I hope to run more
I hope to run more these few days but was not able to run more due to blisters in my left feet and a persistent lower back pain. I have signed up for the AHM 2010 10 km competitive run earlier in the month. AHM will be held in Spetember this year. Still have some time to train up. I hope to finish in less than 1 hours. I will be attending the SPMS Freshmen Orientation Camp next week so it will disrupt my running training. I sincerely hoped that I will not be injured before the AHM race and participate in the race.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
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World Cup Talkpoint- World Cup Final
World Cup Talkpoint
Spain vs Holland
Not the most entertaining of world cup final ever. Spain scored the winning goal through Andres Ineista in the 26th min of extra time to edge out two-time losing finalists Holland 1-0 after extra time. This match produces a world cup finals recorded of 13 yellow and one red card. But English referee Howard Webb handling of the match was questionable. He and his assistant referee should never be allowed to referee another match in FIFA touranment. He got the key decision all worng. And the side which benefit most from his call is very obvious SPAIN. He should have send off Puyol for pulling back Robben in the 83rd min. There is no two ways about it. But how on Earth Webb did not spot the infrinfrigement or refusal to blow for a foul is relly beyond my comprehension. And Flashback to the moments before Ineista goal, Holland had a free kick near the Spainish penalty box and the ball took a big deflection off the Spainish defensive wall and out for a obvious corner but Webb point to a goal kick much to many people surprise. How can a referee and his assistant miss such a clear deflection. Webb and his assisstant was roundly boo when they collect their medal for being the officals for this match and i thoght they deserved the boo. Maybe some rotten eggs and rotten oranges to go with it. It was a disgace and i can understand the frustation of the dutch camp. They were denied the chance of lifting the world cup by a referee who set his stall out to denied them and to let Spain win the World Cup. I am not surprised by the high amount of yellow card to the Dutch player because every time a Dutch player committ a foul, Puyol and company will suuround the referee and presurise him to award a yellow card. Imaginary yellow card was waved by the Spanish player and i would like to ask where is the gamemanship Spain.And Webb was intimidated to award booking to the dutch player much to my horror. If Fifa fined dutch for their discipline in the final, the same must be meted out to Spain as they are equally guility, It was certainly a conspiarcy somewhere in FIFA to make sure Spain is the world cup winner. But Holland should have won the game in regulation time, Robben should have buried his chance in thr 62nd minutes.
Golden Ball & Golden Boot
As stated in my previous post, i expect Forlan to scored in the match and i was right to a certain extend as i predict he will score two. But although he scored one, he together with David Villa, Wesley Sneijder and Thomas Muller final the touranment with five goals although the golden boot was award to Thomas Muller. But in terms of stats, they will be four joint top scorer in thre tourament. Forlan was awarded the Golden Ball for being the best player of the touramnet much to my surprise. Yes, Forlan did have a good touranment and led Uruguay admirably but i thought Sneijder is the most deserving player to receive the award. Touranment best young player again went to a German. Thomas Muller was an obvious stand out in that catogery. Best goalkeeper went to Spain Casillas.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Spain vs Holland
Not the most entertaining of world cup final ever. Spain scored the winning goal through Andres Ineista in the 26th min of extra time to edge out two-time losing finalists Holland 1-0 after extra time. This match produces a world cup finals recorded of 13 yellow and one red card. But English referee Howard Webb handling of the match was questionable. He and his assistant referee should never be allowed to referee another match in FIFA touranment. He got the key decision all worng. And the side which benefit most from his call is very obvious SPAIN. He should have send off Puyol for pulling back Robben in the 83rd min. There is no two ways about it. But how on Earth Webb did not spot the infrinfrigement or refusal to blow for a foul is relly beyond my comprehension. And Flashback to the moments before Ineista goal, Holland had a free kick near the Spainish penalty box and the ball took a big deflection off the Spainish defensive wall and out for a obvious corner but Webb point to a goal kick much to many people surprise. How can a referee and his assistant miss such a clear deflection. Webb and his assisstant was roundly boo when they collect their medal for being the officals for this match and i thoght they deserved the boo. Maybe some rotten eggs and rotten oranges to go with it. It was a disgace and i can understand the frustation of the dutch camp. They were denied the chance of lifting the world cup by a referee who set his stall out to denied them and to let Spain win the World Cup. I am not surprised by the high amount of yellow card to the Dutch player because every time a Dutch player committ a foul, Puyol and company will suuround the referee and presurise him to award a yellow card. Imaginary yellow card was waved by the Spanish player and i would like to ask where is the gamemanship Spain.And Webb was intimidated to award booking to the dutch player much to my horror. If Fifa fined dutch for their discipline in the final, the same must be meted out to Spain as they are equally guility, It was certainly a conspiarcy somewhere in FIFA to make sure Spain is the world cup winner. But Holland should have won the game in regulation time, Robben should have buried his chance in thr 62nd minutes.
Golden Ball & Golden Boot
As stated in my previous post, i expect Forlan to scored in the match and i was right to a certain extend as i predict he will score two. But although he scored one, he together with David Villa, Wesley Sneijder and Thomas Muller final the touranment with five goals although the golden boot was award to Thomas Muller. But in terms of stats, they will be four joint top scorer in thre tourament. Forlan was awarded the Golden Ball for being the best player of the touramnet much to my surprise. Yes, Forlan did have a good touranment and led Uruguay admirably but i thought Sneijder is the most deserving player to receive the award. Touranment best young player again went to a German. Thomas Muller was an obvious stand out in that catogery. Best goalkeeper went to Spain Casillas.
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4 July 2010 - 9 july 2010
Have had a good past week. Last Sunday 4 July 2010. Played Street Soccer with some of my poly mates in Bukit Panjang. It had been a long time since i last seen them. Then had dinner with them at Ajisen Ramen and watched the movie named Eclipse together at Lot 1 Choa Chu Kang Shopping mall. Monday 5 July 2010, Watch Toy Story 3 with my dear Sister at Jurong Point Golden Village.
