American Samoa 1 Cook Islands 1
American Samoa continued its amazing run, opening up strong against the Cook Islands by creating numerous scoring chances. The lowest-ranked side in the world took the lead in the 24th minute courtesy of Shalom Luani and had several opportunities to extend it, but could not convert.
The second half was a different story, American Samoa was still the better side, but began to tire as the match wore on, allowing Cook Islands to claw its way back into it. They did equalize in the 62nd minute thanks to an own-goal.
American Samoa can now qualify for round two with a win on Saturday while Cook Islands have been eliminated.
Samoa 1 Tonga 1
Samoa missed an opportunity to take control of the group, allowing Tonga to peg back for a 1-1 draw.
Shaun Easthope had given the Samoans the lead by converting a penalty kick with less than five minutes left in the first half. Samoa had a golden chance to go two up, but a corner kick was cleared off the line by Tonga.
Tonga eventually found its footing in the second half and began to create chances. They finally equalized in the 81st minute, Lokoua Taufahema headed home a free kick with the keeper caught out of position and both sides shared the spoils.
Samoa will play American Samoa for the right to advance to the second round while Tonga has been eliminated and finishes up against the Cook Islands.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
American Samoa and Samoa Win Openers
American Samoa 2 Tonga 1
It was a historic opener to the first round of Oceania qualifying as American Samoa picked up its first win ever.
Ramin Ott was the hero, scoring in the 44th minute, to give Thomas Rongen a lead in his first match at the helm. Never before had American Samoa scored more than one goal in a FIFA match and in the 74th minute Shalom Luani sent the side into dreamland with a goal that will go down in the annals of Oceania history.
Tonga made the Samoans work for it in the end, pulling a goal back in the 87th minute cohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifurtesy of Unaloto Ki Atenoa Feao. They had one great chance to equalize, but goalkeeper Nicky Salapu made a fantastic save to preserve the famous win.
Samoa 3 Cook Islands 2
Samoa made it a big day for teams ranked at the foot of the FIFA World Rankings, scoring a late goal in added time for a 3-2 victory.
It was a back and forth match with Samoa taking the lead twice through Luki Gosche, only to be pegged back each time by Campbell Bell for Cook Islands.
Just when the match appeared headed for a share of the spoils, Albert Bell popped up to score the winner in the 92nd minute and hand the hosts all three points.
This win now sets up the juicy possibility of a winner-take-all match on Saturday between America Samoa and Samoa should they each win their games on Tuesday.
It was a historic opener to the first round of Oceania qualifying as American Samoa picked up its first win ever.
Ramin Ott was the hero, scoring in the 44th minute, to give Thomas Rongen a lead in his first match at the helm. Never before had American Samoa scored more than one goal in a FIFA match and in the 74th minute Shalom Luani sent the side into dreamland with a goal that will go down in the annals of Oceania history.
Tonga made the Samoans work for it in the end, pulling a goal back in the 87th minute cohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifurtesy of Unaloto Ki Atenoa Feao. They had one great chance to equalize, but goalkeeper Nicky Salapu made a fantastic save to preserve the famous win.
Samoa 3 Cook Islands 2
Samoa made it a big day for teams ranked at the foot of the FIFA World Rankings, scoring a late goal in added time for a 3-2 victory.
It was a back and forth match with Samoa taking the lead twice through Luki Gosche, only to be pegged back each time by Campbell Bell for Cook Islands.
Just when the match appeared headed for a share of the spoils, Albert Bell popped up to score the winner in the 92nd minute and hand the hosts all three points.
This win now sets up the juicy possibility of a winner-take-all match on Saturday between America Samoa and Samoa should they each win their games on Tuesday.
Monday, November 21, 2011
OFC Qualifying Begins
The minnows of Oceania get their qualifying campaigns underway today, with the four lowest-ranked nations competing in a round-robin tournament.
American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa and Tonga will all play one another over the next week for the right to win the group and advance to the second round. They will join the rest of the Oceania nations in the second round. The teams that have a bye to round two are New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Tahiti, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.
Here is a brief look at the sides competing in round one.
American Samoa
FIFA rank: 203
Traditionally regarded as the worst team in FIFA, coming into qualifying American Samoa have never won, drawn or even led a FIFA sanctioned match. The side's only ever win was a non-sanctioned match way back in 1983 against Wallis and Fatuana.
The side is best known for its humiliating 31-0 defeat to Australia in qualifying for the 2002 World Cup, the largest margin in history. Thomas Rongen, the former head coach of the United States' U-20 team, is the new manager of the side.
American Samoa is hosting the tournament and will hope that the friendly confines will help them obtain its first ever points in qualifying.
Cook Islands
FIFA rank: 196
The Cook Islands are probably one of the two favorites to advance from this tournament, although that really is not saying much. They are the highest ranked team in the tournament, with 10 points good enough for 196th.
The team's first ever match was a 30-0 defeat to Tahiti in 1971. They have gotten considerably better since and did win one match in 2010 qualifying.
In the opening match of its tournament, the Cook Islands will face Samoa in a match that could be the difference in deciding the group.
Tonga
FIFA rank: 201
Tonga only has three ranking points or else they would join the five nations who are ranked 203rd with zero points, which means zero wins in the last four years.
This minnow only had one win in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup, a 4-0 victory against American Samoa. They also lost to Samoa 2-1 in that edition.
