tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-282072362024-03-13T14:39:50.506-04:00Sanford's Soccer NetSSN is a digest of the day's soccer/football/futbol articles with a focus on the top European leagues and the United States National Team. Below, you’ll find links to articles and video, as well as additional features and commentary. We locate the top news of the day so you can stay updated with ease.The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.comBlogger15640125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-28971732349787950342017-11-10T11:54:00.004-05:002017-11-10T11:55:20.129-05:00Onward and Upward...??<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
“Romanian gypsy cunt!!! And to actually think Northern Ireland has probably homed one of his smelly relatives!! Ungrateful twat!! Anyway onwards and upwards. <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/gawa?source=feed_text&story_id=1685059458213683" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="_5afx" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl _5afz" style="color: #4267b2; font-family: inherit; unicode-bidi: isolate;">#</span><span class="_58cm" style="font-family: inherit;">GAWA</span></span></a>”</div>
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<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/nov/10/corry-evans-wife-rant-romanian-referee" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/nov/10/corry-evans-wife-rant-romanian-referee</a></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-41766390495859937132017-11-09T10:41:00.001-05:002017-11-09T10:41:28.328-05:00Back in a limited manner...<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px;">For some reason this match was in my head last night. I remember watching it but had forgotten that it was 0-3 when the fight started. Couldn't have happened to two more lovely lads than Bowyer and Dyer. And the press conference is so good.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px;"><br /></span>The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-31269113121570116082015-10-29T09:50:00.001-04:002015-10-29T09:50:11.885-04:00Hiatus to Focus on Pitch Rivals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello! It's time to close SSN Headquarters for a spell to focus on <a href="http://www.pitchrivals.com/" target="_blank"><b>Pitch Rivals</b></a>. A few of us are working hard to get that fun site flying and that means SSN will have to take a back seat while we refocus our energy. Not to fear, SSN will be back, but for now, please follow Pitch Rivals on The Socials.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Pitch-Rivals-1006059499419020/" target="_blank">The Facebooks</a></b>. <b><a href="https://twitter.com/pitchrivals" target="_blank">The Twits</a></b>.</span></div>
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The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-10254338989619561912015-10-27T11:37:00.000-04:002015-10-27T11:37:20.801-04:00What's In Your Wallet?, Sid in Spain, Paolo in Italy, Tim in Brazil, Bournemouth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSsw4ElMIlQFKu9_VWa3WCu7-qgbW8zxM9-vZetKd2Z1-J_QEmOdQSSe5AeEg0jv6edgliRwfkeztPrNYDUjVCc9nzwAH0g4PAd6tawCkS3BZcx5Fp-Obc8EUWxbgBXNoTWoNkg/s1600/cof2_large.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSsw4ElMIlQFKu9_VWa3WCu7-qgbW8zxM9-vZetKd2Z1-J_QEmOdQSSe5AeEg0jv6edgliRwfkeztPrNYDUjVCc9nzwAH0g4PAd6tawCkS3BZcx5Fp-Obc8EUWxbgBXNoTWoNkg/s640/cof2_large.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hey now! Good Day to you! We're going to jump right into today's fray with our Scribes. Lovely.<br />
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<b>Where? South America. Who? Tim Vickery. What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.com/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2683914/gonzalo-higuain-in-for-argentina-as-martino-preps-for-brazil" target="_blank">Higuain back for Argentina but will Martino pass his Brazil test?</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Spain. Who? Sid Lowe. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/26/keylor-navas-real-madrid-manchester-united-la-liga" target="_blank">Keylor Navas has not stopped stopping shots since Real/United fax mess</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Raphael Honigstein. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/26/pierre-emerick-aubameyang-borussia-dortmund-bundesliga" target="_blank">Aubameyang rockets into the hearts of Borussia Dortmund fans</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Italy. Who? Paolo Bandini. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/26/mohamed-salah-fiorentina-roma-serie-a" target="_blank">Mohamed Salah returns to haunt Fiorentina and send Roma top of Serie A</a></b></div>
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Wow! <i>ESPN The Magazine</i> has <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2683742/how-afc-bournemouth-rose-to-the-premier-league" target="_blank">an article about Bournemouth's rise</a></b> to the top division. We should have a look, no?<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/27/9620706/someone-inside-chelseas-locker-room-would-really-like-jose-mourinho" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/26/arsenal-premier-league-title-race-manchester-united-city" target="_blank">Barney Ronay is taking a look at the Premier League situation</a></b>. He says this: <i>A settled-looking team and strong form give Arsenal reasons for cheer but Manchester City and United are better than the derby suggested and should soon hit their stride as players bed in. </i>Mike Goodman is also taking a closer look. But, <b><a href="http://grantland.com/the-triangle/premier-league-top-four-champions-league-tottenham-liverpool-leicester-southampton-chelsea/" target="_blank">he's interested in the race for fourth</a></b>.<br />
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Tuesday! Time for <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/marcotti-musings/62/post/2683606/manchester-derby-lacked-star-quality-and-woe-for-mourinho" target="_blank">Marcotti's Musings</a></b>. This week, Gab is gabbing that the Manchester derby lacked star quality, Mourinho woe, Madrid and Barca win.<br />
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OK. Matches today. We've got a bunch of tasty <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/epl/2015/10/27/9614368/capital-one-cup-2015-schedule-fixtures-scores-results-fourth-round" target="_blank">League Cup matches in England</a></b> and one match in <b><a href="http://inter.theoffside.com/2015/10/26/9617892/bologna-vs-inter-milan-preview-serie-a-round-10" target="_blank">Serie A in Italy</a></b>. And this from Alan Smith: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/26/carlos-carvalhal-sheffield-wednesday-jose-mourinho-capital-one-cup-arsenal" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Carvalhal makes Wednesday feel special after José Mourinho’s help</a>. Oh, and <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11938/10045392/stoke-to-dump-chelsea-out-of-capital-one-cup-charlie-nicholas-makes-his-predictions" target="_blank">Charlie Nicholas has some Carling Cup Predictions</a></b>, too.<br />
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Right! That'll do.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
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-SSN<br />
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<b><a href="http://nbcsoccer.com/">nbcsoccer.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-45025191129821572932015-10-26T11:39:00.001-04:002015-10-26T11:41:42.624-04:00No Goals in Manchester, Chelsea Crisis, Villa Sack Sherwood, Fiorentina Beat Roma, Súarez Hat Trick, Grant Wahl on Thiago, MLS Decision Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsT89Fs_e8VpzvEONaEGb0yFZCaXlsHeet_EG1_2JQgQL3h5Fp_VuMD01tpmF-dYV72Sxa03dVXcli2fHeU8M4AWyqqDfX0S2GvAqBbbluBCeLVb3WHEuwt6NOI7gZoUEDoBkNg/s1600/ST_20151026_SPTMOU26B_1787928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsT89Fs_e8VpzvEONaEGb0yFZCaXlsHeet_EG1_2JQgQL3h5Fp_VuMD01tpmF-dYV72Sxa03dVXcli2fHeU8M4AWyqqDfX0S2GvAqBbbluBCeLVb3WHEuwt6NOI7gZoUEDoBkNg/s640/ST_20151026_SPTMOU26B_1787928.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>"Go up there."</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>He's up there.</b></td></tr>
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Hello there! Welcome to another week. It was a fairly decent couple of days of footie, all things considered. Sadly, no goals in the BORING Manchester Derby, but there were plenty of other interesting results. Like West Ham's defeat of Chelsea. And Roma's win in Florence. Let's hit it.<br />
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<b><a href="http://calvinayre.com/2015/10/26/sports/premier-league-week-10-review-sherwood-sacked-mourinho-sent-off-and-more/" target="_blank">Premier League Review</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2683168/harry-kane-leads-premier-league-heroes-and-villains" target="_blank">Heroes & Villains</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/25/english-premier-league-notes-manchester-derby-christian-benteke-goal" target="_blank">Premier League Notes</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/26/premier-league-10-talking-points-weekend-action" target="_blank"><b>10 Talking Points From The Weekend’s Action</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/video/2683562/premier-league-in-90-seconds" target="_blank"><b>Premier League in 90 Seconds</b></a></div>
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<b>West Ham 2 - 1 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/24/west-ham-united-chelsea-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Paul Doyle at Upton Park</a></b></div>
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<b>West Ham 2 - 1 Chelsea:</b></div>
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<b>Iain MacIntosh: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2680983/pressure-grows-on-jose-mourinho-as-chelsea-problems-mount" target="_blank">Chelsea in Crisis</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester United 0 - 0 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/25/manchester-united-manchester-city-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Jamie Jackson at Old Trafford</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester United 0 - 0 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/25/wayne-rooney-manchester-united-manchester-city-derby" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at Old Trafford</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester United 0 - 0 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11662/10043590/manchester-united-0-0-manchester-city-five-talking-points" target="_blank">Five Talking Points</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester United 0 - 0 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2679128/man-united-and-man-city-play-out-dull-0-0-draw" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Liverpool 1 - 1 Southampton: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/25/liverpool-southampton-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Paul Wilson at Anfield</a></b></div>
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<b>Liverpool 1 - 1 Southampton: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2679130/liverpool-draw-southampton-1-1-as-jurgen-klopp-waits-for-win" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 1 Everton: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/24/arsenal-everton-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">David Hytner at the Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 1 Everton: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2679126/olivier-giroud-impresses-as-arsenal-beat-everton" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Sunderland 3 - 0 Newcastle: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/25/sunderland-newcastle-united-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Louise Taylor at the Stadium of Light</a></b></div>
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<b>Bournemouth 1 - 5 Tottenham: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/25/bournemouth-tottenham-hotspur-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Dominic Fifield at the Vitality Stadium</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2682458/team-of-the-weekend-led-by-harry-kane-and-laurent-koscielny" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Week</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34633824" target="_blank"><b>Garth Crooks's Team of the Week</b></a></div>
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<b>Ref Watch: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/10044392/ref-watch-dermot-gallagher-analyses-the-weekend-action" target="_blank">Dermot Gallagher analyses the weekend action</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.premierleague.com/content/premierleague/en-gb/matchday/league-table.html" target="_blank"><b>Table</b></a></div>
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Hungover today? <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2582299-la-liga-hangover-keylor-navas-a-problem-for-rafa-benitez-and-atleti-show-intent" target="_blank">Double your fun with a La Liga Hangover</a></b>. Maybe the two will cancel each other out. Oh, and here are <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-primera-division/15/blog/post/2683486/real-madrid-rely-on-navas-suarez-and-neymar-spark-barcelona" target="_blank">Five Things You Need To Know</a></b> from La Liga's weekend fun. Review? <b><a href="http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/la-liga-review-barca-go-joint-top-sociedad-buy-moyes-time" target="_blank">Here</a></b>. Really!? You want more from Spain? Geez. Fine. <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/real-madrid-assert-la-liga-authority-thanks-to-navas-102615" target="_blank">Here</a></b>.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/26/9615120/mls-playoff-schedule-set-and-sounders-vs-galaxy-will-be-hard-for-many" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></a></b></div>
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So. Villa sacked Tim Sherwood. No surprise, really. They sit bottom, they're not winning, they're far from convincing. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/25/tim-sherwood-successor-aston-villa" target="_blank">Stuart James is on the case</a></b> in Birmingham, where Sherwood's successor simply needs to keep the club up. Also taking a gander at the situation at Villa Park? <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34633698" target="_blank">Phil McNulty, that's who!</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/25/la-liga-serie-a-roundup-suarez-hat-trick-leads-barcelona/" target="_blank">La Liga & Serie A Weekend Round-Up</a></b></div>
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As mentioned above, the big match in Serie A was a big win for Roma at Fiorentina. <b><a href="http://www.chiesaditotti.com/2015/10/25/9611158/roma-fiorentina?_ga=1.17087162.2038906515.1387207408" target="_blank">Here's a Report</a></b> of that encounter. And here's your <b><a href="http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/serie-review-roma-go-top-juventus-milan-win#:hG_jeZ68jji/pA" target="_blank">Weekend Review</a></b>.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/23/thiago-alcantara-bayern-munich-barcelona-spain" target="_blank">Grant Wahl interviewed Bayern Munich's Thiago</a></b>. Read it. Enjoy. Do it.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/inside-mls/mls-roundup-new-york-red-bulls-supporters-shield-playoff-field-confirmed-102515" target="_blank">MLS Round-Up</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.oregonlive.com/mls/index.ssf/2015/10/mls_soccer_decision_day_live_s.html" target="_blank">MLS Cup Playoffs Matchups, Schedule and Final Standings</a></b></div>
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Right. So if you click on any of those MLS links just above, you'll note that MLS did something called Decision Day. It's the first time they've done it. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/25/mls-decision-day-red-bulls-supporters-shield-playoffs" target="_blank">Bird is on the case and says it went pretty well</a></b>. Ok, then.</div>
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That'll do just fine. See youz tomorrow!</div>
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Onward!!</div>
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-SSN</div>