Tuesday 6 July 2010, went back to Pasir Laba Camp and watched movie Ip man with Xiaoyi, heng yang, Winston and Ck Tan. Friday 9 July 2010, meet Luther for lunch and went to Queensway Shooping together. Bought a Saucony Progrid Stabil CS for $142. The shoes is on the heavy side as it is same for all motion control shoes. Hopefully it will be good for me in the long run. I look forward to run with the shoe soon.
Tuesday 6 July 2010, went back to Pasir Laba Camp and watched movie Ip man with Xiaoyi, heng yang, Winston and Ck Tan. Friday 9 July 2010, meet Luther for lunch and went to Queensway Shooping together. Bought a Saucony Progrid Stabil CS for $142. The shoes is on the heavy side as it is same for all motion control shoes. Hopefully it will be good for me in the long run. I look forward to run with the shoe soon.
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Golden Ball, Golden Boot Predictions
World Cup Talkpoint
Golden Ball & Golden Boot
The ten nominees for the Golden Ball is out. Golden Ball is given to the official trophy given to the best player of the touranment. The ten players are Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Bastian Schweinstiger (Germany), Mesut Oezil (Germany), Andres Iniesta (Spain), David Villa (Spain), Xavi (Spain), Arjen Robben (Nerthelands), Wesley Sneijder (Nerthelands). I was surprised by the nomination of Gyan from Ghana, it is probably due to that he is the best performing african player with three goals therefore his nomination is due to the fact that FIFA think it is necessary to nominate someone form the host continent. I just cannot see why he is nominated ahead of Germany Thomas Muller. The nomination of Lionel Messi is a surprise to many as Argentina was elimintaed in the quarter final but for me that is no-brainer. His performance at this world cup is much better than other superstars namely Portugal Cristiano Ronlado and England Wayne Ronney but due to the fact that Argentina was elimated in the quarter final, his chances of winning the golden ball is rather slim. Diego Forlan chances is also slim as he is not really a flamboyant player and does his job rather efficiently. Germany two nominees in Oezil and Schweinstiger both have outstanding touranment but again Golden Ball winner usually come from the team that entered the final and not team playing the third-fourth palyoff match. Therefore, it is down to Iniesta, Villa, Xavi, Robben and Sneijder. My money is on Sneijder because he can created and scored. He is also currently the joint top scorer alongside David Villa in the world cup with five goals. Remember the last World Cup, Zidane (playmaker) won the Golden Ball therefore i think Sneijder is in with a serious shot. Xavi have completed the most pass among all the player in the the world cup but he had not scored which will handicap him in the running of the award. Iniesta is still not a finished article yet. Robben had an outstanding season with FC Bayern but he did not start the first two games of the touranment which will count against him. Villa had again porved that he is one for the big touranment and he together with Sneijder are current top scorer of the touranment. But when is the last time that a striker won the Golden Ball, Ronaldo form Brazil in 1998 World Cup 12 years old. Therefore i foresee the streak of striker not winning the golden ball will continue when Sneijder was named Golden Ball Winner for World Cup 2010.
As for Golden Boot, there is current four contender in the running. David Villa from Spain and Wesley Sneijder from Netherlands are current joint top scorer of the tournament. 2006 World Cup Golden Boot winner Klose together with Uruguay Diego Forlan is one back with four goals. I see the golden boot winner to score six goals. I think Forlan will score twice in the third and fourth place playoff to claim the golden boot. I also think he will share with Sneijder who will score the winning goal in the world cup final against spain.
PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ARE THE ASSUMPSTIONS AND PREDICTIONS MADE BY KER CHUAN HAO, ELVIN AND DO NOT REPRESENT THE VIEWS OF FIFA OR ANY FOOTBALL ORGANISATION. IT IS DEEPLY REGRETTED IF THE VIEWS OFFENDED ANYONE IN ANY WAYS AND SINCERE APOLOGIZES IN ADVANCE. ALL THE VIEWS AND ASSUMPTIONS ARE MADE CORRECT AS AT 10 JULY 2010, 2139 HRS.
Golden Ball & Golden Boot
The ten nominees for the Golden Ball is out. Golden Ball is given to the official trophy given to the best player of the touranment. The ten players are Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Bastian Schweinstiger (Germany), Mesut Oezil (Germany), Andres Iniesta (Spain), David Villa (Spain), Xavi (Spain), Arjen Robben (Nerthelands), Wesley Sneijder (Nerthelands). I was surprised by the nomination of Gyan from Ghana, it is probably due to that he is the best performing african player with three goals therefore his nomination is due to the fact that FIFA think it is necessary to nominate someone form the host continent. I just cannot see why he is nominated ahead of Germany Thomas Muller. The nomination of Lionel Messi is a surprise to many as Argentina was elimintaed in the quarter final but for me that is no-brainer. His performance at this world cup is much better than other superstars namely Portugal Cristiano Ronlado and England Wayne Ronney but due to the fact that Argentina was elimated in the quarter final, his chances of winning the golden ball is rather slim. Diego Forlan chances is also slim as he is not really a flamboyant player and does his job rather efficiently. Germany two nominees in Oezil and Schweinstiger both have outstanding touranment but again Golden Ball winner usually come from the team that entered the final and not team playing the third-fourth palyoff match. Therefore, it is down to Iniesta, Villa, Xavi, Robben and Sneijder. My money is on Sneijder because he can created and scored. He is also currently the joint top scorer alongside David Villa in the world cup with five goals. Remember the last World Cup, Zidane (playmaker) won the Golden Ball therefore i think Sneijder is in with a serious shot. Xavi have completed the most pass among all the player in the the world cup but he had not scored which will handicap him in the running of the award. Iniesta is still not a finished article yet. Robben had an outstanding season with FC Bayern but he did not start the first two games of the touranment which will count against him. Villa had again porved that he is one for the big touranment and he together with Sneijder are current top scorer of the touranment. But when is the last time that a striker won the Golden Ball, Ronaldo form Brazil in 1998 World Cup 12 years old. Therefore i foresee the streak of striker not winning the golden ball will continue when Sneijder was named Golden Ball Winner for World Cup 2010.
