La Liga News: 107 Real Madrid youth players across Europe

Barcelona may get plenty of recognition for 'La Masia', the youth set-up at Barca that continues to churn out some outstanding young talent, most recently Pedro and Jeffren, but today 'AS' reported the amazing statistic that there are 107 players playing professional football across Europe that were nutured in 'La Fábrica' at Real Madrid. 51 ply their trade in 'La Liga', 43 in 'La Segunda' and 13 overseas. Out of those who play in the Primera Division, Getafe is home to seven former Real Madrid youth players, with Soldado, Parejo, Belenguer, Adrián, Casquero, Miguel Torres and Codina all at home in the Coliseum.

Abroad you have Jordi Lopez in the Premiership, Javi Garcia and Balboa in Portugal, and it even streches as far as Armenia where Ulises and Pedro Lopez reside. Real Madrid themselves can only count on five at this moment in time, with Raul (contentious inclusion as he was originally an Atlético product), Guti and Casillas the old-timers joined more recently by Arbeloa (purchased from Liverpool) and Granero, with perhaps only Casillas and Arbeloa considered definite starters. If Real Madrid want to bridge the small gap that now separates them from their Catalan rivals, they will need to start turning these prospects into regular first-teamers, instead of letting talent such as Negredo and Soldado slip through their fingers.

La Liga 2009 Top Ten: The best of Spanish Football in 2009

What a year it has been for La Liga and Spanish Football in general. To cap it off in style, here is my 'Livin La Liga Top Ten' for 2009:

1. FC BARCELONA: There's no doubt the lasting memory of 2009 will be the spectacular six trophy haul by Barcelona. That injury time goal from Iniesta at Chelsea, the famous 2-6 victory in the Bernabeu and Guardiolas tears after the World Club Cup win which sealed the unprecedented sextruplet. A special mention should also go to Mr Lionel Messi after leading from the front all year and bagging all the personal awards since. This team has been immortalised in footballing history and then some.

2. SPANISH NATIONAL TEAM: Just the one defeat all year, a faultless World Cup qualifying campaign and the number one ranking in the world. Many thought it would be a tough task for Vicente Del Bosque following their Euro 2008 triumph, but the changeover has been seamless. 47 goals and 15 wins out of 16 matches is all the evidence you need. Simply the best.

3. REAL MADRID SPENDING SPREE: Florentino has been widely criticised for his spending spree (outside of Madrid of course), but I thought it was box office. The summer of 2009 was a journalists dream as Florentino handpicked some of Europes finest to grace La Liga. Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaká, Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso were the biggest names to join the new 'Galacticos' and turn Spanish Football into the home of the worlds finest. It will interesting to see what 2010 holds in store for Real Madrid.

4. IKER MUNIAIN: 2009 saw the rapid rise of Spanish footballs newest star. Iker Muniain has broken all sorts of records at the San Mames this year, demonstrating along the way a potential that is ready to explode in 2010. With electric pace, a Messi-esque touch, an eye for goal and a fiery never-say-die attitude, the youth set-up at Athletic Bilbao has unearthed another gem.

5. MALLORCA AND GREGORIO MANZANO: The Real Madrids and Barcelonas may get the plaudits, but the job Gregorio Manzano and his Mallorca team are doing is just as noteworthy. With dwindling attendances, boardroom problems, a tiny budget and a set of modest footballers, Mallorca prove the doubters wrong week in week out. After a commendable ninth place finish last season, they are sitting pretty in fifth as 2009 comes to a close. Spectacular from the islanders.

6. PEDRO: It can't be long now until Pedro is a fixture in the Barca starting XI (if he isn't already) after sealing a stunning 2009 with the last gasp goal which kept Barcelona in the World Club Cup final. The match before he wrote his name in the record books as the only player in footballing history to have scored in all six major tournaments in one season. This year also saw him sign his first professional contract with the club, which ties him to Barca until 2014. What a year.

7. ATHLETIC BILBAO CUP FINAL 24 YEARS LATER: With their record of 23 Copa del Rey wins (only behind Barca who have 25) it was fantastic to see the Basque team back in a cup final 24 years after their last appearance in 1985. Although they ended up losing to the best team on the planet, Bilbao was transformed into a red and white wonderland and the excitement it stirred up in the city was spellbinding.

8. ESPANYOLS NEW HOME: Having spent 12 long years in their temporary home in Montjuic, Espanyol were finally given a new home in 2009 as they moved to the fantastic Estadi Cornellà-El Prat. It was always a sad sight to see them play at the soulless Olympic Stadium, which was almost always half-empty, so it's great to see Spains sixth most successful club in a brand-spanking new stadium.

9. XEREZ IN PRIMERA: Xerez, a small club with scarce financial resources, finished above the mighty Real Zaragoza to top 'La Segunda' and reach La Liga for the first time in their 62 year history. The little town in deep Andalucia went beserk and even though they are rock bottom as we enter 2010, the players and fans will always remember 2009 as the year they finally reached the summit of Spanish football.

10. DIEGO FORLAN: Diego Forlan has not looked back since he made his move to Spain from Manchester United and 2009 saw him snatch La Ligas 'Pichichi' title and Europes Golden Boot, both for the second time. He finished last season with 32 goals in 33 league encounters, and among them plenty of contenders for goal of the season. Even this season in a struggling Atlético side, he has netted 6 in 11. The Uruguayan has been lethal.

Merry Christmas

Just want to wish everyone a Merry Merry Christmas and hope you guys get many special gifts from your loved ones and friends!

My baby bought me Mares TechNomad 100 dive bag, it's something i have always wanted not just to keep my dive gears, but its very useful too when i go travelling. The bag isn't small and there's plenty of pockets around, so i'm very happy with the gift :) MUAH hou van jou baby!!

