Guadalajara's soccer golden boy Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez was one of the bright lights of Mexico's World Cup campaign. At the time of writing he has 65% of the vote for being Mexico's best player in South Africa on this blog.
Although he only started one game out of four, the 22-year-old scored two goals and has excited the English press and media on the eve of his big move to Manchester United.
“It’s been unanimous praise, people are starting to think United have a real player on their hands," says manutd.com Contributing Editor Steve Bartram. "They were raving about the goal (against France). He was calm when he went through, showed neat touch and intelligence in the run.”
The feeling is that Chicharito’s excellent forward runs will benefit greatly from having players like Scholes, Giggs, Carrick and Rooney to supply the young Mexican with all the ammunition he needs to get goals.
However, the Mexican press has been full of reports linking the 22-year-old former Guadalajara Chivas player with a loan move away from Old Trafford due to the plethora of young strikers at the Manchester club. Today's front-page headline in Record states Valencia are hot on Chicharito's heels.
“I would personally be amazed,” says the journalist who was writing a blog on the English team’s website about Chicharito and the Mexican national team. “Especially with how he’s played for Mexico.”
“It’s not how United do things,” adds Bartram. “Even if he comes to United as an impact substitute, it’s what United need.”
Bartram also says new young players at Manchester United are always given a chance in the first team to impress manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
“I fully expect him to be here next season,” says Bartram firmly.
The Manchester United reporter adds that the British press is mystified Chicharito wasn’t starting games for Mexico.
Says Bartram: “Obviously Franco has been fairly ineffectual, the team selection against Uruguay seemed strange.”
The newspapers and television pundits in Britain heaped praise on Chicharito’s goal against France and are excited about the impact the Tapatio could have in Manchester.
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
Aguirre resigns, Bielsa / De la Torre to take his place?
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre has officially resigned from his post as Mexico boss in a press conference in Mexico City today.
"I was responsible for the elimination and it's a very responsible decision to leave the post," said Aguirre. "I hope that the person that comes in can carry the process forward until Brazil."
"I have a lot of faults as a coach and as a person but I always had in mind the well-being of Mexico. It manifested itself in many ways but the only concrete truth is that I put the interests of the national team above my own."
Although heavily criticised during the World Cup for his out-of-the-ordinary selection choices in the games against Uruguay and Argentina, one newspaper poll suggests over 60 percent of Mexicans wanted Aguirre to carry on.
Two names have cropped up in all todays daily Mexican newspapers regarding Aguirre's replacement: José Manuel "Chepo" de la Torre of Toluca and Marcelo "El Loco" Bielsa who looks likely leave Chile's national team.
De la Torre, 49, may be young for a national team manager but he's had a meteoric rise as a manager and was a successful player in the Mexican league. De la Torre also seems to be popular within the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), not least because his brother is the general director of the national team.
The Guadalajara man has won three titles in the past four years in Mexico and it seems unlikely that current club Toluca would stand in his way if the FMF came calling. A young and fresh coach might be exactly what the new generation of Mexican players require as they try to break the vpodoo of exiting the World Cup in the round of 16.
However, it's been reported in Chile that a pre-contract agreement exists to bring Argentine Bielsa to Mexico for 10 million dollars a year.
Aguirre's future is unknown. There is a report that he may manage Bolton Wanderers in the Mexican press, but that seems unlikely. More probable is that he'll take his time and take over a Spanish club, although his dream is to manage a team in the English Premier League.
"I was responsible for the elimination and it's a very responsible decision to leave the post," said Aguirre. "I hope that the person that comes in can carry the process forward until Brazil."
"I have a lot of faults as a coach and as a person but I always had in mind the well-being of Mexico. It manifested itself in many ways but the only concrete truth is that I put the interests of the national team above my own."
Although heavily criticised during the World Cup for his out-of-the-ordinary selection choices in the games against Uruguay and Argentina, one newspaper poll suggests over 60 percent of Mexicans wanted Aguirre to carry on.
Two names have cropped up in all todays daily Mexican newspapers regarding Aguirre's replacement: José Manuel "Chepo" de la Torre of Toluca and Marcelo "El Loco" Bielsa who looks likely leave Chile's national team.
De la Torre, 49, may be young for a national team manager but he's had a meteoric rise as a manager and was a successful player in the Mexican league. De la Torre also seems to be popular within the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), not least because his brother is the general director of the national team.
The Guadalajara man has won three titles in the past four years in Mexico and it seems unlikely that current club Toluca would stand in his way if the FMF came calling. A young and fresh coach might be exactly what the new generation of Mexican players require as they try to break the vpodoo of exiting the World Cup in the round of 16.
However, it's been reported in Chile that a pre-contract agreement exists to bring Argentine Bielsa to Mexico for 10 million dollars a year.
Aguirre's future is unknown. There is a report that he may manage Bolton Wanderers in the Mexican press, but that seems unlikely. More probable is that he'll take his time and take over a Spanish club, although his dream is to manage a team in the English Premier League.
Monday, 28 June 2010
Media roundup: the morning after the night before
Mexico's media was split the morning after the 2-1 defeat against Argentina.
Pundits slammed the referee, Ricardo Osorio's costly error and Javier Aguirre for again changing a system that had worked so well against France.
"The referees' errors are a scandal," reads the front page of Record. "Do something!" is the page three headline of the same newspaper. Page four's article continues in disgust, under the headline "A very dirty game," referring to FIFA's decision to flatly refuse to consider technology in the wake of the England "goal" and the clearly offside position of Carlos Tevez. How can FIFA bang on about Fair Play if they can't come clean and admit mistakes themselves, is the general consensus.
The front page of Cancha reads "The theft, the error, the great goal ... and adios," in reference to, well, Argentina's lucky goal, Osorio's error and Tevez's golazo.
Mexican newspapers generally believe that Argentina's first goal changed the whole outlook of the game and Mexico's players "got hot-headed" in the immediate aftermath.
That the referee and linesman could look up at the big screen in the stadium and clearly see their error only rubs salt into the wounds.
Javier Aguirre should take his share of the blame too, at least according to El Tren.
"A deception called Javier Aguirre," read one of their headlines. Former manager Ricardo La Volpe writes in Cancha that Aguirre was right to start with Chicharito, "but the Bofo thing is incredible."
"If el Tri had been good going forward in previous games (except against Uruguay) using a 4-3-3, it difficult to understand why he again chose to play a man off the striker again yesterday," writes La Volpe.
La Volpe also points out that Mexico probably lost a quarter-final spot due to their poor showing against Uruguay in the last group game and their failure to top their group.
Most people simply wanted Aguirre to do what should've been the obvious thing and play Barrera in place of Carlos Vela, thus retaining the 4-3-3 formation.
There is a positive side to Mexico's performance though, summed up by the headline "Adios old Tri, Hola new Tri," in Record. Reads the subtitle: "Yes, it hurts a lot, but Mexico has a new generation on the move, that already know how to play, score and win in a World Cup. The defeat closes the era of el Tri that could never make that fifth game."
As the post below says, many of Mexico's young players did themselves proud. Chicharito was perhaps the star of the show for Mexico and they look to have found a striker who could potentially become Mexico's all time record scorer in World Cups. He's already joint third with two goals.
Hector Moreno, Efrain Juarez, Andres Guardado, Giovani Dos Santos and Pablo Barrera could all hold their heads up high. Add to them Jonathan Dos Santos (presuming he will continue to play for Mexico), Guillermo Ochoa and Carlos Vela and Mexico already have a good number of players with experience that will make up the 2014 team.
How many other nations can genuinely say the same? England certainly can't.
Pundits slammed the referee, Ricardo Osorio's costly error and Javier Aguirre for again changing a system that had worked so well against France.
"The referees' errors are a scandal," reads the front page of Record. "Do something!" is the page three headline of the same newspaper. Page four's article continues in disgust, under the headline "A very dirty game," referring to FIFA's decision to flatly refuse to consider technology in the wake of the England "goal" and the clearly offside position of Carlos Tevez. How can FIFA bang on about Fair Play if they can't come clean and admit mistakes themselves, is the general consensus.
The front page of Cancha reads "The theft, the error, the great goal ... and adios," in reference to, well, Argentina's lucky goal, Osorio's error and Tevez's golazo.
Mexican newspapers generally believe that Argentina's first goal changed the whole outlook of the game and Mexico's players "got hot-headed" in the immediate aftermath.
That the referee and linesman could look up at the big screen in the stadium and clearly see their error only rubs salt into the wounds.
Javier Aguirre should take his share of the blame too, at least according to El Tren.
"A deception called Javier Aguirre," read one of their headlines. Former manager Ricardo La Volpe writes in Cancha that Aguirre was right to start with Chicharito, "but the Bofo thing is incredible."
"If el Tri had been good going forward in previous games (except against Uruguay) using a 4-3-3, it difficult to understand why he again chose to play a man off the striker again yesterday," writes La Volpe.
La Volpe also points out that Mexico probably lost a quarter-final spot due to their poor showing against Uruguay in the last group game and their failure to top their group.
Most people simply wanted Aguirre to do what should've been the obvious thing and play Barrera in place of Carlos Vela, thus retaining the 4-3-3 formation.
There is a positive side to Mexico's performance though, summed up by the headline "Adios old Tri, Hola new Tri," in Record. Reads the subtitle: "Yes, it hurts a lot, but Mexico has a new generation on the move, that already know how to play, score and win in a World Cup. The defeat closes the era of el Tri that could never make that fifth game."
As the post below says, many of Mexico's young players did themselves proud. Chicharito was perhaps the star of the show for Mexico and they look to have found a striker who could potentially become Mexico's all time record scorer in World Cups. He's already joint third with two goals.
Hector Moreno, Efrain Juarez, Andres Guardado, Giovani Dos Santos and Pablo Barrera could all hold their heads up high. Add to them Jonathan Dos Santos (presuming he will continue to play for Mexico), Guillermo Ochoa and Carlos Vela and Mexico already have a good number of players with experience that will make up the 2014 team.
How many other nations can genuinely say the same? England certainly can't.
How the ref might have seen Argentina's first goal
There's an email doing the rounds in Mexico giving two alternative theories of how the referee and linesman saw Carlos Tevez' clearly offside first goal.
Sunday, 27 June 2010
Mexico fail to conquer demons, no thanks to the ref
The word that kept coming from Meixcan commentators in the last 10 minutes of Argentina v Mexico was "dignity."
It counts for little though as Mexico crashed out of the World Cup.
Argentina's first goal was clearly offside. That much is more than obvious.
Coming into the game Mexico needed to play to the best of their ability AND get a little luck along the way. They didn't have it.
How the officials didn't see that Carlos Tevez was a long way offside when he nodded in Argentina's first goal will become part of World Cup bloopers in years to come.
Where on earth were the officials looking, if they weren't looking at the game?
If England could feel a hard done by, Mexico could only feel more injustice. The team won many plaudits for bringing the game to Argentina and if it wasn't for the first goal, the story might have been different.
As it is, Argentina go through. The Maradona bandwagon rolls on. But, a final word about Mexico.
