Tag: Jonah Attaquaye

Catching up with the Cup: Spring 2025

Catching up with the Cup: Spring 2025

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Disclosure

Okay, so I started with 11 teams that I would write about because it seemed a good way to keep me writing consistently.

For 3 years, I kept up with that pretty well. But in the last two it’s been an absolute non-starter. Knowing that there are LOTS of other places to find scores and analysis, I’m willing to let go of the weekly or even monthly writing…but I really don’t want to forget about the joy of following teams and finding things to learn about and love.

So! Here’s my new model for the MacKenzie Cup: I’ll summarize team records and name a few great players while trying to keep myself to 1-2 sentences and I’ll post about it at key moments in the season to wit

1 post in May/June to cover the end of the European seasons (and start of the others); 1 post in August/September to cover the summer season and changes; 1 post in December to recap the year and crown the champion! So, with that! Here’s the spring summary for our Favorite XIs. (All results from 2/11/2025-6/27/2025)

Minnesota

Results:

Loons: W 9 – D 6- L 4 GF: 31/GA: 21;
Aurora: W 9 – D 2- L 0; GF 27/GA: 4

Total: W 16 – D 7 – L 4; GF: 50/ GA: 22

Great Players:

Tani Oluwaseyi (F); Dayne St. Clair (GK), Robin Lod (MF), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (FB);
Cat Rapp (F–5 goals); Charley Boone (D mastermind); Natalie Tavana (M)

Quick Notes:

The Loons have quietly turned into a premier team in the Western Conference by virtue of hard nosed defense led by Canada’s national goalkeeper: Dayne St. Clair, and the dynamic trio of Jaoquin Pereyra, Tani Oluwaseyi (another Canuck), and Kelvin Yeboah. While the Loons are doing America’s Canada proud, Aurora have been no slouches topping their table again with a ridonkulous goal differential led by Cat Rapp but anchored by one of our favorite Grizz now favorite Aurora Charley Boone! (There have been lots of great moments, but you can’t top our favorite player scoring an amazing goal and celebrating with his baby brother visiting from South Africa.)

Montana

Quick Notes:

The Griz focused on their school work this spring (as per usual) but had fun in training and was recognized as one of 10 programs in the nation (out of 1830 total) to win the United Soccer Coaches Team Pinnacle Award. It honors teams with a 75% winning percentage, superb academics (3.62 GPA) and excellent ethics (ie not drawing cards and penalties). Only 3 teams (men and womens) in the top Collegiate division (560 teams) won the award…the other women’s team? Fancy Pants Braniacs and National Championship contender: Stanford.

Oaxaca

Results

W 1 – D 2 – L 7 GF: 11/GA: 23

Great Players:

Hector Mascorra (MF); Edson Santos (LB)

Quick Notes:

I genuinely don’t know what has happened to Oaxaca of late. The consistent shellacking they received this spring is slightly impressive just in terms of its consistency. At this point there has to be some major changes made to funding or team building or literally everything to see the team change before the next campaign kicks off.

Emelec

Results

Masculino: W 4 – D 6 – L 7; GF 12 /GA: 21
Feminino: W 4 – D 1 – L 13; GF 12/GA: 40

Total: W 8 – D 7- L 20; GF 24/GA: 61

Great Players

Romario Caicedo (FB), Pedro Ortiz (GK), Facundo Castelli (ST)
Melanie Orbia (AM), Kiara Contreras (ST), Domenica Castillo (MF)

Quick Notes:

Halfway through their season, Emelec’s men are once again struggling to meet the expectations of the club and its fans. They seem anchored among the bottom four of the table, though a fortunate return to form for Keeper Pedro Ortiz has them hopeful of righting the ship if they can ever get the attack working beyond Facundo Castelli. Meanwhile, the women’s step up to the Superiga Feminina has brought challenges on both sides of the ball, but the teamwork and dedication has remained steady. Melanie Orbia seems to be the least intimidated of the newly minted top division players with several of the vital goals, she’ll need to be on her game to keep them out of relegation danger.

Legon

Results

W 2 – D 2 – L 11; GF 9 /GA: 27

Great Players

Frank Akoto (CB), Mohammed Alidu (CM)

Quick Notes:

After dodging the drop for the whole time we’ve covered them, the bell tolled for Legon at the end of this season. A dismal run of form sealed an already shaky season, and now that the team is poised to lose their midfield core (Alidu) and other vital players to local rivals Hearts of Oak (including returning legend Jonah Attaquaye) while also being hit with a transfer ban and possible point penalty for unpaid wages means the squad is in a dire situation and some have suggested moving the team back to Wa.

FK Vozdovac

Results:

6/23 (between seasons): W 5 – D 9 – L 3; GF: 16 /GA: 14

Great Players:

Bogdan Petrovic (F), Milan Kolarevic (LW), Mihajlo Milosavic (AM), Danilo Knezivic (DM), Nikola Jankovic (RB)

Quick Notes:

Having dropped into the second division last season, the Red Dragons needed to rediscover their confidence, and it certainly helped to have Bogdan Petrovic lead the charge with 13 goals (good for 2nd place in the league’s golden boot race). But as effective as Petrovic was, the team seemed most effective when Mihajlo Milosavic and Danilo Knezivic were at their best (their decisive loss to Macva that sealed a spot outside of promotion did not have Knezivic in the side…just saying).

Freiburg

Results

Herren: W 6 – D 4 – L 4; GF 21 /GA: 18
Frauen: W 5 – D 3 – L 1; GF 14 /GA: 9

Total: W 11 – D 7 – L 5; GF: 45/GA: 27

Great Players

Vincenzo Grifo (MF); Ritsu Doan (W), Noah Atubolu (GK);
Cora Zicai (W), Selina Vobian (W), Lisa Karl (LB)

Quick Notes:

Freiburg was in the hunt for a Champions’ League spot until the final day of the season when a loss to Frankfurt allowed (Alex’s favorite) Dortmund to slip in tot he final spot. Still it was a great first season for Julian Schuster taking over the reigns from Christian Streich…unfortunately some of the most superb showings of the season may be headed out the door as bigger clubs come knocking (notably Frankfurt for Ritsu Doan and AC Milan for Noah Atubolu). Meanwhile the Frauen had an excellent run of form in the spring, going unbeaten for over two months as the left flank of Lisa Karl and Cora Zicai handled everything they were asked to do and more. The ladies of the black forest are still trying to crack the top three of the league, but they continue to show formidable reserve.

Rosenborg

Results

(6/26) Menner: W 10 – D 5 – L 2; GF 38 /GA: 15
(6/26) Kvinner: W 13 – D 1 – L 3; GF 45 /GA: 15

Total: W 20 – D 6 – L 5; GF: 83/ GA: 30

Great Players

Marius Broholm (W), Adrien Periera (LB), Thomas Nemcick (CB), Sverre Halseth Nypan (CM); Rebecka Holum (W), Celine Emile Nergard (ST), Oline Brekke Fulgem (CM)

Quick Notes:

Reports of the men’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. After a few years of wandering in the wilderness, they are back in the European qualification spots, and owe it largely to a youth movement that may be about to bear even bigger dividends in selling top talents to major clubs around the world (the big buzz isi Sverre Halseth Nypan going to learn from Norwegian giant Erling Haaland in Manchester), but the team’s real strength this season has been the defense which has locked down opponents for the second fewest goals (the leader has played three fewer games).

While the youth took over the men’s team, the women’s side has relied on some more practiced hands…or feet. Striking tandem: Rebecka Holum and Celine Emile Nergard have been a great one-two punch for the Trolljenta with Oline Brekke Fulgem serving as the primary driver of the midfield engine. Sadly, the top two teams (Brann and Valerenga) appear to have run away from the rest of the division, so despite a great showing the long quest for a league championship looks likely to continue into next season. (*Note: I wrote this hoping to reverse jinx the team and put them in line for a trophy…but now that I’ve said that…oh never mind)

Ross County

Results

W 3 – D 3 – L 9; GF 16 /GA: 23

Great Players:

Jordan Amissah (GK), Kacper Lopata (CB), Akil Wright (WB)

Quick Notes:

It must be said that County had been playing with fire for several years now and they finally got burnt to the ground, dropping out of the Premiership in their third trip to the playoffs. They didn’t win a game after March, and while the defense was able to keep them competitive, the absolute disappearance of the attack doomed their hopes of staying in the top tier. Of course, the last time they dropped down they popped right back up again as the top team in the Championship…so here’s hoping to another quick return.

