Asif Hossain's Football Today | GOLTV Canada Blogs

Messi: We Don't Care What People Say

Asif Hossain — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 09:03:00 GMT

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While Real Madrid’s early La Liga lead has some thinking that Barcelona’s three-year grip on the Spanish crown will finally come undone, the world’s best footballer and Barca forward Lionel Messi, isn’t convinced.

"We know what we are capable of and how far we can go," said a defiant Messi ahead of Saturday’s El Clasico (Real Madrid v. Barcelona – 3:55 p.m. ET on GOL TV Canada).

RELATED: Xavi undeterred by points gap

"We really don’t care what people are saying. We’re staying cool, calm and collected. Nobody knows what this team is capable of better than we do."

Barcelona hasn’t lost to Real Madrid since 2008, which makes it hard to call them an underdog even though they enter the enemy grounds looking up from second place.

Normally, Bernabeu boss Jose Mourinho is good for a few words ahead of important matches, but the Madrid manager has kept an unusually low profile ahead of El Clasico.

"It is not in our heads yet," Mourinho said after Madrid’s 3-0 Champions League win over Ajax on Wednesday. "I can only say that some players starting against Ajax will also play against Barcelona, but I can't say how many."

Madrid has won 15 consecutive games in all competitions and could go six points clear of their title rival with a win, while maintaining a game in hand.

Xavi Undeterred By Points Gap

Asif Hossain — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:12:00 GMT

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Barcelona midfielder and perennial world’s top footballer nominee Xavi is prepared to face an aggressive Real Madrid at the Bernabeu for El Clasico on Saturday (live on GOL TV Canada at 3:55 p.m. ET).

"We will tighten up and play a very physical game," Xavi said on Wednesday, perhaps remembering the crunching tackles administered by Jose Mourinho’s Madrid side when the teams met in the Spanish Supercup back in mid-August. Barcelona edged Real Madrid 5-4 over two legs to win that trophy for the third consecutive year.

RELATED: Barca youngsters hit four past BATE

However, Barcelona enters this match looking up in La Liga standings, a rarity this late in the season. Real Madrid holds a three point edge in the league table with a game in hand.

Such is the importance of a Real Madrid-Barcelona encounter that it invites opinion from all over the football map. Ajax coach and former Barca defender Frank de Boer weighed in on El Clasico saying, "if Real win they have a huge advantage."

Indeed, a Madrid win would increase the gap to six points and potentially nine when Mourinho’s men execute the game in hand. Though any talk of the race being over if Madrid beats Barcelona was shrugged off by Xavi.
"The advantage means they are in a better position than us," the Ballon d’Or nominated playmaker said, "but in El Clasico it is not about the ranking. Anything can happen."

Saturday Schedule Congestion

Asif Hossain — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:07:00 GMT

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GOL TV Canada has five live matches scheduled for Saturday from Germany, Spain and Mexico. While one of Europe’s two marquee matchups on the day – Valencia v. Real Madrid – will be in the five-pack Saturday, the other big game from Germany – Bayern Munich v. Borussia Dortmund – will not be shown live.

The final 30 minutes of the German giants’ clash would overlap into the start of the Barcelona-Zaragoza match, scheduled for 1:50 p.m. ET. GOL TV Canada has committed to provide live coverage of Barcelona and Real Madrid games (with the exception of Round 38, where the best matchup would take precedence), which makes this an unfortunate scheduling conflict.

However, all is not lost. GOL TV Canada will be using social media to provide a live game cast from Bayern-Dortmund. Although the match will be shown in its entirety on delay at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday evening, GOL TV Canada’s Twitter account will provide live updates from the game starting from 12:30 p.m. ET, its scheduled kickoff time.

Anyone following Bayern-Dortmund on Twitter is encouraged to use #livebundesliga to participate at kickoff.

Saturday live matches
9:25A – B. M’Gladbach v. Werder Bremen
11:55A – Villarreal v. Real Betis
1:50P – Barcelona v. Real Zaragoza
3:55P – Valencia v. Real Madrid
8:20P – Irapuato v. Correcaminos

Saturday live Twitter cast
12:30P - Bayern Munich v. Borussia Dortmund - live page
Use hashtag #LiveBundesliga to join

Sunday live matches
11:25A – Hamburg v. Hoffenheim
1:55P – Atletico Madrid v. Levante

Barca Advocates Exile For Opponents

Asif Hossain — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:26:00 GMT

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Not only does Barcelona President Sandro Rosell refuse to share, he wants to exile clubs from La Liga altogether in an effort to deflect the negative spotlight placed on severe inequality in Spanish football.

On Monday, Rosell presented the idea for a smaller Spain at the International Football Arena conference, saying La Liga "has too many clubs."

"We have 20 and we should go down to 18, then to 16," Rosell told the audience as a solution to the financial problems faced by Spanish football teams. He also went on to demonize foreign ownership, but conceded that the lopsided television revenues enjoyed by Barcelona and Real Madrid will likely come to an end in the next three to five years.

Rosell’s concession on revenue sharing is disingenuous and it is betrayed by his other two ideas.

First, should La Liga shrink to 16 teams, Barcelona and Real Madrid will have to share less of the television revenue with a fewer total clubs. More importantly, it would also become easier to influence and manipulate teams with fewer members in opposition.

In a 16-team league, Barcelona and Real Madrid would need to influence only seven votes to always get their way at negotiations. Rosell must believe this is manageable. His club may be deep in debt, but the president can perform basic arithmetic. Winning seven votes from the opposition is cheaper than nine.

Second, if foreign ownership is restricted as Rosell suggests, smaller clubs will never catch up to the cumulative wealth gathered at Camp Nou and Bernabeu in recent years.

Up to this point, Rosell and his Real Madrid counterpart, Florentino Perez at the Bernabeu, have declined virtually all invitations to share television revenues. The two giants negotiate their own contracts, and are able to use that money to win titles and reach the lucrative UEFA Champions League every season, creating an even bigger financial gulf between themselves and the rest of Spain.

Without foreign ownership, the conditions will worsen for those already suffering under the current arrangement. Rosell and Perez are aware but unsympathetic and quite fearfully, don't wish to see a Manchester City type pop up in Spain to break its two-team supremacy.

The Barcelona president’s latest public sentiments are a part of continued efforts by his team and Real Madrid to keep La Liga a two-horse race with little resistance on or off the pitch. Shrinking La Liga by exiling teams will only strengthen Barcelona’s hand and Rosell knows it.

Rarity: La Liga Bullies Don't Get Their Way

Asif Hossain — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:13:00 GMT

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Mid-day kickoffs are the new fashion in Spain’s La Liga and right from the start on Sunday, November 6, one of the country’s global goliaths will be subjected to the experiment.

Real Madrid will take on Osasuna at 6 a.m. ET for those in North America. The match will be broadcast live here on GOL TV Canada. Last time the two teams met, Osasuna shocked Real Madrid 1-0 but that was in Pamplona where Karim Benzema (pictured) and co. shed tears along with valuable points in falling further behind Barcelona last season.

This will be the first time in 16-years that Real Madrid will endure such an early kickoff time. Last time was on September 3, 1995 away to Rayo Vallecano.

While the big clubs – namely Real Madrid and Barcelona – lobbied not to be included in the early kickoff plans, it seems this is one rare instance where the bullies of Spanish football didn’t get their way.

League President Jose Luis Astiazaran has stressed the change is important for "new avenues of revenue" and that "being the best (league) demands sacrifices." Astiazaran cited La Liga’s massive popularity in the Americas and Asia for pursuing the change.

Astiazaran was candid about the move and made no apologies for not favouring the big teams’ wishes. He said no one club will benefit or suffer more than others due to the early kickoff times. Showing favouritism would have been particularly thorny with smaller clubs already charging that Real Madrid and Barcelona profit unfairly from television revenues.

Live Matches This Weekend on GOL TV Canada

Saturday, November 5

10:20 a.m. – Dortmund v. Wolfsburg (Germany)
12:55 p.m. – Mallorca v. Sevilla (Spain)
4:55 p.m. – Botafogo v. Figueirense (Brazil)
7:15 p.m. – Cartagena v. Nacional (Colombia)

Sunday, November 6

6 a.m. – Real Madrid v. Osasuna (Spain)
11:20 a.m. – Augsburg v. Bayern Munich (Germany)
1:55 p.m. – Ath. Bilbao v. Barcelona (Spain)
3:55 p.m. – Getafe v. Atl. Madrid (Spain)

An earlier version of this article indicated Indios v. Cruz Azul would be shown Saturday at 9:20 p.m. ET. That match has been pulled from the calendar. GOL will be showing Pumas Morelos v. Irapuato on a delay Saturday at 11:30 p.m. ET.

Can Levante Bounce Back?

Asif Hossain — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:26:00 GMT

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After 10 rounds of La Liga all is well again in the world of Spanish football if you prefer business as usual.

Real Madrid and Barcelona are back occupying the top two slots of the Spain’s top flight, while Levante – surprise table toppers heading into the weekend – dropped to third after a 2-0 defeat to Osasuna.

Whether Levante can keep pace with the perennial top two will depend on how quickly they can bounce back. Their next challenge presents a delicious opportunity to make a statement. On Saturday, Levante competes in the Valencia Derby against its famous rival named for their town at the Mestalla.

Valencia sits two points back of its local competitor, and four behind Real Madrid (25-21). Barcelona is nestled between Real Madrid and Levante with 24 points.

Levante’s early round success has caught the imagination of the football world, even as far as North America and Malaysia. It’s not often the New York Times gushes about a Spanish club other than the ones that feature Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

At the other end of the football-mad spectrum, Malaysians that discuss a Suarez, usually speak of Liverpool and not the team that contains Luis’ namesake Ruben (pictured celebrating).

Spain has been a two-horse race every season since 2007/08, when Villarreal finished ahead of Barcelona in second place with Real Madrid comfortably winning the title. Incidentally, at the end of that season Levante’s players staged a famous in-game protest against their club for withholding wages.

Levante was relegated at the end of the 2008 campaign for finishing last in La Liga, but found their way back to the first division for the start of the 2010-11 season, finishing 14th in the table last year.

La Liga Presidents Spineless

Asif Hossain — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:30:00 GMT

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Presidents of poorer La Liga teams are failing to take Barcelona and Real Madrid to task on TV revenue deals off the pitch, but on it, through the first four rounds of the Spanish top flight, their players have shown some muscle.

For those who casually look at La Liga to only watch Barcelona and Real Madrid are learning a few new names in the early stages of the 2011/12 campaign.

Real Betis is at the top of the table with Paraguay international Roque Santa Cruz (pictured) enjoying a fine ‘remember me’ start while on loan from England’s Manchester City. Valencia sits second, showing equal measure attack and clinical defending against mighty Barcelona this week in a 2-2 draw. And Malaga’s rich Arab owner won’t mind that his Andalusian side completes the top three after four rounds ahead of European champion Barcelona.

RELATED: Dortmund, Real Madrid & Barca live on Saturday
RELATED: Latest international football news from GOL TV Canada

Those who are regular observers of La Liga know that this is where the best football in the world is played. Spain after all, is the reigning European and World Cup holder and producers of sensational international youth football results.

The disillusion sets in at club level where hamstrung by a raw deal and loose business practices, some of Spain’s big and moderate clubs have seen their brightest stars get plucked to shine in London, Manchester and Liverpool. Others like David Villa and Raul Albiol just made the short trip to the Catalan or Spanish capitals respectively to play for mega rich Barcelona and Real Madrid.

This season an acute jolt went through the non-wealthy when threatened by the players strike. Nobody could blame the footballers who were owed over $70 million (Cdn) in wages, but once the league resolved to make the payments and set up a fund to ensure future shortcomings, daggers were pointed toward the Camp Nou and Bernabeu, rightly holding Barcelona and Real Madrid responsible for the have-not status of the affected sides.

Then 12 teams that met in Seville in mid-September to force a more equal sharing of the revenues. However, their spirit has been sapped in recent days in a meeting with Presidents of Barcelona and Real Madrid, which was vividly and heartbreakingly documented by Sid Lowe this week in Sports Illustrated.

Nobody suggested that every team gets treated equally and receives the same amount of revenue, but presently Barcelona and Real Madrid earn three times more than Valencia by negotiating its own TV deals rather than as a collective with their La Liga counterparts. Teams smaller than Valencia have an even bigger hill to climb. That disparity adds up over multiple seasons to the point of existential threats for many of Barca and Real’s competitors. This is not a sustainable model and doesn’t invite serious new investors, unlike in England, which has become highly competitive in the top half of the table due to a workable revenue-sharing structure that attracts wealthy buyers.

It remains to be seen if the players on smaller teams will continue to show more of a spine in coming weeks than their club Presidents that refuse to hold Barcelona and Real Madrid accountable over gross inequality.

La Liga & Players "Far Apart"

Asif Hossain — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:49:00 GMT

While Germany's Bundesliga is flourishing and Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC tries to put together a run in the CONCACAF Champions League, one regular program missing from our GOL TV Canada lineup is Spain’s La Liga.

The Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE) has taken a stand against clubs who have been spending well beyond their means in Spain. Far from the glamour of Real Madrid and Barcelona, small, medium and even some other large clubs such as Valencia have been struggling to make ends meet.

Money mismanagement has caused many teams to go into administration, leaving hundreds of players without wages. The first week of La Liga fixtures were canceled and it looks likely that the same fate will fall on this weekend’s matches, unless players are paid the $70 million (U.S.) owed in wages, and a deal is reached to avoid such issues in the future.

Spanish League (LFP) officials will meet with AFE representatives again on Tuesday but Monday’s talks in Madrid didn’t sound promising according to several European and financial sources.

The AFE is looking for a sizeable guaranteed fund to compensate players should clubs fail to meet their financial obligations again. In addition, the players want to be able to break contracts should they go three months without compensation.

LFP has countered with a fund they claim will cover outstanding wages and address future grievances, but the figures presented by the league is viewed as "insufficient" by AFE president Luis Rubiales.

The gulf in agreement seemed publicly apparent on Monday when president of Levante UD, Francisco Javier Catala, said "something positive came from today’s meeting." A claim that was quickly refuted by Luis Gil from AFE, who said they were "far apart," according to Forbes.com.

We will have more on GOL TV.ca should the players and owners reach an agreement on Tuesday.

Ronnie, Benz And A Bit Of Fab

Asif Hossain — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:54:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will hosted the first leg on Sunday, which the clubs drew 2-2. The deciding return fixture takes place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both matches broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Tuesday, August 16

Cristiano Ronaldo feels he is owed a penalty from the first leg of the Spanish Supercup.

The Portuguese superstar told Marca "it was a clear penalty, no doubt about it," of an incident that saw Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes bring his right arm up to trip Ronaldo, as he went chasing for a winning goal during Sunday’s 2-2 first leg draw.

The teams play in the Supercup decider Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET live on GOL TV Canada.

Ronaldo (pictured) does have a legitimate case, but referee Fernando Teixeira overlooked multiple infractions, including potential punishments to Real Madrid’s Pepe and Marcelo for hacking fouls. Shortly after Ronaldo’s penalty claim, Barcelona’s Thiago was taken down in the Madrid area, also without a call.

The referee allowed the players a chance to settle the match. Neither team displayed angelic behavior but despite Real Madrid’s dominance, they were unable to overcome the individual quality of Barcelona goal getters David Villa and Lionel Messi.

Barca will likely play a stronger squad in Wednesday’s return leg with Gerard Pique, Xavi and possibly Pedro starting from the first whistle. All three of the regulars came on as second half substitutes.

Despite the possibility of a strengthened Barca lineup and the delicious partnership of Messi and Alexis Sanchez showing flashes of taking hold, Real’s Karim Benzema is confident Madrid will come out victorious on enemy soil.

"Two great teams faced each other, but honestly, Madrid deserved the win," Benzema was reported to have told AS on Tuesday.

"We did much more than Barca, but, hey, we know we have the chance to win tomorrow in Barcelona and lift the Supercup."

One question that has yet to be answered – and will likely be revealed ahead of Wednesday – is if new signing Cesc Fabregas will receive any minutes on his return to Camp Nou. It seems unfathomable that Barcelona coach and Fabregas’ mentor Pep Guardiola wouldn’t exercise this option to add another layer of thick emotion over one of the great rivalries or sport, politics and culture.

35,000 Turn Up To See Cesc

Asif Hossain — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 06:57:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will hosted the first leg on Sunday, which the clubs drew 2-2. The deciding return fixture takes place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both matches broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Monday, August 15

Imagine a medical appointment with 35,000 onlookers. That’s essentially what Cesc Fabregas experienced on Monday when the Spain international and local hero returned "home" to join Barcelona in front of cheering supporters.

The appointment with club physicians and subsequent unveiling completes what was widely reported on Friday, Fabregas was once again at the club where he grew up before making a move to Arsenal in 2003 as a 16-year old in search of first team football.

The deal could increase up to approximately $56 million (Cdn) for London-based Arsenal, should Barcelona continue to excel in the Champions League – which the reigning title holders seem to have every intention of doing.

Fabregas was in Barcelona Sunday night, with reports claiming he was staying in a hotel after arriving on a private plane, as news broke of the deal’s conclusion during halftime of the first leg in the Spanish Supercup.

Barcelona drew Real Madrid 2-2 at the Bernabeu and the return leg will be at the Camp Nou on Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET on GOL TV Canada.

The midfielder will wear the number four shirt, which was vacated by Thiago days earlier, further signaling that Fabregas’ arrival was imminent.

The Catalan hero thanked the masses in attendance to get a glimpse of him, admitting that he has been "waiting many days, months, years for this day."

"It's a very special day, to come home after eight years away. I am here to face the most incredible challenge of my life."

Fabregas could lift a trophy immediately upon his return to home soil should Barcelona get better of Real Madrid on Wednesday. It would be an ideal first day of work for the 24-year old. Fabregas was mentored at Camp Nou by current Barca coach Pep Guardiola.

Reports: Cesc To Attend El Clasico

Asif Hossain — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 03:06:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will host the first leg on Sunday, August 14 at 3:50 p.m. ET, with the return fixture taking place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both legs will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Saturday, August 13

The Cesc Fabregas saga may finally come to a conclusion within hours.

The Catalonia-born Arsenal captain is a former Barcelona youth player and had been rumoured to return to his teething grounds for years, after eight seasons in London.

