Man City, the biggest loser in the Argentina-Brazil crash
Last weekend, we saw 1 of the biggest World Cup qualifying clash when Argentina hosted Brazil in Rosario Central. A match between 2 coach, Dunga and Maradona, who has each captained their side during their player time and lead their team to win an honourable World Cup Medal in 1986 and 1994 respectively. Its also a battle between Kaka and Messi, key players of spanish biggest rival Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Before the match took place, Brazil was sitting top of the table with 1 point clear from Chile who is at 26 points after 14 matches. Argentina was 5 points behind Brazil, holding on to the last automatic qualifying spot in the group. Its was clear that Argentina will go for no other results than a wins, while on the other hand, a draw for Brazil is enough as they will comfortable maintain their chance of qualify for the World Cup.
Argentina eventually lost the match 1-3 to Brazil, with Luisao scored the opening goal for Brazil with a header at 23min, then Fabiano scored at the half hour mark, Datolo long shot goals gave the host some hope on the 65min, but within a minute, Fabiano added 1 more to make a brace with a fast counter attack and ended Argentina hope.
After the victory on Saturday, Brazil become the first South American team to book their place in the World Cup 2010. With Chile draw with Venezuela, Brazil now sitting comfortably at the top with 3 points lead and superior goal different. Fate is still not so cruel to Argentina, as Ecuador was beaten 2-0 by Colombia, and both of them are lying on the 5th and 6th spot with the same 20 points, just 2 points behind Argentina for the qualifying spot. Rumour and doubt start to arise in the football nation whether Maradona should leave his post.
But the biggest loser in this matches are not Argentina but Man City. While Man City preparing a showdown with Arsenal on this Saturday, 2 of their key players, Carlos Tevez and Robinho are back with an injury. Tevez suffured a twisted right knee while Robinho picked up a thigh injury during the match. Mark Hughes might have to rely on Bellamy and Benjani to lead the attack against Arsenal now. Man City are 1 of the only 3 teams which still maintaining all wins straights, and the only team which haven’t concede any goals yet. A victory for Man City in the coming match will greatly increase their chance on finishing in the top 4.
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