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USA vs Scotland and Jurgen Klinsmann’s challenge ahead of next five games
Jurgen Klinsmann will be testing the strength and spirit of USA when he leads his men against Scotland in the first of a series of important games.
The former Germany coach named his final 23-man squad ahead of his three friendlies against Scotland, Brazil and USA, and also his two World Cup qualifying matches against Antigua & Bermuda and Guatemala.Klinsmann initially called up 27 players at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando; but having now made his selection, the entire team is now heading to Jacksonville prior to their Scotland encounter on May 26 at EverBank Field.
For the USA manager, who won his last four international games, the Stars and Stripes can accept nothing other than good results in the Five-Game Tournament, which is supposed to mimic the pressure and consequences of a true tournament.
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher takes extended break from football for health reasons
Scotland international midfielder Darren Fletcher is suffering from a serious abdominal health condition that means he will be taking an extended layoff from competing.
A Manchester United spokesman told BBC Sport that Fletcher “had accepted medical advice to take an extended break.” The Old Trafford source also added that Fletcher was taking the action “in order to afford the best chance possible of achieving full remission once again.”The loss of Fletcher is yet another blow to a United team that is also missing fellow midfielders Tom Cleverley and Anderson. The defensive duo of Rio Ferdinand and captain Nemanja Vidic have also suffered injury problems this season, while striker Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez is ruled out for another three weeks.
While United fans will want to see their club strengthen during the January transfer window, the thoughts of many will be focused on Fletcher achieving a full and safe recovery.
Fletcher hopeful despite Scotland’s awkward position ahead of Spain clash
Scotland will need to put up a historical performance against Spain tonight to reach the UEFA Euro 2012 playoffs and maintain their Poland and Ukraine dreams.
Spain have nothing to play for since they are sure Euro 2012 participants. But Del Bosque’s aim is to guide his team to a perfect run in the qualifiers. The strength in depth of La Roja is so solid that even a second-choice squad could emerge with a confidence-boosting victory against Scotland tonight. Darren Fletcher commented on the titanic clash for his side.
“My experiences with Spanish sides, especially Barcelona, have not been great,” said the Manchester United midfielder according to UEFA.com.
“They [Spain] are the best side in the world – the world and European champions – so we are under no illusions of what we are up against.
Spain vs Scotland Preview
Spain will only look to preserve their perfect home record in the UEFA Euro 2012 Qualifiers. Scotland, however, will be aiming for a place in the play-offs.
The Scots took advantage of Czech Republic’s failure to accomplish their mission against La Roja, on October 7. The Czech were humbled 2-0 at the Stadion Letná in Prague following goals from Juan Mata and Xabi Alonso. That came as pleasant news to Scotland though, who narrowly edged past Liechtenstein at the Rheinpark in Vaduz, the day after.Thanks to the profitable scenario that enfolded at the end of last week, the Scots now occupy the second position in Group I. What they are required to do now is match the Czech’s result so as to end what would be the first phase of their qualification campaign as runners-up. Should they succeed, then they will be participating in the play-offs later in November alongside other teams to determine if they are worthy of tickets for the finals in the summer of 2012.
Liverpool Midfielder Charlie Adam Could be Wildcard for Scotland as they Seek EURO 2012 Qualification
Liverpool FC have a long history of players who have made significant contributions to the Scotland national team. The list of Anfield legends that have starred for the Tartan Army include Graeme Souness, Kenny Dalglish and Alan Hansen.
If Scotland are to qualify for EURO 2012 they will need a new hero, and Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam could be the wildcard for Scotland as they look to upset the odds and reach the Poland/Ukraine tournament.Scotland are currently third placed in EURO 2012 Qualifying Group I behind Spain and the Czech Republic. The Scots are 10 points behind Spain who have already sealed automatic qualification, and are two points behind the second placed Czech Republic.
Scotland could move into a playoff place with win at Lithuania on Saturday, as long as the Czechs lose to Spain the day before.
Wile that scenario is not that unlikely, to seal a playoff spot Scotland must defy the odds during the final qualifying round on October 11. On the final match day the Czech Republic travel to face Lithuania, while Scotland will face World Champions Spain in Alicante.