The Spain international (pictured) is only 24-years old. Fabregas made his first team club debut at the age of 16 years and 177 days back in 2003 for Arsenal.

Barcelona coach and Fabregas mentor from his youth football days, Pep Guardiola, fell just shy of confirming that the deal was finalized on Friday.

"The prospects are good, but he’s still an Arsenal player. Otherwise I would confirm it," the Barca coach said as the world’s media focuses on the first leg of the Spanish Supercup set to take place on Sunday away to Real Madrid.

There are reports suggesting that Fabregas could be in the stands, and more outrageously, in the lineup on Sunday. Those rumours have been countered by others that claim Barcelona has asked the would-be Blaugrana player to remain in England until the deal is finalized on Monday.

Arsenal opens the English Premier League season in Newcastle on Saturday with Fabregas already out of the Londoners' lineup. The transfer is expected to be in the region of $56 million (Cdn).

Thiago Boasts Ahead Of Supercup

Asif Hossain — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:02:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will host the first leg on Sunday, August 14 at 3:50 p.m. ET, with the return fixture taking place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both legs will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Friday, August 12.

Maybe it's the foolishness of youth, or calculated mind games instructed by his manager Pep Guardiola, but Barcelona's 20-year old midfielder Thiago (pictured) made headlines on Friday when he proclaimed that the Catalans are the superior side and will win the Spanish Supercup.

"It's quite simple," Thiago offered, "I think Barcelona will win the trophy."

"Real Madrid are our biggest rivals and you never want to lose against them."

The intriguing Spanish rivalry will be played under heavy security at the Santiago Bernabeu, home of Real Madrid, in the first leg after several altercations between opposing fans during the clubs' five meetings last season in league, Copa del Rey and Europe. Barcelona won La Liga and Champons League, with Real Madrid taking the Spanish cup.

While Thiago was aggressive with his comments, Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo was more measured. He had a cracking season with 40 goals last year but on Friday shifted the spotlight from himself to the greater cause.

The Portuguese superstar told Marca "I'm not thinking about bettering my record from last year."

"I want to win silverware with the club and will do everything to achieve just that. That's what we are all working for."

On Thursday Barcelona learned that they could be without key midfielder Sergio Busquets and centre back Gerard Pique. Ronaldo chief rival for individual glory, Barca's Lionel Messi, skipped the club's U.S. tour after playing through the summer in Copa America, but is expected to start against Real at the Bernabeu on Sunday.

Busquets & Pique Pay A Price

Asif Hossain — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:07:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will host the first leg on Sunday, August 14 at 3:50 p.m. ET, with the return fixture taking place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both legs will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Thursday, August 11.

Barcelona could face Real Madrid in the first leg of the Spanish Supercup without midfielder Sergio Busquets (pictured) and defender Gerard Pique.

In a double-blow to the Catalans, Pique came off with an injury in the 2-1 friendly defeat to Italy on Wednesday. His replacement, club teammate Busquets, later hurt his knee according to sources in Europe.

According to Spain physio Juan Cota, Busquets' injury "doesn't seem to be too serious" but Pique has "a muscular problem ... he could recover in time for Sunday."

Pique's injury, combined with captain Carles Puyol's slow recovery from knee surgery, could open the door for Javier Mascherano to take on centre back duties. The holding midfielder arrived from Liverpool last season for roughly $35 million (Cdn) and has yet to cement a place ahead of a star-studded Camp Nou midfield. The middle of the park could get even more crowded should Cesc Fabregas finally complete his agonizing (for Arsenal fans) transfer from London.

Barcelona's attacking midfielder Xavi skipped the friendly, drawing criticism in some circles for allegedly choosing his club over country.

Bayern & Bayer Look To Recover

Asif Hossain — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:41:00 GMT

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Already into its second week while England and Spain lumber toward its opening days, Germany’s Bundesliga will be front and centre on GOL TV Canada this weekend.

On Saturday, Wolfsburg hosts Bayern Munich at 9:25 a.m. The next morning, Werder Bremen visits Bayer Leverkusen at 11:25 a.m.

Bayern Munich suffered a shocking start to its campaign. Aiming to restore the Bavarians atop the league table, Jupp Heynckes’ men stumbled out of the gate, losing 1-0 at home to Borussia Monchengladbach. Bayern’s biggest signing – $25 million (Cdn) – goalkeeper Manuel Neuer (pictured from his Schalke days last season) was left wearing the goat horns for his game-changing blunder.

The team's director of sport, Christian Nerlinger, hasn’t pointed the finger at Neuer, but at the team’s timid performance. Nerlinger told a Munich newspaper that Heynckes’ squad "(needs) to change things fundamentally and become more aggressive," adding that the players were "static" and must "push forward and score goals."

Wolfsburg fared much better in the opening round, riding a Patrick Helmes brace to a 3-0 victory over 10-man Cologne. The Wolves could put Heynckes under increased pressure by maximizing on its home opener at the Volkswagen Arena on Saturday.

Like Bayern, Bayer Leverkusen suffered an opening week defeat, going down 2-0 to Mainz. In another goalkeeper twist, Bayer’s Fabian Giefer became a story when he was concussed in the loss, later claiming that he has lost all memory of the last month of his life.

Leverkusen's regular keeper Rene Adler is out until late October and with Giefer's condition, Bayer has acquired 19-year old Bernd Leno on loan from Stuttgart to compete with David Yelldell, who was embarrassed in the German Cup first round, in a 4-3 loss to Dresden. The schedule gets heavy for Bayer in a hurry. The second place team from last season will need healthy bodies to compete in the UEFA Champions League group stage as well as the domestic competition.

Bremen opened the season with a comfortable 2-0 victory at home to Kaiserslautern. Markus Rosenberg scored both goals in the triumph. However, not all is steady at Weserstadion. Defender and captain Per Mertesacker has been targeted by Arsenal for a transfer to England, with a possible move gaining some steam.

Choosing Club Over Country?

Asif Hossain — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 09:27:00 GMT

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The Spanish Supercup pits the country's reigning La Liga (Barcelona) and Copa del Rey (Real Madrid) champions over two legs. The Bernabeu will host the first leg on Sunday, August 14 at 3:50 p.m. ET, with the return fixture taking place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou, Wednesday, August 17 at 4:55 p.m. ET.

Both legs will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Notes – Wednesday, August 10.

The Supercup - a precursor to the new Spanish season - will start with an El Clasico and as always, whenever Barcelona and Real Madrid get together they court controversy.

Days ahead of the two-leg Spanish Supercup set to start on Sunday, key players on both teams have pulled out of Spain’s midweek friendly against Italy.

League champion Barcelona, after finishing its three-week U.S. tour, saw midfield maestro Xavi pull out of the Spain squad. His action matched that of Copa del Rey winner and Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.

Both players have faced accusations that they care more about their respective clubs than country – a struggle that most top footballers face in balancing personal and national ambitions.

Malaga's Ignacio Monreal replaced Sergio Ramos in Vicente del Bosque's Spain squad ahead of the friendly. The player nicknamed 'Nacho' signed for $8.4 million (Cdn) from Osasuna in the summer.

Last year Barcelona beat Sevilla 5-3 over two legs to claim their second straight Supercopa.

Despite their near-invincible status in Spain, Barcelona's enthusiasm remains muted ahead of the contest. It was Real Madrid, after all, that beat Barcelona to win Copa del Rey last season.

Barca forward Pedro (pictured) believes Madrid players are "really fired up now" and that there "will be a long and tough season" ahead. For the first leg at the Bernabeu, Pedro feels his side will "have to be very alert of (Real's) counter attacks."

The 'El Clasico' Of Germany

Asif Hossain — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:03:00 GMT

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Top rivals Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 will meet on Saturday in the German Supercup live on GOL TV Canada (2:25 p.m. ET).

Jurgen Klopp’s Dortmund is the reigning Bundesliga champion. The side ran away with the German league last season until cooling its jets late in the campaign, but still topping the table by seven points over Bayer Leverkusen.

The contest has been dubbed the ‘El Clasico’ of Germany by former West Germany sweeper, and current German football league executive, Holger Hieronymus.

On the Dortmund website Klopp (pictured) said "the cup is actually more beautiful than I thought," and understatedly mentioned he "would like to take it with (him) to Dortmund."

The game is being played at Gelsenkirchen’s Veltins-Arena, home of Dortmund’s opponent Schalke 04.

For Schalke, life begins without goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, easily the most popular player at the club last season. The sought-after keeper changed sides to Bayern Munich in the offseason. Schalke acquire 22-year old Ralf Fahrmann as a possible long term solution to fill the void left by Neuer.

The Gelsenkirchen club’s sporting director, Horst Heldt, has indicated more buys could be on the way to address many areas of help identified by manager Ralf Ragnick after the Schalke slumped to an unacceptable 14th place finish in the Bundesliga last season.

One of the players Heldt and Ragnick are targeting is 23-year old French striker Nolan Roux from Brest in Ligue 1. It’s been reported that the Bundesliga outfit is facing competition from England’s Liverpool for Roux’s signature, while Brest is unwilling to part with the talented youngster.

Other live matches on GOL TV Canada on Saturday are Chicago v. Manchester United (World Football Challenge - 5 p.m.) and Kansas City v. Toronto (MLS - 8:30 p.m.). On Sunday it's live Brasileiro at 2:55 p.m. - Fluminense v. Palmeiras.

The Supercup will be replayed on GOL TV Canada on Sunday at 1:30 a.m. and Monday at 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. All times eastern. Full Weekly Schedule

Toronto Troubled In Texas

Asif Hossain — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 23:30:00 GMT

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Toronto FC surrendered two goals in the second half on way to suffering its sixth away defeat in 10 games this season - a 2-0 loss to Houston Dynamo on Saturday.

Reds' backline unraveled inside the opening five minutes of the second half when an Alan Gordon penalty claim was quickly turned into a Houston counter-attack, from which Danny Cruz buried his first goal of the season to give the Dynamo a 1-0 lead. The home team doubled its advantage nine minutes from time when Geoff Cameron popped in unmarked from a set-piece to seal the maximum points for Houston in its 2-0 victory.

Although rarely entertaining, Toronto displayed defensive commitment in the first 45 to keep Houston off the score sheet. One mishap in the Reds backline from the 31st minute will carry over to the next game as Richard Eckersley picked up a caution that condemns him to suspension on July 20 for card accumulation. That match is widely anticipated as the debut of new designated players Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans.

Houston learned from its 2-1 loss to Toronto on May 7 at BMO Field and effectively neutralized Joao Plata and Jacob Peterson by allowing fullbacks Kofi Sarkodie and Corey Ashe to push forward. Toronto struggled with Houston's 60%-65% possession throughout the match, in which the Dynamo also had six shots on target. In the face of that pressure Toronto was unable to gain momentum or test Houston keeper Tally Hall.

Stefan Frei cut an understandably dejected figure at the end of this match. The keeper did his best to keep Toronto from conceding in the second half by first getting a hand on a Will Bruin shot, then later making a well positioned double save to keep Toronto in with a fighting chance. Both saves were followed by Houston goals on which he could do little.

With returning striker Alan Gordon tactically and at times physically marked out by an organized Houston backline, Reds' best offensive chances came from substitute Nick Soolsma. In the second half he cut through a series of Houston defenders before running out of space inside the Dynamo box and later unleashed a shot that went just wide of Hall's far post. Toronto did not muster much of an offensive effort beyond Soolsma's attempts.

Toronto FC supporters have clamoured for high end reinforcements all season to turn Toronto's fortunes around and it could happen on July 20 against Dallas. That's the match when new signings Torsten Frings and Danny Koevermans are first eligible to play for Toronto. This will be a stiff test for the newcomers to start their MLS careers. Dallas last visited BMO Field in the 2010 MLS Cup Final and continues to be one of the top teams in the league in 2011 with 34 points from 19 games. The Reds will have an 11-day break before the Dallas contest, which should help many of its injured starters.

After Saturday Toronto remains one of five teams that have yet to win on the road in 2011. After putting in a stellar effort last week in league and cup wins over Vancouver, TFC slumped to two defeats, leaving New York and Houston empty handed this week. The Reds have just 13 league games left this season to make a charge at one of the 10 MLS Cup Playoffs spots. They will have to share that focus with upcoming encounters in the CONCACAF Champions League preliminary round (July 27 & August 2) and the CCL group stage should they get through.

Following the loss head coach Aron Winter indicated that he is on the market for help in Toronto's league and continental ambitions. He bluntly admitted the team is lacking quality without specifying areas and that his only goal is to win. The window to add new players officially opens July 15.

FIFA Will Resist Change

Asif Hossain — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:47:00 GMT

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Former CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice President Jack Warner’s resignation is not a surprise given the heights probed in recent corruption allegations. With President Sepp Blatter re-elected to his post, only a high profile sacrifice could get FIFA out of the negative spotlight. It also won’t shock too many observers that the organization is quickly going back to business as usual.

Warner’s resignation, and the subsequent end to the investigation on bribery accusations for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, allows FIFA to sweep the matter under the rug.

Blatter has lost a valuable ally in Warner, but he won’t be starved for support. Last month Blatter won his re-election unopposed and since the game has made a lot of influential people and federations very wealthy, a change in FIFA culture isn’t on the agenda for many. The few who loudly demand an end to FIFA's present day practices will continue to be in a minority unless Blatter himself sees fit to make the organization more transparent. He would do so at his personal and supporters' peril. This is not a viable option.

What Blatter will miss in Warner is an ability to corral votes for many of the President’s causes such as resisting changes to the game through the addition of technology, and more controversially and topically, awarding the World Cup to countries – Russia and Qatar – that seemed like wild outsiders prior to the bidding process.

Blatter will quickly solidify support elsewhere.

For CONCACAF, the loss of Warner will create an acute vacuum in the organization’s leadership structure. Who will take the helm could depend greatly on wielding the greatest influence over the very people who kept Warner in charge since 1990. Warner allegedly did that through favours and bribes – which is nothing unusual at an executive level. If a reformer believes he or she can go about things in a more honest fashion, Warner has some advice.

"Payments throughout the CONCACAF and the regions and so on over the last 30 years have been done for all kinds of things," Warner said on Monday according to Bloomberg. "It’s not unusual for such things to happen and gifts have been around throughout the history of FIFA."

"What’s happening now for me is hypocrisy at the highest level."

There is some validity to Warner’s charge of hypocrisy. Gifts are a normal part of currying favour at FIFA but someone – a well known figure – had to be ousted to keep the system from crumbling.

Player Defections Must End

Asif Hossain — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:01:00 GMT

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Canada failed to score a single goal from open play over three group matches at the Gold Cup. At no point did they look convincing as a contender - which is how they were billed - for this tournament. The tactics were wrong, the desire invisible and the creativity was about as pronounced as the lone "Ca-na-da" chant that could be heard from a few dozen incredibly faithful traveling supporters in Tampa and Kansas City.

This team and competition, it has to be said, once again failed to receive even moderate media coverage in Canada to bring this underachievement to the forefront of Canadian consciousness.

Canadians will only care about their country on the international stage if it manages to put in at least a decade’s worth of decent outcomes, including one or two World Cup appearances. This can only be achieved by targeted spending.

The Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) has to find ways to keep its most talented players from defecting to other countries, and that will require them to spend money. A generation after Owen Hargreaves put the three lions on his chest Canada has lost the services of Jonathan de Guzman, Asmir Begovic, Teal Bunbury and now just waiting for David Hoilett to make a LeBron James-like decision.

Arguably, Canada would be very competitive with those talented bodies complementing the current squad. Inarguably, those "traitors" found the idea of representing Canada equally as unappealing as the non-traitor Canadians that refuse to attend any of Canada’s matches in our cities.

Canada could get to that very necessary, magical decade of achievement by making a few cold, pragmatic, strictly financial, probably uneven to politically incorrect and wholly unemotional investment decisions.

It's time for CSA to appeal to the next generation of Canadian talent by providing great facilities, trainers, rewards and perks. In order to do this, they will have to make difficult choices as to their funding formula. There is no other way. The government isn’t handing out cash unless hockey skates are involved, and a plethora of private sponsors are nowhere to be found in a country that still believes soccer is just a great exercise for kids.

If the CSA makes the right decisions - painful as they may be - and gets Canada to the group stage of the World Cup, national pride will elevate Canada’s standing at home and an $8 million reward awaits to nurse all affected parts of Canadian soccer back to health. That sum quickly doubles in the next round or the following World Cup – a great return on investment for any unpopular sacrifices the CSA may need to make to get there.

TFC Sends Eight To U17 World Cup

Asif Hossain — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:12:00 GMT

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TORONTO - Director of Toronto FC Academy, Stuart Neely, was beaming with pride Tuesday afternoon when it was revealed that eight TFC players had been named to the Canada squad for the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

"We at Toronto FC are extremely proud of the players and their accomplishment," said Neely.

"We know how hard they work here and the competition within our team for spots, so we know they have earned this right to represent Canada on the world stage."

The eight players named to the 23-man roster are goalkeepers Quillan Roberts and Chad Bush; defenders Tyler Pasher and Parker Seymour; midfielders Omari Morris, Sergio Camargo, and Michael Petrasso; along with forward Jay Chapman.

Complementing the Toronto eight, Canada U-17 head coach, Sean Fleming, looked to Vancouver’s youth side for six players and drew another three from the Montreal Impact.

Neely said he speaks with Fleming "four to five times a month" and that makes the selection process easier for both parties. Neely and Toronto FC fully back Fleming and the national team.

"Sean is also doing this across the country. I am sure everyone is supportive of our national program and we wish them the very best of luck."

Former Toronto FC Academy player Keven Aleman has been named to Fleming’s squad. The teenager did not sign an amateur contract with the BMO Field side to pursue opportunities in Europe. Aleman remains without a club.

Canada’s matches in Mexico – the host country – will begin on June 19 against Uruguay. The other two opponents in Canada’s group are England and Rwanda.

Come Out For Canada

Asif Hossain — Fri, 27 May 2011 14:28:00 GMT

Canada supporters recently took the initiative to film a three minute video imploring Canadians to "support local soccer" (which is the name of the web clip). They used local soccer journalists, bloggers and supporters alike who made a united appeal asking for the country to get behind their team, Canada.

