IU advances to Elite 8 at Notre Dame Sat 5 pm BTN
The Notre Dames men’s soccer team (12-2-5) will host Indiana (15-4-4, 4-2-2 Big Ten) in the Quarterfinal round of the NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship on Sat Dec 2 . Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. at Alumni Stadium. Unseeded Indiana advanced to the Elite 8 after wins over Lipscomb, and 10th-seeded Wake Forest and Virginia. Tix are on sale now for just $10. The winner will advance to Louisville next weekend for the College Cup Final 4 – an event IU has been to a record 22 times.
Indy 11 Coach Mark Lowry Steps Down
Indy Eleven announced today that it has parted ways with Head Coach Mark Lowry, who is stepping down after two seasons at the helm of the Boys in Blue. Lowry became the fourth permanent head coach in club history on Nov. 16, 2021, and led Indy Eleven to its best season since 2019 with a 12-17-5 record in 2022. The club returned to the playoffs in 2023 for the first time since the 2019 season, as a sixth seed in the Eastern Conference, after finishing the regular-season campaign with a 13-11-10 record. The Boys in Blue have previously announced the initial nine players from the 2023 squad who will return for the 2024 season, as well as additional roster moves, and will continue to announce updates in the weeks ahead.
US Ladies play China Sat 2:30 pm TNT & Tues 7:30 pm
So a new younger roster has been chosen for these 2 games with China this Sat and Tues on TNT. New Manager Emma Hayes has been in Florida training with the new group as she looks for players for the Olympics and beyond – notable absences include Alex Morgan, Sauerbram and longtime GK Alysa Neyher as Hayes looks to the youth from around the world and in NWSL to round out this roster. Will be interesting to see how things look – even though Hayes will only be watching from afar – as she will return to Chelsea to her day job for the weekend. I will sit back and watch rather than predict a starting line-up for Saturday’s game. Hopefully we can be a little more attack minded moving forward – we’ll see. (Ton’s of stories below)
HELL IS REAL – MLS Conference Finals are Saturday on Apple TV Cincy vs Columbus
Not sure how many are watching – I am honestly not watching these all Apple TV playoffs and I am not sure anyone else is either – but this weekend is worth trying to tune in as our 2 closest MLS cities Cincy and Columbus battle it out in Cincy for the Easter Conference Finals Sat at 6 pm on Apple TV. (stories below )
DECEMBER FRIENDLIES VS. CHINA PR
GOALKEEPERS (3): Jane Campbell (Houston Dash; 7), Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit; 1), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage; 16)
DEFENDERS (7): Alana Cook (OL Reign; 29/1), Abby Dahlkemper (San Diego Wave FC; 79/0), Tierna Davidson (Chicago Red Stars; 50/1), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage; 37/1), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave FC; 24/0), Casey Krueger (Chicago Red Stars; 41/0), M.A. Vignola (Angel City FC; 1/0)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Korbin Albert (Paris Saint-Germain, FRA; 0/0), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC; 5/0), Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville FC; 6/0), Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyon, FRA; 137/30), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign; 91/24), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC; 0/0), Jenna Nighswonger (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 0/0), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign; 81/2)
FORWARDS (8): Mia Fishel (Chelsea FC, ENG; 2/1), Ashley Hatch (Washington Spirit; 21/5), Midge Purce (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 24/4), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit; 26/6), Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave FC; 2/1), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns FC; 36/14), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC; 8/0), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 58/17)
Champs League Unkind to American’s Except Pepi who scored It was sad to see Pulisic put in a Man of the Match performance for AC Milan and still have them lose 3-1 to his former club Dortmund basically eliminating AC from moving to the next round. Pulisic started on the left wing and had multiple services in that simply could not be cashed – he even took a few shots himself to no avail. American Teammates Yanus Musah sat because of yellow card accumulation and Dortmund’s Reyna never sniffed the field – man he has got to get out of Dortmund and soon. In other games Celtic and American Carter Vickers is out after losing 2-0. Only PSV advanced on a spectacular night for American Ricardo Pepi who scored this late winner to advance the Dutch team to the next round. Midfielder Tilman and defender Dest also started and played all game in the victory.
One of our top Soccer Pubs around –Union Jacks Pub in Broad Ripple is struggling with all the road closures over the past 2 years – they host the American Outlaws Indy, EPL games on Weekends, Champions League on Weekdays, and of course the EUROS, & World Cups. If you get a chance to swing by and grab a bite and a pint – rather its on gameday or not – I am a sure that would help.
GAMES ON TV
Sat, Dec 2
9:30 am ESPN+ Hoffenhiem vs Mgladbach (Scally)
10 am USA Arsenal vs Wolverhampton
12:30 pm NBC Nottingham Forest vs Everton
2:30 pm TNT, Max, USWNT vs China
3 om USA NewCastle United vs Man United
5 pm ?? Indiana U Men vs Notre Dame – Elite 8
6 pm Apple TV Cincy vs Columbus Crew East Finals
9:30 pm Apple TV LAFC vs Houston West Finals
Sun, Dec 3
9 am USA Chelsea vs Brighton
9 am Cock Liverpool vs Fulham (Ream, Robinson)
11:30 am Cock Man City vs Tottenham
12 noon CBSSN Roma vs Sassuolo
2:45 pm Para+ Napoli vs Inter Milan
Tues, Dec 5
7:30 pm TNT, Max USWNT vs China
MLS Conference Finals Sat/Sun
Wilfried Nancy’s lineup choices paying off for Crew, will that continue vs. FC Cincinnati?
FC Cincinnati’s Luciano Acosta celebrates 2023 MLS MVP award in style at local restaurant
MLS, EPL could introduce ‘sin bins’ to punish players, extend VAR involvement
FC Cincinnati’s Matt Miazga suspended 3 games for ‘misconduct’ after allegedly confronting officials in locker room
Cincinnati’s defender Miazga suspended for rest of MLS playoffs
Reigning MLS champs move a step closer to repeat title
MLS Cincy gets thru Philly on questionable VAR Call – what is a handball anyway
Analysis: Behind big games from Crepeau, Chiellini, and Bouanga, LAFC downs Seattle
US Ladies play Sat 2:30 pm TNT
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes meets with players for first time
Three bold ideas for the USWNT in their final games of 2023
USWNT’s Trinity Rodman: Emma Hayes has been ‘amazing so far’
SSFC Spotlight: Korbin Albert gets chance at senior international level By Brendan Joseph Stars & Stripes
USWNT roster: Who is the future at goalkeeper?
