Category: Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE PREVIEW (5th May)

Post author By aldo
Post date May 4, 2023
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EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE PREVIEW, TIPS & PREDICTIONS
5th, 6th & 7th MAY 2023

1. Vipers Vs Kampala City (U2.5) Friday

Vipers are currently 3rd placed host 2nd placed KCCA as the race for the Ugandan Premier league continues. With a game in hand, the hosts are just 3 points behind KCCA and I do expect an exciting game at St. Mary’s stadium as both sides will not want to lose the 3 points. I do anticipate an U2.5 due to respect from each side for the other

2. Zamalek Vs Al Ahly (O2.5) Friday

It’s the final of the Egyptian Super Cup as two titans of Egyptian and African football at large meet in a big one today. Just expect an end to end going football game as both feel they are better than the other and they are both currently in high flying form. Of course it’s a neutral ground expect fire. 4/5 last H2H meetings have seen Over 2.5 goals.

3. Perugia Vs Cagliari (HT Over 0.5) Friday

With 3 games to go, Cagliari currently 6th placed still have a chance to enter Serie A promotion play off semifinals with just 4 points behind 4th placed Sudtirol. Perugia are 18th placed fighting relegation to Serie c making them badly need at least a result in this game. Both sides badly need this game and I do see a goal before the end of half time

4. Belshina Vs Bate (2) Saturday

Belshina have not won a game from their last 7 competitive games losing 5 and drawing twice. Well they are home but I do not see them stopping 4th placed Bate basing on the fact that they are sitting at the bottom of the log and have also lost 4/5 last H2H meetings with the guests.

5. St. Liege Vs Gent (O2.5) Saturday

At stade Maurice Dufrasne St. Liege host Gent as the Belgian top tier continues. It’s the conference league group as both sides have so far played one game with the former drawing and the latter winning. I do anticipate an over 2.5 as both sides have a forward going tactical game approach as 3/5 of their last H2H meetings have seen O2.5

6. Victoria Plzen Vs Slovaco (1) Saturday

At the Doosan Arena, Plzen host Slovacko as the race for European spots continues in the Czech top tier. Being home I do see Plzen edging the guests as 3 points will get them to 60 points edging their gap with 2nd placed Slavia Prague. 4/5 last H2H meetings have seen Plzen win.

7. St. Gallen Vs Young Boys (2&O2.5) Saturday

At Kybunpark, struggling St. Gallen host Young boys as the Switzerland Super League continues. St. Gallen have not won a game from their last 10 fixtures and have conceded in each of these 10 games. Young Boys ar already comfirmed as champions but I do see them winning this with an Over as they continue to try set a new record of points in the league. 7/7 last H2H meetings between the two sides have made 2.5 over.

8. Olympiacos Vs Panathinaikos (X2&U3.5) Sunday

Panathinaikos are 2nd placed on the log with equal points (77) with leaders AEK Athens as the race for who takes it in Greece continues. Olympiacos have not won a game against Panathinaikos in their last 5 H2H meetings and given the fact that the guests are chasing the league, I do not see them losing. Still 4/5 last H2H meetings saw U2.5

9. Cartagena Vs Burgos (O1.5) Sunday

Cartagen 7th and Burgos 8th placed are both pushing hard to enter the top 6 so as to play in La Liga promotion play offs. I do anticipate an end to end game approach from both sides since the 3 points are so vital for either side. Over 2+ goals is the safest odd youwill ever find in this fixture

10. Malmo Vs AIK (1) Sunday

Malmo currently 2nd placed with equal points with log leaders Hacken will badly seek for these 3 points today as they host 14th placed AIK at Eleda stadion in Malmo. Malmo have won all their last 5 games and I do not see struggling AIK stopping them this afternoon.

~GOOD LUCK~

Football

Five managers with the most Champions League semi-final appearances

Post author By mendrit
Post date April 28, 2023
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The UEFA Champions League is one of the most prestigious club competitions in the world of football. With its rich history, the tournament has seen many great teams and managers grace its stages. As the competition, progresses, the stakes get higher, and only the best teams and managers make it to the semi-finals. In this article, we will take a closer look at the five managers with the most Champions League semi-final appearances.

