Monday, February 28, 2011
Argentina v Brazil 1-3 2010 South American World Cup Qualifiers
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Shakira - Waka Waka "Esto Es Africa" (VJ Percy Tribal Video Mix)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
[M/V] 2AM - No.1 [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Asian Song]
Thursday, February 24, 2011
African Nations Cup
South Africa: Yikes! In three matches Bofana Bofana got two draws and a loss, and never really looked very dangerous. When I traveled to South Africa last year, the people there were very worried that they would put together a shameful performance as host. This tournament result likely does nothing to give South Africans comfort. That said, Germany looked uncertain and ineffective as early as a year before their World Cup, and neither Japan nor South Korea seemed like world-beaters in 2000 or 2001.
Senegal: One begins to wonder whether the great form that Senegal showed in 2002 was just a one-off performance. After missing 2006 and getting booted out of the African Nations Cup, it seems as though they have crashed back down to earth.
Nigeria: I remember watching Nigeria's quarterfinal run in the 1998 World Cup and thinking, "wow, this team is the future of soccer, and once they win it all, they may never relinquish the trophy again." Now, chalk part of that to youthful over-exuberance, but until their rather ignominious collapse at the hands of Denmark, they looked supremely skilled, utterly confident and cool, and an order of magnitude more athletic than any other team in the Cup. Ten years later, and their form has steadily declined. They were rightfully beaten by a better Ghanaian team, and one wonders if they will again miss the World Cup. For a team with their talent, a great deal of criticism has to be heaped on the completely dysfunctional Nigerian FA, but much criticism also has to be laid at the feet of the players who often play without passion and steel.
Cameroon: For most of the last 25 years, the Indomitable Lions have been the class of African football, and in many ways the other African nation owe a debt of gratitude to Cameroon, but just at the point where African soccer seemed to be rising, Cameroon fell apart. Like Nigeria, they missed the last World Cup, and also like Nigeria their FA seemed in disarray. Unlike Nigeria, though, Cameroon seems to have pulled their act together, and though they cannot simply out-talent their opponents like they did in the past, it is comforting to see that the Indomitable Lions have won all sorts of ways. After an embarrassing performance against Egypt, they won their next to matches by an 8-1 aggregate, and they then pulled out an extra time quarterfinal win. With Samuel Eto'o getting healthy, this team could make some noise in 2010.
Egypt: Remember them? They're the defending champs, they are playing effective football, and depending on how they perform against Ivory Coast, one might make a strong case for Egypt returning to a position that they have not seen in some time.
Ghana & Cote d'Ivoire: These are clearly the ascendant teams in Africa. They are sending loads of top-shelf players to Europe, and they play well together. Ghana has to be the favorite to do well in 2010, and if the Ivorians continue to show class and attack, then you have to put them right there with the Ghanaians.
It's still way too early to pick favorites or dark-horses for 2010, but Ghana 2008 has given us a good look at what we might expect in two years. If nothing else, let's hope that South Africa features the kind of fun football that we've seen in Ghana... What are your thoughts on the African Nations Cup? Feel free to share at the spotlightsoccer.com forums.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Eight Essential Team Building Skills Learnt From the 2010 South African World Cup
The World cup in South Africa has been extraordinary, with the majority of the competitions favorite teams, and stars failing to perform leading to an unlikely end of the competition. What are the essential management lessons we have learnt from the unpredictable results of this World cup?
Even Nostradamus would of found it hard to predict the failure of Argentina, Brazil, England, France, and Italy to perform up to their expectations in this once in four year football showpiece. Neither have many of the worlds millionaire superstar players performed, being outplayed by lesser known players in the competition.
What are the essential business management skills we can learn from this extraordinary World Cup?
1. Communication Skills
France the once celebrated World champions imploded in almost spectacular style. leading to allegations of no communication between management, and players. This traditional dictatorial style of management- you listen, and do. Could be to blame for the reason team France revolted, and went home to an angry public.
The lesson: Communicate, discuss and evaluate together with your team
2. Motivation
The England team, once the tournaments favorites looked miserable and lacked any motivation when playing- the price an early exit with a thrashing by what pundits claimed was by an inferior team. Obviously the manager did not recognize the signs this team were not interested in performing, in management terms he played the same team that never proved it could not perform..