Everyone here at GOL TV Canada is in agreement with the chorus of independent Canadian voices that came together for that spot – which you may have seen on the video screen at BMO Field during the last Toronto FC match. This video was timely, produced ahead of the June 1 BMO Field friendly – Canada v. Ecuador – as the national team warms-up for the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Toronto has a proud and rich multicultural heritage. The "All For One" motto used by Major League Soccer club Toronto FC lends to the idea of different football traditions from world over coming together in the city to get behind its local team. It’s now time that this philosophy extended to the Canadian national soccer team with the same passion and loyalty that fans show for the Reds at BMO Field.

Canada’s recent soccer history has been difficult for the country. It hasn’t made the World Cup since 1986, an entire generation of Canadian football has passed since the last major trophy, the 2000 CONCACAF Gold Cup, and until Stephen Hart was appointed head coach in 2009, the Canadian team was actually going backwards.

Too often Canadian stadiums are filled with flags and jerseys of opposition countries, its best young talent regularly defects to nations of convenience to which they have weaker ties, and surely these factors have led to a self-defeating mentality that’s heavily weighing down Canada’s soccer spirit. It certainly hasn’t helped Canada in the World Cup qualifying table.

This year Canada has a chance to make its mark at the Gold Cup. Fielding perhaps the best team since 2007, players such as Atiba Hutchinson of PSV Eindhoven and Simeon Jackson (pictured) of soon-to-be English Premier League side Norwich City, are expected to provide plenty of entertainment. While Canadians wait on the likes of Blackburn forward David Hoilett to decide which nationality he wants to pursue; and shelve the disappointment of Teal Bunbury rejecting the Maple Leaf for the American shirt, Canada can be proud of Hutchinson, Jackson, Toronto's own Julian de Guzman and a whole host of other names on the 23-man squad. A strong performance at the Gold Cup will build momentum for 2014 World Cup qualifying matches.

It’s time to start fresh with Canada, just as Toronto did in 2007 when it threw away past disappointments of top flight club football - when teams came and went - and embraced its Reds. The national team travels to Detroit to begin their 2011 Gold Cup quest on June 7 versus the United States. The renewal can begin six days earlier on June 1 at BMO Field. It is no secret that hundreds of thousands participate in or follow soccer in Toronto. It's time for them to get behind the other home team on June 1. That team is Canada.

Here is the supporter powered video:

Where To Watch Today's Copa Del Rey Final

Asif Hossain — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:17:00 GMT

Today marks the much anticipated Copa Del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid. It is the first time in 21 years that the two teams have contested a domestic cup final. This is the second installment of four matches between the teams between league, cup and Champions League.

In pregame news, Barcelona defender Carles Puyol is a doubt for the final. Read the preview

You can watch the game LIVE on GOL TV starting with the pre-game show at 2:30 p.m. Kick-off is at 3:25 p.m. The game will also be available in high definition on www.goltv.ca for $3.99 and also at Real Sports Bar & Grill in HD.

GOL TV Canada PRODUCING IN HD

All Major League Soccer matches, as well as most matches from overseas, are being produced in crystal clear High Definition including the 21 Toronto FC games on GOLTV Canada. Canada's only 24-hour soccer channel is working hard with its distributors on satellite and cable to make HD viewing available. Please contact GOLTV Canada or your TV service provider for more information

Eckersley Feeling Fit & Ready

Asif Hossain — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:39:00 GMT

Toronto FC had a full training session at Cherry Beach on Tuesday morning where new signing, fullback Richard Eckersley, trained with the first team.

The 22-year old Englishman on loan from Burnley said he sees "great team spirit" at BMO Field since arriving and that he is "ready to play."

"Wherever the gaffer thinks I can fit in, I'm ready to go on."

As for his fitness, Eckersley believes he can log minutes this Saturday against Columbus but cautions "you don't really know how match fit you are until you play."

Head coach Aron Winter has monitored Eckersley for two days. On Monday the defender had a workout with the reserves (who had their match in Downsview canceled Sunday morning due to extreme weather conditions), and Winter felt the former Manchester United youth player "looked good" in his system.

Winter and the Reds are ready to move on from last Saturday's disappointing start in a 3-0 loss to D.C. United. Toronto conceded two goals in the first 10 minutes to opportunistic frontmen Chris Pontius and Charlie Davies.

"Morale is good," said the head coach, "we've spoken about the way we reacted after the goals."

"They were not completely focused, how that can happen - I was surprised."

Injury concerns have weighed on Winter's mind. Defender Adrian Cann left Saturday's match early with bruised ribs but Winter believes the Canadian international should be on track for a swift recovery.

As for attacking options, Winter says he will learn more about the condition of Alan Gordon (who missed the past two games) on Tuesday afternoon. On the status of winger Alen Stevanovic, Toronto will "have to be careful," according to the coach, as the Reds enters a very busy period with seven games in 21 days that includes trips to Edmonton, Seattle and Dallas.

East Tightens Early In 2011

Asif Hossain — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:39:00 GMT

The bad news for Toronto FC in the league table after the past weekend’s 3-0 defeat to D.C. United is that it dropped five spots in the Eastern Conference standings.

The not-so-bad and slightly encouraging news is that second to fourth place teams are only two points ahead of seventh spot Toronto. East-leading Philadelphia drew its match and failed to pull away by any more than a manageable four points.

The East could remain a close fight throughout the 2011 season from top to bottom. Unlike the Western Conference where Salt Lake, Colorado, Los Angeles and Dallas (when they get their act together) can create a gulf between the elite and the rest of the region, the East doesn’t have a defined leader as of yet. Therefore, it’s important for teams to get points. In this scenario even draws can prove increasingly important for a view to postseason.

Week 5 MLS Roundup

Toronto kicked off the fifth week of MLS regular season action with a scoreless midweek draw against Los Angeles. Both teams played again at the weekend. Toronto lost to D.C. United 3-0 and LA Galaxy made the best of extra day’s rest in the midst of a three-game road trip to beat Chicago 2-1.

In the other Wednesday match Salt Lake beat their Rocky Mountain rival Colorado 1-0 in a contest of 2009 and reigning MLS Cup champions. The Utah club could add further glory this week in the first leg of the 2010-11 CONCACAF Champions League Final against Mexico’s Monterrey. Salt Lake’s CCL journey went through Toronto in the group stage in 2010.

Portland Timbers grabbed two successive wins in the first ever matches at their brand new Jeld-Wen Field this week. On Thursday they beat Chicago 4-2 – the first of the Fire’s two losses this week – and Sunday the Timbers did away with Dallas 3-2.

On Saturday Philadelphia drew Seattle 1-1, Vancouver played Chivas USA to a nil-nil final, New York got a small measure of revenge against San Jose for 2010 MLS Cup Playoffs exit by rattling the Quakes 3-0 at Red Bull Arena and Columbus – Toronto’s next opponent – beat Kansas City 1-0 at home.

Sunday’s third match was a tilt between 2006 & 2007 MLS Cup Final opponents Houston and New England, with the Texas side taking maximum points from a 1-0 victory.

Winter & Mariner Discuss Future Plans

Asif Hossain — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 11:42:00 GMT

Toronto FC head coach and technical director Aron Winter was a guest on The Soccer Show Thursday evening where he was joined by the club's director of player development Paul Mariner. The TFC pair chatted about football for the full hour with Sportsnet Radio FAN 590 personalities Nigel Reed and Bob Iarusci.

Winter, along with his first assistant coach Bob De Klerk and Mariner were brought together in January of 2011 to reshape the club with a new philosphy and culture at BMO Field. Winter reflected on the union and conveyed that honesty was most important to their partnership.

"It's very simple," said Winter, "we came the three of us in January and we sat down with each other. We are honest ... we discuss everything the three of us, what we want, what we think."

"It was tough for me at first. Very new to the league, there are so many rules. It takes a bit of time and (it's) a different mentality."

Mariner admitted that things such as the SuperDraft and salary cap are challenges for those who prefer the European style and he had a task, as the official with the greatest MLS experience, to prepare his new associates.

"The (SuperDraft) is a difficult concept to get a grasp on. But the great thing about Aron and Bob is that they have a fantastic eye for talent."

On the subject of the SuperDraft - the traditional MLS style of youth player distribution - Mariner indicated he wasn't very enthused this year.

"I think the talent pool has thinned. I don't think the combine was that strong this year ... with more teams drafting, the talent pool isn't quite there."

A solution to this for Toronto, both men agreed, is much closer to home.

"There's a lot of talent in (Ontario) and we are reaching out to affiliated clubs," Mariner told the hosts and credited Winter. "Aron's giving kids an opportunity to step in. The head coach is saying 'we believe in you.' When Oscar (Cordon) came on he looked like he fit in."

18-year old Toronto-born Cordon made his professional debut on Wednesday night against Los Angeles Galaxy in a high profile match with international attention. Toronto's next match is on Saturday night at 7 p.m. against D.C. United - their third game in seven nights.

Winter praised Cordon noting his performance is "a good sign for the future." The coach also revealed that the club is looking at recruiting would-be stars at under-15 and under-13 levels in the near term, but for him "the ideal age is under-11" to capture budding football talent.

Mariner stressed the importance of growing more than just great soccer players by turning kids entrusted to the club into men that their parents and guardians can be proud of.

"Yes we want to create a footballer but we are also going to create a whole person."

Education will be a key component of the Toronto FC Academy experience, a realistic Mariner exclaimed, because not everyone will be able to become top flight internationals like himself and Winter.

"We have a vision for the club. The Academy is very very important to us."

The New Madrid Master

Asif Hossain — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:54:00 GMT

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Real Madrid has a new master. Never mind that the club is endowed with two of the greatest talents in world football in Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka – the dreams of Los Blancos may hinge on the development of and around 22-year old Mesut Ozil.

According to reports from Spain on Wednesday, the third-generation Turkish-German from Gelsenkirchen, received praise of the highest order from Bernabeu legend Emilio Butragueno.

The former Spain and Madrid striker compared Ozil to Zinedine Zidane and claimed that the German "can have Real Madrid built around him for the next decade."

Butragueno went on to call Ozil’s play in his first season at Madrid "superb" and elaborated that the former Schalke and Werder Bremen man "understands the game well, when to quicken the tempo, when to slow it down, when to pass short and when to hit it long."

Anyone who watched Ozil at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa knew his future prospects were golden, but to receive a Zidane likeness from Butragueno, combined with the silky skills he has displayed on the pitch, elevates his reputation to a new level.

Butragueno believes, and the Merengues faithful certainly hope, that Ozil may be the key to solving Barcelona’s three-year dominance in Spain since the Pep Guardiola revolution at Camp Nou.

Ozil and Real Madrid will be live on GOL TV Canada on Saturday afternoon home to Hercules in the second match of back-to-back La Liga action. GOL's coverage from Spain and Germany continues throughout the weekend, concluding with a difficult away match for La Liga leader Barcelona away to Sevilla.

At midweek, GOL will have the first match of the 2011 Major League Soccer season from Seattle, where Los Angeles pays a visit. The North American theme will continue the next day with a CONCACAF Champions League first leg encounter between Mexican sides Monterrey and Cruz Azul.

Live Matches in the week ahead (as of March 11, 2011):

Saturday, March 12
La Liga – 11:55 a.m. Almeria v. Atletico Madrid
La Liga – 1:55 p.m. Real Madrid v. Hercules

Sunday, March 6
Bundesliga – 10:25 a.m. Mainz 05 v. Bayer Leverkusen
La Liga – 1:55 p.m. Villarreal v. Sporting Gijon
La Liga – 3:55 p.m. Sevilla v. Barcelona

Tuesday, March 15
MLS – 9:30 p.m. Seattle v. Los Angeles

Wednesday, March 16
CCL – 10:00 p.m. Monterrey v. Cruz Azul

Those Pesky Signal Losses

Asif Hossain — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:09:00 GMT

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After some digging we think we have gotten to the bottom of those pesky, more frequent than normal signal losses that affected three live matches from Spain for roughly 10-15 minutes each this past week. It turns out the culprit was the sun.

Yes, the energy source that gives us life also caused GOL TV Canada viewers to miss Karim Benzema’s second goal in Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Racing Santander on Sunday (in the picture Benzema caputres perfectly our frustration when the signal went kaput).

One of the engineers at our Lake Shore studio explained that, "twice a year (spring and fall) satellites experience transmission issues as the sun passes behind them causing complete or partial signal loss."

"We are currently at the end of the Spring Sun Outage Period which would explain the signal issues we’ve been having the past week."

Moreover, this was actually predicted, but not communicated, and therefore we were unable to let viewers know to expect these higher than normal interruptions.

From March 2-6 signal loss was predicted for roughly the exact times during which GOL lost its feed from the source.

We sometimes experience signal loss due to heavy weather at the source, but this past week was of particular nuisance due to the solar outage.

This also explains why some illegal online streams weren’t affected. Only those providers that use the same satellite service to air these matches experienced identical interruption.

The good news is that Sunday was the last predicted day of spring outage and we very much hope that these interruptions are now behind us – at least until we can let viewers know about the fall.

Pressure Mounts On Bayern

Asif Hossain — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:02:00 GMT

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GOL TV Canada's live weekend coverage for March 5-6 features Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has urged calm despite Bayern Munich suffering two straight home defeats in league and cup.

The defending Bundesliga champions have conceded that they won’t contest Borussia Dortmund for the league title this year, but their exit from the German Cup semifinal dispensed by Schalke was another bitter blow in recent days.

Bayern head coach Luis van Gaal (pictured) is under major scrutiny and one would imagine that his future becomes even more tenuous should Hannover force a third straight loss on Saturday (9:25 a.m. live on GOL TV Canada).

Hannover sits third in Bundesliga, but a Bayern victory at AWD-Arena would allow the Bavarian visitors to leap over their hosts.

The other two live games on Saturday takes GOL viewers from Germany to Spain, where Barcelona hosts Real Zaragoza, followed by Atletico Madrid v. Villarreal.

After surviving a scare at Valencia and leaving with maximum points, Barcelona maintains its seven-point lead atop La Liga. Meanwhile, searching for a European spot, Atletico will want to send a message against Villarreal, a team that’s firmly holding onto the final Champions League place.

On Sunday the Spanish coverage continues with back-to-back live matches. It starts with Sevilla paying a visit to Athletic Bilbao, followed by Racing Santander receiving Real Madrid.

Bilbao and Sevilla are tied on 38 points in sixth and seventh places respectively. The encounter could prove vital for an Europa League place next season, though with 12 rounds to play and seven points separating fifth to 11th, nobody can say for sure where the chips will fall.

In the second match, Racing will have to contend with a Merengues side coming off a 7-0 demolition of Malaga. Real Madrid will travel without Ronaldo, now nursing an injury picked up in that Malaga menace.

Live Matches this weekend (as of March 4, 2011):

Saturday, March 5, 2011
Bundesliga – 9:25 a.m. Hannover v. Bayern Munich
La Liga – 1:55 p.m. Barcelona v. Real Zaragoza
La Liga – 3:55 p.m. Atletico Madrid v. Villarreal

Sunday, March 6, 2011
La Liga – 12:55 p.m. Athletic Bilbao v. Sevilla
La Liga – 2:55 p.m. Racing Santander v. Real Madrid

The Weekend Fiver

Asif Hossain — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:32:00 GMT

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Five live matches this weekend and two of which will test Barcelona’s five point lead atop La Liga. The Catalans will travel to Mallorca where The Vermilions have conceded only eight goals at home from 12 league games – winning seven of them. This will be Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola’s first league match since finally extending his contract through to 2012.

Real Madrid has a slightly easier task at Deportivo La Coruna, which is 13th in the table, two places behind Real Mallorca. Madrid has 60 points to Barca’s 65 through 24 rounds and this week were once again linked to Chelsea forward Didier Drogba in a swap for Brazilian Kaka – which Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge dismissed as "fantasy football."

Given the recent form of Karim Benzema, Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho may not need another striker. He and general manager Jorge Valdano (pictured) seemed to have smoothed their once-thorny relationship over the French forward.

The other live La Liga match this weekend is Atletico Madrid v. Sevilla. Following a disappointing start to their current Spanish campaign, Atletico – reigning Europa League champions – is on the rise and with a win Satuday, will overtake Sevilla to possibly as high as seventh place.

The league race has tightened in Spain but it has yet to do the same in Germany. Borussia Dortmund continues to navigate 10-points clear of Bayer Leverkusen, but they’ll travel to Bavaria and face third place side Bayern Munich on Saturday.

Unfortunately, we do not have a live feed available for Bayern-Dortmund as GOLTV in the U.S. is airing it on a tape delay. The match will be shown in its entirety on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on GOL TV Canada.

Bundesliga’s second place team Bayer Leverkusen however, will be live on Sunday taking on Werder Bremen.

Also on Sunday, live Brazilian football returns with the Torneo Paulista. First place Palmeiras travels Sao Paulo, currently fifth after nine rounds.

Live Matches this weekend (as of February 25, 2011):

Saturday, February 26, 2011
La Liga – 11:55 a.m. Atletico Madrid v. Sevilla
La Liga – 1:55 p.m. Real Mallorca v. Barcelona
La Liga – 3:55 p.m. Deportivo La Coruna v. Real Madrid

Sunday, February 27, 2011
Bundesliga – 11:25 a.m. Werder Bremen v. Bayer Leverkusen
Torneo Paulista – 1:55 p.m. Sao Paulo v. Palmeiras

Barca, Borussia & Live Matches

Asif Hossain — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:39:00 GMT

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A week ago Barcelona was threatening to open up a double-digit gap on Real Madrid in La Liga. By the end of this weekend, that lead could be down to just two points.

Unbelievable as that sounds, Barcelona had a terrible week. Last weekend’s 1-1 draw to Sporting Gijon was compounded Wednesday with a 2-1 Champions League defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates. While the latter has no impact on the Spanish title, the air of invincibility surrounding the Catalans has temporarily dissipated with Madrid on the rise.

Barcelona players are quick to regain focus, with fullback Maxwell saying, "now we need to think about Bilbao (on Sunday). We need to get back to winning matches and playing well."

Manager Pep Guardiola (pictured) says he has "faith in (his) players."

"They have achieved too much in a short space of time for me not to have faith in them."

