Connect with us

Article

David Moyes: Manchester United Has Hired The Right Man

Published

on

 

Celebrations commenced around the stadium as several United players had won their first Premier League title including the likes of Van Persie, Shinji Kagawa, Phil Jones, Tom Cleverley, and David De Gea, just to name a few. There was an enchanting mood around Old Trafford especially when Sir Alex Ferguson joined the celebrations, singing along with the team and supporters ‘It’s Carrick you know.’

United claimed another league title under Ferguson, and there was a sense that the United manager was in the process of assembling another dynasty that would dominate domestically, and possibly European football in a few years. In Ferguson’s programme notes prior to the Chelsea match on Sunday, Ferguson stated,

“I certainly don’t have any plans at the moment to walk away from what I believe will be something special. This team of champions are not going away,” Ferguson said.

“We are here for the long ride. We will get better and, if we apply ourselves in our normal fashion, I see our 20th League title as nothing but the start of another decade of success,” he said.

Three weeks after that historic win against Aston Villa, Ferguson announced that he’d be retiring at the end of the season, after 26 years under the helm of English football’s most successful side. During his time at Manchester United, Ferguson has claimed 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League crowns and five FA Cups. Ferguson, 71, is stepping down as United boss on a high, as he wrestled the Premier League title from local rivals Manchester City. Although Ferguson will no longer be manager of the Red Devils, the Scotsman has stated that he will be the ambassador and director of the club, going forward.

With that being said, this left many curious as to who would take over Ferguson’s reign as United manager. Over the past 48 hours, Jose Mourinho and David Moyes were in the midst of the conversation, as both men look destined to leave their respected clubs in the summer. Throughout Ferguson’s tenure at United, the Scotsman has been known to make choices that were better for the team. Mourinho and Moyes, both 50-years-old, have gone through different career paths; with age and their impressive man-management skills being one of the few things they have in common.

Jose Mourinho

Over the past decade, Mourinho has shared his trade in four different countries, winning several domestic trophies, along with matching Ferguson’s Champions League tally. The Special One has become one of the flashiest managers in world football and is currently the highest paid. Although the Portuguese manager’s CV is outstanding, his duration at these clubs has been quite short, and his departures have created problems long-term for most clubs. His ability to motivate players and push them to exceed their talent is undeniable, but it certainly leaves a physical toll on his players.

With Inter and Porto, Mourinho won domestically and on the continent, but his decision to face another challenge abroad, deprived many of seeing what he could achieve after attaining European success, specifically at Inter. The Nerazzuri was in need of imminent rebuilding, but failed to do so, and are still struggling to cope, three years after Mourinho’s departure.

At Chelsea, Mourinho’s first two years were glorious, introducing a 4-5-1 system, in a Premier League that was attached with 4-4-2. His powerful side bullied teams, claiming two Premier League titles in his first two seasons. In his third season, heavy reliance on prolific striker Didier Drogba, along with the emergence of a stronger Manchester United side, saw Chelsea concede the title that season. Mourinho was sacked in September 2007, and it took the club six years to finally step away from the Special One’s shadow.

Mourinho’s three-year cycle looks to be concluding at Real Madrid as well. For the most part, Madrid has looked a shadow of the side that won La Liga with 100 points last season. Both on and off the field incidents, the substantial reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo, along with his failure to evolve Madrid’s identity as merely a counter-attacking side, has led to his downfall. There’s no question that Mourinho would continue to succeed at Manchester United, but the club is looking for a long-term solution. Mourinho has yet to display longevity throughout his career, and looks unable to evolve as a manager after a three-year period, which is why he’s not the right man for the job.

In Ferguson’s retirement statement, the Scotsman expressed his gratitude to those who have helped him over the years, as well as why it was the right time to step down as manager.

“It is the right time. It was important to me to leave an organization in the strongest possible shape and I believe I have done so,” Ferguson said. 

“In my early years, the backing of the board, and Sir Bobby Charlton in particular, gave me the confidence and time to build a football club, rather than just a football team,” he said.

In modern day football, not many managers receive the time and patience from demanding owners, but David Moyes has at Everton. Moyes started his career in 1997 managing a Preston North End side that was determined to play Premier League football. Moyes led Preston to winning promotion in Division 2, and a year later lost in the Division One playoff final, which is now known as the npower Championship. The Scotsman joined Everton in 2002, and has become one of the top managers in the Premier League.

Moyes has been in charge of the Merseyside club for 11 years, but has failed to emulate the accolades that Mourinho has achieved, as Moyes has failed to win a trophy during his time at Goodison Park. According to whoscored.com, the Scotsman has won 40.5% of Everton’s 425 Premier League games during his tenure, which is a decent tally based on the resources available.

A 2009 FA Cup final defeat to Chelsea, along with their appearance in the 2005/2006 Champions League qualifying round, where Everton was eliminated by eventual semi-finalist’s Villareal, has deprived Moyes the recognition he fails to receive from the average football fan. Moyes can boast about potentially achieving Everton’s fifth top-eight finish in a row, which is impressive considering the amount of money the teams around the top of the table have spent.

A few weeks ago, Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini expressed his appreciation for Moyes.

