After a month long's worth of competition, the 2011 Copa America is wrapping up and this week served up the Semi-Finals which featured undoubtedly 4 sides many didn't expect to be in such a position with exception to Uruguay. However, one thing that is certain is that each of these 4 teams reached this point deservedly.
This weekend saw 4 South American countries advance to the Copa America Semi-Finals and although there has been no clear favorite based on Group Stage play; we were still surprised with the results.
The 2011 Copa America competition kicked off at the start of the month as tournament hosts and favorites Argentina faced off against Bolivia. This tournament represents the South American national football championship and it's being contested by 12 countries. Of the 12 nations, 10 of them make up the South American football association (CONMEBOL) while 2 nations were invited from the CONCACAF association representing North and Central America; those 2 nations are Mexico and Costa Rica.
Of the 12 nations, 8 will advance from the 3 groups to make up the quarter-finals of the tournament. Will the usual suspects make it through? Can Argentina finally get over the hump and impress at home? Will Brazil once again dominate? Or will a dark-horse emerge and claim the Copa America?
Millwall Rule is an Xtratime member and contributor who has recently taken it upon himself to compose a list of players from FIFA's Top 50 ranked countries. He'll be listing his Top 5 players ,along with a bio for each, of FIFA's Top 50.
There are already a few up so check it out by clicking on the picture below!
Throughout the past several seasons it's been clear, although there are many great players around the world, it seems that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have established a standard that no other player can emulate in the top flight.
Sepp Blatter has been re-elected as FIFA President amidst corruption allegations which have been seen widespread over the organization that is the governing body of world football. Although many are shocked, it's really nothing new during Blatter's tenure of now 4 terms which all started in 1998.
Copa America is right around the corner starting in July and as an avid soccer fan I know that we all start going crazy trying to grab our gear to support our nations.
So below I posted some jersey listings I found for those participating in the tournament.
So the associated press is reporting that Spain are considering an offer to take Japan's slot at this summer's Copa America in Argentina. Japan withdrew from the tournament given the current condition the nation is in, which the whole world knows. If Spain is being allowed to participate then why not Portugal?
Four years ago, we witnessed an Italian national side grind it's way through 7 matches and eventually claim it's 4th World Cup title. What was interesting about this special squad above everything else was that all 23 of their players were based at Italian clubs, a feat that no other national super power could emulate. The only other side who posted a squad comprised of domestic based players was Saudi Arabia. This interesting fact was touched upon by a few pundits and commentators as perhaps having a definite impact upon Italian success. Although the 23 did not all play at the same club, playing at home seemed to offer a better sense of understanding between the players and possibly better comradery.
Zidane and Figo exchange jerseys signaling the end of a generation.
It was only 4 years ago that we were still watching veterans Zinedine Zidane and Luis Figo suit up for Real Madrid. Chelsea was playing football the Ranieri style and Arsenal finished perfect. The so called minnows Monaco and FC Porto featured in the UEFA Champion's League final which ended in a 3 goal inspired win for Porto by big time new comer Deco. The "Special One" was born and we embarked on Euro 2004.