Now that Euro Qualifiers are over with, it’s time for some real action as many top teams square-off in some international “Friendlies”. If you are missing club soccer like the rest of the world, take some time and watch a game or two and appreciate the beautiful game.
Mexico vs. Belarus
Mexico saw victory over the Netherlands with two goals from revived star Carlos Vela and one from Javier Hernandez. Despite this big win, Miguel Herrera will use this game to try out other prospects in order to build a stronger side for Copa America and the Copa Oro. Paul Aguilar, Giovanni Dos Santos and Raul Jimenez will feature for the team, but the rest of the squad will be built up with second and third team players.
Ireland vs. USA
USA will be looking for some redemption after their 2-1 loss to Columbia a few days ago. They will not need to fear LA Galaxy’s Robbie Keane as he will rejoin the Galaxy early ahead of their conference championship on Nov. 23 against the Seattle Sounders. Ireland has a host of good EPL performers including Shane Long of Southampton, Seamus Coleman and Darren Gibson, both from Everton.
Portugal vs. Argentina
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will meet again in a game that sets to decide, “Who is the best International Performer”? This will be a special match as it will be held at the “Field of Dreams” in Old Trafford, home of Ronaldo’s former team, Manchester United, and home of current club member, Angel Di Maria. Messi had an incredible run at the World Cup that ended with a second-place finish and a Golden Ball Award. Argentina will be coming off of a 2-1 victory over Croatia and Portugal off a 1-0 win over Armenia. Both Ronaldo and Messi scored game winning goals in these matches. Many of Argentina’s best players will be present, including Javier Mascherano, Sergio Aguero and Angel Di Maria. Despite the result of this match, there is no doubt that they are the two best players in the world at the moment.
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Spain vs. Germany
Germany seemed to have hit rough waters after their World Cup win in Brazil, losing to Argentina and Poland and drawing with Ireland. They will need to assert their global dominance over Spain, who have seemed to hit rock bottom as they have moved down to number 10 in the FIFA rankings. Their ejection from the last World Cup spelled disaster, and they still can find their feet completely. In their last two games, they have scored seven goals, conceding none. Maybe they can continue this run and regain some dignity with a good result over Germany.
France vs. Sweden
Zlatan Ibrahimovic and company will take on “Les Bleus” in France. France had an OK run at the World Cup making it to the Quarterfinals, losing 1-0 to Germany. They are undefeated in their last five games, beating both Portugal and Spain. Sweden are also undefeated in their last five, but with more draws than wins.
Scotland vs. England
England will take on their neighbors from the North, Scotland, in a match that has more bragging rights than anything. The match will be held at Celtic Park in Scotland. England is undefeated in their last five games, winning them all, while Scotland’s only defeat in their last five came against Germany. England has a much more dominant side, but in the game of soccer, stats don’t always win. Emotions should be high and will play a factor in the outcome of this match.
Chile vs. Uruguay
Chile is undefeated in their last five matches while Uruguay will be coming off a loss after penalties to Costa Rica. Luis Suarez will not feature for Uruguay as he was sent back to Barcelona early for training. Uruguay will have to learn to play without Suarez if they are to make their mark in the Copa America because Suarez will miss the tournament, due to his sanctions from FIFA for biting. Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez will feature in the match while Uruguay will have to suffice with Edinson Cavani.
Featured Photo Credit: Fifa.com
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