As for Golden Boot, there is current four contender in the running. David Villa from Spain and Wesley Sneijder from Netherlands are current joint top scorer of the tournament. 2006 World Cup Golden Boot winner Klose together with Uruguay Diego Forlan is one back with four goals. I see the golden boot winner to score six goals. I think Forlan will score twice in the third and fourth place playoff to claim the golden boot. I also think he will share with Sneijder who will score the winning goal in the world cup final against spain.
PLEASE NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ARE THE ASSUMPSTIONS AND PREDICTIONS MADE BY KER CHUAN HAO, ELVIN AND DO NOT REPRESENT THE VIEWS OF FIFA OR ANY FOOTBALL ORGANISATION. IT IS DEEPLY REGRETTED IF THE VIEWS OFFENDED ANYONE IN ANY WAYS AND SINCERE APOLOGIZES IN ADVANCE. ALL THE VIEWS AND ASSUMPTIONS ARE MADE CORRECT AS AT 10 JULY 2010, 2139 HRS.
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Uruguay vs Germany
World Cup Talkpoint
Uruguay vs Germany
Two time World Cup winner Uruguay faced three time champion Germany in the third and fourth placed match. Uruguay have their star striker Luis Suarez back from supsension while Thomas Muller back from suspension. Both players are vital to their respective team and their susepnsion in the semi-final have contributed to their semi-final defeat to a certain extend. Germany have some problem during the week when some of their player is down with flu. Lahm and Podolski are the names mentioned that is down with flu. If the reports are true, then Urugauy might spring a surprise here. Germany Miroslav Klose is struggling with a back problem and if he starts this game and score a goal, he will tied Brazilian Ronaldo record 15 goals in world cup final. And with the the golden boot is still up for grab, Klose might start the match and Germany might create chance for Klose to score one or even a couple to surpass Ronaldo match. Uruguay Diego Forlan is also in contention with the golden boot with four goals maybe Uruguay will also create chance for him to score. The previous eight third-fourth playoff in the world cup have seen 3 or more goals scored therefore it point to a high-scoring game. Germany who was involved in 2006 World Cup third and fourth playoff match and beat Portugal 3-1. Paul the octopus, who have correctly predicted Germany match correctly since the group stages of this World cup have pointed to a German victory. Since he predicted Germany to win, the odds for Germany have shorten as punters are going in for Germany. I hoped Paul the octopus is wrong here, i see Uruguay pulling off a shock victory.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Uruguay vs Germany
Two time World Cup winner Uruguay faced three time champion Germany in the third and fourth placed match. Uruguay have their star striker Luis Suarez back from supsension while Thomas Muller back from suspension. Both players are vital to their respective team and their susepnsion in the semi-final have contributed to their semi-final defeat to a certain extend. Germany have some problem during the week when some of their player is down with flu. Lahm and Podolski are the names mentioned that is down with flu. If the reports are true, then Urugauy might spring a surprise here. Germany Miroslav Klose is struggling with a back problem and if he starts this game and score a goal, he will tied Brazilian Ronaldo record 15 goals in world cup final. And with the the golden boot is still up for grab, Klose might start the match and Germany might create chance for Klose to score one or even a couple to surpass Ronaldo match. Uruguay Diego Forlan is also in contention with the golden boot with four goals maybe Uruguay will also create chance for him to score. The previous eight third-fourth playoff in the world cup have seen 3 or more goals scored therefore it point to a high-scoring game. Germany who was involved in 2006 World Cup third and fourth playoff match and beat Portugal 3-1. Paul the octopus, who have correctly predicted Germany match correctly since the group stages of this World cup have pointed to a German victory. Since he predicted Germany to win, the odds for Germany have shorten as punters are going in for Germany. I hoped Paul the octopus is wrong here, i see Uruguay pulling off a shock victory.
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World Cup Talkpoint-Quarter-Final Review
World Cup Talkpoint
Quarter-Final Review
Knockout stage typically should be a cagey affair but for this World Cup, the knockout round see quite a number of goals and alot of drama. Remember in 2006, four quarter-final tie only produced six goals with one goalless draw and two matches going to penalties shootout. But this world cup yield ten goals from four quater final tie with only one going to the lottery of the penalty shootout.
The tie of the quarter-final in my opinon is the Germany- Argentina game. Three Time World Cup winner Germany thrash two time champion Argentina 4-0 with a brace from Klose, one goal each from Muller and Friedrich. Klose is now one goal away from breaking Brazilian Ronaldo of 15 World Cup goal. Both sides name unchanged squad but i thought Diego Maradona should have scarified Tevez for a midfielder. But full credit to Maradona for sticking to the attacking line-up. Argentina was one of the team looking to win the touranment by playing beautiful football but they fell short. Germany book a date with regining European Champion Spain. Remember Spain beat Germany 1-0 in the final of Euro 2008. Revenge is on the card and both sides still have a majority of players from the 2008 final.
Spain beat Paraguay 1-0 in a drama filled match where both keeper made penalty save each. David Villa again scoring the all-important goal in the 83rd minutes. David Villa who had joined Barcelona have again showed his goal-scoring ability and look odds-on to claim the golden boot award.
Earlier Quarter-final tie saw Holland eliminated five time champion Brazil in a come from behind 2-1. Felipe Melo the villian for Brazil as he was acountable for his team defeat and his reckless red card which really cost his team dear. Brazilian Coach Dunga resigned in the aftermath of the match. I seriously question his decision to take Felipe Melo to South Africa ahead of Stars like Ronaldinho and Pato. Melo had a disappointing season with Juventus and was booed reguarly by his own Juve supporters. It had been a fall from grace for Melo who in the summer of 2009, were one of the hottest properties with teams like Juventus and Arsenal leading to chase his signature.
Uruguay beat Ghana 4-2 on penalties after both team played out a 1-1 at the end of extra-time. It will be remember of the great save by Luis Suarez in the last minute of extra-time. Only that he was not a goalkeeper and was sent off in the process. Ghana missed the resulting penalty and lose the penalty shootout and miss the chance to rewrite history for continent Africa.
