Preview: New York Red Bulls v Real Salt Lake

We're just moments away from kickoff and the teams' lineups look like this:

New York Red Bulls

----------------Angel---------Wolyniec---------------
Van Den Bergh-----Ubiparipovic---------Richards
------------------------Sassano---------------------
Goldthwaite----Jimenez----Mendes-------Leitch
------------------------Cepero----------------------

Real Salt Lake

---------------Movsisyan-----------Mathis-------------------
Johnson------------------Morales----------------Kovalenko
--------------------------Beckerman-------------------------
Russell----------Olave--------------Borchers-------Wingert
--------------------------Rimando----------------------------

Keys to the game:

New York Red Bulls: Juan Pablo Angel is the key to the Red Bull's attack, but he needs a supporting cast in order to outdo Real Salt Lake. If Dane Richards can put forth an effort like he did last week against the Houston Dynamo, then you could expect New York to make it the MLS Cup Final.

Real Salt Lake: Danny Cepero has played like a ten year veteran since becoming the starting goalkeeper for the Red Bulls, however he's still inexperienced and I still believe he's prone to making at least one costly "rookie" (inexperienced) mistake in these playoffs. Real Salt Lake have to test him, especially from distance.

Journeyman Dema Kovalenko could also play a vital role for Real Salt Lake in tonight's match as he will go against left back Kevin Goldwaite. This matchup could be key in deciding who advances to the MLS Final next week.

We're minutes away from kick-off so I'll go with the prediction that the New York Red Bulls upset Real Salt Lake 3-2 in extra time


Who do you think will win tonigh's tilt? What will be the key to the game? Predictions on the scoreline? Share your thoughts below.

Not so fast: Subotic saga continues

If you're an American fan closely keeping tabs on Neven Subotic, then this morning's news that stated that he had declared for the Serbian national team may have left you feeling a little down and out. But U.S. soccer president Sunil Gulati has squashed those reports claiming that Subotic is still undecided.

"We have spoken to Neven's representative and can confirm the story is untrue," Gulati said.

Gulati's words have brought a sigh of relief to many Yanks' fans who we're busy this afternoon expressing their dejection on forums throughout cyber space. So you fans that were so dismal just hours ago can now once again hope that the Borussia Dortmund defender, that net twice today in his team's 4-0 rout of Eintracht Frankfurt, will choose the United States when everything is all said and done.

Here's a lengthy video that shows both of Subotic's goals from today:




Are you jumping for joy now? Back to being optimistic? Or do you still see him going to Serbia eventually? Express your thoughts below.

Subotic selects Serbia

Add Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic to the list of Giuseppe Rossi, Bakary Soumare and Edgar Castillo as American-eligible players who chose to represent another country. Fox Sports is reporting that Subotic has elected to play for the Serbian national team.

The news comes as a surprise as Subotic had claimed earlier this year that he would not declare for a national team in the immediate future as he wanted to concentrate on his club. Yet it appears that the 6-foot, 4-inch defender has finally come to a decision.

Subotic's lack of interest in playing for Bosnia and Herzegovina paired with FIFA's recent ruling that denied the 19-year-old of the opportunity to play for Germany, left him with two options, the United States or Serbia. He's chosen the latter.

His decision comes as an immense blow to American fans as not only were they enamored by his skill-set, but less than a month ago another towering defender, Chicago Fire's 6'4 Bakary Soumare, opted to pass on the United States and play for Mali.

With two top prospects choosing to play for other countries in the past month, can you really blame the fans for their woes? Perhaps a win over Guatemala in next week's World Cup qualifier will suffice to help the fans recover from this hang over.


What do you think of Subotic's decision? Upset? Was it a foregone conclusion? Share your comments below.

Gaven's glorious goal sinks Fire; Crew to the Finals

The Columbus Crew were down 1-0 heading into the first half and the Supporters' Shield winner appeared to be at risk of failing to get to the MLS Final yet again. However, two quick second half strikes killed the dreams of the Chicago Fire and their fans as Columbus earned its first ever trip to next Sunday's championship game.

Near the half hour mark, a pass close to the left sideline took a deflection and Cuauhtemoc Blanco intelligently shielded veteran defender Frankie Hejduk off the ball leaving the U.S. national team defender on the ground and seeking a foul. He didn't get the call as the ball rolled out of bounds for a Columbus throw-in.

Blanco then once again outsmarted the American as he threw the ball in quickly to Justin Mapp who had loads of room on the left flank due to Hejduk being caught off guard and out of position. Mapp put in a well-weighted cross that found the head of Brian McBride. The former Columbus Crew player hit the ball with a trademark header and saw the it sail over goalkeeper Will Hesmer for the 1-0 lead in the 29th minute.

But four minutes into the second half, Columbus would find the break they needed as they notched things up.

