gaz12321 - Comments

#311638 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png

World Cup Qualifiers



Injuries

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/IIbz9vL7oEFS2psImtmjOkZ1CcSGz4zxL5oJF67m.png


First choice right back Cotugno is unavailable for selection through injury, Gomez also misses out but that makes little difference with him never really likely to feature. What this doesn't mention is that midfield man Bentancur misses out through injury, which is a huge blow for us.


Matchday 5

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/GIvAx4YaGJicLXjifRiXnVeM9wfT5ipBloN3fOyR.png


Dos Santos took Cotugno's place at right back, Garcia was given the nod at left back ahead of Olaza who hasn't been getting football at club level of late and Poyet filled in for Bentancur allowing Rossi a bit more freedom as Poyet took the ball winner role. We made our typical fast start to the match and took just 3 minutes to take the lead, De Arrascaeta got free down the left to cross from the byline and find Rolan at the far post in acres of space to tap home for 1-0, the rest of the first half was fairly even but with very little action until Torreira doubled our lead in stoppage time, Rolan the provider this time as he got into the area and pulled it back to Torreira who neatly finished the move off and made it 2-0. De Arrascaeta had picked up a knock and came off and Matias Cardozo made his first appearance since I came in as coach, the young left winger provided a telling impact as well in the 69th minute he beat the full back and fizzed in a dangerous cross, Felix Diaz had to get something on it but facing his own goal he only managed to direct it in to the net and make it 3-0, our defence had been solid all game and remained the same to keep a clean sheet and maintain our 3 goal advantage with relative ease.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/fIzDCDtWxseoZEgzuFC2uRUivNXtM9fU7Beytx89.png


Argentina were almost embarrassed on their own turf by little Paraguay but Sarue rescued a draw with 10 minutes to go, Brazil earned a comfortable win over Bolivia, Chile's late goal ensured a 2-2 draw against Ecuador and finally Venezuela held out for a 0-0 draw at home to Colombia.


More Injuries

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/g1YaQsxn2U73mc64GeS0rmZdm05UF0CLfJXLGN1t.png
https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/TPMzAWQFubxza2VYoKNE6xVVPAC8d2bxRrqWXGVO.png
http://i.imgur.com/aGqxqXu.png?1


With Cotugno & Bentancur already missing we now lose De Arrascaeta, Poyet & worst of all Gimenez!! Great timing as well as we head towards a trip to Brazil, thanks FM


Matchday 6

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8cQ1eh7sjq5IF5bHoYDOvHNBI2KcDmEzu5CID2Tw.png


Lemos deputises for Gimenez, Arignon comes in for De Arrascaeta to allow our defensive shape to come in to force seeing Rolan play just behind Suarez, youngster Alfredo Franco of Inter makes just his 2nd international appearance in place of the injured Poyet who was covering the also injured Bentancur!! Backs against the wall doesn't describe this game enough, we had to fear the worst on 12 minutes when Glauber threaded a defence splitting pass to Ewerton Leandro who collected and finished with aplomb, despite Brazil's domination we were standing firm and restricting them in the main to long range efforts but at the same time showing nothing at all going forward, I made changes on the hour mark to try and get us involved more taking off inexperienced Alfredo and replacing Suarez with Fernandez to try and give us more energy especially when pressing their defence but this made little difference as Brazil continue to dominate the game. With 15 minutes to go and one off target shot all we had to show so far I had to switch formations taking off Arigon for winger Olivera and minutes later it paid off; Olivera was tripped midway in to Brazil's half on the left, Torreira looped a fantastic ball to the far post and Lemos' header back across goal was headed home by Carrera for a completely undeserved equaliser! The glee was short lived though as Garcia failed to clear the ball following a scramble mis-kicking the ball to Danilo who fired home from 18 yards to give Brazil a deserved win! Our game plan was so close to being perfectly executed!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/kMTHcmSzkh3RwOS3Ywhxunc1t0BtJFcX17LNhprY.png


Bolivia comfortably beaten again this time 3-0 by Colombia, Ecuador's early goal was enough to see off Venezuela 1-0, Argentina also won 1-0 with a late strike away to Peru and a bore draw was played out between Paraguay & Chile.


Table

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/BiuORTfR57EzKsEXVZXLubS5XeZ2MOR0hMXXQax0.png


A third of the way through the qualifiers and we are in the top 4 but things are very tight, Brazil lead the way on 13 points from Argentina on 12 then Chile on 11, we are on 10 and Ecuador just behind on 9 in the play off spot. Argentina are next up for us but hopefully once that's out the way we can push on with Bolivia & Venezuela following to conclude the first set of games.


Rankings

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/u69lgIasQcSHcUiUhResRRiW645rCqOSeNxw3Vhz.png


We have moved up another place edging closer to a return to the top 6 that we reached following the Copa America, Brazil have returned to the top.


Thoughts


As much as i'm enjoying being at Uruguay i'm ready to move back into club football, unfortunately my laptop doesn't allow me this far into a save to load too many leagues without pretty much coming to a stop so options are limited, literally nothing has come up so far! I only have 2 nations loaded.
#311619 Defenders & Closing Down
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
what you want is to go into player instructions for your centre backs and set them to close down much less and stick to position. I noticed a big difference .


I did that and it made no difference, I think my lack of a natural defensive minded midfielder was leaving too much space to exploit between defence and midfield which was forcing defenders out of position. Not that it matters now that i've left the club.
#311618 Saving Aston Villa!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Doesn't sound like the club pays much attention to the finances in terms of budgets set, surprised you've not fallen foul of FFP regs yet haha
#311617 Blackburn Rovers Road To Glory
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Some great signings there mate money well spent, Guillavogui & Aranguiz could be a fantastic pairing in midfield both excellent although with Frei & Loftus-Cheik as well you're well stocked in there, Moreno should be a good buy, clinical finisher guaranteed to get you goals.
#311468 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Doing very well with Uruguay man, superb run in the Copa America!


Thanks Dan, Copa America was enjoyable and we done well but the draw was kind to us for sure.
#311451 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png

World Cup Qualifiers



Matchday 3

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HYsnQ7LwSd2zh7fid37Fvay4ZELFlPGF7Q6AOOUa.png


We named what has become the first choice xi for our trip to Ecuador but we failed to really get going at any point, there's not really much to report at all about this one it was a dull game from start to finish, we were on top in the first half but failed to test the keeper and went in at 0-0. Ecuador come flying out in the second half but their finishing was shoddy to say the least but they were exposing our frailties and I made the decision after an hour to switch to a more reserved tactic shortly after Fernandez had come on for Suarez I brought on Poyet for De Arrascaeta and switched to the 4-1-3-1-1 tactic, this helped us to put Ecuador's fire out and we began to control the game again but our attacking players just seemed to have run out of ideas and the game fizzled out in to a bore draw.


