1. Derby of the day


AC Milan’s midweek triumph in Russia will feel quite hollow after today’s thoroughly dispiriting performance against their bitter rivals at the San Siro. A Walter Samuel header off of an Esteban Cambiasso free kick in the third minute was the difference as Andrea Stramaccioni was forced to park the bus after Yuto Nagamoto was sent off in the opening moments of the second half. Samuel’s goal was the seventh set piece score allowed by Milan in this young season – that’s absolutely terrible. Andrea Ranocchia, Cambiasso and Samuel were fantastic throughout. Inter’s 36 year-old manager has been likened to Jose Mourinho in recent days – a comparison he’s quickly shrugged off. But the relationship he’s forged with his players that seemingly goes beyond the field is reminiscent of Mourinho’s style. Going forward, it’s clear which team from Italy’s second largest city is trending upwards. To be clear, it certainly isn’t il Diavolo.

2. Feel good story of the day

The man with the smile of all smiles has been somewhat forgotten these days, plying his trade in Brazil. The guy can still play.Ronaldinho’s hat trick helped Atletico Mineiro dismantle Figueirense 6-0 yesterday evening. The Brazilian legend’s first goal was a thing of beauty:

The AP explains the tears:

“Ronaldinho’s stepfather died of a heart attack on Friday and the player appeared moved after the goal. He celebrated by kneeling down and apparently prayed briefly, without holding back tears.”

3. Photo of the day

"Zlatan jumps when he wants to jump."

4. Goal of the day
Porto defeated Sporting Lisbon 2-0 this afternoon  in a clash of Portuguese football heavyweights. Jackson Martinez opened the scoring with this ridiculous back heel goal:
5. Poorly translated article of the day
When Neymar eventually comes to Europe I imagine a large swathe of media outlets will have to shutter their doors. The Brazilian superstar is the source of a new rumor every other day it seems, the latest concerns his feelings on Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Apparently, he’s a big fan:
“It’s a dream to play with Ibrahimovic. He is an idol of the world, an ace – Neymar said in an interview with French TV channel, TF1. It would be an honor to play in a team like Paris Saint-Germain, but I’m happy at Santos. It’s not the right time yet, but maybe in the future – Neymar said.”
The comments come after the Swedish striker said he wanted to see Neymar playing in Europe because “Brazil was too far away.” A wealthy man that lives in a prestigious hotel in the middle of Paris can surely afford the latest in Satellite technology, cut the bs. Zlatan isn’t alone. Santos coach Muricy Ramalho along with former greats Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Dunga have said the precocious talent must go to Europe in order to develop his game. Ultimately PSG may be the perfect place.

No Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *