After five draws in the opening six games, it was refreshing to see Group D begin with two winning results. Ivory Coast were expected to walk over Togo with the amount of past and present Premiership quality on show, but they needed a late goal from Gervinho to win 2-1. Algeria and Tunisia also looked to be heading to the second goalless draw of the tournament, but a screamer from Youssef Msakni in injury time gave Tunisia the valuable three points.
Togo looked much quicker out of the blocks and Kolo Toure also cost Ivory Coast within the opening two minutes when his failed pass back put Emmanuel Adebayor in. But the Spurs striker couldn't convert chance after the defence got back to recover to force him wide. But Ivory Coast's class shone through as they took the lead with their first chance after just eight minutes. Arsenal's Gervinho jinxed his way through the defence before the ball sprung loose. It fell into the path of Manchester City's Yaya Toure who smashed it home via a deflection.
This seemed the set the tone of the game and would it become a question of how many. But this wasn't the case as Togo dealt with the lively Gervinho while Adebayor continued to threaten his former Arsenal teammate, Kolo Toure. A minute before half time and it was almost deja vu when Yaya Toure found himself in the same sort of space he scored from. But this time his shot cannoned off the post and Togo were spared.
Straight from that miss, Togo went up the other end and won a corner. The Ivory Coast defence didn't deal with it properly and Jonathan Ayite crept in to stab it home with virtually the last kick of the half. Togo though they should have taken the lead just before the hour mark. It was another corner which got turned in. But the referee disallowed it because he felt substitute Salomon Kalou was still entering the field of play.
The speed and flow of the game decreased as the second half progressed but both teams had chances to win it. Yaya Toure had a shot smartly saved by Kossi Agassa while Togo were seeking to create another chance from another corner. The winner finally came two minutes from time when Yaya Toure's free-kick flew over everyone until Gervinho managed a smart flick with the outside of his foot to score from an acute angle. Togo did get a corner in the dying seconds, but it was easily defended and Ivory Coast held onto the three points.
The second match between Algeria and Tunisia was just as easily anticipated and on paper looked to be a heated but talented affair from the two rivals. But, like many of the opening eight games, it failed to really hit the highs of international football.
Also like many of the games so far, a lot of fouls caused the match to be very stop-start. Tunisia were dealt a blow just after the quarter of an hour mark when Issam Jemaa had to be substituted after picking up an injury. The fouls continued to to hamper the game but Algeria came the closest to breaking the deadlock when Islam Slimani smashed the crossbar from a header just before the half hour mark.
The first half would only really remembered for the amount of petty fouls but Rais Mbolhi did produce a good save to prevent Saber Khelifa from breaking the deadlock. The second half was just as bitty as the first, the first real chance came to Djamel Mesbah but his shot just missed the post and went wide.
Algeria did have most of the ball in the second half but couldn't carve any real opportunities to give them lead. Tunisia's best effort of the half came 15-minutes from the end when Hamdi Harbaoui's shot also just sailed wide. With the game petering out to a goalless draw until 22-year old Youssef Msakni smashed a fantastic shot, out of nowhere, into the top corner to give Tunisia all three points. Msakni looked a hot young prospect last year and this goal may begin to continue to prove it.
Tuesday, 22 January 2013
Monday, 21 January 2013
Pochettino Starts With Bore Draw
Southampton 0-0 Everton: Mauricio Pochettino's first game in charge of Southampton ends with a respectful point against Everton. The point for Southampton sees them move four points clear of the relegation zone. The point for Everton sees them sit four points ahead of Arsenal, who have a game in hand, but three points Tottenham in the battle for fourth place.
Tottenham 1-1 Manchester United: United's lead at the top has been cut to five after a late equaliser by Tottenham. Robin Van Persie was on hand to head home a Tom Cleverley cross on 25-minutes to give United the lead. United were holding on throughout the second half and should have had a penalty when Wayne Rooney was brought down. But United's resistance was finally broken in the final minute of injury time when a poor punch from David De Gea went straight to Aaron Lennon who squared the ball for Clint Dempsey to slot home, moving them four points clear of Everton in fourth.
Chelsea 2-1 Arsenal: Chelsea move 11-points behind Manchester United after staving off an Arsenal comeback. The deadlock was broken after just six minutes when Juan Mata fired Chelsea ahead following a great chance missed by Olivier Giroud. Chelsea were awarded a penalty on 16-minutes when Ramires was tripped by Wojiech Szczesny. Szczesny was perhaps lucky to stay on the pitch and try to save Frank Lampard's spot-kick, but the midfielder expertly placed the effort into the bottom corner. Arsenal pulled one back two minutes before the hour mark when Theo Walcott broke through the offside trap. But it wasn't enough for them to find an equaliser late on and they sit seven points off the Champions League places.
Newcastle 1-2 Reading: Newcastle are now eerily just two points ahead of relegation and right in the middle of the scrap after surrendering their lead to lose to Reading. The deadlock was broken ten minutes before half-time when Yohan Cabaye chipped the nine-man wall from a free-kick into the top corner. But, just like against West Brom, Reading fought back and Adam Le Fondre equalised on 71-minutes with his first touch. It was a low cross from Jimmy Kebe that Le Fondre somehow slid over the line with his body. Le Fondre made it 2-1 six minutes later, pouncing on a loose ball after Hope Akpan hit an air shot. This is Reading's first away victory courtesy of Le Fondre's first away goals in the Premiership which moves them up to 18th and just a point away from safety.
Liverpool 5-0 Norwich: For the second time this season, Liverpool smash five past Norwich. Jordan Henderson gave Liverpool the lead on 26-minutes with a smashing half volley from long range. After getting at hat-trick at Carrow Road, Luis Suarez made it 2-0 ten minutes later after being played through by Daniel Sturridge. Sturridge would make it 3-0 with his third goal in three games just before the hour mark, turning in Stewart Downing's low cross. The irrepressible Steven Gerrard added the fourth from long range into the bottom corner on 66-minutes with Ryan Bennett completing the rout by putting the ball into his own net from Raheem Sterling's cross on 74-minutes. The win sees them move to seventh, level on points with Arsenal above them and West Brom below them. Norwich may begin to start looking over their shoulders as they are now seven points from safety.