The night started off with a family dinner at Damansara Perdana. The food kinda sucked and it was pretty expensive, RM70 per person for buffet that did not include drinks. It ended up with a RM600 bill. Ouch, for a crappy dinner. As usual being in a very vain family, not forgetting my baby is another camwhore :P

So after dinner, we headed to Sharon's place at Mont Kiara Ayuria last night for some small Christmas Eve gathering. It was all karaoke and chit chatting at the start til we started making 3 teams to play drinking poker :D Yes end of the night, we were all pretty high. Not surprise tho, we finished 1 bottle of Vodka and 2 red wines in barely 1 1/2hours, but it was all really fun =)

4 More days until i leave to Koh Lipe!! My final holiday of 2009, or you can call it the first of 2010 :P Any way you put it, i know it's going to be a real great way to celebrate new years eve! I am looking forward to this trip as much as ever, not only i heard the beaches are nice, the diving aren't bad, and what more you can ask for 20 of my friends are joining the fun!

See you guys around, once again Merry Christmas to you =)

Jermaine Pennant: Following the trend of English Players abroad

It came as a surprise to many when Jermaine Pennant made the switch to Spanish football after completing his free transfer to Real Zaragoza from Liverpool in July. Maybe it was because he was joining little known Real Zaragoza. Maybe because it was Jermaine Pennant. I believe it was a bit of both and the fact that an English player moving to Europe, unfortunately, doesn't happen very often. But now Jermaines Spanish dream appears to be coming to an abrupt end as Zaragoza have made it clear they want to offload the player back to The Premiership, adding the Nottingham-born winger to a sorry line of English players who have made early exits from their foreign adventures.

Personally, I think he made a great move and it should be encouraged. A change of environment was exactly what the player needed and I'm all for English players trying their luck abroad. When you think about how many have actually tried, you would struggle to get above ten. In addition to the trio of Beckham, Woodgate and Owen at Real Madrid; Luther Blissett, Ian Rush and John Charles (both Welsh), Trevor Francis, David Platt and Jay Bothroyd (now at Cardiff City) all tried their luck in Serie A; Kevin Keegan enjoyed a successful spell at Hamburg in Germany, Glenn Hoddle likewise at Monaco in France. Then you have the fleeting appearances by players in the twilights of their careers, such as Stan Collymores ill-fated spell at Real Oviedo. Out of these, only Trevor Francis lasted five years. Jermaine Pennant is set to last only six months.

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But he can count himself extremely unlucky if indeed he does get shipped off this winter. In the games I've seen him play, he has performed well in what is a dreadfully underperforming team, and he has kept himself out of mischief off the pitch. Fans at 'La Romareda' took to him straight away as he proved his worth down the right wing with some stunning bursts of pace and trickery mixed with consistently well-delivered crosses during pre-season and the early part of La Liga season. A hamstring injury knocked him out of his stride a few weeks ago, but he regained his starting place in the first XI, and was seen as a favourite of former coach Marcelino. But now Marcelino is gone and Pennant finds himself an unwanted luxury. Director Gerhard Poschner has stated that the club is disappointed with Jermaines attitude, work-rate and commitment to the club and that he forms part of a four-player group the club want to get rid of this winter. When you look closely at that group (Ayala, Ewerthon and Lopez Vallejo included) all are on astronomical wages, with Pennant reportedly on over £2 million a year.

_

It's hardly subtle from the Spanish club, and they could definitely have been more open about the whole affair instead of tainting Pennants 'angelic' character. But with a huge debt hanging over them, and possible relegation to 'La Segunda' on the way, the clueless board have to start thinking about cutting the wage bill. I'd like to think Jermaine will knuckle down with typical english grit and prove he is worth his huge salary at the Aragonese club, much like Beckham did at Madrid under Capello. But with the club out for blood, it could be out of his control and he'll reluctantly join that illustrious list of greats that made the jump, only to make a premature return to Blighty.

coming soon a [crappy] travelgoblog: europa09

i haven't pen a travelblog since the trip to brisbane-goldcoast-sydney,feb2007 and bali,jun2007 (more bullsh*t under 'travel' tag).

So allow me to start again, please dont bear with me.

Making short story long; between end Nov-early Dec (aka a few weeks ago u genius), 6 stubborn people, in total agreement that a holiday is loonnng overdue, went packing their boxers, toothbrush and cheap shades...

ATHENS - ISTANBUL 27/11- 4/12

a historical odyssey into the Ancient Greek Civilisation and Turkish Ottoman Empire

starring:

Hercules HEDY; Parthenon, Acropolis

EDY, son of ZEUS; Herodes Atticus Theatre

Spartan Army General YANOS; Temple of Poseidon

Emperor JOKER(1) the Magnificent; Hagia Sofia

ZABIDI 'Nidji' ibni Sultan Salem; Istiklal Caddesi

and endtroducing

JIM Beyoglu; Cemberlitas

soon...this is sparta...prepare for glory!

FIFA World Player of the Year: Leo Messi crowned undisputable King of Football

As expected, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi snatched the FIFA World Player of the Year Award for 2009, capping an unbeatable year in which he has contibuted to Barcelonas six trophy haul and bagged the coveted Ballon D'Or. The prize was decided by all the managers and captains of the International sides accredited by FIFA and was presented to Leo during a snazzy bash in Zurich headed by the master of ceremonies Sepp Blatter. Cristiano Ronaldo wasn't left empty-handed either, as he was handed the FIFA Puskas Award for the most beautiful goal scored during 2009 for his missile against Porto in last seasons Champions League Quarter-final. A worthy winner.

A little montage of a little living legend.

