ഇതാണ് ഞങ്ങ പറഞ്ഞ ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്

 

വോളി ഗോൾ, കോംബിനേഷൻ goals, ഡ്രിബിബിൾ ഗോൾ, ലോംഗ് ഗോൾ, ഫ്രീ കിക്ക് ഗോൾ. . .അങ്ങനെ സദ്യക്ക് വിളമ്പിയ വിഭവം പോലെ തകർപ്പൻ ഗോളുകളുമായി മുൻ നിരയും, വിട്ടുകൊടുക്കാതെ, തടഞ്ഞും തകർത്തും പിൻ നിരയും കളം നിറയുകയാണ്.. . ഈ കളികൾ കൊച്ചിയിൽ ആയിരുന്നെങ്കിൽ എന്ന് ആഗ്രഹിക്കുകയാണ് ആരാധകർ. 

ഗംഭീരം അല്ലായിരുന്നു തുടക്കം എങ്കിലും ടീം പതിയെ സുന്ദരമായ കളി കാഴ്ച വെച്ച് തുടങ്ങി. ATK മോഹൻ ബഗാൻ 4-0 തകർക്കുകയും തുടർച്ചയായി സമനിലകളും വന്നത് ആരാധകരെ തുടക്കത്തിൽ നിരാശരാക്കിയിരുന്നു. 

എന്നാല് മുംബൈ സിറ്റിയെ 3-0 ന് തകർത്തതോടെ ടീമിൽ പ്രതീക്ഷ വന്നു. രണ്ടാം പാദത്തിലും മുംബൈ സിറ്റിയെ 3-1 ന് തകർത്ത് കൊണ്ട് സെമി ഫൈനലിലേക്കും. 

അതിനിടയിൽ ഒന്നാമത് എത്തിയ പ്രകടനം ചെറുതായൊന്നുമല്ല ആരാധകരെ ഹരം കൊള്ളിച്ചത്. കരുത്തരായ ഗോവയാണ് അവസാന മത്സരത്തിൽ ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്ൻ്റെ എതിരാളികൾ. ആദ്യ പാദത്തിൽ അവരെ 2-2 സമനിലയിൽ തളച്ചചിരുന്നു. ഹൈദരാബാദ്, ജംഷഡ്പൂർ, ബാംഗളൂർ എന്നിവരാണ് കേരളത്തെ തോല്പിച്ച മറ്റു ടീമുകൾ. 19 മത്സരങ്ങളിൽ 9 വിജയവും 6 സമനിലകളുമായി 33 പോയിൻ്റുകൾ ആണ് കേരളം ഇതുവരെ നേടിയത്. 30 ഗോളുകൾ അടിച്ചപ്പോൾ 20 എണ്ണം വാങ്ങി. അയൽക്കാരായ ചെന്നൈയെ രണ്ട് പാദത്തിലും 3-0 ന് തകർത്തു. 

സർബിയൻ കോച്ച് ഇവാൻ വുകോമനോവിച്ച് ആണ് ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ്ൻ്റെ തന്ത്രങ്ങൾ മെനയുന്നത്. യൂറോപ്പിലെ മികച്ച ക്ലബ്ബുകളിൽ 250 ഓളം മത്സരങ്ങൾ കളിച്ച പരിചയം ഉള്ള ഇവാൻ, കളിക്കുമ്പോൾ പ്രതിരോധ താരം ആയിരുന്നെങ്കിലും , ആക്രമണം ആണ് പ്രധാന തന്ത്രമായി ഉപയോഗിക്കുന്നത്. സ്പെയിനിലെ മുൻനിര ടീമുകൾ ആയ ഗെററാഫെ, എസ്പനിയോൾ എന്നിവർക്ക് വേണ്ടി കളിച്ച് പരിചയം ഉള്ള അൽവരോ വാസ്കസ് ആണ് പ്രധാന ആയുധം. തൻ്റെ കരുത്തും ടെക്നിക്ക്കും പരിജയ സമ്പത്തും കൃത്യമായി ഉപയോഗിക്കുന്ന താരം ഇതുവരെ 7 ഗോളുകൾ നേടി കഴിഞ്ഞു. സഹ താരം ജോർഗെ ഡയസ് 6 ഗോളുകൾ നേടി നല്ല ഒത്തിനക്കത്തോടെ കളിക്കുന്നു. അഡ്രിയാൻ ലുണയും മലയാളി താരം സഹലും 5 ഗോളുകൾ വീതം അടിച്ച് നല്ല പിന്തുണ നൽകുന്നു. ലുണ, ഡയസ് എന്നിവർ ദക്ഷിണ അമേരിക്കയിൽ നിന്നുള്ളവരാണ്. യുവ താരങ്ങളായ ജീക്സൻ സിംഗ്, ചെഞ്ചോ തുടങ്ങിയവരും മികച്ച പ്രകടനം ആണ് നടത്തുന്നത്. 