Matchday 4

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SzXZPoN4ibr4LONGOkC0tdgebm5Bs8XEtk3Ld3Gu.png


One change to the lineup for this game with Suarez struggling for fitness he dropped to the bench which saw Rolan move up to play the striker role to allow Olivera a chance on the wing, the game was very open and although we were controlling possession Colombia were looking dangerous, we made the breakthrough after half an hour though as Olivera progress into the area before being brought down by Hernandez for a penalty, Cotugno stepped up and made no mistake to make it 1-0. The lead lasted just 8 minutes though as Borre flicked on a long ball into the path of Quintero who fired a shot into the top corner to level it up before the break. Bentancur was withdrawn at half time due to a knock with Poyet coming on for him and I wasn't impressed with Rolan through the middle so Olivera was sacrificed for Fernandez who went up top and Rolan reverted to the right wing, a move that paid off when he collected a pass from Torreira and beat two men before scoring from an almost impossible angle with a fierce strike putting us back in front. Suarez came off the bench to wrap things up with 10 minutes left as he converted a right wing cross from Cotugno to make it 3-1, his 102nd goal for the country.


Table

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Gv0QV3uwRaZRQLkXJgmr7KRkwmF6v6PZ1VIZ3yuQ.png


Back to back defeats for Peru sees them move to 5th and Chile take top spot on 9 points from 4 games, just ahead of Argentina who are unbeaten on 8 points, Brazil and us make up the qualification places joint on 7 points.


Rankings

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/A2HDPNRUiuq2DR9lOCsxCUrNh0TZPY6q9ws1Zajh.png


Back up to 8th, Spain have moved above Brazil as the top ranked side.


Thoughts


We have no matches now for 4 months so i'll be keeping an eye on the job front closely, I quite fancy Chile for my next club but missed the chance to apply for Universidad de Chile as their vacancy came and went during the Copa America, i'd quite like to manage them, anything could happen I guess.
#311424 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png

World Cup Qualifiers


So the Qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup starts here, the South American Qualifiers consist of 10 teams each playing each other twice, the top 4 qualify for the World Cup and 5th place heads in to the Play Off. Here we go...


Matchday 1


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/eIyCgafX16bEQAYFIXKOz8pPvfJDJgEISzG8UN2c.png


We had to contend without left back Olaza and central midfielder Julio Rossi who were both missing through suspension and were replaced by Martin Garcia & Federico Arigon respectively, we started this match in similar fashion to all of our recent games flying out of the traps and applying pressure from the off, we scored in the 6th minute when Rolan intercepted a pass 30 yards from goal before driving past the defender and slamming home from close range giving the keeper no chance. Former Man Utd striker Henriquez made it 1-1 before the break heading home a Contreras cross, we almost got back in front before half time but Torreira's effort cannoned back off the post. 10 minutes into the second half Suarez was denied claims for a penalty and immediately Chile broke away and took the lead through Guerra with a cheeky close range finish beyond Rochet after a lapse in concentration from Carrera, who was then replaced by Lemos and De Arrascaeta was replaced by Olivera as we looked to get back into the game. Things got worse on 63 minutes when young Arigon flew in two footed at Salinas and earned himself a deserved red card leaving us well in the lurch, I took a gamble to leave our wingers on instead of compacting the midfield and ti backfired as Henriquez collected a Guerra pass to slot home Chile's 3rd, just 4 minutes later and it was 4-1 with Cabral getting in on the act! We managed to restore a little pride as Olivera crossed for Suarez to head home and make it 4-2 but it was too late and we were resigned to a defeat.



Matchday 2


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SFBXl9oQ55oieRUbE0KGa5mvUAxjX6D2RYERVDW2.png


Rossi returned from suspension to replace the now suspended Arigon in midfield, Gimenez was struggling for fitness so started on the bench with Diego Polenta making his first appearance since I joined as coach. Once again we were quickly in to our stride and it took just 7 minutes to get the scoring underway, Rolan once again the creator as he crossed for De Arrascaeta to score at the far post, 5 minutes later and Suarez doubled our advantage collecting a pass from Bentancur thanks to a defensive slip and firing into the bottom corner, Paraguay put themselves back in the game in just the 18th minute when Valdez climbed above Julio Rossi to head home a corner from Villalbe and make it 2-1. Gimenez replace Polenta at half time to try and steady the defence but it didn't work as Diaz weighted a perfect pass for Riquelme who calmly finished to level the game up despite our dominance, in the 66th minute I threw on some fresh legs up top with Suarez tiring Fernandez was introduce and took just 7 minutes to make the vital impact racing on to a Torreira through ball to fire beyond the dive of Limenza and secure a deserved win for Uruguay!


Table


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zwKloFEnx9jA1Ut97m7Esp8Bv6D3lrJ1elsrQlRq.png


Peru & Chile are the early leaders both notching back to back wins, Argentina sit 3rd on 4 points and above a pack of 4 teams on 3 points which is us alongside Brazil, Bolivia & Ecuador.


Rankings


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/i8FN2NwEhVmJ4fwPG7qc9JGrB4iJsXaI0B1vplXU.png
#311412 From The Bottom To The Top - Manchester United The Story Continues !!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Great work with Besiktas but looks like a good move to Man Utd, even if they are struggling right now it's a massive club. Good luck
#311399 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png

International Friendlies



https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/LrZ057xmqdZrPRDiAaOzjWXEVdSoQEMqwg3cw9az.png


The 2 friendlies would give me a chance to get a few more players involved and see what they can do, Mauricio Lemos came in for Carrero at center back and youngster Arigon was given a start as our ball winning midfielder with Torreira making way, I didn't want to make too many changes as I expected a tougher match in the first game than we would get from Panama who are next up. We flew out of the blocks and after a Rolan shot was blocked it fell to De Arrascaeta who found right back Cotugno getting forward who took a touch then found the corner of the net, 1-0 after 5 minutes. The match was very evenly contested and the first half played out in dull fashion, I was forced to make 3 subs at half time due to club instructions which saw Gimenez replaced by 19 year old Reymundez making his debut, Rossi went off for Torreira and Suarez for Fernandez. We again flew out of the blocks with young striker Fernandez timing his run perfectly to head home a Rolan cross, Slovenia were still in the game though and showed us that in the 72nd minute when their right winger got in behind Olaza and squared for Lotric to tap home for 2-1, we extended our lead back to 2 straight away when Fernandez's trickery ended in a trip in the area and Cotugno stepped up to smash home his 2nd of the game from the spot. As Slovenia piled forward in search of a 2nd goal we incisively countered with Rolan leading the charge the winger switched it left to De Arrascaeta and continued hi run to get on the end of a through ball and fizz a low drive beyond the keeper to wrap up an emphatic win, a very pleasing performance.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9jHvlyoOZ4McL7dK0au1lTbJ5qBqUPiWZLppIcMb.png


