Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Cleats.
Minnows No More...
Mexico. Costa Rica. The United States. Panama. Honduras. These are household names in terms of being perceived as the footballing powers of CONCACAF, both in terms of the regions biannual tournament (the Gold Cup) and in representing the region at the World Cup. Yet, the waves of change are being made this year by teams not even ranked within 50 positions of FIFA’S world ranking system. Maybe it’s still early to call the recent results waves, rather they are ripples across the water of what we all know as the established hierarchy of CONCACAF. Regardless, those at the top and elsewhere might want to take notice, because even the biggest waves started as ripples.
By Sam Hazelwood7 years ago in Cleats
Barcelona About to Land Antoine Griezmann
As the calendar turns to July and the transfer season is in full swing, the three-year saga to whether or not Griezmann will leave Atlético Madrid has seemed to reach its climax as he is in the process for a move to FC Barcelona. This would obviously be one of the biggest signings in the window so far, trailing Hazard to Real Madrid, and probably the most interesting signing of the window. These two questions loom: What position will he play? What implications will his inclusion have on the rest of Barcelona's current squad?
By Space Zebra7 years ago in Cleats
USMNT: The New Era Begins...?
The game against Jamaica was set up to be a triumph for the US. This was supposed to be the showcase of how far the team had come since the appointment of Gregg Berhalter as head coach of the USMNT after the dismal period since the departure of Jurgen Klinsmann. Yet, the game fell flat and that’s all the commentators could seem to focus on for the full 90 minutes. As if implying that their expectations for the team were much higher. From my standpoint at the time of watching the game it seemed a little premature to have such high expectations for a team whose majority of its players don’t play together on a consistent basis and whose coach was newly appointed to the position only a few games ago. Combined with the fact that the player pool is strictly speaking weaker depth wise at every position than any generation before it. And whose best players, like many other high profile nations, were coming off of grueling overseas seasons. Some might suggest this is no excuse. That they are professionals and should be up to the challenge. True they are professionals but how many of us, the fans on the couch or in the stands, have ever played a season as long as most of their players endure? So I had to ask myself “Why did the pundits have such high expectations? And were they reasonable?” In a short word. No.
By Sam Hazelwood7 years ago in Cleats
Footballers Who Have Hidden Talents We Don't Know About
Many footballers are seen as brainless one-dimensional people with no other talents than when the ball is at their feet. Here are some examples of professional football players who have abilities beyond the green grass of the field.
By Football Nerd7 years ago in Cleats
The Earlybird Catches the... Winger?
The summer transfer window is like fine wine, it gets better with time, but also too much consumption early doors can make you feel a bit dizzy. Well, thankfully this year almost every club in England’s top flight has taken a teetotal approach to signing players this summer. But which clubs have snuck a sneaky shandy? And which ones are preparing to get completely bladdered in the next few weeks? I’ll fill you in with what’s happened so far and what could yet still happen.
By Craig House7 years ago in Cleats
Finding Value in Transfers
Much like NBA free agency, the summer transfer window in soccer provides the opportunity for clubs to change the dynamic of their team going into the next season. For fans, it provides a sense of hope that the changes made will bring positive results for their clubs going into the future. The buzz around the window also keeps the discussion and media coverage around club soccer going year-round. Unfortunately, too many clubs go about it the wrong way.
By Space Zebra7 years ago in Cleats
A Guide to Common Soccer Injuries
Soccer is one of the most popular sports all around the world. It is loved by people of all ages, and it requires very little equipment to be able to actually play it. Just like any other sport, there are bound to be some injuries. These injuries are usually classified as acute or cumulative. Acute injuries are traumatic, and are caused by a hit or fall, while cumulative injuries are from putting repetitive stress on a muscle, joint, or tendon. It is important to know what the beginning of these injuries look like, and be able to treat them before they become a life long problem. Here are a few of the most common injuries you will run into while playing soccer.
By Craig Middleton7 years ago in Cleats
Pride of the Country: USWNT
The United States Women's National Team is coming into the 2019 FIFA World Cup as the defending champions from four years ago, and the clear favorites to hoist the cup again this year. The main leadership of this team is all returning with even more experience than last time. With the spotlight focused on them, now more than ever, will they be able to secure what they believe is rightfully theirs.
By Hayden Fisher7 years ago in Cleats