Grenoble

Results

Women: W 9 – D 2 – L 1 GF: 23/GA: 7
Men: W 4 – D 3 – L 5 GF: 17/GA: 17

Total: W 13- D 5 – L 6 GF: 40/GA 24

Great Players

Women: Julie Tissino (GK), Romane Pilot (DF), Elsa Domenjoud (DF), Laurine Baga (MF), Melanie Chabrier (F)
Men: Jessy Bennet (MF), Theo Valls (MF), Shaq Delop (WB), Allain Tchaptchet (CB)

Quick Notes:

The big headline belongs to the ladies of the Alps who captured their long deserved Division 3 Trophy and celebrated with an even more well earned party! The promotion was pegged to the defense as Julie Tissino allowed only 14 goals, 11 fewer than their next closest competitor (with credit also due to captain Elsa Domenjoud and veteran defender Romane Pilot), while Laurine Baga ran the offense in midfield.

Once again, the men’s team had a change in management (though I remain uncontacted…hint), but ever present in the teams consistently competent production was Jessy Bennet, this time bolstered by a defensive duo of Allain Tchaptchet (handling everything in the air) and Shaquil Delos (handling most of the attacks form the wings).

Punjab

Results

W 2 – D 1 – L 4; GF 12 /GA: 10

Great Players:

Ezequiel Vidal (W), Nikhil Prabhu (CM/CB), Tekcham Singh (LB)

Quick Notes:

The Lions of Punjab (via Delhi) had a rough go of their last few matches this season. A three match losing streak, struggling without Luka Macjen or Filip Mrzljak, saw them fall out of the playoff spots and settle in a tenth position. They showed good work in the Super Cup with Ezequiel Vidal helping them to the quarter finals where they fell to eventual Cup Winner FC Goa.

Week 5: Clicking or Sputtering

Week 5: Clicking or Sputtering

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Recaps

Nimes 0 – 2 Grenoble (M)

All hail the conquering hero of Jessy Benet whose return to the Alps has bolstered Matthais Phaeton in the midfield led to a more organized Grenoble side. With new confidence in their approach, the Alpiners are 3 points off of promotion to the top flight of French football again.

FK Radnicki 1923 0 – 1 FK Vozdovac

Our boys in Belgrade made their return to the field this weekend, and despite a shift in their defensive corps, they remained solid at the back in pushing back an insistent and aggressive Radnicki. The dragons didn’t have many chances, but Milos Pantovic converted the penalty after a foolish foul and that was all they needed.

SC Freiburg 0 – 4 VfL Wolfsburg (F)

Ouch…well hopefully the men did…

Dortmund 5 – 1 Freiburg (M)

Ooof….never mind. There are still only 6 points between Freiburg and the top of the table, but they’ll need to get some things sorted out (particularly in the defense) if they’re going to challenge instead of fade away.

Rangers 2 – 1 Ross County

Jordan White gave the Staggies a glimmer of hope against the mighty ‘Gers in Glasgow, but it was snuffed out in the end. The Stags have a promising spine in White, Dhanda and Kenneh, but where the rest of the midfield goes remains a question (especially after Eamonn Brophy was dropped after a miserable first half).

Sudeva FC 1 – 1 Punjab FC

It was a heart breaker, with Luka Macjen putting the warriors ahead courtesy of Chenchyo Geltsyen’s incisive pass it took a last second goal from Sudeva to drop the points. Worse, the tense and chippy atmosphere led to a post whistle red card for defender Huidrom Singh. With 5 matches left, Punjab is in a dead heat with Sreenidi Deccan, and promotion will be on the line.

Legon Cities FC 3 – 1 King Faisal

We have to say, there are few things as fun as Legon Cities in fine form, and that’s what we finally got to see against King Faisal this last weekend. Jonah Attaquye got the first from a solid free kick opportunity just outside the box. The Royals kept the pressure high through the next half until the frenetic final 10 minutes including a Felix Hammond chip and a mammoth free kick from Nasiru Moro. It was a wild but joyous pile on for the Royals, and while it might be expected against a relegation area side in King Faisal, they’re all valuable.

Jade Decilap (from GF 38)

Grenoble Foot 3 – 3 Montauban (F)

The ladies of Grenoble got back in business as well. The were strong right out of the gate with a goal from Jade Decilap straight away after kick off. They held firm and added two more to have a 3-1 lead with 15 minutes to play. Then a poor challenge from defender Elsa Domenjoud gifted Montauban a penalty and reduced the ladies to 10 players. It still took a desperation shot at the end of the match for Montauban to get the draw and spoil the return. Still, hope is high for further progress among the Grenobloises

Sandhausen 0 – 2 Freiburg (M-Cup)

Sandhausen opted to bunker down and absorb everything that Freiburg could throw their way, and it almost paid off with a big cup win. Notice, I said “almost”.

Despite the long defensive slog thrown up by the second division side, Freiburg finally broke through with Phillip Leinhart’s goal that bounced off a Sandhausen defender. After a great block by Lucas Holer, they got another from super sub Nils Peterson to put it beyond doubt, and so, for the second time in two years: Freiburg is headed to the quarterfinals of the Cup.

https://youtu.be/bBJgCs4dG1k

Vierzon FC 0 – 1 Grenoble (M-Cup)

More surprising, the same can be said about the Alpiners! Grenoble has reached the final 8 of the Coupe de France (albeit by beating the underdog darlings of Vierzon FC…not to be confused with Verizon FC…which has marginally less coverage than the third division French side). Loic Nestor delivered the winner after Grenoble besieged their opponent’s goal, and the triumph will put them into a conflict with slightly more prestigious sides.

Alebrijes 0 – 3 CD Tepatitlan de Morelos

An early red card was enough to put Oaxaca at a disadvantage, but two more in stoppage time is true commitment to recklessness.

This result is not reflected in the standings

News & Notes

Uncle Simon celebrating

Your Uncle Simon bests me in golf (both real and imaginary)

Your Uncle Simon is about to be a dad in his own right, so he and I had our own brother bonding time, not unlike yourselves…only with less headlocks that lead to someone running into their room and slamming the door.

An accomplished video game player and golfer, he had a clear advantage in Mario Golf. Still, it was good fun just to joke with him in a game. And I even beat him (on one hole…by one stroke…because the game had a glitch)

Jet-Setting

The biggest club competitions in the world are kicking off again. The Club World Cup in Morocco pits the continental champions from each part of the world against one another. And given that Minnesota United lost to Seattle twice last year, I think it’s fair to say that we’ probably have lost in the Semi-finals just like Seattle did.

And Europe’s elite club competitions (The Champions, Europa, and Conference Leagues) will also kick back into gear this month. Freiburg is our only side still in the hunt (as they have been since last fall) so let’s all knock on some wood.

Player of the Week

At the risk of making this space a Grenoble Appreciation segment, the truth is les Grenobloises are in a groove and its hard to ignore their strong work. This week, we’ve got to tip the hat to Matthaias Phaeton for leading the attack both with distribution and delivery.

Standings

Vozdovac is at the top! (Well they only have 1 match under their belts, so there’s a limited sample size) but even though Punjab has faltered, Grenoble has tied them and has to hope that the ladies give them an added boost.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Vozdovac1003.001.000.00
Punjab4212.002.291.29
Grenoble6222.001.500.90
Legon Cities1311.200.800.80
Freiburg2131.171.172.83
Ross County1330.860.861.00
Alebrijes1040.501.001.60
Rosenborg–b000———
Minnesota–b000———
Montana–b000———
Emelec–b000———
Table Updated 2/8/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Thursday, February 9th

Golukam FC v. Punjab FC

Friday, February 10th

Saturday, February 11th

FK Vozdovac v. Red Star Belgrade

Freiburg v. Vfb Stuttgart (M)

Grenoble v. Pau (M)

Sunday, February 12th

SC Frieburg v. Meppen (F)

Samartex v. Legon Cities FC

Albi Marsacc v. Grenoble Foot (F)

Monday, February 13th

Aizawal v. Punjab FC

Tuesday, February 14th

Wednesday, February 15th

Alacranes v. Alebrijes

Year 3

Year 3

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Last year I thrilled at how I was able to have a normal-ish routine through this writing….then I absolutely lost all sense of routine. Still and all, I’m glad to look back on the year that was and the fates of our favorite 11 sides on the planet.