Similar to American Samoa, they suffered an awful defeat to Australia in 2002 qualifying, 22-0. While this is a wide open tournament filled with four minnows do not expect Tonga to be the one that advances.
Samoa
FIFA rank: 203
Despite being ranked joint-last in FIFA, Samoa may be the team most likely to win the tournament.
Way back in 2007, the side defeated fellow group members American Samoa and Tonga in qualifying. While that is nothing to write home about, it may be enough to get the job done in this group as six points could win it.
Recently, Samoa played one of the better islands in Oceania, Fiji, twice and lost only 3-0 and 5-1, a much better result than what the other sides in this tournament would likely produce.
Predicted Group Winner: Samoa
American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa and Tonga will all play one another over the next week for the right to win the group and advance to the second round. They will join the rest of the Oceania nations in the second round. The teams that have a bye to round two are New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Tahiti, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.
Here is a brief look at the sides competing in round one.
American Samoa
FIFA rank: 203
Traditionally regarded as the worst team in FIFA, coming into qualifying American Samoa have never won, drawn or even led a FIFA sanctioned match. The side's only ever win was a non-sanctioned match way back in 1983 against Wallis and Fatuana.
The side is best known for its humiliating 31-0 defeat to Australia in qualifying for the 2002 World Cup, the largest margin in history. Thomas Rongen, the former head coach of the United States' U-20 team, is the new manager of the side.
American Samoa is hosting the tournament and will hope that the friendly confines will help them obtain its first ever points in qualifying.
Cook Islands
FIFA rank: 196
The Cook Islands are probably one of the two favorites to advance from this tournament, although that really is not saying much. They are the highest ranked team in the tournament, with 10 points good enough for 196th.
The team's first ever match was a 30-0 defeat to Tahiti in 1971. They have gotten considerably better since and did win one match in 2010 qualifying.
In the opening match of its tournament, the Cook Islands will face Samoa in a match that could be the difference in deciding the group.
Tonga
FIFA rank: 201
Tonga only has three ranking points or else they would join the five nations who are ranked 203rd with zero points, which means zero wins in the last four years.
This minnow only had one win in qualifying for the 2010 World Cup, a 4-0 victory against American Samoa. They also lost to Samoa 2-1 in that edition.
Similar to American Samoa, they suffered an awful defeat to Australia in 2002 qualifying, 22-0. While this is a wide open tournament filled with four minnows do not expect Tonga to be the one that advances.
Samoa
FIFA rank: 203
Despite being ranked joint-last in FIFA, Samoa may be the team most likely to win the tournament.
Way back in 2007, the side defeated fellow group members American Samoa and Tonga in qualifying. While that is nothing to write home about, it may be enough to get the job done in this group as six points could win it.
Recently, Samoa played one of the better islands in Oceania, Fiji, twice and lost only 3-0 and 5-1, a much better result than what the other sides in this tournament would likely produce.
Predicted Group Winner: Samoa
Friday, November 18, 2011
CONMEBOL Matchday Four Highlights
Colombia 1 Argentina 2
Colombia let a halftime lead slip away while Argentina picked up a valuable three points that helps the side stabilize its campaign. Dorlan Pabon put Colombia ahead in the 45th minute, but Lionel Messi equalized on the hour mark. Six minutes from time Sergio Aguero got the winner that sees Argentina go joint top in South America.
Ecuador 2 Peru 0
Ecuador picked up its second win of qualifying at home with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Peru. Edison Mendez struck in the 70th minute, which put Ecuador ahead. Christian Benitez made sure of the three points when he scored his second goal of qualifying in the 89th. Ecuador now sits in fourth in qualifying while Peru rests all the way back in eighth.
Chile 2 Paraguay 0
Chile rebounded from its 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Uruguay by bouncing back with a 2-0 triumph against Paraguay. Pablo Contreras gave the hosts the advantage in the 28th minute. Matias Campos then doubled Chile's lead late to make sure of the three points. Chile now rests in fifth place while Paraguay's struggles continue and they sit in seventh.
Venezuela 1 Bolivia 0
Venezuela moved into third place with a narrow 1-0 win against Bolivia, who remains at the foot of the table. The lone goal of the match was scored in the 24th minute by Oswalso Vizcarrondo who headed in a corner kick.
Colombia let a halftime lead slip away while Argentina picked up a valuable three points that helps the side stabilize its campaign. Dorlan Pabon put Colombia ahead in the 45th minute, but Lionel Messi equalized on the hour mark. Six minutes from time Sergio Aguero got the winner that sees Argentina go joint top in South America.
Ecuador 2 Peru 0
Ecuador picked up its second win of qualifying at home with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Peru. Edison Mendez struck in the 70th minute, which put Ecuador ahead. Christian Benitez made sure of the three points when he scored his second goal of qualifying in the 89th. Ecuador now sits in fourth in qualifying while Peru rests all the way back in eighth.
Chile 2 Paraguay 0
Chile rebounded from its 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Uruguay by bouncing back with a 2-0 triumph against Paraguay. Pablo Contreras gave the hosts the advantage in the 28th minute. Matias Campos then doubled Chile's lead late to make sure of the three points. Chile now rests in fifth place while Paraguay's struggles continue and they sit in seventh.
