosts.
At Doha, Qatar:
Umm-Salal were held to a 2-2 home draw by Al-Jazira, but the hosts nevertheless clinched a Round-of-16 berth in the AFC Champions League while the visiting club from the Emirates have been eliminated.
GROUP C STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ittihad* (GP: 5; GD: +3; PTS: 9)
2. Amm-Salal* (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 8)
3. Al-Jazira# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
4. Esteghlal FC# (GP: 5; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group D:
At Dubai, UAE:
Al-Shabab Al-Arabi stayed alive in the competition following their 2-1 home win over Sepahan FC, which eliminated the Iranian club from the tounament.
At Dammam, Saudi Arabia:
Al-Ettifaq locked up a spot in the Round-of-16 (and clinched top spot in Group D in the process) thanks to their 4-0 home beatdown of FC Bunyodkor.
GROUP D STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ettifaq**(GP: 5; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 5; GD: -4; PTS: 7)
3. Al-Shabab Al-Arabi (GP: 5; GD: -5; PTS: 6)
4. Sepahan FC# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
**Won Group D and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group F:
At Seoul, South Korea:
Dejan Damjanovic's hat trick (17', 72' 90'+2) combined with Sim Woo-Yeon's brace (75', 79') as FC Seoul delivered a 5-1 home fistbeating to Sriwijaya FC.
Group G:
At Kashima, Japan:
Kashima Antlers locked up berth in the knockout stage with their 3-0 home domination of Suwon Bluewings. The Antlers got goalpower courtesy of Go Oiwa (26') and Marquinhos (31', 74')
At Singapore:
Singapore Armed Forces picked up their first point tournament as they gained a 1-1 home draw with Shanghai Shenhua, perhaps delivering a serieous blow to the Chinese club's hopes of advancing to the knockout stage. Ahmad Latiff scored for SAFFC at 29 minutes, while Hernan Barcos adverted what could have been an embarassing and cripling defeat with his equalizer at 90'+1.
GROUP G STANDINGS:
1. Kashima Antlers* (GP: 5; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. Suwon Bluewings (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 9)
3. Shanghai Shenhua (GP: 5; GD: +1; PTS: 7)
4. Singapore Armed Forces (GP: 5; GD: -13; PTS: 1)
Group H:
At Pohang, South Korea:
Denilson's hat trick (8', 71', 88') helped Pohang Steelers lock up a knockout stage berth as they held off visiting Central Coast Mariners 3-2.
At Tianjin, China:
Ma Leilei's double (12', 19') helped Tianjin Teda defeat visiting (and Round-of-16-bound) Kawasaki Frontale 3-1. The Chinese club were still eliminated from the tournament because of the Pohang Steelers win over Central Coast Mariners.
GROUP H STANDINGS:
1. Kawasaki Frontale* (GP: 5; GD: +5; PTS: 10)
2. Pohang Steelers* (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 9)
3. Tianjin Teda FC# (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 5)
4. Central Coast Mariners# (GP: 5; GD: -7; PTS: 2)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Sharjah FC from the United Arab Emirated withdrew from the AFC Champions League and their scores have been stricken from Group B.
The club may end up in deep excrement with the AFC as well as the Emirates' soccer league over that decision.
Group C:
At Tehran, Iran:
Ali Alizadeh's equalizer at 89 minutes enabled Esteghlal to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Al-Ittihad. Hicham Aboucherouane scored at 81 minutes for the Saudi club who will be playing in the knockout stage, which will not include their Iranian club hosts.
At Doha, Qatar:
Umm-Salal were held to a 2-2 home draw by Al-Jazira, but the hosts nevertheless clinched a Round-of-16 berth in the AFC Champions League while the visiting club from the Emirates have been eliminated.
GROUP C STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ittihad* (GP: 5; GD: +3; PTS: 9)
2. Amm-Salal* (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 8)
3. Al-Jazira# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
4. Esteghlal FC# (GP: 5; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group D:
At Dubai, UAE:
Al-Shabab Al-Arabi stayed alive in the competition following their 2-1 home win over Sepahan FC, which eliminated the Iranian club from the tounament.
At Dammam, Saudi Arabia:
Al-Ettifaq locked up a spot in the Round-of-16 (and clinched top spot in Group D in the process) thanks to their 4-0 home beatdown of FC Bunyodkor.
GROUP D STANDINGS:
1. Al-Ettifaq**(GP: 5; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 5; GD: -4; PTS: 7)
3. Al-Shabab Al-Arabi (GP: 5; GD: -5; PTS: 6)
4. Sepahan FC# (GP: 5; GD: -1; PTS: 4)
**Won Group D and advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Group F:
At Seoul, South Korea:
Dejan Damjanovic's hat trick (17', 72' 90'+2) combined with Sim Woo-Yeon's brace (75', 79') as FC Seoul delivered a 5-1 home fistbeating to Sriwijaya FC.