Final Standings

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK–b3611171.862.231.2
Minnesota–b288151.801.841.27
Freiburg–b2614141.702.411.54
Punjab12671.681.521.36
Alebrijes–b141481.561.280.83
Vozdovac–b149121.461.031.14
Montana–b7761.401.250.85
Legon Cities1214101.391.060.61
Grenoble Foot2110221.351.251.19
Emelec–b1713181.331.501.27
Ross County139211.121.121.46
Table Updated 12/31/22
b–Team is between seasons

None of our favorite teams won any hardware this year, but while no one hit the heights of last year, there was some impressive consistency up and down the table.

Rosenborg takes home this year’s sippy cup, built on a consistent run from both the men and the women. Minnesota came close to matching them, but the Loons couldn’t maintain their mid-summer surge leaving Aurora carrying the load for our local sides.

Freiburg and Punjab put together great runs as well, and the Griffins came away with the most heart breaking outcome of the year losing the German Cup on penalties to more of a money bag team. Punjab’s rotating managers and star players makes it a little hard to build consistency, but clearly they have a strategy that has worked well for them.

Alebrijes de Oaxaca had the greatest improvement from the last year, jumping half a point per game, while Montana had a disappointing turn dropping from dominant to merely good. Still with the Griz seeing tremendous showings from a lot of underclassmen, the future is bright again.

At the bottom of the table, Emelec had a great showing in the Copa Liertadores, but couldn’t keep the same form in Ecuador, meanwhile the ladies became the first team we follow to be relegated out of their division after a dismal campaign, Even so, they still out showed Ross County whose strong finish to the 2023 season has been washed away in an underwhelming fall.

Players of the Year

Coming back with another year of favorite players was again difficult, but we’re noticing that there are some players who are pretty much always on the team sheet. Hats off to Romario Caicedo, Hasret Kayici, and Jonah Attaquye for being in the starting line-up two years running, and welcome back Vincenzo Grifo.

Grifo’s former defensive teammate, Nico Schlotterback, also made the starters. Even though he moved to Dortmund during the summer, his showing with Freiburg left no doubt that he was deserving. The only other team to get multiple players in the starting XI, was Minnesota Aurora off their undefeated regular season with Mackenzie Langdock, and Sarah Fuller.

Antonio Portales’ captaincy and leadership of the vastly improved Alebrijes made him their first starter, and Sarah Kanutte Forness took the Julie Blakstad endowed chair in the midfield (I’m going to bring up Julie Blakstad once a year, so help me goodness).

And at the front of the attack, we put Casper Tengstedt, who led Rosenborg, despite only playing for them for half the year, and the golden boot winner in Scotland: Regan Charles Cook.

We also expanded our bench (if 9 subs is good enough for the World Cup, it’s good enough for us!). This helped us to find spots for every team in our list including Laliz Tenorio for las Electricas, and our favorite Haitian international: Sherly Jeudy. Allie Larsen reps the Grizzlies, while Milos Pantovic, and Kurtiss Guthrie get the nods for Vozdovac and Punjab. Minnesota United also contributed two members to the bench as Robin Lod and Dayne St. Clair had great years, but not quite great enough to take starting jobs from the others.

What’s Next

I can and will be more consistent in writing, and after the fun of having you boys contribute ideas and messages to the videos after matches, I want to plan on taking you to more games (Minnesota Aurora for sure, maybe we can find a plac eon our family vacation in Mexico.

Last year I also tried to set a standard of talking to reps from each team, but only got two done before the move consumed my life. We’ll try again this year.

What’d we Miss?

What’d we Miss?

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It was a regular year, until it wasn’t.

Not in a world shaking, business shuttering, economy crashing, global pandemic way.

But it was a hefty change in the way we lived and the work that was needed.

We bought a house.

My waking hours shifted from leisurely repair projects punctuated by writing inspiration, to an incessant to do list of packing, repacking, scheduling, painting, rescheduling and suddenly recalling undone tasks.

I had hoped that when we moved in, I could return to writing more. I neglected to notice how the minor house issues you put off become a lot more vital once you move in.

I’m under no illusions now. This project sits firmly to the side on my list of hustles (in the non-profitable category). But I remain dedicated to that idea, that if you show the world how you play, it will show the world who you are.

If we look at and cheer for eleven teams around the world, it can show us how to live. This year, we cheered more than we watched. But we can still see how to live.

How did they do, while life forced us to make other plans? What can we learn from it all…here are their results and our thoughts

Rosenborg

Women’s Record: 9 W-2 D-6 L// 30 GF-20 GA

Men’s Record: 16 W-4 D- 5 L//75-GF 38-GA

Story: as has been the routine, Rosenborg has all kinds of attacking strength. They spent most of the summer pouring in goals. Émilie Nautnes and Sara Kanutte Forness led one line while mid season acquisition Casper Tengstedt set the other one on fire (15 goals in 14 matches…yikes!)

But each side also faced some serious challenges. The men couldn’t seem to hold a defensive shape, scoring and ceding goals in droves en route to another distant third place finish. Meanwhile the troll kvinner got knocked down by Real Madrid’s ladies side and seemed to end an otherwise stellar season in a rotten funk losing three of their final four to miss out on another crack at the Champions League next year.

Lesson: balance yourself, neither your strengths nor your struggles define you.

Minnesota

Women’s Record: 13 W-1 D-1 L//39 GF-10 GA

Men’s Record 9 W-4 D-9 L//34 GF – 41 GA

Story: Locally we had some absolutely marvelous moments this summer. I say that not only because I had you boys with me at a few matches, but because the quality of the games was superb.

For a stretch, no one was playing better soccer than Minnesota United. Dayne St. Clair was stopping everything hit his way, Emmanuel Reynoso was connecting with everyone around him. Robin Lod had made me look utterly foolish by becoming someone people around the world were eyeing hopefully.

It all came undone of course. The Loons ended up squeaking into the playoffs and then bowing out quickly, but it was still wonderful while it lasted.

Likewise the first season for Minnesota Aurora was practically perfect. The team went unbeaten throughout the regular season and combined superb defense with a dynamite attack. Sarah Fuller anchored the defense in the goal, and Morgan Turner poured in the goals, and the team became a vital part of the larger community connecting players, fans, coaches, and staff. Even though it ended in defeat at the final hurdle (seems to be a theme for our favorites), it was a marvelous way to spend a summer.

(As an added bonus, the youngest member of Aurora, Bayliss Flynn, signed to join the Montana Grizzlies, so she is the second athlete to play for two of our favorites)

Lesson: There’s no place like home.

Freiburg

Men’s Record 15 W – 5 D – 3 L// 42 GF- 22 GA

Women’s Record 6 W – 1 D – 3 L// 25 GF- 14 GA

Story: Janina Minge has emerged as a leading innovator offensively for die Freiburg Frauen. But, they have continued to lack a decisive element that would vault them up into the Bundesliga’s top tier alongside Wolfsburg, Bayern, or Frankfurt. (Maybe they could use some of Minnesota Aurora’s squad…just saying)

But that’s exactly where the men’s team has found a new stride. Christian Stretch’s steady presence has been a model for players who bring out their best every week, even with an extra competition in the Europa League to challenge them, the Griffins are having another tremendous season, with Mathias Ginter and Christian Günter leading the defense, and newly adopted Ritsu Doan joining Vincenzo Grifo to lead the attack.

Lesson: much as we want the shiniest trophies, being your best, regardless of the result can be the greatest reward

Round Glass Punjab

Record: 4 W- 1D-1L//7 GF-5 GA

Story: While most of the world turned their attention to the World Cup in Qatar, Punjab’s season got started, but with a different look than usual. Gone is last year’s dominant scorer Kurtiss Guthrie (off to play in Scotland against Ross County), in are a host of eastern european veterans. Gone are the run of British coches, in is Greek manager Staikos Vergetis. But best of all, Nepali keeper Kiran Limbu Chempjong (though, he hasn’t been as unbeatable this year as he was in his previous run with the club).

Still the special winter season on the subcontinent has a long way to go before we’re done, so we’ll sit back and enjoy what is rather than wonder about what was.

Lesson: Whatever else you focus on, life carries on.

Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Record: 4 W-9 D-5 L//22 GF-18 GA

Story: Alebrijes closed out the spring season with a sterling showing. They seemed to have everything well handled in attack and defense. But then they were undone in the playoffs, and come the fall campaign seemed to have lost all their mojo. The departure of Juan Portales made the defense less stable, and the crucial finishing touch to turn draws into victories. And then they lost in the playoffs.

Lesson: what seem like your best days and hardest days all end in the same place.

Vozdovac

Record: 9 W-4 D-6 L//17 GF-22 GA

Story: The Red Dragons continue to methodically build their team and their identity the hard way. Match by match, game by game, step by step. After saying goodbye to a raft of their regular talents, the team got significantly younger during the offseason, bringing in a raft of under 21 talent to nurture and grow on their own. Even though the team still hasn’t hit the top of the table (thanks again Partizan and Red Star), they are consistently a team to challenge you, and Milos Pantovic has proven himself (at only 20 years old) to be a dynamic scorer. (I’m still hoping for some more break out showings by Bogdan Jocic, and Borisav Burmaz.)

Lesson: Hope is a thing with dragon wings.

Montana

Record: 7 W-7 D-6 L//25 GF-17 GA

Story: The years we’ve kept track on this blog have been a consistent study in the excellence of the Griz. So much so that it started to seem like a forgone conclusion. The Griz were certainly prepped to bring another conference title home after holding their own against non-conference opponents (including ties against much more prestigious schools including Creighton and close defeats to Pitt and Portland).

But every year is different, and it seemed as though the other teams found a path through the vaunted Griz defense, or at least that there was more pressure than usual on Camilla Xu. Maysa Walters and Delaney Schorr were a solid goal scoring combination, but ultimately there was more depth and diversity in attack from Northern Arizona and Idaho (whose goalies also managed to stop more shots than Xu). The Griz did what they do well, other teams just did it better.

Lesson: Game Recognizes Game.

Grenoble

Women’s Record: 4 W-1 D-5 L//18 GF-13 GA

Men’s Record: 7 W-5 D-3 L//16 GF-12 GA

Story: The records don’t tell the whole story for the Alpiners. Nicolas Delpine’s side continued to showcase the skills and talents of Sherly Jeudy week in and week out, but (as we’ve seen before) the defense has been more suspect, giving up about three goals per game. But, things have turned around well the last couple of weeks and the team heads into the break with two wins in a row (three if they win in the Cup this Sunday)

Meanwhile, the men dusted themselves off after a lackluster previous season and are well positioned to, once again, put themselves in contention for promotion during the season’s second half. The team has been on a seven match unbeaten run with a trio of new attackers leading the charge. Pape Meissa Ba, Jordan Tell, and Abdoulie Sayang are all new to the squad in the year 2022, and they have led the scoring. But the team has been Matthias Phaeton, the Guadeloupe player who has featured in every match as a sub or a starter and has bopped everywhere there’s grass in pursuit of the game. Add this to our beloved backline squad and you have a strong team that may just get stronger in the spring.

Lesson: Never underestimate the element of surprise

Legon Cities

Record 3 W-8 D-5 L//8 GF-8 GA

Story: I love Legon as much as I love Nkatekwan, and as you boys seem to have inherited my zeal for all things peanut buttery, I think you’ll know that’s a lot of love. Legon loves Jonah Attaquye as well. He’s only 22 and he has fast become their talisman. And yet, Jonah can’t do it all on his own. The increasing pressure of carrying the load for the team, distributing the ball to scorers who struggle to connect and running the show. This season, he and defender Suleman Mohammed have missed a total of 5 minutes across all their games.

Lesson: Love is Love, but dependency is dangerous.

Ross County

Record: 7 W-4 D-10 L//25 GF-31 GA

Story: A year ago, the fall campaign was anything but kind to the Staggies. The team looked to be every bit as shaky as it was when it faced relegation, but then the ship was righted and they got their best final table position in about a decade.

But that was with Reagan Charles Cook playing chef du’jour. With his departure for Belgium, County had to try to fill in with a raft of other players to match his same creativity and finishing. While midfielder Yan Dhada brings an impressive resume and strong creativity, we’ve yet to see either Jordy Hiluwa or Jordan White dominate the game the way Regan did. So it’s a lot like last season…but that turned out pretty well so lets be patient.

Lesson: Enjoy the comfort food of home cooking while it lasts.

Emelec

Women’s Record: 1 W-1 D-4 L//4 GF-11 GA

Men’s Record: 7 W-5 D-5 L//23 GF-17 GA

Story: Los Bombillos and Las Electricas had a little less productive campaign than in prior years. The goals seemed to dry up and there was no clear answer in goal. Laliz Tenorio, the woman who is older than your Uncle Simon and twice as powerful, led the attack (as best she could). Unfortunately, things were so ineffective, that Emelec was dropped out of the top Women’s League in Ecuador and will now need to earn promotion again. I’ve been looking for where I can find coverage of the amateur women’s leagues in Ecuador, but I may not be able to find it…hopefully we’ll see Las Electricas again soon.

Likewise, the men who offered such dominance in prior years, could not break through to the upper echelon of the league. In the past they might have been able to pull some surprises against opponents in knock-out stages, but this year it was only the champion of each half of the season. The team did break through into the knock out stages of the big continental battle of the Copa Libertadores, bowing out to former Brazilian boss “Hulk”. Even though his career in Guyaquil looks to be over, Sebastian Rodriguez closed out his three year career with the club as a leader and definitive goal scorer. And as ever, Romario Caiceido continues to be the air raid master in his dangerous balls.

Lesson: Part of the journey is the end, and that’s beautiful too.

Standings

There are two more weeks of relevant matches, but the standings are pretty clearly set. Grenoble and Legon Cities could reach the mid-table and Punjab could climb as high as 3rd. But Rosenborg BK has set themselves up for their second Sippy Cup in three years.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Rosenborg BK–b3611171.862.231.2
Minnesota–b288151.801.841.27
Freiburg–b2614141.702.411.54
Punjab11571.651.611.48
Alebrijes–b141481.561.280.83
Vozdovac–b149121.461.031.14
Montana–b7761.401.250.85
Grenoble Foot2110211.401.251.19
Legon Cities1113101.351.000.62
Ross County139181.201.131.45
Emelec–b1713180.671.501.27
Table Updated 12/15/22
b–Team is between seasons
Week 7: More than One Goal is Showing Off

Week 7: More than One Goal is Showing Off

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Results

Ross County 1 – 1 Livingston

Stop me if you’ve heard this before. Ross County was saved by a late equalizer. Okay, that may be a new trope for the Staggies but the hero of the hour was different: Loanee Kayne Ramsay hammered home a header on a cross from Blair Spital to keep Dundee at arms length in the relegation battle. (It was particularly valuable as for the first time in memory Regan Charles-Cook and Joseph Hungbo we’re bottled up on the rainy pitch.)

Alebrijes 1 – 0 Venados

Carlos Gurrero’s second half lightning strike was the difference maker in Oaxaca. Oaxaca’s As they near the half way point in the spring season, Alebrijes’ strong offense and steady defense, sits comfortably in the playoff spots, a far cry from the distant after thought they’ve been of late.

Freiburg 0 – 3 Bayern Munich [F]

Last week’s strong showing couldn’t carry over to Freiburg’s match with German titans Bayern Munich. But it was one less conceded than the four shipped in Munich last fall.

Freiburg 1 – 1 Mainz [M]

Nils Petersen made a superb contribution as a substitute to salvage a point for Freiburg after a discouragingly flat performance from the German’s attack.

Grenoble 1 – 3 Sochaux[M]

Newcomer Jordan Tell got off to a flying start with a goal in the first minute of the match. But with 89 minutes to go, Grenoble peaked a little early. Disappointingly, they couldn’t capitalize on a man advantage during the second half. Even worse after removing Jordy Gaspar and Yoric Ravet they completely lost the thread…and the match

Kolubara 1 – 0 Vozdovac [M]

The Red Dragons of Vozdovac weren’t able to start 2022 as well as they had ended 2021. After ceding an early goal, they never seemed to find a way back into the match and left with the sinking realization that with 8 matches left in the season, they may be 4 points behind 4th place, but they’re also 5 points above relegation. So it’s not remotely over yet.