Venezuela 1 Bolivia 0
Venezuela moved into third place with a narrow 1-0 win against Bolivia, who remains at the foot of the table. The lone goal of the match was scored in the 24th minute by Oswalso Vizcarrondo who headed in a corner kick.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
CONMEBOL Matchday Three Highlights
Argentina 1 Bolivia 1
Argentina slumped to yet another disappointing result in World Cup qualifying, drawing 1-1 with Bolivia at home. Hard work an a tidy left-footed finish by Marcelo Moreno in the second half gave the away side a shock lead. Ezequiel Lavezzi, the striker for Napoli in Serie A, spared Argentina's blushes with an equalizer five minutes later. However, a side with the talent that Argentina has should really be winning this match comfortable. It appears Argentina will be in another battle just to reach the field in 2014.
Uruguay 4 Chile 0
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez put in a sterling performance scoring all four goals for the high-powered Uruguayan attack. Suarez scored his first two in the last five minutes of the first half, putting the Chileans on the back foot. Chile's own vaunted attack was unable to create much and were left exposed at the back as Suarez added his second two in the 68th and 74th minute. Uruguay remains unbeaten in qualifying while Chile fell to its second defeat in its first three matches.
Colombia 1 Venezuela 1
Frank Feltscher equalized in the 79th minute for Venezuela to help them pick up an important away point in Colombia. Fredy Guarin had given the Colombia the early lead in the 11th minute with a rasping drive from distance. The rest of the first half was all Colombia and they were unlucky not to add a second.The home side continued to press in the second 45, and had a goal correctly disallowed due to an offside call. Unfortunately for Colombia, they allowed Feltscher to get behind the backline where he calmly finished by the keeper. Colombia missed a golden chance to win the match late, hitting the bar in the 90th minute.
Paraguay 2 Ecuador 1
After a rough October, Paraguay finally picked up its first win of qualifying 2-1 over Ecuador. Paraguay used set-pieces to its advantage, with both of its goals coming from those situations. Cristian Riveros gave the hosts the lead just two minutes into the second half, tapping home a cross from a free kick in at the far post. Ten minutes later they were at it again. Dario Veron was the first to reach a corner kick played in and his header was powerful enough to elude the keeper's dive. Ecuador pulled a goal back late through Joao Rojas, but it was not enough.
Argentina slumped to yet another disappointing result in World Cup qualifying, drawing 1-1 with Bolivia at home. Hard work an a tidy left-footed finish by Marcelo Moreno in the second half gave the away side a shock lead. Ezequiel Lavezzi, the striker for Napoli in Serie A, spared Argentina's blushes with an equalizer five minutes later. However, a side with the talent that Argentina has should really be winning this match comfortable. It appears Argentina will be in another battle just to reach the field in 2014.
Uruguay 4 Chile 0
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez put in a sterling performance scoring all four goals for the high-powered Uruguayan attack. Suarez scored his first two in the last five minutes of the first half, putting the Chileans on the back foot. Chile's own vaunted attack was unable to create much and were left exposed at the back as Suarez added his second two in the 68th and 74th minute. Uruguay remains unbeaten in qualifying while Chile fell to its second defeat in its first three matches.
Colombia 1 Venezuela 1
Frank Feltscher equalized in the 79th minute for Venezuela to help them pick up an important away point in Colombia. Fredy Guarin had given the Colombia the early lead in the 11th minute with a rasping drive from distance. The rest of the first half was all Colombia and they were unlucky not to add a second.The home side continued to press in the second 45, and had a goal correctly disallowed due to an offside call. Unfortunately for Colombia, they allowed Feltscher to get behind the backline where he calmly finished by the keeper. Colombia missed a golden chance to win the match late, hitting the bar in the 90th minute.
Paraguay 2 Ecuador 1
After a rough October, Paraguay finally picked up its first win of qualifying 2-1 over Ecuador. Paraguay used set-pieces to its advantage, with both of its goals coming from those situations. Cristian Riveros gave the hosts the lead just two minutes into the second half, tapping home a cross from a free kick in at the far post. Ten minutes later they were at it again. Dario Veron was the first to reach a corner kick played in and his header was powerful enough to elude the keeper's dive. Ecuador pulled a goal back late through Joao Rojas, but it was not enough.
AFC Matchday Five Highlights
Group A
Singapore 0 China 4
Singapore's dismal performance in the group stage continued with a resounding 4-0 defeat at home. Despite being eliminated from qualifying, China regained some pride with its big victory. Yu Hai and Li Weifeng scored the first two goals for the Chinese while Zheng Zheng added a late brace.
Jordan 1 Iraq 3
Iraq secured a spot in the fourth round with a comeback 3-1 win in Jordan. The already qualified Jordan took the lead early when Hassan Abdel-Fattah scored yet another goal for the home side. However, Iraq came out a different side in the second half and ran three goals by Jordan. Nashat Akram tallied a brace sandwiched in between the go-ahead goal from Qusay Munir.
Group B
Lebanon 2 South Korea 1
Lebanon continued its miraculous run in round three by pulling an absolutely stunning upset over favorite South Korea. Ali Al Saadi opened the scoring for the hosts in just the fifth minute to give the side confidence. South Korea did equalize in the 20th minute when Koo Ja-Cheol successfully converted a penalty kick. Lebanon won a penalty of its own 10 minutes later, and Abbas Ali Atwi knocked it home. The win now moves Lebanon into second place in the group and leaves it wide open for the final fixture day in February.
Kuwait 2 U.A.E. 1
Kuwait saved its chances of making the fourth round of qualifying by coming back from a 1-0 deficit at home to the U.A.E. The U.A.E. appeared headed for its first points of the round when Ismail Matar knocked one home in the 18th minute. After the halftime break, Kuwait began to play its way back into the match. Fahad Al Enzi tied the score in the 49th minute and Kuwait got the game-winner courtesy of an own-goal in the 68th minute.