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<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-86620516609645538992015-10-23T10:36:00.000-04:002015-10-23T10:36:06.682-04:00Manchester Derby, Celta Vigo vs. Real Madrid, West Ham vs. Chelsea, Fiorentina vs. RomaThere goes another one! Alas, SSN Headquarters has to be fumigated so we can't do a proper post today. The big ones are up above you in the subject line. City at Old Trafford is Sunday at 10:05 EDT on NBCSN.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
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-SSN<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-78280284089038838612015-10-22T11:12:00.000-04:002015-10-22T11:16:29.731-04:00Racism in Kiev, Fighting in Manchester & Anderlecht, No Goals in Paris, United Draw, City Win, Grant Wahl on Klinsmann, Manchester Derby Fever<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Coincidence? Ummm, no.</b></td></tr>
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Happy Thursday. Good times in Kiev. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/21/uefa-investigate-attack-black-fans-dynamo-kyiv-chelsea" target="_blank">This happened</a></b>. Asshats. If the powers that be are going to do anything about this crap, they need to just shut the games down. Close the stadium. No soccer for you if you've got racist shitheads attending your matches. Speaking of matches, there were a few yesterday in Champions League. Let's go...<br />
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/22/champions-league-review-cech-hulk-zenit" target="_blank"><b>Champions League Review</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/21/champions-league-real-madrid-psg-ronaldo-zlatan-de-bruyne-manchester-city-united" target="_blank"><b>Champions League Notes</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34600204" target="_blank"><b>Champions League Team of the Week</b></a></div>
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<b>Manchester City 2 - 1 Sevilla: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34129025" target="_blank">Chris Bevan at the Etihad Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester City 2 - 1 Sevilla: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/21/sevilla-europe-manchester-city-champions-league" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at the Etihad Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester City 2 - 1 Sevilla: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2671672/kevin-de-bruyne-gives-man-city-late-win-vs-sevilla" target="_blank">Three Points</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3284349/Manchester-City-charged-fans-booing-Champions-League-anthem-victory-Sevilla.html" target="_blank">City to be charged by UEFA for fans booing the Champions League anthem</a></b></div>
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<b>CSKA Moscow 1 - 1 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/21/anthony-martial-manchester-united-louis-van-gaal-cska-moscow" target="_blank">Jamie Jackson at Arena Khimki</a></b></div>
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Oh, dear. Want a Nazi doll named Bastian? <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/22/bastian-schweinsteiger-nazi-doll-sue" target="_blank">Here ya go</a></b>! Sticking with Germans, Raphael Honigstein is over there and <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2674757/bayern-relaxed-but-concern-over-pep-guardiola-remains" target="_blank">filed this interesting report</a></b> on the situation at Bayern Munich. Traditional midnight post-Champions League banquet? </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/22/9592568/a-toy-company-made-a-doll-with-bastian-schweinsteiger-in-a-nazi" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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If it's U.S. Soccer, you know Grant Wahl is on the case. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/21/jurgen-klinsmann-us-soccer-jay-berhalter-jason-kreis-vieira-nycfc" target="_blank">He's got some Insider Notes here</a></b> that might be of interest. More U.S.? <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.us/major-league-soccer/19/blog/post/2676809/is-dc-uniteds-bennyball-coming-good-in-time-for-the-playoffs" target="_blank">How about Bennyball in D.C.?</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2015/oct/22/a-guide-to-the-manchester-derby-video" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">A Guide to the Manchester Derby</span></a></b></div>
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Klopp will face the Kop for the first time today. Liverpool play at Anfield in the Europa League. Spurs, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund, and Fiorentina are all in action, as well. <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2581381-europa-league-2015-schedule-live-stream-and-tv-info-for-thursdays-matches" target="_blank">Here's a Preview</a></b>. <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/22/9589864/europa-league-week-3-match-schedule-and-how-to-watch-online" target="_blank">Here's another</a></b>.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="https://streamable.com/e/j4ju" style="height: 100%; position: absolute; width: 100%;"></iframe></div>
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And finally...<b><a href="http://blog.foxsoccer.com/post/131639058802/fans-clash-violently-in-the-streets-prior-to" target="_blank">football fans fighting</a></b>. Sevilla? Man City? Slask Wroclaw? <b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3284417/Tottenham-supporters-attacked-violent-Anderlecht-fans-Europa-League-trip.html" target="_blank">Anderlecht?</a></b> Does it matter?</div>
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Onward!!</div>
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-SSN</div>
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<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-91085245365380577332015-10-21T11:26:00.000-04:002015-10-21T11:26:49.850-04:00Arsenal Beat Bayern, Chelsea Draw, Barcelona Win, Roma Drama, PSG vs. Real Madrid, Rooney at 30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JAD7oDxCeCc/Us3ISEgrSYI/AAAAAAAAHOc/jP9dbPCCHtM/s1600/Nothing+ruins+hump+day.JPG" target="_blank">Hump Day</a></b>! Wow. Bayern Munich lost a match. How about that? Chelsea didn't win again and The Special One complained. How about that? Let's get to yesterday's Champions League action ASAP!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Manuel Neuer: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/20/manuel-neuer-save-arsenal-champions-league-bayern-video" target="_blank">The Save</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/20/champions-league-bayern-arsenal-neuer-chicharito-neymar-roma-leverkusen" target="_blank"><b>Tuesday's Champions League Talking Points</b></a></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34128978" target="_blank">Phil McNulty at the Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/20/bayern-munich-beaten-as-olivier-giroud-hands-arsenal-a-european-lifeline" target="_blank">Daniel Taylor at the Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/21/arsenal-bayern-munich-champions-league-mesut-ozil" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at the Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2671529/petr-cech-the-leader-arsenal-needed-vs-bayern" target="_blank">Iain MacIntosh at the Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/20/9576239/arsenal-bayern-munich-uefa-champions-league-2015-final-score-result" target="_blank">Three Things We Learned</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/20/arsenal-bayern-munich-champions-league-five-things" target="_blank">Five Talking Points</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 2 - 0 Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15118/10037013/arsenal-2-0-bayern-munich-five-talking-points-from-the-emirates" target="_blank">Five Talking Points II</a></b></div>
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<b>Dynamo Kiev 0 - 0 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/20/dynamo-kyiv-chelsea-champions-league-match-report" target="_blank">Dominic Fifield at the Olympic Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Dynamo Kiev 0 - 0 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2671535/chelsea-earn-a-champions-league-point-in-kiev" target="_blank">Three Points</a></b></div>
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<b>Barcelona 2 - 0 BATE Borisov: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2671601/neymar-powers-barcelona-to-champions-league-win-at-bate" target="_blank">Three Quick Thoughts</a></b></div>
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So Roma and Bayer Leverkusen drew 4 - 4. Conor Dowley has a piece on how Roma's Miralem Pjanic is finally becoming the star he was always supposed to be. <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/21/9578213/miralem-pjanic-as-roma-bayer-leverkusen" target="_blank">Read it here</a></b>.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/21/9582450/eden-hazard-reportedly-wants-to-leave-chelsea-for-real-madrid" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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Julien Laurens in in France and has this question to pose: Could Angel Di Maria and Cristiano Ronaldo reunite at PSG next year? <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2672294/could-di-maria-and-ronaldo-reunite-at-psg-next-year" target="_blank">Well, could they, Julien</a></b>?<br />
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<b>Now, then! Matches today. Here we go...</b></div>
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<b>PSG vs. Real Madrid: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/21/9582152/real-madrid-psg-2015-time-tv-schedule-champions-league-news" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester City vs. Sevilla: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34129025" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester City vs. Sevilla: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/21/9582160/manchester-city-sevilla-2015-live-stream-time-tv-schedule-champions-league" target="_blank">Preview II</a></b></div>
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<b>CSKA Moscow vs. Manchester United: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34129032" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>CSKA Moscow vs. Manchester United: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/cska-mosc-vs-man-utd/preview/351374" target="_blank">Preview II</a></b></div>
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<b>Graham Ruthven: <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2581093-manchester-uniteds-philosophy-will-suit-them-best-in-the-champions-league" target="_blank">United's Philosophy Will Suit Them Best in the Champions League</a></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Back when his hair was real...</b></td></tr>
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Ugh. We're old. Wayne Rooney is now 30. <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11667/10037387/wayne-rooney-at-30-we-look-back-on-his-14-years-as-a-pro" target="_blank">Let's look back at his career</a></b>, shall we?<br />
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Time for the <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/20/mailbag-jurgen-klinsmann-usmnt-mls-playoffs-jozy-altidore" target="_blank">Mail Bag</a></b>! Grant Wahl's addressing (oh!) The Diving German, MLS, Jozy, and more.<br />
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And finally...<b><a href="http://blog.foxsoccer.com/post/131561886512/bayern-team-bus-crashes-into-parked-car-on-way-to" target="_blank">the Bayern Munich bus crashed on the way to the match yesterday</a></b>. That's the second time in a month it's had trouble.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
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-SSN<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-32145211901028054992015-10-20T11:16:00.002-04:002015-10-20T11:16:18.210-04:00Champions League, Scribes, Stoke Beat Swansea, Jamie Vardy, Goals of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good Grief! We've loads to get through today. Sooooooo much is happening. First off, last night in Wales, Stoke continued their fine form with a 0 - 1 win thanks to a Bojan penalty. Stuart James was at the Liberty Stadium and <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/19/swansea-city-stoke-city-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">filed this report</a></b>.<br />
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Before we move on to Champions League previews, let's check in with our Scribes.<br />
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<b>Where? South America. Who? Tim Vickery. What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2672097/river-plate-face-chapecoense-in-the-copa-sudamericana" target="_blank">The Copa's David vs. Goliath battle</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Spain. Who? Sid Lowe. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/19/messi-ronaldo-la-liga-barcelona-real-madrid" target="_blank">Life doesn’t mean anything without Messi and Ronaldo? Yes, it does</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Raphael Honigstein. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/20/germany-2006-world-cup-franz-beckenbauer" target="_blank">German FA leaves too many questions unanswered over 2006 World Cup bid</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Italy. Who? Paolo Bandini. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/19/napoli-defeat-fiorentina-scudetto-worthy" target="_blank">Napoli's defeat of Fiorentina proves they can be Scudetto worthy</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Ukraine. Who? Brett Forrest: What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2664720/the-story-behind-shakhtar-donetsks-owner-rinat-akhmetov" target="_blank">Shakhtar fights to survive in the UCL, but its owner is in even more peril</a></b></div>
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Major League Soccer! <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/20/silence-is-golden-rookie-sensation-cyle-larin-quietly-realizes-the-hype-in-orlando" target="_blank">Ever heard of Cyle Larin</a></b>? Dude is a rookie and dude is tearing it up down in Orlando. More? Here are <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/oct/19/red-bulls-close-in-on-supporters-shield-while-sounders-look-for-answers" target="_blank">Five Things We Learned in MLS</a></b> over the weekend. More? <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/19/mls-power-rankings-week-33-decision-day-toronto-fc-grella-portland-timbers-playoffs" target="_blank">Power Rankings, Thoughts, and Bext XI from Bird</a></b>!<br />
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Here we go. The time is now for some teams to get their shit together if they want to advance past the Group Stage. Bayern Munich at Arsenal is grabbing the headlines, but Barcelona, Chelsea, and Roma are all in action, too. Check it:<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/who-scored-blog/2015/oct/20/champions-league-arsenal-bayern-psg-real-madrid-manchester-city-sevilla" target="_blank">Champions League Previews & Teams of the Week From Around Europe</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2580379-ultimate-guide-to-champions-league-matchday-3-five-clubs-in-last-chance-saloon" target="_blank"><b>Ultimate Guide to Champions League Matchday Three</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2671946/can-arsenal-upset-bayern-munich-5-ucl-stories-to-watch-for" target="_blank">Champions League Key Topics</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/20/uefa-champions-league-tuesday-preview-arsenal-roma-in-tough/" target="_blank">Champions League Tuesday Preview</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12037/10035404/arsenal-to-beat-bayern-munich-charlie-nicholas-champions-league-predictions" target="_blank"><b>Charlie Nicholas' Champions League Predictions</b></a></div>
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<b>Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/arsenal-vs-bay-munich/351365" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/20/9573085/bayern-munich-arsenal-2015-time-tv-schedule-news-champions-league" target="_blank">Preview II</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2015/oct/19/arsenal-bayern-munich-champions-league-video" target="_blank">Amy Lawrence's Video Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Andy Brassell: <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2580755-arsenal-must-use-bayern-munich-as-a-template-for-success" target="_blank">Arsenal Must Use Bayern Munich as a Template for Success</a></b></div>
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<b>Raphael Honigstein: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2672244/guardiola-beating-wenger-may-see-bayern-boss-review-options" target="_blank">Pep beating Wenger's Arsenal may give Bayern boss food for thought</a></b></div>
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<b>Jacob Steinberg: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/20/pep-guardiola-bayern-munich-douglas-costa-arsenal-champions-league" target="_blank">Douglas Costa peps Bayern Munich</a> </b></div>
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<b>Bayer Leverkusen vs. Roma: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2671288/dead-ball-specialists-calhanoglu-pjanic-to-put-on-ucl-show" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Dynamo Kiev vs. Chelsea: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/dynamo-kiev-vs-chelsea/351369" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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James Vardy. He's leading the Premier League in scoring. Why isn't he getting more recognition? Well, he did racially abuse a Japanese dude once. That could have something to do with it. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/20/jamie-vardy-top-goalscorer-premier-league-leicester-city" target="_blank">Stuart James digs deeper...</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/20/9573243/fifa-election-president-sepp-blatter-corruption-reform-backheel-breakfast" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/19/best-goals-week-keane-scholes-gignac-higuain" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Goals of the Week</span></a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/19/around-europe-neymar-wijnaldum-yaya-toure-ben-arfa-bayern-napoli" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Around Europe</span></a></b></div>
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And finally...<b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3276641/Jurgen-Klopp-showman-Liverpool-s-new-boss-ve-never-seen-before.html" target="_blank">more fun with Klopp</a></b>.<br />
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Good Lord! That was a lot. Get to a TV or computer this afternoon if you're able.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-35898918560471879842015-10-19T10:52:00.003-04:002015-10-19T10:52:34.531-04:00Derby d'Italia Draw, No Goals at White Hart Lane, United Win at Everton, Napoli Beat Fiorentina, Euro 2016 Qualifying Playoffs, Monday Night Football<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Howdy! Monday, friends! <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2670629/juventus-emerge-from-physical-derby-ditalia-with-a-point" target="_blank">No goals between Juventus and Inter Milan</a></b>, no goals between Spurs and Liverpool, two more goals for James Vardy, another goal for Wayne Rooney, <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34566754" target="_blank">a 324th goal for Cristiano Ronaldo</a></b>, the <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/18/new-york-red-bulls-mike-grella-fastest-goal-video" target="_blank">fastest goal in MLS history for Mike Grella</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/18/9563857/newcastle-earn-first-win-four-goals-wijnaldum-epl" target="_blank">four goals for Georginio Wijnaldum</a></b>! Let's hit it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/17/epl-notes-juergen-klopp-era-begins-liverpool" target="_blank"><b>Peter Berlin's EPL Notes</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2670531/heroes-and-villains-jose-mourinho-ander-herrera-back-in-form" target="_blank"><b>Heroes & Villains</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/19/premier-league-10-talking-points-weekend-action" target="_blank"><b>10 Talking Points From The Weekend’s Action</b></a></div>
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<b>Tottenham 0 - 0 Liverpool: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34562514" target="_blank">Phil McNulty at White Hart Lane</a></b></div>
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<b>Tottenham 0 - 0 Liverpool: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/17/jurgen-klopp-liverpool-tottenham" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at White Hart Lane</a></b></div>
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<b>Michael Cox: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/18/jurgen-klopp-liverpool-tottenham-hotspur-new-manager-premier-league-tactics" target="_blank">Klopp’s Liverpool become first team to outrun Tottenham this season</a></b></div>
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<b>Everton 0 - 3 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/17/everton-manchester-united-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Paul Wilson at Goodison Park</a></b></div>
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<b>Everton 0 - 3 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2665277/manchester-united-cruise-to-victory-at-everton" target="_blank">Three Quick Observations</a></b></div>
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<b>Michael Cox: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/tactics-and-analysis/67/post/2669155/raheem-sterling-quietly-becoming-top-class-for-man-city" target="_blank">Sterling's performances for Manchester City belie his young age</a></b></div>
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<b>Chelsea 2 - 0 Aston Villa: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2665275/chelsea-beat-aston-villa-with-ease-but-more-mourinho-drama" target="_blank">Three Quick Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Watford 0 - 3 Arsenal: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2665279/full-strength-arsenal-blow-away-profligate-watford" target="_blank">Three Quick Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2670210/team-of-the-weekend-oct-17-18" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Weekend</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34566259" target="_blank"><b>Garth Crooks's Team of the Week</b></a></div>
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Fiorentina still top Serie A despite a loss to Napoli yesterday. <b><a href="http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/article/165/10033125/italian-serie-a-weekend-results-reports" target="_blank">Here's a Serie A review</a></b>. More tomorrow with Paolo.<br />
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In Spain, Ronaldo is now Real Madrid's all-time leading scorer, and Celta Viga remain unbeaten. <b><a href="http://www.sportinglife.com/football/la-liga/news/article/256/10032730/la-liga-results-reports-saturday-october-17" target="_blank">Here's a review for La Liga</a></b>. And <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/10035025/david-moyes-should-not-be-sacked-and-barcelona-still-have-worries-says-guillem-balague" target="_blank">here's some additional Spain fun</a></b> with Balague. More tomorrow with El Sid.<br />
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/18/la-liga-serie-a-roundup-celta-vigo-go-top-juve-sit-14th/" target="_blank">La Liga & Serie A Round-Up</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34564778" target="_blank">Euro Review</a></b></div>
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The matches just keep coming! Tonight it's Swansea vs. Stoke. <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/swansea-vs-stoke/341273" target="_blank">Here's your Preview</a></b>.<br />
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We mentioned MLS up top in regards to Grella's quick goal. <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/inside-mls/mls-roundup-new-york-red-bulls-philadelphia-union-houston-dynamo-seattle-sounders-101815" target="_blank">Here's a Round-Up</a></b> of the weekend's action, where Grella's New York Energy Drink claimed the top spot in the East.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/lists/americans-abroad-fabian-johnson-borussia-monchengladbach-injury-debate-october-16-18-recap-101815#img_main" target="_blank">Americans Abroad</a></b></div>
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And finally...<b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-toe-poke/65/post/2670885/gary-neville-and-ryan-giggs-allow-hotel-squatters-to-stay" target="_blank">Giggs and Gary Neville are allowing the squatters to stay</a></b>. For now.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a> </b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-9488571590333080182015-10-16T11:15:00.002-04:002015-10-16T11:16:29.029-04:00Club Soccer Returns, Derby d'Italia, Sid Lowe on Gerard Deulofeu, Tottenham vs. Liverpool, Simon Kuper on the Dutch<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Derby d'Italia memories...</b></td></tr>
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And...there goes another one! It's Friday and we're pumped! The Klopp era gets out of the gates early tomorrow at White Hart Lane, Internazionale host Juventus, and much more!! Check it.<br />
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<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2579482-premier-league-preview-stop-the-klopp-its-jurgen-time-at-liverpool"><b>Premier League Preview</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12040/10029677/premier-league-questions-will-klopp-shine-will-city-miss-aguero"><b>Premier League Questions</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2660561/jurgen-klopp-set-for-excessive-scrutiny-on-liverpool-debut"><b>Premier League Spotlight</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/16/premier-league-10-things-to-look-out-for"><b>10 Things To Look Out For This Weekend</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/story/2665422/premier-league-team-news"><b>Team News</b></a></div>
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<b>Michael Cox: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/liverpool/364/blog/post/2664858/jurgen-klopp-the-tactician-wont-be-judged-versus-tottenham">Klopp the tactician won't be judged vs. Spurs, but as a motivator he will</a></b></div>
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<b>Everton vs. Manchester United: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/manchester-united/360/blog/post/2664296/wayne-rooney-on-wane-as-mufc-striker-prepares-for-everton">Rooney in decline vs. Barkley on the rise</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/10029426/mersons-predictions-first-game-defeats-for-jurgen-klopp-and-sam-allardyce"><b>Paul Merson's Predictions</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34506506"><b>Lawro's Predictions</b></a></div>
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Everton have a stylish young Spanish player in the form of Gerard Deulofeu. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/16/gerard-deulofeu-everton-homecoming">He and Sid Lowe had a chat</a></b>. Lovely!<br />
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Well, well, well. It would appear that <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.com/copa-america-tournament/story/2664857/copa-america-centenario-set-to-go-ahead-in-us-sources">the next Copa América will be played in the U.S.</a></b> after all. Geez.<br />
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Sticking with the U.S., it's <i>almost</i> playoff time in MLS. Here is your <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2579697-ultimate-guide-to-mls-weekend-playoff-desperation-growing-in-penultimate-week">Guide to the Weekend</a></b>.<br />
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Everyone wants to talk about Albania now that they've clinched a spot in France next summer. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/beyond-the-last-man/2015/oct/15/albania-european-football">Craig (Phil) McCracken is the latest scribe</a></b> to tackle the minnows. Enjoy.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/15/9539273/danny-ings-liverpool-acl-knee-injury-backheel-breakfast-news">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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Footie economist extraordinaire <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/netherlands/449/blog/post/2663233/netherlands-fail-euro-qualifying-and-must-start-from-scratch">Simon Kuper shall grace us with his take on the Dutch disaster</a></b>. Time to reinvent themselves, it would seem.<br />
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Italy! Serie A! <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/internazionale/110/blog/post/2664487/mauro-icardi-will-lead-inter-by-example-when-juventus-visit"><b>Juventus go to the San Siro to face Inter</b></a> in the weekend's biggie. Inter sit in second while champions Juve sit in 12th! Here are some Serie A <b><a href="http://www.goal.com/en/news/723/serie-a/2015/10/16/16346232/serie-a-talking-points-the-hunchback-of-florence-romas-fg-idiots-">Talking Points</a></b> to get you rolling.<br />
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Spain! La Liga! Here's your <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2579063-ultimate-guide-to-la-liga-weekend-real-madrid-rotations-and-table-topping-clash">Ultimate Guide to the Weekend</a></b>.<br />
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And finally...<b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3275863/Real-Madrid-fans-love-retiring-Raul-Cristiano-Ronaldo-goals-record-broken-new-Bernabeu-king.html">There's Only One Raúl</a></b>.<br />
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That'll do, that'll do. Keep it tite.<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-58219760635356524252015-10-15T10:24:00.000-04:002015-10-15T10:24:07.882-04:00Scott Murray on Liverpool History, Gentleman Ultra on Inter, Sam Kelly on Argentina, The Search for Ali Dia<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPVz2BpCxZK6Wd_z9oM0I3bfvhhDeW5ned6oFGq9w0IDYy-RTu35ZHxjUwSz9VReeAad5-8oc8ZenAvEcj1akh4R9AGI7rgF43ZB3sFXAF7IaKAzXnTpLIkhyphenhyphen_owNcWlLrNmkmw/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPVz2BpCxZK6Wd_z9oM0I3bfvhhDeW5ned6oFGq9w0IDYy-RTu35ZHxjUwSz9VReeAad5-8oc8ZenAvEcj1akh4R9AGI7rgF43ZB3sFXAF7IaKAzXnTpLIkhyphenhyphen_owNcWlLrNmkmw/s640/1.jpg" width="466" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>We're right there with you, pal.</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's all fairly quiet today as we prepare for the <b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3273923/Will-Tottenham-spoil-Jurgen-Klopp-s-Liverpool-FC-party-Alexis-Sanchez-fire-Arsenal-title.html">weekend festivities</a></b>. We're itching with excitement for Saturday's and Sunday's fixtures, but, alas, it's only Thursday. We'll begin in Liverpool where the euphoria of the Klopp arrival has been tempered by <b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3274154/Danny-Ings-ruled-SEASON-Jurgen-Klopp-s-Liverpool-FC-injuries-worsen.html">the announcement that Danny Ings is out for the season after getting crocked in training</a></b>. You feel the guy was just about to explode so it's certainly a bit of a wind out of the sails type situation all of a sudden at Anfield. Speaking of Liverpool, friend of The SSN Scott Murray over at the <i>Guardian</i> has been running some pieces to bring the USA audience up to speed - should they be unaware of certain aspects of footie history. Today, he's all Liverpool: A brief guide to … <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/oct/15/liverpool-failure-recapture-glory-days"><b>Liverpool's failure to recapture the glory days</b></a>.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u_cQek63LbY" width="560"></iframe></div>
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Back in Major League Soccer, Sebastian Giovinco continues to light things up. His sick strike last night means Toronto have made the playoffs for the first time ever. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/15/mls-recap-toronto-fc-red-bulls-fc-dallas-whitecaps">Here's a Recap</a></b> from last night.<br />
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Belgium are now tops in the <strike>SPECTRE</strike> FIFA rankings. <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/european-championship/74/blog/post/2664237/belgium-no1-in-fifa-rankings-and-ready-for-euro-2016-glory">Andy Brassell is wondering</a></b> if this generation can bag a big prize. On the flip side, without Messi, Argentina have been struggling. <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/argentina/202/blog/post/2663231/argentina-without-lionel-messi-is-going-all-wrong">Sam Kelly reports</a></b> from South America. Tim Vickery is also down there, and <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/world-cup-qualifying-conmebol/65/blog/post/2663479/five-players-who-shone-in-south-america-world-cup-qualifiers">he's going to tell us</a></b> who has been lighting up the CONMEBOL scene in World Cup 2018 qualifying. Frank Fabra, for one...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Internazionale:</b> </u><b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2015/oct/15/internazionale-the-revival-of-a-fallen-giant-video">The Revival of a Fallen Giant</a></b></span></div>