Grenoble Foot 1 – 0 Thonon Evian [F]

A mere 2 hours by car, Thonon might well be the closest thing Grenoble gets to a derby (at least until they regularly face French female giants: Lyon). It showed in a very back and forth first half as each time pushed for an advantage early on. Grenoble got the first goal, and all the glory that followed thanks to Adama Tamba (you can’t see the strike very well, but you can see the gorgeous mountains…and really…that’s always a win). A defensive second half sealed the win for all three points (and drew Grenoble one point closer to Thonon–with a game in hand)

Legon Cities FC 1 – 0 King Faisal

The internet is a marvelous thing. While preparing lessons and reviewing student work, I was able to keep one eye flickering toward the live updates coming from Accra. So I got to “watch” sort of as Croster Obour and Hans Kwofie terrorized Faisal’s defense. I was in a meeting when Jonah Attaquye scored the winner (again on a great Kwofie cross and Obour feint), but the fact that he did was all I needed.

Grenoble 1 – 0 Niort [M]

The alpiners got their first win of the Vincent Hognon era thanks to strong control from the right wing. Yoric Ravet crossed in the ball from the corner and got it to Loic Nestor who headed home the winner. All this plus a strong showing from Loris Nery (including a goalline clearance to keep the lead) and Souleymane Cissee kept the wings strong and gave Grenoble all they needed.

News & Notes

Catching up with Rosenborg

We saw a few favorites leave Rosenborg last month (pouring out the Akavit for Julie and Emmanuel) but in the rush we missed the even bigger news of a new manager.

Kjetil Rekdal will step into the dugout for the men’s team after several stints around Norway (and one in Germany). Among his early moves is bringing in Seattle raised defender Samual Rogers who he worked with at his last club.

Vitals on Vozdovac

While I’m usually able to keep up on news for most teams (barring the little confusion over RBK’s management situation), Serbian transfer news is not often on my radar. But with the Red Dragons soaring back into action, it seemed only right to cover some of the comings and goings from the Rooftop Stadium.

Quite a few strong veterans have left the club. Uzbekistan gobbled up both winger Aleksandar Stanisjavic, and goalie Miloje Prekovic (Prekovic almost single handedly saved the squad from relegation back in 2020). Meanwhile rising defender Aleksandar Bogdanavic moved up to the more reliably competitive Radniki, and striker Nikolai Vujnovic got a loan to Sporting Kansas City (so we may actually see him in person sooner than we thought)

Cirkovic becomes a Dragon

In their stead comes a raft of young talents. Midfield duo Matin Novakovic and Andrej Blagovic were let loose from the higher profile clubs of Red Star and Partizan, but at only 21 and 20 they may become the fulcrum for a great attack. They also brought in a Spanish trained winger in Aleksandar Cirkovic. (But given how rarely they sell any players ever, I’m not sure this move will translate to long term success.)

Player of the Week

After another week with no real stand out showings, it’s a good time to tip the hat to someone who has been in great form throughout the recent weeks, even if they haven’t had a particularly outstanding match this week. For us this week, that’s Croster Obour of Legon Cities who has been a much valued spark plug for the Royals and even served as a great dummy this week.

Sorry Croster, we don’t have a trophy (or an electric razor), but we still love ya!

Standings Update

I said that Vozdovac could stun the world in their comeback. Instead they lost. But so did Freiburg! And as a result we have not only a new leader, but a new top two! Legon Cities and Alebrijes de Oaxaca are only separated by 4 hundredths of a point. At the same time, with their first two wins of the calendar year, Grenoble can reasonably hope that the worst is behind them.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Legon Cities4221.751.50.5
Alebrijes de Oaxaca3311.711.10.9
Freiburg3231.41.51.8
Ross County2321.31.61.4
Grenoble2341.01.01.3
FK Vozdovac0010.00.01.0
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 2/16/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 16th (AKA Mom’s Birthday)

Cimarrones v. Alebrijes

Thursday, February 17th

Friday, February 18th

Emelec v. CSD Macara [M]

Saturday, February 19th

Hibernian v. Ross County

Augsburg v. Freiburg [M]

Nimes v. Grenoble [M]

Sunday, February 20th

Vozdovac v. Radniki Nis

Grenoble Foot v. Yzeure Allier [F]

Monday, February 21st

Tuesday, February 22nd

Mineros v. Alebrijes

Week 6: Next Chapters

Week 6: Next Chapters

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Results

Koln 1 – 0 Freiburg [M]

It was certainly a case of unluckiness for Freiburg against their fellow surprise side in this year’s Bundesliga. Koln got a point closer to Europe with the win, but Freiburg slipped one point closer to no luck at all. And all of it was underlined by an equalizer for the griffins that got called back by video officials after the fact.

Dundee FC 1 – 2 Ross County

The Stags superb 2022 continues apace with some superb hustle making the most out of innopportune moments in Dundee’s defense. Joseph Hungbo stole one goal off a lurking reply to as sloppy clearance, and the Straw that Stirs the Scotch, Regan Charles-Cook, came through with a driving winner to giving the highlanders all the points from a match on the road in a brutal battle with a fellow team from the bottom of the stacks.

Quevilly 1 – 0 Grenoble [M]

Quevilly had seen as shabby a run of form as les Grenobloises have had lately, but the difference was they changed their luck while Grenoble failed to make the most of their new manager’s debut. The Alpiners looked lively to be sure, but there’s still a long way to go before they can breathe comfortably again. Hopefully last week’s squad makeover will help keep them afloat in Ligue 2 this year. (Though they’ll have to do it without Adrien Monfray who broke two ribs in stoppage time.)

Eintracht Frankfurt 1 – 2 Freiburg [F]

Though Freiburg were one player up for most of the match, they had to work for all the points. Well, that’s not totally true. Hasret Kayicki capitalized again, off the free kick that stemmed from the red card (seriously, Frankfurt, hair pulling on a goal chance…be better…). But it took Elena Memeti’s second half strike, and an extended spell of strong goalkeeping from Rafaela Borggrafe to secure all the points for a much needed road win.

Karela United 1 – 1 Legon Cities FC

Playing on, arguably the nicest pitch in Ghana, the Royals got a good start and, thanks to Jonah Attaquye’s consistent pursuit of extra chances, a solid goal to open the scoring. (Karela scored straight away from the restart, but it was a nice 60 seconds.)

Olympique Marseille 2 – 2 Grenoble Foot [F]

Twice the ladies of Grenoble grabbed the lead and twice, Marseille brought it back to even. Not bad for the counter-attacking system on the road against one of the bigger clubs in France. Romane Pilot got the first and Sherly Jeudy grabbed the second after entering as a substitute.

News & Notes

Grenobles Guides

With winter olympics starting again, Grenoble (who hosted the games in 1968) might be feeling wistful about a possible return to prominence. Thus the duo of news made by Men’s and Women’s teams this last week.

First came the new coach for the men’s side, Vincent Hognon, who has coached with Metz in the past, has been tapped to take on Grenoble for the rest of their campaign to stay afloat. The team that seemed to collapse after last year’s near promotion, badly needed a change: hopefully Hognon is the right man for the moment.

Then came word that the women’s coach, Nicolas Delepine, has also been named to be the head coach of Haiti’s women’s team in the run up to 2023’s Women’s World Cup in New Zealand. As an added perk, he may just be able to call on old friend/Grenoble striker Sherly Jeudy to lead the charge as they prepare to go for the gusto next weekend.

Freezing too Cold

As someone who loves soccer, and has been enthralled with the World Cup every four years for the vast majority of my life, it was very tempting to get tickets for a World Cup Qualifier a scant mile and a half from home. However, the price, and the reality that it would likely be freezing cold in Minnesota in February made me decide against it.

It was the right call.

Temperatures were well below zero. Players were unhappy (a few were even substituted for medical reasons). Fans reported miserable conditions despite a great result. Meanwhile, your mom and I watched the Great British Bake Off…so…I feel good about my life choices.

Goin’ Pro

We have our new favorite Icelandic side!

The Griz continue to churn out some superb student athletes who are becoming professional athletes. This week Mimi Eiden and Caitlin Rogers signed with Grindivik in Iceland to bring a little Big Sky to Scandanavia. Meanwhile, Taylor Hansen continues to try out with San Diego Wave FC (in scrimmages she’ll have to face off against US Women’s Team legend Alex Morgan…and vie to be a backup to Gold Medalist: Kailen Sheridan and England International Carly Telford…lucky her).