With the right manager, it's no exaggeration to say Mexico can be genuine contenders in 2014. Why not? Ochoa, Moreno, Juarez, Guardado, Giovani, Chicharito, Vela, Barrera. The future of el Tri looks good. Gracias Rafa, Carlos (Salcido), Cuau, Conejo, there's another generation chomping at the bit.
It counts for little though as Mexico crashed out of the World Cup.
Argentina's first goal was clearly offside. That much is more than obvious.
Coming into the game Mexico needed to play to the best of their ability AND get a little luck along the way. They didn't have it.
How the officials didn't see that Carlos Tevez was a long way offside when he nodded in Argentina's first goal will become part of World Cup bloopers in years to come.
Where on earth were the officials looking, if they weren't looking at the game?
If England could feel a hard done by, Mexico could only feel more injustice. The team won many plaudits for bringing the game to Argentina and if it wasn't for the first goal, the story might have been different.
As it is, Argentina go through. The Maradona bandwagon rolls on. But, a final word about Mexico.
With the right manager, it's no exaggeration to say Mexico can be genuine contenders in 2014. Why not? Ochoa, Moreno, Juarez, Guardado, Giovani, Chicharito, Vela, Barrera. The future of el Tri looks good. Gracias Rafa, Carlos (Salcido), Cuau, Conejo, there's another generation chomping at the bit.
Bofo, Chicharito and Guardado surprise starters
It appears Mexico coach Javier Aguirre has caved into the media pressure and will start the game against Argentina with Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez and Andres Guardado.
The biggest surprise came with the news Guadalajara Chivas forward Adolfo 'Bofo' Bautista will also start.
Bofo was poor in warm up games and was even booed in the farewell game in the Estadio Azteca against Chile.
Chivas owner Jorge Vergara this week called for his inclusion but at the time it seemed unlikely at best.
Bofo is a flair player that will be looking to open up Argentina's shaky defense. Not the quickest player, he has played exceptionally well in the past against Argentine opposition in the Copa Libertadores.
Aguirre, as usual, has sprung a major surprise.
Mexican pundits have called for the inclusion of Guardado and Chicharito since the Uruguay game.
Line-up in full: Óscar Pérez, Rafael Márquez, Ricardo Osorio, Francisco Javier Rodríguez, Carlos Salcido, Efraín Juárez, Gerardo Torrado, Andrés Guardado, Adolfo Bautista, Giovani dos Santos, Javier Hernández.
The biggest surprise came with the news Guadalajara Chivas forward Adolfo 'Bofo' Bautista will also start.
Bofo was poor in warm up games and was even booed in the farewell game in the Estadio Azteca against Chile.
Chivas owner Jorge Vergara this week called for his inclusion but at the time it seemed unlikely at best.
Bofo is a flair player that will be looking to open up Argentina's shaky defense. Not the quickest player, he has played exceptionally well in the past against Argentine opposition in the Copa Libertadores.
Aguirre, as usual, has sprung a major surprise.
Mexican pundits have called for the inclusion of Guardado and Chicharito since the Uruguay game.
Line-up in full: Óscar Pérez, Rafael Márquez, Ricardo Osorio, Francisco Javier Rodríguez, Carlos Salcido, Efraín Juárez, Gerardo Torrado, Andrés Guardado, Adolfo Bautista, Giovani dos Santos, Javier Hernández.
Saturday, 26 June 2010
Has Mexico's time finally arrived?
That’s the question doing the rounds in Mexico as the minutes tick down to Sunday’s big game with Argentina.
Two strains of thought prevail.
Some look at the game against Argentina through the lens of fatalism that tends to define Mexico’s psyche (see post from yesterday about Rafa Marquez) and say the national team is destined to lose, like four years ago when Maxi Rodriguez broke Mexican hearts in extra time at the same stage of the competition.
But another, far more positive theory is gaining ground.
The optimists argue that 2010 is Mexico’s year, when the nation marks the 200th anniversary of its independence from Spain, as well as the bicentennial of its bloodthirsty revolution that threw up heroes like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata. Something is supposed to happen this year. Will it be football related? Revenge against Argentina perhaps?
What is certain is that Mexico will need to play at the highest level to be victorious. The key men will be holding midfielders Rafael Marquez and Gerardo Torrado, whose task will be to break up Argentina’s intricate passing game. Both have experience on their side, Marquez knows Messi inside out and both will want to end their international careers on a high.
The other major debate is who should play up front. Argentine-born Mexican Guillermo Franco isn’t cutting it and most fans are calling for Manchester United new boy Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez to start.
Chicharito has become the ‘golden boy’ of the ‘golden generation’ of Mexican youngsters. In 1998, a fresh-faced Michael Owen scored a wonder goal against Argentina in the same round. Millions of Mexicans are praying Chicharito can do the same.
Probable starting line-up: Perez, Osorio, Moreno, Rodriguez, Salcido, Marquez, Giovani, Juarez/Guardado, Torrado, Vela/Barrera, Franco/Chicharito.
If pressed: Juarez, Barrera, Franco to start based on what Aguirre has done so far and his stubbornness! Vela depends on his fitness.
Two strains of thought prevail.
Some look at the game against Argentina through the lens of fatalism that tends to define Mexico’s psyche (see post from yesterday about Rafa Marquez) and say the national team is destined to lose, like four years ago when Maxi Rodriguez broke Mexican hearts in extra time at the same stage of the competition.
But another, far more positive theory is gaining ground.
The optimists argue that 2010 is Mexico’s year, when the nation marks the 200th anniversary of its independence from Spain, as well as the bicentennial of its bloodthirsty revolution that threw up heroes like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata. Something is supposed to happen this year. Will it be football related? Revenge against Argentina perhaps?
What is certain is that Mexico will need to play at the highest level to be victorious. The key men will be holding midfielders Rafael Marquez and Gerardo Torrado, whose task will be to break up Argentina’s intricate passing game. Both have experience on their side, Marquez knows Messi inside out and both will want to end their international careers on a high.
The other major debate is who should play up front. Argentine-born Mexican Guillermo Franco isn’t cutting it and most fans are calling for Manchester United new boy Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez to start.
Chicharito has become the ‘golden boy’ of the ‘golden generation’ of Mexican youngsters. In 1998, a fresh-faced Michael Owen scored a wonder goal against Argentina in the same round. Millions of Mexicans are praying Chicharito can do the same.
Probable starting line-up: Perez, Osorio, Moreno, Rodriguez, Salcido, Marquez, Giovani, Juarez/Guardado, Torrado, Vela/Barrera, Franco/Chicharito.
If pressed: Juarez, Barrera, Franco to start based on what Aguirre has done so far and his stubbornness! Vela depends on his fitness.
Chicharito fastest player in World Cup group stages
Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez registered the fastest run in the group stages of the World Cup, according to FIFA statistics.
The 22-year-old Guadalajara-born striker hit a top speed of 32.15 kilometres-an-hour, or 20 miles-an-hour, say FIFA.
The news puts more weight behind the massive campaign in Mexico for him to start against Argentina (see posts below).
In other positive news for Mexico, Lionel Messi has had most shots without scoring.
The 22-year-old Guadalajara-born striker hit a top speed of 32.15 kilometres-an-hour, or 20 miles-an-hour, say FIFA.
The news puts more weight behind the massive campaign in Mexico for him to start against Argentina (see posts below).
In other positive news for Mexico, Lionel Messi has had most shots without scoring.
Pundit's Corner: Emor Villa
Like most of Mexico, Record journalist Emor Villa isn't in agreement with Javier Aguirre's selection policy and is hoping for a change against Argentina. Villa votes for youth and argues the whole Mexican Football Federation set-up is hampered by shadowy figures on the side-line.
Who will win and why?
It's all up in the air although the prognostics favour the powerful Argentine attacking artillery. I had forecast that Mexico would reach the semi-finals where they would face Argentina, but having not finished first in Group A, it appears Mexico is condemned to elimination.
For me Argentina should win, but if Javier Aguirre and not Mario Carrillo (they say Carrillo is in charge of the tactics of el Tri)takes charge of the set up of the team, Mexico can bring the fight to Argentina, even with Messi, Higuain, Tevez and the whole Argetinian arsenal.
Who will play for Mexico?
Knowing the history of Aguirre, I'm sure not much will change. People say the assistant Mario Carrillo choses the team and if that is that case, what a disaster!
How can the manager let his assistant tell him how to play? Javier Aguirre already showed he's a good strategist in Spain, although defensive.
What's more, el Tri appear to be manipulated by other people that aren't on the bench.
In agreement with the interests of some media outlets (that make Mexican football rotten), the Mexico line-up will be: Óscar Pérez (goalkeeper), Francisco "Maza" Rodríguez, Héctor Moreno (centre backs), Carlos Salcido (left back), Ricardo Osorio (right back), Rafael Márquez y Gerardo Torrado (centre midfield), Efraín Juárez (midfield), Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Vela and unfortunately, Guillermo Franco (forwards).
If you were Aguirre, how would you set up?
It's like the song "If I was Maradona!"
Mexico has the means to give a good fight against one of the best generations of footballers Argentina has produced. Today it's not like when Maradona was the standard bearer of the team. They might have got good results, but Valdano, Burruchaga and others don't compare with the technical quality that Higuain, Aguero, Milito, Tevez and the others have today.
But, Mexico also has it's best generation in recent years. In the team there are world Under-17 champions that already have an important trajectory at world level.
The line-up I'd put in is the following: Luis Michel (GK) - one-on-one he's better than el Conejo Perez and he reduces the angles for shots for attackers.
In defence I'd keep it the same: Maza, Moreno, Salcido and Osorio. I believe it's the best centre back partnership Mexico has had in its history. Rafa Marquez would play in central midfielder, next to Torrado. Those are indisputable.
Out wide I'd play Andres Guardado (left) and Pablo Barrera (right) with Giovani Dos Santos as a second striker. As the main centre forward I'd pick Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez.
But that line-up isn't likely to be seen, above all because of the way the team is run in our country.
Finally, I have two predictions. The first is that Guille France will play. Secondly, if he does, I'm sure Mexico will lose and it could be a thrashing. If Aguirre risks young blood, the penalty could be the end of this history (of losing).
Who will win and why?
It's all up in the air although the prognostics favour the powerful Argentine attacking artillery. I had forecast that Mexico would reach the semi-finals where they would face Argentina, but having not finished first in Group A, it appears Mexico is condemned to elimination.
For me Argentina should win, but if Javier Aguirre and not Mario Carrillo (they say Carrillo is in charge of the tactics of el Tri)takes charge of the set up of the team, Mexico can bring the fight to Argentina, even with Messi, Higuain, Tevez and the whole Argetinian arsenal.
Who will play for Mexico?
Knowing the history of Aguirre, I'm sure not much will change. People say the assistant Mario Carrillo choses the team and if that is that case, what a disaster!
How can the manager let his assistant tell him how to play? Javier Aguirre already showed he's a good strategist in Spain, although defensive.
What's more, el Tri appear to be manipulated by other people that aren't on the bench.
In agreement with the interests of some media outlets (that make Mexican football rotten), the Mexico line-up will be: Óscar Pérez (goalkeeper), Francisco "Maza" Rodríguez, Héctor Moreno (centre backs), Carlos Salcido (left back), Ricardo Osorio (right back), Rafael Márquez y Gerardo Torrado (centre midfield), Efraín Juárez (midfield), Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Vela and unfortunately, Guillermo Franco (forwards).