The lesson: communicate, award those who are willing team players, and change the team structure.
3. Technical Skills
Argentina were motivated, played as a team but one thing Diego Maradona ignored was the need to change the technical side of the team, depending on their opponents. A highly motivated team faces many challenges, and has to be flexible as situations change- the result, a quarter final defeat by Germany.
The lesson: After motivating your team, focus on enhancing their technical skills, and change the structure of the team for any new challenges.
4. Plan B
Brazil, the favorites looked like they were cruising to the final, until they met the Netherlands. They imploded, and looked like they had no other game plan options, as they lost a lead after 45 minutes. Any manager has to have a plan B, Brazil did not.
The lesson: Teams can be changed, options can be kept in case a situation suddenly changes. Lacking a second option could turn success into a long term defeat.
5. Surprise
England and Italy were predictable, they could not surprise their opponents who planned a game plan around this- Germany played the unknown, the surprise factor. Surprise can put any opponent in disarray, unsettle them and beat off the competition. Being too predictable leaves you exposed to your own weaknesses, as opponents soon wise up to them
The Lesson: Unsettle your competition, be more innovative, build up on your strengths and offer an element of surprise.
6. The "Prima Donna" Factor
Being already successful, does not mean you are the best. The banks learnt this in 2008, individual superstars who did not perform- learnt this in the world cup. Performance as a team, over rides past success in team building and creates winners.
The lesson: If big names may not perform, offer options, bring in an alternative, never depend on what was previously successful- as competition changes and prima donnas that do not perform could be replaced.
7. Teamwork
The successful teams in this World cup had all one common factor- Teamwork. Despite their perceived individual limitations, as a team they brought the best out in other, and were willing to sacrifice. Team Ghana, New Zealand,Paraguay, Uruguay, Holland, Spain and Germany performed as a team.
The lesson: An average team can perform better than a team of superstar individuals. If success depends on a team, each player no matter their weaknesses can help outperform the most successful individuals- if they work on how each member can benefit the team in their own way.
8. Invest in Youth
England, France and Italy left out youth and opted out for experience. Brazil and Argentina left valuable young players out of the team- preferring tested professionals.
Germany, Ghana and Uruguay opted for youth, and outperformed their initial expectations. England, France, Italy were outperformed, and shown that youth can beat experience.
The lesson: Invest in the young, experience does matter but youth can bring in fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and ultimately success in an uneven playing field.
Management is often about dealing with constant change, and building a versatile team that can deal effectively with any new challenges relating to this change. To build and nurture a successful team, you need communication, fresh ideas, innovation, motivation and technical skills. Teams also need to change, bring in fresh ideas and invest in youth.
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Do you like what Mark writes? He can write an article for you email Mark
Monday, February 21, 2011
Fascinating Things To Do During 2010 Soccer Cup Series In South Africa
Everyone tries to get the most from his/hers holiday because this is prime time spend. No wonder that one will always here the remark:"My holiday was too short!" The problem that most tourists make is inadequate planning because the holiday mood is so overwhelming, that they forget that a holiday is only 2 weeks or a month long and that they are trying to cram everything in this short time.
One can actually visit double the places if your pre-planning was done in advance. If you had pre-knowledge of places to visit and things to do--being specific--- so much more can be achieved.
In planning for your visit to South Africa, you must think, and know, the places that you want to visit, bearing in mind that transport facilities are NOT what people are used to in America, Europe and Australia and this must form part of your planning.
Here is a summary of places and what to expect in each area:
1. Johannesburg--mainly museums, zoos(big five), casinos, no real scenery.
2. Pretoria--Some scenery, monuments, zoo (big five). Within reach of Pretoria--Lowveld BEST SCENERY EVER!Names like God's Window etc. Numerous hot spas.
3. Kwazulu---Coastal, nice and hot. Drakensberg---fascinating scenery.
4. Eastern Cape--Coastal as well as maybe world-best scenery.
5. Western Cape--Cape Town--who does not know beautiful this place is with beaches, mountains, vineards, hot springs etc.
