Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Ballon War! Ronaldo & Blatter do battle over Messi comments

Sepp Blatter caused a rumble in world football on Tuesday when his comments about Cristiano Ronaldo were put under the spotlight.

Speaking at the end of last week, the Fifa president admitted that he preferred Lionel Messi to the Real Madrid attacker, who he claimed "spent more time at the hairdresser's".

Ronaldo hit back with a Facebook status which hinted at institutional favouritism towards Messi and his club, Barcelona, while Madrid president Florentino Perez wrote an open letter which demonstrated his displeasure.

Blatter has since apologised for his remarks by replying to Perez's letter and also Tweeting Ronaldo's official account.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013 09:00

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Platini and Blatter cram the World Cup full

With the European Championships soon to expand from 16 teams to 24, the World Cup could be set to receive similar treatment.

Fifa president Sepp Blatter is on record as wanting more Asian and African teams to be represented at the planet's biggest tournament and Uefa head honcho Michel Platini suggested on Monday that the finals could be stretched to 40 teams to make room.

There are more international teams around than there used to be but it could still be a tight fit if football's administrators get their way and push Russia 2018 to another level.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013 12:48

Hart & Nastasic gift wrap Chelsea's winner

Sunday's clash at Stamford Bridge appeared to be heading for a tie as Chelsea and Manchester City were both holding firm in the final stages.

But one hopeful long punt towards City's goal triggered Joe Hart to sprint out from his area, only for Matija Nastasic to head the ball past his own goalkeeper, which allowed Fernando Torres to tap in the winner and send Jose Mourinho crowd surfing.
Monday, October 28, 2013 12:00

Bale at Neymar's mercy after Clasico clash

Neymar and Gareth Bale stepped onto the Camp Nou turf for their first taste of a Clasico encounter on Saturday evening, billed as the main supporting cast for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

It turned out to be a frustrating night for the Real Madrid star, however, with Bale slicing a couple of efforts high and wide before being hooked by Carlo Ancelotti on the hour mark.

For Neymar, it was a different story. The Brazilian sensation got his side well on the way to a 2-1 victory with the opening goal of the game, picking up on Andres Iniesta's ball through to slot into the corner of the net.
Sunday, October 27, 2013 11:00



Saturday, October 26, 2013

Messi and Ronaldo’s last chance to stop Ribery's Ballon d’Or pursuit

Saturday's El Clasico has extra significance for both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as the duo look to halt Franck Ribery's pursuit of the Ballon d'Or.

The France international's scintillating form inspired Bayern Munich in their treble-winning campaign last season and so far this term the 30-year-old has picked up where he left off, which makes him a strong contender to scoop Fifa's highest individual accolade ahead of the Barcelona star and the Real Madrid ace.

Will Messi or Ronaldo be able to put in a Ballon d'Or-winning display at Camp Nou?

Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic & Ribery leave trail of destruction

Wednesday marked another string of scintillating displays in the Champions League, the best of which came from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Sweden international notched four of Paris Saint-Germain's five goals in a comfortable win over Anderlecht, one of which, a 30-yard thunderbolt, will be a frontrunner for the best strike in the competition this season.

Elsewhere, Franck Ribery netted twice in Bayern Munich's 5-0 rout against Viktoria Plzen, while Cristiano Ronaldo's double fired Real Madrid to a 2-1 victory over Juventus.
Thursday, October 24, 2013 12:00


Friday, October 25, 2013

Neymar & Co watch Pepe horror show

Neymar is set to make his El Clasico bow as Barcelona host Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Saturday and the Brazilian insists he is suitably prepared for the inevitable threat posed by Pepe.

The 30-year-old has been involved in his fair share of feisty encounters with Barcelona players, the most notable being when he stamped on Lionel Messi's hand in January 2012.

But Neymar claims he is up to speed with the defender's tricks after he received a video of Pepe's antics from the Brazil Football Confederation before his nation's friendly against Portugal in September.
Friday, October 25, 2013 12:00

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Ferguson’s pen mightier than the sword

Former Manchester United players, managers and referees were among those on the receiving end of stinging criticism in Sir Alex Ferguson's newly released autobiography.