Iron Man

Robert Downey Jr. and Stan WinstonOriginally uploaded by Arnel BI don’t get tired of talking about movies I love; when a movie resonates with you it deserves to be loved and praised and hopefully you can make others watch it. I am hoping that people love Iron Man as much as I do and that at some point through the course of my raving about it through this blog that perhaps if you hadn’t seen it,

La Liga News: Barcelona given early Xmas present

Barcelonas xmas came early when news filtered through that their bid for Manchester Citys forward Robinho had been rejected. The euforia surrounding Barcas sextruplet must have gone to Laportas head as he made Man City an offer for their record signing. Luckily for the Catalan club, Man City decided not to cash on on their Brazilian flop, allowing him to sulk a few more months in northern England before being shipped off to the continent. Besides where would he have played? They have the best attacking quartet in World Football, and with talented youngsters Pedro, Jeffren, Bojan and even Gai Assulin waiting in the wings, it would have been a tremendous waste of money.

It's been a busy few days for Barcelona. Today they took on Kazma of Kuwait in a meaningless friendly, with a line-up bursting with reserves and youth teamers. The game ended one apiece, with a Bojan goal (80mins) being cancelled out with virtually the last kick by Abdullah al Dafiri. The match reportedly earned Barca €1.8 million and no doubt endless Asian fans, but it came at a cost as Jeffren was taken off with thigh injury. Guardiola used the friendly to try out Chygrynskiy as a shield infront of the back four as he will be missing Keita and Yaya Toure during the African Cup of Nations. The move didn't pan out too well though as the Ukranian was badly at fault for the Kuwaiti goal. Pep will be hoping Sergio Busquets keeps fit during January.

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Behind the scenes, Joan Laporta has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of this season, and has not ruled out elections before. Firstly he wants to tie Pep Guardiola to the club with a long-term contract: a man he believes is already among the finest managers Barca have ever had, and who will one day be recognised as the best manager ever. The current frontrunner to take over the club is Sandro Rossel, a businessman who has worked in marketing with Nike and was a fundamental part of Laportas 2003 presidential campaign which saw Ronaldinho brought to the club.

hibernation dub**:a lame18th month&counting

La Liga Results/Highlights: Atlético Madrid hobble into Christmas

Tenerife 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid

(1-0) 3' Nino, (1-1) 21' Jurado

• A poor match between two teams that are really struggling to escape the attentions of the relegation zone. Atlético Madrid would have wanted to sign off before Christmas with a much needed three points, but fell behind to an early Nino strike and only managed to salvage a draw. They pushed for a winner in the last ten minutes after Asenjo had saved a Nino penalty but it wasn't to be.
  
• Tenerife can be glad with their position up to now, especially when you take into account the performances of Real Zaragoza who got promoted alongside the islanders, but have a far greater budget. Retaining winger Omar and Ninos goalscoring form will be important to their push for survival.
  

Real Valladolid 2 - 1 Sporting Gijón

(0-1) 13' Luis Moran, (1-1) 29' Nivaldo, (2-1) 90' Medunjanin

• Quality match that flowed from end to end and provided a grandstand finish with Medunjanins brilliant late winner. The Bosnian along with Diego Costa and Cannobio are vital to Real Valladolids hopes in the new year after helping to push their team to relative mid-table safety before the xmas break. A real hit or miss side that will want to find some consistency in 2010.
  
• Sporting took an early lead and contributed to an entertaining match played in freezing conditions. They´ve seen their storming start to the season fade away in recent weeks but they can be happy with the fact that they're closer to the UEFA spots than the relegation zone. They'll be hoping Bilic is back and raring to go in the new year.
  

Villarreal 2 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) 49' Llorente, (2-0) 72' Rossi

• The scale of Villarreals revival since hitting rock bottom after 6 matches has meant everyone has forgotten that Ernesto Valverde was one game away from losing his job. The truth is there was always far too much quality in their side to be in that end of the table.
  
• Santi Cazorla came off the bench at half-time to give the home side some added impetus, and together with Cani helped the yellow submarine to the three points through strikes from Joseba Llorente and Rossi. Racing managed to withstand the pressure during the first 45 mins, but with little being offered by Tchite and Xisco upfront the defence folded under the pressure in the second half.
  

Espanyol 2 - 0 Almería

(1-0) 45' Marquez, (2-0) 81' Coro

• Almería fell to yet another defeat which proved to be the straw that broke the boards back and saw Hugo Sanchez sacked as manager. His team lacked fight from the start and Sanchez did little to improve the situation with substitutions that arrived far too late to change the situation.
  
• The three points were vital for Espanyol as they enter the xmas break on a high and four points off the drop zone. Joan Verdú was inspirational in the middle of the park, assisted admirably by Javi Marquez who set his side on the road to victory with a sublime finish on the stroke of half-time.
  

Málaga 2 - 1 Mallorca

(1-0) 23' Fernando, (1-1) 56' Julio Alvarez, (2-1) 76' Forestieri

• If anyone needed three points today it was Málaga. Leaving Xerez firmly rooted to the bottom, the team from La Rosaleda. Young striker Fernando Forestieri came on after 65 mins and ten minutes later scored the goal that keeps his side in touch with the group of teams above.
  
• Mallorca have been the surprise package of the season so far, but suffered from the loss of Borja Valero through injury and two shocking errors from Israeli keeper Arouate which led to both Málaga goals. It will interesting to see if they can continue to challenge for the UEFA spots in 2010.
  

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Valencia

• The battle for the Champions League spots promised much beforehand but delivered little on the night. Valencia will be the happier of the two as they go into the break occupying that lucrative fourth place while Depor lie below Mallorca in sixth.
  
• Both teams signed off what has been a fantastic start to the 2009/2010 season with a drab encounter. Juan Carlos Valeron was the games best player and he nearly got Depor the goal which would probably have been enough for the points with a header which smacked against Cesars crossbar.
  

Xmas time!

According to some locals mugging and robbery, increases in Luanda during Xmas time!!!

jimmy connors

jimmy connors jimmy connors dog jimmy connors doing today jimmy connors atwork photo jimmy connors how old jimmy connors little jimmy connors pics

La Liga Results: Rampant Real Madrid put Zaragoza to the sword

Sevilla 1 - 2 Getafe

(0-1) 12' Soldado, (0-2) 33' Soldado, (1-2) 51' Negredo

• Giving that I was in Seville and there were cheap tickets I decided to go along. It was freezing and Sevilla never really woke up from their early slumber which saw Roberto Soldado tuck away the two chances that came his way. The second was cooly taken and he's now on ten for the season.
  