ഇടയിൽ കേരളത്തെ പ്രകോപിപ്പിച്ച് എത്തിയ മുൻ താരം ജിംഘാനെ ആരാധകര് നല്ല രീതിയിൽ കൈ കാര്യം ചെയ്തു. ജിംഘാൻ ഇനി മാപ്പില്ല എന്നും പകരം തങ്ങൾക്ക് ഖബ്ര മതി എന്നും ആരാധകര് പറഞ്ഞതോടെ  താരത്തിന് മാപ്പ് പറയേണ്ടി വന്നു. 

ഏതായാലും ഇത്തവണ ടീമും മാനേജ്മെൻ്റും ആരാധകരും ഒറ്റ കെട്ടാണ്. കപ്പടിചില്ലെങ്കിലും സുന്ദരമായി കളിക്കുന്ന ഈ ടീമിനെ നെഞ്ചില് നിന്നും കളയാൻ ഒരു ബ്ലാസ്റ്റേഴ്സ് ആരാധകനും കഴിയില്ല. 

Delhi FC wins Futsal Championship

Story from The Champions Home

Delhi FC team won the Hero Futsal Championship held at Delhi dominantly, like there was no opponents for them. Valiant Display from the captain Nikhil Mali and keeper Skot. There was not a single match in which Nikhil hasn't scored less than 5 goals. 

The scores.

Group Stage

Vs Telongjem 16-6

TRAU -13-1

Niaw Wasa 15-4

Semi Final

Mangala 12-7

Final

Mohammedan FC 7-2

The vision and determination of Minerva Punjab FC owner Ranjit Bajaj made sure there was no opposition for the team in the tournament. 

When I reached Minerva Academy in September, team were already playing qualifier. As a coach I was amazed to see the quality and coordination of the team amd winning the qualifier easily crushing each team marginally. 

When the team came back they were never allowed to rest with job half done. Coaches Aman, Varinder and Owner Ranjit Bajaj himself were always pushing the boys to go higher and better. Sharpening the skills, making the edges shine, carving the best out of those boys. 

During the time, Captain Nikhil Mali was playing iLeague qualifier at Bangalore, and immediately after his return, he was also included to the practice. Morning and evening team kept on working hard on techniques and tactics. 

I doubt with the performance and the tournament itself that any other team took this level of determination on winning this trophy. There were clubs like TRAU, Mohammaden, Sporting Goa, Bangalore FC etc but I couldn't see much of high standard in them comparing Delhi FC team. 

The practice made the players so confident and strong inside and outside. It was evident even when losing ball and even when its a 1v1 situation, they stood between opponents and goal. 

While staying here, I can assure you more is coming from Minerva to the Indian football. As always we see minimum 3 players from Minerva in all the teams, aim is to increase those numbers in coming years. And the Vision of Ranjit Bajaj wont stop it from happening. I am proud being here while writing and experiencing it. More Anwar Ali's are coming. More Nikhil Mali's are coming. More Himanshu Jangras are coming. They are being made shaped for the best among the world players from #thefactory of Indian Football. 

Brazil wins consecutive football gold

Olympics Football Men Final

Score

Brazil 2

Cunha (45+1')

Malcom 108'

Spain 1

Oyarzabal (61')

Brazil looked confident from the start but spain had more possession. Also, Richarlison missed a penalty early in the first half. But, it was Brazil who came in front, just before half time. Spain defenders hesitated to clear a ball and Cunha took the chance and took shot from close range. Oyarzabal levelled with a brilliant finish. But, Malcom took advantage of tired Spain defence in a counter attack from corner and the low shot hit Unai Simon's leg before going to the net. 

Total matches : 32

Total goals : 93 (104 in 2016 Rio)

Top Scorer : Richarlison 5 goals

Mexico wins Bronze in men's Olympics football

2012 Olympics gold medalists Mexico defeated home team Japan in the Bronze medal match for 3-1. Mexico were on a 3-0 lead and Japan scored consolation goal in the 78th minute (Mitoma). Cordova (13' P), Vasquez (22') and Vega's (58') goals confirmed medal for Mexico. 

In the final, Brazil will play against Spain. 

Canada's 11 year wait for Gold over

2012 Bronze , another Bronze at Rio, and they did it at Tokyo, defeating Sweden in penalties.

Score 

Canada 1 ( Fleming 68' P)

Sweden 1( Blacksteinus 34')

It was Sweden who took lead in the first half. They were very confident and dominant throughout the tournament. They had conceded just 3 goals before this. Whereas Canada came after defeating Brazil in penalties in the quarter final match. 