The 71-year-old claimed relief swept the dressing room the day Roy Keane left Old Trafford, described Owen Hargreaves as one of the most disappointing signings of his career, and labelled Rafa Benitez a 'silly man' for his infamous 'facts' rant.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013 12:00

Ibrahimovic vs Ronaldo - who will miss the World Cup?

Following Monday's World Cup play-off draw which saw Sweden paired with Portugal, we already know one superstar will not will heading to Brazil next summer.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of the game's current greats, are both in danger of missing out on international football's pinnacle competition.

Let us know who you would prefer to see at the World Cup.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013 12:00

Wenger the pinball wizard

It has already been labelled the goal of the season and there will be few Premier League observers up in arms if the award was doled out now to Jack Wilshere after Arsenal's phenomenal opening goal in their 4-1 win over Norwich.

The combination play was typical of Arsene Wenger's side but the improvisation and flicks by Olivier Giroud and Wilshere made for a magnificent one-touch goal.

Santi Cazorla was involved somewhere down the line and there were appeals for offside but such was the speed of the move, it is still difficult to piece together what happened.

Pass, pass, flick, flick, pass, shot, goal seems to do the trick.
Sunday, October 20, 2013 08:16

Monday, October 21, 2013

Rampant Rossi trips up Old Lady

Juventus may have thought they had another Serie A victory in the bag when 2-0 up against Fiorentina with 25 minutes remaining. But oh no.

A Giuseppe Rossi hat-trick and a further strike from Joaquin handed the Viola a famous and much-celebrated win against one of their most hated foes.

It is a remarkable return from Rossi, who missed over a year with serious knee problems. The Italy striker has scored eight goals in as many matches and looks set to play a major role in his team's fortunes this season.
Monday, October 21, 2013 12:00

Saturday, October 19, 2013

'Tarzan' Puyol swings back into action

Carles Puyol is set to return to action for Barcelona against Osasuna on Saturday.

The club captain is likely to feature for Gerardo Martino's side for the first time this season after recovering from a knee injury.

And Martino is hoping Puyol - nicknamed Tarzan - will quickly get back into the swing of things.

"Puyol's enthusiasm surprises me," Martino said. "He acts as if he's about to make his debut. Seeing him has gotten me all excited too.

"Carles' return is a great joy for the team and even more for him. He couldn't wait to get back."
Saturday, October 19, 2013 12:55

Omar Momani interviews "the Running man" Vu Xuan Tien




In 490 BC, Pheidippides a Greek hero ran from the battle of Marathon to Athens to give the people the news in a story reflects loyalty and sacrifice. Vu Xuan Tien a gunner fan from Vietnam, ran a 5 kilometers on foot to chase the bus of his favorite team on their visit to his country, in a move which let Arsene Wenger that Tien is an inspiration to his team. I made a cartoon on this incidence last July and recently contacted with "the Running Man" and asked him for a special interview which he agreed.

1 - Can you give us a short brief on you?
My name is Vu Xuan Tien, I was born in 6th May, 1993 and I’m the last year student of Pharmacy Central College. I became a fan of Arsenal at the age of 5, I think I was effected by my grandfather and my father. All members of our family love Arsenal and Professor Arsene Wenger.

 2 - When you met Arsenal stars in the bus, were you surprised of their characteristic?
Certainly. I was so surprised because the players look tall and muscular, especially friendly. I was happy when Professor Wenger smiled at me. That was fantastic!!!


3 - Who is the best gunner player to consider as a buddy?
All the players are buddies ‘because I can feel their spirit, their passion for Arsenal.

4 - Where there any funny or bizarre moments?
When I was invited to get in the bus, they made applause and asked me to name the players. I named all the players (in the first and second squad).

5 - If Wenger asked for your advice what would you advice him?
 My advice? It’s very simple: “We all love Arsenal and always support the club even they had 8 years without any trophy and I think Arsenal will achieve triple this season for their endeavor.


6 - Can Arsenal win trophies this season, especially with the arrive of Ozil?
Yes, I do believe that Arsenal will win triple this season after such a long time of effort and sacrifice. I’m sure this year will be Arsenal’s year. Regarding Ozil, he’s a great player and deserved with what Arsenal spent for. But Arsenal is successful for its consolidation, every player plays important role in the club and that’s the most important.