USWNT will honor retired defender Ali Krieger at Dec. 5 game
U.S. still in race to host 2027 World Cup after South Africa withdraws
Scouting China – Stars & Stripes
USWNT player compares World Cup to ‘Hunger Games’ in new Netflix trailer
Trinity Rodman ‘will be watching’ USWNT World Cup docuseries
Sophia Smith, Angel Reese make Forbes’ ‘30 under 30’ list
Racing Louisville FC names Beverly Goebel Yanez, former assistant for club, new head coach
Women’s Nations League: Belgium v Scotland: Scots ‘ready to put things right’, says Howard
US Men
USMNT to play Slovenia in January Camp friendly By Donald Wine II Stars and Stripes
Copa América 2024 opener, final venues announced
‘To see that people really hate us just because of the color of our skin’: Why Juventus duo are talking about mental health
Champions League
Champions League grades: Arsenal earn high marks, Celtic woes drag on
Arsenal attack cuts loose against Lens
Jude Bellingham makes Real history with yet another Champions League goal
Garnacho makes epic bicycle kick goal look easy
Arsenal show how the Champions League should be done – Man Utd and Newcastle take note…
Manchester United on the brink of an early Champions League exit after chaotic draw against Galatasaray
Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd are utterly chaotic – they cannot return to top like this
Madrid finish first after entertaining win over Napoli
Copenhagen grab crucial Champions League point after more VAR drama
Bayern Munich 0-0 FC Copenhagen: Visitors grind out draw to keep last-16 hopes alive
Reffing
Jammy Jean and Jeff Perry and Shane reffing Boys College Showcase games at Grand Park today.
For Christian Pulisic, this hurt. Despite his best efforts, Milan are on the brink
By Greg O’Keeffe The Athletic Nov 29, 20237
At the final whistle, he stood with hands on his hips, head bowed in quiet contemplation.Then, after five seconds, there was a trudge to the centre circle to offer handshakes to the victorious Borussia Dortmund players. For a couple of former colleagues, there was a brief embrace, before an equally slow plod to applaud the AC Milan diehards in the Curva Sud.
ADVERTISEMENT
After all that was done, he was the last player to depart the San Siro pitch.Maybe he was walking so slowly because his legs were sapped after 96 hard-running minutes. Perhaps he was carrying a heavier heart than usual too. For Christian Pulisic, this hurt.The 3-1 loss in Tuesday’s Champions League group game against his former club Borussia Dortmund left Pulisic’s side closer to sliding out of the competition.Champions League Group F
| POS | TEAM | GP | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Borussia Dortmund | 5 | 3 | 10 |
| 2 | Paris Saint-Germain | 5 | 1 | 7 |
| 3 | Newcastle United | 5 | 0 | 5 |
| 4 | Milan | 5 | -4 | 5 |
Milan’s fate is out of their hands; three points against Newcastle United at St James’ Park in their final Group F match next month would only be enough for a Europa League consolidation prize if Paris Saint-Germain avoid defeat against Dortmund, who are already into the round of 16.On Pulisic’s part, it was not through a lack of trying.He had been one of Milan’s top performers on a night that arrived on the back of worrying league form. They have won just once in their past five Serie A games — last Saturday’s underwhelming victory against Fiorentina — and murmurs about manager Stefano Pioli’s future are growing.Pulisic certainly seemed to carry that load on his shoulders afterwards. He left the stadium grim-faced after declining to stop when asked to discuss the game by journalists.https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6FHLmgsgq93G7CfO2ZMrk3?utm_source=generator
Earlier, he had tried to offer a semi-upbeat assessment to ex-New York Red Bulls and Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch, now a pundit for CBS. “We had some really good moments in the game but even after they went and scored we came back, got one back and were really pushing,” said Pulisic.“We had good momentum at the end of the first half going into the second half. There were a few opportunities at the beginning of that second but just couldn’t take advantage. It wasn’t our day.“It’s disappointing. There are some positives we can take out of it but all we can do is focus on winning the last game.”Pulisic, 25, was involved in most of the upsides for a Milan team that has been depleted by injuries to key men, such as forward Rafael Leao. They were already struggling for numbers in defence, with Simon Kjaer out, and lost centre-back Malick Thiaw to injury in the second half. Thiaw later left the stadium on crutches.Tough times call for cool heads and leadership by example, and the U.S. captain offered both.He was deployed on the left of Milan’s front three but, as the hosts started boldly, Pulisic often drifted inside looking for the ball while left-back Theo Hernandez went outside him and remained high up the field.
Christian Pulisic takes on Marius Wolf, left, and Niclas Fullkrug (Jari Pestelacci/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
In a chaotic opening period, Olivier Giroud’s penalty for Milan was saved by Dortmund ’keeper Gregor Kobel, before Marco Reus converted one for the visitors.Pulisic tried to restore some calm, helping the hosts keep the ball and regain some momentum. He was composed and near-immaculate in possession all night, completing 94 per cent of his passes (more than any other forward player who started the game).Dortmund were keenly aware of the threat he brought. Whenever he stretched his legs, there was a yellow shirt close to him, with Mats Hummels skilfully shutting him out as he tried to lead Milan back into the game as the half wore on.But the men in yellow couldn’t always thwart him. There was a roar of appreciation from the Curva Sud on 42 minutes when Pulisic received the ball on his right foot, feinted to go inside and then chopped it onto his left before darting past a stumbling and wrong-footed Julian Ryerson to whip in a cross.Four minutes later, he should have had the first of two assists his creativity warranted, when a superb teasing cross to the back post was headed wide by Davide Calabria.There might have been a spectacular goal of his own in that phase after the break when Milan still threatened a comeback: a superbly executed scissor-kick was diverted behind for a corner.But for Pulisic, there was often frustration — take the 77th minute, when he deftly played the ball to Calabria in Dortmund’s half and burst forward expecting the return pass but the captain lost possession.By then, Dortmund’s clinical counter-attacking had given Milan a mountain to climb. But while some heads dropped, Pulisic tried to keep making things happen.There was another dangerous right-footed cross with seven minutes of normal time left that led to a Milan corner.Then he almost created a late goal with a cross, from which Luka Jovic hit the post.