While the Spanish champions look to regain form, the German Bundesliga leader Borussia Dortmund returns to GOL TV Canada on Saturday. They too have struggled in their previous two league outings drawing Kaiserslautern and derby rival Schalke, but maintains a 10-point lead over Bayer Leverkusen who are featured in Sunday’s Bundesliga tilt.

A lot of attention has been paid recently to Dortmund teenager Mario Gotze, who is apparently the subject of interest from Manchester United. The 18-year old is from Bavaria, but lives with his parents near Westfalenstadion – now Signal Iduna Park – Dortmund’s home grounds.

Gotze has just two German international caps at his young age and has been hailed by Matthias Sammer as one of the great young players in Germany.

Live Matches this weekend (as of February 17, 2011):

Saturday, February 19, 2011
Bundesliga – 9:25 a.m. Borussia Dortmund v. St. Pauli
La Liga – 11:55 a.m. Valencia v. Sporting Gijon
La Liga – 1:55 p.m. Real Madrid v. Levante

Sunday, February 20, 2011
Bundesliga – 10:30 a.m. Bayer Leverkusen v. Stuttgart
La Liga – 12:55 p.m. Sevilla v. Hercules
La Liga – 2:55 p.m. Barcelona v. Athletic Bilbao

Malaga Needs More

Asif Hossain — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:21:00 GMT

It’s been reported from some time that a third Spanish club may be on the rise due to foreign ownership, but performance poor Malaga is looking a long way up from the foot of the league table.

The Anadlusian club came into foreign ownership when Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani – a Qatari royal – bought the club in the summer of 2010 for just under $50 million (Cdn).

The dream was to finish in the top 10 this season but 23 rounds from the startand a coach sacking later, The Anchovies are in last place and four points adrift of relegation safety.

In November, Malaga fired coach Jesualdo Ferreira and replaced him with the prized Manuel Pellegrini, who last year led Real Madrid to the second greatest La Liga points total in history. Unfortunately for him, Barcelona still managed to better that performance and the Chilean was replaced by Jose Mourinho.

A high profile coach has also been furnished with relatively big signings in the January transfer window in the form of Julio Baptista and Martin Demichelis among others.

Despite their struggles, there is still a belief at Estadio La Rosaleda that an influx of cash will change its fortunes in the near future, and eventually their beloved club will compete with Barcelona and Real Madrid at the other end of the table.

Pinning the hopes and dreams of the club on wealthy owners hasn't done wonders for Fulham or even Aston Villa in England, but it has for Chelsea and Manchester City. Climbing to those heights however takes a lot of investment. As strong and talented as he is, it will require a lot more than Baptista to break the barricade of invincibility that surrounds Barcelona and Real Madrid. For now, Malaga would do well to secure La Liga football for next season, as they only just managed last year finishing 17th.

Al Jazeera English (with an understandable affinity toward Qatar), filed this report (video below) giving hope to those who love Spanish football that a break from the two-team stranglehold at the top may be on the way.

The Greatest Of His Generation?

Asif Hossain — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:56:00 GMT

Brazilian great Ronaldo announced his retirement on Monday. For those of us who were impressionable teenagers when this man popped into the football scene in the mid-1990s, his name will always evoke great and interesting memories.

Today we fawn over Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and sometimes Wayne Rooney (that happens mostly in one country) – but in my opinion none of these men can match Ronaldo at his prime for pace, power and cunning.

It is of course, foolish to compare players of different generations. There are too many biases to work through, but there is one measurement that is undeniable – the World Cup.

Ronaldo was just 17 when Brazil lifted the trophy in 1994. The soon-to-be three-time FIFA World Player of the Year didn’t have a role to play in the shadows behind Romario and Bebeto that year in the United States, but his time would soon come.

In 1998 Ronaldo led Brazil to the World Cup Final. Regardless of the reported pre-match jitters, there was likely no stopping the only man who could match Ronaldo during the best years of his career, Zinedine Zidane (pictured here with Ronaldo at Real Madrid). Zidane's brace led France to its first World Cup title and Ronaldo had to face international rebuke.

Four years later and having recovered from a plethora of injuries in that time, the Brazilian was back at his best and this time there was no denying the Rio-born Ronaldo, when his country beat Germany in the final. Ronaldo led the tournament with eight goals, including two in the final to completely redeem himself from the disappointment he had carried for four years.

In the 2006 World Cup Ronaldo and Zidane met again in the quarterfinals. Though neither player scored, Zidane was influential in helping France to oust Brazil. Ronaldo left the tournament with three goals taking him to 15 in all World Cups, which stands as the highest total in history.

Ronaldo’s club football exploits have earned him many admirers, but critics too - particularly when he callously abandoned Inter Milan for the Bernabeu.

Footballers chasing bigger paycheques and individual glory is nothing new, but Ronaldo's exploits in the Green and Yellow of Brazil – an astonishing 62 goals in 97 matches – sets him apart from the mortals. He is only second to Pele as the greatest striker for the world’s top footballing nation.

Whether it's Ronaldo or Zidane that's considered the greatest of their era, we were fortunate to have lived in a time to witness the Brazilian's magic from the moment he exploded on to the international stage.

There are many tributes to the man on the internet. Here is one of those highly viewed compilations on YouTube reminding everyone of the good times:

Cesc In White? Not Likely

Asif Hossain — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 10:37:00 GMT

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Heading into the weekend various reports from Spain and England emerged linking Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas to Real Madrid.

You read that right. Apparently, the man who goes to bed every night dreaming of a return to Camp Nou in a blaugrana shirt, is headed to the Bernabeu to join Barcelona’s most hated rival, Real Madrid.

RELATED: Live matches this weekend on GOL TV Canada

Could it be that the 23-year old, who said last year, "I am a Barca supporter. I am a member (of the club) like my grandfather, my uncle, my cousin … I am Catalan," is ready turn his back on his family, his heritage, his raison d’être?

The answer is probably ‘no.’

This could very well be another stunt by the Madrid media in their many attempts to unsettle Barcelona. Last couple of seasons the same press accused referees of showing leniency toward Pep Guardiola's men.

That seven point edge held by the Catalans in the league table is starting to look insurmountable. Why not stir the pot a little?

After all, Real Madrid followers are well aware of the emotional attachment many Barca supporters and players have to Fabregas. He is the natural and rightful heir to Xavi in the Camp Nou midfield and that fact is obviously not lost on the pro-Madrid press.

Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes put it best when he said, "I cannot imagine Cesc wearing the white shirt."

Smart money says, neither can Cesc.

Whichever club Fabregas is destined to end up with if he should choose to leave Arsenal, we probably have that team featured this weekend as part of our six live matches from Germany and Spain.

Saturday, February 12, 2011
Bundesliga - 9:25 a.m. Bayern Munich v. Hoffenheim
La Liga - 11:55 a.m. Atletico Madrid v. Valencia
La Liga - 1:55 p.m. Sporting Gijon v. Barcelona
La Liga – 3:55 p.m. Racing Santander v. Sevilla

Sunday, February 13, 2011
Bundesliga - 10:30 a.m. Cologne v. Mainz
La Liga - 2:55 p.m. Espanyol v. Real Madrid

Talk Radio Attracts Gray & Keys

Asif Hossain — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:42:00 GMT

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"TalkSport" became the talk of Twitter Tuesday as the disgraced former Sky Sports pair, Andy Gray and Richard Keys, landed a new gig on the radio.

You may remember Gray (pictured here striking ball from his Everton days in 1985) was dismissed last month by Sky for sexism allegations after he was caught on tape, musing about whether women understand the offside rule. Keys quit Sky Sports shortly thereafter.

Now on talk radio, a world where almost anything goes, the beleaguered duo is to present a flagship program for talkSPORT, owned by UK’s UTV Radio, with under 2% audience share in Britain.

The station quickly became a trending topic on Twitter Tuesday morning, with reactions varying mostly from ridicule to, well, more ridicule but many football fans also saying it’s a perfect marriage and that much is true.

Phone-in talk radio, the on-air ancestor of fossilized media commentary soaked in prejudice from paying homage to ill-advised norms of yesteryear, continues to exist and in some cases thrive. Talk radio presents itself as an outlet for the angry everyman fed up with social niceties – the very thing Gray and Keys’ supporters might say the pair was victimized by at Sky.

Gray and Keys will likely be successful and even entertaining for the type of audience talk radio generally attracts, but they certainly won’t be progressive or thought provoking but that's not entirely their fault. A conveyer of testosterone driven misplaced rage, talk radio today is not a thinking man’s platform.

Another notable football personality on talkSPORT is former Nottingham Forrest and Liverpool striker Stan Collymore. Additionally, Arsenal great Ian Wright co-hosted a drivetime program there until last year when he switched the dial to another station.

No Escaping Messi v. Ronaldo

Asif Hossain — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:42:00 GMT

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There is no escaping Lionel Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo.

The pair are tied with 24 goals apiece in La Liga where Messi’s Barcelona leads Ronaldo’s Real Madrid by seven points. We watch them here on GOL TV Canada every week, and if that’s not enough, it's Portugal v. Argentina, live Wednesday at 2:55 p.m.

The site goal.com compiled statistical data on the world’s two biggest sports superstars ahead of the international friendly. This past weekend the Argentine Messi notched a hat-trick against Atletico Madrid, while Portugal's most famous export Ronaldo grabbed a brace on route to Real Madrid’s win over Real Sociedad.

Some say Messi is out of this world, but while still on planet earth, he may be venturing out to India for the first time in September. Media reports indicate that Argentina may be set to grace Kolkata's 120,000 seat Salt Lake Stadium in a glamour friendly against an European side. Top clubs are desperate to stamp their influence in the increasingly wealthy countries of India and China, and it seems national sides are no different.

Ronaldo meanwhile, turned 26 recently and with the La Liga crown seemingly out of Real Madrid's reach, the Portuguese superstar feels a Champions League title would be an appropriate late birthday present in 2011.

High profile international ties can sometimes disappoint, but given the form both Messi and Ronaldo are in at present, this head-to-head match up on Wednesday is not to be missed.

Real Rift, Live Matches & More

Asif Hossain — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 17:00:00 GMT

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Real Rift?

Real Madrid general manager Jorge Valdano isn’t ready to give up his position at the Bernabeu. There were reports suggesting that the Argentine was set to resign Thursday over a row with head coach Jose Mourinho, but Valdano says he is staying put.

In recent days, Valdano has sought to make amends with Mourinho, after a split that emerged following a disagreement on the purchase of a new striker in the January transfer window. Valdano instead backed current players such as Karim Benzema to shine, before the club settled on a loan deal for want-away Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor.

The Togo international Adebayor scored on his debut in the Copa del Rey semifinal second leg on Wednesday, helping Real Madrid to a place in the cup final.

Of course, when Real gets there on April 20, they will meet the team that has tormented them for the last two and a half years - Barcelona.

Highlights of the second leg of Copa del Rey semifinals can be seen in the video player.

Die Borussen Bouncing

Runaway Bundesliga leader Borussia Dortmund is bouncing back to GOL TV Canada on Friday afternoon taking on Schalke. Die Borussen have an 11 point lead over second place Bayer Leverkusen. There are 14 rounds left in the Bundesliga calendar heading into this weekend.

This is a Ruhr Valley derby match that the Dortmund website has described as "the most important match on planet earth."

Paraguay international Lucas Barrios (pictured) leads Dortmund with nine goals, but eight goal man Shinji Kagawa of Japan is now lost for the season after sustaining an injury in the Asian Cup semifinal - a tournament his country ultimately won.

Schalke added a pair of legendary players during the January transfer window in Iranian international Ali Karimi and Greek forward Angelos Charisteas in a bid to end its goal scoring woes that has them seated an unusually low 11th in the 18-team Bundesliga table.

Dotmund-Schalke will be the only live Bundesliga match on GOL this weekend. On Sunday GOL will carry Freiburg v. Frankfut on a delay at 5 p.m.

In other Bundesliga news, Hoffenheim coach Marco Pezzaiuoli has signed on with the club until 2014. Meanwhile, Cologne has blamed a faulty fax machine for being unable to complete a transfer for Eric-Maxime Choupo-Moting.

10-point Pressure

Of the two La Liga giants, Barcelona is up first this weekend, taking on Atletico Madrid on Satuday afternoon., immediately after Villarreal v. Levante which gets underway at 1:55 p.m. Should Barca emerge victorious, they will create a 10-point gap at the top of the table, while Villarreal could move within three points of second place with a win over relegation-zone Levante.

Second place Real Madrid will have to respond the next day against ninth in the league Real Sociedad. That match will be followed by fourth place Valencia taking on Hercules, which sits 13th in the table.

Going International

GOL has landed a massive glamour friendly on Wednesday, February 9 – it’s Portugal v. Argentina at 2:55 p.m. More details on this match in days ahead.

Live Matches this week (as of February 3, 2011):

Friday, February 4, 2011
Bundesliga - 2:25 p.m. Borussia Dortmund v. Schalke 04

Saturday, February 5, 2011
La Liga - 1:55 p.m. Villarreal v. Levante
La Liga - 3:55 p.m. Barcelona v. Atletico Madrid

Sunday, February 6, 2011
La Liga - 12:55 p.m. Real Madrid v. Real Sociedad
La Liga - 2:55 p.m. Valencia v. Hercules

Wednesday, February 9, 2011
International Friendly - 2:55 p.m. Portugal v. Argentina

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 31

Asif Hossain — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 16:33:00 GMT

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Ex-Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres’ move from Liverpool to Chelsea for $80.1 million (Cdn) and the subsequent deals that followed dominated deadline day in the January transfer window.

There were however, plenty of deals concerning La Liga and Bundesliga sides that are dear to GOL TV viewers. Unless any other moves take place in the last hours of the January transfer window, with paperwork arriving later, the following deals should close the silly season until the summer of 2011.

Spain

Tottenham desperately wanted to add a Spanish presence to its north London brand. The problem is, every approach was met with obstacles and ultimately, rejection.

One UK-based website put together some details of the quadruple disappointment suffered by Harry Redknapp as he chased Fernando Llorente, Sergio Aguero, Alvaro Negredo and Giuseppe Rossi. The offers were worth anywhere between $20 million (Negredo) to $61 million (Aguero).

All four Spain-based strikers are set to remain with their respective clubs. Somewhere in there an approach for Uruguayan Diego Forlan was likely lost in the shuffle.

While nobody is going to White Hart Lane, one England-based player heading to Spain is Paulo Da Silva. The defender is joining Real Zaragoza according to the Sunderland Echo.

Xisco is returning to Spain. The striker arrived at Newcastle in 2008, but never managed to settle with the Toon as the club went through its dramatic ups and downs. Deportivo La Coruna will welcome the 24-year old back to the Riazor.

Two other players are heading to Depor; winger Javito from Greek side Aris and Argentine striker Jose Sand leaves Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates for Spain.

Barcelona have lost teenager Ruben Rochina to Blackburn. The 19-year old striker signed a four and a half year contract. This could prove potentially lucrative for Blackburn down the line if Rochina lives up to expectations.

Like Blackburn, Racing Santander came under new Indian ownership, which reportedly launched a bid for Birmingham City striker Nikola Zigic for $8.1 million.

UPDATE 6:30 p.m. ET: Racing acquired Mexico international Gio dos Santos from Tottenham on loan.

Levante acquired Ecuadorian midfielder Jefferson Montero on loan from Villarreal.

Germany

Wolfsburg was the busiest side in Germany, signing five players on deadline day. Tuncay Sanli moved from English club Stoke to the German side to play for manager Steve McClaren. The Englishman is familiar with the Turkish forward who joined Middlesbrough, about the time McClaren left the Premiership club to manage England.

The Wolves also signed Patrick Helmes, Jan Polak, Koo Ja-Cheol and Yohandry Orozco.

Have you checked out the Tehran Times lately? You might if you are a Schalke supporter. Ali Karimi has joined Schalke for the rest of the Bundesliga season.

Schalke also completed the Anthony Annan deal that was rumoured late last week. The Ghana midfielder is headed to Gelsenkirchen from Rosenborg.

Had enough of Schalke? No? Good, because they matched Iranian legend Karimi with Greek hero Angelos Charisteas. Either Schalke is desperate to claw up the Bundesliga table, or with the acquisition of iconic Persian and Greek warriors, Felix Magath plans to reenact scenes from the film 300 at the Veltins-Arena.

Asian Cup champion, Japanese striker Shinji Okazaki signed with Stuttgart over the weekend. The 24-year old has played his entire professional career wih Shimizu S-Pulse of the J-League in his home country. He has 41 international caps for Japan with an impressive strike rate of 21 goals.

Last-place Borussia Monchengladbach’s loss is Aston Villa’s gain as American midfielder Michael Bradley joined the English side on loan on deadline day.

Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler is attracting interest from Manchester United, though a move is unlikely until the summer. The English club is linked to several top goalkeepers in their bid to replace Edwin van der Sar.

Bayern Munich defender Maximilian Haas has joined English side Middlesbrough.

Ghana striker Prince Tagoe has left Hoffenheim and joined Partizan Belgrade on loan.

A loan deal seeing a Bundesliga side gain a player has Czech midfielder Adam Hlousek joining Kaiserslautern from Slavia Prague.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 28

Asif Hossain — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:58:00 GMT

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Spain

Sevilla has gotten busy in the final days of the January transfer window, possibly securing a couple of young players that could impact their success for years ahead.

On Friday the club signed 22-year old Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic from Bundesliga outfit Schalke for a little over $2 million (Cdn).

The same source confirming the Rakitic signing – Yahoo! – suggests that the Croat will be joined by Chilean World Cup player Gary Medel (pictured) at midfield for Los Rojiblancos. Medel is currently on loan to Argentine giant Boca Juniors.

In financial peril but challenging for an European place in the league table, Espanyol has punched up their finances a little with a $4.7 million sale of defender Didac Vila to AC Milan. The 22-year old is considered to have a tremendous upside.

Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea is linked to Manchester United as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar. The 20-year old is also reported to be a Barcelona target but has proclaimed he is quite happy at Vicente Calderon.

Arsenal’s Carlos Vela was linked to Valencia on a loan move, but the London club has sent him to West Brom until the end of season.

Germany

Schalke may have lost Rakitic, but the German side may be in the process of adding Anthony Annan from Rosenborg. What’s interesting about this deal is that Sevilla was chasing the Ghanaian as well, however, having received a player from Schalke, the Spanish club may step aside and let Annan move to Gelsenkirchen.