• I was particularly looking forward to seeing Getafes Pedro Leon after the rave reviews he's been getting and whilst he didn't light up the match there were some lovely touches and a magical run which almost resulted in a wonder goal late on. Perotti was Sevillas biggest threat with some weaving runs on the left but they lacked a focal point upfront. Luis Fabianos guile was sorely missed.
  
• Michel must have seen survival as Getafes aim at the start if the season, but who could blame him for upping that to UEFA qualification. They were solid at the back and broke out on the counter with real purpose. Sevilla will be bitterly disappointed with more points dropped at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
  

Real Madrid 6 - 0 Real Zaragoza

(1-0) 3' Higuaín, (2-0) 26' Van der Vaart, (3-0) 29' Van der Vaart, (4-0) 34' Higuaín, (5-0) 50' C. Ronaldo, (6-0) 71' Benzema

• I'm beginning to wonder why Real Zaragoza even bother turning up for away matches. They look beaten before a ball has been kicked. But that's not to take anything away from a majestic Real Madrid who took Zaragoza apart at will. Higuains second and Cristiano Ronaldos goal were stunning.
  
• If Jose Aurelio Gay keeps his job he simply cannot persist with Ayala and Pavon. Both were at fault for pretty much every goal with some utterly shocking defending. Pavon allowing Benzema to steam past him for the sixth was criminal. The board should be ashamed of how they've let a great club turn into the laughing stock of Spanish football.
  
• Real Madrid close the gap at the top to two points and on this performance they will push Barca to the edge. There are promising signs for the partnership between Higuain and birthday boy Benzema. Van der Vaart also staked his claim for a spot in the team with a solid performance and two goals.
  

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 0 Osasuna

(1-0) 1' Yeste, (0-2) 12' Llorente

• Athletic Bilbao came flying out of the blocks and were two up after 12 minutes. Yeste tapped in after 50 seconds after some dogged work from Llorente. That signalled the start of a onslaught from the home side and the big striker then made it two with a sweet strike from outside the box.
  
• Bilbao were rampant in the first half and they could have gone in 5 up at the break. Fran Yeste put in a fantastic shift and the Osasuna defence couldnt handle Llorentes strength up top. The game was over after 12 minutes and although Osasuna improved after the break they never troubled Athletic who now find themselves in the UEFA positions. Joaquin Caparros will be a happy man.
  
• Camachos team were missing a whole host of first teamers and really struggled against a free-flowing Bilbao. They had enjoyed a good start to the season and had been occupying the safe spots in mid-table until today. If tomorrows results go against them they could end up close to the relegation zone and the alarm bells would start ringing.
  

Messi leads Barcelona to World Club Cup Glory

Barcelona have completed the historic clean sweep. Todays 2-1 victory in the FIFA World Club Cup final against Estudiantes gave Barca their sixth trophy of what has been a monumental year for the Catalan club. There isn't a superlative that hasn't been used to describe this Barcelona side, and you have to wonder when this trophy winning bonanza will end. Guardiolas outfit dominated the final from start to finish, but had to rely on a last-gasp Pedro goal in the 89th minute to cancel out Bosellis first half  header and send the final into extra time.

In the second half of extra time, Leo Messi downed his countrymen with a goal which proved he can score with pretty much any part of his body, as he chested in a Dani Alves cross. Pep Guardiola burst into tears at the final whistle, which was odd, but the emotion of leading his childhood club to an unprecedented sextruple was too much for the normally mild-mannered manager. We'll be talking about this Barca side for years to come, and it is an absolute privilege to watch them play the beautiful game in their uniquely magical manner. Xavi, Messi, Puyol, Pique, Iniesta and the rest of Barcelonas starstudded squad have written their names in footballing folklore. No club has ever managed to win every single tournament they've entered in one season and it's unlikely that we'll ever see it again. All hail the almighty Barcelona.

Scream!!!

Stage 4 is not easy!!! Having one of those weeks, feels like sh*t wanna scream without having to explain it to anyone... Don't even have space to think about it bahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh "Too much" eyes on me, over protection, judgment, information, stuff, people and dust on my face!!!! Let's see for how long I can keep it in silent...!!! And avoid explosive stupid rude comments!

La Liga Photo of the Day: Pepe in Pyjamas

I could compile a lengthy list of the things I love about Spanish Football. Towards the bottom of that list you would find the attention to detail offered by the sporting media. You get to know what the players eat, when they eat, the times they train, the names of their dogs, the times of their appointments and the doctors name alongside ridiculously detailed medical analysis of their injuries. They don't miss a trick. You also get bizarre photos like this of Pepe in pyjamas giving a thumbs up following his successful knee op. What makes it for me is the forced smile. Get well soon Kep.

Avatar

avatar_poster2Originally uploaded by wiro204sablengJake Sully is a paralyzed former Marine who gets a tragic, lucky break. His Twin brother Tommy was part of the Avatar program on Pandora, he had his DNA blended with the native peoples so he can be linked into the Avatar body and interact with the natives, but Tommy was killed and now The Company is afraid of losing their investment so they ask

Champions League Last-16 Draw favours Spanish sides

Looking at that Champions League draw, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Sevilla must be licking their lips. None of them were pitted against any of the English sides, and even dangerous teams such as Bayern Munich, Fiorentina and Inter Milan have been avoided. Perhaps the toughest tie is that of Real Madrid, who will face Karim Benzemas old team, Lyon, who effectively knocked out Liverpool along with Fiorentina. Barcelona will fancy their chances against a limited Stuttgart team, whilst Sevilla probably got the easiest draw of them all against CSKA Moscow, although a trip to Russia in winter is never pleasant! Having all finished on top of their respective groups, all three Spanish sides will play the second leg at home. Sweet deal.