Pulisic’s final meaningful contribution was to link smartly with fellow former Chelsea team-mate Ruben Loftus-Cheek in a move that forced a strong save from Kobel.If he cut a forlorn figure at the end, his international team-mates Yunus Musah and Giovanni Reyna were not skipping out of the San Siro either. Musah was suspended and watched from the stands; a presumably even more frustrated Reyna was an unused substitute for Dortmund.Musah will resume his influential role in the team after having to sit this out, but the question marks over what Reyna must do to play remain. It did not help his cause that 34-year-old Reus, who plays in the central attacking midfield role Reyna covets, produced a vintage display.
REUS SCORES FROM THE SPOT! 🟡
A CRAZY start at the San Siro, TWO penalties have been taken, Giroud misses for Milan and Reus scores for Dortmund! 😯🙌 pic.twitter.com/blM00dS9nm
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 28, 2023
Pulisic, at least, was in nobody’s shadow. But even in the place where he has revived his career after the stop-start spell in London, nothing is quite straightforward.
His club and international form is peaking, just as Milan’s season falters.
(Top photo: Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images)
Emma Hayes meets with USWNT players and staff in Florida
By Meg LinehanNov 28, 2023 the Athletic
U.S. women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes has made the trip from London to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to meet with players and staff in person for the first time since the formal announcement of her hiring. She will not fully start in her role until the conclusion of her current club Chelsea’s season in May.Interim head coach Twila Kilgore, who will remain on as an assistant coach once Hayes takes over, will lead the USWNT through the last two games of the calendar year and into next spring. The USWNT faces China PR on Dec. 2 in Ft. Lauderdale before finishing the year in Frisco, Texas on Dec. 5.“Everyone is really excited,” defender Naomi Girma said after training on Tuesday. “We feel like we have our direction. We know what we’re building towards now, and it’s all very clear. I think overall we’re just excited to hit the ground running with her.”
USWNT’s camp roster has new names, Dahlkemper return
Captain Lindsey Horan echoed that excitement, though she also noted her support of Kilgore’s guidance at this time. Horan was asked about a column written by Hayes during the World Cup, shortly after the USWNT’s exit during the round of 16. Hayes addressed the structural issues around the team in the article published in The Telegraph — one Horan admitted she had not read — but also that the USWNT suffered from a lack of diversity with most players coming through the NCAA system.
Hayes also called out a lack of creative talent in the U.S. “When you’re playing against more well-organized teams, better-coached teams, you have to break them down, and that breaking teams down is a combination of strategy, tactics, and personnel, and I don’t see that they’ve got the personnel to do that,” she wrote.
Horan said that this is exactly what Hayes was hired to do: a deep dive into what went wrong at the World Cup this summer and what needs fixing in the short and long term.
“There’s so much talent in this team, and I don’t think the world has seen enough of it yet just because we need to go out and show it,” Horan replied. “We need to be able to mesh together and show everything that we have, and what we’re all about, and how we can really collaborate and play together — be more of a team and be a powerhouse again. It’s going to be exciting for us to have her and see what she can do with this team and how she can help us moving forward.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Hayes will not stay in the U.S. for either of the two upcoming games against China PR. Last week, Hayes said her “full focus” was on Chelsea.
“No, I’m not watching (the USWNT),” she said. “I’m watching my own team. I’m watching our competition. That’s the work of Twila and the full-time staff that are in place. I don’t start working for U.S. Soccer until May.”
After the conclusion of the international break, Chelsea will head to Emirates Stadium on Dec. 10 to face Arsenal in a matchup of the top two teams in the Women’s Super League.
Required reading
- How the USWNT lured Emma Hayes away from Chelsea: Inside the near $2 million deal
- Three things new USWNT head coach Emma Hayes must address in the next cycle
(Photo: Harriet Lander/Getty Images)
Three bold ideas for the USWNT in their final games of 2023
Claire Watkins November 29, 2023 Just Women’s Sports
Lynn Williams is proving herself as a USWNT mainstay through her club and international play. (Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)The U.S. women’s national team will play their final matches of the calendar year in the next week, with the opportunity to place a definitive stamp on a tumultuous 2023. The two friendlies against China PR will be the team’s first games after the hiring of Emma Hayes as head coach, but they also serve as an extension of Twila Kilgore’s interim management, which will continue until May 2024.The USWNT’s December roster follows something of a tradition in major tournament years, giving many veterans the international break off to rest and recuperate, while refreshing the larger player pool with non-World Cup players. But the possibility of any major changes in tactical approach seem slim, with Hayes yet to assert her full influence on the team’s style of play.
In lieu of a wholesale change in philosophy, here are three bold(ish) ideas for the U.S. during this international period beyond basic player evaluation.
Shake things up in the attack
While their actual goal-scoring output has improved in the months since the World Cup, it’s difficult to watch the USWNT without feeling like something is broken in the attack. The team went scoreless in two of their four World Cup matches, and they closed out their most recent friendly series having failed to score in three out of four halves.Many of the issues with the USWNT’s once-vaunted attack go beyond any single player, but the young roster in December has a chance to break free of some of the systemic problems plaguing the front line. The games will provide an opportunity to get more tape on center forward Mia Fishel, who should have a fitness advantage over some of her teammates due to her club team, Chelsea, being in-season.
But shaking the USWNT attack out of its slump isn’t just about slotting in new faces at the No. 9 — the way the rest of the team relates to the center forward position also needs a rethink. Over the summer, the option of moving Sophia Smith to a more central position was presented as a zero-sum substitution of Alex Morgan, who started all of the U.S.’s World Cup matches. But with Morgan sitting the December friendlies out, the reason for moving Smith centrally would be less as a like-for-like replacement and more as a way of replacing her on the wings with a traditional winger.Midge Purce and Lynn Williams are coming off of an excellent NWSL Championship performance. Both Gotham FC players ran the wings with confidence, getting the ball to the endline for low crosses and providing help defense when necessary. Purce found teammates for goals twice in that game, looking dangerous both on the ball and in dead-ball situations.
Having wingers who can cut inside to pull the defense out of shape is a great asset, but the U.S. at times has created a very narrow shape due to individual player tendencies. It could be worthwhile to run the old playbook with new talent in game one, but a total rethink in game two could shake the team out of its old patterns.