Wigan 2-3 Sunderland: Wigan move back into the relegation zone and a point from safety. Wigan took the lead after just four minutes when David Vaughn put the ball into his own net. Sunderland were given a penalty for handball in the wall from a free-kick on 17-minutes. Craig Gardner stepped up and converted it coolly into the bottom corner to level the match. Steven Fletcher scored the only goal when these two met at the Stadium of Light and it was he who made it 2-1 three minutes later with a volley from close distance after Ali Al-Habsi had parried the initial shot from him. Fletcher would then make it 3-1 with a strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time. On-loan striker Angelo Henriquez managed to pull one back 11-minutes from time with a header from a Shaun Maloney cross, his first in English football, but it wasn't enough to inspire a comeback.
West Brom 2-2 Aston Villa: Villa surrender a two goal lead, but the point is enough to move out of the relegation by that solitary point. Villa took the lead on 12-minutes when Christian Benteke hit a great finish on the turn for his tenth of the season. It was 2-0 just after the half hour mark when Gabriel Agbonlahor finished well after cutting inside for only his second goal in the league this season. West Brom pulled one back four minutes into the second half when Romelu Lukaku played the ball back to Chris Brunt to smash inside the post. The point was then secured seven minutes from time when Peter Odemwingie volleyed in a Gareth McAuley header from a corner.
West Ham 1-1 QPR: QPR remain bottom of the table, five points from safety, after this point on Harry Redknapp's return to Upton Park. Loic Remy's debut sprung into life after just 14-minutes after breaking the offside trap to give QPR the lead. West Ham equalised on 68-minutes when Joe Cole rebounded a parried Carlton Cole header for his first West Ham goal in his second spell.
Swansea 3-1 Stoke: Swansea move four points clear of Stoke after this midfield battle. The deadlock was broken four minutes into the second half with Ben Davies scoring his first senior goal with great composure. Jonathan De Guzman made it 2-0 with a great free-kick on 57-minutes. De Guzman would make it 3-0 ten minutes from the end when he rounded off a great team goal after being put through one-on-one by Danny Graham. Stoke's consolation came in injury time with Michael Owen scoring his 150th Premier League goal, heading home a Cameron Jerome cross for his first Stoke goal.
Manchester City 2-0 Fulham: City close the gap to five points. David Silva made it 1-0 after just 95-seconds when he slotted Dzeko's parried shot past Mark Schwarzer. David Silva also got the second with a silky goal and slight lob over Schwarzer on 69-minutes.
Tottenham 1-1 Manchester United: United's lead at the top has been cut to five after a late equaliser by Tottenham. Robin Van Persie was on hand to head home a Tom Cleverley cross on 25-minutes to give United the lead. United were holding on throughout the second half and should have had a penalty when Wayne Rooney was brought down. But United's resistance was finally broken in the final minute of injury time when a poor punch from David De Gea went straight to Aaron Lennon who squared the ball for Clint Dempsey to slot home, moving them four points clear of Everton in fourth.
Chelsea 2-1 Arsenal: Chelsea move 11-points behind Manchester United after staving off an Arsenal comeback. The deadlock was broken after just six minutes when Juan Mata fired Chelsea ahead following a great chance missed by Olivier Giroud. Chelsea were awarded a penalty on 16-minutes when Ramires was tripped by Wojiech Szczesny. Szczesny was perhaps lucky to stay on the pitch and try to save Frank Lampard's spot-kick, but the midfielder expertly placed the effort into the bottom corner. Arsenal pulled one back two minutes before the hour mark when Theo Walcott broke through the offside trap. But it wasn't enough for them to find an equaliser late on and they sit seven points off the Champions League places.
Newcastle 1-2 Reading: Newcastle are now eerily just two points ahead of relegation and right in the middle of the scrap after surrendering their lead to lose to Reading. The deadlock was broken ten minutes before half-time when Yohan Cabaye chipped the nine-man wall from a free-kick into the top corner. But, just like against West Brom, Reading fought back and Adam Le Fondre equalised on 71-minutes with his first touch. It was a low cross from Jimmy Kebe that Le Fondre somehow slid over the line with his body. Le Fondre made it 2-1 six minutes later, pouncing on a loose ball after Hope Akpan hit an air shot. This is Reading's first away victory courtesy of Le Fondre's first away goals in the Premiership which moves them up to 18th and just a point away from safety.
Liverpool 5-0 Norwich: For the second time this season, Liverpool smash five past Norwich. Jordan Henderson gave Liverpool the lead on 26-minutes with a smashing half volley from long range. After getting at hat-trick at Carrow Road, Luis Suarez made it 2-0 ten minutes later after being played through by Daniel Sturridge. Sturridge would make it 3-0 with his third goal in three games just before the hour mark, turning in Stewart Downing's low cross. The irrepressible Steven Gerrard added the fourth from long range into the bottom corner on 66-minutes with Ryan Bennett completing the rout by putting the ball into his own net from Raheem Sterling's cross on 74-minutes. The win sees them move to seventh, level on points with Arsenal above them and West Brom below them. Norwich may begin to start looking over their shoulders as they are now seven points from safety.
Wigan 2-3 Sunderland: Wigan move back into the relegation zone and a point from safety. Wigan took the lead after just four minutes when David Vaughn put the ball into his own net. Sunderland were given a penalty for handball in the wall from a free-kick on 17-minutes. Craig Gardner stepped up and converted it coolly into the bottom corner to level the match. Steven Fletcher scored the only goal when these two met at the Stadium of Light and it was he who made it 2-1 three minutes later with a volley from close distance after Ali Al-Habsi had parried the initial shot from him. Fletcher would then make it 3-1 with a strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time. On-loan striker Angelo Henriquez managed to pull one back 11-minutes from time with a header from a Shaun Maloney cross, his first in English football, but it wasn't enough to inspire a comeback.