<i>Since 2007, both Internazionale and Milan have won the Champions League, the pinnacle of club competition in football. At the end of the 2015-16 season, the Champions League final will be played at the shared home of the two teams, the San Siro. But, for the first time in 60 years, neither team is playing in Europe. Richard Hall of the Gentleman Ultra attempts to find out what Inter are doing to change matters.</i><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/chelsea/363/blog/post/2662686/chelsea-top-four-struggle">Richard Jolly has an article today</a></b>. It's about Chelsea. Will they even make the Top Four? Gasp!<br />
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Ali Dia. Remember that guy? Yeah, we didn't think so. Some of the older staff members at SSN Headquarters do, however, and <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2551248-the-search-for-ali-dia-legendary-football-hoaxster-turned-houdini">some dude named Steve Menary is looking for him</a></b>.<br />
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Hey. That's it! All the previews for the weekend will be up tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-57416950502702572942015-10-14T11:39:00.003-04:002015-10-14T11:39:32.898-04:00USA=ASS, Dutch Disaster, Goals of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What a fabulous <b><a href="https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/5739341568/hABDB3582/" target="_blank">Hump Day</a></b>! The weather is glorious, the international break is OVER, and the water cooler at SSN Headquarters is so fresh and so clean. We'll begin stateside today. Specifically, Energy Drink Arena up in Jersey. The U.S. hosted Costa Rica and...lost. Can we please ditch the Diving German now? Please? The guy's a frickin' joke! Here's the fallout:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA 0 - 1 Costa Rica: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/13/usa-costa-rica-friendly-jurgen-klinsmann" target="_blank">Grant Wahl at Red Bull Arena</a></b></div>
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<b>USA 0 - 1 Costa Rica: <a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/united-states-costa-rica-jurgen-klinsmann-react-101415" target="_blank">Kyle McCarthy at Red Bull Arena</a></b></div>
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<b>USA 0 - 1 Costa Rica: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/international-friendly/match/435286/united-states-costa-rica/report" target="_blank">Report</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA 0 - 1 Costa Rica: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/blog/the-match/60/post/2662055/us-fails-to-bounce-back-from-mexico-lays-egg-vs-costa-rica" target="_blank">Three Quick Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>USA 0 - 1 Costa Rica: <a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/13/three-things-we-learned-from-the-usmnts-loss-to-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Three Things We Learned</a></b></div>
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<b>Grant Wahl: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/13/jurgen-klinsmann-struggles-how-to-fix-usa-soccer-usmnt-mexico" target="_blank">It’s time USA, Klinsmann go back to the basics</a></b></div>
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<b>Graham Parker: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/14/jurgen-klinsmann-blaming-everyone-but-himself-as-usa-continue-to-founder" target="_blank">Klinsmann blaming everyone but himself as USA founder</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/13/player-ratings-from-another-head-shaking-usmnt-loss/" target="_blank"><b>Player Ratings</b></a></div>
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Meanwhile, over in Eindhoven, the Dutch lost to the Czechs and that means they will not be in France next summer. Ouch! The loss was compounded by <b><a href="http://metro.co.uk/2015/10/13/robin-van-persie-scores-ridiculous-own-goal-during-netherlands-v-czech-republic-5438536/">this lovely own-goal</a></b> courtesy of Robin van Persie. Here's all you need to know about next summer's showcase:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Euro 2016: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/13/euro-2016-france-key-dates" target="_blank">Everything you need to know about the tournament in France</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34496764" target="_blank">Qualifiers for the tournament in France</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifiers: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/14/euro-2016-qualifiers-10-talking-points" target="_blank">10 talking points from the international action</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.us/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2661689/england-and-netherlands-lead-roles-in-heroes-and-villains" target="_blank"><b>Heroes & Villains</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Holland 2 - 3 Czech Republic: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2661258/netherlands-have-big-questions-after-missing-out-on-euro-16" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Jacob Steinberg: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/14/holland-failure-qualify-euro-2016" target="_blank">Holland’s dramatic fall from Total Football to total desperation</a></b></div>
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<b>Gabriele Marcotti: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2662788/netherlands-an-open-letter-after-dutch-fail-to-qualify" target="_blank">An open letter after the Dutch fail to qualify for Euro 2016</a></b></div>
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<b>Kevin McCauley: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/8/9275555/netherlands-turkey-euro-2016-qualifying-danny-blind-arjen-robben-injury">Why the Netherlands stink</a></b></div>
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<b>Nick Ames: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/12/albania-euro-2016" target="_blank">Albania welcomes home heroes after qualification for Euro 2016</a></b></div>
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Premier League Statistics: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/14/premier-league-statistics-chelsea-fabregas-klopp-liverpool" target="_blank"><b>The good, the bad and the ugly of the season so far</b></a><br />
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They're already involved in trying to get to World Cup 2018 down in CONMEBOL. <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/argentina-settle-for-draw-in-world-cup-qualifying-brazil-top-venezuela-match-report-recap-101315" target="_blank">Here's a wrap of yesterday's action</a></b>. Argentina drew and Brazil won.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/14/9530067/sorry-mls-fans-cristiano-ronaldo-wants-to-retire-at-real-madrid"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://screamer.deadspin.com/barcelona-fans-are-losing-their-minds-again-1736248215">Interesting piece here</a></b> on Barcelona and their kiddos not getting playing time. And some people getting upset about it. Interesting. But, we already said that.<br />
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/14/best-goals-week-ibrahimovic-long-lewandowksi-drogba-sneijder" target="_blank"><b>Goals of the Week</b></a></div>
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And finally...<b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3272276/Cristiano-Ronaldo-prolific-posting-selfie-Instagram-Sportsmail-looks-Real-Madrid-star-s-finest-work.html">Ronny is the King of the Selfie</a></b>!<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-63318951671581667272015-10-13T10:59:00.002-04:002015-10-13T10:59:49.487-04:00Big Sam in at Sunderland, Lassana Diarra, Dutch Drama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoq-Eq5lvgmn8ShJLa9LHu0h_FpBC5kcmWAEBNDeUW28ndMEaWeDljKoCB-8tN2YFBsEO6kAElc0KekLun6tuqD9ePZhZgifAS9YlYwMwIoEg-UWL_cDA5-R2Ru76e8hbn_P5XOw/s1600/2D5BEC6B00000578-0-image-a-43_1444725982915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoq-Eq5lvgmn8ShJLa9LHu0h_FpBC5kcmWAEBNDeUW28ndMEaWeDljKoCB-8tN2YFBsEO6kAElc0KekLun6tuqD9ePZhZgifAS9YlYwMwIoEg-UWL_cDA5-R2Ru76e8hbn_P5XOw/s640/2D5BEC6B00000578-0-image-a-43_1444725982915.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Good grief, people. How long will this international break go? It's been ages, it seems. The light is barely visible at the end of the tunnel, but it <i>is</i> visible. Let's see. Where to begin? Well, eveyone's favorite <b><a href="http://static.standard.co.uk/s3fs-public/styles/story_large/public/thumbnails/image/2015/10/12/10/SamAllardyce.jpg" target="_blank">gum-smacking, earplug-wearing</a></b>, leader of ankle-kickers Big Sam Allardyce is a gaffer again. <b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3270805/Sam-Allardyce-emulate-Peter-Reid-Sunderland-boss-bring-success-Premier-League-strugglers.html" target="_blank">He's up at the Stadium of Light trying to right that sinking ship</a></b>. Good luck with that.<br />
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/12/euro-2016-england-finish-perfect-ukraine-fall-into-playoffs/" target="_blank">There were matches yesterday</a></b>. There are matches today. <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/european-championship-qualifying/56/blog/post/2651979/euro-2016-qualifying-how-teams-can-make-it-to-france" target="_blank">Euro 2016 qualifiers</a></b>, chiefly. The big question is this: Will the Netherlands make it? Previews? Fine. Here:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Netherlands vs. Czech Republic: <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2578368-netherlands-vs-czech-republic-date-time-live-stream-for-euro-2016-qualifier" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Turkey vs. Iceland: <a href="http://www.albawaba.com/sport/turkey-need-win-or-draw-against-iceland-reach-euro-16-playoffs-754018" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Italy vs. Norway: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/13/9517949/italy-norway-2015-live-streaming-time-tv-schedule-euro-2016" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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It's Tuesday and that means it's time for <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/marcotti-musings/62/post/2659199/jurgen-klopp-talks-sense-and-michel-platini-must-convince" target="_blank">Marcotti's Musings</a></b>. This week, Gab is gabbing that Jurgen Klopp talks sense, Michel Platini must convince, Euro success.<br />
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/12/dust-settles-but-questions-remain-for-usmnt-klinsmanns-future/" target="_blank">The U.S. play again tonight</a></b>, but we couldn't care less. Well, perhaps if they lose and The Diving German gets the sack, we'll care. Barf. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/12/jurgen-klinsmann-fabian-johnson-usa-costa-rica-friendly" target="_blank">Grant Wahl calls him out here</a></b> for tossing Fab Johnson under the bus. The whole thing is just a complete mess.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/13/9519795/france-world-cup-veteran-arrested-in-blackmail-investigation-over" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></a></b></div>
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Lassana Diarra. Remember that guy? Word is, he's tearing it up and back in the French fold. Who new? <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2660695/lassana-diarra-is-back-with-france" target="_blank">Julien Laurens, that's who</a></b>.<br />
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That's all.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-32529613200571912202015-10-12T11:24:00.000-04:002015-10-12T11:24:03.267-04:00USA Lose to Mexico, Albania Qualify for Euro 2016, Injuries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Howdy! Not the greatest advert for CONCACAF that match, eh? Both the U.S. and Mexico were shit, frankly. We suppose that Mexico were less shit. They won the HUGE match 3-2 in extra time. Here's the fallout from the action in Pasadena, <b><a href="http://www.nbc.com/sites/nbcunbc/files/files/images/2014/9/09/140228_2751996_The_Californians_anvver_5.jpg" target="_blank">Caaaaaaaaaalifornia</a></b>:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA 2 - 3 Mexico: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/11/mexico-united-states-concacaf-cup-three-thoughts" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA 2 - 3 Mexico: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/confederations-cup-playoff/2346/blog/post/2657432/mexico-still-the-king-of-concacaf-after-classic-win" target="_blank">Three Takes</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA 2 - 3 Mexico: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/11/9495657/usa-mexico-final-score-results-2015-confederations-cup-playoff/in/9259532" target="_blank">Three Things We Learned</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Andrea Canales: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/team/mexico/203/blog/post/2657437/mexico-reclaims-the-title-of-concacaf-king-after-beating-us" target="_blank">Mexico rules again</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Brian Straus: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/11/usa-mexico-oribe-peralta-chicharito-paul-aguilar-andres-guardado-skill-concacaf-cup" target="_blank">U.S. beaten by skill it aspires to match</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Jeff Carlisle: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/confederations-cup-playoff/2346/blog/post/2657426/united-states-loss-to-mexico-about-margins-large-and-small" target="_blank">Huge tactical gulf</a></b></div>
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<b>Grant Wahl: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/11/jurgen-klinsmann-usa-mexico-concacaf-cup" target="_blank">Time to consider Klinsmann's suitability as U.S. coach</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Doug McIntyre: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/team/united-states/660/blog/post/2657429/jurgen-klinsmann-under-scrutiny-after-bad-day-for-us-soccer" target="_blank">Klinsmann under scrutiny after a day to forget for U.S. Soccer</a></b></div>
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<b>Kevin McCauley: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/11/9496293/usmnt-fans-hate-jurgen-klinsmann-because-he-wont-stop-lying" target="_blank">USMNT fans hate Klinsmann because he won't stop lying</a></b></div>
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OK, so that's done and dusted. The U.S. loss to their biggest rivals. <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/what-comes-next-for-u-s-soccer-usa-mexico-concacaf-cup-jurgen-klinsmann-101115" target="_blank">Now what</a></b>?<br />
<br />
We said it last week and we'll say it again. The biggest thing we hate about the international break is <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2659144/the-curse-of-the-international-break-hits-manchester-city" target="_blank">injuries</a></b>. Bleh.<br />
<br />
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifying: <a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/11/euro-2016-lewandowski-scores-again-albania-makes-history/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifying: <a href="http://www.espnfc.us/european-championship-qualifying/56/blog/post/2651979/euro-2016-qualifying-how-teams-can-make-it-to-france" target="_blank">How teams can make it to France</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2657446/wales-and-northern-ireland-stars-in-heroes-and-villains" target="_blank"><b>Heroes & Villains</b></a></div>
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<b>Poland 2 - 1 Ireland: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/11/poland-republic-of-ireland-euro-2016-qualifier-match-report" target="_blank">Paul Doyle at Stadion Narodowy</a></b></div>
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<b>Bosnia-Herzegovina 2 - 0 Walse: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/10/joy-in-bosnia-defeat-as-wales-make-history-to-qualify-for-euro-2016" target="_blank">Stuart James at Bilino Polje Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Finland 1 - 1 Northern Ireland: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/11/finland-northern-ireland-euro-2016-match-report" target="_blank">Andy Hunter at the Olympiastadion</a></b></div>