Rose Lavelle is one of the most experienced players on the USWNT’s December roster. (Robin Alam/USSF/Getty Images)
Share the armband
With a number of key veterans taking this international break off, the U.S. has an opportunity to share some of the burden of leadership in productive ways. Midfielder Lindsey Horan has been an able captain in 2023, but at times it appeared the team was over-relying on her to galvanize the group, while other experienced players didn’t seem empowered to communicate with clear authority.Horan will likely feature heavily in both December matches since she plays her club football on the European schedule and is currently match-fit. But a bolder idea would be to give the 29-year-old a break, if simply to upend patterns in the USWNT midfield. Kilgore would do well to eventually leave her younger players operating without a safety net, whether that means entrusting Jaedyn Shaw with the No. 10 role or pairing Olivia Moultrie with the newly healthy Rose Lavelle.Outside of giving the midfield an overdue refresh, Kilgore also has the opportunity to prioritize leaders who didn’t get a chance to blossom in Andonovski’s final year.Casey Murphy is the most experienced goalkeeper on the roster and will surely be charged with organizing her backline. Lavelle is coming off a blistering performance in the 2023 NWSL Championship game, showcasing her experience as a player. And Lynn Williams will be the most tenured forward of the group. With communication lagging at times in the past year, a clean slate with new voices in the mix will be key for the team’s mentality going into 2024.
Give the Wave duo the keys to the defense
Abby Dahlkemper’s return to the USWNT is exciting for fans for reasons beyond her play on the pitch. Dahlkemper has recovered from a chronic back injury that greatly hampered the center-back in 2022, resulting in surgery. Making her NWSL return in August 2023, she’s looked as steady as ever, providing confidence in possession and showcasing her abilities off the ball to stunt an opponent’s attack.She’s also settled in with current USWNT mainstay Naomi Girma in their club environment at the San Diego Wave, providing the foundation for the team’s run to the NWSL Shield in 2023. Girma was arguably the USWNT’s MVP in 2023. She both served as the wedge between opponents and her own goal and was relied upon heavily to spring possession forward when the U.S.’s midfield had trouble moving the ball.The upcoming games give Dahlkemper and Girma a chance to test out their on-field chemistry at the international level, providing equal levels of experience and complementary skill sets. Dahlkemper used to be known for the same diagonal balls forward that have become Girma’s calling card for the U.S. With the role of Girma’s center-back partner firmly up for grabs after the retirement of Julie Ertz, Dahlkemper has a chance to make a big impression in her return. For a team looking for consistent starters following Andonovski’s frequent experimentation in defense, her comeback might be happening at exactly the right time.Claire Watkins is a Staff Writer at Just Women’s Sports. Follow her on Twitter @ScoutRipley.
UCL talking points: PSG the biggest letdown; best young player
- ESPN
- Nov 30, 2023, 05:00 AM
Matchday five of the 2023-24 Champions League group stage provided goals galore, comebacks and drama all across Europe. Manchester United have left it all to do on the final matchday when they face Bayern Munich. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid clinched their spot in the round of 16, while Group F’s second spot is for the taking among AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United.
We asked our writers Gab Marcotti, Mark Ogden, Sam Marsden and Julien Laurens to answer some of our burning questions.
ADVERTISING
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)https://playlist.megaphone.fm/?e=ESP3305546883
1. PSG, Newcastle and Milan have all struggled during the group stage. Who are you most disappointed with and why?
Mark Ogden: This may be stating the obvious, but the answer is PSG every time. A club with ambitions of winning the Champions League, with a coach (Luis Enrique) who has won the competition and arguably the world’s best player (Kylian Mbappé), PSG have been so bad in Group F and they are by no means guaranteed to get the result they need away to Borussia Dortmund on matchday six to qualify for the round of 16. AC Milan over-performed to reach the semifinals last season and Newcastle are a team of rookies playing in the competition for the first time in 20 years, and both still have a chance of reaching the knockout stages. For PSG to be in this position of needing a win in their last game to qualify is a major failure for all concerned at Parc des Princes.
Group F
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Dortmund | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | +3 | 10 |
| 2 – PSG | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | +1 | 7 |
| 3 – Newcastle | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 5 |
| 4 – Milan | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -4 | 5 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Julien Laurens: Unfortunately, it’s my beloved PSG. They have made too many mistakes defensively (the most recent from Gianluigi Donnarumma against Newcastle), have missed too many chances offensively (the most recent ones by Bradley Barcola against Newcastle) and have a manager who makes weird choices at times (4-2-4 at St James’ Park, Goncalo Ramos on the bench until the 85th minute on Tuesday.) And despite some positive things at times in the competition, they have been too disappointing because of their lack of efficiency and consistency in a group that is actually not that strong.
Sam Marsden: PSG, by some distance. There was a lot of upheaval at the club over the summer, both on the bench and on the pitch, but they were still favourites to progress from the group, despite its complexities. Thirteen years into the Qatar Sports Investment (QSI) ownership, they don’t look any closer to winning the competition. The only hope they have is that this is a case of taking one step back to take two steps forward, with Lionel Messi and Neymar making way to allow coach Luis Enrique to build a new, younger side, based on the team rather than superstars. And, they still have qualification in their own hands. If they make it through, not many teams will want to face them.
Gab Marcotti: It has to be PSG. Performances were always going to take some time given the summer overhaul and the arrival of Enrique, but you’d at least expect results. And yet they lost to both Newcastle and Milan. Newcastle and Milan have been hit really hard by injuries and, especially in Milan’s case, an inability to turn the many chances created into goals (they should have won their first two games).
Can Jude Bellingham maintain his blistering to start at Real Madrid?
Craig Burley heaps yet more praise on Jude Bellingham after he scored in Real Madrid’s 4-2 win over Napoli in the Champions League.
2. Which young players (21 or younger) have most impressed you this campaign?
Marcotti: It’s Real Madrid‘s Jude Bellingham for me as well. Had he scored zero goals this season, his contribution in midfield would still have been sensational. Instead, he has scored 15 goals in 16 games in all competitions. That’s the kind of scoring rate we’ve seen from guys named Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the past … and Bellingham is a midfielder. RB Leipzig midfielder Xavi Simons is special too and you feel like there is a ton to come from him. I’d throw in FC Salzburg‘s Oscar Gloukh, Manchester City’s Rico Lewis, Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga and PSG’s Warren Zaïre-Emery as youngsters who impressed, maybe not consistently, but enough to want you wanting more. Rasmus Højlund has been up and down, like his team, but you can’t ignore the sheer number of goals he has scored (five in five games.)