West Brom 2-2 Aston Villa: Villa surrender a two goal lead, but the point is enough to move out of the relegation by that solitary point. Villa took the lead on 12-minutes when Christian Benteke hit a great finish on the turn for his tenth of the season. It was 2-0 just after the half hour mark when Gabriel Agbonlahor finished well after cutting inside for only his second goal in the league this season. West Brom pulled one back four minutes into the second half when Romelu Lukaku played the ball back to Chris Brunt to smash inside the post. The point was then secured seven minutes from time when Peter Odemwingie volleyed in a Gareth McAuley header from a corner.
West Ham 1-1 QPR: QPR remain bottom of the table, five points from safety, after this point on Harry Redknapp's return to Upton Park. Loic Remy's debut sprung into life after just 14-minutes after breaking the offside trap to give QPR the lead. West Ham equalised on 68-minutes when Joe Cole rebounded a parried Carlton Cole header for his first West Ham goal in his second spell.
Swansea 3-1 Stoke: Swansea move four points clear of Stoke after this midfield battle. The deadlock was broken four minutes into the second half with Ben Davies scoring his first senior goal with great composure. Jonathan De Guzman made it 2-0 with a great free-kick on 57-minutes. De Guzman would make it 3-0 ten minutes from the end when he rounded off a great team goal after being put through one-on-one by Danny Graham. Stoke's consolation came in injury time with Michael Owen scoring his 150th Premier League goal, heading home a Cameron Jerome cross for his first Stoke goal.
Manchester City 2-0 Fulham: City close the gap to five points. David Silva made it 1-0 after just 95-seconds when he slotted Dzeko's parried shot past Mark Schwarzer. David Silva also got the second with a silky goal and slight lob over Schwarzer on 69-minutes.
Zambia and Nigeria Start With 1-1 Draws
Both of the favourites to progress from Group C began their campaigns with 1-1 draws after initially taking the lead. Defending champions Zambia were in perhaps the most dramatic match of the tournament so far against 10-man Ethiopia while 10-man Nigeria suffered a late blow against Burkina Faso.
Zambia began the match looking the much better team and perhaps the brightest of the tournament so far. Ethiopia were struggling to resist the passing game run by Christopher Katongo and their bungled attempts of playing from the back only gave Zambia more impetus.
Despite this attacking intent, it was actually Ethiopia would claim the first corner and also have the clearest sight on goal. A long ball from the defence was completely missed by Stophira Sunzu which allowed Saladin Said in on goal. The hard, dry pitch caused the ball to bounce higher than normal and Said could only poke the ball over Kennedy Mweene. On any other pitch, the poke would have been enough to drop right into the net to give Ethiopia the lead. But the pitch caused the ball to bounce just as high as before and over the bar.
25-minutes in and Ethiopia were given another fantastic opportunity to take a shock lead in the match. Said was tripped by Chisamba Lungu in the box and the referee had no option but to award a penalty. Said stepped up but his placement was telegraphed and easily saved by Mweene.
Ten minutes before half-time Ethiopia were in trouble as Jemal Tassew tried to kung-fu clear a ball. But Lungu got their first and the keeper firmly caught Lungu in the mid-riff. Whether he knew it or not, Tassew was always going to get red carded for it. But the keeper rolled on the floor and ultimately got stretchered off whilst the red card was brandished. If that stoppage wasn't enough, officials then delayed play even more as some Ethiopian fans had thrown bottles and other items onto the field.
Once action had got back underway, Zambia looked to take immediate advantage of the man deficit. They did so just before half-time when a great passing move ended with Issac Chansa playing the ball in for Collins Mbesuma to chest down and score.
Again, Ethiopia's wish to play the ball from the back caused them problems in the second half as Zambia tried to score more goals. Zambia did miss chances to get a second and the were caught cold by the ten men. Said found himself in acres of space on the right and played the ball into Adane Grima who coolly finished in off the post to find that crowd lifting equaliser.
This opened the game right up but neither could find that killer blow to take all three points. Emmanuel Mayuka came on for a late spell and looked very energetic, but he also couldn't beat substitute keeper Zerihun Tadele. It's a result that Zambia will be slightly upset with and will be hoping for more next time around but Ethiopia will be celebrating their first match in the AFCoN since the 70s.
With Zambia only managing a draw, this gave Nigeria a huge opportunity to take control with victory over Burkina Faso. They looked to be grabbing the chance with both hands as Burkina Faso couldn't handle them to begin with. Ideye Aide Brown should have given Nigeria the lead, but his effort from a low cross from ten yards sailed over the bar.
The Nigerians' class finally broke the deadlock on 23-minutes when a classy Ideye flick with his heel found Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who neatly finished with the outside of his foot. Burkina Faso didn't really threaten much in the first apart from a number of free-kicks caused by cynical Nigerian fouls.
Burkina Faso created a few more chances in the second half and probably should have equalised but Vincent Enyeama was doing his very best to keep Nigeria in front. But Nigeria's ill-discipline would finally cost them as Efe Ambrose was shown a second yellow card with 16-minutes to play.
This didn't seem to deter Nigeria until the final minutes where Burkina Faso began to play better and look more attacking. Jonathan Pitroipa managed to find pull back which Nigeria couldn't intercept. It fell to the path of Alain Traore who managed to slot home to pick up a surprise point with the final kick of the match.
Zambia began the match looking the much better team and perhaps the brightest of the tournament so far. Ethiopia were struggling to resist the passing game run by Christopher Katongo and their bungled attempts of playing from the back only gave Zambia more impetus.
Despite this attacking intent, it was actually Ethiopia would claim the first corner and also have the clearest sight on goal. A long ball from the defence was completely missed by Stophira Sunzu which allowed Saladin Said in on goal. The hard, dry pitch caused the ball to bounce higher than normal and Said could only poke the ball over Kennedy Mweene. On any other pitch, the poke would have been enough to drop right into the net to give Ethiopia the lead. But the pitch caused the ball to bounce just as high as before and over the bar.
