World Cup Preview - Group G
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Bookable Offense is gearing up in the final days before the World Cup with our last two group previews. Today's look at Group G comes from our World Cup Headquarters in stormy Berlin.
France
Few teams have experienced the same highs and lows as Les Bleus in previous two World Cups. Winners on home soil in 1998, the French entered the tournament as champions for the first time four years later and crashed out without scoring a goal. Can this talented squad regain the form that saw them crowned as champions of the world, or will they suffer from more unimaginative play and make another early exit?
Playing in neighboring Germany will mean a strong showing by supporters of Raymond Domenech's men, which should bode well for them. Never lacking for skilled players, France perhaps gained an extra edge eight years ago with the support of their home fans. Replicating their tough-minded defensive play, creative offensive movements, and crowd support from their title run would make this French team a force to be reckoned with heading towards the final match in Berlin on July 9th.
Also benefiting Les Bleus is a winnable group. Deservedly the heavy favorites in Group G, the French will have their sights set much further than simply reaching the Round of 16.
Key Player - Fabien Barthez
Perhaps no position on the French squad has been under as much scrutiny and speculation as the goalkeeper. Fabien Barthez has been given the starting role again over Gregory Coupet of Lyon. If Barthez can display the same form that brought Les Bleus World Cup success, Domenech will look like a genius for his decision. If, on the other hand, he has any of the wild displays of adventure away from his goal mouth for which he is famous, it could be a short trip to Germany this summer.
What to Watch For
France remains an enigma. Can they play like the clear Group G favorites that they are? Or will they repeat the same inconsistent form that put qualification in doubt until the very end? Their toughest group game is their opener against the upstart Swiss. But regardless of form, there's little doubt that the French will make the Round of 16 in this easy group. Should they avoid the Spanish in the Round of 16, it should be clear sailing to the quarterfinals.
South Korea
The home cooking was good for South Korea at World Cup 2002. Spurred on by tremendous fan support, the Koreans were surprising semifinalists in 2002. That accomplishment is perhaps less impressive when you consider the fortunate refereeing decision they received in games against Italy and Spain along the way. Still, the level of excitement and expectations have never been higher for South Korea. A recent survey shows that 94% of South Koreans anticipate at least a Round of 16 appearance by the Asian Tigers.
The biggest difference this time around, besides playing away from home soil, is the departure of Dutch coach Guus Hiddink. Hiddink is a miracle worker of sorts with less talented teams, and his replacement, fellow Dutchman Dick Advocaat, has big shoes to fill. The Koreans' success in 2002 saw many of their players earn moves to Europe, but unfortunately a good number of those, such as forwards Ahn Jung-Hwan and Cha Du-Ri, spend most of their time at their clubs on the bench. However in left back Lee Young-Pyo (Tottenham) and midfielder Park Ji-Sung (Manchester Utd), Advocaat has at least two veteran, world class players to depend on. Advocaat's 4-3-3 will encourage the Asian Tigers to push forward and create opportunities as well.
Key Player - Park Ji-Sung
After settling in at Manchester United, Park became one of the most exciting new players in the English Premier League last term. Known as "The Worker" to United fans, Park has held his own as the first Korean player in the EPL. His versatility - he can play as a holding midfielder, attacking midfielder, or on either wing - makes him a real asset for South Korea. Known for his fitness, strong work ethic, and good attitude, Park will have added responsibility as a playmaking central midfielder with the Koreans. With questions up front, South Korea may also need Park to chip in the odd goal or two should they want to make the Round of 16.
What to Watch For
Obviously, South Korea must win its opening game against Togo. They won't be favored against the French, but expect them to put up a good fight. The key game could be the final contest against the Swiss, which could see the winner make the Round of 16. The Koreans proved they aren't to be taken lightly four years ago. Now they have to prove they can beat top competition away from home.
Switzerland
Switzerland is doing a fine job of building their national team into one that will consistently qualify for World Cups and European Championships for years to come. What's helped propel the Swiss into being a consistent performer is the recruitment of players from other far away lands or parentage with ties to Switzerland. While always organized and efficient, the Swiss always lacked the flair and power to put them over the top. Thanks to their new players, like Ivory Coast-born Johan Djourou. that's no longer the case. Anyone who watched their bitter, rough playoff victory over Turkey will attest to that. Kobi Kuhn, the first Swiss-born manager of the team in over a decade, should be congratulated for his fine work in building this squad back into the power it was in the 1930s.
The team is solid down the spine. Philippe Senderos has grown into a fine centerback. Johan Vogel, while frustrated on the bench at AC Milan, plays inspired football when captaining the Swiss squad. Vogel likes to sit deep, but still is able to quarterback the Swiss attack from his position. Up front, Alexander Frei, once only famous for spitting at Steven Gerrard at Euro 2004, has rebuilt his reputation and was the top goalscorer in Ligue 1 in 2004/05. Switzerland still stays true to its defensive roots, but this squad has enough creativity and skill to give teams fits on the other end of the pitch.