Scotland vs Brazil Report
A sublime performance by young striker Neymar led Brazil to a 2-0 win over Scotland at the Emirates Stadium in London.
Young Santos striker Neymar showed neat footwork to open the scoring just before half-time, and added a second from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Charlie Adam.Scotland had an early chance to make an impression when captain Kenny Miller was fouled on the edge of the area by Lucio. Blackpool playmaker Adam stepped up to free kick but fired his effort into the defensive wall.
Brazil settled into the game and began to dominate possession, their first clear cut chance came when an Elano cross was headed over the bar by Ramires.
Elano was beginning to pull the string and he released Jadson with a clever through ball, only for Allan McGregor to save and keep the scores level. Galatasaray midfielder Elano then played over a corner that was headed powerfully off the bar by Leandro Damiao.
Scotland vs Brazil Preview
Brazil and Scotland will go head to head at the Emirates Stadium in London, England on Sunday.
Brazil will be looking to bounce back from consecutive 1-0 friendly defeats to Argentina and France. Scotland could grab their third straight win after beating the Faroe Islands and Northern Ireland 3-0 in recent outings.AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato has been ruled out for Brazil due to an ankle injury, while Villarreal striker Nilmar is doubtful with a muscle injury.
Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva should start for Brazil along with Ramires of Chelsea. Young Santos striker Meymar looks set to lead the attacking line for ‘A Seleção.’
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is out injured for Scotland, while Steven Naismith will miss the game due to illness.
Scotland Vs Brazil: I'll Be Happy To Upset Dalglish - Lucas
Brazil midfielder Lucas Leiva has admitted that he could be forced to cause an upset for his Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish if Brazil beat Scotland this Sunday
Lucas stated that this weekend's match against Scotland is very important for Brazil as they seek to return to winning ways after losing the previous international fixtures against France and Argentina. But Lucas was forced to admit that it could be an upset for Kenny Dalglish, who is a Scot himself."It will be a very important game for us,'' said Lucas ahead of Sunday's clash at the Emirates.
"We lost the last games so the pressure is a bit higher. But we have a good team and hopefully we will play a very good match. Hopefully we will play with confidence and I am sure we will have a big opportunity to win and be confident for the rest of the games.''
Scotland vs Brazil: A Chance For Next Superstars Neymar, Luiz & Co To Excel
Scotland vs Brazil presents a fresh opportunity for Brazil’s next generation of superstars to develop even more. The spotlights will be on Neymar, David Luiz, Ganso, Ramires and Lucas.
Gone are the days where Ronaldinho, Kaka, Robinho and Ronaldo were the driving forces behind Brazil’s machine gun. Ronaldo has retired whereas the international career of Ronaldinho, Kaka and Robinho is mysteriously becoming a story of the past – although these three players are yet to draw a line between their football for Brazil and retirement.Call-ups have been rare in recent times for the players that used to be regular faces in Brazil’s senior national team. After the country’s unconvincing showing during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the cry for new blood in the Brazilian team grew up louder. The Canarinho feel they can’t waste more time leaning on the big names only, when new talent is being produced in the country every year.
Scotland vs Brazil: Goalkeeper Craig Gordon Makes Unsafe Declaration
On account of his burning desires to feature in the Scotland vs Brazil friendly, goalkeeper Craig Gordon has declared himself fit to join the Scottish national side for the big match at the Emirates Stadium.
The Sunderland goalie is actually weakened by a disturbing knee injury that requires delicate treatment and a period of rest, but Gordon is confident that getting a feel of his country’s battle against the World Cup quarter-finalists will not damage him any further. Taking into consideration his current poor physical status, there is a great chance that an appearance from the keeper against Brazil will stir up the anger of Sunderland manager Steve Bruce, since the boss is willing to keep his player out of action for the necessary amount of time.Sunderland are presently in the Premier League table’s ninth position, but given that they could slip down at any moment—jeopardizing the team’s defence is certainly not an option for the coach. Apparently, Gordon has realized how unique his opportunity was to face a world-class team such as the giant South Americans, and he is willing to pursue his dream.