If you were Aguirre, how would you set up?
It's like the song "If I was Maradona!"
Mexico has the means to give a good fight against one of the best generations of footballers Argentina has produced. Today it's not like when Maradona was the standard bearer of the team. They might have got good results, but Valdano, Burruchaga and others don't compare with the technical quality that Higuain, Aguero, Milito, Tevez and the others have today.
But, Mexico also has it's best generation in recent years. In the team there are world Under-17 champions that already have an important trajectory at world level.
The line-up I'd put in is the following: Luis Michel (GK) - one-on-one he's better than el Conejo Perez and he reduces the angles for shots for attackers.
In defence I'd keep it the same: Maza, Moreno, Salcido and Osorio. I believe it's the best centre back partnership Mexico has had in its history. Rafa Marquez would play in central midfielder, next to Torrado. Those are indisputable.
Out wide I'd play Andres Guardado (left) and Pablo Barrera (right) with Giovani Dos Santos as a second striker. As the main centre forward I'd pick Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez.
But that line-up isn't likely to be seen, above all because of the way the team is run in our country.
Finally, I have two predictions. The first is that Guille France will play. Secondly, if he does, I'm sure Mexico will lose and it could be a thrashing. If Aguirre risks young blood, the penalty could be the end of this history (of losing).
Chicharito must play, says Congressman
The clamour for Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez to be in Mexico's starting eleven against Argentina on Sunday reached the Congress this week.
PRI Congressman Eric Rubio demanded that coach Javier Aguirre should be called to explain to the nation his selection decisions and why he took Andres Guardado off at half-time.
"He should have to answer why he started the spoilt Blanco, why he took off Guardado and why he didn't put 'Chicharito' Hernandez in the starting team," said the Mexican politician.
The demand for Chicharito is all over the papers, all over the television and all the talk among Mexicans. "Stubborn" is the word that continually crops up when Aguirre's selection of Guillermo Franco is discussed.
There's even a prayer going the email rounds, which plays on a TV advert in which the players star, with the catchphrase "make sandwiches."
Here's part of it in Spanish:
San Dwichito… Que la meta el chicharito. (Play Chicharito)
San Dwich de Pan Blanco… Que no metan al Guille Franco (Don't play Franco)
And to end the whole thing:
San Dwich con Queso blanco…..No se te olvide… que no metan al Guille Franco.
(Don't forget, don't play Franco)
A front page editorial in El Tren newspaper, also begged people to pray that Chicharito will start. Indeed, in the face of Aguirre's "stubborness," it appears praying is common activity to counter it.
Mexican manager at the World Cup four years ago, Argentine Ricardo La Volpe perhaps summed up the situation best in an opinion piece.
"Guille Franco has been given his chance and he's not done it. It's time for Chicharito."
PRI Congressman Eric Rubio demanded that coach Javier Aguirre should be called to explain to the nation his selection decisions and why he took Andres Guardado off at half-time.
"He should have to answer why he started the spoilt Blanco, why he took off Guardado and why he didn't put 'Chicharito' Hernandez in the starting team," said the Mexican politician.
The demand for Chicharito is all over the papers, all over the television and all the talk among Mexicans. "Stubborn" is the word that continually crops up when Aguirre's selection of Guillermo Franco is discussed.
There's even a prayer going the email rounds, which plays on a TV advert in which the players star, with the catchphrase "make sandwiches."
Here's part of it in Spanish:
San Dwichito… Que la meta el chicharito. (Play Chicharito)
San Dwich de Pan Blanco… Que no metan al Guille Franco (Don't play Franco)
And to end the whole thing:
San Dwich con Queso blanco…..No se te olvide… que no metan al Guille Franco.
(Don't forget, don't play Franco)
A front page editorial in El Tren newspaper, also begged people to pray that Chicharito will start. Indeed, in the face of Aguirre's "stubborness," it appears praying is common activity to counter it.
Mexican manager at the World Cup four years ago, Argentine Ricardo La Volpe perhaps summed up the situation best in an opinion piece.
"Guille Franco has been given his chance and he's not done it. It's time for Chicharito."
Rafa:"It's Argentina, so what?"
Mexico's most decorated player Rafael Marquez, with four Spanish league titles and two Champions Leage winners medals, took a dig at the fatalism and pessimism of Mexico and Mexicans before the game against Argentina and declared that the team is ready to win.
"Mexico has to change its mentaily if it's to grow as a country," said Marquez, visibly getting a little worked up in a pre-game press conference.
"There's always pessimism," continued the Barcelona player likely to move on after the World Cup. "Sometimes we don't have the credibility, we can't count on that advantage other countries have. We are doing all we can, we give everything we have to bring joy to the Mexican people."
The comments divided opinion on late night football talk shows. Some pundits think the comments an unecessary diversion before such a massive game, while others believe Marquez is 100 percent right.
A proven winner, Marquez has never captured the Mexican public like peers Cuauhtemoc Blanco. The common suggestion is that he doesn't give his all for Mexico, especially during qualifers and has previously got sent off on purpose in certain games, people say. The slight Spanish accent some say he has picked up belies his small-town Michoacan roots and has been mocked in Mexico.
Of course, there has been no better Mexican player than Marquez over the last ten years and he's done won things in Europe that only Hugo Sanchez can claim to rival.
If people still need evidence of how important Marquez is to Mexico, look no further than this World Cup. Marquez scored the vital equaliser against South Africa, set up the opener against France with an excellent pass and has generally been excellent playing in midfield. Testament to his continued influence is how important Marquez will be against Argentina in stemming their attack. Without Marquez, how much would Mexico's probability of winning be reduced?
What's more, Marquez is right. A change of mentality is needed. Argentina are good but far from invincible. Si se puede but the team has to genuinely believe it.
"Mexico has to change its mentaily if it's to grow as a country," said Marquez, visibly getting a little worked up in a pre-game press conference.
"There's always pessimism," continued the Barcelona player likely to move on after the World Cup. "Sometimes we don't have the credibility, we can't count on that advantage other countries have. We are doing all we can, we give everything we have to bring joy to the Mexican people."
The comments divided opinion on late night football talk shows. Some pundits think the comments an unecessary diversion before such a massive game, while others believe Marquez is 100 percent right.
A proven winner, Marquez has never captured the Mexican public like peers Cuauhtemoc Blanco. The common suggestion is that he doesn't give his all for Mexico, especially during qualifers and has previously got sent off on purpose in certain games, people say. The slight Spanish accent some say he has picked up belies his small-town Michoacan roots and has been mocked in Mexico.
Of course, there has been no better Mexican player than Marquez over the last ten years and he's done won things in Europe that only Hugo Sanchez can claim to rival.
If people still need evidence of how important Marquez is to Mexico, look no further than this World Cup. Marquez scored the vital equaliser against South Africa, set up the opener against France with an excellent pass and has generally been excellent playing in midfield. Testament to his continued influence is how important Marquez will be against Argentina in stemming their attack. Without Marquez, how much would Mexico's probability of winning be reduced?
What's more, Marquez is right. A change of mentality is needed. Argentina are good but far from invincible. Si se puede but the team has to genuinely believe it.
Tuesday, 22 June 2010
Mexico manager Javier Aguirre spoke of his disappointment about the Mexican team's attitude in the game against Uruguay and said they failed to adapt to the oppositions plan to stop them.
"We lacked the initial attitude, to truly want to win the game and not just saying it in the changing rooms," Aguirre said at the post-match press conference. "We lacked the nous to read that Uruguay were pressuring us high up the field and to change the angle of attack."
Aguirre went on to say his instructions to get the defence to stop playing the ball patiently forward and instead play more directly failed to reach the players, especially in the first ten minutes when Uruguay's tactics became obvious.
And when questioned about the wisdom of starting with Guillermo Franco for the third straight game, Aguirre said: "Coaches always lose. The players are the ones that win. We came here to qualify for the second round and we have qualified. We will regroup, recuperate and wait for our rival on Sunday."
"If we play Argentina, it will be a beautiful opportunity for revenge for what happened four years ago," added Aguirre.
When it came to asking why Andres Guardado was taken off at half-time, Aguirre took full responsibility and said it was for tactical reasons.
"It's very difficult to please everyone," said Aguirre. "I only try to do what's best for the national team."
Nevertheless, there is widespread criticism already appearing in the Mexican press.
Ex national team player turned football pundit Carlos Albert called Aguirre "fatuous" and "stubborn" on ESPN's Futbol Picante.
Talking about the big "surprise" choice of Blanco and Franco upfront, Albert pulled no punches but sums up what many Mexicans on the street are thinking.
"Without doubt it was an error by the coaching staff. How is it possible that Aguirre starts with Cuauhtemoc Blanco, takes off Guardado (the team's best player in the first half) and stubbornly persists in starting with Franco when it was the chance to put in Javier Hernandez," steamed Albert.
The Record newspaper are also apparently running a piece tomorrow on how Aguirre should put faith in the younger players (see post below).
Aguirre did however set things up nicely for the Argentina game. Four years ago in Germany, Maxi Rodriguez scored an amazing goal in extra time to break Mexican hearts. This time around, Aguirre wants revenge.
"We will try to change the course of history and hope that on this ocassion the player to score a wonder goal is Mexican."
"We lacked the initial attitude, to truly want to win the game and not just saying it in the changing rooms," Aguirre said at the post-match press conference. "We lacked the nous to read that Uruguay were pressuring us high up the field and to change the angle of attack."
Aguirre went on to say his instructions to get the defence to stop playing the ball patiently forward and instead play more directly failed to reach the players, especially in the first ten minutes when Uruguay's tactics became obvious.
And when questioned about the wisdom of starting with Guillermo Franco for the third straight game, Aguirre said: "Coaches always lose. The players are the ones that win. We came here to qualify for the second round and we have qualified. We will regroup, recuperate and wait for our rival on Sunday."
"If we play Argentina, it will be a beautiful opportunity for revenge for what happened four years ago," added Aguirre.
When it came to asking why Andres Guardado was taken off at half-time, Aguirre took full responsibility and said it was for tactical reasons.
"It's very difficult to please everyone," said Aguirre. "I only try to do what's best for the national team."
Nevertheless, there is widespread criticism already appearing in the Mexican press.
Ex national team player turned football pundit Carlos Albert called Aguirre "fatuous" and "stubborn" on ESPN's Futbol Picante.
Talking about the big "surprise" choice of Blanco and Franco upfront, Albert pulled no punches but sums up what many Mexicans on the street are thinking.
"Without doubt it was an error by the coaching staff. How is it possible that Aguirre starts with Cuauhtemoc Blanco, takes off Guardado (the team's best player in the first half) and stubbornly persists in starting with Franco when it was the chance to put in Javier Hernandez," steamed Albert.
The Record newspaper are also apparently running a piece tomorrow on how Aguirre should put faith in the younger players (see post below).
Aguirre did however set things up nicely for the Argentina game. Four years ago in Germany, Maxi Rodriguez scored an amazing goal in extra time to break Mexican hearts. This time around, Aguirre wants revenge.