6. Freestate--Flat except for few areas like Golden Gate.
7. Northern Provice---A little bit of everything except beaches.
This article attempts to give an overall picture of what to expect and what to consider when still in the planning stages of your holiday to South Africa which might change your accommodation venue.
Hi, I am Chris. I have been living in South Africa for all my life -64 years and have been following the politics and news daily. I am a Pacifist, fullstop.
I have experienced the many facets of this country -some which are being portrayed in my website
http://southafricanholidays.blogspot.com/
http://safricanholiday.blogspot.com/
I always feel that a miners world and a South African's world is totally removed from those of other jobs or nations and that people should get insight into these worlds.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Australian Socceroos World Cup 2010 Bound
The Australian Socceroos qualifying for the 2010 World Cup is the cumulation of a long-held dream. Soccer in Australia is not as popular as rugby. This may be changing due to efforts to revamp the sport and the impressive game record of the Australian Socceroos. The Socceroos are Australia's national team that plays in the international tournaments. In 2006, they shocked and delighted fans by qualifying to play in the World Cup tournament.
The Socceroos were founded in 1922 and had a dismal tournament season. Due to Australia's location and lack of experienced soccer players and the high cost of travel, Australia did not play regularly on the international scene. Eventually the cost of travel lowered enough to allow the team to play more games that are international but their record remained unmentionable.
In 2006, the FFA, Football Federation Australia, decided to revamp the team and promote it as contenders for the coveted World Cup. New managers, new players, new strategies and the use of new technologies whipped the team into World Cup quality shape. Suddenly the Socceroos became household names and Australia's passion for soccer has burned steadily ever since.
The 2010 World Cup will be played in South Africa and it is estimated that around 6,000 Australian fans will attend the tournament. They will be playing Germany, Ghana and Serbia all of whom are previous champions and Germany has won the Cup three times so far. This promises for exciting, nail-biting, adrenaline pumping competition.
The Socceroo team colors are a gold jersey and socks with green shorts. Socceroo fans will fill the stadium with gold flags adorned with green kangaroos and stars. The young and old wishing to show their support for their beloved Socceroos eats up wristbands, trading cards and other team memorabilia.
Various fan groups for the tournament plan entertainment, sightseeing and celebrations. The Fanatics are renting a stadium and will host a concert by Powderfinger. The Green and Gold Army are planning a group trip for 500 fans. There promises to be plenty of activities to occupy non-game time.
Australia is hoping to host the 2018 Soccer World Cup. They are already making plans to remodel Sydney's Olympic Stadium to accommodate more fans. They are will also install a fully movable glass dome. Australia is having their winter season when other countries are in their summer season. So the dome will protect against inclement weather. Australia is planning to out do themselves as hosts of the World Cup 2018. This will be a challenge after their spectacular Olympic hosting. It all hinges on how well the Australian Socceroos do in next year's World Cup though!
For the Australian Socceroos World Cup 2010 is a huge opportunity for what is, still in Australia, an under-rated sport. The Socceroos doing well on the world stage - would see the local soccer scene take off against its many competitors for players and funding in the local Australian scene.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Wimbledon 2010 - SF - Nadal vs Murray (HD) Part 1
Thursday, February 17, 2011
England World Cup 2010 Qualification
I know the Euro 2008 finals tournament hasn't even started yet and unfortunately England will not be there as we failed along with all other home nations to qualify.
But at least we have the World Cup 2010 qualifiers to look forward too with the hope that
England can qualify from their group and go forward to South Africa. In recent years it has been a turgid affair following England. With the over hyped press before every major tournament and the equally vitriolic dissecting of the England football teams failings after being dumped out of the latest tournament. It's worth noting here in my opinion.
England is over rated with only Spain of the so called big teams regularly underachieving as often. Looking back England has only ever reached the final of one international Football tournament which makes us the worst performing of all the Countries that have won the world cup. In fact England's record in the Euros has been even worse their best finish being fourth in the 1996 Euros, hosted in England. Anyway enough of the England bashing I am after all English and would love to see England lift the World cup.