5 - Who is your favorite Arsenal player at the moment and in history?
It’s Mikel Arteta. I was impressed by Henry and Bergkamp too. They devoted for the success of the club and helped the club get over their difficulties. That’s why I love them.


6 - Do you follow Goal.com news and of course Cartoon of the day, and what was your reaction when you saw a cartoon on you?
Yes, I follow goal.com and I watch cartoon there as well. I’m so happy and excited about a cartoon on me. Thank you so much.


7- If I want to visit Vietnam where do you recommend me to visit and what is the best food?
There are so many nice places and good food to recommend. Just contact me, I will take you at the airport and show you around to nice places and try delicious foods.


And I will of course J

Tien told me also that he is been invited by Danish Ambassador John Nielsen, and he just joined in a mount marathon competition in Sapa town, 42km challenging distance together with many professionals from other countries. Tien the Pheidippides of Arsenal will always surprise us J.

Further reading:


 

Friday, October 18, 2013

Bayern chief issues Gotze sponsor warning

Bayern Munich star Mario Gotze has caused a stir between sponsors for the second time since moving to the Allianz Arena.

Upon moving to Bayern, Gotze was pictured wearing clothes made by Nike while holding the club's shirt, made by rival kit manufacturers adidas.

And the former Borussia Dortmund man has again been photographed sporting Nike clothing.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, the Bayern chief executive, has offered some advice to Gotze.

"Maybe [it was a publicity stunt], I do not know," the 58-year-old told Bild. "But maybe there is also an intention by the company to annoy another competitor. I imagine that could be the case.

"But he should not let them abuse him. That would be my advice to him."
Friday, October 18, 2013 12:30

Cassano sees himself in Balotelli

Mario Balotelli may be the current enigmatic poster boy of Italian football, but before the pig-owning, camouflage car-driving AC Milan striker, there was Antonio Cassano.

The 31-year-old's numerous spats with management and senior figures at clubs including Roma, Real Madrid, Sampdoria and AC Milan are well known.

Now at Parma following a single season with Inter, Cassano understands why comparisons might be drawn between him and Balotelli.

"Mario is a great guy," he was quoted as saying by Corriere dello Sport.

"He reminds me a bit of myself when I was 20 years old."
Thursday, October 17, 2013 11:15

Dzeko and the dragons to the mondial

Bosnia and Herzegovina finally qualified to the Brazilian mondial, with the big effort from stars like Dzeko, Pjanic, Spahic and others.

Roy The Redeemer leads England to Rio

England were finally able to celebrate on Tuesday night after a 2-0 victory over Poland booked a place at the 2014 World Cup.

Knowing Ukraine were likely to thrash Group H minnows San Marino, Roy Hodgson's side had to win at Wembley Stadium in order to top the table and avoid a potentially tricky play-off tie.

And the Three Lions were sent on their way just before half time by a Wayne Rooney header, before captain Steven Gerrard secured a vital three points in the closing stages.

Hodgson and his charges have come in for criticism throughout his spell in charge, with the former Fulham and Liverpool manager once comically mocked up as the Christ The Redeemer statue prior to the Euro 2012 clash with France, such was the nation's bleak view of England's chances of progression.

But few could knock Hodgson after two exhilarating victories wrapped up an ultimately unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013 11:00

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Final obstacle for World Cup hopefuls

Just one more game stands between a number of teams and qualification for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

England can secure their place at next year's competition with a victory over Poland, with anything less meaning Roy Hodgson's side will be relying on San Marino to shock Ukraine to avoid a play-off tie.

Spain, meanwhile, need a single point against Azerbaijan to complete their road to Rio, with France likely to have to settle for second place.

Russia are also likely to finish top of their group at the expense of Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, while Honduras and Mexico are still playing for automatic qualification in the Concacaf zone.

In South America, Ecuador and Chile clash with both teams requiring a point to qualify, and Uruguay will be relying on either side to lose, while still needing to beat Argentina, who are already bound for Brazil.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013 10:15

Illustrations for Better Work



Here are illustrations I made for Better Work/Jordan, promoting a social center for the expats to practice their activities.


