Scores
Independiente del Valle 0 – 3 CS Emelec [M]
For the first time in a while Emelec didn’t seem to have much of anything going for them. Worse, this loss gave loathed rivals Barcelona sole claim to the top spot in the league
Rosenborg BK 1 – 0 Mjondalen [M]
Rosenborg snapped their skid, but it wasn’t exactly convincing. Åge Hareide’s team couldn’t find a way through throughout regular time despite dominating the run of play. But Ol Piercing Blue Eyes himself Kistoffer Zachariasen saved the day with a last minute winner.
Asante Kotoko 1 – 0 Legon Cities
Against the most legendary club in Ghanaian soccer the Royals looked majestic again in name only. The defense should be commended for their resilience but now would be the time for the attack to flourish as well. (h/t Fatua Duda for winning commendations despite losing)
Freiburg 2 – 0 Arminia Bielefeld [M]
Christian Streich switched to a three man back line a month ago. In the four matches with that formation they’ve drawn twice and won once. It’s not a tremendous turnabout but it’s a big improvement from the side that drifted down the table in October. Phillip Leinhart and Vincenzo Grifo’s surge in form sure helps too.
Aberdeen 2 – 0 Ross County
Speaking of drifting down the table, the Staggies have sunk to the bottom of the premiership. They haven’t gotten a point from the league since early November, and haven’t won since two months before that. They may still have a shot at cup trophies, but their time in the top league may be done after this year.
FK Vozdovac 0 – 2 Partizan Belgrade
I’d be lying if I said I expected anything else, but kudos to the dragons for holding the league leaders scoreless for more than one half!
Grenoble Foot 4 – 0 Dunkerque [M]
Grenoble’s performance in the shadow of the Alps was nothing short of dominant. Again led by Jessy Benet and rampaging full backs Jordy Gaspar and Jerome Mombris they looked every bit the first place (yes, first place) team they have become.
CS Emelec 3 – 0 El Nacional [M]
Estadio George Capwell would have been rocking had people been allowed in. A win over bottom of the table Nacional isn’t exactly surprising, and never seemed to be in doubt., but Jose Cevallos’ brace and another clean sheet sure feels good.
Meppen 0 – 1 SC Freiburg [W]
Meppen has struggled this year, and as Freiburg grows into form they looked strong throughout. Lina Bürger’s late winner was well deserved.
Rosenborg 3 – 1 Molde [M]
A week after a red card got him an early shower, it was a day of good Dino Islamovic. It couldn’t have come at a better time. His brace against fellow top 4 side Molde went a long way to seal a shot at European soccer.
News & Notes
See You Loons
As has been the habit each year, Minnesota United celebrated the end of the season by declining a big pile of contracts.
It’s not too surprising that Kei Kamara and third string keeper Greg Ranjitsingh were let loose. Frequent role players Jose Aja, Aaron Shoenfeld, and Raheem Edwards were a little more surprising, but, without ticket sales, costs must be cut.
HAO! Rosenborg!
On the BBC’s world football podcast American soccer legend Heather O’Reilly admitted that she felt tempted to come back from retirement for a shot at the European Champions League.
A year into her retirement, O’Reilly might need some time to gear up again. So she’s likely have to target the 21-22 campaign. She’s also working as a coach of younger players. So that would be a good thing to continue abroad. And if she seeks to just play in the champions league, a Scandinavian side makes sense….chances are you see where I’m going with this.
Ms O’Reilly meet Rosenborg, Rosenborg meet Heather O’Reilly. (Blakstad, Clausen, O’Reilly…I’ve got goose bumps).
Us 59 – 1 Trump
Another score from the election. This certainly looks decisive. With no time left on the clock, there’s no real chance for a comeback. But President Trump continues to insist that he’s winning and refusing to leave the field. So…not unlike games I used to play against your uncles in the backyard.
Player of the Week
Since they came back from COVID Cancellations, Jordy Gaspar has played 518 of Grenoble’s 540 minutes. In that time, they’ve allowed only two goals and scored ten. He’s been excellent on both sides of the ball, and this week his assist gives us an excuse to finally reward him.
What’s Next
Wednesday, December 16th
11:30 Schalke 04 v. Freiburg [M]
1:00 Javor v. FK Vozdovac
1:45 Livingston v. Ross County
Thursday, December 17th
3:00 CS Emelec v. Olmedo [M]
Friday, December 18th
1:00 Sochaux v. Grenoble [M]
Saturday, December 19th
9:00 Legon Cities FC v. Ebusa Dwarfs
9:00 Ross County v. Hamilton Academical
Sunday, December 20th
7:00 Bayer Leverkusen v. SC Freiburg [W]
11:00 Freiburg v. Hertha Berlin [M]
Monday, December 21st
Tuesday, December 22nd
11:00 Sandefjord v. Rosenborg [M]
1:00 Grenoble v. Troyes [M]
MacKenzie's Boot Room 