So it is Holland vs Uruguay in the first Semi-final and Germany vs Spain in the second semi-final.
Would we see a Holland vs Spain final or Holland-Germany or Uruguay-Germany or Uruguay- Spain. Your guess is as good as mine.
Remember whichever team who win the world cup will go down in the history books as the winner of the first world cup to be staged in Continent Africa.
Would we see Holland or Spain winning their first World Cup crown. Especially for Holland who had two runners-up heart-break. Or will it be Spain who had just broken their Quarter-final curse eremge vicorious in the grandest stage of world soccer after their Euro 2008 sucesses.
Or will it be former champion who will rolled back their glory years and reclaim their title they once held. Remember Uruguay and Germay have won World Cup held in the year ending with “0”. Uruguay who had won both their world crown in the year ending “0” in 1930 and 1950. Germany a three-time champion have won in 1990. Will they reclaim the title they last win 20 years ago.
Let's us enjoy the drama that will unfold in the Holland vs Uruguay and Germany vs Spain semi-final ties who will be aired in free to air channel 5. So for most of us who did not subscribe to Singtel or Starhub extortion World cup package and have to settle to watch pervious round of match at Community Center, MacDonalds, Coffee Shops and Pubs or watch the online streaming of poor quality. Let's tune in to Channel 5 and enjoy the semi-final at the comfort of your home.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Quarter-Final Review
Knockout stage typically should be a cagey affair but for this World Cup, the knockout round see quite a number of goals and alot of drama. Remember in 2006, four quarter-final tie only produced six goals with one goalless draw and two matches going to penalties shootout. But this world cup yield ten goals from four quater final tie with only one going to the lottery of the penalty shootout.
The tie of the quarter-final in my opinon is the Germany- Argentina game. Three Time World Cup winner Germany thrash two time champion Argentina 4-0 with a brace from Klose, one goal each from Muller and Friedrich. Klose is now one goal away from breaking Brazilian Ronaldo of 15 World Cup goal. Both sides name unchanged squad but i thought Diego Maradona should have scarified Tevez for a midfielder. But full credit to Maradona for sticking to the attacking line-up. Argentina was one of the team looking to win the touranment by playing beautiful football but they fell short. Germany book a date with regining European Champion Spain. Remember Spain beat Germany 1-0 in the final of Euro 2008. Revenge is on the card and both sides still have a majority of players from the 2008 final.
Spain beat Paraguay 1-0 in a drama filled match where both keeper made penalty save each. David Villa again scoring the all-important goal in the 83rd minutes. David Villa who had joined Barcelona have again showed his goal-scoring ability and look odds-on to claim the golden boot award.
Earlier Quarter-final tie saw Holland eliminated five time champion Brazil in a come from behind 2-1. Felipe Melo the villian for Brazil as he was acountable for his team defeat and his reckless red card which really cost his team dear. Brazilian Coach Dunga resigned in the aftermath of the match. I seriously question his decision to take Felipe Melo to South Africa ahead of Stars like Ronaldinho and Pato. Melo had a disappointing season with Juventus and was booed reguarly by his own Juve supporters. It had been a fall from grace for Melo who in the summer of 2009, were one of the hottest properties with teams like Juventus and Arsenal leading to chase his signature.
Uruguay beat Ghana 4-2 on penalties after both team played out a 1-1 at the end of extra-time. It will be remember of the great save by Luis Suarez in the last minute of extra-time. Only that he was not a goalkeeper and was sent off in the process. Ghana missed the resulting penalty and lose the penalty shootout and miss the chance to rewrite history for continent Africa.
So it is Holland vs Uruguay in the first Semi-final and Germany vs Spain in the second semi-final.
Would we see a Holland vs Spain final or Holland-Germany or Uruguay-Germany or Uruguay- Spain. Your guess is as good as mine.
Remember whichever team who win the world cup will go down in the history books as the winner of the first world cup to be staged in Continent Africa.
Would we see Holland or Spain winning their first World Cup crown. Especially for Holland who had two runners-up heart-break. Or will it be Spain who had just broken their Quarter-final curse eremge vicorious in the grandest stage of world soccer after their Euro 2008 sucesses.
Or will it be former champion who will rolled back their glory years and reclaim their title they once held. Remember Uruguay and Germay have won World Cup held in the year ending with “0”. Uruguay who had won both their world crown in the year ending “0” in 1930 and 1950. Germany a three-time champion have won in 1990. Will they reclaim the title they last win 20 years ago.
Let's us enjoy the drama that will unfold in the Holland vs Uruguay and Germany vs Spain semi-final ties who will be aired in free to air channel 5. So for most of us who did not subscribe to Singtel or Starhub extortion World cup package and have to settle to watch pervious round of match at Community Center, MacDonalds, Coffee Shops and Pubs or watch the online streaming of poor quality. Let's tune in to Channel 5 and enjoy the semi-final at the comfort of your home.
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World Cup 2010 Talkpoint - QF 3, QF 4
World Cup Talkpoint
QF 3 - Argentina vs Germany
The only quarter final tie at this World cup where two former champion faces each other. Argentina vs Germany is worthy of the final itself. Both countries have actually met in the Grand Final of two successive world cup back in 1986 and 1990. Argetina beat Germany back in 1986 to win the crown while Germany got their revenge and snatch the crown away in 1990. Argentina is 2 time champion (1978, 1986) while Germany is three time champion (1954, 1974, 1990), This also also the repeat of the quarter final of 2006 World Cup where Germany defeat Argentina 4-2 on penalties after both teamsplayed out a 1-1 after extra time. Ugly scenes marred the aftermath of the 2006 tie. Hopefully no such scene this time round. Both team are scoring goals, therefore expect some goals in this match. Argentina have their attacking trio in top form with current World Cup top scorer Higuain, two goal tevez and current world player of the year Lionel Messi. Germany also have their main attackers in scoring form namely Klose, Podolski and Muller. All three scored in the round of 16 demolition of England. Therefore both teams have plenty of firepower up front. Argentina were the favorites and odds-on to win the tie and maybe the world cup after the elimation of world top ranked Brazil. But their defence had not really been tested in the touranment. Their center defender Martin Demichelis who plays in German League for Bayern Munich looks shaky in the touranment. Maybe his Bayern team mate and Germany Chief Striker Klose could exploit this weakness in Argentina. I see Germany taking this game in 90 mins.