Bendt out of shape - Wenger struggled to flog Danish flop

Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner came close to moving to Crystal Palace in the summer and probably would be turning out for Ian Holloway's side had he not turned up for a medical out of shape.

The Denmark international spent last season on loan at Juventus and appeared to be on his way out of Arsene Wenger's squad this summer until a move to the Eagles broke down.

All's well that ends well though - Bendtner's back amongst the goals for Denmark - netting twice in their 2-2 draw with Italy and may well be afforded chances in the first team given the paucity of options at Wenger's disposal.

If he shapes up...
Monday, October 14, 2013 12:50

Monday, October 14, 2013

جائزة مؤسسة الحسين للسرطان

لقد كنت سعيدا بتكريمي من  مؤسسة الحسين للسرطان بجائزة أفضل رسمة ثابتة عن موضوع سرطان الثدي و اللذي تم برعاية سمو   الاميرة غيداء طلال رئيسة هيئة أمناء المؤسسة و بحضور سمو الاميرة دينا مرعد مدير عام المؤسسة ضمن جائزة البرنامج الاردني لسرطان الثدي لعام 2013 في عمان الأردن.


 الخبر كان ايضا على صحيفة الرأي



الرسمة



Ronaldo haunted by France failure

Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he is not looking forward to facing France, should both sides fail to book an automatic spot at next summer’s World Cup in Brazil.

Portugal’s hopes of finishing top of Group F took a huge dent after a 1-1 draw with Israel on Friday, leaving them three points behind leaders Russia and looking destined for a play-off place.

France, meanwhile, are in a similar position in Group I, meaning a play-off date between the two sides is a distinct possibility.

The last time the two sides met France won 1-0 to book a spot in the 2006 World Cup final, and Ronaldo admits he is a worried man: "Hopefully, we'll now get a bit of luck and not get a complicated team. The only team I wouldn't like to face is France.”
Sunday, October 13, 2013 11:56

Dutch Master Van Persie overtakes class of legends

Netherlands destroyed Hungary 8-1 in Amsterdam on Friday evening in one of the Oranje's more impressive displays.

Louis van Gaal's side had already qualified for World Cup 2014 but put on a show in front of expectant fans in the Amsterdam ArenA, led by Robin van Persie.

The Manchester United striker has steadily climbed the goalscoring ranks for his country, but finally overtook Patrick Kluivert at the top of the list after he netted a stellar hat-trick against Hungary.

Van Persie celebrated his 40th strike by running to Kluivert - now assistant coach to Van Gaal - before repeating the act of emotion as he went one better than the former Ajax and Barcelona hitman with his third goal on the night.
Saturday, October 12, 2013 11:52

Friday, October 11, 2013

Redknapp poison piles pressure on Roy

Harry Redknapp was spurned by the Football Association last year as the rulers of the domestic game appointed Roy Hodgson as manager of England.

Unsurprisingly, Redknapp did not walk quietly into the sunset, shrugging his shoulders and muttering "ah well, that's life". No, no, Redknapp has instead revealed all in his upcoming autobiograhpy - a raucous tale of backstabbing, contradictions and half-truths that has drawn pressure on Hodgson.

England face Montenegro on Friday night at Wembley before another home showdown, this time against Ukraine next week. Two wins will guarantee qualification for World Cup 2014 and ease the pressure on Hodgson - but with Redknapp waiting in the wings, perhaps it'd be more fun to watch this story play out a little more.
Friday, October 11, 2013 12:38

Thursday, October 10, 2013

African nations set for World Cup 2014 war

Saturday and Sunday sees the first legs of the final qualification round for the African nations as we gear towards World Cup 2014.

The first set of fixtures sees The Stallions (Burkina Faso) host The Desert Warriors (Algeria), while The Elephants (Ivory Coast) welcome The Lions of Teranga (Senegal) in Abidjan.

On Sunday The Black Lions (Ethiopia) take on The Super Eagles (Nigeria), The Eagles of Carthage (Tunisia) face The Indomitable Lions (Cameroon) and The Black Stars (Ghana) draw swords with The Pharaohs (Egypt).