Bad news ahead of the next friendly, Bentancur ruled out with injury for 3 weeks but will at least be back in time for the first qualifiers.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0T9U5mHgYUF7U11Qs8TDI1bgUYKYC7awh8A6j4ht.png


Reymundez came in to replace Lemos for his first full cap, Dos Santos replaced Olaza at left back, Poyet in for injured Bentancur and Torreira returns in place of Rossi, Fagundez starts on the left with De Arrascaeta making way and Fernandez starts up top in place of Suarez. We picked up the kind of scoreline we would expected but in a strange manner, despite sending the team out to attack Panama controlled possession but we enjoyed the noteworthy attacking play, Rolan & Fernandez linking up fantastically. We flew out of the traps again with Fernandez profiting from great work by Rolan down the right who supplied a measured cross for Fernandez to tap in at the near post, the same combination provided the second goal with what was pretty much a carbon copy of the first, Rolan continued his creative masterclass when he found Fagundez in space around 12 yards out who slotted home to make it 3-0. The second half was much quieter with only 1 real noteworthy bit of play that saw Rolan deservedly get among the goals, the flying winger raced on to a Fernandez pass and arrowed a finish across the keeper and in at the far post to make it 4-0, what a sensational performance from Rolan who is finally hitting the form I expected of him when I arrived.
#311390 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Thanks for the comments guys, CA Final was a shame but it was a tactical error that left us vulnerable. I'm quite enjoying my time with Uruguay so won't accept a club job again until it's something that really jumps out at me.
#311198 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png http://i.imgur.com/aSvL04o.jpg

Copa America 2023 Final



https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/0iMSvqQ61bPcKwo6VpOwS2ftX3boUYheHYQX2e2G.png


A bridge too far for plucky Uruguay, and I accept much of the blame for the tactics, in some weird logic I decided to maintain the tactics that saw us through to the final despite the fact we'd faced a fairly 'easy' run certainly with nowhere near Argentina's quality, and we were punished! Argentina started quickly and from a 6th minute corner Luis Movio climbed above Carrera to power a header in and make it 1-0, we were struggling to get out of our half and after just 22 minutes the game was realistically out of reach, Rodriguez threaded the ball through for the pacey Dybala who had plenty of time to steady himself and beat Rochet for 2-0, things got worse when De Arrascaeta had to come off through injury, I should have used this as an opportunity to change tactics but naively continued with by bringing on Rolan, Argentina continued to dominate and Correa drove forward into the area but was roced wide by Carrrera who then mistimed a challenge and gave away a penalty, Vietto slammed it home for 3-0! I finally bit the bullet at half time and opted for damage limitation bringing off Olivera and slotting Arigon into defensive midfield, our second half performance was superb as we controlled the play, we got a glimmer of hope 3 minutes into the second half when Rossi got on the end of a Suarez pass to make it 3-1 but despite our improved performance there was no coming back from it! I can't help but kick myself, what was I thinking??


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/U1j4twbc28t13Ib9eQwAFYhPBodpi2C71TNiiq2c.png


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8Bi121puzzgdzdypjCaCK1Kpfnx1gzUUDEpkKX8z.png


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Thoughts


We achieved more than expected regardless of a bit of fortune with the run to the final but ultimately came up short, it has been an enjoyable tournament though and has served it's purpose as our performances here has increased my reputation a fair bit and hopefully will put me in a good position for a decent move to a club, I will be remaining with Uruguay until the right move comes up. There's a lot of quality in this squad especially in the midfield and I would be tempted to continue with them without looking for a club but there's no tournament for 3 years if we qualify for the World Cup.
#311196 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png http://i.imgur.com/aSvL04o.jpg

Copa America 2023 Finals


Quarter Finals

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Q5SXPVbfctw7a3so7cMbFrJ5WuTWDUIcVdvU3jFh.png


We were once again unchanged thanks to Olivera's njury just being a knock, although Rolan's performance did give me something to think about. We made a very bright start to the match applying pressure from the off but it took until the 22nd minute to make it pay, some intricate build up play ended with Bentancur teeing up Torreira who found the bottom corner with a fierce strike, Peru were showing no signs of attacking and seemed content to let us keep applying pressure. We finally doubled our advantage in the second half when right back Cotugno curled an early cross in for Suarez who headed in at the near post from around 6 yards out, things got worse for Peru minutes later when Olivera cut in to the area from the right flank and was tripped by Alexis Cossio which saw the ref immediately point to the spot and issue the Peru man his second yellow, Suarez stepped up to trickle the penalty straight down the middle as Gallese dived to his left, 3-0 and Suarez netting his 4th of the tournament so far. Things were so comfortable for us then, and clearly too comfortable as we let our concentration slip and in the 89th minute Sergio Pena intercepted a pass from sub Dos Santos and raced through to slot past Rochet. It was too little too late for Peru but still they had enough time to give us a scare with what proved to be the last kick of the game, Diego Torres collected the ball around 30 yards and hit a hopeful shot that Rochet should have saved but he didn't get enough on it and saw it go in off the post. A very sloppy finish to the match but progress nonetheless.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HkVn5P6zaFeBhzouRqaAd02GkUH4SNTPiI1rZZgY.png


As expected there were comfortable wins for Brazil and Argentina, the former winning 3-0 over Honduras B and Argentina seeing off Bolivia 2-0. The final match of this stage saw hosts Ecuador book their place in the Semi Finals with a thrilling 3-2 win over Chile.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/2vU3A4IZjrLxm9spuDNtdWN7q2Nl4tEE1HEy9h8Q.png


So we will face the hosts Ecuador who beat us 2-1 in a friendly just before the tournament begun, Argentina & Brazil will compete in the other Semi Final.


Semi Finals

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/XisDuZP7doLvECtfTbe8MkB11TZpCe5Owx0dC4aL.png


Performances have been good so we remain unchanged as we face Ecuador, we dominated this even more than we did against Peru but couldn't find a way through and then out of nowhere Sandaval got up to flick on a clearance and Enner Valencia raced through and fired the hosts in to the lead, unbelievable! We continued to lay siege to their goal but seemed to be lacking belief in the final third, we started the second half as we ended the first and finally got our rewards, Bentancur was brought down in the area and Cotugno stepped up and smashed the ball in the top corner to make it 1-1 with over half an hour to play. It was real backs to the wall stuff for Ecuador but with Luis Suarez having an off day we were struggling to find the net, I was reluctant to take him off though as we needed a goal, which didn't come and it ended 1-1, into penalties ... Ecuador took first and Rochet saved, Cotougno found the other top corner this time and made it 1-0, both the 2nd penalties were scored then Rochet made another save to put us in control but Rolan then stepped up and smacked his off the bar, still 2-1! Valencia scored for Ecuador then Poyet matched him to make it 3-2, Ecuador had to score but Rochet was the hero for us with his 3rd save from 5 penalties, incredible!! Uruguay are through to the Final!!