Elsewhere, David Beckham will return to Old Trafford for the first time since he left in 2003, whilst all eyes will be on Jose Mourinho as he goes back to Stamford Bridge with his Inter Milan team. Fairytale stuff, although I`m sure the English clubs would have wanted easier ride at this stage of the tournament.

What has puzzled me is the plan to play the ties over four matchdays, with one set of matches one week and then the following set the week after. Not sure what the reasoning for that is. So this year, the matches will take place:

FIRST LEG: 16-17 February and  23-24 February

SECOND LEG: 9-10 March and 16-17 March

*Europa League Last-32 Draw:

Club Brugges - Valencia
Villarreal - Wolfsburg
Athletic Bilbao - Anderlecht
Atlético Madrid - Galatasaray

diego forlan

diego forlan goal diego forlan diego forlan football kick diego forlan pics diego forlan image diego forlan wallpapers diego forlan and sergio augerio diego forlan vikings diego forlan

UEFA Europa League: Valencia complete Italian Job

Genoa 1 - 2 Valencia

(0-1)  45' Bruno, (1-1) 51' Crespo, (1-2) 90' Villa

Valencia came through a thrilling encounter in Genoa to finish the group unbeaten, but more importantly on top of the pile, which means they avoid the Champions League rejects, and those other teams that finished top in their groups. The game was end-to-end stuff, with Valencia soaking up some incessant Italian pressure and punching the home side on the counter whenever they were given the ball. Perhaps just as entertaining was Unai Emerys theatrics on the touchline. The man is bonkers, but he is doing a sterling job. David Villa ran his heart out all night in an attempt to offer an escape route for the Valencia midfield and was rewarded with the goal that gave his side a notable victory against a well-organised and dangerous Genoa led by veteran Hernan Crespo.

Europa League Results:

Villarreal 0 - 1 FC Salzburg  (Villarreal finish second and qualify for the next round)

(0-1) 6' Svento

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 3 Werder Bremen (Athletic Bilbao finish second and qualify for the next round)

(0-1) 13' Pizarro, (0-2) 20' Naldo, (0-3) 36' Rosenburg

Bertrand Xmas dinner

Another weekend, another party to remember!!If I were a painter And could paint a memory Painter Song --Norah JonesWho said we don't get snowy xmas...?

Real Zaragoza: Deja-Vu in La Romareda

When I arrived in Zaragoza a little more than two years ago, I knew very little of Real Zaragoza apart from their mythical European Cup Winners Cup win over Arsenal in 1995 and THAT goal from Nayim which turned David Seaman into a blubbering wreck and propelled the ex-Tottenham midfielder into footballing folklore. They had finished a very respectable 6th in the 2006/2007 season, even smashing six past Real Madrid in a cup tie, and the UEFA Cup awaited.


Agapito Iglesias, the man with the plan, had spent big and I witnessed the arrivals of Ricardo Oliveira, Roberto Ayala and Matuzalem. They had a wide array of world-class talent with Diego Milito a guaranteed goal machine and Sergio García rapidly making a name for himself on the right wing. It was their 75th anniversary, there was genuine excitement around the club and a feeling that they were on the edge of greatness.

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But what an absolutely disastrous season 2007/2008 was. The first match was a sign of things to follow as they succumbed to a miserable away defeat to Murcia. They were promptly knocked out of the UEFA Cup by Aris of Greece and almost knocked out of the Spanish Cup by little Pontevedra. Sergio Garcia saved them that night with an injury time goal, but they went out straight after to Racing Santander. Without Milito, Oliveira and Sergio Garcia they would have been down by Christmas. Players such as Gabi and Luccín offered nothing in midfield except mindless 'huff and puff', and Cesar (now enjoying a swansong in Valencia) was left exposed by a defence that made a habit of committing comic errors. They promptly sacked Victor Fernandez, considered only months previously as one of the most promising managers in Spain. Ander Garitano and Javier Irureta both came and went in quick succession, before they went down on the final day of the season in Mallorca with local hero Manolo Villanova in charge.

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Having negotiated 'La Segunda' last year, albeit in unconvincing fashion, what's different this time around? The truth is not much, except that there were no pre-season expectations, there was no UEFA Cup to be knocked out of and their strikeforce is considerably weaker. 14 games, 8 defeats and 12 points is the story so far. They lie in the relegation zone and have been given hidings in Barcelona, Sevilla and Mallorca. This time the promising manager sacked has been Marcelino as Eduardo Bandrés and his crew of spineless executives demonstrate they have learned nothing from two years ago. Marcelino is a good man and a fantastic manager, but not even Ferguson or Wenger could steer this ship with such a useless board behind them. The unfortunately named Jose Aurelio Gay takes charge temporarily. Bernd Schuster has already politely declined the chance to wreck his reputation and the current frontrunner are highly-rated Rayo Vallecano manager, Pepe Mel, and ex-Zaragoza coach Victor Muñoz. They do like turning to former managers in times of need.

 _

Whoever takes over has a gargantuan task on his hands.  The loss of Nigerian striker Ikechukwu Uche to injury has been devastating, with Arizmendi not capable of filling his goalscoring boots. Jermaine Pennant has faded after a bright start. The centre of defence is made up of an ageing Ayala and a woefully inadequate Pavon, and it's no secret that that's where the problem lies, along with their hopeless away form which has dragged on for nigh on three years now. January is the perfect opportunity to strengthen the back-four, but with a debt of €70 million and a fair chunk of cash owed to Marcelino in compensation, the kitty will be bare. For the fans it must be heartbreaking to see a team with such a fantastic tradition, a club which has nurtured the likes of David Villa, Cafu and Frank Rijkaard, on it's knees in such humilliating fashion. Next up is a daunting trip to Real Madrid, and they will do well to keep the score respectable. Although there is hope in the form of promising youngsters Victor Laguardia, Ander Herrera, Kevin Lacruz and Alex Sanchez, it will take a brave man to take on this sinking giant.