Scotland vs Brazil: Charlie Adam Hoping For Reasonable Result At The Emirates
After a humiliating defeat to Arsenal this season at the Emirates Stadium, Blackpool’s Charlie Adam is hoping to get a positive result in the Scotland vs Brazil friendly, on March 27.
An exciting game seven months ago saw Arsenal FC thrash Premier League new comers Blackpool in London, in front of approximately 60,000 watchers. A hat-trick from Theo Walcott, along with useful contributions by Diaby, Arshavin and Chamakh were just what were needed by the Gunners to sink their visitors; but Charlie Adam is looking forward to much better consequences ahead of his next match at the Emirates Stadium for Scotland against Brazil.“We don’t want that sort of thing happening again,” he was quoted saying by the Telegraph. “We want to go and perform because everybody watches Brazil worldwide.”
Scotland vs Brazil: Naismith, Morrison, Pato And Nilmar Hit With Injuries
The Scotland vs Brazil friendly match is supposed to be one not to forget, but considering the numerous withdrawals that have popped up in both sides, doubts are casted on the game’s thrill.
Rangers’ midfielder Steven Naismith suffered damages on his groin and hamstring after playing in the Co-operative Insurance Cup final. He was then forced to pull out from the Scotland squad ahead of the Brazil friendly, but he was followed by some of his country-mates, who also had to withdraw themselves due to a decline in their physical conditions.Sunderland’s Phil Bardsley, Manchester United’s Darren Fletcher and Celtic’s Scott Brown are all anticipated to miss the mouth-watering clash, while West Bromwich Albion midfielder James Morrison is still fighting to make a special appearance.
Scotland vs Northern Ireland Preview
Scotland and Northern Ireland will meet at the Aviva Stadium in the first round of the Carling Nations Cup tournament.
Scotland will be led into battle by star striker Kenny Miller, who was made captain by Craig Levein this week. Miller told the Daily Record being captain of Scotland is “a massive honour,” and warned his teammates what they can expect. “I am bossy, moaning and demanding on the pitch” said the Bursaspor striker.Playmaker Charlie Adam will be in charge of supplying ammunition to Miller, and the Blackpool star could also be playing with Aberdeen striker Chris Maguire, who looks set to make his international debut.
Sunderland’s Craig Gordon and Glasgow Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor will fight it out for a place in the Scotland goal.
Scotland vs Faroe Islands Preview
Scotland will face the Faroe Islands in an International Friendly on Tuesday. Scotland have had some extremely tough games in their UEFA Euro 2012 Qualifying group of late.
During the month of October, a hard fought 1-0 defeat in the Czech Republic was followed up with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss at home to World Champions Spain. The Tartan Army will hope this game provides the fans with a victory and a few goals to celebrate.The Faroe Islands are perennial strugglers and will be underdogs going onto this game. They are rock bottom of their UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying group, but have had some success against British opposition when they held Northern Ireland to a 1-1 draw.
Scotland will field a number of new faces as fatigue and injuries have taken a toll on who is available for selection by Craig Levein. Glasgow Rangers have a heavy schedule and as a result all Rangers have been omitted or withdrawn from the squad for this friendly. This means star players such as Kenny Miller, Allan McGregor and David Weir will not feature.
Scotland vs Faroe Islands Report
Scotland gained a comfortable 3-0 victory over the Faroe Islands courtesy of three first half goals from Liverpool defender Danny Wilson, Kris Commons and Jamie Mackie.
The score remained the same despite Scotland dominating possession in the second half and cruising to victory in front of a disappointing crowd of just over 10,000 at Pittodrie.The game was even in the opening stages with the Faroe Islands playing two up front and setting their stall out to get forward in attack just as much as the home side. The bold approach from the visitors almost paid off inside 10 minutes when Jann Ingi Peterson slammed a long range free kick against the crossbar.
Scotland were stung into life and began to press the play and keep the ball in the Faroe’s half. The Scot’s opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Wilson capped his international debut with a goal as he turned in a Charlie Adam corner.