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<b>Paul Campbell: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/12/northern-ireland-win-euro-2016-group-joy" target="_blank">Why Northern Ireland's table-topping success deserves greater recognition</a></b></div>
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<b>James Horncastle: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/italy/162/blog/post/2658298/italy-reach-euro-2016-but-are-they-improving-under-conte" target="_blank">Italy qualify for Euro 2016 but are they improving under Conte?</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/12/9507327/barcelona-dont-have-any-money-to-spend" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></span></b></div>
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We're done.</div>
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Onward!!</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
-SSN</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-15473775869322568242015-10-09T12:07:00.000-04:002015-10-09T12:07:45.762-04:00USA vs. Mexico, Ireland Shock the Germans, Scottish Despair, Northern Irish Glory, Chile Beat Brazil, Agüero Injured as Argentina Lose<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There goes yet another one, folks. Did you know that we've been doing this in some form or fashion since 1997? Yes, right next to the water cooler at SSN Headquarters there is a cane. Speaking of needing a cane, you know what we hate about the international break? <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/10022845/international-injury-round-up-sergio-aguero-and-bastian-schweinsteiger-pick-up-problems" target="_blank">Injuries</a></b>.<br />
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Now, then. Before we look back to last night's Euro 2016 Qualifiers, let's look forward to tomorrow night's clash in <b><a href="http://l.yimg.com/os/en-US/video/video.snl.com/SNL_1624_05_The_Californians.png" target="_blank">Pasadena, Caaaaaaaalifornia</a></b>. Go!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>USA vs. Mexico: <a href="http://heavy.com/sports/2015/10/usmnt-mexico-united-states-game-match-preview-date-time-channel-location-tim-howard-jurgen-klinsmann/" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>USA vs. Mexico: <a href="http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2015/10/08/armchair-analyst-tactical-preview-usa-vs-mexico-concacaf-cup-thursday-qa" target="_blank">Tactical Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Jeff Carlisle: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/united-states/660/blog/post/2647740/clint-dempsey-jozy-altidore-dynamic-key-for-united-states" target="_blank">Dempsey-Altidore dynamic imperative for U.S. success vs. Mexico</a></b></div>
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<b>Brian Straus: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/09/usa-mexico-concacaf-playoff-usmnt-jurgen-klinsmann-confidence-for-confederations-cup" target="_blank">How important is it?</a></b></div>
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<b>Doug McIntyre: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/united-states/660/blog/post/2651208/klinsmann-on-hot-seat-as-us-prep-concacaf-cup-olympic" target="_blank">Klinsmann has much at stake</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/oct/09/usa-v-mexico-turns-into-referendum-on-a-bloodied-jurgen-klinsmann" target="_blank"><b>USA vs. Mexico turns into referendum on a bloodied Jürgen Klinsmann</b></a></div>
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<b>Ives Galarcelp: <a href="http://www.sportingnews.com/soccer/story/2015-10-09/usa-mexico-match-el-tri-dos-a-cero-preview" target="_blank">Three Keys for the USA</a></b></div>
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<b>Tom Marshall: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/team/mexico/203/blog/post/2651656/mexico-continues-to-find-ways-to-undo-their-positive-work" target="_blank">Mexico in chaos</a></b></div>
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<b>Kyle McCarthy: <a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/mexico-usa-rose-bowl-concacaf-cup-el-tri-chicharito-hernandez-jimenez-peralta-vela-options-100815" target="_blank">Who should Mexico start at forward?</a></b></div>
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And...back across the pond to the Euro stuff!<br />
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<b><u>Who has already qualified for Euro 2016?</u></b></div>
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<b>Hosts: France</b></div>
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<b>Others: Austria, Czech Republic, England, Iceland, Northern Ireland, Portugal</b></div>
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<b>Republic of Ireland 1 - 0 Germany: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/08/republic-ireland-germany-euro-2016-qualifier-report" target="_blank">Paul Doyle at the Aviva Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Republic of Ireland 1 - 0 Germany: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2653798/republic-of-ireland-record-stunning-victory-over-germany" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Northern Ireland 3 - 1 Greece: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34482434" target="_blank">Phil McNulty at Windsor Park</a></b></div>
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<b>Northern Ireland 3 - 1 Greece: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/08/northern-ireland-greece-euro-2016-qualifier-report" target="_blank">Julian Taylor at Windsor Park</a></b></div>
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<b>Henry McDonald: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/09/northern-ireland-reaching-euro-2016-feels-like-glory-days-of-1982-says-singer" target="_blank">Northern Ireland reaching Euro 2016 feels like the glory days of 1982</a></b></div>
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<b>Scotland 2 - 2 Poland: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/08/scotland-poland-euro-2016-qualifier-match-report" target="_blank">Ewan Murray at Hampden Park</a></b></div>
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<b>Scotland 2 - 2 Poland: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2653795/polands-robert-lewandowski-ends-scotlands-euro-2016-dream" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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And...back down south to the South American stuff...besides the injury to Kun, Ecuador beat Argentina and Chile beat Brazil! Tim Vickery is there and brings us up to speed <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2655148/ecuador-stun-argentina-alexis-sanchez-inspires-chile" target="_blank">here</a></b>.<br />
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Who likes Klopp? Barney Ronay, that's who! Barney says this: <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/09/jurgen-klopp-arsene-wenger-liverpool-arsenal" target="_blank">Jürgen Klopp is a modernising force in the mould of Arsène Wenger</a></b>. That's <b><a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lzbdqaQGu61qewmamo2_250.gif" target="_blank">high praise</a></b>.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/09/race-for-the-red-line-who-will-seal-the-remaining-mls-playoff-spots" target="_blank">The regular season in ending in Major League Soccer</a></b>. Who will make the playoffs? Better yet, who will <i>not</i> make the playoffs? Sticking with MLS, let's go <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/8/9470047/in-a-newly-stable-mls-life-remains-unstable-for-career-journeymen" target="_blank">Inside the Life of an MLS Journeyman</a></b>.<br />
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We posted about Victor Valdes's shitty situation at Manchester United yesterday. Today, <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2655395/victor-valdes-sad-situation-at-manchester-united" target="_blank">El Sid takes a look</a></b>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/9/9486731/fifa-president-election-may-be-delayed-sepp-blatter-suspension" target="_blank"><b>Backheel Breakfast</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2652620/international-footballs-10-greatest-rivalries" target="_blank"><b>The 10 Greatest Rivalries in International Football</b></a></div>
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We out!<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-18539395748017325992015-10-08T11:25:00.001-04:002015-10-08T11:29:50.642-04:00Klopp, FIFA Freakshow, Euro 2016 Action, Jordan Morris, Grant Wahl on USA vs. Mexico<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thursday, yo! Off we go!</div>
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Well, it's finally official. <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34469429">Jurgen Klopp is the new Liverpool gaffer</a></b>. Good luck to you, sir.<br />
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Meanwhile, <strike>SPECTRE</strike> FIFA continues to fall apart while the world watches and cheers. Yay! Fuck FIFA. Here's your lot on the evildoers...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Owen Gibson: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/08/sepp-blatter-suspended-fifa">Sepp Blatter, Michel Platini, Jérôme Valcke suspended for 90 days</a></b></div>
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<b>Gabriele Marcotti: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/2653404/blatter-and-platini-provisionally-banned-by-fifa">FIFA continues to unravel</a></b></div>
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<b>David Conn: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/08/fifa-blatter-platini-reform-election">Fifa is functionally bankrupt – the time has come for outside intervention</a></b></div>
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Matches that matter today during our Interlull. Countries from Europe attempting to make the tourny in France this summer. Here's your lot on all of that...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Euro 2016 Qualifying: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/european-championship-qualifying/56/blog/post/2651979/euro-2016-qualifying-how-teams-can-make-it-to-france" target="_blank">How teams can make it to France</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifiers: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/08/euro-2016-qualifiers-10-things">10 Things To Look Out For</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifiers: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/european-championship-qualifying/56/blog/post/2651721/euro-2016-five-things-to-watch-as-qualifiers-conclude">Five things to watch as qualifiers head to a conclusion</a></b></div>
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<b>Euro 2016 Qualifiers: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/8/9478487/4-teams-to-watch-in-euro-2016-qualifying" target="_blank">Four Teams To Watch</a></b></div>
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<b>Ireland vs. Germany: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/rep-ire-vs-germany/309114">Preview</a></b></div>
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<b>Scotland vs. Poland: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34466682">Not all about Lewandowski</a></b></div>
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<b>Jason Humphreys: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/englische-woche/2015/oct/08/germany-euro-2016-striker-muller-lewandowski">Will Germany's lack of strikers hurt them–or is it a sign of the times?</a></b></div>
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<b>Albania vs. Serbia: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/07/albania-serbia-euro-2016-qualifier-tight-security">Nick Ames in Elbasan</a></b></div>
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<b>Northern Ireland vs. Greece: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34385135">Preview</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/19692/10021046/charlie-nicholas-european-qualifiers-predictions-defeats-for-scotland-and-wales" target="_blank"><b>Charlie Nicholas's Predictions</b></a></div>
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Meanwhile, down in South America, they're already beginning the process of trying to get to the World Cup in wherever the fuck it is in 2018. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/07/conmebol-world-cup-qualifying-messi-neymar-suarez-argentina-brazil-chile-colombia" target="_blank">James Young checks in and tells us</a></b> that a lot of the stars of CONMEBOL are hurt.<br />
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Yikes. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/08/victor-valdes-locker-manchester-united-louis-van-gaal" target="_blank">Not fun being Víctor Valdés these days</a></b>, is it? Dude used to be Barcelona's starting keeper. Now he's not even allowed to see his ManU teammates.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/8/9478657/sepp-blatter-and-michel-platinis-replacements-at-fifa-are-just-as-bad" target="_blank"><b>Backheel Breakfast</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://grantland.com/features/jordan-morris-soccer-usmnt-stanford-cardinal-jurgen-klinsmann/" target="_blank">Great article here about Jordan Morris</a></b>, as well as the college vs. pro set-up. Morris is an up and comer on the USMNT who has decided to play for Stanford instead of going pro.<br />
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<b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2576711-premier-leagues-crazy-start-only-adds-to-the-competitions-intrigue" target="_blank">Jonathan Wilson is talking about the Premier League</a></b> and how its crazy start only adds to the intrigue. We agree.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/us-mens-national-team-mexico-game-usmnt-rivalry-rose-bowl-concacaf-cup-100715" target="_blank">USA vs. Mexico! Bring it!</a> </b>It <i>is</i> a <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/07/usa-mexico-rivalry-mexican-americans-concacaf-cup" target="_blank">complex rivalry</a></b>, of course.<br />
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That'll do it for today!<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/" target="_blank">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-83324366083232786152015-10-06T11:12:00.001-04:002015-10-06T11:13:31.723-04:00Klopp to the Kop?, Euro 2016, Villarreal, Insigne, USA vs. Mexico Buildup Begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Friends! Good day to you. It would appear that everyone's favorite German <strike><b><a href="http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/klopp-photobomb.jpg" target="_blank">photobomber</a></b></strike> <strike><a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2014/02/05/article-2552046-1B357CF900000578-202_634x427.jpg" target="_blank"><b>photobomber</b></a></strike> football manager Juergen Klopp is on his way to Liverpool. <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34448282" target="_blank">By the end of the week</a></b>! Or, so they say. A quick poll around SSN Headquarters reveals that most think Brenda deserved a bit more time to get over some key departures and injuries. But we're not Fenway, now are we? If it is Klopp, he'll face some massive challenges, <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34445771" target="_blank">according to Phil McNulty</a></b>. And the Premier League will get photobombs and <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12028/10019556/jurgen-klopp-in-quotes-the-best-lines-from-the-german-coach" target="_blank">great quotes</a></b>. And <b><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3261835/Jurgen-Klopp-s-10-best-celebrations-Liverpool-fans-hoping-plenty-ex-Dortmund-boss-s-touchline-antics.html" target="_blank">great celebrations</a></b>.<br />
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It's Tuesday and that means it's time to go IN DEPTH and get to the heart of the matter. It's...Scribes!<br />