Punjab Comes Back Around

After almost 3 months of frozen fixtures, India’s Hero League will be back at the beginning of March. They’ll leave the bubble of Kolkata for the broader state of West Bengal, but the structures and expectations will remain the same (play everyone, then focus on your fellow title contenders or relegation fighters). We’re excited for soccer to be back on the sub-continent, hopefully for a full season this time.

Player of the Week

There’s a lot of things to appreciate in the past week: late comebacks, long standing perseverance, new beginnings, but we’re going to tip the cap to long standing and reliable leader for a team that we often can’t see: the ladies from Freiburg. So thank you Hasret Kayici, may this small award be solace for getting pulled down by your hair. (It was also nice to read this little profile on her)

Standings Update

For the first time in 2022 there’s no shuffling to be done. Freiburg maintains their top spot thanks to the ladies’ win while Legon misses a chance to move up. Nobody is looking dominant…yet. (That’s your cue to stun the world Vozdovac)

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
Freiburg3121.71.81.7
Legon Cities3221.61.60.6
Alebrijes de Oaxaca2311.51.21.0
Ross County2221.41.71.5
Grenoble0330.51.01.5
University of Montana–b——————
Rosenborg BK–b——————
Minnesota United–b——————
FK Vozdovac——————
Emelec–b——————
Punjab FC–b——————
Table Updated 2/9/22
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, February 9th

Ross County v. Livingston

Alebrijes v. Venados

Thursday, February 10th

Friday, February 11th

Saturday, February 12th

Freiburg v. Bayern Munich [F]

Freiburg v. Mainz [M]

Grenoble v. Sochaux[M]

Sunday, February 13th

Kolubara v. Vozdovac [M]

Grenoble Foot v. Thonon Evian [F]

Monday, February 14th

Legon Cities FC v. King Faisal

Tuesday, February 15th

Grenoble v. Niort [M]

Year 2

Year 2

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I started this blog two years ago back before “pandemic” and “nasal swab” were words in daily conversation. It’s been wonderful to keep a hold of one normal-ish routine in a supremely surreal time.

Here’s how things shook out in 2021 among our favorite 11 sides on the planet.

Final Standings

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana22182.161.50.7
Rosenborg BK419152.032.31.2
Emelec2711141.771.61.2
Punjab FC8461.561.20.9
Freiburg2611231.481.71.5
Grenoble2210221.411.21.2
Minnesota United1310121.401.21.3
Legon Cities1310151.291.11.0
FK Vozdovac1311161.251.11.4
Ross County149201.191.31.5
Alebrijes714121.061.21.6
Table Updated 12/31/21

It’s one thing to have a superlative season after COVID, win your league and make a superb showing in unlikely circumstances. It’s another to do it again a couple months later. But that’s exactly what the University of Montana Griz did this year, and that’s why they ran away with this year’s cup. (U of M soccer jerseys are not available, but rest assured, I will find a way to be as close to full kit dork as possible.)

Emelec came away with the other 2021 trophy we commemorated on that part of the site, but couldn’t pass the dynamic duo of teams in Trondheim…even though neither of them won so much as a silver pudding spoon this year. Still, never bet against Julie Blakstad.

Most teams improved on the last campaign (which is saying something for as woeful as Alebrijes was), only Grenoble, Minnesota United, and FK Vozdovac saw regressions (however the Loons and the Dragons both stayed in good position for the standings…Grenoble, well…the spring was fun.)

Players of the Year

I so deeply enjoyed naming a team of XI favorites, that I took time to track the weekly award winners and sort out who showed up for their team week in and week out.

In goal it was a brutal choice: but We had to opt for the legend: Claire Howard who made the Griz so dominant in the spring and won a pair of player of the week honors.

The back line also had a strong set of selections to draw from. Attention had to be paid to four players who kept up the intensity at both ends of the pitch for four teams who broadly exceeded expectations. Jerome Mombris takes his second straight top XI selections while Romario Caicedo worked wonders in Emelec. Meanwhile Taylor Hansen was absolutely dominant as a Griz captain, and Christian Gunter was one of only three players to get two PoW winners.

The midfield sees two more repeat honorees on the left side with Julie Blakstad and Emanuel Reynoso returning with honors. The other side of the midfield sees two new names who are absolutely invaluable to their respective sides, with Jonah Attaquye masterminding the few attacks that have worked for Legon, and Hasret Kayici, you might say as she goes, so go die Frauen auf Frieburg.

Instead of shouting out the most dominant goal scorers at the spear head of the attack, we opted for decisive ones: Roundglass Punjab’s Chenchyo Geltsen and Vozdovac’s Nicola Vujnovic.

As for the bench, we had to slot the third double PoW winner here (sorry Kiran Limbu…you’re just not Claire Howard). The best defenses of the year (Legon and Rosenborg) came away with the two defensive bench spots: Erland Reitan and Joseph Adjei (the only honoree without a PoW). Joseph Hungbo’s recent run of amazing form and stellar goals gave him the rights to Ross County’s spot on the side, and Kristoffer Zacharissen’s dreamy eyes great leadership for half the year got him dropped onto the bench this year. Finally we kept the top scorers for two under represented sides as our scoring sparks off the bench: Adama Tamba for les femmes de Grenoble, and Kerly Corozco for las Electricas de Emelec.

This year we couldn’t find a way to work in a representative of Alebrijes: too many strong showings owed to the other side collapsing rather than an excellent performance on their end.

Finally, I just want to point out how tight the competition was for goalkeeper this year with three players who didn’t even get close to the bench: Winifred Honsu came out of nowhere to replace Fatua Duda in Legon, Pedro Ortiz remains indefatigable for both club and country, and Camila Xu thrilled us as just a freshman.

What’s Next

Let’s do it again shall we?

Oh, okay, maybe we’ll be more selective in our video taping (what with Alex starting to refuse and Owen mostly wanting to see himself…hmmm…maybe he’s got a future in punditry).

One thing I’m going to aim for in 2022: let’s see if we can get some conversations with people from the clubs…players…managers…confused communication interns…I’m not picky.

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

Weeks 45: Celebrate Good Times, Come ON!

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Results & Recaps

Alebrijes 2 – 1 Correcaminos

Great day in the morning Oaxaca won a game without the need for late heroics. Just a very, very, very fortunate bounce on an otherwise irrelevant free kick. [Sorry fortunate bounces, you can’t win player of the week.]

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Sacramento State Hornets

The Griz kicked off conference tournament play with a stout defensive effort. Camila Xu stood tall, the back line shut down the hornets and all it took was one quality ball for Charley Boone to play the hero and get her first goal in “like ten years”. The (admittedly, late) win took the Griz one step closer to a second title of the year (more on that in a bit)

Vozdovac 1 – 1 Cukaricki

Cukaricki continues to lead the “Best team not named Partizan/Red Star” competition, so a draw for the dragons feels like a solid showing. All the more because Milos Milosovic scored the equalizer as part of an organized second half comeback following a first half that saw the defense split open like pumpkin on Halloween and amid an utter downpour.

Emelec 2 – 0 Mushuc Runa [M]

Los bombillos came through again to keep up the pressure on Independuente del Valle with Alexis Zapata crushing a gorgeous goal to put them ahead, and Pedro Ortiz standing tall in goal to keep it that way. The top two teams will meet in two weeks with trophies likely on the line.

Bayern Munich 2 – 1 Freiburg [M]

To be honest, we knew that Freiberg’s and beaten the streak would end. We had plenty of reason to suspect it would happen here. And hey we were right.

Freiburg likely won’t be standing atop the league in May, but their effective showings against both Bayern and Dortmund suggests that Europe really is within reach.

Legon Cities 3 – 2 Real Tamale

For the first time in their current incarnation, Legon led the league! (On goal difference…for a couple hours…because most teams had yet to play twice) Still it was great to see Jonah Attuquaye’s penalty seal the deal (and Nathaniel Akwah’s free kick blast just because, well, it’s freaking awesome).

https://youtu.be/lApW6tb4UI8

Brann 2 – 2 Rosenborg [M]

Erland Dahl Reitan set up both the opening goal, an invaluable second half equalizer, and some strong defensive squeezing as Rosenborg had surprising difficulty with relegation bound Brann.

Grenoble 1 – 0 Dunkerke [M]

Loïc Nestor remains an indefatigable Mr Grenoble. While many long term teammates have left, Loïc stays strong. While a dozen other players tried Dunkerke’s defense and blasted away at goal, Loic was the one who made the difference. In addition to shuttling back on the wing to stymie attacks and, in this case, streaking forward to score the match winner in stoppage time.