This is where I think not qualifying for Euro 2008 may have been a blessing in disguise as expectation is now at its lowest for many years and maybe nearer to realistic expectation levels. For me it is not the fact that England has won nothing in 42 years only a handful of countries have shared the major tournament trophies since then. I would like to see England enter the world cup qualifiers with a realistic press and void of all the nationalistic over hype we get through every tournament. The is after all some hope with Capello taking charge if nothing else he should be able to eradicate the prima Donna egos from which ever squad he chooses. And being at the twilight of his illustrious career appears to care little for courting the press. I still hold hope for the World Cup 2010. If nothing else perhaps we can entertain on our way to qualification.
So why not book tickets and cheer England to the World cup finals in South Africa World Cup Tickets South Africa [http://www.worldcupticketssouthafrica.com]
Get tickets for all of England's World Cup qualifying games at World Cup Tickets South Africa [http://www.worldcupticketssouthafrica.com]
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Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How Often is the World Cup of Soccer Held?
The World Cup is soccer's biggest stage - it is the championship of the most widely played sport in the all of the world. The talk, preparation and qualifying for each incarnation of the World Cup tournament seems to be going on all the time - but the final of soccer's biggest tournament only take place during a one month period every four years.
Many fans, clubs and organizations argue that the World Cup tournament itself, as well as the sport of soccer would benefit greatly from increasing the frequency of soccer's world championship tournament. Some present very valid points and cite that other major sporting events that hold tournaments on an international level are capable of organizing those tournaments once every year.
There is no doubt that the World Cup's allure wouldn't be hurt by holding the tournament every three or even every two years. It would probably increase soccer's international popularity and would certainly do well to increase the tournaments revenue potential - holding the tournament every two years would, in effect, double the amount of revenue created by the biggest international sports tournament. Reducing the number of years between World Cup tournaments would most likely also allow the qualifying team's players to be more recognizable to fans - the players would be in front of the fans and on a big stage potentially twice as many times during their careers. This could potentially make fans feel more connected and attached to the players on the World Cup teams and possibly even cause an increase in the amount of people who tune in to watch the World Cup finals.
Why Every Four Years?
World Cup purists argue that every four years is ideal for the tournament and it is relatively unlikely that any change in World Cup frequency will actually occur - at least within the near future. It does take quite a bit of preparation to get ready for a month long tournament which draws in teams from more than thirty countries and fans from probably more nations than that.
The host country is voted on and selected long before the tournament will actually be held and the lengths to which the organizers go to ensure that everything is not just prepared, but perfect for each World Cup tournament are truly exhaustive. Other major sports tournaments may host players and fans from all over the world but few, if any can match the sheer magnitude of the World Cup tournament.
More than 200 countries will vie for a spot in the final phase of the World Cup tournament in 2010 to be held in South Africa, and of those more than 200, only thirty one teams will make the cut to appear in the World Cup (the South African team receives an automatic bye to compete as the host nation, making the total team count an even thirty two.) Many believe that trying to cram all of the qualifying and all of the necessary preparation into a shorter time period would hurt the quality and the overall success of the tournament - and that could very well be true.
The only other sporting events that are truly comparable (even bigger than the World Cup), are the Summer and Winter Olympic Games, which are both also held once every four years due to all of the preparation of the destination and the athletes who are to be involved.
Holding the tournament only once every four years only adds to the majesty of the World Cup and contributes to the sheer desire and determination of the many teams involved to first make the cut to the finals and then compete for the prestigious title of World Cup Champion.
A recognized leader in sports travel packages and tours, Roadtrips provides 2010 World Cup tickets, packages, hotels and accommodations for the 2010 World Cup of Soccer in South Africa.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Russia Slovenia 2:1, WC2010 South Africa Qualifier, Highlights from the bold on 14.11.2009
Monday, February 14, 2011
Recap of Spain Journey to Semi Finals World Cup2010
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Luxury South Africa Accommodations For World Cup 2010
To know South African culture, is to know hospitality. South Africa will welcome the world in 2010 as it hosts the FIFA Football World Cup. This will give visitors the added opportunity to explore South Africa and all the natural beauty it has to offer.