World Cup great and Bayern Munich striker Miroslav Klose wants to regain a starting role at his club. In the meantime, he is being linked to Italian clubs Inter and an un-sourced rumour on Friday emerged with the German as an Juventus target.

Bundesliga leader Borussia Dortmund suffered a mighty blow when Shinji Kagawa suffered a season-ending injury in the Asian Cup semifinal against South Korea. The German club, however, insists they will not be buying to fill his void.

Werder Bremen’s bid to sign Niko Kranjcar has been rejected by Tottenham. According to reports the White Hart Lane outfit will not release the player as it fights for a Champions League place in England.

Senegal striker Demba Ba has turned a loan move to West Ham into a permanent deal in a matter of days since arriving in East London. An insurance hitch following the departure from Hoffenheim supposedly caused the delay.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 27

Asif Hossain — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

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Spain

Rumours surrounding Sergio Busquets have finally come to an end at Barcelona. Nine days ago it was reported he had finalized his contract situation, the details of which emerged Thursday morning. The deal will keep the 22-year old at Camp Nou until 2015 (not 2016 as previously rumoured) and his buy-out clause has jumped 87% from $110 million (Cdn) to $206 million.

The Busquets deal may give confidence to Barca fans that the club can now focus solely on securing Dani Alves - or find a suitable replacement.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini was happy to unload Emmanuel Adebayor to Real Madrid. The Italian manager is hoping that the Togolese international will impress at the Bernabeu and make the move permanent.

Remember Mahamadou Diarra? The former $40 million signing was an integral part of Fabio Capello and Bernd Schuster’s midfield systems the last time Real Madrid enjoyed league success. The 29-year old saw his brilliant career take a downturn while on international duty with Mali in 2008. Recovered from a knee injury, but behind in pecking order to Sami Khedira at the Bernabeu, Diarra may be on his way to Monaco.

Real won't be the only Madrid side to cash in on an aging player if rumours of Diego Forlan moving away from Vicente Calderon are true. The Uruguayan has been linked to a Major League Soccer move with Seattle and more recently to Tottenham.

Bolton is reportedly interested in taking Arsenal’s Mexican forward Carlos Vela on loan. However, the 21-year old is also linked with La Liga side Valencia.

While waiting for Vela, Valencia moved to bolster their attack with the signing of Jonas Goncalves from Gremio - the leading scorer in the 2010 Brasileirao.

Germany

Bayern Munich target Manuel Neuer is now a candidate to replace Edwin van der Sar at Old Trafford, according to the Daily Mail. The Schalke goalkeeper was rumored to be leaving his current side last summer, and it looks as though speculation is set to stir up again in 2011.

Having already lost Mark van Bommel to AC Milan, Bayern may be bracing for a double-blow with left fullback Diego Contento as a San Siro target. But reports indicate talks have cooled and Contento may just have to be content in Bavaria.

One defender Bayern can’t hold on to however, is Edson Braafheid. The 27-year old Dutch defender has signed with Hoffenheim.

Reports indicate Werder Bremen is in talks with Tottenham over a possible deal for out-of-favour midfielder Niko Kranjcar. Werder, once a Bundesliga certainty for an European place, desperately needs a boost in the league table.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 25

Asif Hossain — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:04:00 GMT

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Spain

Jose Mourinho has finally landed a new striker. Togo international and Manchester City bench-sitting specialist Emmanuel Adebayor is off to the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid had been linked to a plethora of top Europe-based forwards during the January transfer window. The deal for Adebayor is a loan until the end of the current season, but the move could become permanent for the man once affectionately dubbed "Baby Kanu" while at Arsenal because Nwankwo Kanu is his idol.

Securing Adebayor’s signature may not end Real Madrid’s drive to bolster its forward ranks. Cross town rival Atletico are fending off offers for Sergio Aguero – the Argentine has a $61 million (Cdn) buyout clause.

Contract talks between Barcelona and Dani Alves may have broken down, leading Johann Cruyff to conclude that the Catalan club should consider selling the Brazilian fullback.

Germany

In the Bundesliga, Wolfsburg has targeted striker Srdjan Lakic of Kaiserslautern with money available from the sale of Edin Dzeko. Yesterday it was reported that Papiss Cisse is also in their sights.

Hamburg forward Ruud van Nistelrooy is reportedly ‘distraught’ after a potential return to Real Madrid fell through.

The Mark van Bommel saga at Bayern Munich has finally finished, with the Dutch midfielder rejecting Wolfsburg and Liverpool to choose AC Milan. The 33-year old was Bayern’s captain.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 24

Asif Hossain — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:32:00 GMT

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Spain

The football world nearly went a full weekend without Real Madrid being linked to another top striker. But on Sunday Jose Mourinho reportedly sounded a plan to capture Didier Drogba from Chelsea. Drogba enjoyed tremendous success under Mourinho when he managed the London side and the pair are never shy to heap mutual praise in the other's direction.

Mourinho is eager to find a solution for the injured Gonzalo Higuain. So far he has been linked to Drogba, Robin van Persie, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Emmanuel Adebayor to name a few, but Karim Benzema continues to shine and has the backing of the Real Madrid director Jorge Valdano.

Benzema is not short on admirers away from the Bernabeu, with Juventus and Chelsea possibly holding an interest in the French striker.

Another La Liga player targeted by an Italian side is Espanyol defender Victor Ruiz. Once a Manchester City interest, he is now courted by Napoli. The Catalonian centre back is just 21-years old, but a sale could net cash-poor Espanyol close to $11 million (Cdn).

Germany

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish says the deal to send Ryan Babel to Hoffenheim is off. A move in the region of $10 million was agreed to by the German side for the Dutch international’s services, but now Dalglish says Babel is staying at Anfeild.

UPDATE: Babel agreed to Hoffenheim move on Monday evening.

Bundesliga clubs are set to lose out on another Dutch player, with Wolfsburg target Mark van Bommel set for AC Milan, according to one Italian source reported by goal.com. The Bayern Munich captain has been linked with Wolfsburg, Tottenham and Liverpool, but AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has flown to Munich himself with hopes of securing van Bommel’s services.

More bad news for Wolfsburg in the transfer window that saw them lose Edin Dzeko. Italian press is reporting that Italian defender Andrea Barzagli is set to leave the German club for Juventus, completing the deal as early as Tuesday.

In trying to fill the void left by Dzeko at the Volkswagen Arena, Wolfsburg has turned their attention to Papiss Cisse. The Senegal international has 15 goals in 17 games for Freiburg this season. The offer is said to be in the $16 million region, with bulk of the money coming from the Dezko sale to Manchester City.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 21

Asif Hossain — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:24:00 GMT

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CSKA Moscow and Japan world cup hero, midfielder Keisuke Honda has been rumored to be in talks with several clubs for a move this month. According to this report, Liverpool, Arsenal and Aston Villa are all interested. ESPN Soccernet however, says that Honda’s agent admits his client would prefer a move to La Liga over the English Premier League. While the set-piece specialist would be a treat to watch in Spain, this is likely a tactic hoping to draw more bidders and raise Honda’s wage demands. The 24-year old, dubbed the 'Asian David Beckham' for his bendy, swervy free kicks, could be worth the price of admission.

On Thursday Villarreal’s Giuseppe Rossi became gossip fodder for Tottenham. But on Friday, Spurs’ boss Harry Redknapp has ruled out a move for the Italian international. The reason behind it may be a reported $55 million (Cdn) price tag slapped on Rossi. That amount nearly doubles what Tottenham wished to pay for this Spain-based star.

River Plate forward Diego Buonanotte is leaving the Argentine powerhouse to join La Liga side Malaga in what is possibly a $5.5 million move.

The nine-day old rumour concerning Barcelona youngster Ruben Rochina joining Blackburn on-loan has resurfaced again Friday. The Rovers have been shut-out in their bid to land expensive, aging stars such as Ronaldinho and Beckham, and may have decided to pursue a target with less fanfare in the 19-year old Rochina.

The Rafael to Barcelona rumours may heat up again as Dani Alves has once more refused a contract offer from the club. Earlier this week it was reported that the Catalan side may be targeting 20-year old Rafael, currently at Manchester United, as an ideal replacement for Dani Alves.

In Germany, Ryan Babel continues to stall over his Hoffenheim deal, despite any hopes of an Ajax swap for Luis Suarez to Liverpool losing steam. The Dutch international is desperate for an Ajax return, but Germany is still a more realistic destination for the attacking player.

From Hoffenheim’s Sinsheim home, we follow the transfer news north to Gelsenkirchen, where Schalke has parted ways with Slovakian World Cup star Erik Jendrisek. The forward has joined Freiburg in a $1.2 million transfer.

Back in Spain, and finally, we may be going an entire day (perhaps weekend?) without Real Madrid being linked to a star striker in this transfer window.

Don't miss live Bundesliga and La Liga action this weekend on GOL TV Canada starting Saturday at 9:25 a.m.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 20

Asif Hossain — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:21:00 GMT

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The January transfer window continues to be abuzz with gossip.

The latest rumour that will be of interest to GOL TV Canada’s La Liga viewers is a report from the UK paper The Independent, indicating that Villarreal forward Giuseppe Rossi is on Harry Redknapp’s wish list at Tottenham.

Spurs are fighting to retain their place in next season’s Champions League and some have even tipped them for the English title this season. Their last blockbuster transfer, Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart, has yielded massive success at White Hart Lane. Rossi, an U.S.-born Italian international, could potentially have a similar impact in North London.

Another bit of news that will be of interest to both Spanish and German league football followers is the plight of Ruud van Nistelrooy. The striker is keen to rejoin Real Madrid, but Hamburg has made "a clear decision" not to part with the Dutch hit man.

It's becoming hard to track all the players that reportedly wish to join Real Madrid. Robin Van Persie was its latest target just yesterday and now Hugo Almeida has reportedly expressed an interest in joining Jose Mourinho at the Bernabeu. The problem: the Portuguese forward just signed with Besiktas, leaving Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen.

Another German club targeted for plucking is Cologne, according to this report, Zenit St Petersburg in Russia is lining up a move close to $20 million (Cdn.) for Lukas Podolski.

Over at Bayern Munich, Mark van Bommel's time with The Bavarians looks close to over. With Liverpool out of the picture, the soon-to-be former captain looks likely to sign for Wolfsburg.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 19

Asif Hossain — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:34:00 GMT

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La Liga on GOL TV Canada may take on a Dutch flavour with Jose Mourinho chasing after Robin Van Persie, if this report now repeated by various British media sources is to be believed. The bid is rumoured to be in the region of $40 million (Cdn.) for the 27-year old.

It was speculated yesterday that the Bernabeu side is ready to move on Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor who has been transfixed to the players' bench at Manchester City. Adebayor is keen to engineer his way out of City as the arrival of Edin Dzeko form Wolfsburg can severely impact his already limited first team chances. At the Bernabeu, either he or Van Persie could make a case to play ahead of the unsettled Karim Benzema.

From the Spanish capital to the Catalan region, Barcelona is rumoured to be pursuing Manchester United fullback Rafael. This may well be a tactic used to turn the head of Rafael's fellow Brazilian Dani Alves, who is presently working out his contract options at Camp Nou. Rafael is seven years younger than Dani Alves and fits Pep Guardiola's style.

Meanwhile at Sevilla, Alvaro Negredo is said to be one of the back-up options for Liverpool should they be priced out of the market for Ajax striker Luis Suarez.

An Indian businessman, Ahsan Ali Syed, has made a bid to purchase La Liga outfit Racing Santander. He is the founder of a wealth management firm and plans to complete his purchase within five days. It will be curious to see if this development has affects the Spanish transfer market. This story however, suggests that it might not.

Staying with smaller clubs, one Spanish newspaper has claimed that 21-year old Sporting Gijon left back, Jose Angel, is keen to join Malaga. The Gijon-born defender is a capped Spanish U21 player. Both clubs are currently above the relegation zone, but by no means safe from the drop with Malaga sitting 16th and Sporting just one place behind the Andalusian side.

Transfer News & Gossip - Jan 18

Asif Hossain — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:19:00 GMT

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Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim are close to acquiring Dutch winger Ryan Babel from Liverpool. The German club is working out personal terms with Babel, while a transfer fee of roughly $9 million (Cdn.) has been agreed to by Liverpool on Tuesday.

Babel was recently fined by the English FA for relaying an altered picture of referee Howard Webb in a Manchester United shirt. Webb was the focal point of near-universal internet ridicule over his handling of a controversial FA Cup tie between Liverpool and Manchester United earlier this month.

It had been suggested in some reports that Babel would be an offering to Ajax for a Luis Suarez swap, but that is now unlikely. Suarez could still end up at Anfield separately, but Babel does not figure to be in the transaction.

Also in Germany, Bayern Munich captain Mark van Bommel is being linked to both Liverpool and Wolfsburg.

In other transfer news and gossip important to GOL TV Canada viewers, reports indicate that Sergio Busquets has agreed to a new contract at Barcelona until 2016, ending speculation that he was set to vacate Camp Nou.

Real Madrid has been looking for reinforcements in attack with the loss of Gonzalo Higuain to injury. They are currently being linked to Manchester City's surplus striker Emmanuel Adebayor, while superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has been quoted by ESPN Soccernet as suggesting he would like to see Athletic Bilbao hit-man Fernando Llorente at the Bernabeu.

Possibly on his way out of the Spanish capital is Karim Benzema. Rumours persist linking the France international to Aston Villa where he would be united with French manager Gerard Houllier. Villa has made a large splash in the transfer market this week by signing Darren Bent for an outrageous sum in the neighbourhood of $28 million (Cdn.).

Another report in Spain touts Sevilla as a candidate for Inter Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari.

Messi Retains World Title

Asif Hossain — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:35:00 GMT

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Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has retained his crown as the world's best player by winning the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or award in Zurich on Monday.

The Argentine scored 34 goals in 35 league games for Barcelona last season, and has 18 from 15 in the present campaign. His contribution helped to see Barcelona to the Spanish summit last season, where the Catalan club remains today.

Messi, at just 23, joins Brazilians Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Frenchman Zinedine Zidane as the only two-time recipients of the title that has been handed out since 1991. Ronaldo has won the award three times.

Messi's Barcelona teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi finished second and third respectively in voting. Xavi had finished third in 2009 as well.

The two-time winner told an audience in Zurich, "I'd rather have won the World Cup than be named the best player in the world," alluding to Argentina's disappointing exit from South Africa in the summer of 2010.

Dalglish Return Ruined

Asif Hossain — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:30:00 GMT

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The return of Kenny Dalglish in charge of Liverpool was marred with a 10-man 1-0 defeat away to Manchester United in a FA Cup third round tie at Old Trafford.

Dalglish's side went down 1-0 inside the opening two minutes. Referee Howard Webb awarded United a penalty 38 seconds into the contest when Dimitar Berbatov fell inside the area after a challenge from Daniel Agger.

Ryan Giggs converted from the spot, smashing the ball past the outstretched fingertips of Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina.

Liverpool's afternoon got worse at the 32nd minute when Webb sent off captain Steven Gerrard for a two-footed challenge on what looked to be a 50-50 ball. Gerrard clipped the boots of Michael Carrick, drawing the dismissal from Webb.

Despite being a man down for the space of an hour, Liverpool showed a willingness to find the equalizer. In the second half, United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak made a keen save from a dead ball delivered by Liverpool fullback Fabio Aurelio.

United are off to the fourth round of the FA Cup, while Liverpool has been ousted from both domestic cup competitions.

Immediate postgame interviews:

On the penalty -

Berbatov: "Of course it was. Enough (contact) to make me lose my balance and fall to the ground. People who know me, I neven go (to) the ground."

On Gerrard's red -

Giggs: "The sending off obviously helped us ... I couldn't see it, but the players reaction usually says a lot and the (United) players who were around the ball weren't too happy with it."

From Liverpool -

Dalglish: "I think the two decisions are important factors in the game ... it's difficult to come here and play Manchester United, they are a fantastic side. Mind you down to ten men, lose a goal in the first minute, (Liverpool) showed fantastic courage in conjuction with the fantastic support they had here."

The King Returns

Asif Hossain — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 11:15:00 GMT

Liverpool Football Club parted ways with Roy Hodgson this week by ‘mutual consent’ according to a club release posted Saturday on its website.

The beleaguered former Fulham manager was under siege at Anfield due to the poor performance of LFC in the 2010-11 season. The Reds sit in 12th place and just four points from the bottom three after 20 matches under Hodgson, in which they won seven and lost nine.

The writing was on the wall for some time. Even as early as August 23 when Liverpool slumped to a 3-0 defeat away to Manchester City, some had speculated that Hodgson was out of his depth at a big club. This belief gathered momentum as the season wore on and Liverpool's performance became dire even against the lesser lights of the Premiership.

RELATED: Liverpool Put Dalglish In Charge

Although a handful of positive moments arrived in Europa League under Hodgson, the fashion in which Liverpool lost in the EPL to the likes of Blackpool, Stoke City, Newcastle and most recently a thrashing at Blackburn – was a step too far in the wrong direction for club supporters and owners.

With Hodgson out, in comes Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish (pictured) as caretaker manager until the end of season.

Dalglish is widely regarded as the greatest player in Liverpool history and the Scot was in charge the last time the Reds secured the English title in 1990.

‘King Kenny’ - as he is dubbed by his throngs of worshippers at Anfield and elsewhere - also managed Blackburn to an unlikely Premier League championship in 1995.

Dalglish will be in charge on Sunday when Liverpool visits Old Trafford to take on arch-rival Manchester United in the third round of the FA Cup.

REPORTS: Shade Of Oranje?

Asif Hossain — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 11:58:00 GMT

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Return To TorontoFC.ca

Last week while on holiday I woke up to this slightly unpleasant news – at least from a Toronto FC club and supporter perspective.

This morning (still on holiday) however, was a little different.

Reports have been circulating for a while that Paul Mariner, former assistant at fellow Major League Soccer outfit New England, was in line for either a coaching or general manager position at BMO Field.

On Monday morning the web rumours took on an orange hue, linking former Dutch international midfielder Aron Winter to the same posts that had connected Mariner to TFC.

Reds' MLS beat writer Duane Rollins filed a report at 7:48 a.m. at the Canadian Soccer News citing "multiple sources" that Winter's arrival was imminent.