Louis Van Gaal: 5 semi-finals (Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich)

The only manager capable of doing it five times is Louis Van Gaal. For him, there were three semifinals: one with Ajax, one with Barcelona, and one with Bayern Munich. As for those with the Dutch team, two led to the final while one led to elimination: the two victories came in 1995 and 1996, against Bayern Munich and Panathinaikos; the one lost in 1997 against Juventus. He also lost that of 2000 at the helm of Barcelona, which had to surrender to Valencia. Positive outcome instead for the only semi-final with Bayern Munich, that of 2010 against Lyon.

Sir Alex Ferguson: 7 semi-finals (Manchester United)

Historic Manchester United manager, who, since his farewell, seems to have completely transformed into another team. Sir Alex Ferguson has reached seven Champions League semi-finals at the helm of the Red Devils. Slightly positive booty, with four wins and three defeats. The four victories are dated 1999 (against Juventus), 2008 (against Barcelona), 2009 (against Arsenal), and 2011 (against Schalke 04). The three defeats instead were 1997 (against Borussia Dortmund), 2001 (against Bayer Leverkusen), and 2007 (against Milan).

José Mourinho: 8 semi-finals (Porto, Inter Milan, Real Madrid)

The Special One is placed on the lowest step of the podium. The last coach to have brought the Champions League to Italy was that of 2010 at the helm of Inter. In total, he has made eight semi-finals: one with Porto, one with Inter Milan, three with Chelsea, and three with Real Madrid. Won just two: in 2004 with Porto against Chelsea and in 2010 with Inter against Barcelona. The six defeats are instead divided into three at the helm of Chelsea and three at the helm of Real Madrid. With the Blues in 2005 and 2007 against Liverpool and in 2014 against Atletico Madrid. With the merengues in 2011 against Barcelona, in 2012 against Bayern Munich, and in 2013 against Borussia Dortmund.

Carlo Ancelotti: 9 semi-finals (Juventus, Milan, Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti has just risen to second position thanks to yet another semi-final at the helm of Real Madrid. Of the nine in his career, there are four with Real Madrid, four with Milan, and one with Juventus. Let’s start with the one he achieved at the helm of the Black and Whites, the first ever in his career, which ended with a defeat against Manchester United in 1999. Of the four with Milan, three won and only one lost. The victories in 2003 against Inter Milan, in 2005 against PSV Eindhoven, and in 2007 against Manchester United; the only defeat in 2006 against Barcelona With Real, the record for now reads two victories and one defeat. The victories in 2014 against Bayern Munich and in 2022 against Manchester City; the only defeat in 2015 against Juventus However, there is still this year’s match to play, in which Real Madrid will once again meet Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola: 10 semi-finals (Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City)

The coach with the most Champions League semi-finals in history is Pep Guardiola, who has just reached ten thanks to the one he won with Manchester City. Specifically, four came from Barcelona, three from Bayern Munich, and three from Manchester City. Managing Barcelona, he achieved two victories (in 2009 against Chelsea and in 2011 against Real Madrid) and two defeats (in 2010 against Inter and in 2013 against Chelsea). Managing Bayern Munich, he suffered three defeats out of three: in 2014 against Real Madrid, in 2015 against Barcelona, and in 2016 against Atletico Madrid. One victory and one defeat for now with City: the victory in 2021 against PSG, the defeat in 2022 against Real Madrid.

Football

Carlos Sainz Jr: A rising star in Formula 1

Post author By mendrit
Post date April 28, 2023
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Carlos Sainz Jr: A rising star in Formula 1

Carlos Sainz Jr, the Spanish driver who started his career in Formula 1 with Toro Rosso in 2015, has now become a force to be reckoned with. With consistent performances and impressive results, Sainz is slowly but surely making his mark in the world of F1. In this article, we will take a closer look at Sainz’s career so far and what the future holds for this talented driver.

The pair of drivers from Maranello

At Ferrari, however, it happens quite often that the duo who take to the track do not have well-defined hierarchies. It would be enough to think of the substantial equality of treatment and results of the Vettel-Leclerc duo in recent years, as well as famous pairings of the past such as the one made up of Berger and Alesi.

Moreover, the situation is repeating itself even now, because if it is true that the main driver is Charles Leclerc, it is still difficult to declassify Carlos Sainz as a “simple” second driver.