A range of luxury accommodation can be found, from the vibrant city of Johannesburg to the beaches of the Durban and Cape Town. Your stay in a luxury South African hotel will be nothing less than sublime. The Hout Bay Manor built in 1871 is renowned as one of Cape Town's most graceful landmarks. Recently restored the Hout Bay Manor offers 20 individually designed ensuite rooms.
In Durban a World Cup host city treat yourself to a stay at 230 Palm Garden. This 5 star luxury accommodation is just a short distance from the Moses Mabhida stadium one of the venues for FIFA Football World Cup. This is a home from home for the executive or discerning traveler who requires more than a hotel room.
The Monarch Hotel in Johannesburg places itself at the forefront of guest hospitality. This South African hotel has been transformed from the Old Saxonworld post office with a contemporary feel and boasts 12 superb suites.
A tranquil and relaxing oasis awaits you along the Garden Route. The Herolds Bay Hotel just a 4 hour drive from Cape Town or 10 minutes from George airport. Unwind next to the pool or on the stunning beach just a short walk away. Indulge in a cocktail at the bar and watch the sunsets over Herolds Bay.
Golf enthusiasts can stay at the Simola Hotel Country Club and Spa. High in the hills above the town of Knysna along the Garden Route you'll find Simola Golf and Country Estate. Fairways merge with its stunning natural surroundings, forests descending down to the Knysna River.
So if you're planning a trip to South Africa for the FIFA World Cup or looking to be surrounded with luxury and natural beauty, http://www.BookMyRoom-SA.com has a range of luxury South Africa hotels to suit.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Cristiano Ronaldo Free Kick vs. Olympique De Marseille HD.mp4
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Aprés Match - The Latest Weather from South Africa
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Notable Absentees at the 2010 World Cup
32 of the world's best footballing nations will assemble in South Africa this summer to compete for the Jules Rimet Trophy. However there are some teams who missed the bus despite being widely expected to qualify.
Here is a look at the list of notable absentees at the 2010 World Cup.
Egypt:- Seven time African champions Egypt lost in a playoff to bitter North African rivals Algeria. They did take revenge by annihilating the Desert Foxes months later in the semifinals of the African Cup of Nations but nothing will make up for the disappointment of missing out on the world's biggest soccer tournament.
Russia:- After their heroics at Euro 2008 where they knocked out the Netherlands, Russia were expected to qualify comfortably for the World Cup. They finished a close second to Germany in their group and were drawn against Slovenia in the playoffs. Leading 2-0 in the first leg, Guus Hiddink's men conceded a late away goal. It was to cost Arshavin and co. dearly as Slovenia knocked them out on away goals by winning 1-0 in the second leg.
Croatia:- With the likes of Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic, Danijel Pranjic and Darijo Srna in their side, Slaven Bilic's side should have made it to the finals with ease. However England, with memories of their failure to qualify for Euro 2008 still fresh in their mind, whipped them 5-1 in a decisive qualifier to end their hopes of qualification.
Czech Republic:- The Czechs failed to check in for the World Cup, finishing third in a group they were widely expected to dominate. Petr Rada was shown the door for a poor start and while his replacement Ivan Hasek did try his best, he was unable to repair the damage.
Costa Rica:- Los Ticos started off well in the Hexagonal but a string of three straight defeats allowed Honduras to catch up with them. They needed a win against the USA in their final match to get automatic qualification, but were denied by a Jonathan Bornstein goal in the dying seconds of the game. They therefore finished fourth and had to be content with a place in the playoffs. Uruguay, who had lost to Australia in the playoffs in 2006, were determined not to let lightning strike twice, and eliminated Costa Rica in the Inter Continental playoff.
Arty Holani is a football news writer. You can find more information about World Cup Shirts and have a look at the best World Cup Jerseys
Monday, February 07, 2011
FIFA World Cup 2010 - Football Fever is Back
After four years of waiting from the previous World Cup games which were held in 2006 in Germany, the FIFA World Cup 2010 tournament is finally back again. This time, the games are going to be even more competitive and challenging because those countries who qualified are among the world's strongest teams and they are competing against each other this mid summer for the championship title.