Total Matches Played 26

Total Goals 101

Top Scorer : 

Vivianne Miedema (10 Goals) Holland

6 goals

 Sam Kerr (Australia)

 Ellen White (United Kingdom)

 Barbra Banda (Zambia)

USA women finish worrying Olympics with Bronze

Current world champions USA defeated a fighting Aussies in the bronze medal match. They will look back very deep about the tournament as the champions pride was hurt from the very first match. 

Rapinoe started scoring for USA in the 8th minute but Kerr (17') levelled for matildas. Rapinoe scored again and gave them in the 21st minute. It looked like USA going for a massive win when Lloyd scored double (45+1',  51') to take the score to 4-1. But, Aussie ladies were determined not to give up without a fight. 

Foord scored soon for them (54') to decrease rhe deficit. But, USA made it tough for them as they couldn't find another untill 90th minute. Gielnik found the net but then it was too late for them. 

Rapinoe's first goal was an Olympic goal. Australian keeper couldn't keep the ball out. She scored second when Aussies defender kicked a ball straight to her, she just had to tap into the net. 

Australia's all goals were brilliant though. Kerr finished from a through boal, as Foord flicked a header past keeper. Kerr hit target again but was denied by the woodwork. Gielnik found the target from a long shot, which flew low and curled away to the right side of the keeper. 

Brazil reach Final again; Spain broke Japan hearts

 Olympics Men's football 

Semi Final 1

BRAZIL 0(4)-0(1) Mexico

Brazil beat Mexico in Olympics Semi final which went onto penalties after both teams failed to score in stipulated 90 monutes and extra time. Brazil took advantage and scored 4 out of 4 while Mexico missed 2. Brazil are playing final for the second consecutive time after winning gold at home in Rio Olympics 2016. Brazil will play against Spain in the final. 

Semi Final 2

Japan 0-1 Spain

Asensio 115'

Asensio's 115th minute goal broke host Japan's hearts. Spain, will play their first Olympic final after 2000 Silver medal match. They have won gold in 1992. 

Bronze medal match 

6 August 2021

Saitama

Japan Vs Mexico

Final 

7 August 2021

Yokohama

Brazil vs Spain

Sweden and Canada reached final of Olympics football

 Olympics Women's football 

Semi Final 1

USA 0-1 Canada 

Fleming 74' (P)

Canada beat USA in the women's football semi final to reach final. This is the first time they are reaching final. In 2012 and 2016, they finished in third , winning Bronze medals.  The most successful women's football team were on top of Canada throughout the match, but they missed chances and couldnt score. Canada defended well too. Fleming successfully turned the penalty in for Canada to give important win.

Semi Final 2

Australia 0-1 Sweden

Rolfo 46'

In a very tight match, Australia were defeated by Sweden. Both teams were trying hard for the win. Kerr turned a free kick brilliantly into the net just before half time but it was called off-side. The 2016 Rio finalists are looking good and going for gold this time. 

Bronze medal match 

August 5, Kashima

Australia vs USA

Final 

6 August, National stadium, Tokyo

Sweden vs Canada

USA wins thrilling final in Extra time goal against Mexico

US defender Miles Robinson scored the winner for USA in the 117th minute to beat Mexico in the CONCACAF Gold cup in Los Angeles. This is the 7th tittle for USA, now just one behind Mexico (8 tittles). Mexico had the upper hand through out the match but they missed many chances on shot. 

This was Robinson's (24) third goal for USMNT from 9 matches, who plays in Major League Soccer Atlanta United 2 club.

US beat Qatar in the semi final for the same score. Qatar missed chances and a penalty too to miss chance to play final. Gyasi Zardes scored the winning goal in semi. 

Mexico beat Canada in the semi match for 2-1. In the injury time (90+9') Herrera scored the winning goal in the dramatic and thrilling match after both team stayed on level. Pineda scored the first goal from a penalty in the 45+2' minute to give Mexico lead. Canada came back to game in 57', with a brilliant goal by Buchanan. 

Qatar's Alemoz Ali was top scorer in the tournament with 4 goals. Hector Herrera of Mexico was chosen as best player of the tournament. USA's Matt Turner got Best goal keeper award and Canada's Tajon Buchanan was selected as best young player. USA got fair play award. 

CONCACAF (The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football) conducts championship for its members every two years since 1963. From 1991 it was renamed as Gold Cup. In 2021, USA hosts 16th edition of Gold cup from 10 July to 1 August. After qualifying rounds, 16 teams compete in the final rounds. As World cup 2022 hosts, CONCACAF decided to give Qatar a guest entry in 2021 and 2023 tournaments. 