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/lo5xIPlMYsR99jjlMIIdEBne8M5dAK5ILIsvwfuN.png


Argentina would be our opponents as they edged out Brazil 2-1 in the other Semi Final.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/FcoI7vEtacOlXx22Wx7tCTEOvojVvgDtVryMdh3i.png


Brazil comfortably won the third placed playoff 3-1 over Ecuador as the world to warm things up nicely for the final...
#311162 Blackburn Rovers Road To Glory
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Great season that nice one! Looking forward to seeing what players come in to strengthen ready for Europe.
#311160 What Are You Listening To?
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Panic! At the Disco - Death of a Bachelor ... no song in particular just the whole album, loving it!
#311159 Players wanting first team football problem
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
It's dreadful, really needs to be looked at by SI there are so many flaws with players complaining it's unreal, the 2 mentioned above being the main offenders as well as players requesting a transfer the day after the window closes!!
#311158 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png http://i.imgur.com/aSvL04o.jpg

Copa America 2023 Group Stage



Matchday 1

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/s79ts5CWpI4s0Jm3pgZ0r8opTs9BSdsawFedARGc.png


We switched to our more cautious tactic to counter the talent in Brazil's ranks which saw Diego Poyet come in to play just in front of the back 4, De Arrascaeta moves inside to play just behind Suarez. This worked perfectly as we battled through a very tight game with few clear chances at either end. Half time came and went still without a goal, a sub made in the 67th minute where I brought on Garcia at left back went against us as he failed to close down Brazil's right back Tadeu who supplied a sensational cross for sub Ferreira to nod home at the back post, 1-0 to Brazil! This sparked the game into life, we were straight on the attack looking to get back into it, Rossi was brought down by Marquinhos around 30 yards from goal which saw the defender receive his second yellow card, I immediately replaced Poyet with Rolan and changed to an attacking mentality, Suarez then stepped up and smashed the free kick into the top corner to make it 1-1! Fantastic strike! We controlled the game from then with a man advantage but couldn't capitalise on it and had to settle for the draw, not that i'm complaining.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/PsjMphdOXSKRpg7J8z9awxh3r4vCQWuVo9HmIbtZ.png


Group A - Hosts Ecuador opened the tournament disappointingly drawing 1-1 with Honduras B, Peru then smashed Venezuela 3-0.

Group B - Wins for Argentina & Chile in what is without doubt the toughest group this year, Argentina recorded a 3-2 win over Paraguay while Chile saw off Colombia with a 2-1 win.

Group C - We drew with Brazil and Bolivia took the spoils in the other game beating Mexico B 2-1.


Matchday 2

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DhbqTXVekkNDRSHYebzWGKwVG8OPT4dg5b2E5gkW.png


Alvaro Olivera came in to replace Poyet as we adapted to our more attacking style of play, the performance here was fantastic but it took a while to get the first goal, we dominated the first half with Bolivia creating nothing but we just couldn't find the net, I encouraged the lads at half time saying that the result would come if they keep this up and minutes after the restart De Arrascaeta had us in front, sliding in at the far post to convert Olivera's cross and open the scoring. Shortly after that Suarez was on target again, receiving the ball from Julio Rossi he worked a yard of space and fired beyond Viscarra in the Bolivia goal. Bolivia had to come out and have a go which they did but they never really looked like getting past Gimenez and co at the back, special mention as well for MotM Bentancur who absolutely ran the show in the midfield, a very pleasing performance.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SzuzXRvkUkk6s3GEirdp0NSRD6bA7G1XlaZ8YxI6.png


Group A - Peru secured qualification with a 2-0 win over Honduras B while hosts Ecuador recorded a single goal victory over Venezuela to put themselves in a good position to progress.

Group B - Both games in this group ended 1-1, with Argentina held by Colombia & Chile drawing with Paraguay leaving the group fairly open with Argentina facing Chile in the final game.

Group C - Our 2-0 win over Bolivia puts us in good shape on 4 points, Brazil recorded a 3-0 win over Mexico B meaning that we require only a draw in the final game for guaranteed qualification.


Matchday 3

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7Uqf8SqrDKEkm1whly03SVnr3zPLmwOjfAOd4Ono.png


An unchanged xi for Matchday 3 against Mexico B, another game where we failed to take our chances in the first hal but were again very solid at the back and went in at the break 0-0, the only incident of note being an injury to Olivera which saw him withdrawn as a precaution and Rolan came on for him. Early in the second half that sub made a telling impact, Rolan got beyond the full back to the byline and fizzed the ball across the 6 yard box to the onrushing De Arrascaeta who netted for the second game running, this proved to be the only goal of the game as we comfortably saw out the remainder of the match to secure a 1-0 win. Once again Bentancur was a controlling force in the midfield and rightfully claimed MotM.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/piBYUHyEOMtecqiTC9oUhAqDhFGKTt88rnJ6hqLs.png


Group A - Peru & Ecuador played out a 1-1 draw which was satisfactory for both as it ensured both were through, Honduras B picked up a narrow win over Venezuela and managed to reach the Quarter Final as one of the two best third place finishers.

Group B - Argentina claimed a 2-1 win over Chile to finish top and the latter held on to second courtesy of a draw between Colombia & Paraguay that saw them both eliminated from the tournament.

Group C - Brazil hammered Bolivia 5-0 to ensure they won the group on goal difference over us with both sides on 7 points, despite the hammering Bolivia's win over Mexico B in the opening game was enough to see them through to the Quarter Finals.


Quarter Final Draw

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ZhWy3Cek5n2JMDlLmeMbb19vCFQ4sCLQDdnpzRBX.png

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8MUhyVjEQUmh6GKeBxCeud5BUWivs6fvxHWimZ8J.png


We were drawn against Group A winners Peru and while it could have been worse there is no doubt it could have been better too, a potentially tricky tie that we will be expected to win but we will have to be cautious. Brazil shouldn't have any issues up against Honduras B and the same can be said for Argentina who will face Bolivia, the hosts Ecuador will face Chile in what should be a tight encounter with not much to separate the two sides
#310940 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png http://i.imgur.com/aSvL04o.jpg

Copa America 2023 Build Up



The Squad

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/xJyZPdrpbNGqCy50yJLeGMUATYXda6lJ2YgljgtI.png
https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/PHcGjqgIexVXqaiSW0sJZfKa2zOfZOSQ6371vIqa.png


Goalkeepers - There's not much to choose between Marcelo Lima & Sergio Rochet, the latter has been in better form in club football and with the retirement of Muslera the spot is up for grabs for either of these guys to take control of, third choice keeper Facundo Silva is unlikely to see any game time to be honest. I have given Lima a couple of games so will see what Rochet can do in the upcoming friendlies.