Sainz’s Career So Far

Carlos Sainz junior, not to be confused with his father, Carlos “El Matador” Sainz, winner of three Paris-Dakar Rallies and two world rally championships, after starting his Formula 1 career with Toro Rosso, Sainz moved to Renault in 2017 but failed to achieve any memorable results. However, he found his footing with McLaren, where he spent two years and achieved his first podium in Brazil in 2019. His performance at McLaren was impressive, with him beating his teammate Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings for two years in a row.

In 2021, Sainz moved to Ferrari and had a successful first season with the team. He finished the season in fifth place, beating his teammate Charles Leclerc in the drivers’ standings. He also achieved four podiums during the season, including a second-place finish in Monaco.

In 2022, Sainz continued his good form and finished the season in fifth place again. He achieved his first-ever Grand Prix win at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone, a major highlight of the season. Although he was unable to overtake his teammate Leclerc in the standings, Sainz’s performances were crucial in securing Ferrari’s second place in the constructors’ championship.

What the Future Holds for Sainz

Sainz’s contract with Ferrari runs until 2024, which means he will have at least another season with the team. However, with both drivers’ contracts expiring in those months, Ferrari will have to consider their options for the future. The Red Bull team has expressed interest in Sainz, and if they don’t extend Sergio Perez’s contract, Sainz could potentially join Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Another possibility could be Mercedes, where Sainz could replace Lewis Hamilton, who is set to leave. However, Mercedes has a reputation for favoring a clear hierarchy between drivers, which could be an obstacle for Sainz.

Sainz’s impressive driving skills have also brought him some lucrative sponsorship deals. When he signed with Ferrari, he had the Spanish bank, Banca Santander, as his principal sponsor. Estrella Galicia, a Spanish brewery, and other personal sponsors such as Playstation and Shiseido also sponsor him. His annual sponsorship income is approximately 3 million euros.

Conclusion

Carlos Sainz Jr has shown great promise in his career so far, and his performances at McLaren and Ferrari have solidified his position as a talented driver in Formula 1. With a Grand Prix win under his belt and several podium finishes, Sainz’s future looks bright.

It will be interesting to see where he ends up next and how he continues to perform in the upcoming seasons.

Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE TIPS (26th April)

Post author By aldo
Post date April 27, 2023
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EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE TIPS & PREVIEW

28^th, 29^th & 30^th APRIL

Altach Vs Wolfsberger (O2.5) Friday

As the Austrian league enter match day 26, the relegation battle between 2 famous sides goes underway. It is the relegation group and 11^th placed Altach host 9^th Wolfsberger to try secure Bundesliga promotion playoff spots. I do anticipate aggressiveness from both sides to go all way for goals to secure 3 points. 4/5 last H2H saw O2.5

Gent Vs Westerlo (1) Friday

The Belgium league returns today with Match day one as Gent host Westerlo at the Ghelamco Arena. I do see the hosts trying to go all way for a win since the league commences today. I do not see Gent losing at home. Odd 1.58 is the real deal

Coritiba Vs Sao Paolo (Yes) Saturday

Coritiba currently 19^th placed fighting relegation host 8^th placed Sao Paolo as the Brazillian top tier league continues. Both sides really need 3 points in this fixture to keep their league hope alive and I do see both sides at least scoring a goal. All their last 5 H2H matches have seen both teams scoring.

Kalju Vs Levadia (2.5 U) Saturday

Estonian league leaders Levadia host 4^th placed Kalju as the battle of Titans goes down today at Hiiu stadium in Tallin. 2 competetive sides at a crucial moment when 7 points is the gap between them, I do anticipate a reserved game each side respecting the other with fear of not losing the 3 points. 5/5 last H2H have seen Under 2.5

Maccabi Tel Aviv Vs Hapoel Jerusalem (1) Saturday

It’s the Championship group and here comes round 33 in the Israel Ligat Ha’al. I do see Maccabi Tel Aviv doing the needful to win this fixture at home though it will be with a minimal margin of 1 or 2 goals. 3^rd and 4^th placed respectively, a tight one but we trust the home side to edge the guests slightly

NAC Breda Vs Roda (1) Saturday

7^th placed Breda host 13^th placed Roda as the Holland 2^nd tier continues. Roda have not won a single game from their last 5 outings and being away from away from home today, I do not give them a chance against high flying Breda

Bodo Glimit Vs Brann (O2.5) Saturday

Bodo are topping the Norwegian league as Brann sit 2^nd from the first 3 games played so far. Bodo so far have 100% record after winning 3/3 games played so far and Brann have only won 2 meaning 3 points separate the 2 sides. I do anticipate a forward going game resulting into multiple goals from either side easily leading to 2.5 over. 4/5 last H2H meetings have seen O2.5