"We will try to change the course of history and hope that on this ocassion the player to score a wonder goal is Mexican."
Aguirre must take some of the blame: Chicharito? Barrera?
With the press conferences yet to take place, on the surface it seems Mexico manager made selection errors that cost the team today.
That statement has to be put in the context that Javier Aguirre himself has said this is Mexico's best generation of young players in its history: Chicharito, Efrain Juarez, Andres Guardado, Pablo Barrera, Giovani Dos Santos, Hector Moreno, Carlos Vela, Guillermo Ochoa.
Only one of the above played 90 minutes against Uruguay.
Andres Guardado was inexplicably taken off at halftime after being at the forefront of most good things that came from Mexico in the first half; Chicharito started as sub and only got half an hour playing time; Barrera came on at halftime (for Guardado) and Moreno was taken off.
It hardly looks like Aguirre has faith in the young crop of players Mexico has.
Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez looked lively and broke the deadlock against France and Pablo Barrera played exceptionally well when he came on for Carlos Vela.
Playing 33-year-old Franco and 37-year-old Blanco upfront together hindered the team in the first half. The ball evaded Blanco as he struggled to keep pace with a fast and engaging first period. Franco held the ball up as usual but the lack of mobility upfront was blatant and the frustration tangible in Mexican supporters in one Guadalajara bar.
It will be a massive game against Argentina Sunday and perhaps Aguirre would be advised to go for youth in attempting to avoid the same old Mexican problem of raising the nation's expectations only to go out in the Round of 16.
That statement has to be put in the context that Javier Aguirre himself has said this is Mexico's best generation of young players in its history: Chicharito, Efrain Juarez, Andres Guardado, Pablo Barrera, Giovani Dos Santos, Hector Moreno, Carlos Vela, Guillermo Ochoa.
Only one of the above played 90 minutes against Uruguay.
Andres Guardado was inexplicably taken off at halftime after being at the forefront of most good things that came from Mexico in the first half; Chicharito started as sub and only got half an hour playing time; Barrera came on at halftime (for Guardado) and Moreno was taken off.
It hardly looks like Aguirre has faith in the young crop of players Mexico has.
Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez looked lively and broke the deadlock against France and Pablo Barrera played exceptionally well when he came on for Carlos Vela.
Playing 33-year-old Franco and 37-year-old Blanco upfront together hindered the team in the first half. The ball evaded Blanco as he struggled to keep pace with a fast and engaging first period. Franco held the ball up as usual but the lack of mobility upfront was blatant and the frustration tangible in Mexican supporters in one Guadalajara bar.
It will be a massive game against Argentina Sunday and perhaps Aguirre would be advised to go for youth in attempting to avoid the same old Mexican problem of raising the nation's expectations only to go out in the Round of 16.
Monday, 21 June 2010
Ferguson praises Chicharito
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson told a New York radio station that he was impressed by Chicharito's performance against France.
"He did very well. He showed good movement, is quick and sees space very well. I was very pleased with his performance," said Ferguson.
As a legend of Mexican football, Chicharito's grandfather Tomas Balcazar said it was vital his grandson caught the eye of the United boss and use the World Cup as a springboard for his career in England.
He seems to be doing just that. Bring on Uruguay ...
"He did very well. He showed good movement, is quick and sees space very well. I was very pleased with his performance," said Ferguson.
As a legend of Mexican football, Chicharito's grandfather Tomas Balcazar said it was vital his grandson caught the eye of the United boss and use the World Cup as a springboard for his career in England.
He seems to be doing just that. Bring on Uruguay ...
Press round up 21/6/10: Starting lineup v Uruguay?
As usual before the day of a Mexico game, the papers are full of rumours about the starting eleven and especially the front line.
The clamour for Chicharito to start was intense before the France game and now it's reaching a crescendo, but the Mexican papers suggest he might well start the game on the bench again.
Cancha, to date the most reliable publication on the subject, says manager Javier Aguirre experimented with Guillermo Franco and Pablo Barrera together in attack during the final training session. The same paper then says Chicharito was given his turn with Alberto Medina, but then Aguirre reverted to Franco and Barrera at the end of the session.
If Mexico keep their 4-3-3 system, it seems that despite Vela's injury it will be a straight fight between Franco and Chicharito for the position at the head of the front three. Barrera is almost certain to start in place of Vela.
Behind them, Esto and other newspapers say Guardado will play on the left of a three man midfield instead of the suspended Efrain Juarez. The decision to start Juarez in the first place was a big surprise for most pundits but Juarez' form has been superb.
Guardado, currently with Deportivo de La Coruña, looks set to move on should a big enough bid come in. Martin O'Neill is reportedly a big fan, but the Mexican press reckon there are a horde of clubs after him from England, Spain and Holland. With his experience (read here) the pressure game against Uruguay shouldn't be a problem.
The Mexican press are generally confident about getting a victory against Uruguay but recognise the teams are quite evenly matched. Uruguay have never beaten Mexico in a competitive game however.
In other news, there's a lot of talk about how at least five of the Uruguayan squad have suffered some kind of rejection from the Mexican league. Sebastian Abreu, on the other hand, has been highly successful.
...And one last thing. Javier Aguirre's son, Iñaki, has been transferred to the Bolton Wanderers youth team squad. Aguirre confirmed that the family will be moving to the North West of England to accompany their youngest son. Who will also be nearby? New Manchester United signing Chicharito. Aguirre was actually coached by Chicharito's granddad and played with his father. The two families get along well according to Aguirre and now they'll be able to get used to the cold together.
Aguirre has a longstanding desire to manage a team in the Premier League.
The clamour for Chicharito to start was intense before the France game and now it's reaching a crescendo, but the Mexican papers suggest he might well start the game on the bench again.
Cancha, to date the most reliable publication on the subject, says manager Javier Aguirre experimented with Guillermo Franco and Pablo Barrera together in attack during the final training session. The same paper then says Chicharito was given his turn with Alberto Medina, but then Aguirre reverted to Franco and Barrera at the end of the session.
If Mexico keep their 4-3-3 system, it seems that despite Vela's injury it will be a straight fight between Franco and Chicharito for the position at the head of the front three. Barrera is almost certain to start in place of Vela.
Behind them, Esto and other newspapers say Guardado will play on the left of a three man midfield instead of the suspended Efrain Juarez. The decision to start Juarez in the first place was a big surprise for most pundits but Juarez' form has been superb.
Guardado, currently with Deportivo de La Coruña, looks set to move on should a big enough bid come in. Martin O'Neill is reportedly a big fan, but the Mexican press reckon there are a horde of clubs after him from England, Spain and Holland. With his experience (read here) the pressure game against Uruguay shouldn't be a problem.
The Mexican press are generally confident about getting a victory against Uruguay but recognise the teams are quite evenly matched. Uruguay have never beaten Mexico in a competitive game however.
In other news, there's a lot of talk about how at least five of the Uruguayan squad have suffered some kind of rejection from the Mexican league. Sebastian Abreu, on the other hand, has been highly successful.
...And one last thing. Javier Aguirre's son, Iñaki, has been transferred to the Bolton Wanderers youth team squad. Aguirre confirmed that the family will be moving to the North West of England to accompany their youngest son. Who will also be nearby? New Manchester United signing Chicharito. Aguirre was actually coached by Chicharito's granddad and played with his father. The two families get along well according to Aguirre and now they'll be able to get used to the cold together.
Aguirre has a longstanding desire to manage a team in the Premier League.
Sunday, 20 June 2010
Vela out, step up Mr. Pablo Barrera
Two days after coming on for injured Carlos Vela during the first half of Mexico's game against France, Pablo Barrera was being touted with a move to Manchester United, at least in the Mexican press.
While that particular rumour might be premature, it is certainly the case that the 23-year-old (it's his birthday today) Barrera caught a few eyes in his World Cup debut. It wouldn't be going too far to suggest that Mexico looked a more threatening team with him in place of Vela.
Almost certain to take the Arsenal player's place in the starting line-up against Uruguay on Tuesday, performances like that against France would indeed prick up the ears of some European clubs.
Extremely quick, good at taking defenders on and with an eye for goal, the Pumas UNAM right winger/forward made his debut in the Mexican league at just 18. Two years later, the boy from Tlalnepantla (pronounce that if you can), State of Mexico, was called into the national team.
His quick rise up the rungs of the Mexican footballing ladder (which includes a European move at the upper echelons) was put on hold when he suffered a cruciate ligament rupture and was forced out the game for six months in the summer of 2008.
After that, Barrera struggled to recapture his old form. Bit by bit however, he's reached his former heights. In the season just finished in Mexico, Barrera was superb for Pumas.
The videos (right) show some of his goals. They are well worth watching and include some golazos, or crackers, scored with both feet and his head.
Perhaps the main criticism of Barrera has been a lack of consistency and problems with his final ball.
The game against France however showed Barrera has the mental strength to cope when a difficult situation comes his way. Indeed, Barrera took it all in his stride last Thursday, giving a good example of what he can do by bursting into the box and winning Mexico a penalty in the second half.
Barrera had contract problems last summer with Pumas and at the time said he was prepared to listen to offers from other clubs. A significant amount of money from a European club would surely turn both his and his club's heads this time around.
Part of Mexico's "golden generation" of players that includes Guillermo Ochoa, Hector Moreno, Efrain Juarez, Chicharito, Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos that coach Javier Aguirre considers the best in the country's history, Barrera's future looks bright.
Press round up 21/6/10: Champions? Why not?
On Father's Day, the 'daddy' of the Mexican squad, Cuauhtemoc Blanco - and he really could be the father of some of the players- told a press conference that Mexico should be thinking about winning the World Cup and that they fear nobody.
"Why shouldn't we think about becoming champions if we have a great team?" said Cuau.
Blanco also denied that there is any pact between Mexico and Uruguay to draw the game on Tuesday and ensure both qualify for the Round of 16.
"For me there is no pact," said Blanco. "I love to win and my teammates are the same. We have that mentality. I don't care which of Uruguay, France or South Africa don't proceed."
And as for a potential clash against Argentina if Mexico fail to beat Uruguay and finish second in the group, Cuauhtemoc said: "We've got to remember that we haven't qualified yet," before adding: "We are very focussed and we'll have to beat them (Argentina) at some stage to advance. We don't have a problem confronting Argentina."
Defender Ricardo Osorio warns that Mexico can still improve on their performance against France.
"I believe that we can still give more. We're playing well but are still lacking some small details to finish moves well."
The transfer rumour mill is in full effect following Mexico's good performance against France.
Giovani Dos Santos is being watched by a number of clubs, with Italian outfit Genova yesterday making public their interest in the young Mexican-Brazilian. He still officially plays for Tottenham Hotspur but was last season loaned out to Galatasaray and before that, err, Ipswich. A couple of good performances and it would be no surprise to see Gio move to a middle-to-top ranking European club.
The surprising rumour of the day is a loan move for new Manchester United striker Chicharito Hernandez to Valencia, on calcionews24.com. The 22-year-old would be an excellent replacement for David Villa, says the source.