Brazil, Mexico, Spain book semi spots. Japan Edge past New Zealand in Penalties

Olympics Men's football 

Quarter Final

Mexico thrashed Korea in quarter final in a goals rained match for 6-3. Mexico started scoring in the 12'(Martín). But Korea levelled in the 20th minute (Lee D K) with a beautiful goal from outside the box. Mexico didn't gave Korea much time to breathe as they scored second jst after 10 minutes. Romo scored in the 30th minute and Cordova doubled the lead from a penalty in 39th minute. Half time score was 3-1. Lee D K scored his second goal to make the deficit to 1 (3-2, 51'). But, korea couldnt stop Mexican waves of attack as they scored goals in quick succession (Martin 54', Cordova 63', Ed Aguire 84') 6-2.  Hwang scored another goal for Korea in the injury time (90+1') but that wasnt enough for them to prevent the loss. 

Mexico will meet Brazil on 3rd August at Saitama Stadium. 

Brazil's quarter final win against Egypt for 1-0. Cunha scored the all important winning goal in the 37'. 

Spain and Ivory Coast were at level till 90th minute (2-2) but Mir scored hattrick in the extra time (90+3', 117' and 120+1'). In thrilling match, Ivory Coast took lead in the 10th minute through Bailly goal. Olmo (30') scored the equaliser in the half way mark, from a defensive mistake of Ivory Coast defender. African team took lead in the injury tim of second half (Gradel 90+1').  When they thought they did enough and go semi final spot, Mir scored his first goal. It was all Spain in the extra time. Oyarzabal scored from penalty to give them lead in the 98th minute. Mir completed his hattrick to take them into semi finals. 

Spain will play against Japan in the semi final at Yokohama stadium. 

Japan and New Zealand couldnt break the deadlock in stipulated 90 minutes and extra time. Japan scored 4 of their penalties but Newzealand missed second and 3rd. 

Brazil, Holland crash out in penalties, Sweden thrash Japan.

Miedema score couple more to reach 10 goals and top of the list but failed to score important penalty in shootout. 

Canada beat Brazil to reach semi final in 4-3 penalties score after both team couldn't score in stipulated 90 minutes and extra time. Canada keeper Stephanie Labbe starred by saving last 2 kicks of Brazil. Canada will face USA in semi final on 2 August at Kashima stadium. In a tough match, both teams fought well. Brazil missed few chances too. Brazil keeper Barbara saved the first kick for them too and gave them advantage. 

In a thrilling match, Australia beat Great Britain. Allen White scored hattrick for Britain and Kerr scored a double for Australia. Match went into extra time after both team levelled with 2 goals in 90 minutes. Chelsea stricker Kerr saved the game for Australia by scoring her first goal in 89th minute, when England were leading 2-1. Earlier Australia took the lead in 35th minute from Kennedy's goal. White scored 2 in succession (57' and 66') to give England lead. In extra time, Kerr scored again (106') after Fowler gave lead with 103rd minute goal. England fought back and scored again in the 115' minute, but Australia held them in that score to clinch the victory. 

It was a game with so much drama and so many great goals. White's first goal was great finish. And Kerr's 89th minute equaliser was example of how calm and composed you should be in pressure situations. 

Australia will play against Sweden in the Semi final on 2nd August at Yokohama stadium. 

Sweden beat Japan for 3-1 score. Strong Sweden took early lead in the 7th minute when Eriksen scored for them. Japan equalised with a 23rd minute goal. The scores stayed on level till half time. In the second half, Blackstenius (53') and Asllani (68' Pen) ensured win for Sweden. 

In another thriller, USA defeated Holland in penalties 2-2(4-2). Star stricker Miedema and Nouwen missed the kicks as USA scorer all 4 of their turns. Earlier Miedema scored in the fourth consecutive match for Holland. After Miedema's first goal(18'), US came back strongly to score 2 in 28'(Mewis) and 31'(Williams) minutes. Miedema scored the equaliser in the 54th minute. Both her goals were great. First one, she took a touch and turned , then shot at goal to score. Second, she dribbled and took a shot from outside the box which beat keeper at first post. 

Semi Final 

2 August 2021

USA v Canada

Kashima stadium

Sweden v Australia

Yokohama

Japan stun France, Brazil, Egypt, Korea, Mexico win. Argentina go back after draw against Spain.

Germany, France, Australia also return from Japan. 

Hosts Japan reached second round emphatically winning all three games in the group stages, only team to do so, after defeating France in the last group match 4-0. Japan took a 2-0 lead in the first half after Kubo (27') and Sakai(34') scored. They increased their lead in the 70th minute , before Kolo Muani was shown red card in the 73rd minute. Japan completed the goal tally in the injury time (90+1) , this time Maeda found the net. 