Petrocub Vs Sherrif Tiraspol (U2.5) Sunday

Two top sides in the Moldovan top league meet today as 2^nd placed Petrocub host table leaders Sherrif in match day 7. The difference between 2 sides is 5 points and I do anticipate a reserved game as both sides do not easily concede goals. Both are solid at the back and 4/5 last H2H meetings have seen under 2.5

Sporting CP Vs Famalicao (1) Sunday

Sporting CP is currently 4^th placed as they continue their pursuit for Champions league football next season. Famalicao are 6^th placed and a bit stubborn but I do see the hosts winning it basing on Pedigree. Sporting have won all their last 3 H2H meetings with Famalicao

Rangers Vs Celtic (2) Sunday

It’s the Old firm derby as Rangers host Celtic at Hampden park a neutral ground. It the semifinals of the Scottish cup. Celtic have won3/5 last H2H meetings with Rangers and I do see Celtic coming out as victors today at Fultime. Why? They have a better set of players, pedigree and form.

Football

Does the winner of the Champions League qualify for the next Champions League automatically?

Post author By mendrit
Post date April 20, 2023
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There is no doubt that every single football team in Europe has as their top priority the achievement of winning either the Champions League or the Europa League. These desired cups are the key to success and acclaim, which is why every club, regardless of how big or small, strives to win them. However, in addition to the joy that comes with winning these cups, there is also the added strain of being able to compete in the subsequent edition. Does the winner of the Champions League qualify for the next Champions League automatically? The answer to this question is a resounding yes.

The winner of the Champions League qualifies for the following year: the rule

It is true that the champion of the Champions League is granted automatic entry into the next season’s competition. This ensures that the squad will not be required to compete in any of the qualifying rounds for the Champions League and will instead advance directly to the group stage. Having said that, there are certain exceptions to this rule. If the champion team has previously qualified for the Champions League through their ranking in their league, they will not be granted automatic entry into the subsequent competition if they win that competition.

Let’s take the example of a German team winning the Champions League without being among the top four teams in the standings. In this case, Germany will have five teams qualified for the Champions League in the next edition. However, if a German team wins the Champions League and is already among the top four teams in the standings, the fifth spot will go to the team that finishes fifth in the league. In other words, the winning team does not “free up” a spot for another team.

Whoever wins the Europa League qualifies for the next Champions League

In the Europa League, the rule is the same as it was in the Champions League. The champion of the Europa League will be granted automatic qualification for the next season’s Champions League competition. This is a fantastic opportunity for teams that are not placed very well in the general classification of their respective leagues to snag a pass for the Champions League. For example, Juventus, who are presently competing in the quarterfinals of the Europa League, may not end up being one of the top four clubs in the Serie A table, but they still have a chance to qualify for the Champions League if they win the Europa League.

A team wins the Champions League or Europa League but is relegated: how does it work?

But what happens if a team that wins the Champions League or the Europa League is relegated? In such a scenario, the team will still gain access to the next edition of the Champions League, regardless of their league placement. This rule ensures that the winners of these cups are not punished for their league performance and are given the opportunity to defend their title the following season.

In conclusion, the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League both qualify for the next edition of the Champions League. However, this rule only applies if the winning team has not already qualified for the competition through their league placement. In such cases, the extra spot does not “free up” for another team. The thrill of winning these cups is undeniable, and with the added incentive of automatic qualification for the next edition of the Champions League, teams will undoubtedly give it their all to achieve their goals.

Football

EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE TIPS AND PREDICTIONS (21st April)

Post author By aldo
Post date April 20, 2023
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EKITANGAZA KYA WEEKEND ONLINE TIPS AND PREDICTIONS

21^st, 22^nd and 23^rd APRIL

Arsenal Vs Southampton (1) Friday

After 2 consistent draws, Arsenal are now just 4 points with a game more ahead of Man City. I do see them using all possible ways to grab the 3 points in this fixture given they are the hosts. Southampton have not won a game from their last 5 fixtures

Angers Vs PSG (2) Friday

PSG are 8 points clear at the top and we have seen them regain their winning form after a few sloppy performances. PSG have won 5/5 last H2H meetings with Angers