Eddie Gaven drew a foul from Gonzalo Segares on the right flank and Columbus was awarded a free kick. Guillermo Barros Schelotto curled a beautiful ball into the penalty area that found the towering Chad Marshall. The MLS defender of the year got away from McBride and adjusted to the ball to head home the equalizer.

Six minutes later, Columbus found the go-ahead goal as a set of headers floated over Chicago Fire defenders before landing to Gaven, who would net from 12 yards out.

Gaven made a diagonal run as he received the headed-pass and controlled the ball with his left foot before slotting it past goalkeeper Jon Busch with his right. The midfielder then ran to fans in the stands and let out his emotions as the Crew supporters embraced him for what turned out to be the eventual game-winning goal.

Columbus now has a date with destiny next Sunday as they've punched their first ever trip to the MLS Cup Final. Who they'll play will be determined this Sunday as the New York Red Bulls travel to Utah to take on Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference Championship.


What did you think of last night's game? Is it the Crew's year? Were you impressed by Gaven's goal? Share your thoughts below.

MLS Rookie of the Year: Sean Franklin

Sean Franklin has been named MLS Rookie of the Year. Franklin, who made his debut on April 3, 2008 against the San Jose Earthquakes, was the lone bright spot on a dreadful Los Angeles Galaxy defense that ranked last in the league.

A natural right back, Franklin was asked to man the center of the defense and although he was out of position, Franklin demonstrated he had all the abilities one looks for in a defender. The 23-year-old played in 27 games, while starting in 26 of them.

This week must've been one of his proudest as not only did his play warrant the rookie accolade over New England's Kheli Dube and Houston's Geoff Cameron, but he also was earned a callup from U.S. national team head coach Bob Bradley for a training camp ahead of next week's World Cup qualifier against Guatemala.

"It has been a big week, a very exciting week for me and for my family," said the Rookie of the Year. "I'm really excited where I'm at right now."

If Franklin can impress in the training camp, as he has all season long, then expect him to earn his first cap next Wednesday.


What do you think of Franklin winning the ROTY award? Do you think he'll make the gameday roster against Guatemala? Think he'll start? Share your comments below.

Morning Scrimmage: Maradona staying put, Ruud out for the season & more

Maradona staying put

There have been rumors surfacing that after 10 days of being the man in charge of Argentina, Diego Maradona might call it quits.

The reason for him potentially leaving his post so prematurely is due to conflict with AFA president Julio Grondona, who has prohibited Maradona from hiring former teammate Oscar Ruggeri as an assistant coach. The reason as to why that is has not been revealed, but it appears to be personal.

"It's my problem," Grondona said. "I don't want to talk about this."

Carlos Bilardo, who was appointed technical secretary by Maradona himself, has come out and claimed that the former legend is staying put.

Bilardo stated: "He won't resign."

"I have spoken to Diego and told him he has to go slowly. There are 500 people he can choose to assist him."

Nistelrooy out 6-9 months

Real Madrid striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy's season has come to a close. Nistelrooy travelled to the United States earlier this week and after examination, it was revealed that his knee injury required surgery. According to a statement released by Madrid, the Dutchman will be out six to nine months depending on his recovery.

Nistelrooy's injury may prove to be costly for coach Bernd Schuster as he has found himself on the hot seat due to recent less-than-stellar performances from Los Galacticos. Rumors have been swirling that Schuster could find himself jobless if Madrid fail to beat Real Valladolid this weekend. Even if they do manage to win, losing the former Holland international for the season is not going to help Schuster's cause.

Beckham's Milan arrival delights Ronaldinho

While L.A. Galaxy fans bemoan the departure of David Beckham to Italy in January, someone at AC Milan is eager for his arrival. That someone is Ronaldinho.

"I am very happy to know that he's coming," Ronaldinho told Setanta Sports News.

The Brazilian star, who has netted five times in nine appearances for Milan, admitted that he's had an admiration for the England international's style of play and he believes that Beckham's arrival will benefit the entire squad.

"He's going to help us a lot and I'm looking forward to helping him be the great player he is as well.

"I always like the way he plays. I always admired him and it's very cool to play with important people. It's always very motivating."

When asked if he would let the Spice Boy take set-pieces, Ronaldinho stated that there would be no issue with him stepping aside for Becks.

"That's not a problem, (although) it could be a problem for the team we're playing against. I hope to learn a lot with David Beckham."


Think Maradona could leave so quickly? Is Grondona being immature about the situation? Do you see Schuster getting the axe before seasons-end? Are you as excited as Ronaldinho for Beckham's move to Milan? Share your thoughts below.

Donovan wins 2008 Honda Award

Though he's training in Germany with Bundesliga giant Bayern Munich, Landon Donovan is still getting recognition here in the United States. The 26-year-old was rewarded as the best American player in 2008 after receiving his record-breaking fifth Honda Player of the Year Award yesterday.