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<b>Where? Spain. Who? Sid Lowe. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/villarreal-la-liga-real-madrid-athletico-barcelona-sevilla" target="_blank">Beaten Villarreal still top after pretenders to La Liga throne come and go</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Raphael Honigstein. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/05/bayern-munich-dominance-bundesliga-stuck-on-shuffle" target="_blank">Bayern Munich’s rule the one constant in a Bundesliga stuck on shuffle</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? South America. Who? Tim Vickery. What? <a href="http://www.worldsoccer.com/columnists/tim-vickery-columnists/tim-vickerys-notes-from-south-america-loss-of-key-player-a-blow-for-chile-ahead-of-brazil-test-364919" target="_blank">Loss of key player a blow for Chile ahead of Brazil test</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? South America. Who? Tim Vickery. What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2644676/vasco-da-gama-relegation-fight-brazil-attacking-jorginho" target="_blank">Vasco da Gama can avoid relegation with attack-minded boss Jorginho</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Italy. Who? Paolo Bandini. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/lorenzo-insigne-napoli-featherweight-fantasista-milan-serie-a" target="_blank">Insigne finally coming of age as Napoli’s featherweight fantasista</a></b></div>
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'Tis Tuesday and that means it's the day we check in with Gabrielle Marcotti. This week, <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/marcotti-musings/62/post/2649594/arsenal-are-genuine-title-contenders-marcotti-musings" target="_blank">Gab is gabbing about Arsenal's title credentials, unstoppable Bayern, Madrid's derby draw</a></b>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/06/euro-2016-qualifiers-who-can-still-qualify" target="_blank"><b>Euro 2016 qualifiers: Who can still reach the finals in France?</b></a></div>
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Just in case you weren't privy, there's a MEGA-MATCH coming up on Saturday in the Rose Bowl. USA vs. Mexico. CONCACAF will make a lot of money on the affair and one of the countries will go to the Confederations Cup. Mainly, though, as fans, it's about bragging rights. <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/05/usa-mexico-concacaf-cup-playoff-tactics-klinsmann-ferretti" target="_blank">Bird's got a piece today on tactical choices in the midfield</a></b>. Start to get excited, why don't you?<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/6/9461645/fabio-capello-says-jose-mourinho-is-burning-out-his-players" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></span></b></div>
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We've got to get in on Major League Soccer. Power Rankings, Reviews, Team of the Week, it's all <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/05/mls-power-rankings-week-31-sporting-kansas-city-playoffs-dc-united" target="_blank">HERE</a></b>! The Best? New York Energy Drink. The Worst? Colorado Rapids.<br />
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We out!<br />
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Onward!!<br />
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-SSN<br />
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<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-78252020539828312632015-10-05T11:20:00.000-04:002015-10-05T11:21:31.812-04:00Rodgers Sacked, Arsenal Stomp United, Bayern Stomp Dortmund, Honors Even in Madrid, Barcelona Lose, Chelsea Lose<div style="text-align: center;">
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Wow. We were excited going into the weekend and it turns out our excitement was justified. So many big stories to tackle today, but the biggest has to be <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34423344" target="_blank">the sacking of Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool</a></b>. He got the dreaded phone call after the derby draw at Goodison. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/liverpool-identity-brendan-rodgers-fsg-premier-league" target="_blank">David Conn is on the case and has his usual astute assessment</a></b> of the situation at Anfield: <i>Liverpool still suffering from an identity crisis in Premier League era...Brendan Rodgers was the latest manager to fail to emulate Anfield’s glorious past, but FSG must recognise that the infrastructure is not yet in place to return them to the highest level. </i>Right!<i> </i>Let's get going, beginning with the Premier League...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/11911660/Premier-League-review-Theo-Walcott-makes-Wayne-Rooney-look-ponderous-during-Arsenal-vs-Man-Utd.html" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Review</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/05/premier-league-playback-brendan-rodgers-gone-but-not-forgotten/" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Playback</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2575611-premier-league-hangover-rodgers-bids-farewell-jose-loses-it-arsenal-run-riot" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Hangover</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/brendan-rodgers-liverpool-premier-league-10-talking-points-weekend" target="_blank"><b>10 Talking Points From The Weekend</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/premier-league-weekend-10-things-6574738" target="_blank"><b>10 Things We Learned</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2649017/brendan-rodgers-will-be-missed-heroes-and-villains" target="_blank"><b>Heroes and Villains</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/04/epl-notes-brendan-rodgers-ousted-liverpools-manager-premier-league" target="_blank"><b>EPL Notes</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/3/9446315/epl-scores-week-8-chelsea-southampton-man-city-newcastle-saturday" target="_blank"><b>What We Learned On Saturday</b></a></div>
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<b>Everton 1 - 1 Liverpool: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/04/everton-liverpool-lukaku-earns-point-derby" target="_blank">Andy Hunter at Goodison Park</a></b></div>
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<b>Manchester City 6 - 1 Newcastle: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/03/manchester-city-newcastle-united-premier-league-match-report-sergio-aguero" target="_blank">Paul Wilson at the Etihad Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Chelsea 1 - 3 Southampton: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/03/chelsea-southampton-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Dominic Fifield at Stamford Bridge</a></b></div>
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<b>Adam Bate: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15116/10018890/jose-mourinhos-chelsea-struggles-a-problem-for-a-novice-in-failure" target="_blank">A problem for a novice in failure</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 3 - 0 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/04/mesut-ozil-arsenal-manchester-united-swagger" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at Emirates Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 3 - 0 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.espnfc.com/blog/the-match/60/post/2644472/arsenal-and-alexis-sanchez-superb-in-3-0-rout-of-man-united" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
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<b>Arsenal 3 - 0 Manchester United: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/04/arsenal-manchester-united-premier-league-five-things-we-learned" target="_blank">Five Things We Learned</a></b></div>
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<b>Jamie Jackson: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/bastian-schweinsteiger-manchester-united-michael-carrick-arsenal" target="_blank">Schweinsteiger exposed alongside Carrick against pinball wizards</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2648295/team-of-the-weekend-oct-3-4" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Weekend</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34440132" target="_blank"><b>Garth Crooks's Team of the Weekend</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.premierleague.com/content/premierleague/en-gb/matchday/league-table.html" target="_blank"><b>Table</b></a></div>
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Down in Spain, the Madrid Derby finished 1 - 1. Here are <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.com/blog/the-match/60/post/2644475/atletico-madrid-subs-make-real-madrid-rue-lack-of-initiative" target="_blank">Three Things</a></b> about that match. <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2575845-after-real-madrid-and-atleticos-derby-draw-we-know-as-little-as-when-we-began" target="_blank">More questions than answers</a></b>, really. Anyhoo, we'll go in-depth tomorrow with El Sid. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2015/1004/732409-la-liga-review/" target="_blank">Weekend Review for La Liga</a></b>.<br />
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Over in Italy, Fiorentina are on top thanks to an easy win over Atalanta. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/serie-review-fiorentina-out-front-napoli-thump-milan" target="_blank">Weekend Review for Serie A</a></b>. We'll go in-depth tomorrow with Paolo.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/5/9453777/usmnt-squad-confederations-cup-playoff-usa-vs-mexico-2015" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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Here are <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/05/more-distractions-than-attractions-as-seattle-and-la-cancel-each-other-out" target="_blank">Five Things We Learned</a> </b>in Major League Soccer over the weekend.<br />
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<u>USA Roster For The Mexico Match</u></div>
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<b>Goalkeepers:</b> Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)<br />
<b>Defenders:</b> Ventura Alvarado (Club America), DaMarcus Beasley (Houston Dynamo), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders FC), Fabian Johnson (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Michael Orozco (Club Tijuana), Tim Ream (Fulham), Jonathan Spector (Birmingham City)<br />
<b>Midfielders:</b> Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto FC), Jermaine Jones (New England Revolution), Danny Williams (Reading), DeAndre Yedlin (Sunderland), Graham Zusi (Sporting KC)<br />
<b>Forwards:</b> Jozy Altidore (Toronto FC), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders FC), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes), Gyasi Zardes (LA Galaxy)<br />
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And finally...<b><a href="http://thesefootballtimes.co/2015/10/01/melilla-and-ceuta-the-spanish-clubs-based-in-morocco/" target="_blank">Spanish clubs based in Morocco</a></b>.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
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-SSN<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-43824728384903259262015-10-02T11:16:00.002-04:002015-10-02T11:16:51.694-04:00Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid, Everton vs. Liverpool, Arsenal vs. Manchester United, Sevilla vs. Barcelona, Bayern München vs Borussia Dortmund<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NI317VULgbhpul5NG1VGkGXAOuNuLI_oolY0I8LDvCI1WAppQl4TEgGFCQIO4AYTY_G7ZVrm_lCEjaA2mgAADGjAWNs0SQutIFX0ss4V9sbn37JFyuybUgAgGWTRSTjz_78icg/s1600/141163340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NI317VULgbhpul5NG1VGkGXAOuNuLI_oolY0I8LDvCI1WAppQl4TEgGFCQIO4AYTY_G7ZVrm_lCEjaA2mgAADGjAWNs0SQutIFX0ss4V9sbn37JFyuybUgAgGWTRSTjz_78icg/s640/141163340.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Anfield and Goodison Park. Liverpool. England.</b></td></tr>
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There goes another one, Peeps! And just look at what's on deck for the weekend. Look at those matches! The Liverpool Derby, the Madrid Derby, Arsenal/United, <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/2/9398849/borussia-dortmund-bayern-munich-bundesliga-tactics-stats-analysis-thomas-tuchel" target="_blank">Number One vs. Number Two in the Bundesliga</a></b>, it just keeps going! Throw in Milan vs. Napoli and PSG vs. Marseille, and you'd be forgiven for thinking that the Footie Gods were playing some sick joke. But, no. 'Tis all true. Welp, we'd better get to it. As always, we'll begin with the Premier League. <br />
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<b><a href="http://soccer.nbcsports.com/2015/10/01/week-8-top-premier-league-headlines-arsenal-vs-united-merseyside-derby/" target="_blank">Headlines</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/story/2643748/premier-league-team-news" target="_blank"><b>Team News</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/02/premier-league-10-things-to-look-out-for-this-weekend" target="_blank"><b>10 Things To Look Out For</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2643442/rodgers-wenger-mourinho-among-prem-managers-under-pressure" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Spotlight</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15197/10012744/super-sunday-promises-to-be-quite-a-day-says-ed-chamberlin" target="_blank">Super Sunday</a></b></div>
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<b>Kevin McCauley: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/1/9432901/liverpool-everton-2015-merseyside-derby-brendan-rodgers" target="_blank">Merseyside Derby will define the future for Liverpool & Rodgers</a></b></div>
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<b>Everton vs. Liverpool: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11662/10012135/everton-v-liverpool-five-questions-ahead-of-the-merseyside-derby" target="_blank">Five questions ahead of the Merseyside Derby</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/oct/02/manchester-united-rivals-premier-league" target="_blank"><b>A brief guide to…the history behind Manchester United and Arsenal's rivalry</b></a></div>
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<b>Michael Cox: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2642704/manchester-united-or-arsenal-closer-to-premier-league-title" target="_blank">Are Manchester United or Arsenal closer to a Premier League title</a>?</b></div>
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<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/10013386/mersons-predictions-arsenal-man-city-and-chelsea-to-claim-much-needed-wins" target="_blank"><b>Paul Merson's Predictions</b></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34403907" target="_blank"><b>Lawro's Predictions</b></a></div>
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There were some matches in Europe last night. The Europa League is in full swing. <b><a href="http://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/europa-league-review-liverpool-held-marseille-stunned-slovan#:TFI1tLzpGpi_pA" target="_blank">Here's a review of all the action</a></b> where Liverpool could only produce a draw at Anfield and Fiorentina continued to impress. And why note <b><a href="https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/europa-league-top-five-talking-215811607.html" target="_blank">Five Talking Points</a></b>, too?<br />
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<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/02/mls-weekend-preview-sounders-and-galaxy-ready-for-center-stage" target="_blank"><b>Major League Soccer Weekend Preview</b></a></div>
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Over in Spain, <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/barcelona/83/blog/post/2643403/can-injury-hit-barcelona-handle-sevilla-in-la-liga" target="_blank">Barcelona face a tricky trip down to Sevilla</a></b> on Saturday, while league leaders Atlético host city rivals Real on Sunday. Here's a <b><a href="http://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/la-preview-madrid-derby-dominates-huge-la-liga-weekend#:Jcf4Vt1cq4SgLA" target="_blank">Weekend Preview</a></b> for La Liga.<br />
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In Italy, Fiorentina will look to continue their fine form when they host Atalanta. Have you read about <b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/1/9412213/serie-a-ridiculously-fun-again-inter-fiorentina-chievo-juventus-milan-napoli" target="_blank">how fun Serie A is again</a></b>?<br />
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Gosh. You want more on the ineptitude of the Premier League in Europe? <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2572027-what-has-happened-to-the-premier-league-in-europe" target="_blank">Here</a></b>.<br />