Steven Goff at the Washington Post and the website MLS Rumors were also on top of the speculative reports early.

About the same time, Ryan Wolstat at the Toronto Sun penned an article saying, Winter will travel to Toronto alongside Bob de Klerk as his assistant, which also put Mariner’s viability in doubt.

Mariner had been suggested as an assistant coach (along with every other position imaginable at the front office) for some time.

The Dutch source for early English reports likely originated from here, while de Klerk’s name was possibly first uttered here.

Rollins though, didn't dismiss Mariner's presence in Toronto at some capacity for 2011, with a more exhaustive piece later Monday morning on the CSN website.

Following a storied playing career for the Dutch national team and clubs Ajax, Lazio and Inter Milan (as pictured), Winter spent time back in Amsterdam as an assistant coach since 2005.

Mariner is a former England international, who most recently managed Plymouth Argyle in England.

So far Toronto FC hasn’t confirmed either the old Mariner reports or the recent Winter links, and those expecting some kind of an official announcement Monday from BMO Field, I can confirm, will be disappointed.

GOL TV Canada will report more on this story as it unfolds one way or another.

Allardyce Ally Assails Blackburn

Asif Hossain — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:00:00 GMT

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The surprise sacking of Sam Allardyce by Blackburn on Monday is still making the rounds of British newspapers with new owners, India-based Venky’s Group, coming under fire from members of the UK press and the most famous manager in the English Premier League.

Venky’s has asked for patience, saying they are committed to "good football" and are in search for a British manager that can take the 1995 league champions back to the top five of the Premiership. The Rovers were in 13th place at the time of Allardyce’s dismissal.

Their ruthless ambition isn’t sitting well with Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who has slammed the Allardyce sacking as "stupid" and that it "confounded common sense."

Ferguson’s reaction will not come as a surprise to anyone. He and Allardyce are good friends and the two Brits have been taking turns beating up on foreign influences in the English game for some time, as former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez can attest.

Blackburn chairperson Anuradha Desai said that she wants to make her new Lancashire outfit the most popular club in India. Globalization in football is nothing new and it represents a large source of revenue for those lucky enough to have international exposure.

However, Indian football writer Dileep Premachandran is less than impressed by Desai and company, noting in his ESPN Soccernet column, "Blackburn is no labour of love. It's strictly business."

Rory Smith of The Telegraph delves deeper into the background of Desai, discovering that she is a businesswoman of tremendous renown, though not exactly well versed in football.

Sky Sports reported Tuesday that co-owner, and Desai’s brother, Venkatesh Rao already has a permanent successor to Allardyce in mind and that the move to dismiss the 56-year old was made out of concern for the fans.

As for the club supporters, they expressed a variety of opinion in the Lancashire Telegraph from nervousness to being downright appalled at one end of the spectrum. Heading the other way, a few supported the quest for attractive football, something that has always escaped the managerial arsenal of Allardyce.

All told, there is an air of suspicion in the British (and some Indian) press about the motives behind the Allardyce firing. He had asked for funds to secure the likes of Robbie Keane from Tottenham among other transfer targets, but was reportedly told that funds would not be allocated.

Foreign ownership in the Premiership has come under a dark cloud since the Glazer Family, Tom Hicks and George Gillett saddled storied clubs Manchester United and Liverpool with heavy debt. To avoid such comparisons, Mrs Desai and her family will have tomove in a calculated manner going forward.

Blackburn Sacks Allardyce

Asif Hossain — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:09:00 GMT

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Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce was relieved of his duties on Monday alongside assistant Neil McDonald.

The club has lost three of its last five matches and it seemed to have been enough for new owners, India-based Venky's Group, to demand change.

Rovers lost this past weekend 2-1 to Bolton and are 13th in the English Premier League with 21 points from 17 matches.

Allardyce took over at Ewood Park in 2008 following a largely unpopular stint at Newcastle.

A statement from the club read: "The Venky's Group, owners of Blackburn Football Club, has today confirmed the departure of manager Sam Allardyce and assistant manager Neil McDonald with immediate effect."

The statement added that coaching duties will be taken over by first team coach Steve Kean, indicating at least until a permanent replacement has been found.

Allardyce has hit back at the new owners through the League Manager's Association, with a response saying, "I am very shocked and disappointed to be leaving Blackburn Rovers."

"I am extremely proud to have managed this club and I enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the players, my staff and the supporters during my time in charge. I now wish them and the football club every success for the future."

The early reaction from England is unsurprising. Sky Sports has quotes from former Blackburn players who seem equally shocked and astounded as the departing manager.

Spots Illustrated has touted Martin Jol - former Dutch manager at Tottenham - as a possible replacement at Ewood Park, citing British bookmaker Ladbrokes. Jol is a 5/1 favourite according to the bookmaker.

Could Jol be the answer to the "wider plans and ambitions for the club" the new owners mentioned in its statement?

Guti Gets Wild

Asif Hossain — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:30:00 GMT

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Former Real Madrid star Guti arrived in Turkey on a two-year contract this season with Besiktas. After 15-rounds of the Süper Lig his team sits in fifth place, nine points behind leage leader Trabzonspor.

By most accounts Guti's time in Istanbul has been fruitful. The 34-year old already has four goal in 12 league appearances, and just last week The Black Eagles booked a place to the knockout stage of the Europa League thanks in part to the Spaniard setting up one of the two goals in their 2-1 victory over CSKA Sofia.

Guti's form off the pitch however, left something to be desired this week as you can see below.

According to reports Guti was drunk and while behind his vehicle under the influence at 4 a.m. on Monday morning, crashed into a bus. Nobody was hurt in the incident, but when confronted by the media, he produced the above reaction.

In his defence, Guti claims he wasn't drunk at all. Thankfully, the authorities know better and his driver's licence was confiscated for reportedly being five times over the allowable drunk-driving limit.

FIFA Decisions Hardly 'Stupid'

Asif Hossain — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 13:43:00 GMT

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Despite a full day to absorb the fact that Russia and Qatar will respectively host the 2018 and 2022 World Cup tournaments, English and American media continues to suffer from indigestion today.

Mail Online from the UK has a report indicating that England may never bid to host the World Cup again. Linked to the piece are outright allegations that Russia is a ‘mafia state’ and that their country is ‘ruled by crooks, thugs and spies.’

To drive the point home in the originally cited piece, the Mail uses an undated picture of Red Square where Russians are seemingly indifferent about the World Cup, while in contrast a recent photo depicts the English as they ‘braved the cold near Tower Bridge’ awaiting the bad news. Apparently, the English handle the cold better than Russians – or so the Mail will have you believe.

Godfrey: Cup Decisions No Surprise

The U.S. may have a bigger gripe than England about their loss to Qatar. After all, with soccer being of little importance in that country, American media didn’t declare an all-out war on FIFA unlike the English, who truly did themselves in.

That being said, America’s fourth round defeat in voting to Qatar did not sit well with many, who are now parroting the anti-FIFA line as per their English cousins. Yesterday, I took issue with Grant Wahl’s Sports Illustrated piece about ‘petrodollars’ (as if an American can genuinely malign petrodollars); but that line of reasoning continued today with one columnist in the New York Daily News calling FIFA ‘stupid or corrupt or both.’

The problems with the Russian and Qatar bids are too numerous to count for some. There is even doubt that these oil-rich countries have the proper funds or ability to create wondrous monuments to the beautiful game on tundra or sand. Qatar in particular made promises to build stadiums that are still a product of a wonderful imagination.

Moreover, critics are rightfully irked by a lack of free media in Russia and human rights issues in the Arab world.

These are valid complaints. Russia’s open hostility toward critical media to the point of state-suspected murder should be sickening to anyone that loves freedom and democracy.

Qatar’s reputation as a port for human trafficking is disturbing to say the least. Furthermore, its laws are rarely enforced to protect foreign workers from developing nations that suffer severe exploitation through forced labour.

But as Gabriele Marcotti points out, perhaps as a response to Wahl’s piece on SI, a host country’s record on freedoms and rights matter little when it comes to making sporting decisions. After all, China hosted the Beijing Olympics within months of cracking down on Tibetan monks.

Yes, your state can bash a monk’s head against stone and still host the world for a joyous celebration of athletic achievement. It’s been done and people need to get over it. If human rights were a qualifier for landing major sporting events, then not a single World Cup bid at FIFA’s table would be accepted. Not one.

Events like the World Cup and Olympics are about looking ahead, not at crimes of the past or even present, for that matter. Should the Iraq War and all of its reported crimes automatically disqualify the U.S. and England from bidding? No. The same goes for Russia and Qatar and their political shortcomings.

One positive aspect of large international events is that it forces countries to be on their best behaviour – or as best as possible – due to increased scrutiny from the outside world in the years leading up to the occasion. It sometimes works, and sometimes it doesn’t to the full extent of humanity’s hope, but the net result is rarely negative.

Two important facets of the 2018 and 2022 decisions, despite some detestable features of Russia and Qatar – both in terms of logistics and politics – is the broader picture they represent.

The first ever World Cup in Eastern Europe signals a validation of the European Union as it continues to expand further east. While Russia is not a member of that organization, many Russians ‘feel’ European and want that to be acknowledged and reciprocated. It’s not a surprise that England, a country that has always remained suspicious of the EU or anything east of Berlin for that matter, can’t quite appreciate Russia’s growing significance.

The first ever World Cup in a Muslim country, a wealthy and quasi-liberal one at that (you are not going to do much better at present), might represent something bigger to nearly 1.6 billion adherents of Islam. Many Asian Muslims may now feel they are a part of one of the west’s most exclusive clubs as there isn’t a bigger metaphorical bridge on the planet than the World Cup. It’s understandable that some Americans, residents of a country with a penchant for unilateral foreign policy, are annoyed by this sort of diplomacy by FIFA in reaching out to Qatar.

FIFA’s decisions are not ‘stupid,’ it could be rather calculated. There may be some corruption and collusion, but their process is at least more thought out than say, calling a local baseball final between two American cities the ‘World Series,’ for example.

U.S. Bid Falls Short

Asif Hossain — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:09:00 GMT

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World football’s governing body FIFA announced on Thursday morning that Qatar, not the United States, will be hosting the 2022 World Cup.

This of course, has resulted in cacophonous acrimony around the U.S. and some Canadian soccer media.

Grant Wahl writes in his Sports Illustrated column that, "Choosing Qatar and Russia is the biggest indictment possible that FIFA is not a clean organization. -- The message here is that petrodollars talk."

An international observer might find the ‘petrodollars’ bit particularly amusing coming from an American. Did Wahl truly forget why his country has military presence in the Middle East?

International politics aside, to dismiss Qatar’s bid as somehow haraam (Islamic term for ‘unclean’) because the United States lost is grotesque. More so given that ESPN commented on the less than stellar U.S. presentation the day before despite a touching closing commentary by President Bill Clinton.

A glimpse at Qatar’s World Cup Vision reveals the extravagance and enthusiasm around its bid. They are willing to spend lots of money to host the world, and yes, money talks. This was once a perfectly legitimate worldview when the United States had unyielding reach and influence – which it used to win the 1996 summer and 2002 winter Olympics – before its economic self-implosion.

Russia was awarded the 2018 World Cup just before the Qatari triumph. The shock result from this was England’s ouster in the first round of voting (by comparison the U.S. made it to a fourth round before being eliminated). The Guardian put together a slide show of people to possibly blame for England’s failure, but have since removed it from their website. They have however, included a quotes piece from the announcements that includes reaction from David Beckham and Prince William among others.

Many, including some of my colleagues, are trotting out the old standy that these decisions prove FIFA to be corrupt. There are many reasons to be suspicious of FIFA over the years – ticketing scandals, officiating blunders – but these decisions have little to do with any of that.

It just might be that the English-speaking world is neither as popular nor influential in the brave new frontier of globalization as we once were.

More on this tomorrow.

Barca Smashes Real

Asif Hossain — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:26:00 GMT

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Barcelona completed a masterful destruction of Real Madrid at the 161st El Clasico, beating its despised rival by a humiliating 5-0 margin.

The Catalans signaled their intent early at home, with Lionel Messi hitting a ball off the post in the opening minutes. But they didn’t have to wait long for the first goal as Andres Iniesta played Xavi through for a chip over Madrid keeper Iker Casillas at the 10th minute.

Barca doubled its advantage at 18 minutes when David Villa’s tight angle shot was touched on to the foot of a pouncing Pedro at the goal mouth by a helpless Casillas, who watched his countryman pop in to make it 2-0.

Coming out of halftime, Real Madrid didn’t seem to have any answers for the deficit. David Villa snatched a brace three minutes apart to put Barcelona up 4-0 and substitute Jeffren Suarez put the final touch on the score sheet by nailing Bojan Krkic’s pass past Casillas in injury time to make it 5-0.

Madrid’s disastrous outing was completed shortly after Jeffren’s goal when Sergio Ramos hacked at Messi, earning his second yellow card from referee Eduardo Gonzalez.

Altogether 12 yellow cards and a red to Sergio Ramos were dished out by Gonzalez, in a physical affair where Real Madrid was second best at virtually all points of the game.

Barcelona now takes a two point lead over Real Madrid in the standings after 13 rounds. The clubs will play again in Madrid’s Bernabeu grounds on April 17.

Real Madrid will look to recover from this defeat next week at home against tricky opponent Valencia, while Barcelona will attempt to deliver another five-star performance away to Osasuna. Both matches will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada.

El Clasico Countdown - 1 Day

Asif Hossain — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 14:56:00 GMT

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The first edition of Barcelona-Real Madrid (Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m.) with all of its global anticipation is just one day away. According to the Spanish football blog La Liga Weekly, 891 (press) passes have been issued to 159 organizations from 28 different countries to cover El Clásico.

RELATED: Join The Discussion At Kickoff On GOL TV Live

I don’t know what the exact media figures were for the MLS Cup Final in Toronto last week, but I certainly don’t recall the press box having any correspondents from places such as China, Qatar and Bulgaria. From Brazil to Norway to Japan and all parts in between, when the men from Barcelona and Real Madrid grace the pitch at Camp Nou on Monday, the world will be watching in large numbers.

Real received some good news ahead of the encounter as striker Gonzalo Higuain and midfielder Sami Khedira have been declared fit to play.

Argentina international Higuain has seven goals this season, second in team scoring to Cristiano Ronaldo’s 14. German star Khedira has been influential at midfield for Madrid, featuring in all 12 league matches this year. His holding contribution has allowed Madrid’s attacking players to go forward with little regard to their defensive responsibilities. The 23-year old is molding into a Michael Essien type midfielder for Jose Mourinho – a piece that was integral to the manager’s success in England with Chelsea.

While Mourinho has made a point of reminding Barcelona this week that he got the better of the Catalans with Inter Milan in Champions League, Barca captain Carles Puyol doesn’t see that as a cause for his club to have added motivation.

"We are not playing against Mourinho, we are playing Real Madrid," Puyol is reported as saying to the press this weekend.

Being a point back of Real heading into round 13 should be motivation enough for Barcelona. Last season the title wasn’t decided until the final weekend after both clubs set records for most points, though Barca finishing on top 99-96. The two El Clásico clashes this season could very well decide who wins La Liga for 2010-11.

A list of remaining El Clásico-related programming on GOL leading up to, including and after Monday's match:

Sunday, November 28, 2010
5pm ET/2pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
6pm ET/3pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
9:30pm ET/6:30pm PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
4am ET/1am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
5am ET/2am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
5:30am ET/2:30am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments

Monday, November 29, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
11am ET/8am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
11:30am ET/8:30am PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
12:30pm ET/9:30am PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
1:30pm ET/10:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
2:30pm ET/11:30am PT – El Clasico Pregame coverage
3pm ET/12pm PT – El Clasico: Barcelona x Real Madrid – LIVE
7pm ET/4pm PT - El Clasico Barcelona x Real Madrid – game encore

El Clasico Countdown - 2 Days

Asif Hossain — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 11:55:00 GMT

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Mind games from Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho have surfaced just two days before he takes Real Madrid to Camp Nou to face Barcelona (Monday, November 29, 3 p.m. live on GOL TV Canada) for the first edition of El Clasico this season.

The Scottish Daily Record reports Mourinho as saying, "physically we are fine and know what to do but we face a team that has had a lot of time working together and we have only had a few months."

Andy Bernard from ‘The Office’ (U.S. version) might say on a blown sales call, "this is the classic under-sell."

Mourinho knows full well that his team is in top form. They are favoured as much as anyone has been the last two years to topple Barca at Camp Nou and take a stranglehold on La Liga standings.

Furthermore, Mourinho himself admitted earlier in the week that he knows how to beat Barcelona, something he accomplished in Champions League as Inter Milan boss last season.

Regardless of these facts, Mourinho plays down his side’s mental preparedness ahead of the contest at Camp Nou, but his intentions can hardly be lost on anyone that has observed Mourinho's style since he came into prominence.

"It is our responsibility to put on a great game — the coaches, the players and the referee," Mourinho is quoted as saying in the Belfast Telegraph.

Here Mourinho rehashes something many in the Madrid media has been alluding to the last two seasons (losing gracefully isn’t in their nature), that Barcelona receives favourable calls from officials and that’s apparently a major reason for their success.

Mourinho isn’t necessarily giving himself postgame excuses should the worst happen against Barca, but rather trying to manage expectations for Real Madrid supporters. In his own strange fashion, he is also paying compliments to Pep Guardiola’s two-time reigning Spanish champions for their accomplishments, suggesting he himself is unsure that Real Madrid is ready to knock them off the perch.

But with anything Mourinho, only the man himself knows what his side is truly capable of but the world will have to wait to find out Monday.

A list of Saturday afternoon/evening and early Sunday El Clasico-related programs on GOL TV Canada:

Saturday, November 27, 2010
4pm ET/1pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
7pm ET/4pm PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
2:30am ET/11:30pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
3:30am ET/12:30am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
4am ET/1am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
4:30am ET/1:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Sunday, November 28, 2010
6:30am ET/3:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
9:30am ET/6:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
10:30am ET/7:30am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
11am ET/8am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments

El Clasico Countdown - 3 Days

Asif Hossain — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 11:28:00 GMT

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El Clasico is just three more sleeps away (Barcelona v. Real Madrid, Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m.) and GOL TV Canada continues to get in the mood with some great programming on Friday night.

