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Time Has Arrived For This Manchester United Striker To Take This World By Storm

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There’s something strangely disappointing and unrequited about Wayne  Rooney’s overall career for both club and country. Yet, here is a player who is destined to eclipse Sir Bobby Charlton’s goal scoring records for both Manchester United and England. And although there is little doubt that he will achieve both benchmarks, Rooney’s critics have never shied away from pointing out that he has failed to produce on the big occasion.

Rooney and Sir Alex Ferguson

Rooney and Sir Alex Ferguson

Anyone who was witness to Rooney’s long range goal from the half way line away at Upton Park earlier this season will agree that this guy has something special about him, a rare talent that only a few are blessed with. Not many players have the vision to even sense the opportunity, let alone the confidence and the technique to execute it. Rooney, at this best, is as good as it gets, as good as anything the British have churned out since good ‘ol George Best in his prime.

When he scored that screamer of a volley for Everton against Arsenal in 2002, the world stood up and took notice. There was an unanimous feeling that a real star was born. And when he came bursting through against Croatia in the summer of 2004 at the Euros in Portugal, announcing himself on the global stage with four goals in two matches against Switzerland and Croatia, the hopes were raised. Rooney was still a raw gem, but there was little doubt that he would go on to become a diamond, a sparkling one at that. But that brilliant burst of teenage energy, has so often, particularly in major tournaments, proved to be somewhat of a false dawn for the gifted striker when it comes to strutting his stuff in the white of England.

Rooney was undoubtedly one of the most gifted, yet idiosyncratic talents to come out of England for decades. It is aggression and flair, which when effectively channeled, can make supporters fall in love with the players the most. But they hardly complement each other, rarely cohabiting in the same head space. Rooney and Manchester United seemed to be a match made in Heaven. Not only did he have the ability and the talent to put on a Manchester United shirt, but he had a certain swagger about him. And only Manchester United can boast of having a long history of such necessary evils. Take Mark Hughes for example – a man capable of scoring some of the best goals you’re likely to see, yet perfectly capable of losing his temper, and booting someone in the genitals the very next moment. Something which Rooney has already accomplished in the ’06 World Cup by ‘stamping’ his mark on Ricardo Carvalho. Yet, Rooney was a player who wore his heart on his sleeve and with Rooney around, you just knew you’d get nothing but commitment. You still do.

Rooney was like Roy Keane without the sadism, battle ready at all times. He wasn’t yet the complete player back then. His balance and touch left something to be desired, but he had time on his side. And more importantly, an incredible work ethic and dedication towards the game. The start to his Manchester United journey was nothing short of astonishing, a fitting start for a player, whom many felt wasn’t worth the vast sum of money Manchester United had to cough up in the summer of 2004. But all the talk had dissipated soon after as an 18-year old teenager smashed a hattrick against a hapless Fernerbahce outfit, looking comfortably the best player in red. United’s investment seemed more like a bargain now. The English media, the public, finally had somebody to pin their hopes on. There was a sense of expectation around Wayne Rooney, an optimism that only a player of his caliber could provoke. The Guardian’s Rob Smyth, a lifelong United fan, had this to say after Rooney’s debut blitz – “The hairs on the back of my neck are going ballistic.. we all knew he was good, but this was frightening.”

There was more to come from Rooney in his debut season. He made a mockery of Jerzy Dudek with a belter of a strike that beat the Liverpool keeper at his near post to give United a rare win at Anfield, scored a late winner against Pompey and thrilled United fans with another spectacular volley, this time against Newcastle. He seemed to be capable of executing them for fun, merely applying his sensational technique combined with a sense of disdain. The trajectory merely fell into place, much like Rooney himself became an integral part of United in his very first campaign. But it seemed to be one of United’s own that proved to be an obstruction in Rooney’s rise at United.

Cristiano Ronaldo was carving his own niche while Rooney was attracting the attention of the world, and soon, all of Ronaldo’s showboating and cockiness appeared to be backed up by an incredible technique and an unrelenting desire to be the world’s best, a quest that would drive United to a Champions League crown among several league titles, all in a fanatical pursuit of personal glory at all costs. Ronaldo was taller, faster, stronger and had girls swooning over him, while Rooney’s hunger and determination and his commitment to United’s cause were often rewarded with a defensive responsibility down United’s left wing. Recall the ’09 UCL final in Rome.

Rooney’s inherent nature to sacrifice himself for the team’s cause, his selfless attitude in dropping into midfield and performing his defensive duties, had ironically started to go against Rooney. Rooney had slowly started to become Sir Alex Ferguson’s “workhorse”, his man for a crisis, and without the presence of a Roy Keane like figure to plug the holes in United’s midfield, it’s a role that has been increasingly foisted on him by Ferguson. But to Rooney’s credit, he never complained, instead got on with the job. The UCL final in Rome was one of many such instances in which Rooney sacrificed personal glory for the team’s cause. Other players of Rooney’s caliber would undoubtedly sulk at the prospect of having to play second fiddle to someone else, but Rooney chose to be the bigger man. This apparent lack of ego is one of his finer points. Working hard for the team is something that is embedded in Rooney’s system, something he has never shied away from, and never will.

Ronaldo’s lust for success took him to the Bernabeu as he renewed his rivalry with Lionel Messi from closer quarters, the added spice of the Clasico added to the mix. The best player in the world was replaced by the best player at Wigan, but Rooney seemed to thrive at the opportunity of being United’s main man, banging in goals left right and center. His performance against AC Milan in the Round of 16 stage of the Champions League was vintage Rooney, causing Allesandro Nesta to concede Rooney was the best striker he had faced in his career. Soon, Mario Gomez would trod on his foot at the Allianz, and Manchester United’s season threatened to fall into pieces. Arjen Robben played spoilsport in the second leg, as an injured Rooney was taken off for John O’Shea. Rooney’s most prolific campaign till date, which had seen him smash 34 goals in 44 appearances, eventually ended in disappointment as United conceded the little to Chelsea on goal difference.

Off-field issues affected Rooney’s game heading into the World Cup in 2010, and a wretched showing from arguably the world’s best center forward at that point resulted in Capello’s team crashing out at the first knock out hurdle against bitter rivals Germany, Rooney’s biggest contribution at the Cup proving to be lambasting the England fans on camera after a drab goalless draw against Algeria, of all nations. So, while it was that horrendous tackle from Paulo Ferreira that curtailed his contribution in Germany in 2006, it was a sequence of off-field issues, including Rooney’s dislike of England’s Rustenburg training base, that ensured the star striker flopped for the second consecutive time at the biggest stage. It is these World Cup flops that have most damaged Wayne Rooney’s chances of being labelled in the same league as Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo as the best of his generation. There’s little doubt that Messi and Ronaldo are the very best, but neither have taken the World Cup by storm. Rooney undoubtedly has the talent to join Messi and Ronaldo on that elite platform at the doorstep of football utopia. It is the desire and drive that remains in question.

Wayne Rooney will know very well that the World Cup in Brazil remains his last chance to shine in a major international tournament while he is still at his peak. There are still many who doubt that Rooney is world-class quality. There is only one man who can prove them wrong. For England’s sake, let’s hope Roy Hodgson doesn’t stick him in a 4-4-2 and ask him to run the channels. Here is a lad who just loves to play football, and is mighty good at it. England needs a smiling Rooney at the top of his game, not the frustrated figure he cut in previous major tournaments. Rooney’s career has been about continual reinvention in the face of setbacks – it is time now for one last roll of the dice.

Argentina

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

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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.

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

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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.

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Argentina

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

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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.

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