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Ancelotti: Bellingham does things Zidane couldn’t16hAlex Kirkland and Rodrigo Faez
- Onana’s nightmare has Man United on Champions League brink16hRob Dawson
- Champions League: Who has qualified, what all teams need16hDale Johnson
Ogden: We have to start with Bellingham. It’s amazing to think that he is still only 20, but he has dominated for Carlo Ancelotti’s team this season and scored again against Napoli this week. But he’s the obvious pick. Away from Bellingham, Roony Bardghji sealed a 4-3 win for FC Copenhagen against Manchester United earlier this month with a stunning late goal to justify the hype surrounding the 18-year-old. And Lewis Miley produced an exceptional performance of maturity and quality for Newcastle against Paris Saint-Germain at just 17 years of age. But nobody has come close to the impact that Bellingham has had at Madrid.
Marsden: Bellingham is so far ahead of the field that it is almost unfair to name him alongside the other youngsters in the competition. Looking elsewhere, Real Sociedad winger Ander Barrenetxea is perhaps one of the names you would not have expected to see on this list. He is a constant threat out wide. They’re out, but Royal Antwerp midfielder Arthur Vermeeren has also impressed. The deep-lying midfielder will be at a bigger European club soon. Shoutouts too for PSV Eindhoven‘s Johan Bakayoko and some more familiar names: Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala and Man City’s Lewis.
Laurens: There is only one answer here, and it’s Bellingham. So, to be different, I will say Pablo Barrios, who has done very well in the three games he has played so far for Atletico Madrid in the competition. He gave a great assist off the bench on Tuesday against Feyenoord in his team’s win. and he scored a big goal away at Lazio to get a draw too. At 20, he is so promising in midfield.
Why Man City’s defending is a real concern
Craig Burley is not convinced by Manchester City’s defending after they conceded seven goals in the last three games.
3. Which of the undefeated teams (Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Real Sociedad, Inter, Atletico Madrid) has been most impressive, and why?
Marcotti: Manchester City have looked head and shoulders above the competition for me. They’ve had their low points, struggling in first halves against Red Star Belgrade and RB Leipzig, but they’ve always come back and looked convincing. They just seem effortless right now. Real Madrid also have five wins in five for a reason, but they haven’t come close to hitting the same heights (injuries haven’t helped, of course.) In terms of the football played, big shout-out to Real Sociedad who maybe have played the second-best football of the group stage, after City.
Laurens: Unlike Gab, I don’t think that City have been that impressive in either game against Leipzig, the only opponents of quality they have faced so far. So I will go for Real Sociedad. I never thought they would top their group with a game to go. They have played some really good football and they are a great club with heritage, identity and history. They were unlucky not to beat Inter Milan, last season’s finalists, and the only reason they didn’t beat Salzburg on Wednesday was because of the heavy rotation made by coach Imanol Alguacil.
Marsden: There are different categories here. City are, for me, the most impressive side in the competition, although they haven’t hit top gear yet. They are in a group of their own out in front, followed by a clutch of clubs in which I would include Bayern and Madrid. Atlético and Inter are probably in the next group. Both have done well to remain undefeated, especially as Inter had to come from 3-0 down against Benfica to preserve that streak and are capable of beating most teams in the competition over two legs on their day. However, the most impressive in many ways has been Real Sociedad. They failed to win a game the last time they were in the Champions League in 2013 and were not fancied to get out of their group this year. And yet, with one game to go, Alguacil’s unbeaten side sit top, ahead of Inter, Benfica and Salzburg, and are already assured of a place in the last 16. They are attractive to watch, built on home-grown talent and boast a crop of talented young players, including Barrenetxea, Take Kubo and Martín Zubimendi.
Ogden: Sorry to go against the grain here, but I don’t think any of them have been super impressive to the point of being the outstanding team of the group stage. City, Real and Bayern have all conceded way too many goals, but their attacking strength has got them out of difficult positions. Let’s see if they can do it against really strong opponents in the knockout phase. Considering Real Sociedad aren’t Champions League regulars, their success in being unbeaten at this stage makes them the most impressive, but I’m not impressed to the extent of predicting them to go beyond the round of 16.
- Terms of Use
- Privacy Policy
- Your US State Privacy Rights
- Children’s Online Privacy Policy
- Interest-Based Ads
- About Nielsen Measurement
- Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
- Contact Us
- Disney Ad Sales Site
- Work for ESPN
- Corrections
Copyright: © ESPN Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
Champions League: Who has qualified, what all teams need
The UEFA Champions League group stage is reaching its conclusion, with only four places in the knockout rounds still up for grabs on Matchday 6.
This is the final season of the multigroup format, before it becomes a 36-team competition with all clubs in one league table.
We take a look at who is through and how can still seal their places.
The top two teams in each group qualify for the round of 16, the third-placed clubs drop into the Europa League knockout playoff round, and those who finish bottom are eliminated.
Qualified for round of 16 (12/16): Manchester City, RB Leipzig, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Real Sociedad, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid, Lazio, Arsenal, PSV Eindhoven
Eliminated (10/16): Union Berlin, FC Salzburg, Benfica, Celtic, Antwerp, Young Boys, Red Star Belgrade, Feyenoord, Sevilla, Lens
Tiebreakers:
1) Points
2) Head-to-head points in games involving the tied teams
3) Goal difference in head-to-head matches involving the tied teams
4) Goals scored in head-to-head matches involving the tied teams
— If the above tiebreaker initially involves 3 or 4 teams, it is reapplied to resolve any remaining tiebreaker among fewer clubs
5) Goal difference in all group matches
6) Goals scored in all group matches
7) Away goals scored in all group matches
8) Wins in all group matches
9) Away wins in all group matches
10) Disciplinary points
11) UEFA club coefficient.
This page will be updated throughout the final rounds of the group stage.
Group permutations
Group A
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 12: Manchester United vs. Bayern Munich, FC Copenhagen vs. Galatasaray
Group A
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Bayern | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | +5 | 13 |
| 2 – Copenhagen | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -1 | 5 |
| 3 – Galatasaray | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -2 | 5 |
| 4 – Man United | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 4 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Bayern Munich have qualified as group winners.
FC Copenhagen are guaranteed to qualify in second with a win, or with a draw if Manchester United draw or lose.