The Los Angeles Galaxy player received 297 points from journalists across the country, ahead of goalkeeper Tim Howard and forward Clint Dempsey who finished with 240 and 176 points respectively. Donovan also captured the Honda Award in 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2007.

Donovan had himself an impressive year by breaking the national team record for goals (currently 37), as well as leading the MLS in scoring this season (20 goals), yet many fans believed that 2008 was Tim Howard's year. The Everton goalkeeper also had himself a solid year for the National team by posting 5 shutouts in 9 games.

Yet Howard showed no hard feelings on losing out on the award and expressed his utmost respect for the United States all-time leading goal scorer.

“Landon is a presence,” Howard said by phone. “When you line up in the tunnel to go onto the field and you see Landon there, it gives you confidence.”

Donovan not only showed his gratitude for the award and the kind words he received, but he also spoke out on his 10-day training stint with Bayern Munich, expressing that he now has the confidence to compete in Europe.

"I'm a different player than I was then, competing for a spot," Donovan said. "While at the time it seemed like everything was against me, the reality was I just wasn't ready yet. Now I know I'm ready and want the chance to prove myself. In my mind, I just want to know if it's possible."


What is your take on Donovan winning his fifth Honda Award? Surprised that he won? Think Howard or Dempsey should've won it? Express your comments below.

Bradley Summons 19 for a 4-day Training Camp

Cory Gibbs is just one of the familiar faces that has been called into a four-day training camp by Bob Bradley. The training camp comes in preparation for next week's World Cup qualifier against Guatemala on Nov. 19 in Commerce City, Colorado. The 19-man roster is filled with domestic based players (with three exceptions) and although some players may indeed make the roster for next week's qualifier, expect the majority of the guys to be sent back to their clubs.

Here's the roster:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Brian Edwards (Toronto FC), Troy Perkins (Valerenga IF), Matt Pickens (out of contract)

DEFENDERS (6): Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Sean Franklin (Los Angeles Galaxy), Cory Gibbs (Colorado Rapids), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Drew Moor (FC Dallas), Michael Parkhurst (New England Revolution)

MIDFIELDERS (5): Colin Clark (Colorado Rapids), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Nick LaBrocca (Colorado Rapids), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids)

FORWARDS (5): Davy Arnaud (Kansas City Wizards), Chad Barrett (Toronto FC), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Kenny Cooper (FC Dallas)

What's my take on this mini-camp? I expect less than half of these guys to make the gameday roster and I, like many fans out there, are surprised by the exclusions of Stuart Holden and Marvell Wynne. However, it is nice to see guys like Cory Gibbs, Kenny Cooper and Conor Casey back in the fold. It seems obvious that once the four days pass, we'll see Bob Bradley fill up the remainder of the squad with the Europe based players, like Freddy Adu and Brad Guzan.


What's your take on this four-day training camp? Who are you excited to see? Who do you think should've gotten a call? Who will make the final roster? Share your thoughts below.

Morning Scrimmage: Donovan with Munich, Buffon out until 2009 & More

Donovan on trial with Bayern Munich

Landon Donovan has pulled a Beckham. Bayern Munich's website reported this morning that the withdrawn striker has flown to Germany and will be on a 10-day trial with the team to keep himself in playing shape.

Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinnsman, who has a home in California, is no stranger to Donovan's skill-set as he pursued the signing of the American during last summer's transfer window. But Donovan was in the midst of the MLS season then, and wasn't as adamant about making a move to Europe as he is now.

This is an interesting development and something to keep close tabs on in the coming weeks.

Buffon's recovery delayed until 2009

Gianluigi Buffon's recovery from a leg muscle injury, suffered on Oct. 5, has been postponed a month. The Juventus goalkeeper was expecting to return to action in December, but further examination of the injury revealed that he needs extra time off.

"It's a little more serious than expected," said the Italian international. "I still have to recover physically, but I should be ready for 2009."

Buffon is now targeting a January 11 return against Siena.

Julio Cruz on the move?

The Gazzetta dello Sport is reporting that Argentine striker Julio Cruz may be on his way out of Inter Milan sooner than expected. Cruz's contract expires after this current season and it appears that Inter does not seem interested in resigning the 34-year-old striker.

Head coach Jose Mourinho has had issues with Cruz as of late, stating that the forward is not a team player. These words have fueled the rumors that Cruz, who has scored crucial goals in Inter's last two matches, could be leaving Inter during the winter transfer window.

The reports are linking Cruz to either surprisingly struggling AS Roma or Spanish giants, Barcelona. Don't be too surprised if you see the Argentine heavily pursuing a move in January, as he still has dreams of playing for the albiceleste in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.