Japan will face New Zealand in the quarter final on July 31, at Kashima. 

New Zealand reached in the quarter with a win and a draw. In the final group match, they held Romania for a goal less draw. New Zealand's first match against Korea gave them advantage in the group. 

Germany found the way out of the tournament after draw in their final group match against Ivory Coast (1-1). Both goals came in the second half. Ivory Coast took lead from an own goal (Henrichs 67') and Germany equalised soon Lowen (73') but they couldn't score the winning goal. 

Ivory Coast who advanced to the quarter final will face Spanish challenge on July 31, at Rifu. 

Spain were held in draw from a late goal by Argentina (Belmonte 87') in a dramatic match, after they took lead in 66nd minute goal by Merino. With a win and 2 draws, they advanced as toppers of group C. 

Egypt is the second team who got quarter berth from Group C. They defeated Australia for 2-0 score. Rayan (44') and Hamdi (85') scored for Egypt. 

Egypt will play against Brazil in the last 8 round at Saitama stadium. Brazil clinched a 3-1 win against Saudi Arabia in their final group match. Cunha scored for Latin American giants in the 17'th minute, but Saudi levelled from a free kick(27) soon. Brazil came back strongly in the second half. Richarlison scored twice from close range tap ins, and now tops the goal scorers list with 5 goals. 

South Korea thrashed Honduras for 6 goals to nil score, after they got 4 penalties. 3 they turned into scores and missed one. Honduras were reduced to 10 men after Melendez received second yellow and red card (39') in the first half. Hwang (12', 45+5', 52') scored hattrick for the asians, Won (19'), Kim (64'), and Lee(82') finished the tally. Hwang's second goal was a beauty. 

Korea will face Mexico in quarter final at Yokohama. 

Mexico reached quarter as A group runners after Japan. They beat South Africa in their final group match (3-0). Vega (18'), Romo (45') and Martin (60' found net for Mexico. South Africa's Malepe (58') and Mexico's Rodriguez (66') received red cards in the match. 

Quarter Final 

July 31

Kashima 

Japan v New Zealand

Rifu

Spain v Ivory Coast

Yokohama

South Korea v Mexico

Saitama

Brazil v Egypt

Australia held America for a goal less draw as Holland thrash China

Miedema moves up on top scorer list with 8 goals. Quarter final line up ready. Zambia, New Zealand,Chile China return home from Tokyo. 

USA women team struggle continues but they secured quarter final spot for the Women Olympics after a 0-0 draw against Australia. USA will play against Holland and Australia against Great Britain on July 30th. With this kind of form, and Holland's current goal scoring form, it's expected that they would lose in quarter. Meanwhile, Australia have a chance against Great Britain. 

Holland secured a comfortable strong win against China, Miedema again scoring 2 goals as Lieke Mertens(2), Beerensteyn(2),Pelova(1)and Van De Sanden(1) scored the rest of the goals. Shanshan and Yanwen scored for China. 

Japan defeated Chile for a single goal scored by Tanaka in the 77th minute. With this win and a draw, they qualified for the quarter final.   Japan will face Sweden, who are in terrific form at the moment. Sweden are the only team who has won all 3 matches of the group stage. They also defeated USA in the first match. 

Sweden defeated New Zealand in the final group match. Anvegard (17') and Janogy(29') scored for them. Sweden and Holland have best chances of winning gold this time. 

Canada and Great Britain settled for a 1-1 draw. Canada scored first and took lead in the 55th minute. England fought back and they got the price as a self goal in the 85th minute. Both teams qualified for the quarter, where Canada will play against Brazil and England face Australia. 

In the last match of matchday 3, Brazil beat Zambia for a sole goal by Alves (19'). Brilliant stricker and captain of Zambia Banda couldnt score and finished with 6 goals in the tournament. 

Quarter Finals , July 30

Great Britain v Australia

Kashima

Sweden v Japan

Saitama

Netherlands v USA

Yokohama

Canada v Brazil 

Rifu

Brazil held for a goal less draw by Ivory coast, France, Germany, Honduras, Spain wins :Japan defeated Mexico.

 Medina Facundo scores winner for Argentina against gritty Egypt

Score 

Argentina 1

Egypt 0

The decisive goal came in the 52nd minute.

France 4

South Africa 3

In a very interesting match, France were on toes against South Africa who were playing very aggressively for a win. They lost 4-3. In the first half, Luther Singh missed a penalty which came as important one. 

First goal came in the 53rd min, South Africa scored from a defensive mistake of France. Kodisang steal the ball and tapped ball into open net. But, France levelled soon in 57' , Gignac turned a left wing cross into the net. In the 73rd min, South Africa took lead again when Makhopa scored this time. He took a close range shot from a right wing cross. 