Cuauhtemoc Blanco, Ricardo Osorio, Guillermo Franco, Oscar Perez, Rafa Marquez, Giovani Dos Santos and, possibly, Pablo Barrera (see blog tomorrow for profile) are all moving on this summer, so they are in the shop window this World Cup.
In other news, Carlos Vela was 'trotting' in training yesterday but won't make the Uruguay game and probably not a potential Round of 16 game. Pablo Barrera is likely to take his place.
Another fact the Mexican press pick up on is that Uruguay have never beaten Mexico in competition.
However, until the France game, Mexico had never beaten one of the World Cup winning teams in the World Cup. They'll be hoping to defeat their second in a row on Tuesday.
"Why shouldn't we think about becoming champions if we have a great team?" said Cuau.Blanco also denied that there is any pact between Mexico and Uruguay to draw the game on Tuesday and ensure both qualify for the Round of 16.
"For me there is no pact," said Blanco. "I love to win and my teammates are the same. We have that mentality. I don't care which of Uruguay, France or South Africa don't proceed."
And as for a potential clash against Argentina if Mexico fail to beat Uruguay and finish second in the group, Cuauhtemoc said: "We've got to remember that we haven't qualified yet," before adding: "We are very focussed and we'll have to beat them (Argentina) at some stage to advance. We don't have a problem confronting Argentina."
Defender Ricardo Osorio warns that Mexico can still improve on their performance against France.
"I believe that we can still give more. We're playing well but are still lacking some small details to finish moves well."
The transfer rumour mill is in full effect following Mexico's good performance against France.
Giovani Dos Santos is being watched by a number of clubs, with Italian outfit Genova yesterday making public their interest in the young Mexican-Brazilian. He still officially plays for Tottenham Hotspur but was last season loaned out to Galatasaray and before that, err, Ipswich. A couple of good performances and it would be no surprise to see Gio move to a middle-to-top ranking European club.
The surprising rumour of the day is a loan move for new Manchester United striker Chicharito Hernandez to Valencia, on calcionews24.com. The 22-year-old would be an excellent replacement for David Villa, says the source.
Cuauhtemoc Blanco, Ricardo Osorio, Guillermo Franco, Oscar Perez, Rafa Marquez, Giovani Dos Santos and, possibly, Pablo Barrera (see blog tomorrow for profile) are all moving on this summer, so they are in the shop window this World Cup.
In other news, Carlos Vela was 'trotting' in training yesterday but won't make the Uruguay game and probably not a potential Round of 16 game. Pablo Barrera is likely to take his place.
Another fact the Mexican press pick up on is that Uruguay have never beaten Mexico in competition.
However, until the France game, Mexico had never beaten one of the World Cup winning teams in the World Cup. They'll be hoping to defeat their second in a row on Tuesday.
Friday, 18 June 2010
Guadalajara goes mad: Video
Taken 30 minutes after the game against France ended, thousands of Tapatios (people from Jalisco) descended on La Minerva roundabout. This is the result:
1st chant: "Where are they, where are the ones that were going to beat us?"
In Spanish: "En donde esta, en donde esta, en donde esta el que nos iba a ganar?"
2nd chant: "Yes, we did it!"
In Spanish: "Si se pudo"
3rd chant: "Ay, ay, ay, ay, sing and don't cry"
In Spanish: "Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores."
And in a photos:
1st chant: "Where are they, where are the ones that were going to beat us?"
In Spanish: "En donde esta, en donde esta, en donde esta el que nos iba a ganar?"
2nd chant: "Yes, we did it!"
In Spanish: "Si se pudo"
3rd chant: "Ay, ay, ay, ay, sing and don't cry"
In Spanish: "Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores."
And in a photos:
Brilliant Mexico, but a massive match awaits Tuesday
Although on this blog there have been queries about manager Javier Aguirre's team selection, most notably for leaving out Chicharito and Andres Guardado, "El Vasco" deserves a lot of credit for yesterday.
The first half passed as so many other recent games have for Mexico: playing well, nice movement, good to watch, but, no goals.
France hardly looked good but as opposed to Uruguay who took the draw against France, Aguirre went for the win aggressively. On came Chicharito for Efrain Juarez, followed by Cuauhtemoc Blanco for Guillermo Franco.
Mexico grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and had a forward line of Giovani Dos Santos, Chicharito, Franco/Blanco and Barrera for the last 35 minutes.
The result means that in their last three games Mexico have beaten the two finalists from the last World Cup; no mean feat.
But although celebrations were massive yesterday throughout the country and in South Africa (where the Mexican fans are one of the few you can hear singing above the drone of the vuvuzelas), Aguirre has been right today to come out and say Uruguay is the focus and that Mexico aren't yet even in the Round of 16.
"I hope that we can impose our style against Uruguay," Aguirre told the press. "If we draw, of course Uruguay are the beneficiaries."
The second-placed team from Group A will likely face Argentina, an altogether different prospect than France or Italy. The top team from Group A gets South Korea or Greece and Mexico would be favourites.
That means the game against Uruguay is massive and it is unlikely Mexico will settle for the draw even if it could mean going out.
The first half passed as so many other recent games have for Mexico: playing well, nice movement, good to watch, but, no goals.France hardly looked good but as opposed to Uruguay who took the draw against France, Aguirre went for the win aggressively. On came Chicharito for Efrain Juarez, followed by Cuauhtemoc Blanco for Guillermo Franco.
Mexico grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and had a forward line of Giovani Dos Santos, Chicharito, Franco/Blanco and Barrera for the last 35 minutes.
The result means that in their last three games Mexico have beaten the two finalists from the last World Cup; no mean feat.
But although celebrations were massive yesterday throughout the country and in South Africa (where the Mexican fans are one of the few you can hear singing above the drone of the vuvuzelas), Aguirre has been right today to come out and say Uruguay is the focus and that Mexico aren't yet even in the Round of 16.
"I hope that we can impose our style against Uruguay," Aguirre told the press. "If we draw, of course Uruguay are the beneficiaries."The second-placed team from Group A will likely face Argentina, an altogether different prospect than France or Italy. The top team from Group A gets South Korea or Greece and Mexico would be favourites.
That means the game against Uruguay is massive and it is unlikely Mexico will settle for the draw even if it could mean going out.
'Historic' say Mexican press
The word that stands out from having a gander through today's papers is 'historic.'
Mexico had never beaten France, always lose when it's cold and had never beaten one of the eight teams that have won the tournament during a World Cup.
"5th of May in South Africa," reads the headline in Guadalajara Spanish-language daily Mural. The same paper runs a poll indicating 98 percent of Mexicans believe their team played well. Chicharito (25%) led the way in votes for who was Mexico's Man-of-the-Match, followed by Carlos Salcido (18%), Rafael Marquez (17%) and Cuauhtemoc Blanco (?!?! on 13 %).
Wrote Rafael Ocampo, a TV pundit and columnist for Milenio: "The Mexican football team obtained a very much deserved victory yesterday. The boys were not only well organised and enthusiastic. They added concentration and the determination necessary to go for the front in spite of having a historically superior rival in front of them."
You can't really argue with that.
Mexico had never beaten France, always lose when it's cold and had never beaten one of the eight teams that have won the tournament during a World Cup.
"5th of May in South Africa," reads the headline in Guadalajara Spanish-language daily Mural. The same paper runs a poll indicating 98 percent of Mexicans believe their team played well. Chicharito (25%) led the way in votes for who was Mexico's Man-of-the-Match, followed by Carlos Salcido (18%), Rafael Marquez (17%) and Cuauhtemoc Blanco (?!?! on 13 %).
Wrote Rafael Ocampo, a TV pundit and columnist for Milenio: "The Mexican football team obtained a very much deserved victory yesterday. The boys were not only well organised and enthusiastic. They added concentration and the determination necessary to go for the front in spite of having a historically superior rival in front of them."
You can't really argue with that.
Thursday, 17 June 2010
'Chicharito, Chicharito' is chant in Guadalajara
Guadalajara literally went wild Tuesday as Mexico beat France 2-0 in the World Cup in South Africa and Guadalajara golden boy Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez became the nation’s hero after scoring the first goal.Thousands gathered at the city’s emblematic Minerva roundabout to dance, sing and be generally merry.
Police closed the streets to traffic and were slightly displeased that a group of young fans took over a municipal pickup and drove it down the street, but quickly brought the situation under control without any major problem.
“I can’t believe it,” said one ecstatic older women celebrating with her granddaughters. “We beat the French, I didn’t think we would but we did.”
The result puts Mexico in a great position to qualify for the Round of 16 that will be held next weekend. A draw against Uruguay on Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. will secure their passage and mean France go home early. Very few people predicted that.
“We are huge (Guadalajara) Chivas fans, it’s great Chicharito scored, I love him,’ let slip one young girl, who probably speaks for many Mexican women tonight.
On a more serious note, it hasn’t been a great week for Mexico with a lot of deaths associated with drug cartels. At the Minerva though, no-one seemed concerned.“We don’t even care about that, we’re here to celebrate because Mexico won and we are very happy,” shouted one shirtless youth, before continuing his merry dance.
One Oxxo near the Minerva was forced to close the front door due to the sheer volume of people and the victory parade, considering it was on a workday, was huge.
“We’re used to this, it’s part of our jobs,” said one glum looking policeman.
Who knows how many didn’t bother to go back to work after the game.
All is now set for Mexico to advance to the next round. Keep your fingers crossed Tuesday and don’t expect much productivity in the country in general if Mexico win.
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
Why Mexico needs a win
In the last week there has been over 200 murders associated with drug cartel-related violence in Mexico.
Twenty-eight were killed in one Mazatlan prison that, according to authorities, housed nacrotraffickers from differing cartels.
In Zitacuaro, Michoacan police were involved in a shoot-out that left 12 policemen and a number of criminals dead.
In the picturesque tourist town of Taxco, Guerrero, known as the silver capital of Mexico, 15 were killed Tuesday.
And in Nayarit, 30 murders in three days have caused state authorities to end the school term early. Schools will finish Friday.
It's been the bloodiest week in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon took office in 2006.
Calderon himself issued a rousing 10-minute Message to the Nation Tuesday imploring Mexicans to support his government’s fight against criminal networks.
What's this got to do with football?
Well, a victory against France would give Mexicans a reason to celebrate for a change and, for once, a bit of positive press internationally.
At least for a day or two ...
Twenty-eight were killed in one Mazatlan prison that, according to authorities, housed nacrotraffickers from differing cartels.
In Zitacuaro, Michoacan police were involved in a shoot-out that left 12 policemen and a number of criminals dead.
In the picturesque tourist town of Taxco, Guerrero, known as the silver capital of Mexico, 15 were killed Tuesday.
And in Nayarit, 30 murders in three days have caused state authorities to end the school term early. Schools will finish Friday.
It's been the bloodiest week in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon took office in 2006.
Calderon himself issued a rousing 10-minute Message to the Nation Tuesday imploring Mexicans to support his government’s fight against criminal networks.
What's this got to do with football?
Well, a victory against France would give Mexicans a reason to celebrate for a change and, for once, a bit of positive press internationally.
At least for a day or two ...
Chicharito seeks to exorcise grandad's pain against France
The scene was the 1954 World Cup in Switzerland.