Key Player - Philippe Senderos
Senderos has emerged as one of the finest young defenders in the world in the last two seasons. His fine play at Arsenal has the Gunners considering off-loading Sol Campbell this summer. A natural leader, Senderos is good both on the ground and in the air. He's shown a good knack of learning from his mistakes and constantly improving. His distribution from the back leaves a bit to be desired. However, he possesses all of the other skills one would look for in a defender. It will be a lot of fun to see him lock horns with his club teammate, Thierry Henry, on June 13.
What to Watch For
Switzerland won't be afraid of France on June 13. The teams drew both games they played in qualifying. If the Swiss can get a point off of the French, they'll be in good shape to make the Round of 16. If they lose, then they'll have to beat both Togo and South Korea to move on. The defense looks good, but goalscoring could be a bit of a concern. Still, the Round of 16 looks very attainable for the Swiss.
Togo
Not much is expected from World Cup debutante Togo in 2006. The Sparrow Hawks were the biggest surprise among the African qualifiers. Unfortunately, nothing has gone right for Togo following qualification. The coach that led them to their greatest achievement was sacked following Togo's dismal performance at the African Cup of Nations. In that tournament, star forward Emmanuel Adebayor openly fought with the Sparrow Hawks' coach and lost the respect of his teammates. Then there was a dispute over wages that the players would earn this summer. To put it mildly, it's been a rough six months for the Togolese.
But with their first World Cup ahead of them, spirits will be up. The caustic Adebayor was stellar in qualifying, leading all scorers in Africa. A 3-5-2 formation from German coach Otto Pfister will attempt to clog up the midfield to subdue the classy French, speedy Koreans, and counterattacking Swiss. Unfortunately, Togo will likely have a tough go of it this summer. Points will be tough to come by.
Key Player - Emmanuel Adebayor
In qualifying, you had to remind yourself that this budding star was only 21. Now 22, Adebayor unfortunately has shown his immaturity in recent months. With his poor attitude, he was very much responsible for the troubles Togo endured at the African Cup of Nations. Togo will hope his January move to Arsenal, where he was surrounded by classy veterans, will have helped to instill some maturity in Adebayor. He will need to be at his very best if the Sparrow Hawks have a prayer at getting any points in Germany.
What to Watch For
Togo will be right there in the running for finishing dead last at this World Cup. African football has improved by leaps and bounds, and it's very impressive that a team like Togo qualified ahead of Senegal. But Togo simply hasn't the class or skill to compete with its Group G foes. The Sparrow Hawks will struggle to score a goal, let alone earn any points.
Photos courtesy of football.co.uk, wsoccer.com, footcoreen.com, wikipedia.org, and parlonsfoot.com. Group G isn't the most exciting of groups, but we'll still watch. Let us know what you think at bookableoffense@gmail.com.
France
Few teams have experienced the same highs and lows as Les Bleus in previous two World Cups. Winners on home soil in 1998, the French entered the tournament as champions for the first time four years later and crashed out without scoring a goal. Can this talented squad regain the form that saw them crowned as champions of the world, or will they suffer from more unimaginative play and make another early exit?
Playing in neighboring Germany will mean a strong showing by supporters of Raymond Domenech's men, which should bode well for them. Never lacking for skilled players, France perhaps gained an extra edge eight years ago with the support of their home fans. Replicating their tough-minded defensive play, creative offensive movements, and crowd support from their title run would make this French team a force to be reckoned with heading towards the final match in Berlin on July 9th.
Also benefiting Les Bleus is a winnable group. Deservedly the heavy favorites in Group G, the French will have their sights set much further than simply reaching the Round of 16.
Key Player - Fabien Barthez
Perhaps no position on the French squad has been under as much scrutiny and speculation as the goalkeeper. Fabien Barthez has been given the starting role again over Gregory Coupet of Lyon. If Barthez can display the same form that brought Les Bleus World Cup success, Domenech will look like a genius for his decision. If, on the other hand, he has any of the wild displays of adventure away from his goal mouth for which he is famous, it could be a short trip to Germany this summer.
What to Watch For
France remains an enigma. Can they play like the clear Group G favorites that they are? Or will they repeat the same inconsistent form that put qualification in doubt until the very end? Their toughest group game is their opener against the upstart Swiss. But regardless of form, there's little doubt that the French will make the Round of 16 in this easy group. Should they avoid the Spanish in the Round of 16, it should be clear sailing to the quarterfinals.
South Korea
The home cooking was good for South Korea at World Cup 2002. Spurred on by tremendous fan support, the Koreans were surprising semifinalists in 2002. That accomplishment is perhaps less impressive when you consider the fortunate refereeing decision they received in games against Italy and Spain along the way. Still, the level of excitement and expectations have never been higher for South Korea. A recent survey shows that 94% of South Koreans anticipate at least a Round of 16 appearance by the Asian Tigers.
The biggest difference this time around, besides playing away from home soil, is the departure of Dutch coach Guus Hiddink. Hiddink is a miracle worker of sorts with less talented teams, and his replacement, fellow Dutchman Dick Advocaat, has big shoes to fill. The Koreans' success in 2002 saw many of their players earn moves to Europe, but unfortunately a good number of those, such as forwards Ahn Jung-Hwan and Cha Du-Ri, spend most of their time at their clubs on the bench. However in left back Lee Young-Pyo (Tottenham) and midfielder Park Ji-Sung (Manchester Utd), Advocaat has at least two veteran, world class players to depend on. Advocaat's 4-3-3 will encourage the Asian Tigers to push forward and create opportunities as well.