Gignac scored again to level it up , this time from a high cross from right flank, which he headed in using his height advantage. Soon, Makoena produced a stunning curler into the top corner of France goal, to give South Africa lead again in the 81st minute. But, they conceded a penalty in the 86th minute and Gignac completed his hattrick. Sanier's 92nd minute strike broke South African hearts. . They didnt had much time to answer that goal. Heads up South Africa. Well done. 

Brazil 0-0 Ivory coast 

After Douglas Luis was sent off in the 13th minute, Brazil were under pressure against African side, and they managed not to conced a goal but couldnt win it. Kouassi also saw red card in the 80th minute but Brazil couldn't find a way to goal. 

Spain 1- 0 Australia

Oyarzabal scored in the 81st minute to give Spain a very important win against Australia, who had defeated Argentina in the first match. The group looks really tough at the moment where Spain leading with 4 points and Australia, Argentina with 3 points. 

Germany 3-2 Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia came twice from behind against European giants but they couldn't stop them from winning. Alnaji scored both goals for Asian side, as Amiri, Ache and Uduokhai scored for Germany. Pieper was sheon red card in the 67 th minute, but Saudi Arabia couldn't use the advantage. 

Romania 0-4 South Korea

Romani, who were surprise package from Europe were thrashed by South Korea. Gheorghe was shown red card in the 45 minute and Korea took advantage after they were ahead with a Romanian own goal in 28', when romanian captain's clearance deflected to goal.  Lee scored double and Um scored for Korea. There was an interesting handball situation for Korea, when goal keeper forgot the back pass, and took ball in hand. But, Korea managed to block the kick. 

All four teams in the group have 3 points each now. Both matches in the group will be decisive for the teams. 

Japan 2- 1 Mexico

Home team Japan beat strong Mexicans, eho looked to be gold contenders for 2 goals to 1. Japan took early lead in the 6th minute, as Kubo scored again. They doubled their lead in 11 th minute, Doan scored this time. 

Alvarado scored Mexico's consolation goal in 85th minute, after Vasquez received red card in the 68 minute. 

Mexico will be facing South Africa in their final match, and Japan against France. Japan are already through to second round, but its important for France and South Mexico. 

Honduras 3-2 New Zealand

Honduras clinched a thrilling win from a 87th minute goal by Rivas to beat New Zealand. Cacace(10') and Wood(49') gave New Zealand lead but Palma (45+1') and Obregón Jr (78') equalised for Honduras before Rivas hit the winning goal. 

Matchday 3- 28 July 2021

RSA v MEX

FRA v JPN

AUS v EGY

ESP v ARG

KOR v HON

ROU v NZL

GER v CIV

KSA v BRA

Holland held Brazil for thrilling draw, USA thrash New Zealand - Britain, Canada, Sweden wins.

 Olympic football Women's Matchday 2

Incredible Zambian captain Banda scores another hattrick.

24 July 2021

Brazil vs Holland 

3-3

Two of the best in Women's football clash at Olympics and settled for a draw. Miedema scored double for Holland and super player Martha scored again for Brazil. Holland took lead when Miedema scored a brilliant goal in the 3rd minute. Debinha's 17th minute goal levelled the score and both teams went for half time break in 1-1 score. Miedema scored again in the 59 min to give Holland lead but Marta and Ludmila scored for Brazil to give them 3-2 lead. But , Jansen found net in the 79' minute and match ended in draw. 

Miedema is now leading scorer with 6 goals in the tournament. Brazil will play against Zambia and Holland play against China on 27 July in their final first round match. 

USA (6) vs Newzealand (1)

For USA 

Lavelle 9'

Horan 45'

Erceg (OG) 63'

Press 80'

Morgan 87'

Bott (OG) 90+3'

For NZ

Hasset 73'

Mighty US team comes back to winning ways by thrashing New Zealand. They will be facing Australia in their final league match which is now a must win to continue in the tournament. There was only US in the entire match, with Newzealand  showing some fighting spirits in the first half. 

Great Britain vs Japan

1-0

Allen White 74'

Britain secured their second win in the tournament with White again scoring the winning goal. They will be up against Canada and Japan will meet Chile in 3rd group match on 27 July. 

Sweden 4-2 Australia

Rolfo 21', 63'

Hurtig 52'

Blacksteinus 82'

Kerr 36' , 48'

In an entertaining match, Australia were defeated by Sweden. With Kerr scoring 2 goals, Australia came from behind to take the lead 2-1 but Sweden were confident to win it by scoring 3 more goals. 

Australia will face USA and Sweden will play against New Zealand in their final group matches on 27th. 