Defenders - We will be using a flat back 4, which pretty much picks itself at the moment, at right back Guillermo Cotugno has the beating of Dos Santos, left back currently Lucas Olaza is the choice but Martin Garcia can certainly push for a place as he recovers from an injury, center back pairing of Gimenez & Carrera is unlikely to change with Lemos & Mello quite a bit behind them in terms of quality, although Carrera isn't playing regularly at Lyon which may hinder his international chances.

Midfielders - More often than not I will be playing with 3 central midfielders, we have a number of world class playmakers such as Man City's Rodrigo Bentancur, who looks the pick of the bunch but Torreira and Rossi also have enormous quality and the latter will likely play the ball winning role. Dieog Poyet of West Ham & Real Madrid youngster Arigon will provide competition. In the wide areas we have Rolan & Oliveira competing on the right and despite Rolan's big reputation Independiente's Olivera is looking more likely to feature, on the left the natural option is Fiorentina's de Arrascaeta although Fagundez has played well in the time he has played so far, Nicolas Lopez is very versatile as well giving another option in wide areas.

Attackers - 36 year old Luis Suarez is the captain and still the main man despite his advancing years, he has competition from Real Madrid wonderkid Carlos Fernandez and a number of our wide players can also play through the middle so there are plenty of options for change if needed.


Key Players

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/YdEZeubhIIK7QvGR0nvnz75inoeGeOh45aAld69Y.png


Atletico's Jose Gimenez is without doubt one of the best central defenders in the world, he's been in fine form in La Liga and also performed admirably for the country as always, so i'll be looking for him to be a rock at the back for us for many years to come.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ABfEZO8HmLdRYdAQUlToq61W3LmK80BTezWDi0xV.png


Rodrigo Bentancur of Man City is an absolutely incredible talent, i'll be looking to deploy him as part of a midfield trio to give him freedom to create at will, his passing, vision, technique and general skill is unbelievable and he will play a vital part of any potential success we could have, he's shown good form for his club and already has 73 caps to his name at just 25 years of age.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/J2voEDQ9Y8nRu25o1GYu9SEOCqsQ5zhzfWCKYdCK.png


Finally the immortal Luis Suarez! Not even his advancing years can stop this guy, his attributes are still insane and he continues to bang in goals for Barcelona with 30 in 49 games this season, although he has recently announced he is to retire from club football at the end of this season he has stated he will continue to make himself available for his country, which I thought was strange. His strike against South Africa was his 100th goal for his country in 160 appearances, he will never be forgotten!

So those 3 are the spine of my side and the players i'm looking to build around, which is not to regard some of the other quality players we have just these 3 are insanely talented.


Tactics

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/wFY4s34qTFCDUDZvstAJp240vZE5QUHjmVcWH8dT.png


This will be my primary tactic to start with, my favourite 4-3-3, high tempo possession based football and a very in your face attitude with a high pressing mentality. Ignore the players they are just there for illustration purposes.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SoTk8A6Kk8VE1NGDAF3P0pPkOUY8N9G1u8mU3INc.png


This will be used for games where we can't expect to control the game, we will look to remain solid and flood the midfield, also to slow the game down when we are in possession but counter attack when the opportunity arises. This kind of suits our players as we have a number of quality central midfielders.


Warm Up Games

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/dlAu6NG2Um2CLWgWIOpF5hFhDMC9DGSVMYPmXaW5.png


Another disappointing result although the performance wasn't terrible and we didn't deserve to lose but we were beaten 2-1 by Ecuador. De Arrascaeta came back into the side on the left and chances were handed to 2 Real Madrid youngsters, Federico Arigon replaced Julio Rossi as the ball winner and Carlos Fernandez was given a run out up front in place of Suarez. Ecuador took the lead midway through the first half as Intriago received the ball back from Cazeres and fired a shot into the bottom corner from 25 yards. 3 changes were made at half time as I looked for an improvement, and things did pick up but we fell further behind against the run of play when Intriago returned the favour for Cazeres sliding a through ball for the latter to slot home and make it 2-0. One of our half time subs Olivera managed to grab a goal for us finishing after a neat one-two with Suarez but we were unable to get level and fell to a 2-1 defeat.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9xhvaeNQgrsQIs7KYJy3jf1ldzKj9HQ4Op1d1seZ.png

A really good test for us as we hosted Argentina, the change of tactic saw Diego Poyet and Nicolas Lopez come in to the side, Julio Rossi & Luis Suarez were also restored to the starting lineup. Using our narrower formation we managed to contain them for the first half although they had a few chances and we created nothing, we came out brighter in the second half but as we started to grow into it we were hit with a sucker punch as Mammana head a far post corner across the face of the goal for defensive partner Staricco to head home. Things turned worse minutes later as Correa drove at the defence and was tripped by Dario Carrera, the ref pointed to the spot, Icardi stepped up but was denied by Rochet flying to his left to make an excellent save! With the game drawing to a close De Arrascaeta who had come on for Lopez raced through to meet a pass from Rossi and coolly stroked the ball in at the near post to rescue a draw, a very credible result!


Copa America Group

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/1kKNDdAdUmFXKUk3MKa568VxXR8yeZa799buwnOY.png


We've been drawn against Brazil, Mexico B & Bolivia, the top 2 go through to the quarter finals along with the 2 best performing 3rd place finishers from the 3 groups, so it should be straight forward to booka place in the Quarter Final. Mexico B field a side of entirely locally based players and refuse to play anyone who competes outside of the country at club level in the Copa America.
#310914 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Still enjoying this mate, well done on the FA Cup result. will be interesting to see where you head next


Thanks Dan, it's taken an unexpected twist but i'm looking forward to this. My plans are to take a club job either in Uruguay or Chile, but i'm tempted to continue with the national team, see how things go.
#310912 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
The Next Adventure


http://sortitoutsi.net/flags/uru.png
Uruguay

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/lJ1mMTwFYdRI0fJj575C3u5SU6kIz57O7sYAn1iG.png



A hugely unexpected move for me, i've been handed the chance to manage the Uruguayan national team, the chance to work with players like Luis Suarez what a huge move! With the Copa America 2023 approaching shortly in Ecuador it's an opportunity to enhance my reputation within South America which is likely to be my next destination in terms of club management, my previous stint at international management didn't go too well which is why I have chosen to leave Hangzhou rather than continue managing club and country, chance to properly focus on the nation that are currently ranked 11th in the world.


