90 Minutes Strong | June 2014

soccer is here to stayp.8-9

World Cup Specialp.14

Jersey maniap.6-7

sticker feverp.3

america’s x-factorp.10

life after landon

p.4

90 m

inut

es s

tro

ng

| no.

0 |

Jun

e 20

14Photo by Rosa C

avalcanti

Photo by Rosa Cavalcanti

contentsEditorial

Editor-in-ChiEfPedro Heizer

Staff writErTainara Maciel

ContributorSkarTik krisHnalyer

cesar diazJonaTHan scHneider

Jake VendraMinGraHaM nicHolJorGe Mendoza

PhotograPhErrosa caValcanTi

graPhiC dESignErJosePH feliciano

MEdia/Public rElations:[email protected]

advErtising:adVerTisinG@90MinuTessTronG.

coM

P.o.Box 970593Boca raTon, fl, 33497-0593

tElEPhonE:561-972-2728

Want to WritE?We are always looking to add writers to

our ever-growing list of writers. 90 Minutes Strong is

growing quickly and we will love to have new writers who want to get their

name out there!Email us at

[email protected] for more info.

Go and follow90 Minutes Strong

life after landonp.4

soccer is here to stayp.8-9


Like us on Facebook& follow us on Twitter to

join the90 Minutes Strong

Discussion

WElcoME

YOU Choose The Deal!

Promotional Packages Starting At

Call 7 days a week 8am - 11pm EST Promo Code: MB01141-800-746-3105CALL NOW – SAVE UP TO 50%!

O�ers above require 24-month commitment and credit quali�cation. iPad mini is 16 GB wi-� only. Remote viewing requires Wi-Fi connection or use of Hopper Transfers app.

moPromotional

Packages Starting At...

DISH TODAY!Upgrade to

FOR 12 MONTHSNot eligible for Hopper

or iPad mini offer

✔ NO Contracts.✔ NO Credit Check.✔ NO Commitment.

Credit Check.

Join Without a Contract!

Important Terms and Conditions: Promotional O�ers: Require activation of new qualifying DISH service. All prices, fees, charges, packages, programming, features, functionality and o�ers subject to change without notice. After 12-month promotional period, then-current everyday monthly price applies and is subject to change. ETF: If you cancel service during �rst 24 months, early cancellation fee of $20 for each month remaining applies. HD Free for Life: Additional $10/mo HD fee waived for life of current account; requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay with Paperless Billing. Premium Channels: 3-month premium o�er value is $165; after promotional period, then-current everyday monthly prices apply and are subject to change. Blockbuster @Home requires online DISH account, broadband Internet to stream content. HD-only channels not available with select packages. Hopper Features: AutoHop feature is only available with playback the next day of select primetime shows on ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC as part of PrimeTime Anytime feature. Both features are subject to availability. Installation/Equipment Requirements: Free Standard Professional Installation only. Certain equipment is leased and must be returned to DISH upon cancellation or unreturned equipment fees apply. Upfront and additional monthly fees may apply. Recording hours vary; 2000 hours based on SD programming. Equipment comparison based on equipment available from major TV providers as of 9/19/13. Watching live and recorded TV anywhere requires a broadband-connected, Sling-enabled DVR and compatible mobile device. Miscellaneous: O�ers available for new and quali�ed former customers, and subject to terms of applicable Promotional and Residential Customer agreements. State reimbursement charges may apply. Additional restrictions and taxes may apply. O�ers end 6/12/14. © 2013 DISH Network L.L.C. All rights reserved. HBO®, Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box O�ce, Inc. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. STARZ and related channels and service marks are property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. All new customers are subject to a one-time processing fee.

ADDHIGH SPEED INTERNETAS LOW AS ....

where availablemo.

Welcome to 90 Minutes Strong’s quarterly magazine.We’ve had a fantastic four years online and it just felt right to kick off a new chapter in our history during one of the biggest sporting events in the World.our purpose with this magazine is not to inform you of everyday statistics, quotes, and other common dated stories that soccer magazines give. When the concept of the magazine came to life it was simple: Give the fans insight beyond the boxscore, give them another point of view and grow their fan iQ.The core values of 90 Minutes strong remains the same. We cover the u.s. soccer Pyramid. no english Premier league, no Brazilian leagues, just soccer in the united states.We know that u.s. fans want to hear more than just recaps and statistics; we know fans want a way to enhance their knowledge of The Beautiful Game. at 90 Minutes strong, we compile statistical analysis and well-sup-ported opinions in order to give you those extra points in your fan iQ. To us, it’s not about “hearing it here first”, but rather giving you another fresh perspective on the soccer World.When it came to the magazine, i wanted to create something fresh and unique, just like our site. so, we’ve decided that we won’t print monthly magazines, but rather, quarterly magazines that will give you news that won’t “go bad” after a few days. our magazines are great for coffee tables, doctors offices, and other places where the casual fan can just pick one up and read without feeling as if the news is “old”.i call this current edition, the “edition zero”. This is our prototype and i think we did a fantastic job with it. Big thanks to all the writers who contributed to the stories, and our research department for a well-rounded magazine.if you are interested in writing for us, we would love to see what you got! Please send us an email at [email protected] with your name, information, and some sample writings and we will get back to you in regards to a writing position. in “edition zero” we focused more on the 2014 fifa World cup, we have over 40 pages filled with detailed history of all previous World cups, previews of all teams in the tournament, and a special on the united states Men’s national Team.so without further ado, welcome to 90 Minutes strong!

Pedro Heizereditor in chief

3June 2014 • 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g

By Pedro HeizerThe World cup sticker album from Panini has been one of fascination for kids and adults alike.in 1998, on the heels of the World cup, my dad bought me my first ever World cup sticker album. Gluing stickers into an album seems elemen-tary, but the excitement one gets when opening a pack and seeing that one card they’ve been missing is hard to duplicate.The addiction is fun especially when you’re a kid. your parents go and buy you the packs. you look over what you get and trade the cards you already have. However, when you’re in your 20s or even 30s, mom and dad aren’t buying your packs anymore and you see these 20 and 30-somethings spending money like water on World cup stickers. i’ve seen people walk out with over 50 packs at one point.you need 640 stickers to complete this summer’s World cup album from Panini. However, since they are sold in packs of 5-7 (depending on where you live), the amount of duplicates increase ev-erytime you buy more stickers. fifa TV made a calculation that states in order to have a complete album, you must have buy 4,505 stickers to ensure a complete album. That’s roughly $643 spent on buying

packs of stickers!When the 2014 World cup album was released, i rushed out to purchase one. and to my disbelief, i walked up to the counter to ask where they were and the cashier looked at me and said they were sold out.

The united states has clearly caught World cup sticker fe-ver. There’s no doubt. This year, many stores and people alike are

doing sticker trading days where they go to a place with their duplicates in hopes of trading for stickers they need to complete

their album.i was still living in Brazil during my first encounter with a Panini sticker

album in 1998. That year, my entire first grade class had an album. We would brag about getting players the others didn’t have, or we would brag about the “shiny-

ees.” during that 1998 school year, we all became professional negotiators. “you want my shiny Brazil crest? Well that will cost you 5 regular stickers.”We would play games with the duplicates we had. one game, in particular, was where we picked the cards from the other person that we needed, and they would do the same. Then, we would place them faced down on the table and we would hit the table in hopes some of the stickers you picked would flip up. if the stickers flipped, you kept them. if they didn’t… well, you didn’t get them.it’s safe to say, i was hooked. The following year, i received the 1999 campeonato Brasileiro serie a sticker album by Panini. i never completed that album, but it’s one of my favorites, as kids in school would do the same thing we did for the World cup one for the Brazilian league one.When i moved to the united states, i was afraid i would never see another Panini sticker album again since soccer wasn’t as big when i moved here. in 2002, i asked my grandmother to send me a World cup album from Brazil. she did and she also sent over hundreds of packets to go with the book. again, i never completed that album. The 2006 edition of the World cup sticker album is missing from my collection, as i never got a chance to get one. But then in 2010, i was at a Walgreens pharmacy and noticed the 2010 version of the sticker album. i simply had to have it.opening those packets in 2010 reminded me of 1998 when my dad and i would go to the newsstands and buy a few packets, and then rush home to open them up in hopes of getting the stickers i needed to complete the collection.Personally, i love the sticker album hobby. i think it’s an european and south american thing though as most of my american soccer friends here have no idea what they are and always question why a grown man would be so happy to buy stickers for a book. They’ll learn soon enough!

sticker feverWElcoME

4 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g • June 2014

Wi t h o u t l a n d o n d o n o v a n , t h e u n i t e d s t a t e s f l i p s o v e r a n e w P a g elife after landon

By Pedro Heizeras Jürgen klinsmann made his final seven cuts for Bra-zil, one name caused shockwaves around not only the united states but also the world.landon donovan, who is the all-time u.s. Men’s national Team leader in goals (57) and assists (58), was cut by klinsmann on May 22nd alongside Terrence Boyd, Joe corona, Maurice edu, Brad evans, clarence Goodson and Michael Parkhurst.although most are crucifying klinsmann and his decision of not including donovan, the 2010 World cup hero, to his final 23-player roster, the omission of one of u.s. soccer’s most decorated athletes was the right decision.There is no denying everything donovan has done for soccer in the united states, however, it was time for a change.in a recent conference call with reporters, klinsmann said that “there’s no doubt what he did for u.s. soccer” with the national team and with los angeles and san Jose in winning five titles in Major league soccer.“it’s amazing,” klinsmann added. “you give him every compliment he deserves. But soccer is about what you do today and what you hopefully do tomorrow.“We’re not building the group based on the past; we’re building the group based on what we go through togeth-er and what we believe, as of today, is the right decision.”Many belive that donovan simply deserved a spot on the roster because of his history, however, to klinsmann the idea that donovan deserved a ticket to Brazil shows what’s wrong with the way americans look at sports. “This always happens in america,” said klinsmann to sam Borden of The new york Times. “koby Bryant, for example - why does he get a two-year contract exten-sion for $50 million? Because of what he is going to do in the next two years for the lakers? of course not. of course not. He get it because of what he has done be-fore. it makes no sense. Why d you pay for what already happened?”donovan was a main part of the national team before he took a sabbatical of about four months after the 2012 season. klinsmann said donovan would have to earn his spot back once he decided to come back and he did just that. klinsmann then restored donovan’s roster spot for the 2013 Gold cup, where donovan excelled.However, his four-month sabbatical must have not won him any friends, how can a player who is at the top of his game just decide to take time off? in many other coun-tries, that would have surely been the end of his interna-tional career.“He came back, and he was playing in Mls, and peo-ple say ‘oh, he’s playing well’ but what does that really mean,” continued klinsmann in the new york Times story. “This is where Mls huts him. He was playing at 70 per-cent, 80 percent, and he was still dominant. That doesn’t help anyone. i watched the games. What was i supposed to say? That he was good? He was not good. not then.