Key Player - Park Ji-Sung
After settling in at Manchester United, Park became one of the most exciting new players in the English Premier League last term. Known as "The Worker" to United fans, Park has held his own as the first Korean player in the EPL. His versatility - he can play as a holding midfielder, attacking midfielder, or on either wing - makes him a real asset for South Korea. Known for his fitness, strong work ethic, and good attitude, Park will have added responsibility as a playmaking central midfielder with the Koreans. With questions up front, South Korea may also need Park to chip in the odd goal or two should they want to make the Round of 16.
What to Watch For
Obviously, South Korea must win its opening game against Togo. They won't be favored against the French, but expect them to put up a good fight. The key game could be the final contest against the Swiss, which could see the winner make the Round of 16. The Koreans proved they aren't to be taken lightly four years ago. Now they have to prove they can beat top competition away from home.
Switzerland
Switzerland is doing a fine job of building their national team into one that will consistently qualify for World Cups and European Championships for years to come. What's helped propel the Swiss into being a consistent performer is the recruitment of players from other far away lands or parentage with ties to Switzerland. While always organized and efficient, the Swiss always lacked the flair and power to put them over the top. Thanks to their new players, like Ivory Coast-born Johan Djourou. that's no longer the case. Anyone who watched their bitter, rough playoff victory over Turkey will attest to that. Kobi Kuhn, the first Swiss-born manager of the team in over a decade, should be congratulated for his fine work in building this squad back into the power it was in the 1930s.
The team is solid down the spine. Philippe Senderos has grown into a fine centerback. Johan Vogel, while frustrated on the bench at AC Milan, plays inspired football when captaining the Swiss squad. Vogel likes to sit deep, but still is able to quarterback the Swiss attack from his position. Up front, Alexander Frei, once only famous for spitting at Steven Gerrard at Euro 2004, has rebuilt his reputation and was the top goalscorer in Ligue 1 in 2004/05. Switzerland still stays true to its defensive roots, but this squad has enough creativity and skill to give teams fits on the other end of the pitch.
Key Player - Philippe Senderos
Senderos has emerged as one of the finest young defenders in the world in the last two seasons. His fine play at Arsenal has the Gunners considering off-loading Sol Campbell this summer. A natural leader, Senderos is good both on the ground and in the air. He's shown a good knack of learning from his mistakes and constantly improving. His distribution from the back leaves a bit to be desired. However, he possesses all of the other skills one would look for in a defender. It will be a lot of fun to see him lock horns with his club teammate, Thierry Henry, on June 13.
What to Watch For
Switzerland won't be afraid of France on June 13. The teams drew both games they played in qualifying. If the Swiss can get a point off of the French, they'll be in good shape to make the Round of 16. If they lose, then they'll have to beat both Togo and South Korea to move on. The defense looks good, but goalscoring could be a bit of a concern. Still, the Round of 16 looks very attainable for the Swiss.
Togo
Not much is expected from World Cup debutante Togo in 2006. The Sparrow Hawks were the biggest surprise among the African qualifiers. Unfortunately, nothing has gone right for Togo following qualification. The coach that led them to their greatest achievement was sacked following Togo's dismal performance at the African Cup of Nations. In that tournament, star forward Emmanuel Adebayor openly fought with the Sparrow Hawks' coach and lost the respect of his teammates. Then there was a dispute over wages that the players would earn this summer. To put it mildly, it's been a rough six months for the Togolese.
But with their first World Cup ahead of them, spirits will be up. The caustic Adebayor was stellar in qualifying, leading all scorers in Africa. A 3-5-2 formation from German coach Otto Pfister will attempt to clog up the midfield to subdue the classy French, speedy Koreans, and counterattacking Swiss. Unfortunately, Togo will likely have a tough go of it this summer. Points will be tough to come by.
Key Player - Emmanuel Adebayor
In qualifying, you had to remind yourself that this budding star was only 21. Now 22, Adebayor unfortunately has shown his immaturity in recent months. With his poor attitude, he was very much responsible for the troubles Togo endured at the African Cup of Nations. Togo will hope his January move to Arsenal, where he was surrounded by classy veterans, will have helped to instill some maturity in Adebayor. He will need to be at his very best if the Sparrow Hawks have a prayer at getting any points in Germany.
What to Watch For
Togo will be right there in the running for finishing dead last at this World Cup. African football has improved by leaps and bounds, and it's very impressive that a team like Togo qualified ahead of Senegal. But Togo simply hasn't the class or skill to compete with its Group G foes. The Sparrow Hawks will struggle to score a goal, let alone earn any points.
Photos courtesy of football.co.uk, wsoccer.com, footcoreen.com, wikipedia.org, and parlonsfoot.com. Group G isn't the most exciting of groups, but we'll still watch. Let us know what you think at bookableoffense@gmail.com.
posted by Brian at 6/07/2006 08:37:00 PM 
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home