The weekend preview
Posted on | September 4, 2009 | No Comments
It always takes me by surprise when the European leagues down tools after only a few games to facilitate the international break. The timing seems odd, but with so much football now played, all the time, there’s never going to be an ideal slot is there?
The highlight of the weekend is in Argentina, where the hosts take on Brazil in a vital World Cup qualifier on Saturday night.
Brazil are top of the South American qualifying table after 14 games, but Argentina are down in fourth, in the final automatic qualification spot, and need a win to stay there – Ecuador are lurking two points behind them and travel to Colombia earlier in the day.
Que added pressure on Argentina coach Diego Maradona, who has enjoyed at best erratic results so far. However, in the Albiceleste’s last game, a friendly against Russia, the side played some exciting attacking football and clinched a 4-2 win, in part due to Maradona’s brave squad selections.
Rosario promises fierce atmosphere
The venue on Saturday will be the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito – home of Rosario, rather than the usual Monumental. The reason for the change is simple – the 60,000 capacity Monumental, while bigger, has a running track which means the fans are miles from the pitch, while Rosario’s ground (below) is a smaller 40,000-seater where the crowd are right on top of the players.
Maradona knows Argentina will need every advantage to overcome Brazil, who will tear them apart on the counter attack if Argentina go too gung-ho. Much will depend on Lionel Messi, Balon D’Or winner in waiting. If he can shine, then Argentina just might pull off a famous win. If they lack discipline, as they did at times against Russia, then Argentina will be in trouble.
In the Central American table Mexico are off to Costa Rica and the USA are looking for a comeback win against El Salvador in Utah.
Portugal and France needing three points
Back in Europe and some other big names are struggling – Portugal take on Denmark and have to win to maintain their chances of qualification. Portugal lost at home to the Danes last year and face them in Copenhagen while standing a whopping seven points behind the group leaders. Only a win will do for Ronaldo and Co as Hungary are above them in second too, and have a four point cushion.
France, second in their group behind Serbia, need a win at home to Romania on Saturday to cement a challenge for automatic qualification.
Chris Breese
[Photo: Pablo D Flores GNU -Rosario Stadium]
Tags: Argentina > Brazil > Denmark > Diego Maradona > France > Lionel Messi > Mexico > Portugal > Rosario > Serbia > World Cup 2010
Comments
Leave a comment