Scotland vs Spain Report
Spain suffered more than expected to celebrate its third consecutive victory for the Euro2012 qualifiers, this time on the High Lands. David Villa, Andres Iniesta and Fernando Llorente granted Vicente del Bosque an important victory.
Spain struggled hard to overcome Scotland's defensive formation, but Steven Whittaker's granted the visitors a penalty shot at the end of the first half. David Villa's opening goal changed the game and the hosts were forced to adopt a more aggressive strategy not to be left empty-handed.Spain grew stronger on the second half. Andres Iniesta's goal at the 11th minute of the second half could have sentenced a sound defeat for Craig Levein's boys, but Steven Naismith and Gerard Pique -with an own goal- leveled the score for the hosts.
It was once again Fernando Llorente who wore the hero's crown with a powerful shot. Nine points in three matches, 10 goals scored, it's clear the World Champion will not hesitate on defending the European title.
Scotland vs Spain Preview
The Hampden Park will host a clash between Vicente del Bosque's Furious squad and the greedy Scotland. The Scotish should take advantage of this and start adding some units if they want to make to the Euro 2012.
The reigning World and European champion is leading Group I's standings with perfect scoring, an average higher to 3 goals per game and many other figures that will terrorize anyone. Xavi's absence opens up a world of possibilities for the hosts, who would have to struggle hard to reach qualification upon another defeat this Tuesday.Scotland's fittest striker Kenny Miller was substituted against Czech Republic and his performance has not pleased Scotland's coach. Young Jamie Mackie is likely to take over his place, joining Ranger's Steven Naismith on the attack.
Fernando Llorente will most surely be among Spain's starting eleven upon a flawless performance four days ago against Lithuania. Xabi Alonso is back, taking over Santiago Cazorla's place, multiplying the offensive possibilities.
Czech Republic vs Scotland Report
The Czech Republic rebounded from an opening day defeat to register their first Group I win, beating Scotland 1-0 in Prague. The Czech’s faced stern Scottish resistance but a Roman Hubnik header proved enough to earn victory.
The Scot’s made no secret of their intent to try and frustrate the Czech’s and defend in the pregame interviews, but their methods went beyond even what was expected. Coach Craig Levein benched in form goal scorer Kenny Miller and fielded a 4-6-0 formation with no recognized central striker.
Czech Republic vs Scotland Preview
Scotland will face off against the Czech Republic for the second time this year. Back in March, a Scott Brown goal handed Scotland a 1-0 victory in a friendly played at Hampden Park. This time, the Tartan Army make a tougher trip to Prague but will be seeking a similar result.
Slow Start From the Czech'sThe Czech Republic will face pressure to win this fixture after starting their qualifying in disappointing fashion. The Czech’s opened up group play with a home fixture against Lithuania, but went down to a 1-0 defeat courtesy of a Darvydas Sernas header. Milan Baros failed to convert a penalty for the Czech Republic during the game.
Striker Milan Baros will miss the game for the Czech’s, teenage striker Vaclav Kadlec has been called up as replacement and will hope to receive his international debut against the Scot’s.
With Spain also competing in Group I, the Czech Republic will be going all out for a win, as falling behind Scotland could be devastating to their hopes of Euro 2012 qualification. Speaking after the Lithuania disappointment, Czech midfielder Jaroslav Plasil told the UEFA website how important this fixture will be.
Euro 2012 Qualifying – Scotland vs Liechtenstein Match Preview
Scotland host Liechtenstein in a Euro 2012 qualifying match that offers them a decent opportunity to bag quite a number of goals at last.
There were no goals between Scotland and Lithuania last Friday and this is something that definitely needs to change for the Scottish on Tuesday night.
Scotland will have to do without the services of Kirk Broadfoot who picked up a knee injury. But Lee Wallace, Kevin McNaughton, and even Steven Whittaker could feature against Liechtenstein. Speaking ahead of the Scotland vs Liechtenstein encounter, the manager of Tuesday’s hosts stated:
“The result is obviously the most important thing. But, I’m looking to see if there’s something there we can build on, and the answer is most definitely ‘yes’.”
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