Group C
North Korea 1 Japan 0
The already eliminated North Korea picked up its second win of the third round against the mighty Japan, who were resting several players. Pak Nam-Choi had the only strike of the match in the 50th minute. North Korea had to hold on for the final 13 minutes with 10 men as well.
Uzbekistan 3 Tajikistan 0
Uzbekistan moved back into first place in group C courtesy of a comfortable 3-0 victory over lowly Tajikistan. Sanzhar Tursunov, Odil Ahmedov and Alexander Geynrikh had the goals for Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, this campaign can not end quick enough for Tajikistan who still have not scored a goal in this round.
Group D
Thailand 0 Australia 1
Australia clinched its spot in the fourth round of qualifying thanks to a narrow 1-0 win in Thailand. After a scoreless first half Brett Holman struck in the 76th minute for the only goal of the match. Thailand now needs to win its final match in Oman in order to have a shot at joining Australia in the next round.
Saudi Arabia 0 Oman 0
In a critical match for each side, neither Saudi Arabia nor Oman could put a shot in the back of the net and each were left to rue a missed opportunity to take control of the second spot in group D. Saudi Arabia still remains there, but only by one point over Oman and two ahead of Thailand.
Group E
Indonesia 1 Iran 4
Iran is now assured of progression to the fourth round after easily dispatching Indonesia on the road. After 25 minutes Iran was already three goals up and able to cruise to victory. Milad Meydavoudi had the opener in the seventh minute followed by strikes from Mojtaba Jabbari and Gholamreza Rezaei just minutes apart. Indonesia pulled a goal back right on the brink of halftime courtesy of Bambang Pamungkas to make it 3-1. Iran ended any slim hope of an Indonesia fightback in the 72nd when Javad Nekounam converted a penalty.
Qatar 0 Bahrain 0
Bahrain may have missed its chance to finish ahead of Qatar by failing to pick up all three points in this goalless draw. Qatar now remains three points ahead of Bahrain and has a hefty advantage when it comes to goal difference with just one game to go. Both meetings between these two sides in round three resulted in 0-0 draws.
Singapore 0 China 4
Singapore's dismal performance in the group stage continued with a resounding 4-0 defeat at home. Despite being eliminated from qualifying, China regained some pride with its big victory. Yu Hai and Li Weifeng scored the first two goals for the Chinese while Zheng Zheng added a late brace.
Jordan 1 Iraq 3
Iraq secured a spot in the fourth round with a comeback 3-1 win in Jordan. The already qualified Jordan took the lead early when Hassan Abdel-Fattah scored yet another goal for the home side. However, Iraq came out a different side in the second half and ran three goals by Jordan. Nashat Akram tallied a brace sandwiched in between the go-ahead goal from Qusay Munir.
Group B
Lebanon 2 South Korea 1
Lebanon continued its miraculous run in round three by pulling an absolutely stunning upset over favorite South Korea. Ali Al Saadi opened the scoring for the hosts in just the fifth minute to give the side confidence. South Korea did equalize in the 20th minute when Koo Ja-Cheol successfully converted a penalty kick. Lebanon won a penalty of its own 10 minutes later, and Abbas Ali Atwi knocked it home. The win now moves Lebanon into second place in the group and leaves it wide open for the final fixture day in February.
Kuwait 2 U.A.E. 1
Kuwait saved its chances of making the fourth round of qualifying by coming back from a 1-0 deficit at home to the U.A.E. The U.A.E. appeared headed for its first points of the round when Ismail Matar knocked one home in the 18th minute. After the halftime break, Kuwait began to play its way back into the match. Fahad Al Enzi tied the score in the 49th minute and Kuwait got the game-winner courtesy of an own-goal in the 68th minute.
Group C
North Korea 1 Japan 0
The already eliminated North Korea picked up its second win of the third round against the mighty Japan, who were resting several players. Pak Nam-Choi had the only strike of the match in the 50th minute. North Korea had to hold on for the final 13 minutes with 10 men as well.
Uzbekistan 3 Tajikistan 0
Uzbekistan moved back into first place in group C courtesy of a comfortable 3-0 victory over lowly Tajikistan. Sanzhar Tursunov, Odil Ahmedov and Alexander Geynrikh had the goals for Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, this campaign can not end quick enough for Tajikistan who still have not scored a goal in this round.
Group D
Thailand 0 Australia 1
Australia clinched its spot in the fourth round of qualifying thanks to a narrow 1-0 win in Thailand. After a scoreless first half Brett Holman struck in the 76th minute for the only goal of the match. Thailand now needs to win its final match in Oman in order to have a shot at joining Australia in the next round.
Saudi Arabia 0 Oman 0
In a critical match for each side, neither Saudi Arabia nor Oman could put a shot in the back of the net and each were left to rue a missed opportunity to take control of the second spot in group D. Saudi Arabia still remains there, but only by one point over Oman and two ahead of Thailand.
Group E
Indonesia 1 Iran 4
Iran is now assured of progression to the fourth round after easily dispatching Indonesia on the road. After 25 minutes Iran was already three goals up and able to cruise to victory. Milad Meydavoudi had the opener in the seventh minute followed by strikes from Mojtaba Jabbari and Gholamreza Rezaei just minutes apart. Indonesia pulled a goal back right on the brink of halftime courtesy of Bambang Pamungkas to make it 3-1. Iran ended any slim hope of an Indonesia fightback in the 72nd when Javad Nekounam converted a penalty.