RELATED: GOL TV Schedule Including Live Bundesliga & La Liga Matches This Weekend

At 6 p.m. 60+ will show Barcelona v. Real Madrid from December 13, 2008 when Barca beat Real 2-0 at Camp Nou. This was the first time the Catalans defeated Real Madrid in league play for over three years when Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi struck for Barca.

That victory signaled a shift in power from the Spanish capital to the Northeast, as later that season Barcelona devastated Madrid 6-2 at their home grounds of Santiago Bernabeu, on way to a nine point win in the Spanish table. 60+ will have the Bernabeu bashing Friday night at 9 p.m., featuring goals from Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Ramos for the vanquished, while Thierry Henry and Messi each had a brace alongside Carles Puyol and Gerard Piqué strikes.

Barcelona hasn’t looked back since, winning the two contests last season on way to another championship.

Here is a list of Friday evening and Saturday morning programs that are related to El Clasico:

Friday, November 26, 2010
6pm ET/3pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
9pm ET/6pm PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
10pm ET/7pm PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
10:30pm ET/7:30pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Saturday, November 27, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
7am ET/4am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
8am ET/5am PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)

To ramp up the excitement – as if it needs any additional fanfare – south of the border, ESPN Deportes has put a 62-second trailer together ahead of the contest.

In El Clasico news from world over, one source cites that Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has had enough of losing to Barcelona. After four consecutive defeats versus the Catalans, the Spain international believes Madrid can finally take three points at Camp Nou on Monday.

For further reading, BBC’s Jonathan Stevenson took a close look at the greatness of both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo proclaiming, "Messi and Ronaldo are the two best players on the planet right now."

No arguments here, although David Villa tends to make a case for himself in big occasions as witnessed at the World Cup and Euro 2008.

El Clasico Countdown - 4 Days

Asif Hossain — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:20:00 GMT

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GOL TV Canada’s El Clasico Countdown continues tonight with The Movie – Real Madrid v. Barcelona (6 p.m. & 8 p.m. ET).

With the most important match of La Liga calendar to date taking place in just four days – Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m. live on GOL – the excitement has been building in both camps.

The teams were in Champions League action at midweek with Real Madrid disposing of Ajax 4-0 on Tuesday and Barcelona following up on Wednesday as 3-0 winners over Panathinaikos.

These clubs are in top form at home and on the continent, setting off like an express train this season, according to one website. In the same article Real coach Jose Mourinho is quoted as saying he is "public enemy number one" at Camp Nou, Barcelona’s home grounds, where he eliminated the blaugrana last season in the Champions League while managing Inter Milan.

Mourinho’s top marksman, Cristiano Ronaldo, has never scored in five matches against Barcelona. Though Ronaldo believes the time is right for him, and Real Madrid, to revive its fortunes against the Catalan giants that they haven’t beaten since 2008.

"It's going to be an emotional meeting and we're in great form so I think we're gonna win there," Ronaldo is quoted as saying in a USA Today piece about the trip to Barcelona.

Barca’s midfield catalyst Xavi had a different take on the encounter when interviewed after their Champions League win in Athens.

"It's an important match and we are favourites because we are playing at home … we are playing well and on good form."

Confidence is not lacking in either camp. The last few seasons there was usually one side in a slightly better mood than the other heading into this fixture, but there is little separating either team at the moment.

Barcelona v. Real Madrid will be shown live on GOL TV Canada on Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m.

Upcoming programs in the El Clasico Countdown:

Thursday, November 25, 2010
7am ET/4am PT – La Liga encore – Real Madrid x Ath. Bilbao (11/20/10)
6pm ET/3pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
8pm ET/5pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Friday, November 26, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
6pm ET/3pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
9pm ET/6pm PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
10pm ET/7pm PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
10:30pm ET/7:30pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

El Clasico Countdown - 5 Days

Asif Hossain — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

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In lead up to Barcelona v. Real Madrid on Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m., GOL TV Canada will be your one-stop-shop for all things El Clasico.

The first of two editions of arguably the world’s most watched non-cup match takes place at Barcelona’s Camp Nou with the rivals separated by a single point (32-31) in the Spanish table after 12 rounds.

David Villa will play in his first El Clasico on Monday, November 29 at 3 p.m.. (Getty)

Real Madrid maintained its narrow margin at the top with a 5-1 drubbing of Athletic Bilbao last weekend, this was right after Barcelona humiliated Almeria away from home with a masterful 8-0 demolition. Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi scored hat-tricks in their respective matches for Los Blancos and the Blaugrana.

Here is a list of El Clasico-related programming on GOL TV Canada in the five days before the contest, starting with Barcelona's 8-0 weekend destruction of Almeria Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010
7pm ET/4pm PT – La Liga encore – Almeria x Barcelona (11/20/10)

Thursday, November 25, 2010
7am ET/4am PT – La Liga encore – Real Madrid x Ath. Bilbao (11/20/10)
6pm ET/3pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
8pm ET/5pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Friday, November 26, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
6pm ET/3pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
9pm ET/6pm PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
10pm ET/7pm PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
10:30pm ET/7:30pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Saturday, November 27, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
7am ET/4am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
8am ET/5am PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
4pm ET/1pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
7pm ET/4pm PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
2:30am ET/11:30pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
3:30am ET/12:30am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
4am ET/1am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
4:30am ET/1:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona

Sunday, November 28, 2010
6:30am ET/3:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
9:30am ET/6:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
10:30am ET/7:30am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
11am ET/8am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
2pm ET/11am PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
5pm ET/2pm PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
6pm ET/3pm PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
9:30pm ET/6:30pm PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
4am ET/1am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
5am ET/2am PT – El Clasico – Series Goals
5:30am ET/2:30am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments

Monday, November 29, 2010
6am ET/3am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
11am ET/8am PT – El Clasico – Historical Moments
11:30am ET/8:30am PT – 60+ - Barcelona x Real Madrid (12/13/08)
12:30pm ET/9:30am PT – 60+ - Real Madrid x Barcelona (5/2/09)
1:30pm ET/10:30am PT – The Movie – Real Madrid x Barcelona
2:30pm ET/11:30am PT – El Clasico Pregame coverage
3pm ET/12pm PT – El Clasico: Barcelona x Real Madrid – LIVE
7pm ET/4pm PT - El Clasico Barcelona x Real Madrid – game encore

Rooney's Calculated Risk

Asif Hossain — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:34:00 GMT

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The end of Wayne Rooney’s successful, yet strange week at Old Trafford comes after the forward used a tact many modern players are taking to negotiate their contracts. Whether in Manchester or Toronto, players now take their private monetary spats public in order to put a squeeze on the decision makers.

In Toronto, we remember the very open check signing gesture by Dwayne De Rosario at BMO Field in September after scoring a goal in the midst of the Reds’ ultimately unsuccessful MLS Cup Playoffs chase. Rooney’s predicament isn’t much different in principle but unlike some footballers taking this approach, matters such as age and various market factors play wildly to the United man's favour.

Wayne Rooney and England slumbered out of the World Cup but the Englishman remains a star at Old Trafford. (Getty)

Despite tanking at the World Cup in South Africa, Rooney’s worth at Old Trafford remains strong. He is only turning 25 this month. In search of a birthday gift of higher wages, Rooney wrestled for public attention against the master of media diversion tactics, his manager Sir Alex Ferguson. In the end both men can claim victory – the player in particular for getting exactly what he wanted.

When the list of 50 best paid footballers was released earlier this year, the Manchester United forward was slotted in 20th place for the bargain price of roughly $9 million a year (cdn). This was revealed while Rooney was in the midst of his most productive season in the world’s richest league. His superb form had England’s World Cup starved supporters unadvisedly dreaming of a glorious return to 1966.

Ahead of Rooney on that list were his England international contemporaries Frank Lampard, John Terry, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand. Also earning a bigger pay packet than the former-Everton man were EPL’s foreign imports Emmanuel Adebayor, Carlos Tevez and Fernando Torres.

Rooney likely fancied himself ahead of this lot given his importance to Manchester United in the post-Ronaldo era. United's desperation to not have another big name player walk out of Old Trafford wasn't lost on the player or his handlers.

The new contract will likely put Rooney in the neighbourhood of cross town Manchester City rivals Adebayor and Tevez, who are EPL’s two highest paid players. Rooney instantly became City’s potential target when the news of unrest at Old Trafford broke this week. His sudden commitment to Manchester United for five years in the last 24-hours means the Abu Dhabi owned Blues will have to settle for some other prize at an obscene price in the January transfer window.

Some in the media are praising Ferguson for turning Rooney’s threat to walk out of Old Trafford into a victory for Manchester United. But players and agents will have learned that putting the club in a position to prove their commitment to a bright future – as Rooney had done – can secure higher wages for star players.

This is not a perfect formula for all however, at 25 and nearing the peak of his career, Rooney’s handlers played the hand of a lifetime and won.

Has Liverpool Been Saved?

Asif Hossain — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 15:35:00 GMT

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Liverpool Football Club supporters were jubilant on Wednesday to learn that London’s High Court effectively killed any bid by its present owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett to block the sale of the famous team.

The news comes after nearly two years of organized and sustained protests by Liverpool supporters against the American duo, accused of failing to deliver the resources needed to compete in the English Premier League. Their biggest crime: building up crippling debts in the neighbourhood of $380 million (cdn) leaving Liverpool at the mercy of its creditors.

Christian Purslow punched the air as he left London's High Court on the side of victory Wednesday morning. (Liverpool Echo)

Seeing an opportunity to collect on their loan, the club’s chief financial backer Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is ready to unload Liverpool to another U.S. group, New England Sports Ventures (NESV).

The fight over the North West England club has played out a bit like the American Civil War. The South is being led by tough talking Texan, Mr. Hicks while John Henry II – owner of baseball’s revived Boston Red Sox – leads the bid for the northerners.

While bloodshed was limited to only the pocketbooks in this battle, the northern forces once again prevailed as the High Court not only decided in favour of RBS, the ruling has left the Hicks-Gillett camp with potentially a staggering loss of $161 million (cdn) and no chance to appeal the decision.

Club chairman Martin Broughton, who led the five-man Liverpool board on a 3-2 revolt against Mr. Hicks and Mr. Gillett was ecstatic as he declared, "justice has been done."

Mr. Hicks had tried unsuccessfully to reshape the board with his own cohorts he handpicked to replace Broughton allies Christian Purslow and Ian Ayre. The judge in the case deemed Mr. Hicks’ attempt to be in breach of an agreement that he and Mr. Gillett had made with RBS.

With Hicks-Gillett pushed to the curb*, the path is now clear for Mr. Broughton and the board to sell Liverpool. It is likely that NESV will become new owners by end of week.

There is no guarantee that the new set of U.S.-based owners will be any better than the ones who are about to leave the hallowed grounds of Anfield after nearly condemning it to administration status.

What is known about Mr. Henry is that he loves to win and doesn’t merely invest in sports properties to earn a quick profit. He is also accustomed to spending heavily on talent to compete against the New York Yankees in baseball. Lavish, carefree expenditure is a minimum requirement to lift the English (and European) league title.

Mr. Broughton, Mr. Purslow and Mr. Ayre left the courtroom to the kind of ovation from Liverpool supporters usually reserved for Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. Should it happen that they have found an owner that will cause the Anfield Museum to overflow with silverware, then these three gentlemen may take their place in Liverpool history alongside founder John Houlding. That’s how important this court victory might prove to be for the 18-time English champions on the verge of financial and existential disaster under its soon-to-be former owners.

*A sports lawyer argues Mr. Hicks & Mr. Gillett may be able to launch another legal challenge, though they will more than likely still lose the club.

Anselmi Weighs In On De Rosario

Asif Hossain — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:45:00 GMT

Toronto FC captain Dwayne De Rosario came under scrutiny after his Saturday goal celebration during a match that his Reds lost to San Jose 3-2.

Instead of the trademark "shuffle" or "shake & bake" that fans are accustomed to following the skipper’s goals, De Rosario made a cheque signing motion while looking up at the sidelines after scoring one of the top goals of the week in Major League Soccer.

The gesture set off a tidal wave of comments about tact. On Monday Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment executive vice president and chief operating officer, Tom Anselmi, weighed in on The FAN 590 during a popular radio program.

"That's just not team behaviour and just unacceptable," said Anselmi of the celebration that took some of the shine off the goal itself. San Jose immediately countered and within seconds took a 3-1 lead.

De Rosario’s message that he believes he is underpaid is heard loud and clear by Anselmi but the captain’s professionalism has come into question in many circles.

"I think the message sucked, because that is putting personal interest above team and that's not what good teams do."

Anselmi however, does not call De Rosario’s personal character into question and insists that the Toronto-native is "a good guy" who simply aired his displeasure in the most unfortunate circumstance.

The loss kept Toronto seven points adrift of the final MLS Cup playoff spot with four rounds left to play. De Rosario has 12 league goals this season.

Stars Have Aligned

Asif Hossain — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 11:50:00 GMT

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The stars have aligned for Major League Soccer and coincidentally, for GOL TV Canada starting Friday afternoon.

A few hours after the Bundesliga kicks off this weekend on the channel (Cologne v. Hoffenheim at 2:25 p.m. – more on this later), a star studded match-up that would have been too far-fetched to even dream of just four years ago in North American circles, is taking place Friday night in California. Los Angeles Galaxy with David Beckham and Everton target Landon Donovan in tow, host the New York Red Bulls in MLS Week 26 live on GOL at 11 p.m. EST.

David Beckham could start on Friday for Los Angeles against New York. (Getty)

New York doesn’t travel lightly these days. The team features former France and Arsenal superstar *Thierry Henry, who still has a deadly touch on him (yes, with his feet). The forward is serviced by Mexican midfielder Rafael Marquez, who showed at the World Cup that he is far from reaching his best-before date.

Los Angeles is fighting for the Supporters’ Shield trophy, awarded to the league winner in MLS. Both teams are poised for an extensive MLS Cup Playoffs run, which could culminate in a final standoff at Toronto’s BMO Field on Novemeber 21. The Canadian site has been chosen to host 2010 MLS Cup Final and Friday's match could well be a preview.

Back to that earlier match on Friday, Hoffenheim is third in the Bundesliga sitting five points adrift of surprising German leader Mainz. Cologne lost to Mainz last week and a second loss against a team near the top will add major doubt to a team that has yet to get the best footbal form out of German international idol Lukas Podolski.

Speakng of Mainz, the pretenders will be tested heavily Saturday morning on GOL at 9:25 a.m. against the defending champion Bayern Munich. This will be a statement match for both sides. Mainz can prove to a skeptical football world that their strong start is merited, while Bayern slumped to an unthinkable eighth place after five rounds, must move up the table lest they face further lashes from the media and supporters.

As always, La Liga is heavily represented on GOL’s weekend docket. On Saturday it’s Levante v. Real Madrid at 1:45 p.m., followed immediately by Athletic Bilbao v. Barcelona. Viewers that fell in love with little Hercules when they beat mighty Barcelona two weeks ago, can catch them again on Sunday at 12:55 p.m. taking on another Spanish giant, Sevilla.

Here is a rundown of the star studded live matches – a total of nine – this weekend from Germany, United States (MLS), Spain and Colombia:

Friday
2:25 p.m. – Cologne v. Hoffenheim
11:00 p.m. – Los Angeles v. New York

Saturday
9:25 a.m. – Mainz v. Bayern Munich
1:45 p.m. – Levante v. Real Madrid
3:55 p.m. – Athletic Bilbao v. Barcelona
7:30 p.m. – Millonarios v. America
9:30 p.m. – Cucuta v. Medellin

Sunday
12:55 p.m. Hercules v. Sevilla
2:55 p.m. Atletico Madrid v. Zaragoza

For the full programming schedule click here.

*Editor's note: Thierry Henry missed the match due to a knee injury.

Live Games Galore

Asif Hossain — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 14:57:00 GMT

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I hosted the Live Matchday Blog on TorontoFC.ca during Wednesday’s CONCACAF Champions League match. At some point during the Reds’ 4-1 drubbing at the feet of a superior Salt Lake side, I found myself on the defensive about GOL TV Canada.

Some of the charges levied against this network were that it only shows obscure South American club matches and Toronto FC games (as it was doing on Wednesday) and that’s about it.

German World Cup hero Mesut Özil moved from Werder Bremen to Real Madrid this summer. The Bundesliga from Germany and Spain's La Liga are featured exclusively on GOL TV Canada. (Getty)

I would challenge the accusers to spend this weekend watching GOL.

RELATED: For full September 17-23 schedule, including a list of live matches, click here.

Starting Friday, there are nine live matches beginning with that afternoon’s Bundesliga clash between Frankfurt and Freiburg (2:25 p.m.).

On Saturday GOL is showing Real Madrid’s visit to San Sebastián to play Real Sociedad, a few hours after Bayern Munich v. FC Köln kicks off a lineup of four consecutive live matches starting from 9:25 a.m.

The next day Hamburg, Barcelona, Sevilla and defending Brasileirão champion Flamengo are all featured on goal as part of another quadruple-header from Germany, Spain and Brazil that gets underway at 10:30 a.m.

During the European season, GOL has more live soccer matches than any network in Canada, including Setanta Sports, which costs five times more on a cable or satellite bill.

GOL does not show the English Premier League or Italy’s Serie A because it doesn’t have those contracts. They have to leave something for the other networks to air on Saturday mornings otherwise its competitors would be showing poker, curling and fishing (which some still do at soccer’s expense).

GOL is Canada’s only 24-hour soccer channel and certainly the German top-flight and the best of Spain (including every Barcelona and Real Madrid match live for 37 of 38 weeks), is nothing to scoff at. Neither is the Brasileirão an obscure, unimportant South American league with its players that are regular multi-million dollar targets of major European clubs. GOL delivers games from these countries to Canadian viewers exclusively thanks to its relationship with the U.S. network of the same name.

Complain if you must about the quality of the Uruguayan or Colombian matches shown on GOL, but that is by no means the primary programming on the network, though the football in those countries isn’t half bad and their matches are rightly followed by very passionate fans.

The one drawback to GOL that I will concede is that the feed is still in standard definition and many (including myself) simply grin and bear it. However, as its Spanish viewers will attest over the SAP saga, when GOL makes a promise they tend to follow through, though it takes some time.