Expectations

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UqzEU5cLpW0KVJDBYQEJrrIDgMgF96t34fPchNUO.png


The FA expect us to reach the Semi Finals and so do I, obviously this will depend on avoiding the likes of Argentina & Brazil in the Quarter Finals if we get there though, if not it will be tricky.


Friendlies


So I start my reign as Uruguay coach with a trip to Italy before we receive a visit from South Africa, i've not gone into detail with the squad and tactics just yet as I wanted to use the first 2 games to get a feel for things, the next update will be more detailed as we prepare for the Copa America.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/B6md0RvB0HE60UiLba4uWdYja3CAYKbEaOXIP90n.png


Oh, that didn't got to plan! 3-0 hugely flattered the hosts from a fairly even game but they took their chances and we didn't even manage to test the keeper despite having chances! Biggest concern from what I have available to me is the lack of a natural ball winner although I do have players who can fairly comfortably play that role. Italy started brightly and got their reward when midfielder Marcelo Saia deliciously curled a 20 yard effort beyond the reach of Lima to make it 1-0, we were looking to have steady the tide until Emilio Taurone exploded into action just before half time, the Bayern Munich striker raced clear of Dario Carrera to slot home a second on 41 minutes and was then in the right place at the right time on the stroke of half time to convert a cross from Felicioli and make it 3-0. I reverted to a more reserved tactic in the second half to try and nulify the threat from Taurone even though he had already done the damage, it did at least limit the score to 3 and actually saw us enjoy the better of the remainder of the game, creating numerous chances but it seemed that our attackers forgot their shooting boots. A very disappointing result but the performance wasn't terrible.


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/YF3CPVSJmElwilXnYKKJsPACwyPWAb2tQqftfa7a.png


2 changes to the line up as we hosted South Africa in game 2, I wasn't impressed with the quality of the wing play against Italy so decided to rotate things, Rolan of Benfica made way for Diego Fagundez on the right and Arrascaeta was replaced by Laxait. We dominated the first half of the game with South Africa camped in their own half, but we struggled to find the net again with our attackers misfiring, after a few choice words at half time we came out firing and 5 minutes into it veteran Luis Suarez found the net getting across the defender at the near post to finish a right wing cross from Fagundez, Suarez then returned the favour shortly after squaring to Fagundez in the area who slid the ball under the on rushing Johnson in the South Africa goal. The visitors were growing in confidence and created some chances as the game went on, 2 minutes from time substitute Ngubo headed home a corner to reduce the gap but 20 year old striker Carlos Fernandez netted to make it 3-1 racing on to a Torreira through ball to beat Johnson at his near post, a delightful moment for the youngster netting his first ever international goal.


World Rankings

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/lKOGRYnRLr8lAu2dSXh5aMOdbTkBaNM4H9DYCNB9.png


Uruguay have moved back into the top 10 following the latest round of international friendlies.
#310886 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Season End 2022


Results

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/s2iRXw3CnKUQjZPnXj1IY8xImf02NIhAM57iYJHz.png


For some reason I uploaded the screenshot without the Shandong result ... In the first game of the month we were staring defeat in the face, we went 2-0 down early on but Zhunyi headed home from a corner to give us some hope, we completed the turnaround in the second half thanks to a penalty from Herrarte and a header from super sub Felipe Mora. The penultimate game of the season and we were cruising, Colman netted from the spot to give us the lead and Beikong hadn't even had a shot until the 73rd minute when their center back hoofed the ball clear and it dropped between our defence and keeper, their striker ran through and slotted home, unbelievable! The lads never gave up though and rallied to claim a deserved win, Herrarte put us back in front then Jinshuai netted from close range to wrap it up, Guangzhou were held to a 1-1 draw away to lowly Quanjian which meant that we had secured 4th place and would once again be playing ACL football next season! The final game against Shandong was an opportunity to break their dominance but despite a very even game they took their chances and beat us 2-0 to claim yet another title!


League Table

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/ANHjtAYEdIUKwdLi3TNq8imeIu2W7yXLW4VklIvF.png


Don't know what happened with the screenshots! The league table is a game short but as I said above Shandong again won the league and we finished 4th.


FA Cup Final

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/UUZkRshn7Tf1CtFNH1MVwfZ9h9KHq89IPu1d9Xu0.png


A tight game and we didn't deserve to lose but this leaves us a mountain to climb! Binbin put us behind early on but Xiuwei found the top corner to level it up early in the second half then we promptly collapsed and fell to an undeserved 3-1 defeat, hard to take but we have an away goal I guess...

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/nXwq4KeG7WecrhjrthqA0dpN3r66wu64Jyii5voc.png


And a vital away goal we had!! This was a real fairy tale as we looked dead and buried until Binbin gave us hope in the 81st minute, once again it was very pleasing to match Shandong but it looked like a step too far, until Felipe Mora was hacked down in the area with seconds remaining, now for the fairy tale ... Wang Yangpo, at 35 years of age, is set to retire at the end of the season and how fitting that the final kick of his career secured back to back FA Cup wins for Hangzhou, incredible stuff!!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/4LDtcYK0GXgr1FCy3roRJhmkrB5Andd5Y2BLOMiB.png



Star Performer

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/D6loaZ26TMJJWvnw4mdaCDkec6OqL5VPdAy05uiZ.png


Herrarte of course, gutting that he missed the FA Cup Final Second Leg and the celebrations that followed, 2 goals and 2 assists in his 4 appearances and typically good performances.


Club Stats

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/SKdIKRwPySyUn1FCac7re5kRfpTYGscCEOHa78GX.png


Dominated by Herrarte of course...


Review & Awards

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/8eAkJrPL3keeYgKajA6iWxkpPzoisM9ap93nv9S1.png

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/tXwO8bLIwDrnDYUy5fvf0ZvfwmA2oc4TZp4Xu2tu.png



Squad Stats

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/TjDnfFFVHQXC7pzIUBUOfrQStcTq1I5hw9SUalpF.png
https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/6wy6tiwE1eJSOVY4kjdIaiVsIPt6P9ltFclEiMaM.png


Herrarte was again outstanding which was a shame for Assis who also impressed but found his game time restricted by Herrarte's from, Xiuwei had another solid season and the progress of Tan Lin & Dong in the midfield was encouraging.


Time For A Change...