China 4-4 Zambia

China scorers 

Wang 7', 22', 23', 83'

Zambia scorers 

Kundananji  15'

Barbra Banda 42', 47', 69'

Brilliant captain scored another hattrick for Zambia as they held China for a 4-4 draw. She had scored 3 when they lost to Holland 10-3. Wang scored 4 goals for China. 

Banda is now at top of scorers list with Miedema with 6 goals. 

China will play against Holland and Zambia against Brazil on 27th July. 

Chile 1- 2 Canada

For Chile

Araya 57'

For Canada

Beckie 38', 47'

Chile will face Japan and Canada against Great Britain on 27th July. 

Australia defeat Argentina in Big upset on start of Olympics football.

 Australia beat Argentina for 2-0 and Brazil thrashed Germany 4-2 on opening day of Olympics football. Richarlison scored hat-trick for defending champions. After conceding a goal in first half, Argentina were reduced to 10 men and Australia took advantage to beat them. In other matches, Mexico defeated France (4-1), Japan Beat South Africa (1-0), Romania beat Honduras (1-0), New Zealand defeated South Korea (1-0), Ivory coast 2-1 Saudi Arabia. Egypt held Spain for a goal less draw, in which Dani Olmo, Pedri, Asensio and Pau Torres were present. 

        Richarlison celebrating his goal against Germany 

Argentina will play against Egypt on 25 June in their second match, while Brazil play against Ivory coast. Spain will be meeting Australia and Japan against Mexico. 

Santos scored other 2 goals for Brazil. For Australia, Ledesma scored both goals. Kubo scored Japan's winning goal against Sauth Africa. 

US women team lost a match after 2 years, defeated by Sweden in the opener.

Olympics football starts with a cracker. US women team ,current world champions finally lost a game after 2 years when they lost to Sweden for 3-0 score. After a surprise lead, US missed few chances and Sweden capitalised to it and won it. Their next match is on July 24 against New Zealand and then against Australia on July 27. 

They were successful in previous 44 games without tasting defeat. They have 4 world cups and 4 Olympic golds in their bag. Sweden are current runner's up from Rio Olympics. 

Their previous loss was in Jan 2019 against France, for 3-1 in a friendly. After that there were just 4 draws and all other matches they have won. The Swedish women lead in the first half for 1 goal came in 25th min. Blacksteinus diverted a cross from Jacobson from right wing. They doubled their lead in the  54th min. A Corner was hit on upright post and agains Blacksteinus tapped it into net. The shocking result was coming with Sweden attacking for more goals and US women missing an open net. Hurtig sealed their win in the 72 nd minute. 

Top Leagues in the World Starting Dates 2021-22 Season

 English Premier league, La liga, Serie A, German Bundesliga, and ligue 1 leagues start in August 2nd or 3rd week of 2021. 

1. English Premier league
13 August 2021 – 22 May 2022
First week matches :

Saturday, August 7, 2021
Community Shield: Manchester City v Leicester City

Friday, August 13, 2021
Brentford v Arsenal

Saturday, August 14, 2021
Burnley v Brighton
Chelsea v Crystal Palace
Everton v Southampton
Leicester City v Wolverhampton
Manchester United v Leeds United
Norwich City v Liverpool
Watford v Aston Villa

Sunday, August 15, 2021
Newcastle United v West Ham United
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City

2. Spanish La Liga
13 August 2021 – 22 May 2022

First Week matches
Matchday 1
Friday, August 13, 2021
Valencia v Getafe

Saturday, August 14, 2021
Osasuna v Espanyol
Cádiz v Levante
Mallorca v Betis
Alavés v Real Madrid

Sunday, August 15, 2021
Celta v Atlético Madrid
Barcelona v R. Sociedad
Sevilla v Rayo Vallecano
Villarreal v Granada
Elche v Athletic Club

3. Italian Serie A
22 August 2021 – 22 May 2022

Sunday, 22 August, 2021
Bologna vs. Salernitana
Cagliari vs. Spezia
Empoli vs. Lazio
Inter Milan vs. Genoa
Napoli vs. Venezia
Roma vs. Fiorentina
Sampdoria vs. AC Milan
Torino vs. Atalanta
Udinese vs. Juventus
Hellas Verona vs. Sassuolo

4. German Bundesliga
13 August 2021 - May 2022

Friday, August 13, 2021
M'gladbach vs Bayern Munich

Saturday 14th August 2021
Union Berlin v Bayern Leverkusen
Bielefeld v Freiburg
FC Augsburg v Hoffenheim
Stuttgart v Greuther Furth
Wolfsburg v Bochum
B Dortmund v Frankfurt