no way.”not only didn’t donovan help his case with the sabbati-cal, but when he told esPn in their inside series that he “can’t train 12 straight days in a row and have 12 great days in a row,” that pretty much sealed his fate.klinsmann wasn’t playing around, u.s. soccer’s most recognizable star had to earn his seat on the plane to Brazil, and he failed.“it was a bit of a surprise when everyone learned he [donovan] wasn’t part of the 23 players selected,” said usMnT forward Jozy altidore. “But at the same time, this is something that happens every day globally. it’s just part of the process, maybe the most difficult one for a manager heading into a World cup. Bottom line, we have our team set, we completely trust our coaching staff and have the utmost confi-dence in them in getting us prepared to do great things in Brazil.”The 1990 World cup champion is like a mad scientist; He makes the unpopular, yet wise, de-cisions that are right for the team.in 2013, klinsmann did not include long-time usMnT captain, carlos Bocanegra to the final stage of World cup qualification, and stripped Bocanegra’s captaincy, handing the reigns over to the younger clint dempsey.Bocanegra was subsequently not a part of the team at the 2013 Gold cup, and since then has not been called.With a four-year contract extension given to klinsmann earlier this year, it looks as if the Ger-man will be around for a while, and with that comes a culture change.The next generation of u.s. soccer seems prom-ising.Gone are players like landon donovan (32), and carlos Bocanegra (34), and in their place are play-ers like deandre yedlin (20), and Julian Green (19).With only six players from the 2010 World cup squad returning, klinsmann has the core group of players such as Tim Howard, Michael Bradley, Jozy altidore, and clint dempsey to gel with the youngsters whose blister-ing speed and youthful skill will be looked at as the dif-ference maker in the Group of death.deMarcus Beasley now becomes the played with most World cup caps on the team with four. look to the 32 year-old defender from liga Mx’s Puebla fc to be one of the veteran leaderships on the team.donovan might be gone, but remember, youth prevails; Most forget that younger players are needed to prove what they can do for a national Team in the long run.if you recall, a 20-year-old san Jose earthquakes mid-fielder looking to make a name for himself in the world’s biggest stage scored the clincher when the united states defeated Mexico by the iconic “dos-a-cero” score line on their way to a quarterfinal run in the 2002 fifa World cup.



captain america

Michael windischmann (1990)defender Mike Windis-chmann had the honor of leading usa to the 1990 World cup in italy, the country’s first appearance in the tournament since 1950. He earned his first cap in 1984 and was in-ducted to the national soc-cer Hall of fame in 2004.

tony Meola (1994) The former long-haired hero and united states Hall of famer cap-tained usa for the 1994 World cup hosted on home turf. Meola made his national team debut in 1988 and retired after earning 100 caps.

tom dooley (1998)The German-american defender made his first international appearance in 1992 and became a regular soon after playing every minute of the 1994 World cup. dooley was named captain for the 1998 World cup in france shortly after John Harkes was dismissed from the team. He ended his international ca-reer with 81 caps and seven goals. He is cur-rently the head coach of the Phillipines.

Claudio reyna (2002, 2006)reyna is the only usa player to have captained his squad in two World cups. He led the us in 2002 and 2006. He announced his retirement from the national team the day after the u.s. was eliminated from the 2006 World cup in Germany. He ended his international career with 111 caps and eight goals.

Carlos bocanegra (2010)Bocanegra led the usa in the 2010 World cup in south af-rica. He earned his first senior cap in 2001 and was a regular by 2003. after an unstable club team situation, Bocanegra has been left off the national roster since 2013 in favor of younger defending options.

Clint dempsey (2014)

clint dempsey will lead the usa in Brazil as a first-time World cup captain. He also captained the squad through the qualifying matches. dempsey made his first World cup appearance in 2006, scoring the team’s only goal in the tournament.

From Michael Windishmann to Clint Dempsey, take a look back at all the iconic playersthat have worn the captain’s armband for the United States in the World Cup.


usa Jerseys through the years explore all the uniforms the united states has ever donned during the World cup. from the infamous denim jersey from the 1994 World cup, to the plain jersey from 1930 in which the united states came in 3rd place, and everything in between here you will find every single jersey the usMnT greats have worn.


Perfect ForFATHER’S DAY

Try a LittleTENDERNESS®

Save 67% on Omaha Steaks

©2014 OCG | 20180 | Omaha Steaks, Inc.

Limit 2 of each selection at these special prices. Your 4 (4 oz.) burgers will ship free per address and must ship with The Favorite Gift (49377). Not valid with other o� ers. Standard S&H will be applied per address. Expires 6/30/14.

PLUS, 4 More

BurgersFREE!

Call 1-800-912-5018 and ask for 49377NHKwww.OmahaSteaks.com/father35

The Favorite Gift

Reg $154.00 | Now Only ... $4999

2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers4 Stu� ed Baked Potatoes4 Caramel Apple Tartlets49377NHK

RUBEN’S BARBER SHOP INC.Family Oriented - 12 Barbers - No Appointment

9973 Glades RoadShadowwood Square Shopping Center

Boca Raton, FL 33434

MEN & CHILDRENAll Types of Haircuts - Razor Shaves8 Barbers on Sundays

(561) 487-2152Monday - Friday 8:30am - 6:45pm

Saturday 8am - 4:45pmSunday 10am - 3:45pm


soccer is here to stay:hoW soccer Will surPass BaseBall in the near futureThe sport of soccer in the united states is now one of the most popular, despite what you may hear or think.soccer is still a long ways behind the “Big 4” in north american sports, but those days may be numbered. according to a recent poll by esPn, soccer is the second most popular sport among americans ages 12-24, outstripping the MlB, nBa, and even col-lege football.now, Major league soccer is still less popular than international soccer, but this trend is also changing. The study says 10 percent of all americans ages 12+ are avid Mls fans, the highest level the league has ever reached, a long way since 2000 when the league

really bottomed out with just 2.8% of americans who were consid-ered avid Mls fans and had the worst attendance numbers in their history, averaging about 13,700 fans per match.“soccer awareness in the united states grew drastically when the new york cosmos brought over players like Pelé and franz Beck-enbauer to play in the united states. But when they left, soccer once again became irrelevant,” says Brazilian soccer star zico. “since that time, a new generation of players has made soccer relevant in the united states once again.”rich luker, the 59-year-old social scientist who took the poll, also discovered that three soccer players — lionel Messi (16th), david Beckham (20th), and real Madrid’s cristiano ronaldo (24th) — rank among the 50 most popular athletes in america.nBa fans will be shocked to know that lionel Messi (16th) ranks ahead of Miami Heat superstar, dwyane Wade.

“i see the same amount of kids playing soccer in united states as i do in england,” says fort lauderdale strikers forward, and england native, Mark anderson. “The difference is that in the united states kids fade away [from soccer] as they get older.”as a kid, soccer is the most popular sport you can play. you inter-act with kids, exercise and have fun. But as you grow older, soccer becomes the sport girls play and so kids in middle and high school fall into peer pressure and decide to stop playing soccer and opt for football instead.for years, football has dominated the scene. let’s be honest, noth-ing can compete with a Homecoming football game. nothing

comes close to being more “manly” than men tackling each other.However, the sporting tectonic plates are shifting. due to america’s cultural diversification, increasingly globalized outlook, and widespread access to the internet, soccer is being benefitted more than the other more traditional american sports.you can easily go on youTube and search for high-lights of the latest european matches, or watch esPn’s sportscenter for highlights of european matches and even Mls.“in the last two years, americans have been exposed to elite soccer on a very regular basis, which has allowed us to appreciate the sport and develop a savvy about it in a way we could not before,” says luker. “Based on the way it is trending, i believe global soccer [in the united states] will soon be four or five times bigger than it is today, and Mls’s fanbase will triple or quadruple.”“soccer is growing and has excelled to levels no one would have imagined in the states,” says anderson.This renaissance of soccer in the united states began in 2010 when the united states Men’s national Team exceeded expectations in the tournament when they tied powerhouse england, a game they were supposed to

lose. By its match versus slovania, interest had risen as the usMnT was robbed of a victory and had to settle for a 2-2 draw. it seemed as if fan support was at an all-time high.in its third group stage match, all sorts of television records were broken.The match versus algeria was the highest-rated and most-watched soccer game in the history of esPn networks with 6,161,000 view-ers. for the first time in the history of the united states, bars filled to standing room only as americans watched landon donovan score the dramatic stoppage time goal to send the usMnT to the round of 16 and their first group stage victory since 1930.

excluding holidays, esPn’s coverage of the u.s.-algeria game ranks as the most-watched weekday morning telecast ever for esPn.


“The 2010 World cup boosted the interest of the common soccer fan to an all-time high,” explained zico. “The world watched as landon donovan single-handily put us soccer back on the map.”since 2010, soccer has taken a change for the better; last year alone, Mls ranked third in attendance behind the nfl and MlB at 18,594 fans per game and in front of leagues like the nBa and the nHl.While the 2013 numbers are off a bit from 2012’s record-high -- that was boosted by a new stadium (Houston’s BBVa compass stadium), a new team (the Montreal impact) and david Beckham’s final season -- they weren’t off by as far as some had feared. With 2013 in the books, the final numbers reveal that more than 6 million people attended Mls games and the league averaged 18,594 fans per game. Those numbers represent a mere 1.1 per-cent decline from 2012, and are still by far the second best totals in league history.in 2012, Mls set new marks for attendance. overall, the league average grew more than five percent, coming in at 18,807. This bettered the 2011 mark of 17,844 by nearly 1,000 fans per game.Mls regular-season attendance in 2012 topped the 6 million mark for the first time ever, with a total of 6,074,729 fans. for the fourth year in a row, the seattle sounders averaged 43,144 fans per game – a league and team record.four other clubs averaged more than 20,000 fans per game, an-other league record. eight clubs averaged more than 19,000 fans, up from five in 2011. Mls also finished seventh in global average attendance.its second division counterpart, the north american soccer league, has also reached attendance highs this past season.regular season attendance for the north american soccer league, the second division of soccer in the united states, increased from 3,779 in 2011 to 3,810 this past year, despite the Montreal impact (who averaged over 11,500 fans) moving to Mls following the conclusion of the 2011 nasl season. The san antonio scorpions led the way this past season as the expansion franchise averaged 9,176 fans per game.despite the growth of soccer in the united states, Mls still does not get the coverage it deserves. However, Major league soc-cer has accomplished great things since its 1996 inaugural season.in 2012 nBc sports signed a three-year deal with Mls to nationally televise 40 matches per year. That isn’t a lot of coverage, but it’s better than nothing.The problem with this deal is, only three regular season Mls matches are televised on nBc. The other 37 regular season matches are televised on nBc sports network, a paid chan-nel not many people have.Then just this year, in a partnership with u.s. soccer, Mls sold their media rights to esPn, fox sports, and univision deportes for an 8-year deal that is worth a combined $720 million, a huge increase from the current revenue of $27 million per year, which shows that major sports networks are beginning to see the value of soccer as a valuable sport in the united states.However, to make soccer more relevant within the united states, Mls needs to have more homegrown players, and

keep these players in the league for their entire careers.“recognition for college soccer needs to grow,” says former chivas usa and fort lauderdale strikers defender scott Gordon. “When you’re a kid, playing soccer in college isn’t as enticing as playing college football or college basketball.”Why is that? Because, the biggest problem with making soccer an attractive option for american college kids is that, unlike most american sports where college athletics provide the best training environment for aspiring professional athletes, competition for spots on professional soccer teams comes from all over the world, and in foreign countries, the best players don’t go to college, they train in professional environments.“There needs to be more incentives for soccer players to stay in the united states and play college soccer,” says Gordon, who played for lynn university in Boca raton before being drafted by fc dal-las.currently, soccer in the united states is like a rocket ship waiting to be launched. almost all the pieces are in place, only thing missing are the fans. This new generation of kids will be the ones to launch soccer into the national eye, and make the sport one of the most popular in years to come.“This new upcoming generation of young people is the key for soccer to succeed in america,” explained zico. “What a player like donovan has done for soccer in the united states is sensational,” added zico, the Brazilian soccer legend that played most of his career for flamengo. “He decided to come to Mls and help grow the sport and hasn’t left since he returned in 2001.”“Twenty-five percent of americans are avid nfl fans first and fore-most, 14.4 percent are basketball fans, and MlB comes third with 13.9 percent,” says luker.soccer’s avid fanbase is 10 percent, which does not sound like much until you realize that 10 percent is about 33 million people.“soccer is definitely growing in popularity in the united states,” says Gordon. “These kids have grown up playing soccer and now wear jerseys of players like Messi, and ronaldo. When i was grow-ing up, we never had that.”


even before Jürgen klinsmann made the shocking decision to leave landon donovan out of the final 23 players that will play in Brazil, this u.s. Men’s national Team was heading to Brazil as one of the least experienced us teams in a very long time.This is usMnT’s first World cup since 1990 where a single center-back has zero World cup experi-ence.However, despite all that, goalkeeper Tim Howard believes this edition of the usMnT is better than the 2010 version that won their group en-route to a loss to Ghana.Howard believes this team will be hungry and has the ability to surprise in Brazil.“This team is younger, but i think we’re slightly better than 2010, only because of that youth, and that inexperience almost helps you.”Gone are usMnT veterans such as carlos Bocanegra, steve cherun-dolo, Jay deMerit, and oguchi onyewu, who have been replaced by younger talent ready to prove themselves. Players like stoke city’s Geoff cameron, los angeles Galaxy’s omar Gonzalez, seattle sounders’ deandre yedlin, and sporting kansas city’s Matt Besler. They will be the ones who will hold the backline in the group of death.despite not having any World cup experience in the centerback posi-tion, Howard believes his defense is strong.