Battlestar Galactica 2.0

Season 2.0 of Battlestar Galactica begins with the aftermath of Boomer shooting Adama and Roslin & Apollo being accused of mutiny. Col. Tigh is in command of the fleet while Roslin escapes and Adama is recovering, he makes a series of unwise choices, declaring marshal law and at one point even losing the rest of the fleet with an ill timed FTL jump. Roslin believes she is the prophet foretold

Nothing must want one to be different

I always shared that one of my concerns about coming to Angola was the possibility to become just another Bratz locked in conds, hairdressers and cars, stupidly unaware about what is going on in front of my eyes!!!People say that it happens eventually, that is too much of a big system to be changed, you just have to accept it and keep earning your bucks! Well... I do believe that most people, is

If it's time!?!

If you have to say goodbye, you know you'll be missed...If I'll have to wave goodbye it will be with a broken heart... If you do it I'm sure you'll do it on the top of your high hills...If it makes you happy I'll be happy too... If you need you'll have my support! =) Ps:. Just a note for a friend ... if it happens I'll talk about it later!!!

Barca through to FIFA World Club Cup final: Atlante 1 - 3 Barcelona

Barcelona are on the verge of the six-trophy haul, but they had to come from behind to seal their place in saturdays final of the 2009 FIFA World Club Cup in UAE. Guillermo Rojas took advantage of some hesistant defending from Barca in the 4th minute to lob the ball over Victor Valdes and nick it into the net just before the ball went out of play. Marquez and Puyol forgot the basic rule of defending and let the ball bounce after a hopeful punt upfield and it proved costly. But from that moment on it was a procession, and Barca could have easily ended up sticking six past Atlante.

Guardiola had to wait until the 34th minute before his side got back on level terms, when Sergio Busquets slotted past keeper and defender from inside the area following a Xavi corner. Judging from the celebration there is a mini-Busquets on the way. Dani Alves and Ibrahimovic both had chances to put Barca infront, before Leo Messi came on and turned the game on it's head with a sterling goal. The little genius had only been on the pitch a minute when he raced onto an exquisite pass from Ibra, took it past the goalie and squeezed a shot between defenders and into the net. Absolutely glorious.

Ten minutes later the game was over, and little Pedro entered the history books as they only player in football history to have scored in 6 different tournaments in one year (La Liga, Spanish Cup, Champions League, Spanish Supercup, European Supercup and now the FIFA World Club Cup). That's one for the pub quizes in a few decades time. The goal itself was another work of art, with Iniesta winding his way into the area, swaying one way then the other before delivering the killer pass to Pedro, who was left with the relatively simple task of firing past Vilar. So job done and Juan Sebastian Veron and his team, Estudiantes of Argentina, await in Saturdays final. I'd place a considerable amount of cash on Barca making it six out of six for 2009, and what an achievement that would be.

Bottle Shock

Bottle Shock is one of my little gems from 2008. I adore this movie and pretty much any time I watch it I get happier. I know that the story is fictionalized but this is one of the best underdog stories I’ve seen on film and I’m still shocked as a American, a Californian especially that I hadn’t heard about this victory over France until it was made into a movie.What I love about Bottle Shock is

Home for the Holidays

I had a pretty dang good childhood and I have a great relationship with my parents and my siblings, I really don’t know how to get through life without them; this is why I cannot figure out why I love Home for the Holidays so much. This film is about a hugely dysfunctional family. Tommy & Claudia get along fabulously but Tommy’s still secretive, and neither of them gets along with their sister.

sergio aguero best wallpapers

sergio aguero sergio aguero jarseyandle pictures and sergio aguero sergio aguero wallpapers sergio aguero sergio aguero football player sergio aguero image sergio aguero champion sergio aguero history

tiger: hari2 mau

The Family Stone

Meredith Morton & Everett Stone are a socialite couple in Manhattan, but when Everett takes Meredith home for Christmas she clashes with his family so badly that Meredith refuses to stay at the house and calls her sister Julie in to help her out. While Everett tries to convince his mother to give him his grandmothers engagement ring so he can propose to Meredith the rest of the family becomes

La Liga News: The search for Pepes replacement

Whilst the news that Real Madrid defender Pepe will miss the rest of the season is tragic, the rumour that they will be looking to replace him with a full-back is mystifying. Or at least at first sight. The theory is that Madrid are well-covered in the centre of defence through Garay, Albiol, Metzelder and Sergio Ramos (accident waiting to happen), with Arbeloa on the right and Marcelo to be asked to retreat to left-back. The Brazilian has worked wonders upfield, always offering a threat with his pace and trickery (second goal against Valencia was all his work), but whilst there are worries about his tactical nous at the back, the Madrid hierarchy are prepared to take the risk. But even so, Sergio Ramos and Marcelo in the same back four without big Pepe? Iker Casillas will be a busy man.

BARCELONA LANDED IN ABU DHABI late last night, with both Leo Messi and Seydou Keita doubts for their World Club Cup semi-final match against Atlante of Mexico. Guardiola will be looking to lead his team into a likely final against Estudiantes of Argentina, but the Mexicans won't be a push-over, with their 32 year-old goalie Federico 'The Boss' Vilar every bit a legend in South America, after leading his team to CONCACAF Champions League glory. Meanwhile, back home the debate is still rife about THAT penalty. Espanyol defender Baena has come out and denied that he admitted dragging back Xavi. 'Why would I? I never touched him'. The truth is he did 'touch' him, but if they give a penalty for every similar action in the future, there'll be twenty a match.

STRIKER ALEJANDRO 'CHORI' DOMINGUEZ, recently voted as Russias Player of the Year for 2008/2009, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with Valencia after arriving on a free transfer. The Argentinian was a hit in Rubin Kazan and former club Zenith St Petersburg, where he formed a formidable partnership with Arshavin which lead the club to UEFA Cup glory in 2008. Are Valencia preparing for life after David Villa? Or is it just the beginning of the end for back-up strikers Zigic and Miku?