Mexico, who had never won a point in any previous World Cup, were playing France.
After a 5-0 hammering against Brazil, the Mexican team were determined to get a result but went into the changing room at halftime 2-0 down.
The team, instead of arguing amongst each other, sat down and talked. The coach told them that they are humans just like the French team and have nothing to lose.
Bang. 2-1 and Mexico are on top. The pressure continues and one Tomas Balcazar scores the equaliser 5 minutes before the 90 are up. Cue wild celebrations.
"Our tears of joy turned into tears of sadness" relates Tomas Balcazar, who tells the story with such enthusiasm and detail it could've been yesterday.
Mexican hearts were broken when the referee gave a dubious handball against Mexico in the last minute. France won 3-2.
Tomorrow/today against France, Balcazar, 78, will be again present at the World Cup. This time it will be to support his grandson, Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez in Mexico's second game after a disappointing opener.
The parallel is obvious. Balcazar, if you speak to him, is clearly still hurt by France's last minute goal; there could be no better cure than his grandson getting the winner against the French tomorrow.
Thanks to Tomas Balcazar for sharing his memories of World Cup 1954.
Mexico, who had never won a point in any previous World Cup, were playing France.
After a 5-0 hammering against Brazil, the Mexican team were determined to get a result but went into the changing room at halftime 2-0 down.
The team, instead of arguing amongst each other, sat down and talked. The coach told them that they are humans just like the French team and have nothing to lose.
Bang. 2-1 and Mexico are on top. The pressure continues and one Tomas Balcazar scores the equaliser 5 minutes before the 90 are up. Cue wild celebrations.
"Our tears of joy turned into tears of sadness" relates Tomas Balcazar, who tells the story with such enthusiasm and detail it could've been yesterday.
Mexican hearts were broken when the referee gave a dubious handball against Mexico in the last minute. France won 3-2.
Tomorrow/today against France, Balcazar, 78, will be again present at the World Cup. This time it will be to support his grandson, Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez in Mexico's second game after a disappointing opener.
The parallel is obvious. Balcazar, if you speak to him, is clearly still hurt by France's last minute goal; there could be no better cure than his grandson getting the winner against the French tomorrow.
Thanks to Tomas Balcazar for sharing his memories of World Cup 1954.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
The curious case of Andres Guardado
Much of the talk this week on the long TV shows debating the Mexican team in the World Cup has been whether Chicharito will start in place of Guillermo Franco. The latest is that most pundits are thinking it will be Franco again.
But not far behind in talk time is the case of Andres Guardado, the Guadalajara tearaway that set aside family problems in his youth and rose through the ranks of Mexican football like a hot knife through butter.
Guardado himself admits he didn't take football too seriously until he was 15 and living with his brother but after he did, everything seemed to come easy for the curly haired left-footer.
After making his professional debut for Guadalajara club Atlas aged 18 in August 2005, Guardado enjoyed a wirlwind year.
Four months later, in December, he found himself in the Mexico squad to face Hungary. He then became the surprise choice in Ricardo La Volpe's Mexico squad for the World Cup in Germany in 2006.
La Volpe picked Guardado to make his World Cup debut against Argentina in the Round of 16. In 12 months Guardado had gone from a youth prospect waiting his chance at Atlas to starting in the World Cup knockout stages.European clubs sniffed around. Real Madrid and PSV Eindhoven were thought to be front of the queue but Atlas held out and eventually sold Guardado to Deportivo La Coruña of Spain for a reported 7 million Euros in 2007.
Back at Atlas he was handed a special award and given his own sendoff game.
Since then Guardado, who has nicknames like "the little prince" and "the wonderkid" and married his local Guadalajara sweetheart before the Germany World Cup, has gone on to play in the UEFA Cup, has become one of Deportivo's best players and has been a regular for Mexico ever since. The downside has been a couple of injuries, but none that serious.
So what has happened? Why didn't he start against South Africa?
The 4-3-3 formation Mexico played doesn't help. Guardado is most comfortable on the left of midfield in a 4-4-2, but that can't explain everything.
Fast, determined and blessed with the quality that has got him some interest from clubs in the Premier League and Germany, Guardado must start for Mexico.
If Aguirre starts with a 4-3-3, then put him on the left of the forward 3 in place of Vela. Vela has not exactly shone in the friendlies and failed too in the game against South Africa. Since leaving the other Guadalajara team, Chivas, for Arsenal, he's hardly played.
Who set up the Mexican goal against South Africa with a quality ball in?
In Guardado, Mexico have a young, experienced player who isn't flustered by big games and pressure. It would be a waste not to start him against France.
Chicharito for the 500-peso bill!
There's a Facebook group/page for everything these days but the one I stumbled upon today was quite funny: "Chicharito for the 500-peso bill."
The gist of the group is that the head of "the little pea" should replace that of Mexico's first indigenous president and liberal reformer, Benito Juarez.
Although the group only has around 700 'likes,' there is apparently another wanting Chicharito's head on the 20-peso bill that has almost 100,000 'likes.' I can't for the life of me find it.
The name of the group in Spanish is "EL Chicharito para los billetes de 500!!!"
Should Chicharito net a couple of goals against France on Thursday, expect the popularity of the page to shoot up.
The group can be found here.
Monday, 14 June 2010
Media roundup:
1) Chicharito and Cuauhtemoc Blanco chatted at least twice during training, says Record, following allegations that one or two sharp words were passed between the two after Friday's draw against South Africa.
2) Players' families visited the training complex and hotel with Blanco's mother saying her son doesn't get the respect he deserves with the national team. The players were serenaded by mariachis during a slap-up meal.
3) Chicharito's dad and member of Mexico's 1986 World Cup squad, Javier 'Chicharo' Hernandez, said his son is ready to play and added: "I'm sure he won't let anyone down." Famous for his big and very close family, Chicharito's sister, uncle and aunt, mum, dad, granddad and grandma were all there in South Africa to see him.
4) France's Eric Abidal reckons Mexico are better than Uruguay and expects a difficult game. France will go all out for a win, he says.
2) Players' families visited the training complex and hotel with Blanco's mother saying her son doesn't get the respect he deserves with the national team. The players were serenaded by mariachis during a slap-up meal.
3) Chicharito's dad and member of Mexico's 1986 World Cup squad, Javier 'Chicharo' Hernandez, said his son is ready to play and added: "I'm sure he won't let anyone down." Famous for his big and very close family, Chicharito's sister, uncle and aunt, mum, dad, granddad and grandma were all there in South Africa to see him.
4) France's Eric Abidal reckons Mexico are better than Uruguay and expects a difficult game. France will go all out for a win, he says.
Goalkeepers train with American footballs
The theory US values and customs are encroaching more and more on traditional Mexican norms got further hard evidence today with photos being released of Mexican goalkeepers practicing for Thursday's big game by throwing around American footballs.
While the American version of football is becoming increasingly popular south of the border, nobody knew that the fever was prevalent within Mexico's 'soccer' team.
Jokes aside, the justification is that the flight path of an American football isn't too different from the Jabulani World Cup ball that is causing so much media fuss and goalkeeper misery.
Personally, I think it might be more useful to practice with the same kind of ball to be used on Thursday, not an oval shaped one; but I'm no expert on these things.
While the American version of football is becoming increasingly popular south of the border, nobody knew that the fever was prevalent within Mexico's 'soccer' team.
Jokes aside, the justification is that the flight path of an American football isn't too different from the Jabulani World Cup ball that is causing so much media fuss and goalkeeper misery.
Personally, I think it might be more useful to practice with the same kind of ball to be used on Thursday, not an oval shaped one; but I'm no expert on these things.
Sunday, 13 June 2010
Media roundup: Guardado plea and Chicharito/Cuau handbags
The 'big' story of the day is that Andres Guardado says Mexico will "play until death," to get past the group stages.
The midfielder also said Mexico "aren't scared of anyone."
Also prominent in the papers is the worrying fact that Mexico have never beaten France.
Guillermo Franco reckons Mexico need to be more forceful while everyone else is concerned about the plethora of wasted chances, of which Franco was more guilty than most against South Africa.
Which brings us to the sports newspaper Record. They ran a story in which every single one of their pundits want Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez to start in place of Franco against France on Thursday.
Ex-footballer Carlos Reinoso wrote: "For me it should be Hernandez starting because he's a little different, scores goals and is quick. Speed is very important at this level, even more so because Mexico is a young and fast team. It seemed Guille (Franco) wasn't up to speed (against South Africa), while Chicharito is lethal."
In other Chicharito news, there were suggestions that the Guadalajara-native and huge Chivas fan was on the receiving end of some harsh words from Mexico City-native and America legend Cuauhtemoc Blanco.
With almost opposing personalities (Chicharito the quiet, humble, family-based young man and Blanco the outgoing, party-loving TV show host), it's not difficult to think they wouldn't get on so well. The huge Mexico City - Guadalajara, capital v province rivalry is famous throughout Mexico.
Defender Hector Moreno said it was nothing and that it wasn't even talked about in the dressing room after the game.
The photos seem to suggest it was media fuss over nothing. Decide for yourselves. A video can be found here.
Finally, Mexico's man-of-the-match against South Africa, Giovani Dos Santos, is on the list of potential Best Young Player at the World Cup. Thomas Muller of Germany and Denmark's Simon Kjaer are other names that stand out. The list is made up of players born after January 1, 1989 and that are making their World Cup debuts.
The midfielder also said Mexico "aren't scared of anyone."
Also prominent in the papers is the worrying fact that Mexico have never beaten France.
Guillermo Franco reckons Mexico need to be more forceful while everyone else is concerned about the plethora of wasted chances, of which Franco was more guilty than most against South Africa.
Which brings us to the sports newspaper Record. They ran a story in which every single one of their pundits want Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez to start in place of Franco against France on Thursday.
Ex-footballer Carlos Reinoso wrote: "For me it should be Hernandez starting because he's a little different, scores goals and is quick. Speed is very important at this level, even more so because Mexico is a young and fast team. It seemed Guille (Franco) wasn't up to speed (against South Africa), while Chicharito is lethal."
In other Chicharito news, there were suggestions that the Guadalajara-native and huge Chivas fan was on the receiving end of some harsh words from Mexico City-native and America legend Cuauhtemoc Blanco.With almost opposing personalities (Chicharito the quiet, humble, family-based young man and Blanco the outgoing, party-loving TV show host), it's not difficult to think they wouldn't get on so well. The huge Mexico City - Guadalajara, capital v province rivalry is famous throughout Mexico.
Defender Hector Moreno said it was nothing and that it wasn't even talked about in the dressing room after the game.
The photos seem to suggest it was media fuss over nothing. Decide for yourselves. A video can be found here.
Finally, Mexico's man-of-the-match against South Africa, Giovani Dos Santos, is on the list of potential Best Young Player at the World Cup. Thomas Muller of Germany and Denmark's Simon Kjaer are other names that stand out. The list is made up of players born after January 1, 1989 and that are making their World Cup debuts.
Friday, 11 June 2010
Disappointing - Mexico 1 - 1 South Africa
While Mexico may not be out the World Cup by any stretch of the imagination, today's result leaves them with an uphill struggle.