25-minutes in and Ethiopia were given another fantastic opportunity to take a shock lead in the match. Said was tripped by Chisamba Lungu in the box and the referee had no option but to award a penalty. Said stepped up but his placement was telegraphed and easily saved by Mweene.
Ten minutes before half-time Ethiopia were in trouble as Jemal Tassew tried to kung-fu clear a ball. But Lungu got their first and the keeper firmly caught Lungu in the mid-riff. Whether he knew it or not, Tassew was always going to get red carded for it. But the keeper rolled on the floor and ultimately got stretchered off whilst the red card was brandished. If that stoppage wasn't enough, officials then delayed play even more as some Ethiopian fans had thrown bottles and other items onto the field.
Once action had got back underway, Zambia looked to take immediate advantage of the man deficit. They did so just before half-time when a great passing move ended with Issac Chansa playing the ball in for Collins Mbesuma to chest down and score.
Again, Ethiopia's wish to play the ball from the back caused them problems in the second half as Zambia tried to score more goals. Zambia did miss chances to get a second and the were caught cold by the ten men. Said found himself in acres of space on the right and played the ball into Adane Grima who coolly finished in off the post to find that crowd lifting equaliser.
This opened the game right up but neither could find that killer blow to take all three points. Emmanuel Mayuka came on for a late spell and looked very energetic, but he also couldn't beat substitute keeper Zerihun Tadele. It's a result that Zambia will be slightly upset with and will be hoping for more next time around but Ethiopia will be celebrating their first match in the AFCoN since the 70s.
With Zambia only managing a draw, this gave Nigeria a huge opportunity to take control with victory over Burkina Faso. They looked to be grabbing the chance with both hands as Burkina Faso couldn't handle them to begin with. Ideye Aide Brown should have given Nigeria the lead, but his effort from a low cross from ten yards sailed over the bar.
The Nigerians' class finally broke the deadlock on 23-minutes when a classy Ideye flick with his heel found Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who neatly finished with the outside of his foot. Burkina Faso didn't really threaten much in the first apart from a number of free-kicks caused by cynical Nigerian fouls.
Burkina Faso created a few more chances in the second half and probably should have equalised but Vincent Enyeama was doing his very best to keep Nigeria in front. But Nigeria's ill-discipline would finally cost them as Efe Ambrose was shown a second yellow card with 16-minutes to play.
This didn't seem to deter Nigeria until the final minutes where Burkina Faso began to play better and look more attacking. Jonathan Pitroipa managed to find pull back which Nigeria couldn't intercept. It fell to the path of Alain Traore who managed to slot home to pick up a surprise point with the final kick of the match.
Sunday, 20 January 2013
Ghana Stunned As They Lose Two Goal Lead - Mali Take Control of Group
The goals came on the second day of the African Cup of Nations. The teams of Group B took to the stage for their opening matches and shared five goals between them. Group favourites Ghana faced DR Congo and looked like comfortable winners at 2-0, only to see DR Congo fight back to earn a dramatic point. Mali would then have to wait until late on to see off Niger and take the lead of the group.
The first half between Ghana and DR Congo was pretty balanced. The former Newcastle ace Lomana LuaLua would have the best chance early on but his shot was smartly tipped over the bar. That early chance provided momentum for DR Congo and they grew further into the game with Youssouf Mulumbu enjoying his key role.
As the half drew to a close, the ball began to camp in the midfield before Ghana started creating opportunities, Asamoah Gyan missing a shot where he probably should have scored. Ghana then managed to break the deadlock five minutes before half-time when 22-year old Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu from Udinese finished off a neat move that saw a one-two between Gyan and Kwadwo Asamoah.
The goal didn't seem to dampen DR Congo's spirits but it would be Ghana who struck first in the second period; Asamoah heading a corner in off the crossbar after just four minutes to make it 2-0. Ghana's two goal advantage only lasted four minutes as DR Congo again continued to battle well. Cedric Makiadi of Freiburg would find a great low cross for Mazembe's Tresor Mputu to stab home.
Mputu would almost equalise moments later, but his shot was blocked by John Pantsil. That was followed by Gyan missing another fabulous opportunity to open his account for the tournament. With just over 20-minutes to play, Makiadi would be fouled in the box by Jerry Akaminko giving DR Congo a penalty. Makiadi stepped up and converted it to draw the sides level. Both Mulumbu and Gyan had a late chance to win the game, but neither keeper would be beaten a third time.
With that game ending in a draw, Mali and Niger both had the chance to go top of the group and take control. Both teams looked quite content in the middle of the park and down the wings but neither could quite their crosses to an intended target. Kassaly Daouda was made to look fragile in the Niger goal as he made hard work of a few lofted balls.
When the ball was slow or along the floor, Daouda had no trouble. But his weakness in the air would be highlighted once again from a free-kick before the half was over. Mali looked to be in control throughout most of the match but they just couldn't find the killer blow to beat Daouda. The only goal of the game finally came six minutes from time when their main man, Seydou Keita pounced after Daouda once again failed to deal with a cross.
The first half between Ghana and DR Congo was pretty balanced. The former Newcastle ace Lomana LuaLua would have the best chance early on but his shot was smartly tipped over the bar. That early chance provided momentum for DR Congo and they grew further into the game with Youssouf Mulumbu enjoying his key role.
As the half drew to a close, the ball began to camp in the midfield before Ghana started creating opportunities, Asamoah Gyan missing a shot where he probably should have scored. Ghana then managed to break the deadlock five minutes before half-time when 22-year old Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu from Udinese finished off a neat move that saw a one-two between Gyan and Kwadwo Asamoah.
The goal didn't seem to dampen DR Congo's spirits but it would be Ghana who struck first in the second period; Asamoah heading a corner in off the crossbar after just four minutes to make it 2-0. Ghana's two goal advantage only lasted four minutes as DR Congo again continued to battle well. Cedric Makiadi of Freiburg would find a great low cross for Mazembe's Tresor Mputu to stab home.
