Posts Tagged ‘World Cup’

Bradley proves safe and successful pair of hands

// May 25th, 2010 // No Comments » // Uncategorized

When Bruce Arena quit after a disappointing United States campaign at the 2006 World Cup, Fabio Capello and Juergen Klinsmann were mentioned as possible replacements.

In the end, the U.S. went for the familiar — the tried and tested Bob Bradley.

Bradley, a studious man with a background in college soccer, was never going to generate the buzz of a big-name foreign coach but he knew the player pool well, knew the U.S. system and has now proved he knows how to get the best out of both.

Qualifying for the World Cup is expected these days for the U.S. but beating European champions Spain on the way to the final of the Confederations Cup in South Africa last year was a pleasant surprise to even the country’s most optimistic fans.

Bradley, 52, already has 30 years of coaching experience, having started at Ohio University at the age of 22.

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Donovan yearns to shine on world stage

// May 25th, 2010 // No Comments » // Uncategorized

Landon Donovan is considered the best American soccer player of all time but he still yearns to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

It has been a hectic year for Donovan who, after a row with his L.A. Galaxy team mate David Beckham, followed the England international’s example and opted for a loan spell in Europe.

While Beckham’s period with AC Milan ended in an injury which has ruled him out of the World Cup, Donovan enjoyed a successful spell with Everton which further enhanced his reputation.

After failing to make the grade in Germany, where Donovan had two spells with Bayer Leverkusen and a brief loan with Bayern Munich, the Californian’s success at Goodison Park showed he definitely had what it took to be a top player outside the United States.

“The experience was a priceless one for me. The games were always fast and ultra-competitive and my time there certainly made me a better player,” he said.

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U.S. must decide first team to reach potential

// May 25th, 2010 // No Comments » // Uncategorized

The United States need to establish a first-choice line-up quickly if they are to transform the successes of the past year into a long run at the World Cup.

Victory over European champions Spain in the Confederations Cup last year gave a huge boost to the self-belief of Bob Bradley’s squad and this was followed by the U.S. taking a two-goal lead over Brazil in the final, before losing 3-2.

Qualification for the World Cup finals was achieved with relatively few complications. But the final match of the campaign, a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica in October, may yet have an impact on the campaign in South Africa.

Although the result had no bearing on the U.S.’s qualification, the team suffered two serious injuries.

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