I have decided not to renew my contract with Hangzhou after 4 great years at the helm, in my time at the club i've turned them into one of the most reputable sides in China and qualified for the ACL every year also managing to lift the FA Cup twice, but I feel it's time for a new challenge and time to move on from Asia. Stay tuned for my next move...
#310119 (No Longer a) Lower League Dream
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
You get a lot of crash dumps mate ... must close and open the game a lot?
#310061 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
September 2022



Results


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/b7NK3pRIaFBkKfJogbZnvoBlDGZrR128a6tfkouC.png


We managed to secure a huge victory and complete a double over Guangzhou thanks to a 37th minute strike from Herrarte, it was a very tight game as expected but we held firm to extend the gap over them, bizarrely Herrarte scored in the 37th minute for the second game running to put us ahead at Qingdao but we had to settle for a draw in a game we completely dominated, once again a huge punt from their defence went straight over the top of mine and their striker ran through and slotted past Rongzhe! What a wasted opportunity! We made 9 changes for the trip to Meizhou and completed an aggregate win of 7-1, our 3 goals coming from a first half brace from Felipe Mora and a second half strike from Assis, comfortable progress for us but unfortunately we will face Shandong in the final after they saw off First Division Wuhan with an 8-7 penalty win! Felipe Mora kept his place for the league trip to Renhe and was on the score sheet again to cancel out an early penalty from Renhe and make it 1-1 before the break, we were poor throughout though and Renhe grabbed a deserved 2-1 win in the 77th minute, the inconsistency of this side is really getting to me now!


League Table

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/nZPmBd2oZFhaURYvVB1JnZCVTJk24etKzXCgNDVi.png


It's hard to imagine there will ever be a better chance to win the league but we've been far too inconsistent, Shandong leading the way on just 50 points with 3 games to go and it's gonna be close with Yongchang still shocking everyone with their form sitting 2nd on 49 points joint with Beijing, it's been an incredible season for sure! Shenhua sit above us in 4th thanks to a better head to head record then a gap of just 2 points to Guangzhou in 6th so the battle for 4th place and potential ACL qualification is also going to be a tight one, it'll be an interesting end whatever happens.


Star Performer

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/c798P7a5PklpyVBjLWC17XmHeth9eLxYHCIkMFyB.png


Herrarte's been at it again, another fine month from the Guatemalan attacker netting twice and creating once in his 3 appearances, a very good season from this lad again and seems to be over his injury problems. Als got CSL Player of the Month:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/iXCYVmU5ZijUmjMnhTMYcIpyxoD7QZOewW2ls83P.png


Club Stats


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/DX2kB1PQiEn9cROOxxI5UeB2gJcPfbvshFiXnETH.png


Herrarte everywhere!! What a player!!


Youth Intake

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/JZiCHN5plBxcALCyczLgFEnWGv3rYnkbHXC939fR.png


A decent influx this year with a number of players having the potential to challenge for first team involvement in the future, particularly like the look of Tian Peng (below) who should provide excellent competition for the ball winning midfielder role with Tan Lin who has progressed massively this season!

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/J1Hxim8gPF9WDfcanDpCgYh0ca6Iyr42CEDJP8el.png


Upcoming Fixtures

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/cxByY7xXhOyO8gO33K6YWGbT13E61bkPvYxmU2zJ.png


Home games against Huaxia & Beikong are both must win fixtures really with a trip to Shandong on the final day, which will act as a dress rehearsal for the two legged FA Cup Final that follows, this could be a bumpy ride but whatever happens it's been an excellent season.
#310058 My Ultimate Football Manager Challenge II
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Great work winning the FFA Cup, nice one. Great read so far.

Hopefully you can make some financial progress as well, do the Cup Winners get into ACL?
#309834 2015/16 Barclays Premier League Thread
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Amrabat's a quality player on his day, if he can find some consistency there he'll be a decent signing.
#309813 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
August 2022



Results


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/HnRM8q0TtWZIxsDECsQxJdYPJ6Zkp4ySBbUAfmXg.png


The poor form continued for the trip to Shenhua as we started slowly and found ourselves 2-0 down at the break, Colman netted after an hour to bring us back into the game but another Shenhua goal minutes later put the game out of reach, We managed a 2nd win in 9 league games at home to Liaoning but it looked ominous after a frantic start, Colman fired us into the lead after just 5 minutes but by the 9th minute we found ourselves 2-1 down, Colman struck again to level it up midway through the first half before 2 quick fire Xiuwei strikes and a goal from Herrarte on the stroke of half time put us firmly in control, Colman grabbed his 3rd goal and our 6th in a mediocre second half to close out a mental 6-2 win! The goals kept flowing as we took control of the FA Cup Semi Final against First Division side Meizhou with a crushing 4-0 first leg win, all 4 goals coming from different scorers and all before half time, Colman's 5th goal in 3 games and strikes from Jinshuai, Yangpo & Wang Yi ensure we put ourselves in a fantastic position. In the other Semi Final Shandong were beaten at home by First Division outfit Wuhan, it couldn't happen, could it?

Returning to league action and further disappointment as we failed to make the breakthrough against Quanjian and has to settle for a 0-0 draw, the trip to A'erbin saw further disappointment as the struggling side took control going 2-0 up in the first half, substitute Felipe Mora gave us hope in the 73rd minute and Herrarte then pulled us level a few minutes later but we just couldn't force home a winner, back to back draws in games we really should be winning comfortably! The final game of the month was an improvement as we saw off rivals Jiangsu with relative ease, Herrarte done the damage midway through the first half and we never looked like throwing it away, Assis came off the bench to wrap things up in stoppage time handing us a 2-0 win.


League Table


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/Z3JO1SFDB86cRDGAP4jVFpNn4AZKpjL02aMjfvsj.png


We continue to drop points that we really shouldn't and it's seen us fade away from the title race which to be fair I never expected to be anywhere near, we are now 6 points off Beijing who are top but sit just 2 points off the top 4 as Yongchang & Shenhua continue to defy the odds. Guangzhou are really struggling with 3 losses from their last 5 games and sit 2 points behind us in 6th, it's still a very open league table though with just 6 games remaining.


Star Performer


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/TiXn19k0P1hCjsBZNQzQta2rMwmgjvIacxGbdRHm.png


It was a close battle between Herrarte and Colman but the latter's form dropped off at the end of the month so i've gone for the ever impressive Herrarte, 3 goals and an assist in his 5 appearances this month and typically good performances from the Guatemalan.


Club Stats


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/FuxdbFNuqAAdPRdFttolRQr6ntAnwZyrPcr4f6ql.png



Other News


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/F2SSJOaLDnnKv9ZSPCID3pGLMsNzSnUpyTxYhANV.png


Our new signing Chen Binbin has picked up a knee ligament injury and will miss the rest of the season ... great!