QF 4- Paraguay vs Spain
Regining European Champion Spain will take on Surprise pacakge Paraguay in the last of the Quarter Final and this is the only quarter final tie at this world cup where there features no former champion. Spain best showing in the world cup was in 1950 where they finish fourth. Paraguay are having their best run ever in the world cup. Squad-wise Spain are streets ahead of Paraguay. Spain have qulaity all over the pitch from Casillas to Puyol to Xavi to David Villa. There is no doubt that on paper Spain have the stronger squad. But tou never win matches on paper, England and France find out the hard way. The team needs to perform during the course of the match. Paraguay would hope that Roque Santa Cruz still have gifts on his back to deliver to the Paraguay's faithful. I always enjoyed watching underdog creating fairytale run. Recent World Cup have seen unfancied team going all the way to the semi-final. In 1998, unfancied Croatia went all the way to the semi-final. In 2002, both Turkey and South Korea stunned the world by both reaching semi-final. Therfore, i think this year could be Paraguay who will stunned the world by reaching the semi-final at the expense of Spain. I take Paraguay to edge out Spain,
QF 3 - Argentina vs Germany
The only quarter final tie at this World cup where two former champion faces each other. Argentina vs Germany is worthy of the final itself. Both countries have actually met in the Grand Final of two successive world cup back in 1986 and 1990. Argetina beat Germany back in 1986 to win the crown while Germany got their revenge and snatch the crown away in 1990. Argentina is 2 time champion (1978, 1986) while Germany is three time champion (1954, 1974, 1990), This also also the repeat of the quarter final of 2006 World Cup where Germany defeat Argentina 4-2 on penalties after both teamsplayed out a 1-1 after extra time. Ugly scenes marred the aftermath of the 2006 tie. Hopefully no such scene this time round. Both team are scoring goals, therefore expect some goals in this match. Argentina have their attacking trio in top form with current World Cup top scorer Higuain, two goal tevez and current world player of the year Lionel Messi. Germany also have their main attackers in scoring form namely Klose, Podolski and Muller. All three scored in the round of 16 demolition of England. Therefore both teams have plenty of firepower up front. Argentina were the favorites and odds-on to win the tie and maybe the world cup after the elimation of world top ranked Brazil. But their defence had not really been tested in the touranment. Their center defender Martin Demichelis who plays in German League for Bayern Munich looks shaky in the touranment. Maybe his Bayern team mate and Germany Chief Striker Klose could exploit this weakness in Argentina. I see Germany taking this game in 90 mins.
QF 4- Paraguay vs Spain
Regining European Champion Spain will take on Surprise pacakge Paraguay in the last of the Quarter Final and this is the only quarter final tie at this world cup where there features no former champion. Spain best showing in the world cup was in 1950 where they finish fourth. Paraguay are having their best run ever in the world cup. Squad-wise Spain are streets ahead of Paraguay. Spain have qulaity all over the pitch from Casillas to Puyol to Xavi to David Villa. There is no doubt that on paper Spain have the stronger squad. But tou never win matches on paper, England and France find out the hard way. The team needs to perform during the course of the match. Paraguay would hope that Roque Santa Cruz still have gifts on his back to deliver to the Paraguay's faithful. I always enjoyed watching underdog creating fairytale run. Recent World Cup have seen unfancied team going all the way to the semi-final. In 1998, unfancied Croatia went all the way to the semi-final. In 2002, both Turkey and South Korea stunned the world by both reaching semi-final. Therfore, i think this year could be Paraguay who will stunned the world by reaching the semi-final at the expense of Spain. I take Paraguay to edge out Spain,
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NS Call-Up
I have received the letter from my NS unit which is HQ Tradoc (SAF Wargame Center). They have notified me that i have been called up for In-Camp Training from 27 September 2010 – 1 October 2010. I actually did not want to defer this ICT but because the call-up is during my school semester and the idea of missing a whole week of lessons in university is something i did want to risk. If they have called me up to served the ICT in August, i would have jumped at the chance to go back. It is beause i would be going back to Pasir Laba Camp which is similar surronding to me. I have stationed in PLC for most part of my NSF service term (1year 11 month) therefore i was glad that for my ICT, i will be going back PLC.
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World Cup Talkpoint - Uruguay vs Ghana
World Cup Talkpoint
Is Ghana being cheated?
Two time World Cup winner Uruguay are into the semi-final of the World Cup Semi-final for the first time sine 1970. They have beaten Ghana 4-2 on penalties after draing 1-1 after extra time. But the talking point will be the handball by Luis Suarez during extra time that prevented Ghana from winning in extra tine and allegations of cheating.
Myth: Ghana was cheated of a place in the semi-final of the world cup by the hand of Uruguay's Luis Suarez.
Fact: Uruguay Luis Suarez DID handed the ball but he got his deserts in getting his marching orders and a penalty to the opposing team which is Ghana. This is pure instincts. It is within the laws of the game. Players who prevent a certain goal by using their hand will get a red card and a penalty to the oppostion team. So there is no injustice in this case, Ghana missed the resulting penalty and a chance to re-write history. THIS IS A FACT. Nobody cheated Ghana a place in the semi-final, Asamoah Gyan missed the resulting penalty. This is also a fact. They got chance to put things right in the penalty shootout but they missed two penalties in the shootout while Uruguay miss only one penalty to claim their place in the semi-final. There is no injustice but tough luck on the part of Ghana, But Ghana run into Quarter-final will still put them in history as Continent Africa best run. They will be remmbered alongside Cameroon team of 1990 and Senegal team of 2002 as Africa only three team that make it to the last eight of the world cup. Meanwhile, Uruguay can look forward to their semi-final against Holland but must play the match without suspended key player Luis Suarez.