Kolbotn 1 – 2 Rosenborg [F]

After a few weeks in hiding Julie Blakstad struck back with a vengeance Sunday. She scored both goals in Rosenborg’s last road game this year. At times it seemed like Kolbotn’s defense was more of a help than any sterling offense, but we’ll take every win we can get

Nice 4 – 1 Grenoble Foot [F]

To put it mildly, this wasn’t Grenoble’s day. The match report from my preferred Grenoble soccer blog highlighted an assault on goal by players with first division experience. So the loss was very much sensed. Sherly Jeudy got another late goal (this one, very much a consolation)

Rangers 4 – 2 Ross County

The Stags weren’t terribly likely to get two wins in a row when they had to face reigning Scottish champs Rangers. Still Joseph Hungbo showed his class, Regan Charles Cook reaffirmed his, and Harry Paton got a solid assist as well.

Turbine Potsdam 2 – 1 SC Freiburg

Despite an opening goal from (who else) Hasret Kayicki, Freiburg’s Frauen couldn’t keep up with Potsdam and continued their inconsistent form.

Montana Grizzlies 1 – 0 Weber State Wildcats *Big Sky Conference Championship*

The Griz were a little fortunate that Weber State knocked out hosts, regular season champs and the only big sky squad to Best them Northern Colorado. But that’s how tournaments go, you get some good luck and some bad.

The best luck for the team came on a couple of loose balls. Just like in the semi-finals Camilla Xu’s long ball worked well to set up an attack, and the quick overlap from Zoe Transtrum to Jaden Griggs did all the work.

Best of all you boys got to watch it together, and celebrate with one voice.

LA Galaxy 3 – 3 Minnesota United

It was a wild one in Southern California on Sunday night as the Loons managed to get a vital point to seal their spot in the MLS playoffs. Adrien Hunou and Robin Lod put the Loons in control early on, but the Galaxy made all the adjustments necessary to come back and take the lead. Luck was on the Loons’ side as an own goal gave them the last boost to keep a spot in the playoffs (and send both LA teams home for the winter)

Cancun FC 1 – 2 Alebrijes de Oaxaca

Alebrijes can head into the offseason with their heads held high, finishing with a pair of their best performances all season. Andre Alcaraz had to withstand a bevy of shots and did so with grace despite the back line giving him precious little cover. The goals had a flavor that had been lacking in the season that was with Miguel Vallejo’s free kick and Lizandro Echeverria’s excellent positioning doing the duty for the team’s goals. Getting 9 points off their last six matches, boosted Oaxaca’s final standings (but they still need a lot of help/losing from other teams) to avoid a wooden spoon award.

News & Notes

Boys 2 – 0 Uncle Simon

At Owen’s birthday party you guys dominated your Uncle Simon, pelting him with leaves every chance you got. Well played to both of you. And still he and Auntie E got you a very noisy, very fun, combination soccer goal and basketball hoop…so you may have beaten him, but be still gets the better of me.

Tournament Time Again

The NCAA tournament is one of the most magical times of the year, and to have two in one year is extra fun. This time, the Griz won’t be jetting across the country to face one of the toughest teams in the country, they’ll just head over the Rockies. The Griz get another power conference team in the Washington State Cougars, one that’s in the top 20 in the country. But the Griz have also notched their highest winning total in 20 years, why not repeat that 20 year cycle with a repeat win in the tournament (a win that came, conveniently enough, against Washington State).

Another International Weekend

Teams around the world are inching ever closer to the final rounds of World Cup qualification. This week should see the end of group play in Africa and Europe, with several teams inking their spots in Qatar next year, and several more heading back to the drawing board. We’ll be keeping an extra close eye on players plying their trade for country and perhaps if Nico Schlotterbeck and Christian Gunter can become part of a German team that’s already punched their ticket for the biggest stage of them all.

Player of the Week

Having already heaped the praise on Camilla Xu, lets make a little room for Erland Dahl Reitan. Who not only supported the attack this week but has been a vital component in one of Norway’s best defenses all year. (Sloppy results this last week not withstanding, Reitan deserves a bit of recognition here.

Standings Update

It is officially academic. Even if both Rosenborg sides win all of their games and the Griz crash out in Pullman, Washington, the Griz have enough points to hold on to the top spot in our league. We’ll bestow the trophy officially in a few weeks, but it’s all over now but the crying. Speaking of crying, Alebrijes’ hopes for avoiding the bottom of our league officially rest on a further collapse by Ross County now that their 2021 is wrapped up.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana22172.181.60.6
Rosenborg BK367132.052.31.2
Emelec2610121.831.61.2
Grenoble2010171.491.21.2
Punjab FC–b7461.4711.20.9
Freiburg219191.4691.71.6
Minnesota United1310111.441.21.3
Legon Cities127111.431.21.0
FK Vozdovac1110131.261.11.4
Ross County115191.091.31.6
Alebrijes–b714121.061.21.6
Table Updated 11/10/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, November 10th

Thursday, November 11th

Friday, November 12th

Saturday, November 13th

Rosenborg BK v. Lyn Football [F]

Washington State Cougars v. Montana Grizzlies

FC St. Cyr v. Grenoble Foot [M–Cup]

Sunday, November 14th

SC Freiburg v. Werder Bremen [F]

Monday, November 15th

Tuesday, November 16th

Legon Cities FC v. Great Olympics

Week 27: Reliable are the Ladies!

Week 27: Reliable are the Ladies!

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Rosenborg BK 0 – 0 FK Haugesund [M]

To be fair, this game might have been a little dull, but it probably didn’t help that the women’s team was kicking off an hour later less than a block away. The guys were probably distracted.

Rosenborg BK 2 – 1 Klepp [F]

A late equalizer from Klepp nearly undid the Rosenborg winning streak and unravelled the home side’s dominance. But, cometh the hour, cometh the Utland, and Lisa-Marie (making a rare substitution appearance) netted the winner just moments later

CS Emelec 3 – 1 Carneras UPS [F]

Kerlly Corozo hit the back of the net twice on both a rebound and a header for an opportunistic brace that also gave Las Electricas a vital come from behind win. More of this please!

Minnesota United 2 – 2 San Jose Earthquakes

This was it, our first live sports outing since the fall of 2019. Your mom did not like the crowds, and I really only felt comfortable once I was seated and savoring the match. But it truly felt great to be surrounded by other people, screaming, shouting and singing when Brent Kallman scored from his impossible angle. (I also left very impressed with the dynamic Niko Hansen, stalwart Michael Boxall, and endlessly inventive Bebelo. We left before the Loons went ahead (and long before they were thwarted with a draw), but it was all worth it.

Legon Cities FC 1 – 1 Bechem United

Again the Royals attack gave their opposing goalie a chance to shine. Jonah Attaquye’s opener set the tone, but not the standard with a flurry of chances again going lacking. A late kerfuffle resulted in captain Michael Empedu being shown a red card for…uh…being animated? We’ll have to wait to see how his absence affects the end of the campaign.

Odd 2 – 2 Rosenborg BK [M]

In a not remotely shocking turn of events, Kristoffer Zachariassen was named man of the match and notched a goal in his return to the midfield. (It seems as though Alexander Tetty pushes the build up into the middle of the field but the Rosenborg strengths are in finishing wide crosses…so something’s gotta give.) A late equalizer keeps the boys’ winless spiral a spinning with top 4 side Kristiansund and an attempt to get into European competitions next on the docket.

Valerenga 1 – 2 Rosenborg BK [F]

This one was sweet. Having gone unbeaten last year but still losing the title on goal difference to Oslo’s Valerenga, this time the Trolljenta topped another great team and boosted themselves into sole possession of first place with their 7th straight win. It wasn’t easy, in fact it took a pair of late goals and a stunning Rugile Rulyte penalty save to save them from their first defeat since becoming part of the RBK family. But those late goals weren’t just redemptive, they were the last step to dominance.

News & Notes

Happy Times for Hasani

I mean c’mon, this is awesome.