Home Alone

Kevin is lost in the shuffle when his Mom & Dad invite his entire extended family to stay at his house the day before they all leave for Paris for Christmas. When they accidently leave him at home they don’t discover the blunder until they are on their flight to Paris and it will take days to get a return flight. While alone Kevin believes he’s wished his family into oblivion and enjoys his new

Burguesinha

Our chat: (censored version of course) hehehecristiana calçada diz:carla palitocarlapalito diz:diga cris calcadacarlapalito diz:loolcristiana calçada diz:yoooocarlapalito diz:o edu diz que esta é a nossa musicacarlapalito diz:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6RkZkWOekIcarlapalito diz:lolcristiana calçada diz:HAHAHAHAAHHAcristiana calçada diz:mto BOMcristiana calçada diz:hahahahacristiana calçada

Sun kissed

When I was living in Oz I used to tease Sydneysiders for the fact that they didn't know what was a sunset by the sea! Shimbalaiê, quando vejo o sol beijando o marShimbalaiê, toda vez que ele vai repousar (2x)Ser capitã desse mundoPoder rodar sem fronteirasViver um ano em segundosNão achar sonhos besteiraMe encantar com um livro, que fale sobre vaidadeQuando mentir for preciso, poder falar a

Emotional Intelligence:Why It Can Matter More Than IQ

Might be a cool Xmas present...By Daniel GolemanWhy It's a Must-Read" Despite the popular mystique of grades and scores of scholastic aptitude and IQ tests, it's an "open secret" that those grades and scores cannot unerringly predict who will succeed as a leader. At best, says author Daniel Goleman, IQ contributes perhaps 20% to the factors which determine leadership success -- leaving 80% to

La Liga Results-Highlights: Matchday 14 - Atlético Madrid in freefall

Atlético Madrid 1 - 2 Villarreal

(1-0) 36' Simao, (1-1) 48' Fuster, (1-2) 90' Llorente

• For Atlético Madrid things go from bad to worse to catastrophic. If it's not Ujfalusi it will be Perea. If it's neither of them, Pablo will have a go. Today Juanito took centre stage with two errors that gifted Villarreal their two goals. This defence is guaranteed relegation material.
  
• The match could have been over after half an hour were it not for Sergio Asenjo and some poor finishing from Villarreal. Even after conceding, Villarreal set about the home side with a menace that has characterised their rapid ascent up La Liga in recent weeks, with a 90th minute winner their reward. Villarreals patience with manager Ernesto Valverde is beginning to bear fruit.
  
• There was further bad news for Quique after his most consistent performer in recent matches, Jose Antonio Reyes, was taken to hospital after a nasty fall following a collision with Diego Lopez. One point off the relegation zone and in one hell of a mess. Atlético chose the perfect time to release their own brand of bottled wine!
  

 

Sporting Gijón 0 - 1 Sevilla

(0-1) 8' Kanoute

• Sevilla leapfrog back above Valencia after they became the first team to walk out of El Molinon with three points in the bag this season. It was a virtuoso performance but they just about did enough for the win after resisting a late charge from Sporting.
  
• The goal came from a glorious move involving Kanoute and Jesus Navas. Manolo Jiminez will be happy that the man from Mali is finding the back of the net, especially with the injury to Luis Fabiano and Alvaro Negredos continuing goal drought. The Spain striker was guilty of a shocking miss today, but he'll come good.
  
• Sporting rallied late on but failed to turn their dominance into goals. They missed Bilic more than Sevilla missed Fabiano, and without their Croatian hitman they will struggle to convert their chances. But with 20 points on the board and a solid home record, I can't see them struggling too much this season.
  

Racing Santander 3 - 2 Xerez

(0-1) 3' Bermejo, (1-1) 25' Lacen, (2-1) 48' Arana, (2-2) 68' Antoñito, (3-2) 82' Xisco

• Same old story for Xerez as they become the first away team to lose at the Sardinero this season. I'll take some comfort in the fact that they scored two away from Chapín, and put up a mighty good fight. But the truth is they simply don't have the quality to compete in the Primera Divisíon.
  
• Mario 'The Gladiator' Bermejo put Xerez ahead just after kick-off, but the signalled the start of Santanders procession towards the three points. Antoñito gave Xerez hope as he struck the goal to make it 2-2, but their defence went missing yet again as Xisco headed in Santanders late winner.
  
• Miguel Angel Portugal is doing a sterling job at Racing and has managed to lift them out of the danger zone. Meanwhile, 'Cuco' Ziganda is under intense pressure. Plenty of Xerecistas are calling for his head, but I honestly don't believe anyone else could do much better in his position. Although why he persists with Abel and Bergantiños is beyond me. To survive in this division you need a half-decent defence and a goalscorer. Xerez have neither.
  

Getafe 2 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 38' Albín, (2-0) 68' Albín, (2-1) 81' Juanlu

• Two goals from young Uruguayan Juan Albín were enough to send Getafe into the top half of the table, only 5 points off the European spots. Him and Pedro Leon carried their team to victory, with Leon in particular sensational down the right side.
  
• Míchel can be happy with how the season is panning out for his Getafe side. Eighth in the league and still in the Copa del Rey. The club from Madrid has become the new breeding ground for young managers. Quique, Schuster and Michael Laudrup have all passed through the gates of the Coliseum. How long will Míchel last at Getafe? Not long if he keeps this up.
  
• Tenerife will be quietly content with their battling display but two lapses of concentration cost them dear. First was keeper Aragoneses misjudging a corner; the second was the fault of dallying defender Manolo Martínez. Criminal at this level and they find themselves 2 points from the relegation zone.
  