Leicester Vs Wolves (1X) Saturday

Leicester are 19^th placed and all they are fighting for is to avoid relegation. Being home at King Power stadium, I do expect a hostile environment for the guest and the best they will get is a draw from this fixture

Liverpool Vs Nottingham (1) Saturday

After thumping Leeds 6:1, Liverpool are still 8^th placed and if they are to have any chances of Champions league football next season, they have to push for a win in each of their remaining fixture. Sure win at home

Mainz Vs Bayern (2) Saturday

With just 2 points ahead of Dortmund, I do see Bayern pushing for 3 points in this fixture as the race to this seasons triumph continues. Bayern at odd 1.60, Its worth a risk when they need to stretch their log lead

Dortmund Vs Frankfurt (O2.5) Saturday

Dortmundjust 2 points behind Bayern does not want to lose any points if they are to have any chance sof winning the league. Frankfurt 7^th placed wants to qualify for champions league next season with 8 points behind top 4. Expect an end to end game with plenty of goals from either side. 4/5 last H2H have seen O2.5

Real Madrid Vs Celta Vigo (HC 1) Saturday

With 9 points behind Barcelona on top of the league, Real Madrid will try as much as possible to create more hope of reclaiming the league however hard it looks. Madrid have won 5/5 last H2H meetings with Celta and being at the Bernabeu today, expect a confortable win for the hosts.

Newcastle Vs Tottenham (Yes & O2.5) Sunday

Newcastle 4^th place host Tottenham 5^th placed with 3 points separating the two as the race for top 4 continues. 5/5 last H2H meetings have seen both teams scoring and 4 of those made O2.5.

Expect a forward going game approach from either side.

Brighton Vs Manchester United (Yes) Sunday

Here we come at Wembley in the semifinal of FA Cup as united looks set to proceed to their second final of the season. 2 exciting sides this season meet at a neutral ground but of course Man United has a pedigree as they have played more games at Wembley than Brighton however no one can ever rule out Brighton this season following their well-coordinated squad. I do not expect Brighton to respect United and this will make us witness a minimum of one goal from each side.

Juventus Vs Napoli (1) Sunday

Napoli have just been knocked out of Champions League by AC Milan and we have all witnessed their high flying form decline to the worst that they have lost twice and drawn once in their last 5 outings. Juventus chasing their UCL dream next season, I do see them fighting hard to come out as victors in this fixture given Napoli’s morale is a bit down following their painful UCL exit.

GOOD LUCK

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Top 10 Moments in NBA Playoff History

Post author By aldo
Post date April 15, 2023
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Top 10 Moments in NBA Playoff History

Basketball fans around the world eagerly await the start of the NBA playoffs each year. This thrilling tournament features the best teams from the regular season battling it out to become champions of the league. While each postseason is special in its own way, there are certain moments that stand out in NBA playoff history as truly iconic. From buzzer-beaters to clutch performances, let’s take a look at the top 15 moments in NBA playoff history.

The Shot – 1989

Michael Jordan’s career is filled with memorable moments, but perhaps none is more legendary than “The Shot” in the 1989 playoffs. With the Chicago Bulls tied with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the final seconds of Game 5, Jordan hit a game-winning jumper over Craig Ehlo to clinch the series.

The Flu Game – 1997

In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan played through a severe case of the flu to lead the Chicago Bulls to victory over the Utah Jazz. Despite being visibly weakened, Jordan scored 38 points and hit the game-winning three-pointer in the final minute.

The Block – 2016

In Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors were tied in the final minutes. With the Warriors threatening to take the lead, LeBron James made a spectacular block on Andre Iguodala’s layup to preserve the tie. The Cavaliers went on to win the game and the championship.

The Steal – 1987

With the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons tied in Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals, Larry Bird made a crucial steal and assist to give the Celtics a two-point lead. The play helped propel Boston to a series-clinching win and a trip to the NBA Finals.

The Dunk – 1991

Michael Jordan’s high-flying acrobatics were on full display in the 1991 NBA Finals. In Game 2 against the Los Angeles Lakers, Jordan soared past multiple defenders to throw down a spectacular dunk that has since become known simply as “The Dunk.”

The Shot II – 1993

Four years after “The Shot,” Michael Jordan once again hit a game-winning jumper in the playoffs. In Game 4 of the 1993 NBA Finals, Jordan scored over Bryon Russell to give the Chicago Bulls a 3-1 series lead over the Utah Jazz.