“defensively i think we are pretty rock solid. i don’t know; we’ll have to find out. it’s sink-or-swim time when you get to the World cup. There’s no guess-work. There’s nothing to speculate on.”That is the biggest difference between the 2010 team to the 2014 squad that will try to navigate through one of the toughest groups in the World cup. a group that many are saying the us has no business in escaping, especially now without landon donovan.

The 2010 version of squad may have had more veterans, but this squad is hungry and ready to prove the world wrong, “Guys don’t actually know what to expect, they’re just hungry and ready to go for it,” added Howard.“Veteran leadership is beyond critical to the development of our younger players both on and off the field,” says forward Jozy altidore. “our experiences playing on the world stage and at a World cup is something we hope can translate into a positive influence on the newer faces to the global stage. Hopefully our actions, attitude, and leadership on and off the field can translate into some positive thins in Brazil.”don’t be too critical of the us backline just yet. after all, the u.s. only allowed eight goals in 10 Hexagonal games.

tim howard thinks usmnt youth Wi l l Be a huge fac tor in World cup successyouth Will Prevail

Keep up with US Soccer dur ing the Wor ld Cup atw w w. 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g. co m

Photos by Rosa Cavalcanti

F o l l o w u s @ 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g


World Cup Special

• detailed history

of every World cup

since 1930

• comprehensive

Group Preview

• 5 Pages on all things

united states

Men’s national Team

Keep up with US Soccer dur ing the Wor ld Cup atw w w. 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g. co m


F o l l o w u s @ 9 0 m i n u t e s s t r o n g

12

after fifa’s executive committee met eight

times, italy was chosen as the host nation over sweden. and as the second chapter of the fledgling competition unfolded, italy made history by be-ing the first european country to win the fifa World cup as hosts. The championship was played from May 27 to June 10. The 1934 World cup was on a bigger scale than the tournament four years be-fore, it was the first in which countries had to qualify to take part. it started with 32 nations and after qualification, only 16 participated in the finals tournament. There were eight host cities, in contrast with the first competition which had only one, along with live radio broadcast taking the action to listeners in 12 of the competing countries.

1934

Italy| coutesy of fifa.com

Teams: 16 First place: italy Second place: czechoslovakia Third place: Germany Leading scorer: 4 goals nejedly (cze), schiavio (iTa), conen (Ger) Attendance: 363000 (average 21352)

The first fifa World cup was one of a kind. it took place in Montevideo, the uruguayan capital, from July 13 to July 30. They were selected because the country was celebrat-ing the centenary of its first constitution and also the uru-guay national football Team had won at the 1928 summer olympics. The opening ceremony was full of details that might confuse the modern football fan: four teams arriving together on the same boat, an unfinished stadium, even a one-armed goal-

scorer in the final game. Thirteen teams were chosen by fifa, seven from latin america (uruguay, argentina, Bolivia, Bra-zil, chile, Paraguay and Peru), four from europe (Belgium, france, yu-goslavia and romania) and two from north america (Mexico and united states).

Teams: 13 First place: uruguay Second place: argentina Third place: united states Leading scorer: 8 goals Guillermo stabile (arG) Attendance: 59054 (average 32808) 1930

Uruguay| coutesy of fifa.com

HISTORYWORLD CUP

13

With war clouds gathering over europe, the third fifa World cup took place against a bleak backdrop. Held in france from June 4 to June 19, it was the first time the hosts (france) and the title holders (italy) automatically qualified. The flamboyantly skilful way of play presented by the teams, especially by Brazil, brought joy to the football fans during a 15-days festival, but it was italy, the strongest and consistent side, emerged as worthy winners. The 1938 finals provided the last major sporting event before war broke out the following year. spain was facing a civil War and was not able to participate, while austria’s annexation by Ger-many reduced the number of final-ists from 16 to 15. instead a num-ber of austrian players appeared in the German team. argentina (wanted to host the tournament) and uruguay decided to stay away. yet Brazil travelled to eu-rope for the first time and together with Poland they delivered one of the most exciting of all fifa World

cup games in a first-round.

The forth fifa World cup was held in Brazil from June 24 to July 16, be-ing the first one since 1938. The planned cups in 1942 and 1946 had to be cancelled due to the World War ii. Great surprises were awaiting the competition: Brazil built the plan-et’s biggest football stadium as a breathtaking stage for the World cup which did not have a final tournament, it concluded with a four-team mini-league where the

hope of 200,000 people of consecrating the gigantic Ma-racanã became silent before their neighbor uruguay as they celebrated a second world crown.north america also had a little surprise. The game’s found-ers, england, had arrived unprepared and paid the price in Belo Horizonte where they suffered a 1-0 defeat by the united states.

1950

Uruguay| coutesy of fifa.comHISTORYWORLD CUP

Teams: 13 First place: uruguay Second place: Brazil Third place: sweden Leading Scorer: 9 goals ademir de Menezes (Bra) Attendance: 1045246 (average 47511)

1938


Teams: 15 First place: italy Second place: Hungary Third place: Brazil Leading scorer: 7 goals leonidas da silva (Bra) Attendance: 375700 (average 20872)

14

four years after Maracanã was silent over uruguay’s tri-umph, another surprise marked the finals of the 1954 World cup which was held in switzerland from June 16 to July 04. olympic champion in 1952, Hungary came into the cup with an unofficial title of best team in the world, but Germany ap-peared to end the proud 31-match unbeaten record of Hun-gary in a final forever remembered as the Miracle of Berne.

By that time, the 1954 tourna-ment became the highest-scoring fifa World cup™, with 140 goals in 26 matches at an average of over five per game.

HISTORYWORLD CUP

1954

Germany FR| coutesy of fifa.com

Hosted by sweden from June 8 to June 29, the

sixth World cup marked the only occasion that a World cup staged in europe was not won by a european team. a star was born! The swedish summer pro-vided the perfect set to Brazil’s first fifa World cup trophy in 1958, the same year that a 17-year-old called Pelé announces his pres-ence to football fans all around the globe. With two supreme attacking talents in Pelé and Gar-rincha, Brazil beat sweden 5-2 in the final at the rasunda stadium to become the first team to win on a different conti-nent. The Brazilians were not the only heroes: france forward Just fontaine set a record that stands to this day by scoring 13 times in six matches to help his country claim third place.

1958

Brazil| coutesy of fifa.com

Teams: 16 First Place: Germany fr Second Place: Hungary Third place: austriaLeading scorer: 11 goals sandor kocsis (Hun) Attendance: 768607 (average 29561)

Teams: 16 First place: Brazil Second place: sweden Third place: franceLeading scorer: 13 goals Just fontaine (fra) Attendance: 819810 (average 23423)


HISTORYWORLD CUP

The seventh fifa World cup held in chile from May 30 to June 17 was the stage for a flying high Brazil with Garrincha, the so-called “little Bird”, and according to a french news-paper l’equipe’s he was “the most extraordinary right wing-er football has known”. 57 teams entered the 1962 World cup, qualification process started august 1960, and only 14 teams qualified from this process along with host nation

chile and defending champion Brazil, who successfully defended their second trophy as best team of the world.

1962


england, the country that invented football

was also, the eighth host nation for the fifa World

cup. Held from July 11 to July 30, it was right there on home soil that england reached the top of the world after defeating West Germany in one of the most ex-citing, and controversial, of all fifa World cup finals. Geoff Hurst holds the record for most goals scored in a decision of a World cup with a unique hat-trick on england’s triumph, al-though doubts of the legitimacy of his second strike – which cannoned down off the underside of the crossbar and was adjudged by assistant referee Tofik Bakhramov to have land-ed behind the goalline – remain to this day. The 1966 fifa World cup was the last to be broadcast in black and white.

1966

Teams: 16 First place: Brazil Second place: czechoslovakia Third place: chileLeading scorer: 5 goals drazen Jerkovic (yuG) Attendance: 893172 (average 27911)

Teams: 16 First place: england Second place: Germany fr Third place: PortugalLeading scorer: 9 goals eusébio (Por) Attendance: 1563135 ( average 48847 )

England | coutesy of fifa.com


for the first time ever the fifa World cup was broadcast in color all around the globe and millions of fans had the privilege to watch Brazil deservedly earn their third crown with a glorious spectacle of attacking football. The ninth World cup held in Mexico from May 31 to June 21, was Pele’s final appearance on the soccer world stage. There had been fears before the finals about the conditions which the players would be facing - in-tense heat and high altitude - and these worries were aggravated by the decision to stage the games at midday to suit european tele-vision schedules. Moreover, now two substitutes allowed per team, red and yellow cards were intro-duced to the referees, and an adi-

das ball, the white-and-black checked Telstar.

HISTORYWORLD CUPBrazil| coutesy of fifa.com

1974

from June 13 to July 7 the world had the pleasure of watching a tournament of total football, a showcase for the majestic talents of Johan cruyff and franz Beck-enbauer, leading their respective dutch and West German sides through to a final showdown. The solid-gold statuette that West Germany captain Beckenbauer held aloft, a replacement for the Jules rimet was not the only

innovation of the fifa World cup in Germany, there was a new fifa President the Brazilian João Havelange, who had taken the place of englishman sir stanley rous. Moreover, there was a change of format, a second stage comprising two groups of four replacing the traditional knockout route of quarter-finals and semi-finals.


Teams: 16 First place: Brazil Second place: italy Third place: Germany frLeading scorer: 10 goals Gerd Mueller (Ger) Attendance: 1603975 (average 50124)

Teams: 16 First Place: Germany fr Second Place: netherlands Third place: PolandLeading scorer: 7 goals Grzegorz lato (Pol) Attendance: 1865753 (average 49098)

1970

17

italy became world champions for the third time on spanish soil after defeating West Germany 3-1 in 1982. The festival was held from June 13 to July 11. The 12th fifa World cup was the last to feature a fully leather ball but it broke new ground as the first involving 24 teams rather than 16. it also had a new format, in-corporating three distinct phases:

a first round comprising six groups of four teams, with the top two from each progressing; a second round with four groups of three from which the top team advanced; and then the semi-finals and final.

HISTORYWORLD CUP

1978argentina reached the apex on home soil, stimulated by the goals of Mario kempes and the fervor of their impassioned fans, whose snowstorms of shredded blue and white paper, swirling inside the stadiums in Buenos aires and rosario, offered a defining image. first title, fifth team to be both hosts and champions – after uruguay, italy, england and West Germany. The organization of the 1978 World cup had many flaws, including stadi-ums behind schedule and getting ready just in time for the tour-nament and for this reason the grass recent planted loosened in the players’ feet. This edition of the fifa World cup was also the first one that federations used the manufacturer logo in the jerseys.