New Staggie Squadies

With the Scottish Cup set to kick off this week, Ross County has done a little more work in replacing some of the long standing fixtures of the side. So it’s tioriadh to Gardyne, Vigurs, and Draper; Halo to Ross Callachan, Dominic Samuel, Jake Vokins and Alexander Robertson. Callachan and Samuel have multi-year deals so here’s hoping that they provide what the forerunners did. Meanwhile Vokins and Robertson have headed north on loan deals from Premier League clubs Southhampton and Manchester City….yes…League Champion, global legend coach Pep Guardiola…Man City…it’s probably a bit early to be banking on the young men to dominate all of Scotland, but we’re here for it.

Djitte’s New Dude (photo from Insider)

A Non-McConaughey reason to cheer for Austin FC

Look, we get it, Academy Award winner/bongo music enthusiast Matthew McConaughey is a bit of an attraction for the more indifferent soccer fans in the weirdest city in Texas. But, just a week after leaving Minnesota for the last time this season, the green and black of Austin announced the signing of Grenoble attacker and one of our local favorites Moussa Kailou Djitte. It has not been established if McConaughey himself spoke to Djitte, but we hope that Moussa greets him with “d’accord…d’accord…d’accord…” (ahh…weird French translations of meme’d McConaughey lines).

Player of the Week

Much as the softies in us want to give it to Hasani Dotson for proposing, you can’t deny a vital brace from veteran striker Kerlly Corozo to boost Emelec’s chances by beating the second place team in their division.

We salute you Kerlly!

Standings Update

It is a log jam in the middle of the table with Legon, Freiburg, Ross County, and Minnesota separated by 2 hundreths of a point per game (and in some cases, only by goal difference). The Staggies will kick off again soon while the Royals are about to draw the curtain on this campaign, while we’re officially half way through the year there’s still a lot to play for.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Rosenborg BK11442.02.01.0
Emelec16681.81.51.2
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Legon Cities10681.381.20.9
Freiburg–b124131.381.71.6
Ross County8291.371.31.5
Minnesota United4341.361.11.3
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Table Updated 7/7/21
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, July 7th

Colorado v. Minnesota United

Thursday, July 8th

Friday, July 9th

Saturday, July 10th

Forfar Athletic v. Ross County [Cup]

Lyn Fotball v. Rosenborg BK [F]

Rosenborg BK v. Kristiansund [M]

CS Emelec v. Tecnico Universtario [F]

Sunday, July 11th

Elmina Sharks v. Legon Cities FC

Monday, July 12th

Tuesday, July 13th

Week 21: Time’s Up in (Most of) Europe

Week 21: Time’s Up in (Most of) Europe

by scruffyrube ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Scores

Vozdovac 0 – 0 Javor

It wasn’t pretty. It wasn’t pleasant. But it did the job. The 0-0 draw kept the Dragons above the line (thanks in no small part to Rad Beograd falling behind and only managing an equalizer in their match–hence the anxious watching at the video’s end.). Vozdovac survived, and will still stand with the SuperLiga come the fall.

Emelec 2 – 0 Tolima [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Starting off the final run of Copa Sudamerica games at home, Emelec was full of optimism. When Tolima again stymied the attacking force through the first half there might have been some nerves. But Sebastian Rodriguez and Dixon Arroyo took charge in the midfield in the second half, creating repeated problems for their opponents. An own goal for the Colombians and a later strike from Joao Rojas put los bombillos on the precipice of the next round of South American action.

Rosenborg 3 – 2 Brann [M]

Kristoffer Zachariassen is special. I mean, he looks like Ted from Schitt’s Creek which is pretty special in the first place, and then he notches a hat trick to lead a comeback win at home. Seriously, this man is quite accomplished and, as the attacking corps still looks to find its feet, he’ll be vital to boosting the Trolls’ chances in the league.

Tolouse 3 – 0 Grenoble [M–Playoffs]

After all the build up, it all came undone for Grenoble. Though Brice Mableu saved an early penalty, Toulouse buried the rebound and cruised the rest of the way. Just wait till next year, and the very real hope that the Alpiners will be set to stake their claim on a top spot.

Rosenborg 2 – 0 Staebek [F]

The most dominant side in MacKenzie Cup 2020 is back in action, with Rosenborg hosting, and besting Staebek. After last year’s undefeated season, there’s reason to hope for the same this time around, and Lisa-Marie Utland started things out well with a great first goal of the campaign, and the whole team looked as fluid and integrated as if they were in mid season form.

Frankfurt 3 – 1 Freiburg [M]

A long shot for Europe got a lot longer when Freiburg ceded a penalty in the second half, and longer still, when they could only manage one goal in response. They were truly dead after Frankfurt’s last two goals won it. (Even though it wasn’t enough for them to jump into Champion’s league places). A solid, but unspectacular middle of the table finish for the Griffins. But the continued strength of Vincenzo Grifo and Christian Gunter plus the emergence of Baptiste Santamaria bodes well for the future.

Tecnico Universario 1 – 0 Emelec [F]

Las Electricas continue to search for their first goal and first win. Soon…it’s destiny.

Mushuc Runa 1 – 2 Emelec [M]

In the middle of their continental adventure, los bombillos made time to face off with the resurgent Runa. Throughout the whole time period, the replacement attack force of Sebastian Rodriguez and Alejandro Cabeza have bolstered the attack and kept them in great shape. It certainly helped that Mushuc Runa ended the match with an ugly clothesline in the box, but Emelec still had to convert

Hoffenheim 4 – 2 Freiburg [F]

Sigh…sorry Freiburg Frauen

Legon Cities FC 2 – 0 Aduana Stars

Legon had all the legs they needed for this pell mell race towards goal. Jonah Attaquye was a huge part of it with the first goal and multiple additional opportunities created to boost Legon with another win. (Sidebar, Thank you StarTimes for commentary…it’s much more fun than me trying to slow mo videos to spy player numbers)

Rosenborg 2 – 3 Molde [M]

Again Kristoffer Zachariassen had a beautiful header, but it was not enough to overcome some extra sloppy defending both at the start and the close of the match. Rosenborg continues to click on the attack..one the back foot…not so much (oh for a return of Tore Reginiussen).

Emelec 1 – 4 Talleres [M–Copa Sudamerica]

Coming in Emelec controlled their destiny. When Talleres took the lead within a quarter of an hour, it started to slip away, and before you knew it the team that had led the group from the first day was on the outside of the knock out round looking in and wondering what went wrong.

News & Notes

You Go Yogi

After saving Ross County from relegation, John Hughes step aside from his position at Ross County. Now the board will look for a new manager to boost the team up the table next year.

Bringing the Frank Pain

The Loons finally finished the transfer for Argentine winger Franco Frangapane (who you might remember from such contests as against Emelec a few weeks ago…but not this week, thankfully). The Loons’ offense has been real bad ineffective, so with him and Frenchman Adrien Hunou there’s hope that the second half of the season is more successful (or at least entertaining) than the first.

Player of the Week

We had hoped there would be some heroics in Belgrade to award, but aside from one critical tackle there just wasn’t much going on. Meanwhile, it’s just to easy to award Kristoffer Zachariassen especially when he Krist-offers so many goals! (Seriously, I’m really enoying watching Schitt’s Creek with your mom and these are almost too easy to write.)

Canadian Hearthrob or Norwegian Attacking Mid…does it matter?

Standings Update

Vozdovac, Grenoble, and the Freiburg men hit the break this week. As we hit the summer there will be several teams taking a break while national team competitions grab the spotlight. We’ll keep updating events as Rosenborg and Emelec try to track down the Grizzlies.

TeamWDLPPGGFAGAA
University of Montana–b9022.52.10.6
Emelec13461.871.51.1
Rosenborg BK3211.832.51.3
Grenoble Foot-b10781.481.21.1
Punjab FC–b7461.471.20.9
Ross County–b8291.371.31.5
Legon Cities FC7571.371.30.8
Freiburg114131.321.61.7
Alebrijes-b4761.121.42.1
FK Vozdovac–b5691.050.91.6
Minnesota United2041.000.81.7
Table Updated —
b–Team is between seasons

What’s Next

Wednesday, May 26th

Thursday, May 27th

Sandefjord v. Rosenborg [M]

Friday, May 28th

Saturday, May 29th

Rosenborg v. Kolbotn [F]

Real Salt Lake v. Minnesota United

Emelec v. LD Juvenil [F]

Sunday, May 30th

Ashanti Gold v. Legon Cities FC

Rosenborg v. Stabaek[M]

Emelec v. Independiente del Valle [M]

Monday, May 31st

Tuesday, June 1st