Football Reform - Why FIFA Should Support Nigeria

By Joseph Ezie Efoghor

World football history can never be complete without Nigeria, because of her great exploits in the soccer world. The African giant has achieved what so many countries (developed and underdeveloped) have not been able to achieve. FIFA therefore needs to support her on the steps she has taken to reform the game of soccer and make her national teams a force to reckon with again.

The recent performances of Nigerian teams in both continental and world football have been appalling, considering the nation's rating and previous achievements in both male and female football. For instance, the Nigerian Golden Eaglets was the very first team in the world to win the U-16 world cup (China '85); they have now won a total of three editions, and also played in three other finals.

The U-20 national team has also played in the final in 2 editions (Saudi '89 and Netherlands 2005), and staged the greatest comeback in the U-20 history, where they came back from a 4-0 deficit to beat the USSR on penalty kicks. The U-23 team became the first African side to win an Olympics gold medal (Atlanta '96), after beating Brazil and Argentina in the semi final and final respectively.

The Super Eagles participated in the FIFA world cup for the first time in USA '94, and got voted as the most entertaining team, after treating the world to great soccer artistry. They were even rated 5th best team in the world (FIFA ranking). So far, the Super Eagles have won 2 African Nations' cup titles (1980 and 1994), 4 silver medals (1984, 1988, 1990 and 2000), and 7 bronze medals.

The Female national team (The Falcons) has won 5 consecutive African Women Championship titles (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004 and 2006); participated in all Women world cups till date, and also participated in all female Olympics football competitions. They even got to the quarter finals of the USA '99 female world cup, where they were eventually edged out by the Samba girls of Brazil. The female U-20 has also been to all the female U-20 world cups.

The country has also hosted 2 nations' cup tournaments (1980 and 2000); hosted the world U-20 championship (1999), and the world U-17 (2009), and did remarkably well as host.

However, the fortunes of the Nigerian national teams dwindled recently; in 2008, the Super Eagles got their worst Nations' cup outing in Ghana, where they failed to win silverware for the first time since 1984. The U-20 team failed to get beyond the second round in Egypt (2009); while the U-17 failed to qualify for the African championship, having been knocked out by little known Benin Republic in the qualifiers (They only participated in the world cup as host in 2009).

Our female team (The Falcons) lost the last edition of the African women championship to Equatorial Guinea; and they even failed to reach the final.

In South Africa 2010, the Super Eagles failed to advance beyond the group stage, losing to Greece and Argentina, thereby making Greece win a world cup match for the first time. The performance of the team was less than impressive and has actually drawn condemnation from soccer fans worldwide.

The world soccer governing body therefore needs to support the effort being made by the Nigerian government to reform her football, instead of declaring a war against the nation. We understand tournaments would not be exciting without Africa's best team; we should at the same time remember it would be ridiculous if we participate and lose scandalously. It makes sense therefore for the country to go back to the draw board for sometime to try to fashion a way to improve the fortunes of her teams.

When they have fully reorganized themselves, they would come out more entertaining, more result-oriented and better focused. They would add colours to FIFA organized tournaments and help attract more fans, which would translate to better earnings for FIFA. Africa would be happy to see Nigeria bounce back and win more trophies for her.

Joseph Ezie Efoghor is a sports analyst and professional nurse with years of practical experience. He writes on variety of topics which you may find beneficial to you. For more on his write-ups visit http://efoghorsportsarena.blogspot.com

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Foreigners Give Germany 4-0 Victory Over Australia

By Gianni Truvianni

Germany with the help of foreign players defeated Australia by a score of 4-0 in a performance which I would qualify as solid but hardly brilliant yet in the typical fashion of German football which is efficient and consistent; did manage an impressive victory. As for Australia though they did have a clear opportunity 3 minutes in to the game, it did not take them long to fall behind on the score board when Podolski (Polish born) scored Germany's first goal in the seventh minute of the game. Germany would then go on to get their second when 25 minutes in to the game, Miroslav Klose (also Polish born) scored his first goal in this world cup which makes him not only one of a few players to score in three world cups but gives him a total of 11 world cup goals. This number placing him in a tie with Hungary's Kocsis for fifth place on the all time goal scorers list in world cup history.

The half however despite German domination would end with Germany only leading by two zero. As in all reality a third goal would have come if not for Australia's Neil who cleared the ball just as it was about to go in for what would have been Germany's third in the first half.

The second half got underway with some controversy, as the ball clearly did strike the hand of a German player inside the penalty box (similar like it did in Mexico's match against South Africa) yet the referee ruled it accidental. Germany however did continue to attack and it would be at the 67 minute mark of the game that a third goal would come from Muller; who with a perfect shot off the bar managed to score his first goal of the tournament. It was then that Germany secure in their win and with three points in hand got their fourth goal just two minutes later when Brazil born Cacau scored his first goal of the tournament. This goal coming on Cacau's second touch of the ball which he delivered to perfection in to the Australian net.

In conclusion, I would say that Germany was solid and did what they had to do to get a good result and should have no problems going through to the next round though all is possible. As for Australia, in all honesty I would say that they did not play as badly as the result might indicate but will have to do their utmost for a win against Ghana, who will be undoubtedly be looking for a victory which would pretty much seal Australia's fate; as well as qualify them in to the next round.