Mputu would almost equalise moments later, but his shot was blocked by John Pantsil. That was followed by Gyan missing another fabulous opportunity to open his account for the tournament. With just over 20-minutes to play, Makiadi would be fouled in the box by Jerry Akaminko giving DR Congo a penalty. Makiadi stepped up and converted it to draw the sides level. Both Mulumbu and Gyan had a late chance to win the game, but neither keeper would be beaten a third time.
With that game ending in a draw, Mali and Niger both had the chance to go top of the group and take control. Both teams looked quite content in the middle of the park and down the wings but neither could quite their crosses to an intended target. Kassaly Daouda was made to look fragile in the Niger goal as he made hard work of a few lofted balls.
When the ball was slow or along the floor, Daouda had no trouble. But his weakness in the air would be highlighted once again from a free-kick before the half was over. Mali looked to be in control throughout most of the match but they just couldn't find the killer blow to beat Daouda. The only goal of the game finally came six minutes from time when their main man, Seydou Keita pounced after Daouda once again failed to deal with a cross.
Saturday, 19 January 2013
No Goals To Start African Cup of Nations
The 2013 African Cup of Nations didn't really get going on opening night. The two games produced no goals as the nerves looked to get the better of Group A. The hosts South Africa faced Cape Verde as Angola went on to face Morocco.
The unknown package of Cape Verde had a rather good showing in the first half against South Africa. They had the best chance in the half when Platini was played through, but unlike his UEFA namesake, the striker scuffed his shot wide of the mark. Apart from that, neither team could grab the game by the scruff of the neck and this left the South African crowd very flat.
The changes during the second half made South Africa a little more attacking and arguably the better team as Cape Verde looked to tire. The only problem was South Africa quickly ran out of ideas when their long ball technique failed. As for Cape Verde, they also couldn't find a killer pass in the final third and would be quick to surrender to possession in the midfield. The fans looked more interested in their continuous Mexican wave rather than the underwhelming action on the pitch.
After the first 0-0, this should have given both Angola and Morocco the impetus to take control of the group. Morocco were the better team in the first half without really putting the keeper under any pressure. Oussama Assaidi looked the brightest and continued to find space down the wing. Manucho was Angola's only real attacking option on the pitch but he didn't a shot in anger until the final minute of the half due to the poor service.
Angola were much improved in the second period but Morocco still looked the more threatening. The biggest problem Morocco faced was their own discipline, they continuously fouled throughout the game. This allowed Angola to continue to try and find Manucho with hopeful punts forward.
It could be argued that Morocco missed that spark that perhaps Adel Taarabt would have brought to the table on his day. Angola came on stronger in the final minutes with Manucho having two glorious chances to score, but failed with both of them.
Unfortunately, based on these performances, it wouldn't appear that the overall winner will emerge from this group unless a massive improvement is made. But things will improve and the African Cup of Nations will spark into life.
The unknown package of Cape Verde had a rather good showing in the first half against South Africa. They had the best chance in the half when Platini was played through, but unlike his UEFA namesake, the striker scuffed his shot wide of the mark. Apart from that, neither team could grab the game by the scruff of the neck and this left the South African crowd very flat.
The changes during the second half made South Africa a little more attacking and arguably the better team as Cape Verde looked to tire. The only problem was South Africa quickly ran out of ideas when their long ball technique failed. As for Cape Verde, they also couldn't find a killer pass in the final third and would be quick to surrender to possession in the midfield. The fans looked more interested in their continuous Mexican wave rather than the underwhelming action on the pitch.
After the first 0-0, this should have given both Angola and Morocco the impetus to take control of the group. Morocco were the better team in the first half without really putting the keeper under any pressure. Oussama Assaidi looked the brightest and continued to find space down the wing. Manucho was Angola's only real attacking option on the pitch but he didn't a shot in anger until the final minute of the half due to the poor service.
Angola were much improved in the second period but Morocco still looked the more threatening. The biggest problem Morocco faced was their own discipline, they continuously fouled throughout the game. This allowed Angola to continue to try and find Manucho with hopeful punts forward.
It could be argued that Morocco missed that spark that perhaps Adel Taarabt would have brought to the table on his day. Angola came on stronger in the final minutes with Manucho having two glorious chances to score, but failed with both of them.
Unfortunately, based on these performances, it wouldn't appear that the overall winner will emerge from this group unless a massive improvement is made. But things will improve and the African Cup of Nations will spark into life.
2013 African Cup of Nations Preview
The 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa kicks off later today and here's a round-up of the groups and teams participating:
Group A: The hosts sit in a rather tough group where only two of three candidates will make it through. South Africa are likely to progress but only have two English football representatives. Kagisho Dikgacoi from Crystal Palace and Oldham's Dean Furman. Perhaps the surprise omission is Steven Pienaar. The Kaizer Chiefs boast a strong representation, full of players to watch: Itumeleng Khune is a very capable goalkeeper with defenders Siboniso Gaxa and Tsepo Masilela the most experienced defenders in the squad. Siphiwe Tshabalala scored that World Cup goal against Mexico and is their most capped player with Reneilwe Letsholonyane providing a service on the other wing for strikers Bernard Parker and Orlando Pirates' Katlego Mphela.
Angola and Morocco are likely to be fighting for a spot alongside South Africa in the next round. Angola's most notable player is former Manchester United striker Manucho, who had a very good tournament last year. Only eight players from the squad play outside of Angola so it's hard to know how good they'll be. Marco Airosa, Zuela, Dede and Gilberto do play in Cyprus. Angola missed out on the knock-out phase last year on goal difference, so will be looking to get through this time.
Morocco were underwhelming last year, finishing third in their group. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Marouane Chamakh and Adel Taarabt both miss out on a place in the squad but Aston Villa's Karim El Ahmadi and Liverpool's Oussama Assaidi will feature. Galatasaray's Nordin Amrabat will be looking to provide the biggest goal threat.
It's the first time Cape Verde have qualified for the African Cup of Nations. But they already boast the biggest shock of the tournament, preventing Cameroon from qualifying. Despite this, only two members of their squad actually play in their native country. As Cape Verde speak Portuguese, it's no surprise to see that the majority of squad play in Portugal. Ryan Mendes may be the player to watch as he plies his trade for Lille.