All in all it promises to be colourful and entertaining at the very least.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013 09:49

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Wenger drinking from Arsenal's fountain of youth

Arsene Wenger is on the verge of extending his contract with Arsenal following the club's superb start to the Premier League season.

The Frenchman is in his 18th year at the club but is set to sign a new two-year extension to his £7.5 million-a-year deal taking him to two decades with the Gunners.

Wenger has come under fire from the club's fans after overseeing eight barren years in which the club have failed to win a notable piece of silverware.

However, the deadline day signing of £45m Mesut Ozil and a fine start to their campaign has seen the Gunners arrive at the summit of the Premier League after seven matches and prompt a new deal for the 63-year-old.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013 07:42

'Perfect' Atletico flex their muscles

Atletico Madrid continued their sensational start to the season with a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday.

The victory sees Diego Simeone’s men maintain their 100 per cent record with star striker Diego Costa again on target, scoring both goals for the hosts.

Simeone described the first-half performance as “near perfect” and in stark contrast to neighbours Real Madrid who fell behind twice at Levante and needed a 94th minute goal from Cristiano Ronaldo to snatch victory.
Monday, October 7, 2013 11:46

Dream come true for Moyes as another Manchester United star is born

After going a goal down against Sunderland on Saturday, David Moyes and Manchester United were in desperate need of inspiration to rescue three points from the Stadium of Light.

Step forward 18-year-old midfielder Adnan Januzaj, whose well-taken double in the space of six minutes ensured the Premier League champions would not suffer back-to-back defeats in the Premier League.
Sunday, October 6, 2013 07:30

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Cut it out! Wenger soaks smoker Wilshere

Jack Wilshere made headlines after being pictured smoking on a night out earlier this week, and Arsene Wenger has moved quickly to discourage his young midfielder.

In his Friday press conference, Wenger urged Wilshere to cut it out, but may be forced to go one step further if he does it again...
Saturday, October 5, 2013 12:00

Friday, October 4, 2013

El Matador: Diego Costa switches to Spain

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa has confirmed he wants to switch national allegiances from Brazil to Spain.

The 24-year-old has never represented the Selecao at any level and now has Spanish citizenship which entitles him to play for La Roja.

While Costa is ineligible for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers he has agreed to link up with the world champions and Vicente Del Bosque for future internationals.
Friday, October 4, 2013 11:49

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Oktoberfest: Bayern celebrate Manchester City thrashing

Bayern Munich are celebrating after enjoying a 3-1 thrashing over Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Pep Guardiola’s side raced into an early lead through Franck Ribery before two goals in four minutes in the second half, from Thomas Muller and Arjen Robben, put the German side in cruise control.

Alvaro Negredo pulled a late goal back for Manuel Pellegrini’s men but it was scant consolation on a bad night for City, and goalkeeper Joe Hart in particular.
Thursday, October 3, 2013 11:49

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Don't touch Neymar!

Tuesday's Champions League fixtures saw plenty of action with protesters interrupting Basel's match with Schalke after abseiling into the stadium, while up in Scotland Barcelona inched past Celtic.

Cesc Fabregas was the hero for the Catalans heading home late on to secure victory for the Spanish champions and ensure heartbreak for Neil Lennon's men.

However, the main talking point was not Fabregas' goal but the red card which saw Scott Brown sent off on the hour mark for a kick at Neymar, a decision that did not go down well with the home fans.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013 11:43

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Ghost buster: Wenger hopes to avoid being haunted by Napoli

Arsenal take on Napoli in the Champions League on Tuesday with manager Arsene Wenger set to face Gonzalo Higuain, a man he tried, and failed, to sign in the summer transfer window.

The Argentine striker, is not the only familiar face for the Gunners as Rafael Benitez brings his Serie A side to the Emirates Stadium, including goalkeeper Pepe Reina another one-time transfer target of the Gunners.

Wenger's men go into the game in confident mood, two points clear at the top of the early Premier League table, but will be hoping the ones that got away do not return to haunt his men.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013 11:46