Argentina| coutesy of fifa.com

1982


Teams: 16 First place: argentina Second place: netherlands Third place: BrazilLeading scorer: 6 goals Mario kempes (arG) Attendance: 1545791 (average 40678)

Teams: 24 First Place: italy Second Place: Germany fr Third place: PolandLeading scorer: 6 goals Poalo rossi (iTa) Attendance: 2109723 (average 40571)

18

Mexico from May 31 to June 29, became the first nation to host the fifa World for the second time when football’s greatest show returned to the site of Brazil’s 1970 victory, but this time it was argentina who brush off the heat and high altitude to arrive victorious, inspired by their captain diego Maradona who dominated the tournament in a way that only Pele had done before. it was the last fifa World

cup where teams from the same continent were not fully separated from each other in the draw for the first round. under new rules after this tournament, each World cup group had either two or three european teams.

HISTORYWORLD CUP

1986

Argentina| coutesy of fifa.com

1990

West Germany lifted the fifa World cup Trophy

for the third time in 1990 as they avenged their final de-

feat by argentina four years ear-lier, overcoming the holders 1-0 in rome. Their victory was a real tri-umph for franz Beckenbauer, who became only the second man to win the world crown as first a player and then a coach. italy was the second country to host the event twice – the first being Mexico in 1986 – from June 8 to July 8. fifty-six years later from their triumph in 1934 on home soil, they spared no expense in making sure the tournament was a complete success, however, the 1990 World cup is regarded as one of the poorest World cups ever. With a low record of goals-per-game average of just 2.21 – a record that still stands to date – and a then-record 16 red cards were handed out, including the first ever dismissal in a final.. despite all this, at the time it was the most watched World cup in history in non-unique viewers – an estimated 26.69 billion non-unique view-ers – but was bettered by the 1994 and 2002 fifa World cups.


Teams: 24 First place: argentina Second place: Germany fr Third place: franceLeading scorer: 6 goals Gary lineker (enG) Attendance: 2394031 (average 46039)

Teams: 24 First Place: Germany fr Second Place: argentina Third place: italyLeading scorer: 6 goals salvatore schillaci (iTa) Attendance: 2516215 (average 48388)


The home of Jules

rimet, the father of

the fifa World cup,

france finally won the crown for

itself in the summer of 1998,

becoming the seventh nation to

win a World cup. The festival

was from June 10 to July 12 and

for the first time compromised

32 teams, the tournament was

bigger than ever. The 1998 fifa World cup was also the

edition with more goals than any other edition of the tourna-

ment with 171 goals.

HISTORYWORLD CUP

1994The united states was the setting for a hugely successful 15th fifa World cup from June 17 to July 17 which drew record crowds and ended with Brazil celebrating their first world title since 1970. There were plenty of goals – 141 was the high-est total since 1982 – and no shortage of drama. it was a tournament that was also touched by tragedy, colombia defender andres escobar was murdered on his return home having scored an own goal against the us in a group match that confirmed the south americans’ early elimination. The 1994 fifa World cup was the first one to be decided on

penalties. ‘soccer’ in the us has never being as popular as basket-ball, baseball or american football and it came as a surprise to many when the country was granted the honor of hosting the fifa World cup. in choosing the usa, fifa President Joao Havelange was bidding to conquer football’s final frontier and it proved the right de-cision with the event attracting a record total attendance of 3,587,538 spectators.


1998

France| coutesy of fifa.com

Teams: 24 First place: Brazil Second place: italy Third place: swedenLeading scorer: 6 goals oleg salenko (rus) Attendance: 1587538 (average 68991)

Teams: 32 First place: france Second place: Brazil Third place: croatiaLeading scorer: 6 goals davor suker (cro) Attendance: 2785100 (average 43517)


2002on a new continent, for the first time the quarter-finals fea-tured teams from five different federations. The 2002 fifa World cup in korea/Japan reflected a changing football world.Two nations together hosting the first World cup in asia from May 31 to June 30 becomes the stage for Brazil to win the tournament for a record fifth time after beating Germany. The 2002 fifa World cup was the last edition of the tour-nament in which the previous champion had the privilege to automatically be qualified for the World cup, only the host nation from that moment on would not need to go through the qualifica-tion process.

Teams: 32 First Place: Brazil Second Place: Germany Third place: TurkeyLeading scorer: 8 goals ronaldo (Bra) Attendance: 2705197 (average 42268)

HISTORYWORLD CUP


2006

if we could sum up the 2006 fifa World cup in one word would be: teamwork. That is how the title of champion ended up in italian hands. The italian’s quality was en-hanced by an obvious camarade-rie. also, italy defended as well as anyone in fifa World cup history, conceding just two goals – one an own goal, the other a penalty.Germany was the host nation for the second time and the only one prequalified. for the first time in

the history of World cup competition, the title holder of the previous cup had to participate in the qualification process. The 2006 World cup stands as one of the most watched events in television history, garnering an estimated 26.29 bil-lion non-unique viewers. The final attracted an estimated au-dience of 715.1 million people. The 2006 World cup ranks fourth in non-unique viewers, behind the World cup in 1994, 2002, and 1990.


Teams: 32 First place: italy Second place: france Third place: GermanyLeading scorer: 5 goals Miroslav klose (Gre) Attendance: 3359439 (average 52491)


2010“This World cup had a special momentum, linked with a

history of freedom and the history of one man.” Joseph s.

Blatter on nelson Mandela.

This was africa’s first fifa World cup and it will live in the

memory as much for the spirit and the smiles of the host

nation as for the success of a spain team who achieved a

place into the record books as the eighth country to capture

football’s most prized crown: fifa

World cup Trophy.

spain’s concluding triumph in the

magnificent soccer city stadium

brought the curtain down on 31

days of football: 64 games, 599

players, 32 teams,

145 goals.Spain| coutesy of fifa.com

Teams: 32 First Place: spain Second Place: netherlands Third place: GermanyLeading scorer: 5 goals Thomas Mueller (Ger) Attendance: 3178856 (average 49669)

IDENTITY THEFT AFFECTS 10 MILLION+ AMERICANS EACH YEAR

Is Your Identity Protected?It is our promise to provide the most comprehensive identity theft prevention and response products available! Your privacy and protection is our #1 priority!

30-Day FREE Trial PLUS a $25 Store Rebate Gift Card*

PRIVACY PATROL KEY BENEFITS$25,000 Identity Theft Insurance

Identity Recovery Service

Lost Wallet Service

Early Warning System

Security Freeze

Available 24/7

SIGN UP AND START PROTECTING YOURSELF TODAY!

Call 800-903-1185*Please call for complete terms and conditions.

Call Today for Your Free Trial800-903-1185

561-693-6776


Neymar has been doing a great job as Brazil’s number 10, until now – time of writing – he already scored 31 goals. Skillful since very young, the 22 year old has the responsibility of carrying Brazil National Team in their home soil this World Cup. In 2013, he was hotly contested by Brazilian fans, but responded inside the field by being very important in the triumph of the Confederations Cup in 2013 scoring the second goal of the Brazilian victory against Spain and also receiving the Golden Ball Award for best player in the tournament, and the Bronze Boot as the third highest scorer. Even though Neymar is young, the achievements numbers in his career are unbe-lievable, while playing for Santos won almost all trophies inside and outside Brazil leaving only the Club World Cup off that list where he lost to Bar-celona which is now his current club, and where he adapted very well alongside Leonel Messi with 14 goals in the 2013/2014 season and 58 assists. Neymar has shown that he can be the player ev-eryone expects him to be and that pressure does not affect him.

brazilsao Paulo 6/12/2014

brazil

Croatia

Fortaleza 6/17/2014

brazil

Mexico

brasilia 6/12/2014

brazil

Cameroun

WorLd rAnking:9

ALL-TiMe WorLd CuP reCord:67W - 15D - 15L

BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002)

Most international Caps

Cafu (142)

goALkeePerS (3):Júlio césar, Jefferson, Victor

deFenderS (8):dani alves, Maicon, Marcelo, Maxwell, Thiago silva, david luiz, dante, Henrique

MidFieLderS (7) luiz Gustavo, Hernanes, Paulinho, ramires, oscar, fernandinho, Willian

ForWArdS (5):Hulk, neymar, fred, Jô, Bernard

roster:

Most World Cup goals

Ronaldo (15)

key Player: neymar Jr.



One of the best players Croatia has ever produced, talented and skilled, the 28 years old Luka Modric, who cur-rently plays for Real Madrid is our bet for the Croatian National Team in this 2014 World Cup. A versatile player who can play in several positions due to one of his strongest characteristics which is his game vision, allows him to play middle attacker and also a bit fur-ther back. A No10 of speed, that has an amazing dead ball and a power to change the circumstances of the game. He’s a player that can lead the Croa-tian National Team really far not only by his individual skills, but also the ease he has to play and help their mates.

croatiaManaus 6/18/2014 recife 6/12/2014

CamerounMexicocroatia

croatia

WorLd rAnking:16


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:3rd (1998)

sao Paulo 6/12/2014

Brazil

croatia

goALkeePerS (3):stipe Pletikosa, danijel subasic, oliver zelenika

deFenderS (9): igor Bubnjic, Vedran corluka, dejan lovren, danijel Pranjic, Gordon schildenfeld, darijo srna, ivan strinic, domagoj Vida, sime Vrsaljko

MidFieLderS (12): Milan Badelj, Marcelo Brozovic, ivo ilicevic, Ma-teo kovacic, niko kranjcar, ivan Mocinic, luka Modric, Mario Pasalic, ivan Perisic, ivan rakitic, sammir, ognjen Vukojevic

ForWArdS (6):duje cop, eduardo da silva, nikica Jelavic, Ma-rio Mandzukic, ivica olic, ante rebic

roster:

key Player: Luka Modric


Darijo Srna (111)


Davor Suker (6)


MexicoFortaleza 6/17/2014

Brazil

Mexico

recife 6/23/2014

Croatia

Mexico

WorLd rAnking:20


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:6th (1970-1986)

natal 6/13/2014

CameroonMexico

goALkeePerS (3):Guillermo ochoa, Jesús corona, alfredo Tala-vera

deFenderS (8): Paul aguilar, Miguel layún, diego reyes, rafa Márquez, francisco rodríguez, Héctor Moreno, carlos salcido, andrés Guardado

MidFieLderS (7): Juan carlos Medina, José Juan Vázquez, isaac Brizuela, luis Montes, carlos Peña, Marco fa-bián, Héctor Herrera

ForWArdS (5): raúl Jiménez, alan Pulido, Javier Hernández, Giovani dos santos, oribe Peralta

roster:

In a family where his father and grand-father were soccer players, of course with Javier “Chicharito” Hernández could not be different. With the talent running through his veins, Chicharito has con-quered his space in the Mexico squad after being the top scorer in the Primera Division de Mexico with 17 goals. The 25 years old Javier, may not even be the most skilled player of Mexico’s team, but with-out a doubt is a striker and knows very well the way to the back of the net. In the past years, he suffered some injuries that frustrated him but, he still have an impres-sive goal average. With great vision and anticipation, Chicharito is very accurate in his shots and even though he is not a very strong player physically, he exceeds with other qualities and can definitely surprise us in this World Cup.

key Player: Javier hernández

Most international CapsMost World Cup goals

luiz Hernández (4) Claudio Suárez (178)


When it comes to World Cup there is no one with more experience in Cameroon National Team than Samuel Eto’o, that already found the back of the net 42 times in 87 games. With a great pace and an amazing precision to score, Eto’o despite not having 16 years any-more - it was when he made his first debuted in the World Cup and for Cameroon - still gives a hard time to the opposing defense. Team captain, Eto’o is the example and the reference to everyone so that the Cameroon National Team can make a remarkable campaign in this World Cup, which may be his last one as to the parameters of soccer, his age is advanced.

cameroonManaus 6/18/2014 brasilia 6/23/2014

Croatiacameroon

Brazilcameroon

WorLd rAnking:50


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:8th (1990)


Rigobert Song (137)

natal 6/13/2014

cameroonMexico

goALkeePerS (4): charles itandje, Guy n’dy assembe, sammy n’djock, loic feudjou

deFenderS (9): allan nyom, dany nounkeu, cedric djeugoue, aurelien chedjou, nicolas nkoulou, Jean-armel kana-Biyik, Henri Bedimo, Benoit assou-ekotto, Gaetang Bong

MidFieLderS (8): eyong enoh, Jean Makoun, Joel Matip, ste-phane Mbia, landry nguemo, alex song, raoul cedric loe, edgar salli

ForWArdS (7): samuel eto’o, eric choupo Moting, Benjamin Moukandjo, Vincent aboubakar, achille Webo, Mohamadou idrissou, fabrice olinga

roster:


Roger Milla (5)

key Player: Samuel eto’o


Are You Still Paying Too Much For Your Medications?You can save up to 75% when you fill your prescriptions at our

Canadian and International Pharmacy Service.

