Betrayed yet looking forward

As we all know what happened in the final the only word that comes to mind is Betrayal. I was rooting for France because of Zizou. Of course I had also been drawn in by Ribery and Henry's cutting runs. But when I saw what had happened the next 20 minutes of my life didnt really matter. Seeing Italy celebrate didnt bring goosebumps because of that partial glory feeling one gets by seeing such a celebration. I just sat there, looking at the screen, getting even more upset about Balboa. All the commentators kept score of who the best referees were and how the coaches were doing but all along ESPN needed to keep track on their man, their color guy, Balboa. Everyone I have talked to since the World Cup has agreed, HE WAS HORRIBLE. Even his wikipedia profile talks about him alienating true soccer fans. John Harkes did a great job and, like referees, should have been given the final.

As we turn towards the upcoming European season we actually start here in the states. The USA being the choice destination for teams to get some warm up before the demanding day in and day out grind starts back overseas. Just last week we saw Celtic come over to DC and get a lashing from DC United 4-nil. Lack of fitness clearly showed and temper as well, as celtic were out run and given one red card during the next match. Within the next week we will see the MLS Allstars playing Chelsea FC in Chicago. The MLS team will be coached by the DC Unite Coach Peter Nowak and anchored by 7 DC United players on the 18 player roster.

This just in: Bruce Arena will become the new head coach of Red Bull NY. Which gives him the chance to bring the last place team in the east for the 4th spot in the playoffs and then make a run for the championship, which will most likely happen. He is also replacing the lovable, hugable, and small Richie Williams that was the interim coach and one-time player for Arena at DC United. All the best to the former metrostars. However this brings up the DC v NY feud: How could Bruce ever go against his former club, oh wait, this is the MLS. Nevermind.

Please let the english season start so that I can see some good soccer and get this lingering feeling that nothing good in soccer is happening right now. Of course Chelsea is the team to beat, with signings of Sheva and Ballack, but with Man U's finicial dealings and lack of a strike force and Arsenal dealing with too many stikers and not enough in the back, I am looking at Tottenham to creep up the table. They just brought in Zokora and are linked with bringing in demoted-juve star Pavel Nedved.

Thats all for now but there will be more to come...