Qatar 0 Bahrain 0
Bahrain may have missed its chance to finish ahead of Qatar by failing to pick up all three points in this goalless draw. Qatar now remains three points ahead of Bahrain and has a hefty advantage when it comes to goal difference with just one game to go. Both meetings between these two sides in round three resulted in 0-0 draws.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
AFC Matchday Four Highlights
Group A
Jordan 2 Singapore 0
A capacity crowd of 19,000 watched Jordan clinch a spot in the fourth round of Asian qualifying with a 2-0 win over the already eliminated Singapore. Ahmed Hayel scored the first goal on a great solo run and Amer Deeb added his fourth goal of qualifying in the second half.
Iraq 1 China 0
Playing in Qatar, Iraq all but locked up the other advancement spot in this group thanks to a 92nd minute goal from Younis Mahmoud. For China, it appears to be the end of another disappointing qualifying campaign for the world's most populous country and possibly the end of the brief reign of Jose Antonio Camacho as manager.
Group B
U.A.E. 0 South Korea 2
U.A.E.'s miserable group stage continued with another loss to South Korea by a 2-0 scoreline. They did put in a better performance this time around however, holding the Koreans scoreless for the first 88 minutes. Then, South Korea finally made the breakthrough thanks to Lee Keun-Ho before star player Park Chu-Young added another in injury time.
Kuwait 0 Lebanon 1
Lebanon's stunning journey continued with yet another upset win. This 1-0 road victory puts them in contention for advancing out of the group, a notion that would have been laughed at prior to the start of group play. For Kuwait, they started off so brightly in this round, but now face a fierce scrap to get out of the group.
Group C
Tajikistan 0 Japan 4
Japan clinched progression to the next round in style with another rout of Tajikistan. Shinji Okazaki tallied two more goals in the 4-0 victory, bringing his total to five in qualifying. Yasuyuki Konno and Ryoichi Maeda were the other goalscorers for the 2011 Asian Cup champions. Meanwhile, Tajikistan still has not scored a goal in the group stage while conceding 17.
Uzbekistan 1 North Korea 0
Uzbekistan remained unbeaten in its qualifying campaign while securing a spot in the fourth round with a 1-0 victory against North Korea. Timur Kapadze had the lone goal of the match early in the second half. The North Koreans become the first side that reached the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be eliminated in qualifying for the 2014 edition.
Group D
Oman 1 Australia 0
A sparse crowd of under 5,000 witnessed possibly the biggest shock of the third round as Oman clawed its way back into the thick of things in group D with a stunning 1-0 triumph over mighty Australia. Amad Al Hosni was the hero for the home side as his goal early in the match proved to be the difference. The loss is the first for Australia in qualifying while it is also Oman's first win of round three.
Saudi Arabia 3 Thailand 0
It took Saudi Arabia almost an hour, but they finally should glimpses of the quality side they have been for so long. Naif Hazazi, Ahmed Al-Fraidi and Mohammed Noor helped power the Saudi's offense with goals. The win will help alleviate some fears in the Saudi camp, but they still have work to do if they are to advance. Thailand's dreams took a major hit, however they are still in decent position if they can get the results they need.
Group E
Qatar 4 Indonesia 0
Qatar cruised to a comfortable 4-0 win over the eliminated Indonesia at home. Mohammed Razak opened the scoring with a half hour gone in the match before Khalfan Ibrahim added the first of his two goals just a few minutes later. Sebastian Soria was the final goalscorer for the 2022 World Cup hosts who are in line to be the second team to advance out of group E. Meanwhile, Indonesia is still pointless in the third round and has not solved its defensive frailties yet.
Bahrain 1 Iran 1
Iran snatched a draw in Bahrain at the very last second to remain unbeaten in qualifying at stay at the top of group E. Bahrain seemed poised for the upset after taking the lead right before the halftime break through Mahmood Al Ajmi. However, Iran equalized in added time thanks to Mojtaba Jabbari. The draw deals a serious blow to Bahrain's chances of advancing to the fourth round.
Jordan 2 Singapore 0
A capacity crowd of 19,000 watched Jordan clinch a spot in the fourth round of Asian qualifying with a 2-0 win over the already eliminated Singapore. Ahmed Hayel scored the first goal on a great solo run and Amer Deeb added his fourth goal of qualifying in the second half.
Iraq 1 China 0
Playing in Qatar, Iraq all but locked up the other advancement spot in this group thanks to a 92nd minute goal from Younis Mahmoud. For China, it appears to be the end of another disappointing qualifying campaign for the world's most populous country and possibly the end of the brief reign of Jose Antonio Camacho as manager.
Group B
U.A.E. 0 South Korea 2
U.A.E.'s miserable group stage continued with another loss to South Korea by a 2-0 scoreline. They did put in a better performance this time around however, holding the Koreans scoreless for the first 88 minutes. Then, South Korea finally made the breakthrough thanks to Lee Keun-Ho before star player Park Chu-Young added another in injury time.
Kuwait 0 Lebanon 1
Lebanon's stunning journey continued with yet another upset win. This 1-0 road victory puts them in contention for advancing out of the group, a notion that would have been laughed at prior to the start of group play. For Kuwait, they started off so brightly in this round, but now face a fierce scrap to get out of the group.