Call Toll-free: 1-800-914-1753

Please note that we do not carry controlled substances and a valid prescription is required for all prescription medication orders.

Celecoxib$62.00

CelebrexTM $568.87

compared to

Our Price

Typical US brand price (20mg x 100)

*Generic equivalent of CelebrexTM Generic price (20mg x 100) Manufactured by

Generics Manufacturers

Call the number below and save an additional $10 plus get free shipping on your �rst prescription order with Canada Drug Center. Expires June 30, 2014. O�er is valid for prescription orders only and can not be used in conjunction with any other o�ers. Valid for new customers only. One time use per household.

Get An Extra $10 O� & FreeShipping On Your 1st Order!

Order Now! Call Toll-Free: 1-800-914-1753Use code 10FREE to receive this special o�er.

Call Now:1-800-914-1753

MATH / COMPUTER TUTORMath

Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus,FCAT, SAT, ACT, GMAT

ComputersMicrosoft tools, Database,Programming, Web Design

All Grades through College; Certified & Experienced Call Taly Cotler at 561-703-2146


Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?

Take the first easy step: Call:(800)712-1816

Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?Is Credit Card Debt driving you batty?

Lower your monthly payments

Reduce or eliminate interest rates

Pay off your debt faster

FREE Confidential Counseling

Let Consolidated Credit Help You:


A player who often lives in the shadow of his club mates but when it comes to Spain, Iniesta is without a doubt undeniable. He was the guy responsible for the goal that gave the title of the 2010 World Cup to Spain and also won the “Best Man of the Match” award. His dribbling, passing and vision are his dif-ferentials; he plays for the team and is not individualistic player. If he brings to Brazil the good soccer he has been showing in Barcelona, Spain is not only going to come to defend its title but it will also be one of the fa-vorite nations to win the 2014 World Cup Trophy.

spainrio de Janeiro 6/18/2014

Chile

curitiba 6/23/2014

Australiaspain

spain


Iker Casillas (153)

salvador 6/13/2014

spain

netherlands

goALkeePerS (3): iker casillas, Pepe reina, david de Gea

deFenderS (9): Juanfran, cesar azpilicueta, Jordi alba, sergio ramos, Gerard Pique, raul albiol, Javi Martinez, alberto Moreno, dani carvajal

MidFieLderS (12): sergio Busquets, xabi alonso, xavi, koke, Thiago alcantara, Jesus navas, david silva, andres ini-esta, santi cazorla, ander iturraspe, Juan Mata, cesc fabregas

ForWArdS (6): Pedro rodriguez, alvaro negredo, diego costa, david Villa, fernando Torres, fernando llorente

roster:

WorLd rAnking:1


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (2010)


david Villa (8)

key Player: Andrés iniesta


Capable of destroying any oppos-ing defense, Arjen Robben is pure talent. The 2014 World Cup will serve as redemption for Robben that missed the kick in the final of the 2010 World Cup giving the title to the Spanish National Team. Rob-ben and all his mates are betting on his ability to bring down the defense and get to the goal line with a lot of skill to perform a perfect cross. In the past couple of years his soccer grew and improved, and Robben as a player learned to be less selfish and to play with his mates. Creative and fast, Arjen Robben is always a threat and a player to keep an eye.

netherlands

salvador 6/13/2014

Spainnetherlands

Porto alegre 6/18/2014 sao Paulo 6/23/2014

Chile

Australia

netherlands

netherlands

WorLd rAnking:15


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:2nd (1974, 1978, 2010)


Edwin Van Der Sar (130)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):Jasper cillessen, Michel Vorm, Tim krul, Jeroen zoet

deFenderS (10): Paul Verhaegh, Patrick van aanholt, daryl Jan-maat, Joel Veltman, stefan de Vrij, ron Vlaar, Bruno Martins indi, karim rekik, Terence kon-golo, daley Blind

MidFieLderS (8): leroy fer, nigel de Jong, Jordy clasie, Jona-than de Guzman, Georginio Wijnaldum, Wesley sneijder, rafael van der Vaart, Tonny Vilhena

ForWArdS (8): Quincy Promes, arjen robben, Jean-Paul Boe-tius, robin van Persie, klaas-Jan Huntelaar, dirk kuyt, Jeremain lens, Memphis depay


Johnny rep (7)

key Player: Arjen robben


chilerio de Janeiro 6/18/2014

Spainsao Paulo 6/23/2014

netherlandschile chile

WorLd rAnking:14



key Player: Alexis Sánchez

cuiaba 6/13/2014

chile

Australia

goALkeePerS (4): claudio Bravo, Johnny Her-rera, cristopher Toselli, Paulo Garcés

deFenderS (8): Gary Medel, Gonzalo Jara, Marcos González, enzo andía, José rojas, eugen-io Mena, Mauricio isla, Miiko albornoz

MidFieLderS (12): Jorge Valdivia, felipe Gutiér-rez, rodrigo Millar, José Pedro fuenzalida, Pablo Hernández, Matías fernández, francisco silva, ar-turo Vidal, charles aránguiz, Marcelo díaz, carlos carmona, Jean Beausejour

ForWArdS (6): alexis sánchez, esteban Pare-des, eduardo Vargas, Gustavo canales, Mauricio Pinilla, fabián orellana

roster:

With 4 goals in the qualifier process for the 2014 World Cup, Alexis Sanchez is one of the star players of the Chile National Team. With plenty of technical quality, he is a player who performs much better in the penalty area than in the box, but when needed he is always at the right time in the right moment to leave his mark. Already found the back of the net 21 times in the 2013/2014 season with Bar-celona. We can say that his style is tricky, fast and strong and that in this World Cup he will deserve our attention.

Most international Caps Most World Cup goals

Leonel Sánchez (84) leonel sánchez (4)


Tim Cahill is the reference man in Australia attack. With 34 years, Cahill is not as fast as he used to be but his aerial abilities still flawless, and with enough space he can break into any opposing defense. Due to his age, the 2014 World Cup may be the last one that the Austra-lian player participates, which makes us believe that his mo-tivation to increase even more the number of goals for the Australian National Team will be huge. Crucial on important games, gunner and example, this is the brilliant Tim Cahill leading Australia in another World Cup.

australiacuiaba 6/13/2014 Porto alegre 6/18/2014 curitiba 6/23/2014

australia netherlands

Chile

Spain

australia australia

WorLd rAnking:59



Most international CapsMark Schwarzer (109)

goALkeePerS (4): Mark Birighitti, eugene Galekovic, Mitch langer-ak, Mat ryan

deFenderS (9): Josh Brillante, Jason davison, ivan franjic, curtis Good, ryan McGowan, Matthew spiranovic, alex Wilkinson, luke Wilkshire, Bailey Wright

MidFieLderS (12): oliver Bozanic, Mark Bresciano, Ben Halloran, James Holland, Mile Jedinak, Massimo luongo, Matt Mckay, Mark Milligan, Tommy oar, Tom rogic, adam sarota, dario Vidosic

ForWArdS (5): Tim cahill, Josh kennedy, Mathew leckie, adam Taggart, James Troisi

roster:

key Player: Tim Cahill


erich Probst (6)

Follow us @90minutesstrong

for US Soccer news


He is a versatile player; he’s able to switch from either a left to a right side position as well as a cen-ter, young talent, he is an extreme-ly balanced player. He is fast and strong, his dribbling is trick and he is always very precise with accurate passes. Rodriguez was considered to be worth around 45 million eu-ros due to his potential at age 20 – now he is 22 – but sometimes he is overshadowed in soccer media because of other talented figures, within his age and generation such as Eden Hazard, Mario Gotze, and Neymar. The 2014 World Cup will be the perfect set for James Rodrí-guez show his talents to the world.

colombiacuritiba 6/24/2014

Japan

colombia

WorLd rAnking:4




Carlos Valderrama (111 )

roster:goALkeePerS (3):david ospina, faryd Mondragón, camilo Var-gas

deFenderS (9):Mario yepes, cristian zapata, Pablo armero, camilo zúñiga, aquivaldo Mosquera, santiago arias, luis amaranto Perea, eder Álvarez, Bal-antacarlos Valdés

MidFieLderS (11):fredy Guarín, Juan cuadrado, James rodrí-guez, abel aguilar, Juan fernando Quintero, carlos sánchez, Macnelly Torres, aldo leao ramírez, edwin Valencia, alexander Mejía, elkin soto

ForWArdS (7):radamel falcao, Victor ibarbo, luis fernando Muriel, Jackson Martínez, carlos Bacca, adrián ramos, Teofilo Gutiérrez

key Player: James rodríguez

belo horizonte 6/14/2014

colombiagreece

brasilia 6/19/2014

ivory Coast

colombia


Bernardo redín (2)


Greece’s main striker, Mitroglou played a major role in their qualification for the 2014 World Cup Finals, with his three goals over two legs helping to see off Roma-nia 4-2 in the Play-Offs. He is a strong and skilful forward, efficient and also a bit creative and when he gets the ball in dangerous areas he knows exactly what to do. He is just what Greece needed alongside with the captain Giorgos Karagounis, two brilliant players that are ready to do a stunning tournament in Brazil.

greecenatal 6/19/2014 sao Paulo 6/23/2014

Japangreece

greece

ivory Coast

WorLd rAnking:10




Giorgos Karagounis (132)

key Players: konstantinos Mitroglou

roster:goALkeePerS (5):alexandros Tzorvas, Michalis sifakis, orestis karnezis, Panaglotis Glykos, stefanos kapino

deFenderS (9):avraam Papadopoulos, dimitris siovas, kostas Manolas, Giannis Maniatis, Jose Holebas, sokratis Papastathopoulos, Giorgios Tzavellas, loukas Vyntra, Vasilis Torosidis

MidFieLderS (10):Alexandros Tziolis, Andreas Samaris, Kostas Katsouranis, Giorgos Karagounis, Panagiotis Tachtsidis, Sotiris Ninis, Ioannis Fetfatzidis, Kostas Fortounis, Lazaros Christodoulopoulos, Panagiotis Kone

ForWArdS (5):Dimitris Papadopoulos, Dimitris SalpingidisGiorgios Samaras, Konstantinos Mitroglou, Theofanis Gekas


Colombiagreece


dimitris salpingidis (1)


The Ivory Coast National Team has the best players in Africa, and Yaya Touré can be considered the most complete player of all. Filled with skills like good position, versatility and a great kick transformed Touré in a spectacular player and a real danger to opposing teams. Even as a defensive midfielder, Touré is not slouch when it is necessary to assume a more offensive position, his aerial game is not the best but with the ball at his feet is capable of reaching long shots that gives a lot of work to opponent’s goalkeep-ers. Yaya Touré along with captain Drogba, are two very important parts to a good campaign in Brazil.

ivory coastbrasilia 6/19/2014

ColombiaFortaleza 6/24/2014

greece

ivory coast ivory coast

WorLd rAnking:21




Didier Drogba (118)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):copa Barry, Gbohouo sylvain, Badra ali, sayouba Mandé

deFenderS (9):kolo Touré, Bamba souleyman, Jean daniel akpa akpro, arthur Boka, serge aurier, Brice dja djédjé, didier zokora, Benjamin angoua Brou, ousman Vieira

MidFieLderS (8):cheick Tioté, yaya Touré, romaric, Max-alain Gradel, ismaël diomande, didier ya konan, con-stant djakpa, Geoffroy serey die

ForWArdS (7):Wilfried Bony, Didier Drogba, Gervinho, Giovanni Sio, Seydou Doumbia, Lacina Traoré, Salomon Kalou

key Player: Yaya Touré

recife 6/14/2014

ivory coastJapan


aruna dindane (2)


Very fast player, Keisuke Honda is one of the columns in which Ja-pan National Team is built upon. He is a great attacking option; he can link and start attacks, play the final ball and score himself. His vision and creativity, ball control and discipline are some of the qualities he shows inside the field. Even though he missed most of the qualification games and also some friendly games due to injury, he made just in time to score the goal that gave Japan their place at the tournament. He will always be the guy that all his teammates can look up to when a strategy is needed. His opponents need to keep an eye on him.