The Memorial Day Miracle – 1995

In Game 1 of the 1995 Western Conference Finals, the Houston Rockets were down by as many as 20 points to the Phoenix Suns. The Rockets, however, pulled off a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback under the leadership of Hakeem Olajuwon, which led to an unlikely victory that has since come to be known as the “Memorial Day Miracle.”

The Shot III – 1998

In the final seconds of Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan hit a game-winning shot over Utah Jazz defender Bryon Russell to secure the championship for the Chicago Bulls. The play has become known as “The Last Shot” and is widely considered one of the greatest moments in NBA history.

The “Iceman” Cometh – 1978

In Game 7 of the 1978 Eastern Conference Finals, the Washington Bullets were leading the San Antonio Spurs by one point in the final seconds. However, Spurs guard George Gervin had a chance to win the game with a free throw. After missing the shot, Gervin redeemed himself by hitting a game-winning jumper that has since become known as “The Iceman Cometh.”

The Miracle of Richfield – 1976

In the 1976 Eastern Conference Finals, the Cleveland Cavaliers pulled off a stunning upset of the Boston Celtics, who had won the previous two NBA championships. The Cavaliers won Game 4 in double overtime thanks to guard Austin Carr’s 20 points in the fourth quarter, clinching the series victory.

Football

Ballon d’Or Dream Team The Complete Lineup and Players

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Post date April 15, 2023
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Ballon d’Or Dream Team: The Complete Lineup and Players

The world’s best football player receives the highly coveted Ballon d’Or award every year from France Football magazine. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, which interrupted and postponed several championships, France Football compiled the Top 11 Ballon d’Or all-time list in 2020.

Not all of the eleven players won the prize, but they were nonetheless on the voters list (except Maradona and Pele, who, when they were footballers, could not be voted for, as they were South Americans). Let’s see in detail the dream formation of the Ballon d’Or dream team.

Player	Position	Country
Lev Yashin	Goalkeeper	Soviet Union
Cafu	Right back	Brazil
Franz Beckenbauer	Central Defender	West Germany
Lothar Matthaeus	Central Defender	West Germany
Paolo Maldini	Left back	Italy
Xavi	Defensive midfielder	Spain
Pele	Offensive midfielder	Brazil
Maradona	Offensive midfielder	Argentina
Lionel Messi	Right wing	Argentina
Ronaldo	Center forward	Brazil
Cristiano Ronaldo	Left wing	Portugal

1. Goalkeeper: Lev Yashin

Yashin is the only goalkeeper who has won the Ballon d’Or award. He played for Dynamo Moscow and the Soviet national team, earning the nickname “the black spider” for his outstanding goalkeeping abilities.

2. Right back: Cafu

Cafu, a Brazilian fullback, captained the World Cup in 2002 and had previously won the World Cup in 1994. He also played for Rome and Milan, where he won numerous titles.

3. Central defender: Franz Beckenbauer

Beckenbauer, a former German national team player and coach, is remembered as one of the best free-throw shooters of all time. He won the 1974 World Cup with the German national team and three consecutive European Cups between 1974 and 1976 with Bayern.

4. Central Defense: Lothar Matthaeus

Matthaeus started his career as a full-field midfielder but was later converted to a central defender. He won the record Scudetto with Trapattoni’s Inter in the 1988–89 season and the 1990 World Cup with the German national team.

5. Left back: Paolo Maldini

Paolo Maldini, an Italian player, was the leader of Milan and the Italian national team. He played as a wing defender and center back and won numerous titles, including five European Cups with Milan.

6. Defensive midfielder: Xavi

Xavi was the initiator of the famous “tiki-taka” maneuver that Barcelona was known for. He helped Barcelona succeed and win the World Cup with the Spanish national team in 2010 and two consecutive European championships in 2008 and 2012.

7. Offensive midfielder: Pele

Pele was a Brazilian player and is widely considered one of the best footballers in history. He won three world titles with the Brazilian national team and played for Santos, where he became an absolute leader.

8. Offensive midfielder: Diego Armando Maradona

Maradona was an Argentine player who led his national team to victory in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. He also won two league titles and the UEFA Cup with Napoli.