Group B: Ghana should be pretty comfortable in group B with only Mali looking to provide any real threat. They were in the same group last year and both managed to progress before Mali managed to beat them in the third/fourth place play-off. Only Bristol City's Albert Adomah represent's Ghana from English football. But it will be a chance to once again watch former Premier League players, John Pantsil and Asamoah Gyan. Juventus' Kwadwo Asamoah will also be a good watch. As for an unknown, how about Solomon Asante from the interestingly named Berekum Chelsea.
Mali have three Premier League players in their squad; Mahamadou Diarra from Fulham, Samba Diakite from QPR and Modibo Maiga from West Ham with Tongo Doumbia coming from Wolves. The majority of the squad come from France with Lens' Samba Sow and former Premier League star, Mohamed Sissoko being the most appetising. Former Barcelona player, Seydou Keita, will also be a joy to watch.
Niger qualified for the first time in their history last year and will be looking to at least get a point this time around. Only three members of their squad play outside of Africa; Ismael Alassane for Al Sahel of Kuwait, William N'Gounou of Sweden's Limhamn and 19-year old Amadou Moutari of Le Mans B team.With only three players above the age of 30, this team is very youthful and inexperienced which could make them minnows or be a scouting dream.
DR Congo are two times winners of the ACN but haven't qualified since 2006. West Brom's Youssouf Mulumbu headlines the squad with Crystal Palace's Yannick Bolasie providing great back-up. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the squad do play in DR Congo and again only three players are older than 30. Toko Nzuzi will be an interesting watch. The 22-year old plays for Switzerland's Grasshopper Zurich but his eligibility has been questioned after already playing a full international for the Congo national team before deciding to play for DR Congo.
Group C: Reigning champions, Zambia, should progress through this group. After last year's success, Emmanuel Mayuka managed to get a transfer to Southampton, although it hasn't been a great start to Premiership life. Stophira Sunzu is assigned to Reading but, like Mayuka, hasn't really featured this season. Christopher Katongo was also vital for Zambia last year and has since managed to get a move to China. The interesting statistic surrounds Porto's Emmanuel Mbola. At just 19-years old, Mbola has already represented Zambia a staggering 32-times. A player to watch will be defender Nathan Sinkala who is only 21 and currently plays for Mazembe in DR Congo.
Nigeria surprisingly didn't qualify for last year's tournament but should be pretty strong this year. Chelsea's John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses are the Premier League's only representatives with Efe Ambrose of Celtic also in the squad. Former Everton star Joseph Yobo will also be gracing the television screens once again. Keep an eye on Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who should be amongst the goals and their goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama who has actually scored for Nigeria.
Burkina Faso will hoping for a better showing than their pointless showing last year. Their three notable players are defender Bakary Kone of Lyon, midfielder Charles Kabore of Marseille and striker Alain Traore of Auxerre. Despite only having two players older than 30, it is quite an old squad as Germain Sanou is their youngest player at 20 but is their third choice keeper so may not get a look in. Soumaila Belem is the second youngest member at 21, he plays in defence for Ivory Coast's Africa Sports.
Ethiopia haven't played in an ACN tournament since 1982 and will very much be the minnows in the group. Only three of their players play football outside of Ethiopia so they are very much the unknown package. Midfielder Yussuf Saleh plays for Sweden's Syrianska, while strikers Saladin Said and Fuad Ibrahim play for Egypt's Wadi Degla and USA's Minnesota Stars respectively. With four of their five strikers under the age of 25, the stage could be set for one of them to shine and gain a big money move.
Group D: The tournament favourites, Ivory Coast, are arguably in the group of death but shouldn't really have any problems if they play to their fullest. Their team boasts the most stars with Kolo and Yaya Toure, Abdul Razak, Cheick Tiote, Gervinho and Arouna Kone all coming from the Premier League. But there are also plenty of former English league representatives, Emmanuel Eboue (formerly of Arsenal), Sol Bamba (formerly of Leicester), Didier Zokora (formerly of Tottenham), Max Gradel (formerly of Leeds) and of course Didier Drogba making this team the strongest.
From there it should be one team from the remaining three as all have a chance of qualifying. The 2004 champions, Tunisia, made it to the quarter finals last year. The majority of their squad do play in Tunisia but strikers Zouheir Dhaouadi and Saber Khelifa, midfielder Wahbi Khazri and defender Aymen Abdennour do play in France. 22-year old Youssef Msakni looked very good last year and currently plays for Qatar's Lekhwiya.
Algeria may be the slight favourites to join Ivory Coast. Only Adlene Guedioura for Nottingham Forest plays his football in England. Former Millwall player Hamuer Bouazza, Sofiane Feghouli, Medhi Lacen and Liassane Cadamuro-Bentaiba play in Spain while Carl Medjani, Foued Kadir, Ryad Boudebouz and Mehdi Mostefa play in France. Perhaps the player to watch may be defender Djamel Mesbah who plays for AC Milan.
Togo haven't qualified since 2006 after being hit by that rebel attack in 2010. That attack did see Emmanuel Adebayor announce his retirement from international football, but he has undone that by choosing to participate this year. Adebayor is joined by Wolves' Abdoul-Razak Boukari from the English ranks. Former Aston Villa player Moustapha Salifou has also been called up. The majority of the squad do play in France and there are a number of 21-22 year olds. Dove Wome of South Africa's Free State Stars and Prince Segbefia of Auxerre may be worth watching in the midfield.
Group A: The hosts sit in a rather tough group where only two of three candidates will make it through. South Africa are likely to progress but only have two English football representatives. Kagisho Dikgacoi from Crystal Palace and Oldham's Dean Furman. Perhaps the surprise omission is Steven Pienaar. The Kaizer Chiefs boast a strong representation, full of players to watch: Itumeleng Khune is a very capable goalkeeper with defenders Siboniso Gaxa and Tsepo Masilela the most experienced defenders in the squad. Siphiwe Tshabalala scored that World Cup goal against Mexico and is their most capped player with Reneilwe Letsholonyane providing a service on the other wing for strikers Bernard Parker and Orlando Pirates' Katlego Mphela.