Is Ghana being cheated?
Two time World Cup winner Uruguay are into the semi-final of the World Cup Semi-final for the first time sine 1970. They have beaten Ghana 4-2 on penalties after draing 1-1 after extra time. But the talking point will be the handball by Luis Suarez during extra time that prevented Ghana from winning in extra tine and allegations of cheating.
Myth: Ghana was cheated of a place in the semi-final of the world cup by the hand of Uruguay's Luis Suarez.
Fact: Uruguay Luis Suarez DID handed the ball but he got his deserts in getting his marching orders and a penalty to the opposing team which is Ghana. This is pure instincts. It is within the laws of the game. Players who prevent a certain goal by using their hand will get a red card and a penalty to the oppostion team. So there is no injustice in this case, Ghana missed the resulting penalty and a chance to re-write history. THIS IS A FACT. Nobody cheated Ghana a place in the semi-final, Asamoah Gyan missed the resulting penalty. This is also a fact. They got chance to put things right in the penalty shootout but they missed two penalties in the shootout while Uruguay miss only one penalty to claim their place in the semi-final. There is no injustice but tough luck on the part of Ghana, But Ghana run into Quarter-final will still put them in history as Continent Africa best run. They will be remmbered alongside Cameroon team of 1990 and Senegal team of 2002 as Africa only three team that make it to the last eight of the world cup. Meanwhile, Uruguay can look forward to their semi-final against Holland but must play the match without suspended key player Luis Suarez.
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World Cup Talkpoint - England
World Cup Talkpoint
England knocked out in the Second Round
Do you seriously think England deserved to be in the quarter final of the world cup ahead of Germany just because of that disallowed goal. No way. England was outplayed by Germany for much of the match barring the few controversial minutes where England scored through Matthew Upson and the goal that was never given by Frank Lampard. My verdict is Germany deserved the victory and referee did not decided the match results. Yes, that was a bad mistake form the match officials. It was a goal but Germany scored FOUR times in the match. Where is the England defence? Especially the centre defense. John Terry must take a lot of flak for his perfromance, he should be the one marshalling his defense but what has he done in the tournament? Publicly questioning your coach decision in the media? That is stupid. How many team have taken the earlier flight home due to internal fighting/inharmony. Remember France? Fabio Capello should have send John Terry home for questioning his authority before this game. There is no two ways about it.
Another villian is Jamie Carragher. Not his wasn’t the culpurit for the match. But for him to accept the call-up for the World Cup. He wan’t there in the qulaifying to help England through. I must admit that I should applause Paul Scholes who refused the call-up because he think he was robbing another player chance (who had helped England qualify) of representing England in the world cup. Jamie Carragher had just had one of the poorest season in a Liverpool shirt and to select him ahead of people who had helped England qualify ie Matthew Upson still remain a myth to me. Jamie Carragher should never have played in the tounament. I seriously think after Rio Ferdinand was injured and Ledley King was injured in the US match, Matthew Upson should be selected for the remaining group stage and formed an understanding with John Terry. But Capello decision to start Carragher for the match against Algeria was one decision that I could not comprehend till today. And he was booked for the both the US and Algeria game and was suspended for the Slovenia game where Upson played for the first time in the tourament.
Third point- Goalkeeper. I must admit that Capello should have made a firm stand before the tourament and select his no.1. And not tinker with your no.1 during the tourament. He started with Robert Green in the first match. Yes, Green make a bad mistake for the US game in the first game. But I thought Capello should stand by his decision and start with Green throughout the touranment although I must admit that I am disappoint he did not start with David James in the first game despite giving him the number one shirt. I am a big fan of James and was happy that he was selected for the second game against Algeria and in the process became the oldest debutant in the World Cup proper.
Fourth. England Striker Mr. Wayne Rooney. People might think this has suspision of biasness and I admit as much because Wayne Rooney had just his best ever season In a Manchester United Shirt. You know that you are in trouble when your top striker is firing blanks and your top-scorer featured a center-back in Mattew Upson. Wayne Rooney has failed to delivered in consective BIG stage, he was sent off in Euro 2008. Therefore, Mr. Rooney might have saved his best form for his club.
What Could be done for the European 2012 Qulaifier (My Opinion)
Goalkeeper – For the Euro 2012 qualifier, please groom your potential No.1 . David James should be hanging up his gloves after the world cup. Robert Green, I am sorry but I think after your high profile blunder against US, your chance of being the No.1 is quite slim. I seriously think Joe Hart should be given the chance during the qualifier. And hopefully the EPL teams starts to play more English Keeper.
Defender- I think Rio Ferdinard despite missing the World Cup 2010 will have a major part to play in the qulaifier of Euro 2012. I think John Terry shoud be dropped from England for publicly questioning Capello during World Cup 2010. He had shown in numerous occasion now that he is too big-headed and put himself more important than England. And that is not the case. He had a poor world cup and should pay the price. Glen Johnson and Ashley Cole should continue in the respective full back position. Please don’t call-up Jamie Carragher again, he is over the hill and should make way. Ledley King? I think his fitness is a real cause for concern and must be given serious thought before calling him up. His club mate Michael Dawson should be given his break.
Midfielder- Both Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard should have one more major touranment left in them. And certain starter for the Euro 2012 Qualifier. But I think other places are still up for grabs. Joe Cole, James Milner , Aaron Lennon, Gareth Barry, Michael Carrick should have some part to play in the qulaifier. Time to give Tom Huddlestone a chance maybe?
Striker- Let’s say goodbye and thank you to the services to the national team to Emile Heskey. Heskey just could not scored or can he? He might have already played his last game for England in World Cup 2010. Wayne Rooney should spearhead England attack for the Euro 2012 qualifier, there is no two ways about it. I expect Jermain Dofoe, Peter Crouch, Theo Walcott to play some part in the qualifier. Did I say just say please give Bobby Zamora and Gabriel Agbonlahor a chance?
So please Capello or the next England Manager, please get rid of people who will publicly question your authority and hopefully English Premier League teams starts to play more English player. Are you listnening Mr. Arsene Wenger, Sir Alex Ferguson, Mr. Carlo Anceoletti and Mr. Roy Hodgson?
Please note: This article is the modest view of ELVIN KER and does not represent the view of English FA or its representatives. Any inaccuracy is deeply regreted.
England knocked out in the Second Round
Do you seriously think England deserved to be in the quarter final of the world cup ahead of Germany just because of that disallowed goal. No way. England was outplayed by Germany for much of the match barring the few controversial minutes where England scored through Matthew Upson and the goal that was never given by Frank Lampard. My verdict is Germany deserved the victory and referee did not decided the match results. Yes, that was a bad mistake form the match officials. It was a goal but Germany scored FOUR times in the match. Where is the England defence? Especially the centre defense. John Terry must take a lot of flak for his perfromance, he should be the one marshalling his defense but what has he done in the tournament? Publicly questioning your coach decision in the media? That is stupid. How many team have taken the earlier flight home due to internal fighting/inharmony. Remember France? Fabio Capello should have send John Terry home for questioning his authority before this game. There is no two ways about it.
Another villian is Jamie Carragher. Not his wasn’t the culpurit for the match. But for him to accept the call-up for the World Cup. He wan’t there in the qulaifying to help England through. I must admit that I should applause Paul Scholes who refused the call-up because he think he was robbing another player chance (who had helped England qualify) of representing England in the world cup. Jamie Carragher had just had one of the poorest season in a Liverpool shirt and to select him ahead of people who had helped England qualify ie Matthew Upson still remain a myth to me. Jamie Carragher should never have played in the tounament. I seriously think after Rio Ferdinand was injured and Ledley King was injured in the US match, Matthew Upson should be selected for the remaining group stage and formed an understanding with John Terry. But Capello decision to start Carragher for the match against Algeria was one decision that I could not comprehend till today. And he was booked for the both the US and Algeria game and was suspended for the Slovenia game where Upson played for the first time in the tourament.
Third point- Goalkeeper. I must admit that Capello should have made a firm stand before the tourament and select his no.1. And not tinker with your no.1 during the tourament. He started with Robert Green in the first match. Yes, Green make a bad mistake for the US game in the first game. But I thought Capello should stand by his decision and start with Green throughout the touranment although I must admit that I am disappoint he did not start with David James in the first game despite giving him the number one shirt. I am a big fan of James and was happy that he was selected for the second game against Algeria and in the process became the oldest debutant in the World Cup proper.
Fourth. England Striker Mr. Wayne Rooney. People might think this has suspision of biasness and I admit as much because Wayne Rooney had just his best ever season In a Manchester United Shirt. You know that you are in trouble when your top striker is firing blanks and your top-scorer featured a center-back in Mattew Upson. Wayne Rooney has failed to delivered in consective BIG stage, he was sent off in Euro 2008. Therefore, Mr. Rooney might have saved his best form for his club.
What Could be done for the European 2012 Qulaifier (My Opinion)
Goalkeeper – For the Euro 2012 qualifier, please groom your potential No.1 . David James should be hanging up his gloves after the world cup. Robert Green, I am sorry but I think after your high profile blunder against US, your chance of being the No.1 is quite slim. I seriously think Joe Hart should be given the chance during the qualifier. And hopefully the EPL teams starts to play more English Keeper.
Defender- I think Rio Ferdinard despite missing the World Cup 2010 will have a major part to play in the qulaifier of Euro 2012. I think John Terry shoud be dropped from England for publicly questioning Capello during World Cup 2010. He had shown in numerous occasion now that he is too big-headed and put himself more important than England. And that is not the case. He had a poor world cup and should pay the price. Glen Johnson and Ashley Cole should continue in the respective full back position. Please don’t call-up Jamie Carragher again, he is over the hill and should make way. Ledley King? I think his fitness is a real cause for concern and must be given serious thought before calling him up. His club mate Michael Dawson should be given his break.
Midfielder- Both Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard should have one more major touranment left in them. And certain starter for the Euro 2012 Qualifier. But I think other places are still up for grabs. Joe Cole, James Milner , Aaron Lennon, Gareth Barry, Michael Carrick should have some part to play in the qulaifier. Time to give Tom Huddlestone a chance maybe?
Striker- Let’s say goodbye and thank you to the services to the national team to Emile Heskey. Heskey just could not scored or can he? He might have already played his last game for England in World Cup 2010. Wayne Rooney should spearhead England attack for the Euro 2012 qualifier, there is no two ways about it. I expect Jermain Dofoe, Peter Crouch, Theo Walcott to play some part in the qualifier. Did I say just say please give Bobby Zamora and Gabriel Agbonlahor a chance?
So please Capello or the next England Manager, please get rid of people who will publicly question your authority and hopefully English Premier League teams starts to play more English player. Are you listnening Mr. Arsene Wenger, Sir Alex Ferguson, Mr. Carlo Anceoletti and Mr. Roy Hodgson?
Please note: This article is the modest view of ELVIN KER and does not represent the view of English FA or its representatives. Any inaccuracy is deeply regreted.
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World Cup 2010 Talkpoint - Prediction of Winner
The “hot” Question for this month will be who would win Soccer World Cup 2010. Who will be the first winner of the world cup to be staged in the Africa continent. Will we might see a first-time winner? Or will it be a team who had done it before snatching the crown back? Your guess is as good as mine. I think we might see a first time winner.
QF 1 - The first of the quarter final had just ended, Holland defeated five time champion (1958,1962, 1970, 1994, 2002) Brazil 2-1 in a come from behind victory.
QF 2 - The second Quarter final will see two-time Champion Uruguay (1930,1950) takes on Africa Continent last serving nation Ghana whose apperance in this Quarter final had been their best showing yet.