Galatasaray have to beat FC Copenhagen, which will secure second place.
Manchester United have to beat Bayern and hope FC Copenhagen vs. Galatasaray is a draw. However, United are guaranteed at least a place in the Europa League if they win.
Group B
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 12: PSV Eindhoven vs. Arsenal, Lens vs. Sevilla
Group B
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Arsenal | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | +12 | 12 |
| 2 – PSV | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | -2 | 8 |
| 3 – Lens | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -6 | 5 |
| 4 – Sevilla | 5 | 0 | 2 | 3 | -4 | 2 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Arsenal went through and sealed first place in the group with a 6-0 win at home to Lens.
Arsenal’s victory also ensured PSV Eindhoven advanced, as the Eredivisie side hold the head to head over Lens.
Lens need a win or draw at home to Sevilla to move into the Europa League.
Sevilla must beat Lens to climb up to third and continue in Europe.
Reacting to Arsenal’s ‘demolishing’ 6-0 win vs. Lens
Craig Burley and the rest of the “ESPN FC” crew react to Arsenal’s 6-0 victory over Lens that sent them into the Champions League Round of 16.
Group C
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 12: Union Berlin vs. Real Madrid, Napoli vs. Braga
Group C
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Real Madrid | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | +8 | 15 |
| 2 – Napoli | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | -1 | 7 |
| 3 – Braga | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -4 | 4 |
| 4 – Union Berlin | 5 | 0 | 2 | 3 | -3 | 2 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Real Madrid have qualified for the round of 16 and have topped the group.
Napoli will be through with a win, draw or one-goal defeat at home to Braga.
Braga must win by 2+ goals away to Napoli to finish in second place.
Union Berlin have been eliminated and must win at home to Real Madrid and hope Braga lose to Napoli to make the Europa League.
Can Jude Bellingham maintain his blistering to start at Real Madrid?
Craig Burley heaps yet more praise on Jude Bellingham after he scored in Real Madrid’s 4-2 win over Napoli in the Champions League.
Group D
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 12: Internazionale vs. Real Sociedad, FC Salzburg vs. Benfica
Group D
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Real Sociedad | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | +5 | 11 |
| 2 – Inter | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | +3 | 11 |
| 3 – Salzburg | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 – Benfica | 5 | 0 | 1 | 4 | -6 | 1 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Real Sociedad and Inter Milan have both qualified for the round of 16.
Top spot will be decided when the two teams meet in Italy on the final night. Real Sociedad will top the group with a win or draw, Inter require a victory.
FC Salzburg hold the Europa League place, and they will secure it if they win or draw against Benfica, or if they lose by one goal.
Benfica must beat FC Salzburg by 2+ goals to make the Europa League.
Group E
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 13: Atletico Madrid vs. Lazio, Celtic vs. Feyenoord
Group E
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Atletico | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | +9 | 11 |
| 2 – Lazio | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | +2 | 10 |
| 3 – Feyenoord | 5 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
| 4 – Celtic | 5 | 0 | 1 | 4 | -11 | 1 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Atletico Madrid and Lazio have qualified and face each other in Spain on Matchday 6. Atletico will top the group with a win or draw, while Lazio need a victory.
Feyenoord will drop into the Europa League knockout playoff round
Celtic have been eliminated from Europe.
Group F
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 13: Newcastle United vs. AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund vs. Paris Saint-Germain
Group F
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Dortmund | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | +3 | 10 |
| 2 – PSG | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | +1 | 7 |
| 3 – Newcastle | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 5 |
| 4 – Milan | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | -4 | 5 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Borussia Dortmund have qualified and will top the group with a win or draw at home to PSG.
Paris Saint-Germain must win in Germany to be sure of going through — which will also see them top the group.
PSG can only go through with a draw if AC Milan win or draw.
PSG can only go through with a loss if Newcastle-AC Milan is a draw.
Why VAR was wrong to award PSG a penalty for handball vs. Newcastle
Dale Johnson reacts after VAR Tomasz Kwiatkowski was removed from duty by UEFA for another Champions League game.
Newcastle United must win and hope PSG draw or lose. If the two teams are level, Newcastle will finish second on head to head.
AC Milan must win and hope PSG lose. If the two teams are level, PSG will finish second on head to head.
If Newcastle and Milan draw, Newcastle will drop into the Europa League on goal difference.
How much would Champions League exit hurt Milan?
Nicky Bandini explains how much of a disappointment exiting the Champions League at the group stage would be for AC Milan.
Group G
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 13: RB Leipzig vs. Young Boys, Red Star Belgrade vs. Manchester City
Group G
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Man City | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | +10 | 15 |
| 2 – Leipzig | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | +2 | 9 |
| 3 – Young Boys | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -5 | 4 |
| 4 – Red Star | 5 | 0 | 1 | 4 | -7 | 1 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Manchester City have won the group with a 100% record.
RB Leipzig go through in second place.
Young Boys will drop into the Europa League in the New Year.
Red Star Belgrade are out of Europe.
Why Man City’s defending is a real concern
Craig Burley is not convinced by Manchester City’s defending after they conceded seven goals in the last three games.
Group H
Remaining fixtures
Dec. 13: Antwerp vs. Barcelona, FC Porto vs. Shakhtar Donetsk
Group H
| GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – Barcelona | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | +7 | 12 |
| 2 – FC Porto | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | +5 | 9 |
| 3 – Shakhtar | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 9 |
| 4 – Antwerp | 5 | 0 | 0 | 5 | -12 | 0 |
| 1, 2: UCL round of 16; 3: UEL playoff round | ||||||
Barcelona sit on top of the group and are through to the round of 16. They will win the group unless they lose in Antwerp, and Shakhtar beat FC Porto while overtaking Barca on goal difference. As Barca hold a goal difference advantage of seven this is unlikely.
FC Porto and Shakhtar meet in Portugal level on points.
FC Porto won the first meeting of the sides so will be through with a win or draw, though they cannot win the group. Shakhtar Donetsk must win to progress.
Antwerp have been eliminated.