Angola and Morocco are likely to be fighting for a spot alongside South Africa in the next round. Angola's most notable player is former Manchester United striker Manucho, who had a very good tournament last year. Only eight players from the squad play outside of Angola so it's hard to know how good they'll be. Marco Airosa, Zuela, Dede and Gilberto do play in Cyprus. Angola missed out on the knock-out phase last year on goal difference, so will be looking to get through this time.
Morocco were underwhelming last year, finishing third in their group. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Marouane Chamakh and Adel Taarabt both miss out on a place in the squad but Aston Villa's Karim El Ahmadi and Liverpool's Oussama Assaidi will feature. Galatasaray's Nordin Amrabat will be looking to provide the biggest goal threat.
It's the first time Cape Verde have qualified for the African Cup of Nations. But they already boast the biggest shock of the tournament, preventing Cameroon from qualifying. Despite this, only two members of their squad actually play in their native country. As Cape Verde speak Portuguese, it's no surprise to see that the majority of squad play in Portugal. Ryan Mendes may be the player to watch as he plies his trade for Lille.
Group B: Ghana should be pretty comfortable in group B with only Mali looking to provide any real threat. They were in the same group last year and both managed to progress before Mali managed to beat them in the third/fourth place play-off. Only Bristol City's Albert Adomah represent's Ghana from English football. But it will be a chance to once again watch former Premier League players, John Pantsil and Asamoah Gyan. Juventus' Kwadwo Asamoah will also be a good watch. As for an unknown, how about Solomon Asante from the interestingly named Berekum Chelsea.
Mali have three Premier League players in their squad; Mahamadou Diarra from Fulham, Samba Diakite from QPR and Modibo Maiga from West Ham with Tongo Doumbia coming from Wolves. The majority of the squad come from France with Lens' Samba Sow and former Premier League star, Mohamed Sissoko being the most appetising. Former Barcelona player, Seydou Keita, will also be a joy to watch.
Niger qualified for the first time in their history last year and will be looking to at least get a point this time around. Only three members of their squad play outside of Africa; Ismael Alassane for Al Sahel of Kuwait, William N'Gounou of Sweden's Limhamn and 19-year old Amadou Moutari of Le Mans B team.With only three players above the age of 30, this team is very youthful and inexperienced which could make them minnows or be a scouting dream.
DR Congo are two times winners of the ACN but haven't qualified since 2006. West Brom's Youssouf Mulumbu headlines the squad with Crystal Palace's Yannick Bolasie providing great back-up. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the squad do play in DR Congo and again only three players are older than 30. Toko Nzuzi will be an interesting watch. The 22-year old plays for Switzerland's Grasshopper Zurich but his eligibility has been questioned after already playing a full international for the Congo national team before deciding to play for DR Congo.
Group C: Reigning champions, Zambia, should progress through this group. After last year's success, Emmanuel Mayuka managed to get a transfer to Southampton, although it hasn't been a great start to Premiership life. Stophira Sunzu is assigned to Reading but, like Mayuka, hasn't really featured this season. Christopher Katongo was also vital for Zambia last year and has since managed to get a move to China. The interesting statistic surrounds Porto's Emmanuel Mbola. At just 19-years old, Mbola has already represented Zambia a staggering 32-times. A player to watch will be defender Nathan Sinkala who is only 21 and currently plays for Mazembe in DR Congo.
Nigeria surprisingly didn't qualify for last year's tournament but should be pretty strong this year. Chelsea's John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses are the Premier League's only representatives with Efe Ambrose of Celtic also in the squad. Former Everton star Joseph Yobo will also be gracing the television screens once again. Keep an eye on Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who should be amongst the goals and their goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama who has actually scored for Nigeria.
Burkina Faso will hoping for a better showing than their pointless showing last year. Their three notable players are defender Bakary Kone of Lyon, midfielder Charles Kabore of Marseille and striker Alain Traore of Auxerre. Despite only having two players older than 30, it is quite an old squad as Germain Sanou is their youngest player at 20 but is their third choice keeper so may not get a look in. Soumaila Belem is the second youngest member at 21, he plays in defence for Ivory Coast's Africa Sports.
Ethiopia haven't played in an ACN tournament since 1982 and will very much be the minnows in the group. Only three of their players play football outside of Ethiopia so they are very much the unknown package. Midfielder Yussuf Saleh plays for Sweden's Syrianska, while strikers Saladin Said and Fuad Ibrahim play for Egypt's Wadi Degla and USA's Minnesota Stars respectively. With four of their five strikers under the age of 25, the stage could be set for one of them to shine and gain a big money move.
Group D: The tournament favourites, Ivory Coast, are arguably in the group of death but shouldn't really have any problems if they play to their fullest. Their team boasts the most stars with Kolo and Yaya Toure, Abdul Razak, Cheick Tiote, Gervinho and Arouna Kone all coming from the Premier League. But there are also plenty of former English league representatives, Emmanuel Eboue (formerly of Arsenal), Sol Bamba (formerly of Leicester), Didier Zokora (formerly of Tottenham), Max Gradel (formerly of Leeds) and of course Didier Drogba making this team the strongest.
From there it should be one team from the remaining three as all have a chance of qualifying. The 2004 champions, Tunisia, made it to the quarter finals last year. The majority of their squad do play in Tunisia but strikers Zouheir Dhaouadi and Saber Khelifa, midfielder Wahbi Khazri and defender Aymen Abdennour do play in France. 22-year old Youssef Msakni looked very good last year and currently plays for Qatar's Lekhwiya.
Algeria may be the slight favourites to join Ivory Coast. Only Adlene Guedioura for Nottingham Forest plays his football in England. Former Millwall player Hamuer Bouazza, Sofiane Feghouli, Medhi Lacen and Liassane Cadamuro-Bentaiba play in Spain while Carl Medjani, Foued Kadir, Ryad Boudebouz and Mehdi Mostefa play in France. Perhaps the player to watch may be defender Djamel Mesbah who plays for AC Milan.