Just as GOL delivered SAP to those who prefer to hear Lionel Messi’s magic described in Spanish, the network is working diligently to switch its feed to high definition. There is no set date yet for when the network will transform to HD, but you can bet that this is a priority.

GOL is not perfect, but it doesn’t show stock car racing ahead of soccer, unlike some other networks. It may encounter minor glitches after the HD switch, but it will work through those. In the meantime, its programming value is undeniable if you enjoy live football coverage from some of the world’s best leagues.

S. America Stars During Int'l Weekend

Asif Hossain — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:17:00 GMT

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FIFA International dates this weekend means the top leagues in Europe such as GOL TV Canada's La Liga and Bundesliga are at a standstill. But GOL still has live club football from South America. More on that a little later. First, plenty of news came out of Europe this week with the closing of the UEFA transfer window.

The biggest signing on deadline day came from Sunderland, of all places. The English Premier League team inked Ghana international Asamoah Gyan from French outfit Rennes for approximately $21 million (cdn).

Asamoah Gyan's World Cup ended in tears burdened by the weight of African expectations on his Ghanaian shoulders. He is looking forward to better days with Sunderland in the English Premier League. (Getty

One piece of transfer news that will be of concern to many GOL viewers came from Spain's La Liga. It marked the end of Rafael van der Vaart’s sorry saga at Real Madrid. Like Gyan, the Dutch forward made the move to the EPL. He will suit up in north London for Tottenham. The Spurs paid $12 million (cdn) for his services.

Another GOL TV staple, the German Bundesliga, will see Klaas-Jan Huntelaar join the squad at Schalke. The Dutch teammate to van der Vaart also had an ill-fated stopover at the Bernabeu before being shipped off to Milan. An $18 million (cdn) transfer was forced on Huntelaar when Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived from Barcelona a few days before deadline day.

The Gyan move intrigues me most because after his World Cup performance, I had hoped that the Ghanaian star should leave France to join a top seven EPL side where he could get regular playing time. While Sunderland isn't quite that big, this signing should solidify Sunderland's place in the top 10 this season after finishing 13th in the 2009/10 EPL campaign.

The 24-year old has been heralded as a "top-class striker" by welcoming Sunderland manager Steve Bruce. This was a club record signing for Bruce and he called it "a great piece of business," before continuing that Gyan "works extremely hard … and will complement Darren (Bent) up front" for the Black Cats.

Bent scored 24 goals last season.

Despite most of these stars taking part in international matches for their countries this weekend, GOL TV Canada is not without live club football. On Saturday El Tanque Sisley plays Nacional in a Montevideo derby at 2:25 p.m. in the Primera Division from Uruguay. That will be followed by Corinthians v. Goias from Brazil at 5:25 p.m.

On Sunday, more Brazilian club football with Flamengo v. Santos at 2:55 p.m., just before Atletico Mineiro v. Sao Paulo at 5:25 p.m.

For our full September 3-9 schedule, including the upcoming weekend, click here.

La Liga & More This Weekend

Asif Hossain — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:26:00 GMT

Spain’s La Liga kicks off this weekend on GOL TV Canada with four matches in the opening days.

On Saturday, Malaga v. Valencia will be the inaugural match on GOL to usher in the start of a new Spanish season. Viewers tuning in at 1:55 p.m. EST will get a first look at Los Che without David Villa and David Silva, both sold in the offseason to help the financially struggling outfit that finished third last season.

New boy David Villa will hope to keep Barcelona at the top in 2010-11. (Getty)

Defending champion Barcelona debuts on Sunday, taking on Racing Santander at 1:00 p.m. After spending the last five seasons with Valencia, David Villa is likely to make his league debut for the Catalans, who recently won the Spanish Super Cup.

Real Madrid follows up Barca at 2:55 p.m., taking on Real Mallorca – who were pushed out of the Europa League this year due to massive club debts forcing them into voluntary administration. Mallorca finished fifth last season and under sunnier circumstances could have given Madrid a match in Jose Mourinho’s league debut. However, a depleted, underpaid squad shouldn’t be much of a challenge against Ronaldo et al.

Monday night football is now a regular feature in La Liga. GOL has that angle covered with Atletico Madrid v. Sporting Gijon at 3:55 p.m. Despite Sergio Aguero being linked to Chelsea, the Argentine has remained in the Spanish capital. Diego Forlan also returns for Atletico after the Uruguayan won the Golden Ball and made the All-Star Team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The influx of La Liga matches isn’t great news for everyone. GOL Canada’s provider, GOL USA will occasionally be cutting back on its Bundesliga coverage to accommodate live Spanish matches. That means GOL Canada has one live game this weekend from Germany – Friday at 2:25 p.m., Kaiserslautern v. Bayern Munich. A taped premiere of St. Pauli v. Hoffenheim airs on Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

Including the Major League Soccer match from Carson, California - Chivas USA v. DC United at 10:00 p.m. Saturday - GOL TV Canada will be showing six live matches and six additional taped premieres. A full listing of matches from Friday-Monday can be found here.

Bundesliga Returns

Asif Hossain — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:41:00 GMT

Bundesliga Returns To GOL TV Canada

The German Bundesliga returns to GOL TV Canada this weekend with two matches featurning a pair of heavyweights. Hamburg v. Schalke on Saturday, August 21 at 12:25 p.m. EST and the next day, Borussia Dortmund hosts Bayer Leverkusen at 11:25 a.m. EST.

Michael Ballack re-signed for Bayer Leverkusen, the club he left in 2002 to join Bayern Munich before opting for Chelsea. He is set to make his second debut at the club in the Europa League on Thursday. If he comes through the Europa test at midweek, Ballack should be available for seclection against Dortmund on Sunday.

Bayern Munich won the German title last season with Schalke finishing as runner-up five points back. Ballack's Bayer finished fourth, Dortmund fifth and Hamburg were seventh in the league table.

Milner Move Complete

In non-German news, Manchester City has sealed the deal for now-former Aston Villa winger James Milner a day after Roberto Mancini's club inked Mario Balotelli from Inter Milan. The English international Milner featured in Villa's opening round EPL fixture last Saturday, a 3-0 win over West Ham in which the want-away player scored in his final match. Milner received a warm applause from fans on being substituted late in the match as Villa claimed they were fighting to keep him. However, that seems to be a case of posturing more than anything.

Another reputedly unsettled Premiership player is Javier Mascherano, who also played a vital role for Liverpool in their opening week 1-1 draw to Arsenal. The Argentine captain is thought to be heading to one of Spain or Italy, but set up David N'Gog's goal at Anfield and was warmly received by the Kop.

The upcoming weekend matches include defending champion Chelsea away to Wigan. Runner-up Manchester United visit London to face Fulham, while Liverpool is involved in a second straight high-profile clash next Monday against Manchester City at Eastlands.

Premiership Starts With Twists

Asif Hossain — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:47:00 GMT

Premiershi Starts With Twists

The English Premier League gets underway this weekend and there are several delicious stories that surround the opening fixtures.

The latest has James Milnerincluded in the Aston Villa squad against West Ham, even though the want-away English midfielder is close to signing a deal with Manchester City. In the same week that Martin O’Neill resigned as manager due to his unhappiness with the club’s direction under American owner Randy Lerner, the Milner twist adds a dash of spice at Villa Park. It will be curious to see if he gets a final run out at home, or if the jeers will be saved for when he returns with City on January 11th.

A London battle is brewing between Fulham and Arsenal over goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. The Australian World Cup star has been with Fulham since 2008 but wants a switch to their city rival for a chance to shine at Emirates. Arsenal seems desperate for an experienced keeper since faith in Manuel Almunia has disappeared. The 37-year old Scwarzer is ready to lend his hands to the cause, but new Craven Cottage boss Mark Hughes isn’t keen to lose his man.

Fulham opens away to Reebok Stadium, the home of this summer’s Toronto and BMO Field visitor Bolton Wanderers. Meanwhile, Arsenal travels to Anfield for a clash of titans in the opening weekend versus former Fulham boss Roy Hodgson and Liverpool.

Last season’s Premiership champion Chelsea opens the season at home in Stamford Bridge against newly promoted West Bromwich Albion on their return to the top flight. Runner-up Manchester United doesn’t play until Monday at Old Trafford. They also open against a new but familiar EPL name in Newcastle United.

Can Toronto FC's Away Form Improve?

Asif Hossain — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 20:50:00 GMT

Major League Soccer's Toronto FC will have to right their wrongs on the road if they are to make strides in the CONCACAF Champions League. The Reds are coming off a 1-0 loss to Kansas City in MLS where they failed to create sustained pressure and didn't look like scoring aside from one or two isolated chances.

Motagua, down a goal from the first leg away in this Champions League preliminary round, will look to pull even quickly. A 1-0 Motagua win over 90 minutes would send the match into extra time. Should TFC manage to score and lose by one goal after scoring, they will go through on the away goals rule as teams would be even on aggregate. A 2-0 Motagua win or better would eliminate Toronto.

RELATED:
Match Preview
VIDEO: De Rosario
VIDEO: Mista (en Español)

TV:
The match will be broadcast live on GOL TV Canada at 8 p.m.

ONLINE:
Join me for the Live Matchday Blog at 7:45 p.m. on TorontoFC.ca. You can participate in the chat, comment on the action and watch highlights as they come in while interacting with other TFC supporters during the match.

Frantic Finish To Emirates Cup

Asif Hossain — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 18:32:00 GMT

Frantic Finish To MLS Cup

Arsenal beat Celtic 3-2 on Sunday to win the 2010 Emirates Cup at their own stadium as seen on GOL TV Canada.

The Gunners looked comfortable to go through as winners leading 3-0 with goals from Carlos Vela, Bacary Sagna and Samir Nasri. The introduction of Giorgos Samaras provided a spark for Celitc, with Daryl Murphy and Ki Sung-Yong bringing the Scots back within one. Samaras earlier missed a penalty that could have been Celtic's opener.

The four-team, two day preseason tournament also featured AC Milan and Lyon.

On Day 1 Celtic and Lyon drew 2-2 with the Glaswegians once more fighting back from a deficit with goals inside the final 10 minutes to pull level. Arsenal drew Milan 1-1 later in the day.

That set up Day 2 action where anyone could win it all, but it started in less than spectacular fashion with Milan and Lyon playing to a 1-1 draw. The fireworks were reserved for the tournament finale between Arsenal and Celtic.

In the four-year history of the Emirates Cup, Arsenal has won it three times with German outfit Hamburg spoiling the Londoners' party by lifting the trophy in 2008.

The Morning After: Five Thoughts

Asif Hossain — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:51:00 GMT

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A final not meant for casuals

Those who tune in to watch football once every four years for the World Cup Final were shocked and disappointed by the display between the Netherlands and Spain yesterday.

Andres Iniesta runs to celebrate his extra time goal in the World Cup Final, while Joris Mathijsen can't believe the Dutch misfortune. (Getty)

The brutal tactics employed by the Dutch was antithetical to the sport and muted any chance of Spain playing the free flowing football that those who watch them closely have come to expect.

This is what happens in a cup final. The less talented team will look to muck up the affair. Be it with malicious tackles, finishing their challenges by stepping on toes or kicking at heels, virtually anything they can get away with will be used to stifle the better team’s creativity.

The final is usually the least pleasing to the eyes, unless both teams are equal in talent.

Negative tactics such as what the Dutch used to destroy any chance of inventiveness is a part of the game and can be effective in a one-off situation. Coach Bert van Marwijk makes no apologies for it, but the Dutch media wants some answers.

Best way to avoid this kind of a surprise if you are a neutral is by watching football regularly. Getting the measure of it from a singular match of desperate importance is virtually impossible because one team will often play to win, the other goes out not to lose.

Fly-by-night entertainment happens at casinos. Football lives within those who absorb it.

Thankfully, the better team won and it was redemption for Andres Iniesta. The Barcelona midfielder was kicked every which way on the pitch throughout the 116 minutes before scoring his game winner for Spain with four minutes remaining in extra time.

Howard Webb

With almost fundamentalist zeal, referee Howard Webb let the match go into the realms of the ridiculous on Sunday in Johannesburg.

When Nigel de Jong drop kicked Xabi Alonso while the Spaniard was in mid-air at the 28th minute, Webb should have had enough. In the previous 15-20 minutes the Dutch decided to foul tactically and force the Spaniards out of their flow by kicking at anything wearing a dark blue shirt inside Soccer City.

Instead of the straight red card as it should have been, Webb only cautioned the Manchester City midfielder, allowing the madness to spill over into the remaining hour and extra time.

Prior to the match Webb was adamant that he didn’t want the spotlight to be on him at the Final. By shying away from making the right decision when it mattered most – which would have been to exile de Jong to the dressing room and force Holland to play football – Webb had to continue to tolerate the Dutch excess and subsequent Spanish response.

Puyol should have been sent off

This Nigel de Jong kick to Xabi Alonso's chest at the 28th minute could have been called more severely by referee Howard Webb. (Getty)

Yes, when Arjen Robben was on his second breakaway (he was stopped by Iker Casillas’ leg in the first), he was impeded by Carles Puyol.

Shockingly, Robben didn’t go down, possibly knowing that his reputation as a diver would have worked against him if he had. Regardless, Puyol should have picked up his second yellow card on the missed foul and been sent off.

However, if we are working with hypothetical red cards, this situation might not have ever come to being had Webb sent off at least de Jong for his assault on Alonso and possibly Mark van Bommel for sweeping Iniesta’s leg at the 22nd minute. Both de Jong and van Bommel were out to cripple Spain’s influential midfielders Xavi and Iniesta. They both got away with it because it’s the Final. Why not Puyol?

As far as the match goes, Webb put the clubs level on cause for injustice by ignoring Puyol’s infraction. He knew, as did the 700 million people watching (aside from maybe those wearing orange), that sending off a Spanish player before a single Dutch ejection would have been ethically criminal.

The Dutch were lucky not to be playing with nine players at the time of Puyol’s interference with Robben. Had Webb followed the letter of the law, a numeric advantage for Spain would have already put the match out of reach at time of the incident.

Nobody is walking away from football

Away from the Final now and thinking about the tournament as a whole, one of the most annoying things to me during this World Cup was the ‘we know better’ attitude from North American pundits. Maybe it was happening elsewhere too, but I was more acutely aware of it in my own backyard.

Most of us in Canada and the United States that watched every match, enjoyed the football and commented on the tactics and festivities. But a few decided it was their mission to advocate radical reforms in football to make the beautiful game more perfect.

False prophets. The game is thriving everywhere and there is no need to convert the non-believers. They'll never come.

The incessant calls for video replay, with near-zero elaboration on its viability or employment across the board just because North American sports use it, is more arrogant than anything FIFA has conjured up lately.

Then came the even more atrocious nag on Luis Suarez as a ‘cheat’ because he did what every player in the world would do if his country was faced with elimination from the World Cup. This wasn't just a North American disease, but it was rampant enough both in print and on television here to merit a mention.

Do the ‘cheat’ journalists truly believe that with his goal-preventing handball, Suarez planned for the brilliant Asamoah Gyan to miss a match-winning penalty, or for two of his teammates to take dreadful spot kicks in the shootout bringing Africa to tears?

Suarez isn't that good.

The Uruguayan was ejected for his action and Ghana had a chance to win the match fair and square. He missed. There wasn’t any cheating.

Rules that govern the world’s game do not need to change drastically because the self-righteous sensibilities of a few journalists were offended on a July night in Johannesburg.

The most ridiculous are those who make the unfounded and unsubstantiated accusation that people will walk away from this game because of such actions as that of Suarez.

The game doesn't have a 'growth' problem. It's popular, even in the United States. What it does have a problem with are meddlers who would rather see it in their own image than accept its vibrancy.

Luis Suarez may be a hero in Uruguay, but some journalists insist on attaching the 'cheat' label on him. (Getty)

If North American sports aren’t obliterated by its athletes taking steroids, facing rape or murder charges off the playing field and beating up taxi drivers in Buffalo, the world isn’t going to walk away from football because there were a small handful of controversies.

Pundits should also know that it makes for boring television when three or four men sit at a desk agreeing with each other about the need for video replay without entertaining any of the opposing views with guests or analysts that disagree. Perhaps they should get John Doyle on to defend the purists.

Another solution could be if the reformists and doom merchants could start walking away from the game themselves and see if anyone follows.

I bet they won't try that one.

Overall refereeing was good

The previous entry takes me into this point.

All of the vitriol that was generated over the disallowed Maurice Edu goal in USA-Slovenia and Frank Lampard’s no-goal call against Germany was more than a bit much.

While these two things could have impacted the tournament, it largely didn’t. Neither did the call Mexico suffered against Argentina when Carlos Tevez was offside before heading in the Lionel Messi floater.

Yet we had to hear about poor officiating as though it happened on a regular basis. Well, it didn’t.

According to a study of the officiating leading up to the Final, referees’ calls in matches were 96% correct. The same pundits that like to harangue endlessly about accuracy, must enjoy that stat. But, it likely won’t be good enough for them.

WC Day 31: The Final Match

Asif Hossain — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 16:55:16 GMT

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Day 31 - 11:00 a.m. EST

David Villa is one of two remaining candidates for the Golden Boot along with World Cup Final opponent Wesley Sneijder. (Getty)

The day roughly one out of every sixth person in the world waits four years to see has finally arrived. It's the World Cup Final and this edition features a first-time matchup in the most advanced stage of the tournament, pitting the Netherlands versus Spain.

The Dutch have been here before in 1974 and 1978 while it's Spain's first trip to the final.

Neither country has ever lifted the most coveted prize on the planet and whoever leaves South Africa with the FIFA World Cup Trophy will only become the eighth nation to do so.

Added intrigue is provided by Wesley Sneijder of Holland and Spaniard David Villa, who are tied with five goals each for the tournament's Golden Boot along with Thomas Müller of Germany and Uruguay's Diego Forlan.

My pick is Spain, it has been since before the start and I'll go down with that ship if it comes to it - though unlikely to happen.

The match kicks off at 2:00 p.m. EST. Here is a collection of stories looking ahead to the Final.

David Villa wants Spain to stifle Dutch attack
Gio van Bronckhorst hails Dutch spirit
Spain seeks unity over World Cup
Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk stays focused
Spain defined by its heroes
Netherlands practices pragmatism
World leaders and celbrities to attend the Final.