“In 10 years he has made the club stronger and has positioned us just outside the top four or five clubs,” Fellaini said.

“We don’t have the same budget as Man United, Arsenal, Chelsea or Tottenham either, yet we are still doing well,” he said.

Moyes has overachieved during his time at Everton based on the personnel available, and it was time for the Scotsman to pursue a new challenge. The Scotsman brought the Merseyside club to a level that many fans could only dream of a few years ago, and it’s the best he can do with the funds available – mainly because his rivals for European spots continue to spend.

I Could have been Fergie's right hand admits Moyes

Probably the right man to fill the void left by Fergie

In the past Ferguson, has shared his admiration for what Moyes has achieved at Goodison Park.

“David has had to contend with not having a strong financial structure. He has to get the best out of the players he has had available and has done an amazing job,” Ferguson said.

“No matter how many players he has had injured he produces a team that has represented the club very well. He is a first-class manager,” he said.

Like Ferguson, the 50-year-old has great man-management skills as he constantly gets the best out his players. The Scotsman has been responsible for the development of a few top players such as Wayne Rooney, Mikel Arteta, Joleon Lescott, Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines during his time with the Toffees.

His sides have succeeded due to a joint team effort, rather than the reliance on a specific player, as the club has never possessed a legitimate world-class talent. Moyes has shown that he’s not afraid to give youth players a chance, and he has a keen eye for young talent. The Scotsman may not be the flashiest hire, but he possesses stability, continuity, and a dedicated work ethic that has caught the eye of not only Ferguson, but also the Manchester United board. Moyes has evolved during his time with the Toffees, but many are skeptical about his inability to claim silverware.

The Scotsman has been known for approaching games negatively against the top four sides, (Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal) as he’s failed to defeat these clubs away from Goodison Park in 45 attempts as Everton boss. It’s also no surprise that only these four sides possess a lower loss percentage than Everton (30.6%), since Moyes has joined the club.

Tactically he takes a reactive approach when playing these sides, aiming to nullify their weaknesses, which could explain his dismal record . Everton tend to defend in two banks of four, whereas their attack consists of wingers stretching the play looking to play in dangerous crosses, energetic fullbacks getting forward creating overloads at will and strong centre forwards holding up play and getting on the end of crosses from wide areas.

The 50-year-olds inexperience in Europe has also been a concern, especially for a Manchester United side that is desperate to lift their third Champions League crown. Moyes’ CV may not be enticing to United supporters, but the same could be said for some of the top managers in world football today.

Jurgen Klopp, Antonio Conte and Pep Guardiola were men that lacked European experience and trophies prior to being appointed manager at their current clubs. These three coaches in particular, have succeeded domestically, and have made a statement in Europe despite their inexperience – so United fans shouldn’t be worried. Although it’s a big gamble hiring a manger without any European experience, history shows that it could reap great rewards, especially under the guidance of Ferguson.

Moyes’ six-year deal with Manchester United is a big step in the Scot’s career, but a step that he deserves. Succeeding arguably the greatest manager in the English game will be a nervy task; however Moyes’ team structure, longevity, Premier League experience, tactical comprehension and a great eye for youth talent make the Scotsman an ideal candidate for the job.

Ferguson had a few positive things to say on Moyes’ hiring, 

“When we discussed the candidates that we felt had the right attributes we unanimously agreed on David Moyes,” Ferguson said.

“David is a man of great integrity with a strong work ethic. I’ve admired his work for a long time and approached him as far back as 1998 to discuss the position of Assistant Manager here,” he said.

He was a young man then at the start of his career and has since gone on to do a magnificent job at Everton. There is no question he has all the qualities we expect of a manager at this Club,” he added.

 

Ferguson was searching for a manager that could bring continuity to a well-assembled side that need to improve in certain areas. With more funds to spend, and the guidance of Ferguson, the sky is the limit for Moyes.

 Remember, Rome wasn’t built in one day.

Argentina

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

Published

on

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia

The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.

Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.

Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.

Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.

Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.

In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.

Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.

Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Colombia

With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.

In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.

Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.

Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.

Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Key Stats

  • Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
  • Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
  • Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
  • A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.

Match Deciding Duel

Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.

With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.

Prediction

Argentina 2-1 Colombia

The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.

Continue Reading

Article

Spain vs England: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

Published

on

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final

As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.

Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.

In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.

Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.

England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.

A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.

Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.

We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.

Team News and Predicted XI

Spain

Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.

Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.

Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.

Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams

Spain vs England: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

England

England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.

Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.

Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.

Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Key Stats

  • A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
  • A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
  • Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
  • England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.

Match Deciding Duel

Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)

Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.

Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Prediction

Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)

England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.

Continue Reading

Argentina

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

Published

on

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A

Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.

Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.

A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.

On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.

This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.

Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.

Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Canada

Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.

Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and  Alphonso Davies.

Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Key Stats

  • Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
  • Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
  • A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
  • Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.

Match Deciding Duel

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.

Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.

Transfer Watch

Jonathan David

The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.

David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.

Prediction

Argentina 2-0 Canada

Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.

Continue Reading

Home » Teams » Everton » David Moyes: Manchester United Has Hired The Right Man

Trending