Togo haven't qualified since 2006 after being hit by that rebel attack in 2010. That attack did see Emmanuel Adebayor announce his retirement from international football, but he has undone that by choosing to participate this year. Adebayor is joined by Wolves' Abdoul-Razak Boukari from the English ranks. Former Aston Villa player Moustapha Salifou has also been called up. The majority of the squad do play in France and there are a number of 21-22 year olds. Dove Wome of South Africa's Free State Stars and Prince Segbefia of Auxerre may be worth watching in the midfield.
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
FA Cup Third Round Replays While Saints Hold Chelsea in the Prem
Chelsea 2-2 Southampton: Southampton now move three points clear of the drop zone after coming from behind to get a point against Chelsea. Demba Ba put Chelsea ahead with his first Premiership goal, third in 11-days for Chelsea, after 25-minutes. Eden Hazard made it 2-0 just before half-time to look like Chelsea were cruising to victory. But Rickie Lambert would pull a goal back 13-minutes into the second half before Jason Puncheon scored the equaliser 15-minutes from time. Chelsea are still 13-points behind Manchester United at the top.
Manchester United 1-0 West Ham: Rooney's ninth minute goal was enough to set up a fourth round tie against Fulham at home. Rooney went onto miss a penalty on his comeback from injury.
Arsenal 1-0 Swansea: Jack Wilshere's goal four minutes from time finally broke the Swansea resistance. The Gunners will now travel to Brighton.
Birmingham City 1-2 Leeds United: An El-Hadji Diouf penalty (76') puts Leeds into the fourth round where they will host Tottenham. Wade Elliott (36') had put Birmingham ahead before Ross McCormack (70') equalised.
AFC Bournemouth 0-1 Wigan Athletic: Mauro Boselli (18') places the Premier League side into the fourth round where they will travel to Macclesfield.
Brentford 2-1 Southend United: Brentford get the opportunity to host Chelsea in the next round. Paul Hayes (26') had given Brentford the lead before Barry Corr (69') equalised. Clayton Donaldson (76') scored the winner to ensure Brentford progress.
Leyton Orient 1-2 Hull City AET: The Championship side needed extra time to squeeze into the next round, setting up a home tie against Barnsley. Nick Proschwitz (14') before Dean Cox equalised three minutes before the end. Tom Cairney prevented penalties with the winner three minutes before the end of extra time.
Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 Sheffield Wednesday: A Shaun Williams penalty (28') and Dean Bowditch (75') takes the League One side through to face QPR at Loftus Road.
Stoke City 4-1 Crystal Palace AET: The Premiership side required extra time to see of their Championship counterparts. Kenwyne Jones (69') gave the hosts the lead before a Glenn Murray equalised with a penalty three minutes from time. A brace from Jon Walters (95' & 110') gave Stoke the lead once again with Cameron Jerome (120') completing the victory. Stoke will now host Manchester City.
Sunderland 0-2 Bolton Wanderers: A Marvin Sordell double (64' pen & 73') gave the Championship side the victory over their Premiership rivals. Bolton will now host another Premiership side, Everton, in the fourth round.
Blackpool 1-2 Fulham AET: Fulham also required extra time to see off the Championship side. Nathan Delfouneso thought he had given Blackpool the victory eight minutes from time. But Kieron Richardson levelled in the fourth minute of extra time before Brede Hangeland won the match four minutes from the end. Fulham will now travel to Old Trafford.
West Brom 0-1 Queens Park Rangers: Jay Bothroyd (75') takes the Premier League's bottom club into the fourth round where they will host MK Dons.
Manchester United 1-0 West Ham: Rooney's ninth minute goal was enough to set up a fourth round tie against Fulham at home. Rooney went onto miss a penalty on his comeback from injury.
Arsenal 1-0 Swansea: Jack Wilshere's goal four minutes from time finally broke the Swansea resistance. The Gunners will now travel to Brighton.
Birmingham City 1-2 Leeds United: An El-Hadji Diouf penalty (76') puts Leeds into the fourth round where they will host Tottenham. Wade Elliott (36') had put Birmingham ahead before Ross McCormack (70') equalised.
AFC Bournemouth 0-1 Wigan Athletic: Mauro Boselli (18') places the Premier League side into the fourth round where they will travel to Macclesfield.
Brentford 2-1 Southend United: Brentford get the opportunity to host Chelsea in the next round. Paul Hayes (26') had given Brentford the lead before Barry Corr (69') equalised. Clayton Donaldson (76') scored the winner to ensure Brentford progress.
Leyton Orient 1-2 Hull City AET: The Championship side needed extra time to squeeze into the next round, setting up a home tie against Barnsley. Nick Proschwitz (14') before Dean Cox equalised three minutes before the end. Tom Cairney prevented penalties with the winner three minutes before the end of extra time.
Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 Sheffield Wednesday: A Shaun Williams penalty (28') and Dean Bowditch (75') takes the League One side through to face QPR at Loftus Road.
Stoke City 4-1 Crystal Palace AET: The Premiership side required extra time to see of their Championship counterparts. Kenwyne Jones (69') gave the hosts the lead before a Glenn Murray equalised with a penalty three minutes from time. A brace from Jon Walters (95' & 110') gave Stoke the lead once again with Cameron Jerome (120') completing the victory. Stoke will now host Manchester City.
Sunderland 0-2 Bolton Wanderers: A Marvin Sordell double (64' pen & 73') gave the Championship side the victory over their Premiership rivals. Bolton will now host another Premiership side, Everton, in the fourth round.
Blackpool 1-2 Fulham AET: Fulham also required extra time to see off the Championship side. Nathan Delfouneso thought he had given Blackpool the victory eight minutes from time. But Kieron Richardson levelled in the fourth minute of extra time before Brede Hangeland won the match four minutes from the end. Fulham will now travel to Old Trafford.
West Brom 0-1 Queens Park Rangers: Jay Bothroyd (75') takes the Premier League's bottom club into the fourth round where they will host MK Dons.
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