QF 3- Third Quarter final is the most intriguing of all the tie and the only tie between two former Champions. Three time Champion (1954, 1974, 1990) Germany takes on old foes two time champion (1978, 1986) Argentina. It is also the re-match of the World Cup final of both 1986 and 1990 where Argentina won the title in 86 while Germans had their revenge and took the title in 1990.
QF 4 - The last of the quarter final will be the only tie where there is no former world champion. Spain takes on Paraguay, For Spain there have only reached one World Cup Semi final (1950) in their hisory while Paraguay is making their maiden bow in the quarter final of the world cup.
There would fear that there will be four South America team in the hat for the semi-final draw but will Brazil defeat in QF 1, the possibility is already out but there might be thre South American represetative in the semi final. One of the possible reason for the domination of South American nation is that part of match for this World Cup had been played in high altitude and all of the South American nation had been playing matches in the qualifying rounds. South American also had one of the toughest qulaifying campign as compared to other continent, Think Bolivia can thrash Argentina 6-1 and not qualify for the world cup proper. The South American nation are playing eath other in qualifying while other continent nation are playing teams like San Marino, Farore Island and all sorts of lowly ranked teams.
There might be 2 former champion in the hat of the World Cup. QF 3 (germany or Argentina will ensure that there is at least one former champion in the semi final draw) But Uruguay must win the QF 2 to make the scenario of 2 former world champion to hold true.
There might be as many as 3 nations that have not won the world cup in the hat of the semi-final. Holland and the winner of QF 4 between Spain and Paraguay have also ensured two nations that have never won the nation are in the hat of the semi-final. Ghana must beat Uruguay later in QF 2 for this scenario to hold true,
No European nation have won the world cup outside the their own continent. This might chage as there might be as many as three nation in the semi-final three. But Germany and Spain must emerge victorious in their QF 3/ QF 4 tie.
Brazil is the only country that had won world cup outside their own continent. (Euro-Sweden 1958, Japan/South Korea 2002). As written above, European team might changed this record or even their South American neighbour Agentina, Uruguay and Paraguay might change this record.
No African nation had reahed the semi-final of the world cup. This might change if Ghana beat Uruguay.
This is the Fifth world cup to be staged in the year ended with “0”. the four world cup with year ended “0” are 1930, 1950, 1970, 1990. Coincidentally, two former champion in the year ended “0” are still in contention of winning the world cup. Uruguay (1930 & 1950), Germany (1990) are still in contention. Winner of 1970 World Cup Winner Brazil had just been eliminated.
In conclusion, there is a 50-50 chance of a former champion taking the title. As there is already two nations that have no won the world cup in the hat of the semi-final draw (Holland and either spain or Paraguay). Maybe we will see a nation that have never won the world cup lift the cup high into the key at the end of the World Cup.
Please note this article and all the Assumptions are made Correct As at 3 July 2010 0215 Hrs,
QF 1 - The first of the quarter final had just ended, Holland defeated five time champion (1958,1962, 1970, 1994, 2002) Brazil 2-1 in a come from behind victory.
QF 2 - The second Quarter final will see two-time Champion Uruguay (1930,1950) takes on Africa Continent last serving nation Ghana whose apperance in this Quarter final had been their best showing yet.
QF 3- Third Quarter final is the most intriguing of all the tie and the only tie between two former Champions. Three time Champion (1954, 1974, 1990) Germany takes on old foes two time champion (1978, 1986) Argentina. It is also the re-match of the World Cup final of both 1986 and 1990 where Argentina won the title in 86 while Germans had their revenge and took the title in 1990.
QF 4 - The last of the quarter final will be the only tie where there is no former world champion. Spain takes on Paraguay, For Spain there have only reached one World Cup Semi final (1950) in their hisory while Paraguay is making their maiden bow in the quarter final of the world cup.
There would fear that there will be four South America team in the hat for the semi-final draw but will Brazil defeat in QF 1, the possibility is already out but there might be thre South American represetative in the semi final. One of the possible reason for the domination of South American nation is that part of match for this World Cup had been played in high altitude and all of the South American nation had been playing matches in the qualifying rounds. South American also had one of the toughest qulaifying campign as compared to other continent, Think Bolivia can thrash Argentina 6-1 and not qualify for the world cup proper. The South American nation are playing eath other in qualifying while other continent nation are playing teams like San Marino, Farore Island and all sorts of lowly ranked teams.
There might be 2 former champion in the hat of the World Cup. QF 3 (germany or Argentina will ensure that there is at least one former champion in the semi final draw) But Uruguay must win the QF 2 to make the scenario of 2 former world champion to hold true.
There might be as many as 3 nations that have not won the world cup in the hat of the semi-final. Holland and the winner of QF 4 between Spain and Paraguay have also ensured two nations that have never won the nation are in the hat of the semi-final. Ghana must beat Uruguay later in QF 2 for this scenario to hold true,
No European nation have won the world cup outside the their own continent. This might chage as there might be as many as three nation in the semi-final three. But Germany and Spain must emerge victorious in their QF 3/ QF 4 tie.
Brazil is the only country that had won world cup outside their own continent. (Euro-Sweden 1958, Japan/South Korea 2002). As written above, European team might changed this record or even their South American neighbour Agentina, Uruguay and Paraguay might change this record.
No African nation had reahed the semi-final of the world cup. This might change if Ghana beat Uruguay.
This is the Fifth world cup to be staged in the year ended with “0”. the four world cup with year ended “0” are 1930, 1950, 1970, 1990. Coincidentally, two former champion in the year ended “0” are still in contention of winning the world cup. Uruguay (1930 & 1950), Germany (1990) are still in contention. Winner of 1970 World Cup Winner Brazil had just been eliminated.
In conclusion, there is a 50-50 chance of a former champion taking the title. As there is already two nations that have no won the world cup in the hat of the semi-final draw (Holland and either spain or Paraguay). Maybe we will see a nation that have never won the world cup lift the cup high into the key at the end of the World Cup.
Please note this article and all the Assumptions are made Correct As at 3 July 2010 0215 Hrs,
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