Japancuritiba 6/24/2014

Colombia

Japan

WorLd rAnking:47




Yasuhito Endo (141)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):eiji kawashima, shusaku nishikawa, shu-ichi Gonda

deFenderS (8):Masato Morishige, yasuyuki konno, yuto nagatomo, Maya yoshida, Masahiko ino-ha, atsuto uchida, Hiroki sakai, Gotoku sakai

MidFieLderS (9):yasuhito endo, keisuke Honda, shinji kagawa, Makoto Hasebe, Hiroshi kiyo-take, Hotaru yamaguchi, Toshihiro aoya-ma, Manabu saito, yoichiro kakitani

ForWArdS (3):shinji okazaki, yuya osako, yoshito oku-bo

key Player: keisoke honda

recife 6/14/2014

Japan

ivory Coastnatal 6/19/2014

greece

Japan


keisuke Honda (2)


Luis Suárez is a versatile player that can change the course of the game at a glance. He likes to attack from different positions; he is full of running, a threat from long distance, with an exuberant aerial ability or in the box, tech-nically excellent. He can definitely play anywhere. If motivated, Suárez’s will-ingness to chase every ball and give his best should make up for Uruguay’s distinct lack of attacking talent in midfield and help them go really far into the World Cup.

uruguayFortaleza 6/14/2014

uruguay

Costa rica

sao Paulo 6/19/2014

england

natal 6/24/2014

italyuruguay

uruguay

WorLd rAnking:5


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (1930-1950)


Diego Forlán (108)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):fernando Muslera, Martín silva, rodrigo Mu-ñoz

deFenderS (8): diego lugano, diego Godín, José María Gi-ménez, Martín cáceres, Maximiliano Pereira, Jorge fucile, sebastián coates, alejandro silva

MidFieLderS (9):arévalo ríos, Walter Gargano, diego Pérez, sebastián eguren, Álvaro González, Álvaro Pereira, cristian rodríguez, Gastón ramírez, nicolás lodeiro

ForWArdS (5):edinson cavani, luis suárez, diego forlán, abel Hernández, christian stuani

key Player: Luis Suárez


Óscar Miguéz (8)


The 2014 FIFA World Cup will serve to Bryan Ruiz skirt from anonymity. Everyone will be able to watch a creative left-foot player, classic dribbler who can influence the game with his abilities. He is captain of Costa Rica National Team and surely deserves all eyes on him through the tournament, which properly motivated can lead Costa Rica to great success.

costa ricaFortaleza 6/14/2014

uruguay

costa rica

recife 6/20/2014 belo horizonte 6/24/2014

italy

englandcosta rica

costa rica

WorLd rAnking:34




Walter Centeno (137)

key Player: Bryan ruiz

roster:goalkeepers (4):keilor navas, Patrick Pemberton, daniel cam-bronero, esteban alvarado

defenders (10):Johnny acosta, Giancarlo González, Michael umaña, oscar duarte, Waylon francis, Heiner Mora, Junior díaz, chrisitan Gamboa, roy Mill-er, kendall Watson

Midfielders (10):celso Borges, christián Bolaños, esteban Gra-nados, Michael Barrantes, yeltsin Tejeda, diego calvo, José Miguel cubero, carlos Hernández, ariel rodríguez, Hansell arauz

Forwards (6):Álvaro saborío, Bryan ruiz, Joel campbell, ran-dall Brenes, Marco ureña, Jairo arrieta


rónald Gómez (3)


Without fear of getting it wrong, we can surely say that Wayne Rooney is the best Eng-lish player of his generation. The England’s talisman has been on the spotlight for a long time and he has no in-tention of leaving it. Rooney is the mixture of passion and abilities in one; he is also an inspiration and example to all England, country and national team. On the ball, he is a very strong and powerful player, perfect shoot from distance and it is always giving himself and his best for the team. We believe he will lead England in Brazil to great successes.

EnglandManaus 6/14/2014 sao Paulo 6/19/2014

uruguaybelo horizonte 6/24/2014

Costa ricaEnglanditaly England England

WorLd rAnking:11




Peter Shilton (125)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Joe Hart, Ben foster, fraser forster

deFenderS (7):leighton Baines, Gary cahill, Phil Jagielka, Glen Johnson, Phil Jones, luke shaw, chris smalling

MidFieLderS (9):ross Barkley, steven Gerrard, adam lallana, Jordan Henderson, frank lampard, James Mil-ner, alex oxlade-chamberlain, raheem ster-ling, Jack Wilshere

ForWArdS (4):rickie lambert, Wayne rooney, daniel sturridge, daniel Welbeck

STANDBY LIST (7):GK John Ruddy, DEF Jon Flanagan, DEF John Stones, MID Michael Carrick, MID Tom Cleverly, FWD Andy Carroll, FWD Jermain Defoe

key Player: Wayne rooney


Gary lineker (10)


For many years, Andrea Pirlo has been one of the best midfielders that the soccer world has ever seen, even now that he is not in his glorious days he is still ca-pable to change a game with a single pass. Italy National Team still dependent on him to cre-ate the plays and lead the team, no wonder that he is Italy’s key player since his debut in 2002. With many abilities, Pirlo is one of the most accurate passers in the game; he is also a free-kick specialist, he is clever and calm and has an incredible vision. Brazil will probably be his last major event destination; Andrea Pirlo is already 35 years old.

italyManaus 6/14/2014 recife 6/20/2014 natal 6/24/2014

italy Costa rica

englanduruguay

italy italy

WorLd rAnking:9


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Gianluigi Buffon, Mattia Perin, salvatore sirigu

deFenderS (10):ignazio abate, andrea Barzagli, leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio chiellini, Matteo darmian, Mattia de sciglio, christian Maggio, Gabriel Paletta, Manuel Pasqual, andrea ranocchia

MidFieLderS (10):alberto aquilani, antonio candreva, daniele de rossi, claudio Marchisio, riccardo Mon-tolivo, Thiago Motta, Marco Parolo, andrea Pirlo, romulo, Marco Verratti

ForWArdS (7):Mario Balotelli, antonio cassano, alessio cerci, Mattia destro, ciro immobile, lorenzo insigne, Giuseppe rossi

key Player: Andrea Pirlo

Most international CapsMost World Cup goals

roberto Baggio (9) Gianluigi Buffon (139 )


FrancePorto alegre 6/15/2014 salvador 6/20/2014

Switerlandrio de Janeiro 6/25/2014

ecuadorFrance

honduras France France

WorLd rAnking:16




Lilian Thuram(142 )

key Player: Paul Pogba


Just fonteine (13)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Mickael landreau, Hugo lloris, steve Man-danda

deFenderS (8):Mathieu debuchy, lucas digne, Patrice evra, laurent koscielny, eliaquim Mangala, Bacary sagna, Mamadou sakho, raphael Varane

MidFieLderS (7):yohan cabaye, clement Grenier, Blaise Matuidi, rio Mavuba, Paul Pogba, Moussa sissoko, Mathieu Valbuena

ForWArdS (5):karim Benzema, olivier Giroud, antoine Griezmann, loic remy, franck ribery

a young central midfielder from Juventus, Pogba’s skill set reminds many of claude Make-lele and Patrick Vieira rolled into one. He was awarded the player of the tournament at last summer’s u-20 World cup which france won.


WorLd rAnking:32



key Player: emilio izaguirre


Amado Guevara (138 )

honduras

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Noel Valladares, Donis Escober, Luis López

deFenderS (8):Arnold Peralta, Bryan Beckeles, Maynor Figueroa, Víctor Bernárdez, Juan Pab-lo Montes, Emilio Izaguirre, Osman Chávez, Juan Carlos García

MidFieLderS (8):Jorge Claros, Luis Garrido, Boniek García, Andy Najar, Roger Espinoza, Marvin Chávez, Wilson Palacios, Mario Martínez

ForWArdS (4):Rony Martínez, Jerry Bengtson, Jerry Pa-lacios, Carlo Costly

6/14/2014

honduras

FrancePorto alegre curitiba 6/20/2014

ecuadorhonduras

Manaus 6/24/2014

Switerland

honduras


antonio laing (picture), Héctor zelaya (1)

stout in defense and known for his leadership, he will need to stand tall for Honduras. a highly decorated veteran of the scottish league he has been honored as the Player of the year in scotland.


switerlandbrasilia 6/15/2014

switerland

ecuador

salvador 6/20/2014

France

Manaus 6/25/2014

hondurasswiterland

switerland

WorLd rAnking:8



roster:goALkeePerS (3):diego Benaglio, yann sommer, roman Buerki

deFenderS (8):Johan djourou, Michael lang, stephan lichtsteiner, ricardo rodriguez, fabian schaer, Philippe senderos, steve von Bergen, reto ziegler

MidFieLderS (8):Tranquillo Barnetta, Valon Behrami, Blerim dzemaili, Gelson fernandes, Gokhan inler, xherdan shaqiri, Valentin stocker, Granit xhaka

ForWArdS (4):Josip drmic, Mario Gavranovic, Haris seferovic, admir Mehmedi

key Player:Xhardan Shaqiri

Most international CapsHeinz Hermann (117)

Most World Cup goalsJosef Hugi (6)

The 22 year-old fc Bayern midfielder has featured regu-larly in Pep Guardiola’s dou-ble winning side in Bavaria. a box to box midfielder much of the swiss play will run right through shaqiri whose abil-ity to control the tempo of a match in midfield is his greatest trait.


Ecuadorbrasilia 6/15/2014

Switerland

Ecuador

curitiba 6/20/2014 rio de Janeiro 6/25/2014

hondurasFranceEcuador

Ecuador

WorLd rAnking:28




Iván Hurtado (167)

key Player:Antonio Valencia

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Máximo Banguera, adrián Bone, alexan-der domínguez

deFenderS (8):Gabriel achilier, Walter ayoví, oscar Bagüí, frickson erazo, Jorge Guagua, John narváez, Juan carlos Paredes, cris-tian ramírez

MidFieLderS (11):Michael arroyo, segundo castillo, carlos Gruezo, renato ibarra, fidel Martínez, Édison Méndez, oswaldo Minda, chris-tian noboa, Pedro Quiñónez, luis sari-tama, antonio Valencia

ForWArdS (8):Jaime ayoví, felipe caicedo, Ángel Mena, Jefferson Montero, cristian Penilla, Joao rojas enner Valencia, armando Wila


agustin delgado (3)

The Manchester united man is adept at crossing and a men-ace down the flanks. He also is a threat to shoot and score from distance.