Group C
Tajikistan 0 Japan 4
Japan clinched progression to the next round in style with another rout of Tajikistan. Shinji Okazaki tallied two more goals in the 4-0 victory, bringing his total to five in qualifying. Yasuyuki Konno and Ryoichi Maeda were the other goalscorers for the 2011 Asian Cup champions. Meanwhile, Tajikistan still has not scored a goal in the group stage while conceding 17.
Uzbekistan 1 North Korea 0
Uzbekistan remained unbeaten in its qualifying campaign while securing a spot in the fourth round with a 1-0 victory against North Korea. Timur Kapadze had the lone goal of the match early in the second half. The North Koreans become the first side that reached the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be eliminated in qualifying for the 2014 edition.
Group D
Oman 1 Australia 0
A sparse crowd of under 5,000 witnessed possibly the biggest shock of the third round as Oman clawed its way back into the thick of things in group D with a stunning 1-0 triumph over mighty Australia. Amad Al Hosni was the hero for the home side as his goal early in the match proved to be the difference. The loss is the first for Australia in qualifying while it is also Oman's first win of round three.
Saudi Arabia 3 Thailand 0
It took Saudi Arabia almost an hour, but they finally should glimpses of the quality side they have been for so long. Naif Hazazi, Ahmed Al-Fraidi and Mohammed Noor helped power the Saudi's offense with goals. The win will help alleviate some fears in the Saudi camp, but they still have work to do if they are to advance. Thailand's dreams took a major hit, however they are still in decent position if they can get the results they need.
Group E
Qatar 4 Indonesia 0
Qatar cruised to a comfortable 4-0 win over the eliminated Indonesia at home. Mohammed Razak opened the scoring with a half hour gone in the match before Khalfan Ibrahim added the first of his two goals just a few minutes later. Sebastian Soria was the final goalscorer for the 2022 World Cup hosts who are in line to be the second team to advance out of group E. Meanwhile, Indonesia is still pointless in the third round and has not solved its defensive frailties yet.
Bahrain 1 Iran 1
Iran snatched a draw in Bahrain at the very last second to remain unbeaten in qualifying at stay at the top of group E. Bahrain seemed poised for the upset after taking the lead right before the halftime break through Mahmood Al Ajmi. However, Iran equalized in added time thanks to Mojtaba Jabbari. The draw deals a serious blow to Bahrain's chances of advancing to the fourth round.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Jordan and Iraq Take Control
Jordan secured a place in the fourth round of Asian qualifying and continued its winning ways with an easy 2-0 home win over Singapore.
Ahmed Hayal scored in the 15th minute to give the hosts a lead. Singapore struggled to create much in the way of attack with Jordan dominating most of the game. Amer Deeb added a second after the break with the win giving Jordan 12 points from four games.
Iraq all but assured progression, getting a late goal to defeat China 1-0. This match was played in Qatar due to FIFA prohibiting home games being played in Iraq following crowd and infrastructure problems last month.
Younis Mahmoud had the winner for Iraq just into added time. The Middle Eastern side now just needs one point from its final two games to progress to round four.
Ahmed Hayal scored in the 15th minute to give the hosts a lead. Singapore struggled to create much in the way of attack with Jordan dominating most of the game. Amer Deeb added a second after the break with the win giving Jordan 12 points from four games.
Iraq all but assured progression, getting a late goal to defeat China 1-0. This match was played in Qatar due to FIFA prohibiting home games being played in Iraq following crowd and infrastructure problems last month.
Younis Mahmoud had the winner for Iraq just into added time. The Middle Eastern side now just needs one point from its final two games to progress to round four.
Oman Upsets Australia, Saudi Arabia Beats Thailand
Oman played its way back into the group D race with a hugely surprising 1-0 win over favorite Australia. Amad Al Hosni lifted the spirit of the country and galvanized his team with a goal in the 18th minute.
The home side was able to cling to the narrow lead and see out the match, giving them their first win of this round. Although Oman is still in last in the group, they sit just one point out of second. Australia suffered its first defeat of qualifying, but still are in excellent shape at the top of the group.
Saudi Arabia also picked up its first win of the round, pulling ahead late and running three goals by Thailand. The victory moves the Saudis up to second place. Naif Hazazi, Ahmed Al-Fraidi and Mohammed Noor were the goalscorers.
Thailand's great campaign takes a major hit with a loss, but they are still in the thick of the battle. They return home Tuesday to face Australia in a match that could decide the group.
The end of this match was marred by a brawl that was sparked by a Thailand tackle on a Saudi who was running the clock down in the corner.
The home side was able to cling to the narrow lead and see out the match, giving them their first win of this round. Although Oman is still in last in the group, they sit just one point out of second. Australia suffered its first defeat of qualifying, but still are in excellent shape at the top of the group.
Saudi Arabia also picked up its first win of the round, pulling ahead late and running three goals by Thailand. The victory moves the Saudis up to second place. Naif Hazazi, Ahmed Al-Fraidi and Mohammed Noor were the goalscorers.
Thailand's great campaign takes a major hit with a loss, but they are still in the thick of the battle. They return home Tuesday to face Australia in a match that could decide the group.
The end of this match was marred by a brawl that was sparked by a Thailand tackle on a Saudi who was running the clock down in the corner.