Sunday, 15 August 2021
Mainz v RB Leipzig
Cologne v Hertha Berlin

5. French Ligue 1
7 August 2021 – 21 May 2022

Sunday 8th August
Rennes v RC Lens
Bordeaux v Clermont
Lyon v Brest
Metz v Lille
Monaco V Nantes
Montpellier V Marseille
Nice v Reims
St Etienne v Lorient
Strasbourg v Angers
Troyes V PSG

Olympics - Men's U23 Football World Cup

Yes ! Olympics football is also know as U23 World cup. Football matches at Tokyo olympics will be from 21 July to 7 August. 16 teams will be competing in men's event. 12 teams in women's, but it is not considered as World cup though. Most of the stars we see in senior events were Olympic team members including Messi and Neymar. Matches will be played at 7 stadiums across Japan. 

16 teams are divided into 4 groups as given :

Group A

Japan

South Africa

Mexico

France

Group B

New Zealand

Korea

Honduras

Romania

Group C

Egypt

Spain

Argentina

Australia

Group D

Brazil

Germany

Cote D'Ivoire

Saudi Arabia

Football is part of Olympics from 1900. Hungary and Great Britain are most successful in Olympic football with gold 3 medals. Brazil are defending champions and that was their first tittle. They beat Germany in the final. As the tournament was delayed by almost a year, FIFA is considering U24 players in men's event. 3 players can be included in squad above age of 24. VAR will be used in this edition of Olympics for the first time. 

Competition consists of 2 stages, group stage and knock out stage. Winners and runners from each group will advance to knock out stage, means 8 teams will compete. 

Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Australia are teams from Asia. Brazil, Argentina will represent South America, while Mexico, Honduras will represent North America. South Africa, Egypt, Cote D'Ivoire. Germany, Spain, Romania, France will represent Europe, and New Zealand fron Oceania. 

European teams got qualified through 2019 UEFA U21 Championship. Spain were the champions and Germany were beaten in final 2-1. 

AFC U23 Championship hosted by Thailand in January 2020 was qualifying tournament for asian teams. Japan got hosts ticket though. South Korea were champions and Saudi Arabia runners up. Australia got qualified as third placed team. India were not qualified for the tournament. 

Africa U23 Cup of Nations was the qualification tournament for African teams. It was hosted by Egypt in November 2019 and they became champions defeating Ivory coast in the final. South Africa became third placed team. 

CONMEBOL conducted Pre Olympic tournament in Columbia from 18 Jan to 9 February in 2020. Argentina beat Brazil in final and both teams got qualified. Uruguay were third and Columbia fourth in the tournament. 

Group C looks tough. 

Football for women was introduced in 1996 Atalanta Olympics. Most successful team is USA with 4 titles and Germany are defending champions. 

Group E

Canada

Great Britain

Chile

Japan

Group F

Brazil

China PR

Netherlands

Zambia

Group G

Australia

Sweden

New Zealand

USA

Germany failed to qualify, USA will be a tough Gold medal contender, as they are the current world champions. England, Netherlands and Japan are also good. 

England's EURO run was exactly like Italy's 2006 world cup win.

You don't believe? 

Here is the details. . . 

Italy won their 4th FIFA World Cup in 2006 after defeating France in final. We saw a dramatic match, when Zidane was red carded after incident with Marco Materazzi, and eventually France lost in penalties. There is only Brazil ahead of Italy in world cup wins with 5 titles now. 2020 EURO success was their first title after that world cup win. They lost in 2012 EURO final to Spain. 

I have been keenly following England for some time. They started a plan in 2012, which brought success in U17 and successive UCL semi final, final performances from English clubs. They have been really good in 2018 World cup too. I believed they would win this for the first time. 

But, when i checked Italy's matches of 2006 World cup, it really shocked me. There are many similarities in their run. 

Upto Semi final win both teams won 5 matches , and one draw. That too second match. Their third group stage match was against Czech Republic. Both teams played against Germany and defeated with 2 goals margin. Astonishing right?! 

They also had a match in knock out against Ukraine. England beat them by 4-0, while Italy scored 3 and conceded none. In the entire tournament, both teams concede just 2 goals. They had to face penalty shootout in final, after 1-1 draw, but Italy emerged as champions but England fall. Italy scored 11 goals upto Semi final in 2006 world cup while England scored 11. 

England, even though failed in final, have done extremely good in the tournament. Its an achievement that they should keep in mind and work forward with. Their 55 year dry rotten final stories can be updated with Luke Shaw's 2021 goal and win over Germany. Congrats to Italy and their coach Roberto Mancini, who managed to make this kind of a quality team from ashes of a failed team. Gareth Southgate also has got done exceptionally, but his substitution in final were not apt.