Group G:
At Kashima, Japan:
Kashima Antlers locked up berth in the knockout stage with their 3-0 home domination of Suwon Bluewings. The Antlers got goalpower courtesy of Go Oiwa (26') and Marquinhos (31', 74')
At Singapore:
Singapore Armed Forces picked up their first point tournament as they gained a 1-1 home draw with Shanghai Shenhua, perhaps delivering a serieous blow to the Chinese club's hopes of advancing to the knockout stage. Ahmad Latiff scored for SAFFC at 29 minutes, while Hernan Barcos adverted what could have been an embarassing and cripling defeat with his equalizer at 90'+1.
GROUP G STANDINGS:
1. Kashima Antlers* (GP: 5; GD: +10; PTS: 12)
2. Suwon Bluewings (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 9)
3. Shanghai Shenhua (GP: 5; GD: +1; PTS: 7)
4. Singapore Armed Forces (GP: 5; GD: -13; PTS: 1)
Group H:
At Pohang, South Korea:
Denilson's hat trick (8', 71', 88') helped Pohang Steelers lock up a knockout stage berth as they held off visiting Central Coast Mariners 3-2.
At Tianjin, China:
Ma Leilei's double (12', 19') helped Tianjin Teda defeat visiting (and Round-of-16-bound) Kawasaki Frontale 3-1. The Chinese club were still eliminated from the tournament because of the Pohang Steelers win over Central Coast Mariners.
GROUP H STANDINGS:
1. Kawasaki Frontale* (GP: 5; GD: +5; PTS: 10)
2. Pohang Steelers* (GP: 5; GD: +2; PTS: 9)
3. Tianjin Teda FC# (GP: 5; GD: 0; PTS: 5)
4. Central Coast Mariners# (GP: 5; GD: -7; PTS: 2)
*Advanced to the knockout stage
#Eliminated
Sharjah FC from the United Arab Emirated withdrew from the AFC Champions League and their scores have been stricken from Group B.
The club may end up in deep excrement with the AFC as well as the Emirates' soccer league over that decision.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Dynamo Blank Revs In Foxboro
At Foxborough, Massachusetts:
Stuart Holden (22') and Brian Ching (58') provided the goals that powered the Houston Dynamo to a 2-0 road win over the New England Revolution in the lone Sunday Major League Soccer match.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. DC United (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 8; GD: 0; PTS: 12)
3. Chicago Fire (GP: 7; GD: +3; PTS: 11)
4. Kansas City Wizards (GP: 7; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
5. New England Revolution (GP: 6; GD: -6; PTS: 8)
6. Columbus Crew (GP: 7; GD: -4; PTS: 5)
7. New York Red Bulls (GP: 8; GD: -5; PTS: 5)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 8; GD: +8; PTS: 19)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 7; GD: +6; PTS: 13)
3. Colorado Rapids (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
4. Real Salt Lake (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 9)
5. Houston Dynamo (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
6. Los Angeles Galaxy (GP: 6; GD: 0; PTS: 7)
7. San Jose Earthquakes (GP: 7; GD: -5; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 7; GD: -7; PTS: 4)
Stuart Holden (22') and Brian Ching (58') provided the goals that powered the Houston Dynamo to a 2-0 road win over the New England Revolution in the lone Sunday Major League Soccer match.
MLS STANDINGS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
1. DC United (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 12)
2. Toronto FC (GP: 8; GD: 0; PTS: 12)
3. Chicago Fire (GP: 7; GD: +3; PTS: 11)
4. Kansas City Wizards (GP: 7; GD: +1; PTS: 10)
5. New England Revolution (GP: 6; GD: -6; PTS: 8)
6. Columbus Crew (GP: 7; GD: -4; PTS: 5)
7. New York Red Bulls (GP: 8; GD: -5; PTS: 5)
WESTERN CONFERENCE:
1. Chivas USA (GP: 8; GD: +8; PTS: 19)
2. Seattle Sounders FC (GP: 7; GD: +6; PTS: 13)
3. Colorado Rapids (GP: 7; GD: +2; PTS: 11)
4. Real Salt Lake (GP: 6; GD: +4; PTS: 9)
5. Houston Dynamo (GP: 6; GD: +1; PTS: 8)
6. Los Angeles Galaxy (GP: 6; GD: 0; PTS: 7)
7. San Jose Earthquakes (GP: 7; GD: -5; PTS: 5)
8. FC Dallas (GP: 7; GD: -7; PTS: 4)
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