Author Archives: Gareth Freeman

The first legs of the European World Cup play-offs took place yesterday (Saturday) and Russia, Portugal and France all take slender advantages into their second legs.

Of the European World Cup play-offs I would argue that the Republic of Ireland’s fixture against France is the pick of the ties.  The Irish have shown a great battling spirit in their qualification campaign so far, drawing twice with … Continue reading →

Argentine ace and Barcelona star Lionel Messi has had quite a year.  After leading Barcelona to an unprecedented treble in the Champions League, La Liga and Copa del Ray he is now up for both the Ballon d’Or (European footballer … Continue reading →

The European World Cup play-offs were drawn today (October 19) and the Republic of Ireland have drawn 1998 winners France.  The Irish will have to beat the French if they are to make it to South Africa and the game … Continue reading →

Chelsea and Côte d’Ivoire striker Didier Drogba has set his sights firmly on World Cup glory with his home nation.  The powerful striker, regarded by many as the best frontman in the world, scored the equalising goal that secured the … Continue reading →

Thierry Henry is a footballer who is not used to failure but France’s place at the World Cup in South Africa next summer is in no way guaranteed.  Les Bleus trail group seven leaders Serbia by four points with just … Continue reading →

Argentina boss and all-round football legend Diego Maradona has hinted he may quit his current post at the end of the qualifying campaign.  Argentina lie fifth in the South American World Cup qualifying table and are in real danger of … Continue reading →

When Sven Goran Eriksson was in charge of the England national team there were always questions about his commitment in the minds of many English fans.  A foreign manager for the national side never quite seemed to sit right but … Continue reading →

Europeam heavyweights and 1998 World Cup champions France have a battle on their hands if they want to qualify for the tournament in South Africa next summer.  They drew with Group Seven leaders Serbia on Wednesday night leaving them four … Continue reading →

Tomorrow night England can put the heartache of missing out on a place in the European Championships behind them by qualifying for the World Cup next summer.  They take on Croatia, at Wembley, knowing a win would guarantee them a … Continue reading →