willieMaradona opted again for the 4-4-2 in the friendly match against France, probably because it was successful against Scotland & because of no option of an enganche ( Riquelme, Veron). He also stated for tactical reasons to defend the flacks which France does, it allowed Argentina to counter-attack, which they did so very well. My only concern is will Maradona choose to continue with Agüero or choose a #9, which I think would be pretty wise, but who? Maybe Milito, Crespo? And, is Papa really a solution to Left- Back. Honestly, I'd love to have Sorin back, he brought energy and attack from the flack while also bring width to the field, which compliment Riquelme's long passing.
All in all, it was an excellent match which our defense actually looked solid and where we can actually score against top teams, hopefully in qualifiers we'll do what's actually expected of us!
18.02.2009
FeriAtsSorin is a very sad story. The first time I watched him, I said this guy's going to be legendary. He had quick feet, explosive power, decent touch...But he never really made it in European football. His tactical dicipline is at the level of 7 year old's, he spends more time in and around the opponents box than left back and causes his team get caught off balance a lot.
Maradona is doing quite well not playing him. An avarage left back is better than an irresponsible talented one.
19.02.2009
willieI understand your point & agree on some . But, Sorin was a motivator & captain which helped others preform at a higher level. Though there are better left-backs, others I feel don't have quite the mentality like him. And his eccentric style only helped Argentina, which attacking football is only expected. We could easily change formation with him, like Zanetti, which improved our tactical flexibility.
But thank you for the comment. I think Emiliano Insua could fill his spot in a few years if he continues to grow with Liverpool & hopefully the national team, because the left side is still a liability.
19.02.2009
FeriAtsI do not follow Argentina on day to day basis, so I have to tkae your word for it about Sorin's leadership. I am a bit suprised though. I thought Maradona was in a semi god status and his presence would be enough of leadership.
20.02.2009
willieVery true. Maradona's presence should inspire 100 Argentina teams, but you need players who can command & lead as well. That's why Maradona still has a captain in Mascherano to motivate. You still need leadership out on the playing field.
20.02.2009
Robert O'CarlosI've no idea how Argentina organise their management/coaching, but I think it's telling that something like 40% of surveyed fans didn't expect the Maradona appointment to be successful. Maradona was a phenomenal player, but is that really enough to inspire a team?
It's tricky because he is seen as royalty in Argentina, yet people are pragmatic enough to know that doesn't necessarily translate to being able to manage.
21.02.2009
willieIt's obvious that being a great player doesn't translate to being a successful coach, but what Argentina really needs is a boost of moral & inspiration. What Maradona will bring is the passion & heart back to the team. Thankfully, the AFA has surrounded him with an excellent technical staff. We might as well take a risk, cause its better than keeping Basile & knowing we would falter
21.02.2009