And this year, it is the 19th FIFA World Cup tournament which will be held in South Africa which is one of the youngest members of FIFA. The final draw for choosing the hosting country took place on 4th December 2009 in Cape Town. South Africa has become the first African country to win the bidding in hosting this prestigious event. This exciting tournament lasts for 4 weeks which will start from June 11th and end on July 11th.
In between August 2007 to and November 2009, qualifying matches are being organized in every zone throughout the world to select the participating teams. A total of 32 teams have been finalized for this world cup including the hosts. All those who have been finalized have been divided into of 8 groups and each group consist of 4 teams. The best 2 teams from every group will automatically qualify for the next stage. This is an elimination games where the winner will be up to compete for the next stage while the loser will be eliminated.
So, are you geared up to cheer your favorite team in this FIFA World Cup 2010?
BUT before that,
- Do you have all the info from the past to the most recent activities of your all the team
- Do you have all the analysis of the teams?
- Do you know what their strategy for their games?
- Do you know what is their strength and weaknesses the teams?
- Do you know who is the focus player of the team
- Do you know who stand a chances to win the World Cup 2010?
- Do you have all the schedules for each and every match?
IF your answer is NO to any of these question above, then it's not too late because I just found something which is very interesting and very useful information for this 2010 FIFA World Cup which I would like to share with every football fans out there who is just as excited like me.
My name is Ryan. I'm not just a football fan but a real BIG fan for everything related to soccer. I get so excited when it comes to football.
I've checked on this information and it's contains a very comprehensive information that every football fan must not miss. This piece of information is ALSO BEST for those who love football betting. It contain a deep analysis of every participating teams. The information here simply amaze me and I'm so anxious and excited to wait for that days to come.
If you want to equipped yourself with the most comprehensive information for the FIFA World Cup 2010, then this something you must not miss.
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Steve Nash's US band wins Showdown
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
Export-Import in South Africa
Image : http://www.flickr.com
South Africa is a middle-income country which lies on the southern tip of Africa. This beautiful country is bounded by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe lie on its North, while Swaziland and Mozambique lie on its East. Although the country is categorized as a middle-income country, it is blessed with abundant natural resources that help in boosting up its economy.
Even though, many cities and towns constitute S.A, advanced development is significant in four major areas only which are: Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. Unfortunately, the other parts of the country aside from these four major areas manifest poverty and poor development. However, some of these areas are recently showing growth in economic development.
Unlike highly industrialized countries, development in third world countries is rather slow. Despite this reality, South Africa utilizes its resources and skills in establishing global trading. The three major exports for which the country is famous for are diamonds, gold, and platinum.
These three major products are exported into the United States, Japan, United Kingdom, China, and Italy. All these other countries rely mainly on the country for the supply of these goods. The country was able to export $7.5 million worth of products and merchandise to the United States alone in 2006. Over the years, the amount of S.A's export significantly increased, thus improving the economy of this country.
The United States has established trading with South Africa which is manifested in the export-import commitment that these two countries have entered upon. In fact, the United States is exporting an exuberant amount of merchandise to the country as well. The top three major imports of the country from the United States include chemicals, machinery, and petroleum products. Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Saudi Arabia import some goods to South Africa as well. These countries import energy, capital goods, food, and fuel to S.A.
Aside from chemicals, machinery, and petroleum, the United States also import telecommunications equipment, new and used passenger cars, materials handling equipment, trucks, buses, special purpose vehicles, civilian aircrafts, and industrial machines.
Based from the amount of these imported goods, fuel seems to be taking the top priority. South Africa imports not only petroleum, but coal as well. This only shows that there is a great need for fuel in the country. Food products such as corn, oats, barley, and sorghum are some of the fastest growing imports too.
The import and export activities of South Africa are well guided by the Foreign Trade Organization which establishes guidelines and requirements for export and import activities. Duties, taxes, and import surcharges are imposed by the organization for the protection of the trading ventures of South Africa.
South Africa Export Import ventures show a positive inclination toward South Africa Export activities.