Morning update
Pepi’s defining moment could open doors, Miazga suspended, busy Thursday, & more
Ricardo Pepi’s big goal wasn’t just important for PSV, it was what the El Paso native needed to build trust for a bigger role. Meanwhile, Matt Miazga has hurt Cincinnati, and many yanks play on Thursday including George Bello against Liverpool. ASN’s Brian Sciaretta breaks it all down
BY BRIAN SCIARETTAPOSTED
NOVEMBER 30, 2023
5:30 AM
ON WEDNESDAY, U.S. national team forward Ricardo Pepi finally had his first defining moment since moving on from FC Dallas in 2022. Elsewhere, Union Berlin are still in search of a win, Matt Miazga has left FC Cincinnati in a bad spot, and now there are interesting proposed referee rules coming.
But let’s start with the good news
PEPI’S BIG MOMENT
It was a wonderful day for PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday and it has been a wonderful start to the season in every regard. In the Eredivisie, they’re at 39 points from 13 games – which is perfect. On Tuesday, they defeated Sevilla in Sevilla 3-2, to sit in second place of Group B of the Champions League by three points (and a nice goal differential too) with just one game remaining. They now look likely to advance to the knockouts.
Perfect league start through 13 and advancing in the Champions League? That’s a home run.
But how PSV won yesterday was for the ages, and Americans were front and center. Trailing 2-0 on the road, PSV was given a lifeline when Sevilla’s Lucas Ocampos was sent of in the 66th minute. Two minutes later, Saibari pulled one back for PSV on an assist from Sergino Dest.
Then with the score 2-2 in stoppage time, it was Ricardo Pepi who found the winner after he entered the game in the 82nd minute.
This was arguably the biggest moment of Pepi’s career and it carries a lot of importance. Not only was this huge for PSV and their chances of advancing to the knockouts, but it was important for Pepi to build confidence and it was important for PSV and head coach Peter Bosz to gain trust in Pepi.
For most of this season, Pepi has only been seeing limited minutes behind Luuk de Jong. While he is a top player, de Jong is now 33 years old and he had been playing almost at an unsustainable rate. For Pepi to breakthrough and play more than the 5-15 minutes per game (typically when PSV has a comfortable lead) he needed to prove he could help his overachieving team and that there would not be much of a layoff whenever he was on the field in place of de Jong.
This goal goes a long way towards building that trust to show he is ready to contribute to a Champions League-knockout club.
That was the big story in this game for Americans, but also Sergino Dest played very well again and he is getting everything he wanted out of this season – a chance to reboot, play well, and play in big games. Malik Tillman also came into the game in the 58th minute and was on the field for the comeback win. His future status at PSV is a little less clear but still being part of a Champions League run and a likely Eredivisie title will boost his resume substantially.
Elsewhere in the Champions League, Brenden Aaronson and Union Berlin continued to have an awful season with a 1-1 away draw with Braga. On paper, it wasn’t so bad. But Union Berlin had a man advantage from the 30th minute and they even took a lead in the 42nd minute.
But Union Berlin was outshot 18-6 despite having a man advantage for 2/3 of the game. Aaronson played the last 12 minutes of this. But for Union, it’s just about finding a spark to turn things around. It doesn’t get any easier this weekend with a visit to Bayern Munich, with Union still in the relegation zone.
EUROPEAN PLAY ON THURSDAY
There are a lot of Americans in action on Thursday in the Europa and Conference Leagues.
George Bello will likely get a huge opportunity when LASK visits Liverpool in the Europa League. LASK needs a win to have any hopes of advancing, so it’ll be quite the stage for them at Anfield to go for it.
Djordje Miahailovic should start for AZ due to injury and he could really use a big outing to try to earn regular minutes for AZ. AZ hosts Zrinjski Mostar in the Conference League and AZ needs to win its last two games to have any chance of advancing.
Dante Polvara should start for Aberdeen away at HJK Helsinki in the Conference League. Unfortunately, Aberdeen cannot advance to the knockouts.
Eintracht Frankfurt has already secured a spot in the Conference League knockouts and that might open the door for another start for either Paxten Aaronson and/or Timothy Chandler against PAOK.
Genk desperately needs a win or at least a result to advance to the Conference League knockouts and on Thursday, they have a big chance with a visit to Fiorentina in Tuscany. Mark McKenzie should start. It is games like these which could boost his USMNT stock and put him on the inside of the bubble.
MIAZGA SUSPENDED
Matt Miazga will miss the remainder of the playoffs for Cincinnati after he was suspended by MLS for an incident in the playoffs against the Red Bulls when he reportedly went into the referee’s locker room after the game seeking an explanation for a yellow card.
This is terrible news for Miazga who was recently named the MLS Defender of the Year and will now not be there for his team in their biggest games in club history. Cincinnati will host Columbus in the Eastern Conference Final and Columbus boasts two elite attackers in Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernandez, who is an MLS Best XI.
Miazga has not made a public comment on this suspension, but it puts a dent in his hopes of getting back into the USMNT picture. Will that come in January? That will be a close call.
NEW REFEREE RULE
Speaking of referees, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) is recommending a trial for 10-minute “sin-bins” for cynical fouls and excessive dissent. It will be similar to rules in ruby or even ice hockey where a player must leave for 10 minutes.
The problem is that this introduces even more discretion for referees and many recent attempts to stop out problems in the game have been ineffective and not applied equally. Reviewing diving by video after games and issuing suspensions was supposed to put a dent in diving. It really hasn’t.
Sin-bins would probably be more effective in youth soccer. But for senior soccer, what really needs to be applied is the rule that only captains can approach referees. This would prevent swarming and dissent. If anyone else approaches the referee, he/she is given a yellow and a quick red without promptly leaving the vicinity of the referee.
But it looks like some leagues will be tasked with being trial balloons for the sin-bin rule. We will see if MLS or USL get the nod.
Morning update: Milan’s bad day, MLS Best XI, Haji scores, Fletcher’s future, and more
ASN’s Brian Sciaretta offers up some morning thoughts to kick off your Wednesday from topics like the Champions League, MLS Best XI, the Championship, and Kristen Fletcher’s future.
BY BRIAN SCIARETTAPOSTED
NOVEMBER 29, 2023
5:30 AM
IT’S WEDNESDAY and we’re already in the middle of the week and we’re almost in December. And as always, there is a lot of news both on and off the field to write about.
In case you were wondering, I missed the Americans abroad weekly column this week. It fell victim to the MLS playoff games and the Thanksgiving holiday, to make writing about 5000 words possible. It turned out to be mostly a quiet week anyway, so it worked out. Anyway, we’ll do it next week.