Many pundits, bloggers, Twitterers and others are saying Mexico have everything to play for etcetera etcetera but Uruguay and France will almost certainly beat South Africa. That leaves a very difficult route to the last 16 for Mexico.
For the majority of the first half, Mexico dominated and one of the top teams would've been 2-0 up at the break. In the end Mexico paid for Franco's three glaring misses. Whether a striker who hasn't played for three weeks should of started is sure to be a talking point in tomorrow's paper.
Maybe this is a harsh assessment but South Africa are ranked 83rd in the world and the Mexico team and are used to playing in some really hostile stadiums. If you don't believe that check out YouTube clips when Mexico play in Guatemala and Honduras.
Of course, it should of been different for Mexico, they had their chances to "kill off" South Africa like Aguirre said after. But, when all is said and done, it's the same old story as in the friendly matches: all bark and no bite. And, it's becoming very frustrating.
Many pundits, bloggers, Twitterers and others are saying Mexico have everything to play for etcetera etcetera but Uruguay and France will almost certainly beat South Africa. That leaves a very difficult route to the last 16 for Mexico.
For the majority of the first half, Mexico dominated and one of the top teams would've been 2-0 up at the break. In the end Mexico paid for Franco's three glaring misses. Whether a striker who hasn't played for three weeks should of started is sure to be a talking point in tomorrow's paper.
Maybe this is a harsh assessment but South Africa are ranked 83rd in the world and the Mexico team and are used to playing in some really hostile stadiums. If you don't believe that check out YouTube clips when Mexico play in Guatemala and Honduras.
Of course, it should of been different for Mexico, they had their chances to "kill off" South Africa like Aguirre said after. But, when all is said and done, it's the same old story as in the friendly matches: all bark and no bite. And, it's becoming very frustrating.
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
Three young Mexicans to keep an eye on
Andres GuardadoKnown as “the little prince,” the 23-year-old Deportivo La Coruña winger is almost certainly moving on this summer and will be hoping to catch the eyes of watching Premier League bosses. Aston Villa and Blackburn are reportedly interested, as well as Steve McClaren’s Wolfsburg and Valencia.
Was Mexico’s best player by some distance in the recent friendlies in the United States, although started on the bench for most the friendlies in Europe. Guardado is quick, inventive, a great passer and can also score. Shouldn’t be out of his depth especially as his agent says he’s looking for Champions League football next year. Price will rise a lot if he continues his recent form.Easily recognisable due to his shoulder length hair.
May start as sub depending on team formation but will be hoping to make an impact.
Javier ‘Chicharito’ HernandezHernandez’ granddad played in the 1954 World Cup and gave a succinct assessment of his grandson’s immediate future: he has to play well coming up to the World Cup so he has some momentum when he arrives at Manchester United.
Look for his excellent movement, boundless enthusiasm and eye for goal. Also has a massive jump.
Again, may start the competition as sub, although it would be a retrogressive move from Mexico boss Aguirre to start with Guillermo Franco.
Giovani Dos SantosDon't judge Giovani by his stint in England. In Mexico he's highly respected and a lot of weight rests on his 21-year-old shoulders. Tricky, fast and with his future in Turkey in doubt, Giovani can re-ignite his young career in South Africa.
Coach Aguirre believes he's the spark that can propel Mexico out of the group stage.
Needs to work on scoring more goals and his final ball but he's one of those players that when he gets the ball, you expect something to happen.
Kids allowed to watch opening game in schools
You can imagine the teacher now on Thursday afternoon at home time.
"Children, tomorrow don't forget to bring your pencilcase, exercise books ... and a 50" plasma television. Off you go now."
The Public Education Secretary (SEP) has caved in and will allow schools in Mexico to show the South Africa v Mexico game this Friday. Kids are also being asked to bring along a television to put in their classroom, because most Mexican classrooms don't have one.
Authorities are smoothing over the decision by asking teachers to include football related material in classes over the coming month, especially in the subject of geography.
The Chamber of Commerce in Mexico City is advising employers to show the game in workplaces, "to evade mass absenteeism."
A recent poll suggest 70 percent of Mexicans will watch the game, which perhaps has an added importance here due to wave after wave of negativity in the international press over the last 18 months. A positive result for Mexico would be a breath of fresh air.
Many offices will be holding special events for teambuilding; bringing in food, betting (quinielas), allowing workers to wear green shirts.
Businesses too are keen to capitalise on the World Cup with a host of offers available.
Burger King will give away a free cheeseburger with every large drink purchased the day after Mexico win a game.
Sam’s Club promises to reimburse the full cost of televisions purchased if Mexico wins five games in the tournament, the equivalent of reaching the semi-final – an unlikely occurrence, most experts agree. And Toyota, perhaps giving a little more hope, will knock one monthly payment off credit purchases of their Camry, RAV4 and Corolla models if Mexico get through the group stages, which is quite possible.
Restaurants and bars in Guadalajara, Chapala and Puerto Vallarta are expecting an increase in sales of between 10 and 15 percent. Over 3,000 in Guadalajara alone have already been granted licenses to open early for the inaugural game.
The biggest teambuilding and money making event of all would be Mexico reaching the quarter finals.
Monday, 7 June 2010
Predicting Mexico's fate isn't that easy
With just three days left until Mexico v South Africa kicks off, the time is about right to assess just where exactly Mexico are at.
Except, it's not that easy. Against Italy last time out Mexico played like a team with a genuine chance of causing an upset against one of the "grandes." But with the pressure on and with half the likely starting eleven under 25, there has to be some caution.
A forward three of Giovani Dos Santos, Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez and Carlos Vela, with a combined age of just 63, is the future of Mexican football and an extremely exciting prospect. This competition may have come a little too early though.
If the friendly games are anything to go by, the above three names will be key. Missed chances in the games against England and Holland led to defeats when Mexico were arguably the better team.
Behind them Mexico are extremely solid, with the experienced Gerardo Torrado and Rafa Marquez the spine of the team. No team will expect an easy game against Mexico with those two present.
Coach Javier Aguirre is notorious for keeping his likely line-up close to his chest and the formation may change between 3-5-2, 4-3-3 and a 4-4-2 as the tournament progresses and depending on the opposition. Certainly that's what the friendly warm-up games point to. Either that or Aguirre didn't have a clue as to his best formation, as some Mexican pundits believe. The key to the formation changes is captain Rafa Marquez who has alternated between centre-back and a defensive midfield role.
Expect to see Cuauhtemoc Blanco come on for the last 20-30 minutes in every game. 'El Cuau' is still very much loved in Mexico and can provide that little bit of magic. At 37 and visibly overweight for a player at this level, his role will be restricted to cameos from the bench.
Prediction: Round of 16. Why?
Mexico still lack a couple of players of genuine, proven class. A second-placed finish in Group A will likely see them play Argentina, where they will surely fall. If they can win Group A, they have a good chance to get to the Quarter Finals for the first time outside of Mexico.
This blog's starting line-up (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Luis Michel
Defence: Efrain Juarez, Ricardo Osorio, Javier 'Maza' Rodriguez, Carlos Salcido
Midfield: Giovani, Rafa Marquez, Gerardo Torrado, Andres Guardado
Forwards: Chicharito, Carlos Vela
NB. Likely starting line-up against South Africa will probably include Oscar Perez in goal, and a 4-3-3 formation with Giovani joining Chicharito and Vela in the forward three.
Goalkeepers: I think Luis Michel, although he lacks experience at this level, he has been exceptional for a number of years now for Chivas and deserves his chance. He's also very professional. Aguirre, however, picked 37-year-old Perez in Japan/S.Korea in 2002 and will probably retain faith in him, despite his low stature. Guillermo Ochoa has been dodgy the last few months after playing in almost all the qualifying games.
Why 4-4-2? Mexico look more solid, especially with Marquez and Torrado together in the centre of the park giving the ball to one of Guardado, Giovani, Vela and Chicharito.
Except, it's not that easy. Against Italy last time out Mexico played like a team with a genuine chance of causing an upset against one of the "grandes." But with the pressure on and with half the likely starting eleven under 25, there has to be some caution.
A forward three of Giovani Dos Santos, Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez and Carlos Vela, with a combined age of just 63, is the future of Mexican football and an extremely exciting prospect. This competition may have come a little too early though.
If the friendly games are anything to go by, the above three names will be key. Missed chances in the games against England and Holland led to defeats when Mexico were arguably the better team.
Behind them Mexico are extremely solid, with the experienced Gerardo Torrado and Rafa Marquez the spine of the team. No team will expect an easy game against Mexico with those two present.
Coach Javier Aguirre is notorious for keeping his likely line-up close to his chest and the formation may change between 3-5-2, 4-3-3 and a 4-4-2 as the tournament progresses and depending on the opposition. Certainly that's what the friendly warm-up games point to. Either that or Aguirre didn't have a clue as to his best formation, as some Mexican pundits believe. The key to the formation changes is captain Rafa Marquez who has alternated between centre-back and a defensive midfield role.
Expect to see Cuauhtemoc Blanco come on for the last 20-30 minutes in every game. 'El Cuau' is still very much loved in Mexico and can provide that little bit of magic. At 37 and visibly overweight for a player at this level, his role will be restricted to cameos from the bench.
Prediction: Round of 16. Why?
Mexico still lack a couple of players of genuine, proven class. A second-placed finish in Group A will likely see them play Argentina, where they will surely fall. If they can win Group A, they have a good chance to get to the Quarter Finals for the first time outside of Mexico.
This blog's starting line-up (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Luis Michel
Defence: Efrain Juarez, Ricardo Osorio, Javier 'Maza' Rodriguez, Carlos Salcido
Midfield: Giovani, Rafa Marquez, Gerardo Torrado, Andres Guardado
Forwards: Chicharito, Carlos Vela
NB. Likely starting line-up against South Africa will probably include Oscar Perez in goal, and a 4-3-3 formation with Giovani joining Chicharito and Vela in the forward three.
Goalkeepers: I think Luis Michel, although he lacks experience at this level, he has been exceptional for a number of years now for Chivas and deserves his chance. He's also very professional. Aguirre, however, picked 37-year-old Perez in Japan/S.Korea in 2002 and will probably retain faith in him, despite his low stature. Guillermo Ochoa has been dodgy the last few months after playing in almost all the qualifying games.
Why 4-4-2? Mexico look more solid, especially with Marquez and Torrado together in the centre of the park giving the ball to one of Guardado, Giovani, Vela and Chicharito.
May the Virgin be with you
Archbishop of Mexico Norberto Rivera has backed the national team to triumph in South Africa and is calling on God and the Virgin Mary to help the team.
"We Mexicans feel joyful and in solidarity with our brothers that are representing our country and, although not all of us can be helping physically in the stadium, from here we will will their triumphs," Rivera wrote in the Church's magazine.
The Archbishop also said that sport possesses a spiritual side that motivates people to engage in healthy competition, better themselves and happiness.
Rivera also wished for the best for the national team "with all my heart."
Green referee gets opening game
FIFA have announced that the referee for the opening game of the World Cup - Mexico v South Africa - will be 32-year-old Uzbeki Ravshan Irmatov, the youngest referee in the World Cup. Irmatov will be making his World Cup debut June 11.