Imagine The Difference You Can Make

1-800-951-6998

DONATE YOUR CAR1-800-951-6998

FREE TOWINGTAX DEDUCTIBLE

YOUR CAR

Ask About A FREE 3 Day Vacation Voucher To Over

20 Destinations!!!

Help Prevent BlindnessGet A Vision Screening Annually


argentinario de Janeiro 6/15/2014

argentinaBosna i hercegovina


iran

Porto alegre 6/25/2014

nigeriaargentinaargentina

WorLd rAnking:6


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (1978-1986)


Javier Zonetti (145)

key Player: Lionel Messi


Gabriel Batistuta (10)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):sergio romero, Mariano andújar, agustín orión

deFenderS (10):ezequiel Garay, federico fernández, Pablo zabaleta, Marcos rojo, José María Basanta, Hugo campagnaro, nicolás otamendi, Martín demichelis, Gabriel Mercado, lisandro lópez

MidFieLderS (11):fernando Gago, lucas Biglia, Javier Mascher-ano, Éver Banega, Ángel di María, Maximiliano rodríguez, ricardo Álvarez, augusto fernández, enzo Pérez, José sosa, fabián rinaudo

ForWArdS (7):sergio agüero, lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuaín, ezequiel lavezzi, rodrigo Palacio, franco di santo

The world’s best player, he missed much of Barca’s season with inju-ries. Messi is capable of magical moments but also a versatile and dependable team player. for the first time in recent memory Barcelona did not win a trophy so the dynamic Messi will be hungry for success this summer in Brazil.

Follow us atwww.90minutesstrong.comfor the lastest NASL news


bosnia-herzegovina

cuiaba 6/21/2014

nigeriasalvador 6/25/2014

iranbosnia-herzegovina

bosnia-herzegovina

WorLd rAnking:25


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:N/A


Zvjezdan Misimovic (79)

key Player: edin dzeko

rio de Janeiro 6/15/2014

Argentia

bosnia-herzegovina

roster:goALkeePerS (3):asmir Begovic, Jasmin fejzic, asmir avdukic

deFenderS (7):emir spahic, Toni sunjic, sead kolasinac, og-njen Vranjes, ervin zukanovic, ermin Bicakcic, Muhamed Besic

MidFieLderS (11):Miralem Pjanic, izet Hajrovic, Mensur Mujdza, Haris Medunjanin, senad lulic, anel Hadzic, Tino susic, sejad salihovic, zvjezdan Misimovic, senijad ibricic, avdija Vrsajevic

ForWArdS (3):Vedad ibisevic, edin dzeko, edin Visca

The Manchester city marksman scores approximately a goal every other game for club and country. Bosnia’s attack is full of quality with dzeko leading the line.


iranbelo horizonte 6/21/2014 salvandor 6/25/2014

ArgentinaBosnia-herzegovinairan

irancuritiba 6/16/2014

nigeria

iran

WorLd rAnking:37




Ali Daei (149)

key Player: Ashkan dejagah


Mehdi Mahdavikia (picture),sohrab

Bakhtiarizadeh, iraj danaeifard, Hamid reza

estili, yahya Golmohammadi & Hassan rowshan (1)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):daniel davari, alireza Haghighi, rahman ahmadi, sousha Makani

deFenderS (11):khosro Heydari, Hossein Mahini, steven Bei-tashour, Pejman Montazeri, Jalal Hosseini, amir-Hossein sadeghi, Mohammad-reza khanzadeh, ahmad alenemeh, Hashem Beikzadeh, ehsan Hajsafi, Mehrdad Pouladi

MidFieLderS (5):Javad nekounam, andranik Teymourian, reza Haghighi, Ghasem Hadadifar, Bakhtiar rahmani

ForWArdS (8):ashkan dejagah, Masoud shojaei, alireza Jahanbakhsh, Mohammad-reza khalatbari, Mehdi sharifi, reza Ghoochannejhad, karim ansarifard, sardar azmoun

after suffering a relegation with ful-ham, dejagah a classy winger will be a fulcrum of the iranian attack. a strong left foot gives dejagah the ability to cut inside and impact play and also shoot from distance.

Follow us atwww.90minutesstrong.com

for the lastest MLS news


nigeriacuiaba 6/21/2014 Porto alegre 6/25/2014

Bosnia-herzegovina Argentinanigeria nigeria

curitiba 6/16/2014

nigeriairan

WorLd rAnking:45



key Player: Victor Moses


Joseph Yobo (94)


daniel amokachi (picture), emmanuel amuneke (2)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):Vincent enyeama, austin ejide, daniel ak-peyi, chigozie agbim

deFenderS (8):elderson echiejile, efe ambrose, Godfrey oboabona, azubuike egwuekwe, ken-neth omeruo, Juwon oshaniwa, Joseph yobo, kunle odunlami

MidFieLderS(10):

John Mikel obi, ramon azeez, ogenyi onazi, Joel obi, nnamdi oduamadi, ejike uzoenyi, nosa igiebor, sunday Mba, reuben Gabriel, Michael Babatunde

ForWArdS (8):

ahmed Musa, shola ameobi, emmanuel emenike, obinna nsofor, Peter odem-wingie, Michael uchebo, Victor Moses, uche nwofor

a key member of nigeria’s cup of af-rican nations’ title winner, the chelsea winger is influential in buildup play and can score goals. Moses can play on ei-ther flank or in the center of the pitch.

Follow us @90minutesstrong

for USL PRO news


germanyrecife 6/26/2014

uSA

germany

salvandor 6/16/2014

germanyPortgual

Fortaleza 6/21/2014

ghana

germany

WorLd rAnking:2


BeST WorLd CuP FiniSh:1st (1954,1974,1990)


Lothar Matthaus (150)

The Bayern Munich man can play anywhere across the frontline and has an incredible knack of scoring hugely important goals at vital times.He was drafted in as a late starter in the last Word Cup, replacing the injured Michael Ballack. And boy did he impress. Having netted in the first group game, Muller scored twice against England in the last 16 and bagged the opener against Argentina in the quarterfinal. The Bayern man missed out on the semifinal after suspension, but went on to score again in the third place playoff against Uruguay.Muller won the Golden Boot and the award for best young player at the tournament. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength for club and country.He plays from the right-hand-side for the national team, but still offers a major goal threat. His ability to link up with the midfield and the front man is excellent, but what sets him apart is his anticipatory instincts and intelligent move-ment. In amongst all of Germany’s delicate manipulators of the ball, his unique, direct playing style is a crucial attacking variant.

key Player: Thomas Müller


Miroslav klose & Gerd Muller (14)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Manuel neuer, roman Weidenfeller, ron-robert zieler

deFenderS (7):Jerome Boateng, erik durm, kevin Grosskreutz, Benedikt Howedes, Mats Hum-mels, Philip lahm, Per Mertesacker

MidFieLderS (12):Julian draxler, Matthias Ginter, Mario Gotze, sami khedira, christoph kramer, Toni kroos, Thomas Muller, Mesut ozil, lukas Podolski, Marco reus, andre schurrle, Bastian schweinsteiger

ForWArd (1):Miroslav klose


Portugalsalvador 6/16/2014

germany

PortgualManaus 6/22/2014

uSA

Portgual

brasilia 6/26/2014

ghana

Portgual

WorLd rAnking:3




Luiz Figo (127)

key Player: Cristiano ronaldo


eusébio (9)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):anthony lopes, Beto, eduardo, rui Patrício

deFenderS (9):andré almeida, Vitorino antunes, Bruno alves, fábio coentrão, João Pereira, luis neto, Pepe, ricardo costa, rolando

MidFieLderS (7):andré Gomes, João Mário, João Moutinho, Miguel Veloso, raul Meireles, rúben amor-im, William carvalho

ForWArdS (10):cristiano ronaldo, Éder, Hélder Postiga, Hugo almeida, ivan cavaleiro, nani, rafa, ricardo Quaresma, silvestre Varela, Vieirinha

Arguably the best player in the world today, CR7 has been nothing short of extraor-dinary over the last few years. At the time of writing, he has amassed an incredible 32 goals in just 22 games for both club and country this season.Proof of the mans genius and importance to Portugal was seen in the second leg of their play off against Sweden. A Ronaldo hattrick pulled his team through when it looked as if they were being threatened with elimination and propelled him to the top of the betting to pick up the 2013 Ballon D’Or.With Ronaldo at his best, Portugal have much to be excited about ahead of their trip to Brazil.


ghanaFortaleza 6/21/2014 brasilia 6/26/2014

germany

ghana

Portgual

ghana

natal 6/16/2014

uSA

ghana

WorLd rAnking:38




Richard Kingson (90)

key Player: kwadwo Asamoah


asamoch Gyan (4)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):adam kwarasey, fatua dauda, stephen ad-ams

deFenderS (8):samuel inkoom, daniel opare, Jonathan Mensah, Harrison afful, Jeff schlupp, John Boye, Jerry akaminko, rashid sumaila

MidFieLderS (11):sulley Muntari, Wakaso Mubarak, rabiu Mo-hammed, Michael essien, emmanuel agy-emang Badu, afriyie acquah, andre ayew, kwadwo asamoah, christian atsu, albert adomah, david Titi accam

ForWArdS (4):Jordan ayew, abdul Majeed Waris, asamoah Gyan, kevin Prince Boateng

A real stalwart in the left-sided berth for Ju-ventus, Asamoah offers the same energetic presence in this Ghana side. His tireless running whether on the flank or in central midfield has been absolutely crucial to the Biaconeri’s unprecedented recent success.His good work typically goes unnoticed and over time he has quietly evolved into the key cog in the Black Stars impressive midfield. The former Udinese man is ca-pable of forming a dynamic middle three with Muntari and Essien, but with Ghana’s plethora of exceptional central midfielders, expect him to line-up on the left-hand side. From this position Ghana’s orthodox 4-5-1 system should allow Asamoah license to burst forward and effect the game in more advanced areas.Such is his energy and endeavor, he’ll have no qualms about working back for the team either.

usaManaus 6/22/2014 recife 6/26/2014

Portugal

usagermanyusa


Cobi Jones (164)

WorLd rAnking:13



natal 6/16/2014

usaghana


landon donovan (5)

Most All-Time goals

landon donovan (57)

90 Minutes Strong’s Projected Starting Xi

2014 United States Men’s National Team


23-Men roster:GoalkeePers (3):

defenders (8):

Midfielders (8):

forWards (4):

Brad Guzan Tim Howard Nick Rimando

DaMarcus Beasley Matt Besler John Brooks Geoff CameronTimmy Chandler

Omar Gonzalez Fabian Johnson DeAndre Yedlin

Kyle Beckerman Alejandro Bedoya Michael Bradley Brad Davis Mix Diskerud

Julian Green Jermaine Jones Graham Zusi

Jozy Altidore Clint Dempsey (c) Aron Johannsson Chris Wondolowski


Personal informationDate of Birth: november 6, 1989 - Hometown: Boca raton, florida - Height: 6’ 1”

Soccer StatsCurrent Club: sunderland - Career Caps: 70

Career Goals: 21 - Career Minutes Played: 4425

Personal informationDate of Birth: March 6, 1979 - Hometown: north Brunswick, new Jersey - Height: 6’ 3”

Soccer StatsCurrent Club: everton - Career Caps: 100


tim howardAt times called the captain of the backline, Tim Howard has the difficult task of being one of the few veterans in the backline that has been to a World Cup. In a Backline which is mostly made up of Major League Soccer talent, Howard himself has already mentioned he feels “pressure” when he thinks about being the one that guides the US backline this summer.

Entering his second World Cup as the undisputed number 1 goalkeeper, Howard will have both hands on the wheel when it comes to the defense.

Gone are the USMNT greats such as Carlos Bocanegra, Steve Cherundolo, Jay DeMerit, and Oguchi On-yewu, who have been replaced by younger talent ready to pove themselves. Players like Stoke

City’s Geoff Cameron, Los Angeles Galaxy’s Omar Gonzalez, and Sporting Kansas City’s Matt Besler will be the ones who will hold the backline in the group of death.

Don’t be too critical of the US backline just yet, after all the US only al-lowed eight goals in 10 Hexagonal games.