Real Valladolid 1 - 1 Malaga

(0-1) 34' Duda, (1-1) 68' Jesús Gámez (o.g)

• Both teams were desparate for the win, so it was only to be expected that the game would end in a stalemate. Málaga now havn't won since the first day if the season, and quite how Muñiz is still in a job is a mystery, especially with the fans having started to call for his head some time ago.
  
• Real Valladolid perhaps shaded it on the day, with Portuguese striker Diego Costa easily securing man-of-the-match. They now find themselves in the middle of a eight-team group from 11th down to 18th; all within four points from the last relegation spot. It sure is tight down there.
  
• Málaga came out all guns blazing in the first half, but only had Dudas 34th minute goal to show for it at the break. The second half belonged to Real Valladolid, but in the end it was an own goal that put them on level terms. Both teams are definite relegation candidates.
  

Almería 1 - 1 Deportivo la Coruña

(1-0) 58' Uche, (1-1) 74' Pablo Álvarez

• An entertaining match that saw plenty of opportunities but only two goals. Uche scored a cracking header and Pablo Álvarez finished off a scintillating move from Deportivo. Lotinas three substitutes all played a part in the goal. Hugo Sanchez is being lynched for a lack of substitutions.
  
• But to be fair to the Almería manager he got his tactics spot on, stiffling Deportivo with his players asserting pressure in all areas of the pitch. But a lack of fresh legs towards the end saw Almería tire horribly. Hugo could be given the boot soon if his presidents post-match interview is anything to go by. Christmas is fast approaching and La Ligas fat cats are getting nervous.
  
• Deportivo, on the other hand, are flying high and remain in the UEFA Europa League spots. Today they had one decent attack and they scored from it. Apart from that they profited from a profligate Almería attack. They did what all good teams do, punctuate even when playing poorly.
  

Osasuna 0 - 1 Mallorca

(0-1) 60' Castro

• Gregorio Manzano for president! Today he sat Martí and Suarez infront of his back four and it worked wonders as Osasuna weren't given a sniff. Mallorca win their first match away from the ONO Estadi and are only three points from third. An unbelievable achievement for the islanders.
  
• 'Chori' Castros goal was an absolute corker, easily goal of the week. After a tasty run he cut in from the right and sent an arrow of a shot into Ricardos top-left corner. Unstoppable, and well worthy of the three points. But even more impressive were the Mallorca defence, thet fough fire with fire and repelled everything Osasuna threw at them.
  
• It's not quite panic stations yet for Camachos team, as they head that eight-team group who lie within four points of each other. But a couple more setbacks like this could see them drawn into a mammoth relegation fight with pretty much the whole bottom half of the table.
  

La Liga Results Matchday 14: Who needs Kaká and CR9?

Valencia 2 - 3 Real Madrid

(0-1) 54' Higuaín, (1-1) 60' Villa, (1-2) 65' Higuaín, (2-2) 80' Joaquín, (2-3) 83' Garay

• Many, including me, expected Valencia to spring a surprise today, especially with Kaká and CR9 missing. Real Madrid were having none of it as they put in a perfect counter-attacking display, lead by Higuaín, to stun 'Los Che'.  The only negative was the shattering news that Pepe might have suffered knee ligament damage after falling awkwardly in the first half.
  
• David Villa got his goal but it was to no avail as Gonzalo Higuaín proved he is just as lethal in the area with two brilliantly taken goals. Benzema set up the first with a lovely chipped cross and had a busy night, always offering an outlet upfront and hounding the Valencia defence. All that's failing him right now is the final pass or shot, but that will come with time.
  
• Valencia fought back twice but seemed a little out of sorts in the second half after a lively opening. Mata and Pablo Hernandez couldnt quite get into the match, but that was probably down to solid defensive work from Arbeloa, Ramos and Lass. Iker Casillas had an absolute shocker with both Valencia goals, but Garay got him out of jail and sent Real Madrid 6 points clear of Unai Emerys team. Only two in it now? I fear so.
  

Barcelona 1 - 0 Espanyol

(1-0) 39' Ibrahimovic (p)

• The formbook was well and truly ripped up in this one as Espanyol gave as good as they got against their illustrious neighbours in a heated Catalan derby. Forlín and Parejo played blinders for the visitors as Iniesta and Xavi were squeezed out of the match, leaving Ibrahimovic to feed off scraps. The only thing Espanyol lacked was a presence upfront. They desparately need a goalscorer in January.
  
• Leo Messi was presented with his Ballon D'Or prior to kick off but he was sorely missed during the match. There had been a massive debate this week in Spain about who is most negatively affected: Barca without Messi or Real Madrid without Cristiano. Perhaps tonight gave a slight clue.
  
• Pep Guardiola has claimed that Baena had conceded that he did give away a penalty. I have my suspicions about that, as Xavi tripped himself up. Zlatan blanked out the controversy to smash in the pen. Has anyone noticed that all of his goals have come from first touches? Flicks, volleys, headers, pens and free-kicks. He is a sublime footballer.
  

Real Zaragoza 1 - 2 Athletic Bilbao

(0-1) 60' San Jose, (0-2) 81' Susaeta, (1-2) 91' Diogo

• Real Zaragoza are in deep trouble, especially as news broke minutes after the match that coach Marcelino had been given the boot. It seems the Zaragoza directors havn't learned their lesson from 2007/2008 when they went through four coaches and got relegated. Marcelino had been working miracles with what he had at his disposal. The defence is a laughing stock.
  
• But that won't bother Joaquin Caparros and his men as they continue their solid start to the season with a fine away win. Iker Muniain came on in the 58th minute with the score locked at 0-0. 25 mins later it was 0-2 after two inch perfect assists from the little star. What a future he has ahead of him.
  
• So what now for Real Zaragoza? Ex-player Jose Aurelio Gay takes temporary charge as they search a replacement. Money has to be made available to the new manager in January, as Ayala and Pavon just don't cut it at this level. Neither does Arizmendi upfront, but with limited funds they might have to make do.