In a footnote, I find it strange that in four of the eight matches which have been played so far; a goal was scored within the first 7 minutes of the game. This in and of itself being something which I do not think has happened before in any other world cup though this I declare not with certainty.

My name is Gianni Truvianni, I am an author who writes with the simple aim of sharing his ideas, thoughts and so much more of what I am with those who are interested in perhaps reading something new. I also am the author of the book entitled New York's Opera Society which is now available on Amazon.

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Lionel Messi Or Diego Maradona - Who is the Greatest Footballer of All Time?

By Dan Fresh

Lionel Andrés Messi has been making all the headlines in the soccer world recently, he is undoubtedly the best footballer in the world at the moment, but such is the media obsession with the 22 year old genius from Rosario, Argentina, that some pundits are actually starting to say that Messi is now the greatest player of all time. Is this possible? Or is this just media hype?

There is no doubting that Messi has achieved an awful lot in terms of club football at such an early age. He was nominated for several FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or nominations by the tender age of 21, and then won both at the age of 22. Messi's playing style, skill and ability have drawn many comparisons to fellow countryman, Diego Maradona, who has himself declared Messi as his "successor". However, can we seriously consider Messi to be a better player than the Argentinean legend?

Let us look at the facts. Diego Maradona also had a tremendous club football career, for Boca Juniors, Barcelona and in particular, Napoli. It was at Napoli that he elevated the team to the most successful era in their history. Led by Maradona, Napoli won their only Serie A Italian Championships in 86/87 and then in 89/90. They also came second in 87/88 and 88/89, as well as winning the Coppa Italia in 87, the UEFA Cup in 89 and the Italian Supercup in 90. Also Maradona was the top scorer in Serie A in 87/88.

Meanwhile, although Messi is winning every trophy in sight with Barcelona, it is arguable that they would do so anyway whether he was in the team or not. This is possibly the greatest club side that there has ever been and includes two of the other top 5 players in the world, in Xavi and Iniesta. However good Messi has been for Barcelona, he has not had the impact that Maradona had at Napoli.

Although at club level, there is not much in it between the two Argentinean geniuses, that is not the case at international level. Messi's record is average to say the least when he plays with Argentina, whereas Maradona's record with Argentina was second to none. Maradona won the World Cup in 1986 with a very average side, putting in unbelievable performance after performance. He then took an even worse team to the final in 1990, although they ended up losing to Germany.

Yes, Messi is the best player in the world. Yes, he is still young and who knows, one day he may well challenge Maradona as the greatest player ever. However, to compare Messi to Maradona at this stage is sheer nonsense and is clearly just media hype. Can we even compare him to the likes of Pele, Zidane, Cruyff and Platini at the moment? I doubt it to be honest, but World Cup 2010 could be the stage where he starts to put forward his credentials.

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Lionel Messi Secrets and Facts

By Raul Guerridos

South Africa World Cup 2010 is around the corner and fans from all over the world can't wait to watch current soccer stars go head-to-head during the much anticipated tournament. On June 11th 2010, South Africa the host country will kick-off the tournament against Mexico which will be the first game of group A which is composed by South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, and France. Although millions of fans are expected to watch the opening ceremony, many more are expected to be glued to the TV on June 12th which is the day Argentina will play its first game of the tournament against Nigeria. The reason for the increase in viewers is not because this is a classic, but because of Argentina's young star Lionel Messi.

At merely 22 years old, Lionel Messi has been named the best soccer player in the planet already and has won championships with his current team Barcelona FC.

Lionel Messi is a small mid-fielder with heart of a lion. He is only 5 feet 7 inches making his ball handling skills and noticeable lower body strength a sight for sore eyes for the hard-core soccer fans. His soccer skills are so impressive that has been compared to the Argentinean legend Diego Maradona. Messi moved to Europe with his family at an early age, and his soccer skills were developed by Barcelona FC. In the 2004-2005 Spanish soccer league (La Liga) Messi was the youngest player to debut in a team in La Liga and the youngest to score a goal in an official game in La Liga.

Although the Argentinean national soccer team struggled to qualify for this summers World Cup, all eyes will be on this team because its heart and soul is named Lionel Messi.

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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lionel-Messi-Secrets-and-Facts&id=4111992] Lionel Messi Secrets and Facts

The Italian National Soccer Team

By Brad J. Barrett

Italy are second only to Brazil when it comes to success in the FIFA World Cup, and the current side secured qualification to the 2010 tournament in South Africa on October 10th 2009 with a draw against the Irish Republic. They will be defending the crown they won in Germany in 2006.

Italy has won the World Cup four times and has given the entire soccer world some of the finest moments international soccer has ever seen.

Under the leadership of legendary manager Vittorio Pozzo the Italian national side won the first two World Cup competitions in which they competed, 1934 and 1938, so it is not unheard of for a side to successfully defend their World Cup title as the current side hopes to. They also won the tournament in 1982.