9. Right wing: Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is the only player to have won the Ballon d’Or award seven times. He was the leader of Barcelona, winning numerous titles with the club, and led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

10. Center forward: Ronaldo

Called “Ronaldo the Phenomenon” to differentiate him from Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian was the best player in the world in the late 1990s.

Conditioned then by injuries that affected his career, Ronaldo still won the World Cup in 2002 thanks to his brace in the final against Germany and was the absolute protagonist in the jerseys of Barcelona, Inter, and Real Madrid.

11. Left wing: Cristiano Ronaldo

Winner of 5 Golden Balls and always fighting with Messi for the title of best in the world.

CR7 has always been the protagonist in the shirts of Manchester United and Real Madrid, and in the three seasons, he played with Juve. He dragged his national team to a European triumph in 2006, and after the World Cup, he played as a protagonist in Qatar before leaving Europe to go and play in Saudi Arabia, where he continues to score goals.

Football

History A Brief Story of AFCON

Post author By aldo
Post date April 14, 2023
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History: A Brief Story of AFCON

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the biggest football tournament in Africa. The tournament has a rich history dating back to 1957, when the first edition was held in Sudan. Since then, it has grown in popularity and now attracts millions of fans from all over the continent and beyond.

One of the key aspects of AFCON is the qualification process. This is where national teams from across Africa compete for a chance to play in the tournament proper. The AFCON qualifiers are a grueling process, but they help to ensure that the best teams make it to the main event.

The AFCON qualifiers take place over a period of two years, with the first round of matches usually played in June of the year before the tournament is scheduled to take place. The format of the qualifiers varies from one edition to the next, but in general, teams are grouped together and play each other home and away.

The number of teams that qualify for the AFCON varies, but in recent years, it has been 24. This means that the top two teams from each group, as well as the four best third-place teams, qualify for the tournament.

The AFCON qualifiers are not just about determining which teams make it to the tournament proper; they also provide a platform for up-and-coming players to showcase their skills. For many players, the AFCON qualifiers are their first taste of international football, and they will be hoping to make a name for themselves and catch the eye of scouts from top clubs around the world.

African Cup of Nations winners list:

1957 Egypt

1959 United Arab Republic

1962 Ethiopia

1963 Ghana

1965 Ghana

1968 DR Congo

1970 Sudan

1972 PR Congo

1974 Zaire

1976 Morocco

1978 Ghana

1980 Nigeria

1982 Ghana

1984 Cameroon

1986 Egypt

1988 Cameroon

1990 Algeria

1992 Ivory Coast

1994 Nigeria

1996 South Africa

1998 Egypt

2000 Cameroon

2002 Cameroon

2004 Tunisia

2006 Egypt

2008 Egypt

2010 Egypt

2012 Zambia

2013 Nigeria

2015 Ivory Coast

2017 Cameroon

2019 Algeria

2021 Senegal

History of AFCON

The history of the AFCON is a rich one, with many great moments and memorable matches. From Cameroon’s dramatic win in 1988 to Egypt’s record-setting three straight titles, the tournament has given us some of the best moments in the history of African football.

One of the most famous moments in the history of the tournament came in 1996, when South Africa hosted the event for the first time since their release from apartheid. The team, which had been banned from international football for many years, went on to win the tournament, beating Tunisia in the final.

Other great moments in the history of the AFCON include Cameroon’s dramatic victory in the 1988 final against Nigeria, which saw them come back from two goals down to win 4-3, and Egypt’s record-breaking three consecutive titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010.

But AFCON is not just about the big moments; it is also about the passion and energy that African football brings. From the colorful fanfare to the rhythmic drumming, the tournament is a celebration of African culture and heritage. With the AFCON qualifiers currently underway, there is still a lot to play for. Some of the biggest names in African football, including Senegal, Nigeria, and the Ivory Coast, are all vying for a place in the tournament proper. But there are also plenty of up-and-coming teams that will be looking to cause an upset and make a name for themselves.

One of the key factors that will determine which teams make it to AFCON 2022 is the quality of their players. Some of the best football players in history have come from Africa. These players include Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, and George Weah.

But the quality of African football goes beyond just individual players. The teams that have been successful in the past have been those that have been able to work together as a unit and play to their strengths. Whether it is the speed and skill of the West African teams or the physicality and organization of the North African teams, each team has its own unique style and approach.

In conclusion, the AFCON qualifiers provide a fascinating insight into African football and the passion and energy that it brings. With the next edition of the tournament just around the corner, there is a lot to look forward to for fans of African football.