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Woop! Hit the TVs and enjoy the weekend.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-15373894317060018822015-10-01T10:49:00.002-04:002015-10-01T10:50:05.783-04:00City, United, and Juventus Win, Atlético Madrid Shocked by Benfica, Sporting KC Win U.S. Open Cup<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S1AxyCrZMZxATD7Z_2vFQEv_cTH4FagK4bB28V_PPtmqa5PQFCX-krImzyByQkBUzeY2rIrcNAzdUltbzyKnm-JgK8G04Awzu7hUoCeQigbF1uNOgo-kiV0nHt6llDFQJ5vNeQ/s1600/g_simeone400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S1AxyCrZMZxATD7Z_2vFQEv_cTH4FagK4bB28V_PPtmqa5PQFCX-krImzyByQkBUzeY2rIrcNAzdUltbzyKnm-JgK8G04Awzu7hUoCeQigbF1uNOgo-kiV0nHt6llDFQJ5vNeQ/s640/g_simeone400.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>"Hmmm. How much more black could my outfit be? The answer is none. None more black."</b></td></tr>
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Good Day. Let's jump right into yesterday's action in Europe, shall we?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/01/champions-league-review-luis-suarez-barcelona" target="_blank"><b>Champions League Review</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2573674-why-barcelona-are-on-course-to-defend-the-champions-league" target="_blank"><b>Why Barcelona Are on Course to Defend the Champions League</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Borussia Mönchengladbach 1 - 2 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/30/manuel-pellegrini-sergio-aguero-manchester-city-borussia-monchengladbach" target="_blank">Jamie Jackson at Borussia Park</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Borussia Mönchengladbach 1 - 2 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2637047/man-city-beat-gladbach-thanks-to-sergio-aguero-late-penalty" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Borussia Mönchengladbach 1 - 2 Manchester City:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Manchester United 2 - 1 Wolfsburg: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/30/manchester-united-wolfsburg-champions-league-match-report" target="_blank">Daniel Taylor at Old Trafford</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Manchester United 2 - 1 Wolfsburg: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2637048/juan-mata-and-anthony-martial-make-difference-for-man-united" target="_blank">Three Observations</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Juventus 2 - 0 Sevilla: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2641208/juventus-excellent-in-europe-again-thanks-to-sami-khedira" target="_blank">Khedira Masterclass</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Atlético Madrid 1 - 2 Benfica: <a href="http://www.intothecalderon.com/2015/9/30/9428573/match-report-atletico-madrid-1-2-benfica?_ga=1.252022794.2038906515.1387207408" target="_blank">Match Report</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2641764/ronaldo-and-lewandowski-in-ucl-totw" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Week</b></a></div>
<br />
Robin van Persie. Remember that guy? <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/01/fenerbahce-robin-van-persie-turkey-super-lig" target="_blank">He's in Turkey</a></b> and things aren't going so well.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/gallery/2015/sep/30/bayern-munich-oktoberfest-in-pictures" target="_blank">More Fun With Bayern Munich At Octoberfest</a></b></div>
<br />
Barney Ronay has yet another wonderful piece for us to enjoy today. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/oct/01/robert-lewandowski-bayern-munich-pep-guardiola-lionel-messi" target="_blank">He says this</a></b>: Guardiola’s evolution unlocks the brilliance of Robert Lewandowski.<br />
<br />
Tottenham's Dele Alli has earned an England call. <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15122/10012987/dele-allis-england-call-up-charting-the-tottenham-youngsters-rise" target="_blank">Who is this guy</a></b>?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/1/9432151/arsenals-opponents-say-they-dont-want-to-defend" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
<br />
Sporting KC defeated Philly Union last night to claim the U.S. Open Cup. Graham Parker was at PPL Park and <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/30/us-open-cup-final-sporting-kc-break-union-hearts-with-shoot-out-victory" target="_blank">filed this report</a></b>. Brian Straus was there, too. He <b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/10/01/us-open-cup-final-sporting-kansas-city-philadelphia-union-winning-culture" target="_blank">filed this report</a></b>.<br />
<br />
Gosh. That's fine, no?<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-21959948798843881222015-09-30T11:01:00.002-04:002015-09-30T11:01:41.289-04:00Arsenal Lose, Chelsea Lose, Barcelona Win, Bayern Win, U.S. Open Cup Final<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBYgqpbjjsngB8AgksZerMyITA9-rwXzXqhLSLavGud3YsHdzER9Xd3aCV8yckynWp-LcCKntcAHPXbyeJfO52Ekab0W7LCtFvBbibACv_4llLfinjM5LGMxVP7Fho2OmZ7QyKQ/s1600/arsenal-v-olympiacos-uefa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBYgqpbjjsngB8AgksZerMyITA9-rwXzXqhLSLavGud3YsHdzER9Xd3aCV8yckynWp-LcCKntcAHPXbyeJfO52Ekab0W7LCtFvBbibACv_4llLfinjM5LGMxVP7Fho2OmZ7QyKQ/s640/arsenal-v-olympiacos-uefa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Gosh! We said it was <b><a href="https://iwanticewater.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/hump-day-madness-35.gif?w=469&h=363" target="_blank">Hump Day</a></b> yesterday and nobody noticed. Oh, well. Anyway, it's now <b><a href="http://www.lovethispic.com/uploaded_images/153644-Trying-To-Get-Over-Wednesday.jpg" target="_blank">Hump Day</a></b> and we're awash in Champions League and the continued ineptitude displayed by Premier League sides. Arsenal lost the must-win home match against The Greeks, and Chelsea couldn't snare anything from Porto. Let's hit the fallout:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Champions League: <a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/09/29/champions-league-arsenal-lewandowski-bayern-munich-barcelona-suarez-chelsea" target="_blank">Lewandowski on fire; Chelsea, Arsenal on notice</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal 2 - 3 Olympiakos: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34382802" target="_blank">Phil McNulty at the Emirates</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal 2 - 3 Olympiakos: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/29/arsenal-olympiakos-champions-league" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at the Emirates</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal 2 - 3 Olympiakos: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2637042/arsenal-face-champions-league-humiliation" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal 2 - 3 Olympiakos: <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3254025/Arsenal-2-3-Olympiacos-Five-things-learned-Dropping-Petr-Cech-bench-mistake-Theo-Walcott-fire.html" target="_blank">Five Things We Learned</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Gabriele Marcotti: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/arsenal/359/blog/post/2639607/arsenal-suffer-champions-league-loss-owe-fans-answers" target="_blank">Arsenal owe fans answers on aims in Champions League, EPL</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal and Chelsea: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/30/arsenal-chelsea-champions-league" target="_blank">Why they imploded in the Champions League</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Phil McNulty: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34396301" target="_blank">Why are English teams struggling?</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Porto 2 - 1 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/29/jose-mourinho-chelsea-porto-champions-league" target="_blank">Dominic Fifield at Estadio do Dragao</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Porto 2 - 1 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2637045/chelsea-lose-at-porto-and-jose-mourinho-under-pressure" target="_blank">Three Thoughts</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Barcelona 2 - 1 Bayer Leverkusen: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2637046/barcelona-resilient-in-champions-league-comeback-vs-bayer" target="_blank">Three Quick Thoughts</a></b></div>
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Today, both Manchester clubs are in action, as well as both Madrid sides. <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/manchester-united-wolfsburg-champions-league-preview-gladbach-manchester-city-092915" target="_blank">Here is a Preview for today's matches</a></b>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/30/best-goals-week-balotelli-bebe-drogba-robert-lewandowski" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Goals of the Week</span></b></a></div>
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The U.S. Open Cup Final is tonight. It's Philly vs. K.C. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/inside-mls/lamar-hunt-us-open-cup-philadelphia-union-sporting-kansas-city-final-preview-093015" target="_blank">Preview</a></b>. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/30/us-open-cup-final-philadelphia-union-sporting-kc" target="_blank">Preview II</a></b>. In case you're not familiar, here is some info on the tournament, courtesy of the Wikipedias:<br />
<br />
<i>The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, commonly known as the U.S. Open Cup, is a knock-out cup competition in American soccer. It is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the U.S. and the world's third-longest-running open soccer tournament. The 102nd edition, to be held in 2015, is expected to be contested by 91 clubs from the three professional leagues sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation, including Major League Soccer, the North American Soccer League, and the United Soccer League, and amateur clubs in the earlier rounds of the tournament after qualifying through their leagues. The overall champion earn a total of $250,000 in prize money, while the runner-up receives $60,000 and the furthest-advancing team from each lower division league receive $15,000. In addition, the tournament winner qualifies for the group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League, first represented by 2007 winners New England Revolution in the inaugural 2008–09 edition. The competition was first held during the 1913–14 season as the National Challenge Cup, with Brooklyn Field Club winning a trophy donated by Thomas Dewar for the promotion of American soccer. It was renamed to the U.S. Open Cup in 1990 and then dedicated to MLS owner Lamar Hunt by the United States Soccer Federation in 1999. The 101st and most recent champions of the competition, Seattle Sounders FC, were awarded their fourth Dewar Cup after defeating the Philadelphia Union 3–1 after extra time in the 2014 final.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZolqzzsDqJnBHvtNHgIB7gU8q6NlsL3xUN1MYCLIQMqVLLz-7ep7Jsx1c-usiybxHQ_72TO_bIQwJNNCrdIGwvS1hxfcYL94rwm5APOttDW6NBW49gnNpx6UTA9LcNAjFkoirg/s1600/article-3254837-2CEF7E3C00000578-142_964x372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZolqzzsDqJnBHvtNHgIB7gU8q6NlsL3xUN1MYCLIQMqVLLz-7ep7Jsx1c-usiybxHQ_72TO_bIQwJNNCrdIGwvS1hxfcYL94rwm5APOttDW6NBW49gnNpx6UTA9LcNAjFkoirg/s640/article-3254837-2CEF7E3C00000578-142_964x372.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>It's that time of the year again...</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/30/9422957/barcelona-manager-upset-with-fans-for-booing-the-team-in-champions" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></a></b></div>
<i><br /></i>
Bayern's Robert Lewandowski is tearing it up. On fire. Raphael Honigstein interviewed the guy. <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/german-bundesliga/10/blog/post/2636174/robert-lewandowski-exclusive-interview-credits-bayern-revamp" target="_blank">Check it</a></b>.<br />
<br />
OK. We out.<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-26727911723182829082015-09-29T12:59:00.002-04:002015-09-29T13:00:30.641-04:00Champions League, Jack Warner Banned, Scribes, 11 Scandals Involving John Terry<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tT37si-ubgXFZhoreUz0kfBkPgmrdT8SN5A5UKCrfN-ELl7aBOx-5JwE0r3iTWvXkUKyHlsyDZE0JZk4KfU36jd8VjHzvhCf4ENRd2UXxbkpboeX94t6ZdvR3Pxrlc11aHV1eg/s1600/150601160128-jack-warner-youtube-large-169.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tT37si-ubgXFZhoreUz0kfBkPgmrdT8SN5A5UKCrfN-ELl7aBOx-5JwE0r3iTWvXkUKyHlsyDZE0JZk4KfU36jd8VjHzvhCf4ENRd2UXxbkpboeX94t6ZdvR3Pxrlc11aHV1eg/s640/150601160128-jack-warner-youtube-large-169.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Buh bye.</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Gosh. <b><a href="http://www.lovethispic.com/uploaded_images/139041-Happy-Hump-Day.jpg" target="_blank">Hump Day</a></b> already. Where else to begin but with Jack Warner? <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34388545" target="_blank">He's been banned</a></b>. Yay! Good riddance.<br />
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On the pitch, Everton produced a stunning comeback against West Brom yesterday. Andy Hunter was at the Hawthorns and <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/28/west-bromwich-albion-everton-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">filed this report</a></b>.<br />
<br />
More matches today! It's the Champions League! Barcelona begin their non-Messi life, <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2636370/jose-mourinhos-return-to-porto-met-with-affection-only" target="_blank">The Special One returns to Porto</a></b>, Arsenal host The Greeks, and Zagreb go to Munich. Here's your lot:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2572735-ultimate-guide-to-champions-league-matchday-2-english-trio-under-huge-pressure" target="_blank"><b>Ultimate Guide to Champions League Matchday 2</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/uefa-champions-league/2/blog/post/2635182/jose-mourinho-porto-return-champions-league-matchday-two" target="_blank"><b>Five Storylines For Matchday Two</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Barcelona vs. Bayer Leverkusen: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/29/9413995/barcelona-bayer-leverkusen-2015-champions-league-time-tv-schedule-news" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Porto vs. Chelsea: <a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/fc-porto-vs-chelsea/preview/351353" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Arsenal vs. Olympiacos: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/29/9411881/arsenal-olympiacos-2015-live-stream-champions-league-time-tv-schedule" target="_blank">Preview</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11945/10010793/chelsea-man-utd-man-city-to-slip-up-in-the-champions-league-fears-charlie-nicholas" target="_blank"><b>Charlie Nicholas's Predictions</b></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Woof! Former United defender Paul Parker is having quite the go at his old side, and the Premier League in general. <b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2573447-manchester-united-jose-mourinho-kurt-zouma-and-more-slammed-by-paul-parker" target="_blank">Good stuff</a></b>!</div>
<br />
And now it's time for...<b><a href="https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/photos/picture-this-11-scandals-involving-chelsea-and-england-star-john-terry-slideshow/john-terry-parked-photo-1443540438365.html" target="_blank">11 Scandals Involving John Terry</a></b>.<br />
<br />
Scribe Time! Do it:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Where? Spain. Who? Sid Lowe. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/29/villarreal-top-la-liga-first-time-history" target="_blank">Villarreal sit top of La Liga for the first time in their history …and it matters</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Raphael Honigstein. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/28/roger-schmidt-bayer-leverkusen-barcelona" target="_blank">High-pressing Bayer Leverkusen have sights set on Barça</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Uli Hesse. What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/borussia-monchengladbach/268/blog/post/2635726/monchengladbach-seek-return-to-glory-days" target="_blank">Monchengladbach seek glory again</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? South America. Who? Tim Vickery. What? <a href="http://www.worldsoccer.com/columnists/tim-vickery-columnists/tim-vickerys-notes-from-south-america-messi-injury-blow-opens-door-for-tevez-364775" target="_blank">Messi injury blow opens door for Tevez</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Italy. Who? Paolo Bandini. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/28/serie-a-hunchback-fiorentina-judgement-luck" target="_blank">Hunchback of Fiorentina instils judgement as much as luck</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Spain. Who? Graham Hunter. What? <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/spanish-primera-division/15/blog/post/2634568/barcelona-challenges-without-lionel-messi" target="_blank">How Messi's injury will impact Barcelona, Luis Suarez, team tactics</a></b></div>