“Defensively I think we are pretty rock solid,” Howard explains. “I don’t know; we’ll have to find out. It’s sink-or-swim time when you get to the World

C u p . There’s no guesswork. There’s nothing to speculate on.”H o w e v e r, despite knowing that the team is young and not as experienced as the 2010 squad that

lost in the Round of 16 to Ghana, Howard believes this team will be hungry and has the ability to surprise in Brazil. “This team is younger, but I think we’re slightly better than 2010, only because of that youth, and that inexperience

almost helps you. Guys don’t actually know what to expect, they’re just hungry and ready to go for it.”

usMnt Key Players

At 24 years old, Jozy Altidore is one of the youngest veterans on the team. At the tender age of

20, Altidore was a starter on Bob Bradley’s squad that lost to Ghana in the Round of 16 in the 2010 World Cup.

Coming fresh off a 2013 US Soccer Male Athlete of the Year award, Altidore is one of the biggest weapons the Yanks have in Brazil this summer because of his power. “Jozy is still a very young player and he is going into his learning curve,” explained head coach Jürgen Klinsmann. “We have worked with him now over the last three years, and he’s gone

from a younger player into a more mature player, playing very good games for us and scoring important goals for us.”Klinsmann understands that Altidore, who was only able to score one goal this entire English Premier Season for Sunderland AFC, needs to be at the top of his game if he expects the United

States to move past the group stages. “Jozy is not built yet,” added Klinsmann. “Jozy has not reached his potential yet. Our job, as coaches, is to help him reach his highest potential.

I think the next two months will be a big part of that next learning curve for Jozy Altidore. I’ve always said that he has upside; he hasn’t shown it yet in different places maybe. I think we saw last summer a big part of that upside in the World Cup Qualifiers and in some friendlies as well.”

Will Americans witness the growth of Jozy Altidore this summer into one of the finest US Strikers to ever play the game? Only time will tell.

Jozy altidore“I think the next two months will be a big part of that next

learning curve for Jozy Altidore.“


clint dempseyOh captain, my captain!

Dempsey has simply been sensational on the pitch for Seattle this entire season and is has everyone who follows US Soccer wondering if the 2004 MLS Rookie of the Year is back to top form.

After signing with Seattle in 2013 Dempsey had a very slow, and rather disappointing 2013 campaign in which we saw the USMNT captain find the back of the net only once in nine MLS games, no assists,

and a Western Conference Semifinals exit thanks to Portland Timbers FC.Many started questioning Dempsey’s abilities; not only had he been underachieving in Seattle, he

also stopped performing while playing for the national team. After a disappointing loss to Ukraine in March, many began to debate Dempsey’s interest and passion for the game, as well as his captain-

ship for the upcoming World Cup.However, despite the negativity, Dempsey continues to prove everyone wrong.

Looks like Dempsey’s 2014 MLS Season is shaping up to be one of his best to date. Before leaving for International Team duty, the USMNT Captain already had eight goals (which is

good enough for 3rd in the league), three assists, and two Player of the Week honors. Can Deuce make his success in MLS translate to International success?

Many were not sure about Bradley four years ago when his father called him to the World Cup roster. At only 22, Bradley was un-tested and many were not sure he was the midfielder

the United States needed. What a difference four years make.At 26, Bradley has played for EPL-side Aston Villa, two clubs in Serie A in Italy and is back home where it all started in MLS.

Bradley, who was one of five USMNT players to play every minute in the 2010 World Cup, commonly known as General Bradley, is the man in whom Jurgen Klinsmann has built his midfield around, and is counting on his veteran leadership to lead the midfield past the group stage and deep into the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.“I embrace it, absolutely,” said Bradley. “To be a player that is counted on by his coaches and his teammates to make a difference, to make plays, to be a leader- the challenge of all that excites me.”He may not be the captain, but when the ball starts rolling on June 16, Bradley will be

one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. As to what’s the biggest difference between 2014 and 2010, Bradley was not shy.“I’m four years older now, I’m more mature,” explained Bradley. “I’m a better player.”

Michael bradley

Personal informationDate of Birth: March 9, 1983 - Hometown: nacogdoches, Texas - Height: 6’ 1”

Soccer StatsCurrent Club: seattle sounders fc - Career Caps: 105


Personal informationDate of Birth: July 31, 1987 - Hometown: Princeton, new Jersey - Height: 6’ 1”

Soccer StatsCurrent Club: Toronto fc - Career Caps: 86


“To be a player that is counted on by his coaches and his teammates to make a

difference, to make plays, to be a leader-the challenge of all that excites me.”


belgiumrio de Janeiro6/17/2014

belgiumAlgeria


russia

sao Paulo 6/26/2014

korea republicbelgium

belgium

WorLd rAnking:12




Jan Ceulemans (96)

We were all witness to the impact Kom-pany’s absence had on his club side in the early days of the Premier League campaign and his influence is just as key for the national team. This was only com-pounded by the manner in which Man-chester City finished the campaign, with some strong performances from Kom-pany hauling them to the title.Not only is the Anderlecht academy graduate a fine defender, he’s a leader of men. His motivational skills, organiza-tion and the manner in which he leads by example will all be crucial qualities in the pressure-cooker atmosphere of a major tournament.Kompany has won trophies and per-formed superbly in many big games and that experience will be vital if his team

are to go long into the tournament. Belgium’s chances will be a whole lot more realistic if he’s at the peak of his powers; a simply irreplaceable presence.

key Player: Vincent kompany


Marc Wilmots (5)

roster:goALkeePerS (4):Thibaut courtois, simon Mignolet, koen casteels, silvio Proto

deFenderS (8):Toby alderweireld, laurent ciman, nicolas lombaerts, Vincent kompany, daniel Van Buyten, anthony Vanden Borre, Thomas Vermaelen, Jan Vertonghen

MidFieLderS (10):

nacer chadli, Moussa dembele, steven defour, kevin de Bryune, Marouane fel-laini, adnan Januzaj, eden Hazard, kevin Mirallas, divock origi, axel Witsel

ForWArdS (2):romelu lukaku, dries Mertens


russiacuiaba 6/17/2014

russia6/22/2014 curitiba 6/26/2014

Belgiumkorea republic

rio de Janeiro

Algeria

russia russia

WorLd rAnking:18




Viktor Onopko (109)

Having regularly played wide on the right-hand-side for the national team, Dzagoev has been deployed in a central attacking midfield position under Ca-pello. It is certainly a much more natural position for the CSKA Moscow man, but it means the creative burden will fall al-most solely on his shoulders in what is an otherwise workmanlike outfit.Dzagoev was nursing an injury ahead of the Christmas period but Russia will be hoping he can get back up to speed with the World Cup on the horizon.He is no longer the raw teenager that so many had high hopes for; he’s 23 years old now. Whilst still young, Dzagoev is one of the most experienced players in this Russian squad now and he has a major role to play in the team. Capello will be expecting big things from him.

key Player: Alan dzagoev

roster:goALkeePerS (3):igor akinfeev, yuri lodygin, sergey ryzhikov

deFenderS (10):alexandr anyukov, aleksei Berezutski, Vasili Berezutski, Vladimir Granat, andrey yesh-chenko, sergei ignashevich, aleksei kozlov, dmitri kombarov, andrei semenov, Georgi schennikov

MidFieLderS (12):Vladimir Bystrov, yuri zhirkov, roman shi-rokov, igor denisov, alan dzagoev, Viktor fayzulin, alexander samedov, oleg shatov, aleksei ionov, yuri Gazinsky, Pavel Mogile-vets, denis Glushakov

ForWArdS (5):artem dzyuba, Maxim kanunnikov, alek-sandr kerzhakov, aleksandr kokorin, Pavel Pogrebnyak


Oleg Salenko (6)


WorLd rAnking:25




Lakhdar Belloumi (101)

Feghouli was eligible to play for France – the county of his birth – and Algeria. But despite represent-ing France twice at U21 level, he opted for the Fennec Foxes after discussions with the Algerian FA in 2011.His influence was immediate, scor-ing the winner on debut in a 2-1 victory over Gambia. And since his bow, he has given the Algerian an added attacking dimension.The Valencia man is capable of playing from the right-hand side or just off the striker and is without doubt the most potent attacking force for this team. His excellent work-rate will be a key attribute too, especially when the Algerians come up against stronger, technically su-perior opponents.

key Player:Sofiane Feghouli

algeriabelo horizonte 6/17/2014 Porto alegre 6/22/2014

korea republiccuritiba 6/26/2014

algeria russia

Belgiumalgeria

algeria

roster:goALkeePerS (4):rais M’bolhi, Mohamed zemmamouche, ezzdine doukha, Mohamed cdric

deFenderS (10):essaid Belkalem, Madjid Bougherra, lyas-sine cadamuro, faouzi Ghoulam, rafik Halliche, nacereddine khoualed, aissa Mandi, Mehdi Mostefa, carl Medjani, djamel Mesbah

MidFieLderS (8):nabil Bentaleb, ryad Boudebouz, yacine Brahimi, adlene Guedioura, amir karaoui, Medhi lacen, saphir Taider, Hassen yebda

ForWArdS (8):rafik djebourabdelmoumen djabou, sofiane feghouli, ryad Mahrez, islam slimani, Hilal soudani, foued kadir, nabil Ghilas


salah assad (2)

@crankuptheheat@crankuptheheat/crankuptheheat


WorLd rAnking:56



The Bayer Leverkusen man is the only member of the team playing Champions League football and the clear star of the team.He adds guile and excellent creativity just behind the front line. A huge chunk of the sides creative responsibility lies with Son and he looks to be getting better and better at Leverkusen following his summer move from Hamburg.

key Player: Son heung Min


Hong Myung-Bo (136)

Korea republic

sao Paolo6/17/2014cuiaba 6/25/2014Porto alegre 6/26/2014

Korea republic Algeria

russiaBelgium

Korea republic Korea republic


ahn Jung-Hwan &Park Ji-sung [picture] (3)

roster:goALkeePerS (3):Jung sung-ryong, kim seung-Gyu, lee Bom-young

deFenderS (8):kim Jin-su, yun suk-young, kim young-Gwon, Hwang seok-Ho, Hong Jeong-Ho, kwak Tae-Hwi, lee yong, kim chang-soo

MidFieLderS (8):ki sung-yeung, Ha dae-sung, Han kook-young, Park Jong-Woo, son Heung-Min, kim Bo-kyung, lee chung-yong, Ji dong-Won

ForWArdS (4):koo Ja-cheol, lee keun-Ho, Park chu-young, kim shin-Wook


*National average annual savings based on data from customers who reported savings by switchingto Esurance between 12/1/11 and 4/30/12.© 2012 Esurance Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved. CA License #0G87829

what if …you could save 28%on car insurancewith esurance? *

Take the guessworkout of saving.

Call 1-800-590-3196 to seehow much you could save.

90 Minutes Strong


For Home Delivery Subscribe Today!

Send me 90 Minutes Strong forOne Year $28.50

NO MORE boring routinesNO MORE waiting to use equipment

NO MORE packed gyms

CONTACT US NOW

to schedule an appointment(561) 362-3234

[email protected] NW Boca Raton Blvd. Suite 705

Boca Raton, FL 33431

THIS GYM IS JUST FOR YOU!with

Strenght trainingFunctional training

Aerobic training

First two sessions are FREEwith no membership or long term

contract.

Private Personal Training Gym

90 Minutes Strong


For Home Delivery Subscribe Today!

Send me 90 Minutes Strong forOne Year $28.50

NEED A BOOST?

CAFÉ ON WHEELSCALL (954) 798-6363

WE DELIVER!

• Workplace Deliveries

• Brand Promotions

• Fundraising

• Events

• PartiesVisit us at

U-Turnespresso.comor Contact us at

[email protected]

@uturnespresso

U-Turn Espresso

90 Minutes Strong | June 2014

Documents

Transcript of 90 Minutes Strong | June 2014