The most capped player in the history of the Italian national team is still a member of the current team. Fabio Cannavaro of Juventus will be almost 37 years old in June 2010, and has received a record 132 caps since making his debut on an international level in 1997. He was the captain of the victorious 2006 squad.

In fact many of the players from the victorious 2006 side are expected to return to World Cup action in 2010. The average age for the current Italian team members is higher than many other nations, with just 4 of the 22 players who are regular team members under the age of 25.

After the 2006 World Cup, manager Marcello Lippi decided not to renew his contract and retire from soccer management. However, under the management of his replacement, Roberto Donadini, the side faltered, failing to make it out of the quarterfinals at the 2008 European Championships. After that disappointing result, Donadini was fired and Lippi coaxed out of retirement to rebuild team morale in time for 2010, a feat he seems to have achieved rather well if their qualifying campaign is any result.

For the 2010 Cup, Italy was drawn into Group F with Paraguay, New Zealand and Slovakia. This particular group shapes up to be one of the easiest groups of the eight first-round groups, and Italy clearly has to be the favorite to finish in the top two and advance to the second round.

Brad Barrett is the founder of SoccerTools.com, a resource for all soccer fans with a current blog on US, English and World Cup soccer and reviews and information on how to buy soccer equipment such as [http://www.soccertools.com/World-Cup-2010-Jerseys/]World Cup jerseys, soccer balls and [http://www.soccertools.com/]soccer goalkeeper gloves.

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FIFA World Cup 2010 - Team Profile - Brazil

FIFA World Cup 2010 - Team Profile - Brazil
By Suresh Iyer

Brazil are the only team to have figured in every World Cup final from the time the event began, in 1930. In this year's edition, the five times champions are arguably placed in the toughest group G, along with Ronaldo-led Portugal, Drogba inspired Ivory Coast, and North Korea.

Brazil will aim to head their group, so as to meet the second team from group H, most likely, Chile. They will be tested by Ronaldo-led Portugal, and should they fail the test, will probably have to face Spain, in the second round. Incidentally, European champions Spain are the bookmakers' favourite at this world cup, and Brazil could face the prospect of an early exit. Assuming that the South Americans do head their group, and meet Chile, their strongest challenge is likely to be the Netherlands, in the quarter final, possibly followed by England in the semi-final.

Barring a 2-1 defeat by Bolivia, Brazil had an excellent campaign en route to qualifying for the 2010 finals. The 2009 Confederation Cup was the icing. Coach Dunga who is yet to announce the final squad of 23, has an embarrassment of riches, to choose from, with the likes of Luis Fabiano and Robinho in the forward line, Kaka and Luis Ramires in midfield, and Julio Cesar in goal. That a midfielder of the calibre of Ronaldinho is not assured of a place in Dunga's team is sufficient proof of Brazil's strength.

Can you blame Brazil's army of fans for licking their lips in anticipation?

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Suresh Iyer is an avid sports fan and blogger. His new blog on sports is fast becoming popular, as it is backed by comprehensive knowledge and research.

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Why You Need to Watch the 2010 World Cup

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=M_James]M James

If you're looking forward to the 2010 World Cup then you'll be getting behind your team, planning World Cup parties and generally getting excited about this most prestigious of sporting events. Even if you're not a keen football fan, you're still likely to get swept along, and take at least a passing interest.

Here's why you need to watch the 2010 World Cup.

1. There will be lots to interest you even if you're not a football fan. As the tournament is in South Africa, there's bound to be lots of amazing scenery, wildlife and other events to see before the game.

2. If you are a football fan, but you're country didn't qualify, you'll be able to watch lots of exciting players to watch, and speculate as to which players will sign for new clubs. Who will your team sign?

3. Because the time difference isn't too great, you'll be able to watch lots of matches without having to stay up late or get up early. You shouldn't need to take much time off work so that you can watch your team. This makes a change from the 2002 World Cup that was held in South Korea and Japan, and had a huge time difference.

4. There are lots of teams to support if your country didn't qualify. Perhaps you'll choose a neighbouring country, or one of the favourites for the tournament. Maybe you'll choose to support a nation based on a player who plays for your team, or on their kit.

5. There's always a nation that are plucky underdogs and do better than expected. Perhaps you'll want them to do well, or maybe they're in your country's group and you won't want them to do well.

6. This year should see the best viewing quality yet. With bigger screens and better quality TVs and improved HD streams, you'll be able to watch the games with more clarity and in more detail than ever before.

7. By going to your local bar, instead of staying at home, you'll experience lots of camaraderie, and make new friends, and enjoy the football even more.

8. If you're well organised, you can spend more time with friends and family watching the game at your local bar. Perhaps you'll also take some holiday at this time, and make the most of the World Cup.

9. You'll want to get behind your nation and support them. Perhaps the World Cup draw for the knockout stages will bring up old rivalries, or perhaps there will be some contentious decision that.

10. This year's World Cup should be best sporting event ever, and will be watched by millions of people worldwide. Because the event is in South Africa, the whole continent will have an added interest in the World Cup this year, and will inspire many people, all over the world, to start playing football.

Now you know more about why you should watch the 2010 World Cup, why not get yourself organised and watch it with your friends in your local bar?

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