South Korea and Lebanon Win in Group B
South Korea kept up its good form in qualifying with a 2-0 victory in the U.A.E. The win eliminates the U.A.E. from advancing out of the group. Meanwhile, South Korea remains at the top of the group and can clinch progression with a win on Tuesday.
The Koreans left it very late in this match, needing an 88th minute strike from Lee Keun-Ho to finally take the lead. In added time, Park Chu-Young scored yet another goal in qualifying that made sure of the three points.
In the other group B contest, Lebanon pulled yet another huge shock, winning in Kuwait 1-0 and moving into second place. Since losing 6-0 in its opening fixture of the group, Lebanon is unbeaten.
Mahmoud El Ali gave the visitors all they needed just before the hour mark and Lebanon was able to hang on for a 1-0 win. Kuwait now must win on Tuesday to stay in contention for the next round.
The Koreans left it very late in this match, needing an 88th minute strike from Lee Keun-Ho to finally take the lead. In added time, Park Chu-Young scored yet another goal in qualifying that made sure of the three points.
In the other group B contest, Lebanon pulled yet another huge shock, winning in Kuwait 1-0 and moving into second place. Since losing 6-0 in its opening fixture of the group, Lebanon is unbeaten.
Mahmoud El Ali gave the visitors all they needed just before the hour mark and Lebanon was able to hang on for a 1-0 win. Kuwait now must win on Tuesday to stay in contention for the next round.
Japan and Uzbekitsan Clinch
Group C in the third round of Asian qualifying was credited with being the group of death. Today it became the first of the five groups to be decided as Japan and Uzbekistan sealed progression to the fourth round with wins.
Japan traveled to bottom dwellers Tajikistan and return home with a comfortable 4-0 victory. Yasuyuki Kono opened the scoring for the visitors late in the first half before Shinji Okazaki added two in the second half sandwiched in between a strike from Ryoichi Maeda.
Uzbekistan secured its place with a 1-0 triumph in North Korea. The lone goal was scored by Timur Kapadze early in the second half. North Korea becomes the first side who made the 2010 World Cup to be eliminated in qualifying.
Japan traveled to bottom dwellers Tajikistan and return home with a comfortable 4-0 victory. Yasuyuki Kono opened the scoring for the visitors late in the first half before Shinji Okazaki added two in the second half sandwiched in between a strike from Ryoichi Maeda.
Uzbekistan secured its place with a 1-0 triumph in North Korea. The lone goal was scored by Timur Kapadze early in the second half. North Korea becomes the first side who made the 2010 World Cup to be eliminated in qualifying.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Do or Die in CONCACAF
With the second round of CONCACAF qualifying wrapping up in the next week, let's take a look at each group and which teams are still fighting for advancement.
The six groups can be broken down into three different categories depending on the standings, so let's take a look at them.
Already Wrapped Up
Group C
1. Panama 9 pts, +10 GD
2. Nicaragua 3 pts, -3 GD
3. Dominica 0 pts, -7 GD
Panama clinched the top spot by winning 5-1 over Nicaragua last month in a group that they were by far the overwhelming favorite. They join Honduras and Cuba in group C in the third round. The Central American side wraps up round two on Tuesday against Dominica.
Nicaragua finishes its qualifying campaign Friday at home to Dominica while the traveling side has two more games left to attempt to grab its first points of qualifying, but may be searching more for its first goal instead.
Group E
1. Guatemala 12 pts, +10 GD
2. Grenada 4 pts, -1 GD
3. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 4 pts, -6 GD
4. Belize 3 pts, -3 GD
Guatemala avoided any scares in its four games, scoring 12 goals and only conceding two. They clinched progression to group A in round three where they will join the USA and Jamaica as of now. The Guatemalans now have the luxury of using its final two games against Grenada in this round to try out new players.
Grenada's difficult and tumultuous qualifying journey concludes with two matches versus the group winners. Vincy Heat and Belize finish their campaigns with two games against each other, and if one nation can take six points they can finish second.
All But Locked Up
Group A
1. El Salvador 12 pts, +10 GD
2. Suriname 7 pts, 0 GD
3. Dominican Republic 4 pts, 0 GD
4. Cayman Islands 0 pts, -9 GD
El Salvador won its first four matches but still has a little work to do in order to ensure the top spot. The Salvadorans only need one point from their two matches with Suriname to clinch first.
Suriname is still ruing missed opportunities in its first four games. They blew a lead in the Dominican Republic that would have them on nine points at this moment. Now they must defeat El Salvador twice in order to shock the world and move onward.
The Dominican Republic will look wrap an improved qualifying performance by defeating the Cayman Islands twice. The Dominicans already have a victory to their credit, a 3-1 win in Suriname. The Cayman's are still searching for their first point and are unlikely to get it.
Group D
1. Canada 10 pts, +13 GD
2. Saint Kitts and Nevis 6 pts, +2 GD
3. Puerto Rico 3 pts, -3 GD
4. Saint Lucia 1 pt, -12 GD
Canada could have clinched first place last matchday, but they stumbled to a 0-0 draw at home to Puerto Rico. However, they are still in excellent shape and only need one draw from their two games with Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Saint Kitts and Nevis will be hugely disappointed that they could not grab some more wins in their first four games. While they are unbeaten, SKN has three draws including one against lowly Saint Lucia. Now they need two wins to upset the Canadians.
Puerto Rico also has three draws, but have not tallied a win thus far. They expect six points in the next two matches with Saint Lucia, which may see them end up second in the group.