The Mexican press was already rife with suggestions that home support could influence the officials.
The biggest game Irmatov has refereed in was the 2008 World Club Championship final between Manchester United and Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito de Ecuador.
FIFA, in their wisdom, decided against chosing a referee with a few years Champions League experience for what will be the game that will set the tone for the World Cup.
Would a little common sense in these matters be too much to ask?
The Mexican team have been dignified in their response, Jonny Magallon saying the team are concentrating on other things.
Nevertheless, a few facts must be of concern. Out of the 54 international games (mainly in Asia) that Irmatov has taken charge of, he's awarded the home team six penalties and the away team three. Irmatov has pulled the red card out of his pocket five times for players from the home side and ten times for the away team. That's a
2:1 ratio on both accounts.
The Mexican press was already rife with suggestions that home support could influence the officials.
The biggest game Irmatov has refereed in was the 2008 World Club Championship final between Manchester United and Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito de Ecuador.
FIFA, in their wisdom, decided against chosing a referee with a few years Champions League experience for what will be the game that will set the tone for the World Cup.
Would a little common sense in these matters be too much to ask?
The Mexican team have been dignified in their response, Jonny Magallon saying the team are concentrating on other things.
Nevertheless, a few facts must be of concern. Out of the 54 international games (mainly in Asia) that Irmatov has taken charge of, he's awarded the home team six penalties and the away team three. Irmatov has pulled the red card out of his pocket five times for players from the home side and ten times for the away team. That's a
2:1 ratio on both accounts.
Sunday, 6 June 2010
Pundit's corner: Chicharito's dad
During a visit to the Guadalajara home of Chicharito's family, this blog got the views of Chicharito's dad and former Mexican international Javier 'Chicharo' Hernandez on Mexico's chances in the World Cup. More snippets from the Chicharito family will follow in the next few days.
Javier 'Chicharo' Hernandez:
How far will Mexico get?
They have a strong chance of getting to the Quarter Finals. If they pass through the first round, they’ll go far.
The first game is key. If they win the first game there’s some margin for error later.
What about exact scores?
For me, the results will be Mexico 3 – 1 South Africa, then Mexico 2 – 1 France with Giovani and Chicharito getting the goals and finally Mexico 1 – 1Uruguay. Chicharito will get three goals in the group stages, one in every game.
And how is Chicharito doing?
He’s well. He’s working hard and happier now the team is winning, especially after the last game (against Italy) following the defeats against Holland and England.
Javier 'Chicharo' Hernandez:How far will Mexico get?
They have a strong chance of getting to the Quarter Finals. If they pass through the first round, they’ll go far.
The first game is key. If they win the first game there’s some margin for error later.
What about exact scores?
For me, the results will be Mexico 3 – 1 South Africa, then Mexico 2 – 1 France with Giovani and Chicharito getting the goals and finally Mexico 1 – 1Uruguay. Chicharito will get three goals in the group stages, one in every game.
And how is Chicharito doing?
He’s well. He’s working hard and happier now the team is winning, especially after the last game (against Italy) following the defeats against Holland and England.
Saturday, 5 June 2010
Aguirre says his beloved Mexico is no longer (BEEEEEP)
Polemic Mexico coach Javier Aguirre reopened the wounds of a few months ago following a TV advert in which he states, "I love Mexico." ((See it here))
It seems harmless and normal; the national team boss taking part in Initiative Mexico to promote the country's big Independence Bicentennial/Revolution Centennial celebrations.
But one can't help but think Aguirre isn't 100 percent sincere about predictions he makes that the "safe, just and prosperous" Mexico is possible.
It wasn't long ago in February that Aguirre was using distinctly different words to describe his country. A swear word beginning with 'F' was the one that stood out.
During an interview with a Spanish radio station, Aguirre inexplicitly lost all tact. Here are some of the quotes.
"How's Mexico doing?" asks the Spanish radio presenter.
"F(Beep)," replies Aguirre. "Really F(Beep)?" continues the presenter. "F(Beep), F(Beep)" unequivocally replies 'El Vasco,' as Aguirre is known.
"(Narcos - drug gang members) have permeated society, without doubt," explains Aguirre. "Twenty or 25 years ago when I was still playing football narco was there, but they sorted out their problems between themselves. Now if you walk in the street at ease, you don't know who'll hit you in the middle. Of course I'm known by people and respected but one never knows."
"It's like the Caceres (ex Argentina international shot in Argentina) and Cabañas (shot in the head in a Mexico City bar) who was known and liked ... I take my precautions, my older kids live in Madrid and I went with my wife and the little one and we've been there about a year."
He continued after being asked if a return to the Spanish La Liga was on the cards after the World Cup: "Yes, without doubt it's my first option, finish the World Cup and come directly here (Spain). If there is nothing here? We will see in England, Italy. I speak good English."
The son of Spanish migrants to Mexico, Aguirre's swinging back and forth has made him a less than popular figure in the Mexican media. Imagine if Fabio Capello or U.S. coach Bob Bradley had said something similar. They'd probably be out a job.
It seems harmless and normal; the national team boss taking part in Initiative Mexico to promote the country's big Independence Bicentennial/Revolution Centennial celebrations.
But one can't help but think Aguirre isn't 100 percent sincere about predictions he makes that the "safe, just and prosperous" Mexico is possible.
It wasn't long ago in February that Aguirre was using distinctly different words to describe his country. A swear word beginning with 'F' was the one that stood out.
During an interview with a Spanish radio station, Aguirre inexplicitly lost all tact. Here are some of the quotes.
"How's Mexico doing?" asks the Spanish radio presenter.
"F(Beep)," replies Aguirre. "Really F(Beep)?" continues the presenter. "F(Beep), F(Beep)" unequivocally replies 'El Vasco,' as Aguirre is known.
"(Narcos - drug gang members) have permeated society, without doubt," explains Aguirre. "Twenty or 25 years ago when I was still playing football narco was there, but they sorted out their problems between themselves. Now if you walk in the street at ease, you don't know who'll hit you in the middle. Of course I'm known by people and respected but one never knows."
"It's like the Caceres (ex Argentina international shot in Argentina) and Cabañas (shot in the head in a Mexico City bar) who was known and liked ... I take my precautions, my older kids live in Madrid and I went with my wife and the little one and we've been there about a year."
He continued after being asked if a return to the Spanish La Liga was on the cards after the World Cup: "Yes, without doubt it's my first option, finish the World Cup and come directly here (Spain). If there is nothing here? We will see in England, Italy. I speak good English."
The son of Spanish migrants to Mexico, Aguirre's swinging back and forth has made him a less than popular figure in the Mexican media. Imagine if Fabio Capello or U.S. coach Bob Bradley had said something similar. They'd probably be out a job.
Thursday, 3 June 2010
MEXICO 2 - 1 Italy
Mexico made the ears of the football world prick up Thursday with a 2-1 victory over current world champions Italy.
El Tri, playing in their all black 2nd strip, looked stronger, more cohesive and hungrier than the lacklustre Italians and fully deserved their win.
Indeed, the margin of victory could've been wider but for some shoddy finishing and the referee failing to spot a blatant penalty in Mexico's favour.
The only negative came with Italy's goal, again conceded from a set piece.
Perhaps more important than the result were the performances of key players Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, who put through a beautiful through ball for Alberto 'Venado' Medina for Mexico's second.
Blanco had been on the end of quite a bit of stick in recent days, firstly for getting pictured smoking and secondly for his less than impressive displays over the last few weeks.
Vela scored Mexico's first goal and celebrated by doing a 'shhing' motion (see here), most likely aimed at Mexico's press that have been criticizing his recent performances. The Arsenal man at last looked like a player at ease with this level of international football and was one of Mexico's best players.
For Giovani, the game was the first since learning his brother Jonathan Dos Santos had been axed from the squad. Beforehand, there had even been suggestions Giovani was ready to leave the squad.
"He's very unmotivated, I think he was worse than me," Jonathan told the press in Barcelona just before the game kicked off. "He wanted to leave the squad. I talked to him and he's hurt. His future is being decided and he has to play in the World Cup. I know he will do very well and I wish him all the luck in the world."
The exquisite pass over the top for Vela's goal came as a timely reminder of how vital Giovani is for Mexico and what a loss it would be if he had decided to ditch the squad. Coach Javier Aguirre even said before the Italy game that this is Giovani's World Cup.
Most people in Mexico are in no doubt that if Mexico are to do well in South Africa, Giovani will be a central figure.
Line-up: 1 Óscar Pérez 2 Francisco Rodríguez 5 Ricardo Osorio 3 Carlos Salcido 4 Rafael Márquez 6 Gerardo Torrado 16 Efrain Juárez 11 Carlos Vela 14 Javier Hernandez
17 Giovani Dos Santos
Subs: Pablo Barrera for Rafael Márquez (45) Héctor Moreno for Francisco Rodríguez (69) Cuauhtémoc Blanco for Javier Hernandez (71) Israel Castro for Carlos Vela (83) Andres Guardado for Efrain Juárez (87)
El Tri, playing in their all black 2nd strip, looked stronger, more cohesive and hungrier than the lacklustre Italians and fully deserved their win.
Indeed, the margin of victory could've been wider but for some shoddy finishing and the referee failing to spot a blatant penalty in Mexico's favour.
The only negative came with Italy's goal, again conceded from a set piece.
Perhaps more important than the result were the performances of key players Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, who put through a beautiful through ball for Alberto 'Venado' Medina for Mexico's second.
Blanco had been on the end of quite a bit of stick in recent days, firstly for getting pictured smoking and secondly for his less than impressive displays over the last few weeks.Vela scored Mexico's first goal and celebrated by doing a 'shhing' motion (see here), most likely aimed at Mexico's press that have been criticizing his recent performances. The Arsenal man at last looked like a player at ease with this level of international football and was one of Mexico's best players.
For Giovani, the game was the first since learning his brother Jonathan Dos Santos had been axed from the squad. Beforehand, there had even been suggestions Giovani was ready to leave the squad.
"He's very unmotivated, I think he was worse than me," Jonathan told the press in Barcelona just before the game kicked off. "He wanted to leave the squad. I talked to him and he's hurt. His future is being decided and he has to play in the World Cup. I know he will do very well and I wish him all the luck in the world."
The exquisite pass over the top for Vela's goal came as a timely reminder of how vital Giovani is for Mexico and what a loss it would be if he had decided to ditch the squad. Coach Javier Aguirre even said before the Italy game that this is Giovani's World Cup.
Most people in Mexico are in no doubt that if Mexico are to do well in South Africa, Giovani will be a central figure.
Line-up: 1 Óscar Pérez 2 Francisco Rodríguez 5 Ricardo Osorio 3 Carlos Salcido 4 Rafael Márquez 6 Gerardo Torrado 16 Efrain Juárez 11 Carlos Vela 14 Javier Hernandez
17 Giovani Dos Santos
Subs: Pablo Barrera for Rafael Márquez (45) Héctor Moreno for Francisco Rodríguez (69) Cuauhtémoc Blanco for Javier Hernandez (71) Israel Castro for Carlos Vela (83) Andres Guardado for Efrain Juárez (87)
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