Think Donovan's "trial" is more than just a trial? How do you think Juventus will do without Buffon until mid-January? Do you feel that Cruz is a selfish player? Express your feelings in the comment box below.

Red Bulls Devastate Dynamo 3-0

The New York Red Bulls are headed for the Western Conference Championship after yesterday's 3-0 demolition of the Houston Dynamo. The two-time defending champion Houston Dynamo became the fifth team with the best record in the West to fall in the first round of the playoffs in as many years.

The Red Bulls opened up the scoring midway through the first half as Sinisa Ubiparipovic sent a forward pass to Dane Richards, who took full advantage of the loose marking he was receiving from defender Wade Barrett. As he received the ball, he quickly turned upfield and sped passed Barrett before he blasted a shot into the left side's upper ninety.

New York then found the scoresheet again just nine minutes after their initial goal. In the 36th minute, midfielder Ricardo Clark was called for a hand ball in his area and Juan Pablo Angel rocketed the ensuing penalty kick into the upper left corner giving the Red Bulls an improbable 2-0 lead in Houston.

Juan Carlos Osorio's men would put the nail in the coffin late in the second half. It was just ten minutes away from the final whistle when Richards once again flew by his defender to control the ball just before the touchline. He then placed a firm cross along the ground towards the center of the penalty area and John Wolyiece took care of business as he struck the ball to the back post.

The New York Red Bulls did the unthinkable yesterday by shellacking the Dynamo and they are surprisingly turning their late season adversity into post-season motivation. But Houston did have its fair share of chances in the second half to mount a comeback but to no avail as goalkeeper Danny Cepero made some out of his mind saves to preserve the shutout. The Red Bulls will now have a week to prepare before their clash with Real Salt Lake in this Sunday's Western Conference Final.


Did you see the match? What do you think of the Dynamo's downfall? Think the Red Bulls have what it takes to make it to the MLS Cup Final? Share your thoughts below.

One Step Closer: Crew and RSL Advance

The Columbus Crew and Real Salt Salt Lake have advanced to the next round of the MLS playoffs after both teams held their own against fiesty opponents. The top-seeded Crew have a date with the Chicago Fire next week after their 2-0 blanketing of the Kansas City Wizards. Meanwhile, Real Salt Lake's 2-2 draw with Chivas USA at the Home Depot Center saw them advance on aggregate (3-2) due to last week's final minute goal.

Sigi Schmid's men drew first blood seven minutes from kickoff against their foes as Brian Carroll's chip pass found forward Brad Evans on a well timed run. Evans' run left him isolated and on a breakaway. He then simply flicked the ball over oncoming Wizards goalkeeper Kevin Hartman to give the Crew an early lead.

The Crew then doubled their lead 50 minutes later with a Robbie Rogers strike. The goal came as Argentine Guillermo Barros Schelotto put a through pass to Alejandro Moreno down the right flank. Moreno jolted forward before laying a cross through the penalty area to find an unmarked Rogers, who easily buried the ball into the back of the net.

Up next for Columbus, a meeting with the Chicago Fire in the Eastern Conference Championship on Thursday at 7:30 PM ET. You can see the game nationwide on ESPN2.

On the West Coast, the game between Chivas USA and Real Salt Lake remained scoreless until the 29th minute when Ante Razov dribbled past a pair of players before being fouled by Javier Morales inside the penalty area. Sacha Kljestan, who has been linked to a European move during the upcoming winter, took the penalty kick and struck the ball cooly into the upper right corner.

Real Salt Lake answered with a goal of their own just ten minutes later. Morales found redemption as he sent a cross from the right side of the pitch to midfielder Dema Kovalenko. The 5-foot, 8-inch player lunged forward and headered the ball just inside the back post.

In the 77th minute, Morales added an insurance goal as he received a ball towards the left edge of the penalty area. He cut in front of his defender before hitting a low curler to the far post past Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton.

Chivas USA made it interesting once again as they tied the score in the 83rd minute. A through ball from Francisco Mendoza gave second half substitute Justin Braun enough space to strike the ball past RSL goalkeeper Nick Rimando.

However, Chivas USA needed another goal to even things up on aggregate and Kljestan's late 15-yard shot almost accomplished that feat but the ball went just inches over the crossbar.

Jason Kreis' team now has time to rest until next Sunday's Western Conference Final. The red and blue army will take on the winner of the series between the Houston Dynamo and the New York Red Bulls, which is 1-1 on aggregate and set to be determined later today.

For now though, both the Columbus Crew and Real Salt Lake can rest easily as they've both punched their tickets to their Conference Championships and are one step closer to reaching the MLS Cup Final.


Did you watch the games last night? Think RSL has what it takes to make it to the MLS Cup Final? Excited about the Crew's chances against the Fire? Express your comments below.