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<b>Where? Germany. Who? Dominic Fifield. Really? Yes. OK. What? <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/29/mandela-egbo-borussia-monchengladbach-crystal-palace" target="_blank">English teenager Mandela Egbo savours life at Borussia Mönchengladbach</a></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Where? France. Who? Julien Laurens. What. <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2637120/hatem-ben-arfa-is-getting-his-career-back-on-track-with-nice" target="_blank">Ben Arfa is getting his career back on track with Nice in Ligue 1</a></b></div>
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It's Tuesday, and that also means <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/marcotti-musings/62/post/2635846/barcelona-cant-afford-more-injuries-beyond-lionel-messi" target="_blank">Marcotti's Musings</a></b>. This week, Gab is gabbing that Barca can't afford any more injuries, Man United's tests, Inter loss not a blip.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/33gTb1v3wds" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/audio/2015/sep/28/football-weekly-podcast-manchester-united-top-man-city-slump" target="_blank">Podcast!!</a></span></b> <i>Manchester United breezed past Sunderland to take their place at the top of the table for the first time in two years. That's because Manchester City lost their third game in a row, this time a shambolic 4-1 defeat at Tottenham. Will resurgent Borussia Mönchengladbach make it four in a row for Manuel Pellegrini's charges when they meet in the Champions League on Tuesday night? Elsewhere in the Premier League, Arsenal finally scored some goals in their impressive 5-2 win at Leicester, Brendan Rodgers lived to fight another day as Liverpool beat Aston Villa, and Newcastle really should have beaten Chelsea. Well, it is the Best League in the World. Finally, we pay visits to Scotland - sorry Aberdeen, we'll never speak of you again - and the Championship, where Brighton are flying high.</i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/09/28/mls-power-rankings-week-30-drogba-giovinco-larin-keane-martins" target="_blank">MLS Power Rankings</a></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/who-scored-blog/2015/sep/29/champions-league-previews-porto-chelsea-manchester-united-barcelona" target="_blank"><b>Champions League Previews & Teams of the Week From Around Europe</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/29/9414309/jose-mourinho-says-hell-bench-chelseas-stars-for-kids-if-they-keep" target="_blank">Backheel Breakfast</a></b></div>
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And finally...<b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2015/sep/27/football-francesco-totti-jimmy-armfield-premier-league" target="_blank">Barry Glendenning wishes to salute football's one-club men</a></b>.<br />
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Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-68228855970235564022015-09-28T10:47:00.001-04:002015-09-28T10:49:19.314-04:00Spurs Shock City, Fiorentina Eviscerate Inter, Newcastle Almost Defeat Chelsea, Messi Hurt, Málaga Hold Real Madrid, Monday Night Football<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVh8xVIpYZY4t8cRkYxbic0FzK-5k2-MKZw9iBFp1HBGejq18Z0yfPQwt-iu_f00bAtHUYBQHS-MsUisKxLGbmP6_N865dF9OlUaLSIhZ_XGjwxHnwqvGQ7d49E_zqdMj8xyLWJA/s1600/CP6yo6XWEAAvJfL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVh8xVIpYZY4t8cRkYxbic0FzK-5k2-MKZw9iBFp1HBGejq18Z0yfPQwt-iu_f00bAtHUYBQHS-MsUisKxLGbmP6_N865dF9OlUaLSIhZ_XGjwxHnwqvGQ7d49E_zqdMj8xyLWJA/s640/CP6yo6XWEAAvJfL.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Bummer, bro...</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wowzers! The incredible matches just keep coming, do they not? Wild scenes in all of the top leagues in Europe and some fascinating results. Who's happy? Tottenham, Napoli, Villarreal, and <b><a href="http://www.violanation.com/2015/9/27/9405881/inter-milan-fiorentina-serie-a-2015-final-score-result?_ga=1.173521824.2038906515.1387207408" target="_blank">Fiorentina</a></b>. Who's sad? Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Manchester City, and <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/club/juventus/111/blog/post/2634580/juventus-title-defence-in-serie-a-in-ruins-after-napoli-loss" target="_blank">Juventus</a></b>. let's hit it, beginning in the Premier League!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/premier-league-review-sanchez-carries-162254400.html" target="_blank">Premier League Review</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/28/premier-league-10-talking-points-weekend-action" target="_blank"><b>10 Talking Points From The Weekend's Action</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/09/26/epl-tottenham-manchester-city-officiating" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Notes</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2635241/alexis-sanchez-tottenham-are-heroes-chelsea-sherwood-villain" target="_blank">Heroes & Villains</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2572823-premier-league-hangover-kane-sturridge-sanchez-and-rooney-all-break-ducks" target="_blank">Premier League Hangover</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Tottenham 4 - 1 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/26/kevin-de-bruyne-manchester-city-tottenham" target="_blank">Barney Ronay at White Hart Lane</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Tottenham 4 - 1 Manchester City: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/tottenham-manchester-city-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Daniel Taylor at White Hart Lane</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Miguel Delaney: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2633940/manchester-city-defeat-at-tottenham-leads-to-deeper-doubts" target="_blank">City's heavy defeat at Tottenham sees deeper doubts return</a></b></div>
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<b>Leicester 2 - 5 Arsenal: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/leicester-city-arsenal-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Amy Lawrence at King Power Stadium</a></b></div>
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<b>Leicester 2 - 5 Arsenal: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/27/arsenal-arsene-wenger-leicester-theo-walcott" target="_blank">Richard Rae at King Power Stadium</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Leicester 2 - 5 Arsenal: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/the-match/60/post/2631105/arsenal-back-on-track-with-victory-at-leicester" target="_blank">Three Observations</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Manchester United 3 - 0 Sunderland: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/manchester-united-sunderland-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Jamie Jackson at Old Trafford</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Phil McNulty: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34371024" target="_blank">Are Manchester United Genuine Title Contenders?</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Liverpool 3 - 2 Aston Villa: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/liverpool-aston-villa-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Andy Hunter at Anfield</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Newcastle 2 - 2 Chelsea: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/26/newcastle-united-chelsea-premier-league-match-report" target="_blank">Paul Wilson at St. James' Park</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Nick Miller: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2635842/how-to-fix-chelsea-five-possible-solutions-to-turn-it-around" target="_blank">Five Ways to Fix Chelsea</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2634597/team-of-the-weekend-sep-26-27" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Weekend</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34374335" target="_blank"><b>Garth Crooks's Team of the Weekend</b></a></div>
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Loads of shit going down Stateside, yo! Here are <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/28/seattle-sounders-frank-lampard-mls" target="_blank">Five Things We Learned</a></b> in Major League Soccer over the weekend, and here is a <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/19/blog/post/2635454/mls-weekend-review-topsy-turvy-season-continues-as-la-go-top" target="_blank">Weekend Review</a></b>.<br />
<br />
Speaking of shit...and holy shit at that, the team at the top of La Liga is Villarreal! Villarreal! For the first time ever, no less. Here are some <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/spanish-primera-division/15/blog/post/2634968/villarreal-make-history-in-la-liga-plus-barca-minus-messi" target="_blank">Talking Points</a></b> from Spain. Meanwhile, sad news for Barcelona where Messi's been ruled out for at least a few months with a torn internal collateral ligament in his left knee. Ouch. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/article/165/10005858/a-review-of-the-weekends-action-in-spains-la-liga" target="_blank">Weekend Review for La Liga</a></b>. Más mañana con El Sid.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34374838" target="_blank">European Review</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/european-paper-review-lionel-messi-112858397.html" target="_blank"><b>European Paper Review</b></a></div>
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Over in Italy, Fiorentina are top after opening a can of whoop ass on Inter Milan at the San Siro. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/article/165/10008152/serie-a-review-fiorentina-hit-the-top-after-ending-inters-unbeaten-start" target="_blank">Weekend Review for Serie A</a></b>. More domani con Paolo.<br />
<br />
And finally...there is Monday Night Football to enjoy! <b><a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/w-brom-vs-everton/341255" target="_blank">West Brom vs. Everton</a></b>.<br />
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That'll do it! We're now up to speed after a wacky one.<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28207236.post-66898825368629540222015-09-25T11:30:00.000-04:002015-09-25T11:30:39.411-04:00Blatter Questioned, Tottenham vs. Manchester City, Inter vs. Fiorentina, Sid Lowe in Spain, Napoli vs. Juventus, Basque Derby, Hamburg<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SnvxFQvPsJhKwdKUdnnRXSFfrUKhIy0bYQz8_mzmAnA-H5Oh3sLNFGCCPHEltkVXGHEQFsvxIeamqHDXUCvhMa0mTxDSgfMAzYTMseu5sKk205V6b8G9DW7q6pY2InFV3k35tA/s1600/yikes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SnvxFQvPsJhKwdKUdnnRXSFfrUKhIy0bYQz8_mzmAnA-H5Oh3sLNFGCCPHEltkVXGHEQFsvxIeamqHDXUCvhMa0mTxDSgfMAzYTMseu5sKk205V6b8G9DW7q6pY2InFV3k35tA/s640/yikes.jpg" width="604" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Dick Advocaat and Louis van Gaal in 1995...</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There goes another one, folks! The week is done and dusted (it was fun!) and we've a weekend of fantastic footie to look forward to. Before we focus on the pitch, let's take a gander at <strike>SPECTRE</strike> FIFA and Sepp Blatter. <b><a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34363289" target="_blank">The Swiss are on him like white on rice</a></b>. Nice! Now, then...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2571730-premier-league-preview-clock-ticking-for-brendan-rodgers-at-liverpool" target="_blank">Premier League Preview</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2624077/manchester-united-in-premier-league-title-race-despite-flaws" target="_blank"><b>Premier League Spotlight</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/6-things-watch-premier-league-6508284" target="_blank"><b>Six Things To Watch</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/25/premier-league-10-things-to-look-out-for" target="_blank"><b>10 Things To Look Out For</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Phil McNulty: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34345949" target="_blank">Rooney, Aguero, Hazard, Costa, Sanchez, Kane: What is wrong?</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Michael Cox: <a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/blog/tactics-and-analysis/67/post/2629712/crystal-palace-leicester-and-west-ham-thrive-via-counterattack" target="_blank">Palace, Leicester, West Ham using counter-attack to great effect</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>David Hytner: <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/25/mauricio-pochettino-tottenham-spurs-daniel-levy-manchester-city" target="_blank">Pochettino plays the long game as reality bites at Tottenham</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11661/10004252/mersons-predictions-easy-wins-for-chelsea-man-utd-and-man-city" target="_blank"><b>Paul Merson's Predictions</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/34337492" target="_blank"><b>Lawro's Predictions</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11065/10005018/no-chelsea-or-arsenal-players-in-soccer-saturday-pundits-teams-of-season-so-far" target="_blank"><b>Team of the Season So Far</b></a></div>
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There's a Joy of Six today! It's <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/sep/25/joy-of-six-short-lived-football-rule-changes" target="_blank"><b>Short-Lived Football Rule Changes</b></a>. How about that?<br />
<br />
Due to the mid-week action, there is a bit of a Scribes Special on offer today. <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/24/hamburg-schalke-roberto-di-matteo" target="_blank">Raphael Honigstein looks back on what happened and what's on deck for the Bundesliga</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/sep/24/la-liga-celta-vigo-barcelona-attacking-trio-msn" target="_blank">Sid Lowe simply has to revisit the asswupping Celta Vigo put on Barcelona</a></b>. Not to be left out, James Horncastle wants to report from Italy. <b><a href="http://www.espnfc.co.uk/italian-serie-a/12/blog/post/2630630/napoli-and-juventus-search-for-consistency-as-inter-set-pace" target="_blank">No problem, James</a></b>!<br />
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In terms of this weekend, Serie A features a clash in Milan of the top two in the table: Inter vs. Fiorentina. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/86/italy/2015/09/25/15717942/talking-points-serie-a?ICID=SP_HN_1" target="_blank">Weekend Preview</a> </b>for Italy.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/9/25/9397271/qatar-2022-world-cup-will-start-in-november-and-be-extremely-rushed" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Backheel Breakfast</span></a></b></div>
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Down in Spain, the Basque Derby dominates as Athletic Bilbao head up the highway to face Real Sociedad in San Sebastián. Here's your <b><a href="http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/88/spain/2015/09/25/15717692/la-liga-talking-points-kovacic-making-his-mark-neymars-man?ICID=SP_HN_1" target="_blank">Weekend Preview</a></b> for Spain. Oh, look! Here's your <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/sep/25/mls-parity-didier-drogba-montreal" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Major League Soccer Weekend Preview</a>, too.<br />
<br />
Hamburg. Great city. Two teams. Very different. <b><a href="http://thesefootballtimes.co/2015/09/23/a-tale-of-one-city-hamburg/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=New%20Campaign&utm_term=Soccer%20National" target="_blank">Go</a></b>.<br />
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And finally...it looks like <b><a href="http://talkingbaws.com/2015/09/arsenal-fans-are-only-7000-signatures-away-from-having-mike-deans-refereeing-debated-in-parliament/" target="_blank">Mike Dean's refereeing will most likely be debated in Parliament</a></b>.<br />
<br />
Onward!!<br />
<br />
-SSN<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://pitchrivals.com/">pitchrivals.com</a></b></div>
The Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07324571196600979094noreply@blogger.com1