A Tight Battle
Group B
1. Guyana 10 pts, +5 GD
2. Trinidad and Tobago 9 pts, +6 GD
3. Bermuda 4 pts, -1 GD
4. Barbados 0 pts, -10 GD
Guyana is clinging to the summit of group B with a narrow one point lead over Trinidad and Tobago. The two sides meet in Guyana Friday, followed by another meeting in T&T Tuesday. Guyana only needs one win to clinch and can also do so by two draws. Trinidad and Tobago is still the favorite, but needs to win both matches.
Bermuda has had a highly successful campaign for such a lowly nation and can finish out with two victories against Barbados. Barbados may have had the most disappointing round two of any nation, not scoring a goal and losing all of its matches to this point.
Group F
1. Antigua and Barbuda 12 pts, +21 GD
2. Haiti 10 pts, +15 GD
3. Curaçao 1 pt, -6 GD
4. U.S. Virgin Islands 0 pts, -30 GD
As expected, this group will come down to the final two games between Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti. Antigua and Barbuda holds a slight advantage at the top of the group thanks to Haiti's draw with Curaçao. If Antigua and Barbuda is able to win on Friday at home, they will clinch winning the group. Two draws will also get the job done for Antigua and Barbuda while Haiti must win both matches.
Curaçao will conclude its campaign with high hopes of winning their first competitive matches when they face the amateurs of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The six groups can be broken down into three different categories depending on the standings, so let's take a look at them.
Already Wrapped Up
Group C
1. Panama 9 pts, +10 GD
2. Nicaragua 3 pts, -3 GD
3. Dominica 0 pts, -7 GD
Panama clinched the top spot by winning 5-1 over Nicaragua last month in a group that they were by far the overwhelming favorite. They join Honduras and Cuba in group C in the third round. The Central American side wraps up round two on Tuesday against Dominica.
Nicaragua finishes its qualifying campaign Friday at home to Dominica while the traveling side has two more games left to attempt to grab its first points of qualifying, but may be searching more for its first goal instead.
Group E
1. Guatemala 12 pts, +10 GD
2. Grenada 4 pts, -1 GD
3. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 4 pts, -6 GD
4. Belize 3 pts, -3 GD
Guatemala avoided any scares in its four games, scoring 12 goals and only conceding two. They clinched progression to group A in round three where they will join the USA and Jamaica as of now. The Guatemalans now have the luxury of using its final two games against Grenada in this round to try out new players.
Grenada's difficult and tumultuous qualifying journey concludes with two matches versus the group winners. Vincy Heat and Belize finish their campaigns with two games against each other, and if one nation can take six points they can finish second.
All But Locked Up
Group A
1. El Salvador 12 pts, +10 GD
2. Suriname 7 pts, 0 GD
3. Dominican Republic 4 pts, 0 GD
4. Cayman Islands 0 pts, -9 GD
El Salvador won its first four matches but still has a little work to do in order to ensure the top spot. The Salvadorans only need one point from their two matches with Suriname to clinch first.
Suriname is still ruing missed opportunities in its first four games. They blew a lead in the Dominican Republic that would have them on nine points at this moment. Now they must defeat El Salvador twice in order to shock the world and move onward.
The Dominican Republic will look wrap an improved qualifying performance by defeating the Cayman Islands twice. The Dominicans already have a victory to their credit, a 3-1 win in Suriname. The Cayman's are still searching for their first point and are unlikely to get it.
Group D
1. Canada 10 pts, +13 GD
2. Saint Kitts and Nevis 6 pts, +2 GD
3. Puerto Rico 3 pts, -3 GD
4. Saint Lucia 1 pt, -12 GD
Canada could have clinched first place last matchday, but they stumbled to a 0-0 draw at home to Puerto Rico. However, they are still in excellent shape and only need one draw from their two games with Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Saint Kitts and Nevis will be hugely disappointed that they could not grab some more wins in their first four games. While they are unbeaten, SKN has three draws including one against lowly Saint Lucia. Now they need two wins to upset the Canadians.
Puerto Rico also has three draws, but have not tallied a win thus far. They expect six points in the next two matches with Saint Lucia, which may see them end up second in the group.
A Tight Battle
Group B
1. Guyana 10 pts, +5 GD
2. Trinidad and Tobago 9 pts, +6 GD
3. Bermuda 4 pts, -1 GD
4. Barbados 0 pts, -10 GD
Guyana is clinging to the summit of group B with a narrow one point lead over Trinidad and Tobago. The two sides meet in Guyana Friday, followed by another meeting in T&T Tuesday. Guyana only needs one win to clinch and can also do so by two draws. Trinidad and Tobago is still the favorite, but needs to win both matches.
Bermuda has had a highly successful campaign for such a lowly nation and can finish out with two victories against Barbados. Barbados may have had the most disappointing round two of any nation, not scoring a goal and losing all of its matches to this point.
Group F
1. Antigua and Barbuda 12 pts, +21 GD
2. Haiti 10 pts, +15 GD
3. Curaçao 1 pt, -6 GD
4. U.S. Virgin Islands 0 pts, -30 GD
As expected, this group will come down to the final two games between Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti. Antigua and Barbuda holds a slight advantage at the top of the group thanks to Haiti's draw with Curaçao. If Antigua and Barbuda is able to win on Friday at home, they will clinch winning the group. Two draws will also get the job done for Antigua and Barbuda while Haiti must win both matches.
Curaçao will conclude its campaign with high hopes of winning their first competitive matches when they face the amateurs of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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