In the meantime, there are other things planned this week. But here is a Wednesday morning update.
MLS BEST XI
MLS released the league’s Best XI for 2023. For the most part, it is hard to argue with any of it. It was refreshing to see three American defenders make the cut. Walker Zimmerman made it for the third year in a row Han Mukhtar made it for the second year.
Some notable cuts were Daniel Gazdag in Philadelphia or Nkosi Tafari with Dallas.
Four teams have two players in Atlanta, Nashville, Cincinnati, and St. Louis.
Forwards: Dénis Bouanga (LAFC), Giorgos Giakoumakis (ATL), Cucho Hernández (CLB)
Midfielders: Luciano Acosta (CIN), Thiago Almada (ATL), Héctor Herrera (HOU), Hany Mukhtar (NSH)
Defenders: Matt Miazga (CIN), Tim Parker (STL), Walker Zimmerman (NSH)
Goalkeeper: Roman Bürki (STL)
TOUGH DAY IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
It wasn’t a great day for the Americans in the Champions League on Tuesday.
First, AC Milan lost at home to Borussia Dortmund 3-1 to essentially ruin their chances of advancing to the knockouts (and possibly out of the Europa too). The game featured just one American player in Christian Pulisic who started and went the full 90. Yunus Musah was suspended and Gio Reyna went as an unused substitute for Dortmund.
Pulisic was okay in this game. He had some sharp passes in the end of the first half and also was dangerous late after Milan was already down two goals. But surely it was disappointing for him to fall to his former team.
Milan will need a win on the final matchday away at Newcastle to have any hope of even playing in the Europa.
As for Dortmund, they look great but Reyna continues to be a non-factor who might occasionally start but is typically a decent option off the bench if needed. We’ll see how long he stays.
Also in Italy, Lazio defeated Celtic 2-0 which meant the Scottish champions will finish in last place in the group with just one point from five games before the group finale. Cameron Carter-Vickers was decent for Celtic in the loss but it was par for the course. Celtic is a team that dominates in the Premiership, gets outclassed in Europe, and faces just a few important games all season (Old Firm, and a few in Europe before they’re eliminated).
At some point, Carter-Vickers might consider a return to England or somewhere where the big games happen frequently.
On Wednesday, the Yank Trio of Sergino Dest, Malik Tillman, and Ricardo Pepi at PSV will take on Sevilla in Spain. A win would continue what has been a dream season for PSV. They are perfect in the Eredivisie (39 points form 13 games) and are second in their Champions League group. Now they have a big chance to take a step towards the knockouts. For Dest, he might be a hot head (as we’ve just seen) but he’s one of the most in-form American players right now.
On the flip side, Brenden Aaronson and Union Berlin head to Braga. It has been a nightmare of a season for Union which are in last of the Champions League group and sit in the Bundesliga relegation zone. In all competitions, they are winless in 15 games. The priority for Union right now is simply to learn to compete again and not be their own worst enemy.
YANKS IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP
In England’s second tier, it was a busy day for Americans.
The best moment was by Haji Wright who scored the match-winner for Coventry in a 1-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle. It was the second win in a row for Coventry which moved to 15th with the win. It was also the fifth goal of the season for Wright. His goals typically haven’t been of impressive quality, but there is a huge skill towards being in the right place at the right time. If anyone could do it, they would.
Wright has fallen out of the USMNT picture and he just needs to keep scoring to get back there. He doesn’t seem like the striker who fits Berhalter’s style, but goals are goals. Wright can force his way back into the squad.
Preston North End dropped a terrible 4-0 decision away to Middlesbrough. Duane Holmes was fortunate to go as an unused substitute for PNE, which fell to seventh.
Queen Park Rangers started to climb towards safety with a 4-2 win over Stoke City thanks to two late goals (89th and 90+4) to win it. Reggie Cannon came into the game in the 63rd minute and Charlie Kelman came into the game in the 73rd as QPR was chasing. Cannon took advantage of a lot of space left by Stoke City who were reduced to 10 men in the 53rd when the score was 1-1. QPR is now just three points from clawing out of relegation.
Lynden Gooch went 90 minutes in the Stoke City loss.
Finally, Norwich lost to Watford 3-2 and former USMNT forward David Wagner’s side fell to 13th in the Championship.
Finally, DC United forward Kristen Fletcher continues to score goals in droves for Swansea City’s U-21 team where he is on loan. He scored another three goals for Swansea City in a 4-0 win over Ipswich Town’s U-21 team. Don’t be surprised if he gets called up to the first team soon.
Charles Bohem reported on this matter for MLS Soccer and DC United right now expects that he’ll be back perhaps to take on a big role with DC United next year (along with the U.S. U-20 team).
“I think it’s fantastic that Kristian is having the success he’s having and the experience he’s having,” D.C. co-chairman and CEO Jason Levien told Boehm on Tuesday. “We want him playing first-team soccer or football to get that experience as well. So right now we expect that he’ll be back with D.C. United.
“We’re going to talk to him and both clubs about that, figure out what’s the best path for his development. But I think with a new coach coming into D.C. and new leadership in soccer operations, I think it’s a great opportunity for Kristian.”Fletcher wants to play in the top leagues in Europe. But what is the best way for him to get there? Through DC United or Swansea. The two clubs have links with common owners, so it should be a decision made by people with the same interest.
=======RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===========
Heading over to the Badger Field for Training? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ
Save 20% on your order
(mention the ole ballcoach)
Check out the BarBQ Ribs, pulled Pork and Chicken, Brisket and more. Sweet, Tangy or Spicy sauce. Mention you heard about it from the Ole Ballcoach — and Ryan will give you 20% off your next meal. https://www.rackzbbqindy.com/ Call ahead at 317-688-7290 M-Th 11-8 pm, 11-9 Fri/Sat, 12-8 pm on Sunday. Pick some up after practice – Its good eatin! You won’t be disappointed and tell ’em the Ole Ballcoach Sent You!
======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================
Rent this Beautiful 4 BR Beach house at Myrtle Beach for as low at $250 a night.
Proud Member of the American Outlaws https://www.facebook.com/IndyAOUnite, Brick Yard Battalion – http://brickyardbattalion.com, Sam’s Army-http://sams-army.com
Earn Your College Degree at ½ the Cost and Time of Traditional Schools www.achievetestprep.com/shane
The Ole BallCoach 