Football

Curious European Cups curiosities explained

Post author By aldo
Post date April 14, 2023
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Curious European Cups curiosities explained

The European continent plays host to a number of the world’s most important football competitions. The UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, and the UEFA Super Cup are the football tournaments that people in Europe watch and go to the most. Millions of viewers from all over the world tune in each year to watch these competitions, and nothing else can match the level of excitement and thrill they provide.

But who exactly is the most popular phenomenon in these competitions? What is it about them that makes them stand out? In this article, we will investigate the odd European Cup occurrences and explain why they have become a cultural phenomenon.

1.Pedro is a serial winner

Most of the matches are played at night, and sometimes the continental competitions even take the field in the afternoon, but over the years there have still been many other players who have particularly distinguished themselves when it came to playing the European cups.

An example above all? Pedro. When the matches get important, the Lazio footballer never fails to sign his name.

In the semi-finals and finals, he played and scored nine times, including goals in the 2011 Champions League final and the 2015 European Super Cup with Barcelona, as well as one in the last act of the 2019 Europa League when he played with Arsenal.

Another who has written great pages of his career in cups is Simone Inzaghi. Before Ciro Immobile caught up to him, the current Inter coach was Lazio’s leading scorer in European competitions.

“Simoncino” was a hard worker who never stopped scoring in the Champions League and the UEFA Cup. His poker at Olympique Marseille was a memorable moment, and he finished his time with the Biancoceleste with 20 European goals.

2.The stars of the moment

The first is certainly Erling Braut Haaland, the goal machine. Of course, one could argue that the Norwegian actually scores at any time and in any competition, but his relationship with the Champions League is something special.

In fact, it was his continental performances with the Salzburg shirt that launched the center forward among the stars of world football, when in just 6 group games he scored 8 times.

Haaland also did very well in the Champions League with Borussia Dortmund, becoming the competition’s top scorer in the 2020/21 season despite his team’s exit in the quarterfinals.

And even with the Manchester City shirt, the cyborg managed to maintain his crazy average, which speaks of more goals scored in the competition than games played. But Haaland is not the only player on Guardiola’s team who boosts himself on European nights.

If in the last few years the Citizens have often come close to playing for the Champions League, they often have to thank Riyad Mahrez. In the 2020/21 season, when the English team played in the final, the Algerian led the team to both the quarter-finals and above all in the semi-final against PSG, scoring three of City’s four goals in the double-header.

Last season, Mahrez scored 7 goals, and also in the current season, he was fundamental in the group stage for his home club at the Etihad.

3.Vinicius Junior always scores in the Champions League

It would then be impossible not to think about Real Madrid and the one who decided the last Champions League, or Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian from Los Blancos has established himself more and more in Ancelotti’s rotations, and in the 2022–23 season, he confirmed himself as a man of the cup, consistently scoring both in the group stage and in the knockout stages.

In particular, Vinicius has made Liverpool a target: in the last three years, the Reds have let him score five goals in four games, including the goal that also decided the final in Paris…

Next to Vini, there is also Rodrygo, another who gets excited if he sees the Champions League. In fact, there are more goals for him in Europe than in La Liga with Real, including the two that last season allowed Los Blancos to reach the final, beating Manchester City in extra time.

4.The specialist technicians at international cups

And among the coaches? Who has a particular relationship with the cups? Certainly Carlo Ancelotti, who is the only one to have won the big-eared cup four times and who always gives his best at gala evenings.

Then there would be Josè Mourinho, the only one who can say he has won all three current UEFA competitions, having done so with four clubs and never losing a final. The only thing missing from the Portuguese is the Cup Winners’ Cup, which however was no longer played when he became coach.

On the other hand, he won it as a second to Robson at Barcelona!

Sir Alex Ferguson should also be included in the list, who in addition to the cups won with Manchester United also boasts a Cup Winners’ Cup won with Aberdeen by beating Real Madrid in the final, which is not exactly something everyone can think of achieving.

And it’s impossible to close this list without mentioning Unai Emery.

His palmares, which include four Europa Leagues (three with Sevilla and one with Villarreal) and a Champions League semi-final with Villareal, demonstrate the Basque coach’s expertise in European competitions. Just to prove that when it’s evening and you play around the Old Continent, few can compete with him…