Upcoming Fixtures


https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qLv0g3OkiDwTB24UyyTTr18Eo3MJlezz2RoWCG6r.png


A massive game to start as we face a visit from Guangzhou which could be huge in the race for ACL Football next season, we then travel to lowly Qingdao before the 2nd leg of our FA Cup Semi Final against Meizhou where we hold a 4-0 lead, it's likely I will field an entirely changed xi for this game as we return to league action shortly after with a trip to Renhe.
#309597 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
July 2022


Results

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/KU02y5PPywyJorlTg4RubA7w0MgtuaNfcANmp7bz.png


Our poor form continued at Fuli where a collapse saw an early goal from Ge Yifeng turned around into a 2-1 defeat after a poor second half showing, we finally returned to winning ways at the 7th attempt recording a 3-1 win at Shanggang but it took us an hour to warm up, we were 1-0 down from a first half strike but a rampant second half display saw us turn it around and claim a 3-1 win with goals from Herrarte, Binbin & another for Yifeng. Our trip to Renhe was settled by an early goal with Felipe Mora netting hopefully the first of many for the club in the 11th minute, which was enough to win a dull affair and send us in to the Quarter Final, our return to league action was a big disappointment and another shocking first half display which saw us 2-0 down at half time, we tweaked a few things and performed better in the second half but without reward and Beijing took all 3 points to move top. The FA Cup Quarter Final was an absolute breeze despite resting a number of players again, a 4-0 win over First Division outfit Chongqing with all the goals coming in the first half Herrarte & Wang Yi on the score sheet along with a brace from Jinshuai.


League Table

http://i.imgur.com/aIyb7vE.png?1


3 straight wins for Beijing sees them move top but this is set to be the closest season since I moved to China, incredibly with 11 games to play just 7 points separates the top 9 clubs and at this stage anyone could win it!


Star Performer

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/rqr1pz98sqllJwkuN4QHXFMiVcSURuGbGTWX5P3F.png


The youngster has been standing in for Saad who picked up an injury and has been impressive, he's far from a conventional winger and spends a lot of his playing time in center mid or behind the striker but he's been excellent on the right this month scoring 2 and creating 2 in his 5 appearances.


Club Stats

http://i.imgur.com/avMyB2d.png?1


Herrarte is dominating the stats for us again this season and although he's not reaching the incredible standards he has set before he has still been excellent, also just got him tied down for a few more years which is great news.


Upcoming Fixtures

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/qKkVGsuCFGSLK4kpfbkrj6kK4tCmLxouwr3xkKo8.png


Quite a busy month ahead with the first leg of the FA Cup Semi Final against First Division Meizhou sandwiched between 5 league games with trips to Shenhua & A'erbin along with home ties against Liaoning, Quanjian & Jiangsu. On paper it's a month with potential for a good run of form but having won just once in our last 7 league games I don't want to get ahead of myself.
#309584 My Ultimate Football Manager Challenge II
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Enjoying this so far Ice Man, keep it up. Nice work in the FFA Cup as well promising start.
#309579 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
May & June 2022


Results

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/hmc3S1lz5LlCJEnWQ2iyZj8uxXR0m4PTup5LwQTa.png


That's gone badly, actually terribly! Seoul raced into a 3-0 lead before half time which isn't as bad as it looks given that i'd fielded a weakened side in preparation for the Shandong game, Herrarte was one of the players to keep his place and he ensured we won the second half and salvaged some pride going down 3-1, unfortunately the changes made little difference as Shandong beat us 2-0, the match itself was very even and we played weel but didn't take our chances and were punished for some sloppy defending which was disappointing. Looking to return to winning ways we had to settle for back to back draws first at Huaxia despite Luo Dong giving us the lead in the second half and then at Beikong where we were really put to the sword and went behind early on but Christhian Colman grabbed the goal to earn us a point. The final game of the period ended disappointingly, we were missing our keeper Rongzhe and midfielder Xiuwei thanks to the World Cup and we were beaten by a late goal which was entirely undeserved and a huge disappointment.


League Table

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7u66bXaMcqYundfXCtnbD5wX9WJZBJkt5SXlJwtY.png


Yongchang are the surprise leaders as we enter the second half of the season, and Shandong's good form has moved them up to 2nd with us dropping to 3rd after an awful month. Guangzhou have found their feet this season and are right on our tail, just 6 points separate the top 7 at the moment.


Star Performer

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/9OEy3OxfML7thaRrcvLbrnGNvBGgZuL6GqQyb9ly.png


19 year old midfielder Luo Dong has maintained his good form despite the team slipping of late, even in the 2 friendlies we played during the World Cup break. Really impressed with this guy this season.


Club Stats

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/7hXmGR8ROfKOCFC8HyvPhjmv0UWhuYJyDWa2T36J.png



Transfers

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/g3g0KnzUN7cPxwE0M7KUcYlCDJ5nOf6bOeh5wcrS.png


2 young keepers have been sent on loan to get some experience, we have also moved to bring in 2 players to bolster our attacking options:

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/z96seIFye9zssyNKP2edEx16aFPf4VTX3m3GmBY6.png


24 year old Chen Binbin comes in for £2m from Beijing, the left winger spent some time on loan with us a couple of seasons back and i'm pleased to add his flair and crossing ability to the squad, Jinshuai has done well over the past couple of years but hasn't rally pushed on to the next level and will likely be released at the end of the year as we have an exciting young player breaking through to the first team in this position to provide competition for Binbin.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/p7fyFIgWj0F6ecjfxfpGnFjB6RKysmJHv3tqdk1g.png


Chilean striker Felipe Mora joins on a free from Audax Italiano, he has a good record in the top division in Chile and displays solid attributes for a striker, should be a good battle between him and Colman for the lone striker position with young Wang Yi also providing competition as he continues to develop.


Upcoming Fixtures

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/j5e7FHKxP4v7TQJ4fYcBntSyQWdm58FljGvAs0aH.png


We return to league action with a trip to Fuli and then host Shanggang before our FA Cup tie that sees us go to Renhe, we finish the month at home against Beijing unless we get through to the FA Cup Quarter Final which is scheduled for the end of the month if we get that far.
#309576 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
Great read as always gaz.. That Seoul followed by Shandong is going to be huge for you. I really hope you can pull off the double win!


Thanks for the comment good to see you're enjoying it.
#309423 A One Way Ticket to Asia ... and Beyond!
gaz12321
15 years ago
1 week ago
502
April 2022


Results

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/zaip175oH9iyPClr8MaKrhEGb0KmhuRV0pYcAalE.png


We comfortably saw off Quanjian to claim our first win in 5 games with Xiuwei & Herrarte goals giving us a 2-0 lead at the break and Assis' first goal for the club making it 3-0 12 minutes from the end, this was followed by disappointment as we fell to a 3-1 defeat at Melbounre in the ACL Group meaning our fate was no longer in our hands, Saad had given us hope when his strike made it 1-1 but Melbourne took control in the second half and ran out 3-1 winners. We picked up another league win as we saw off newly promoted Liaoning thanks to 19 year old striker Wang Yi grabbing his first senior goal and Ge Yifeng making it 2-0 before a late Liaoning goal ensured a nervy finish but we held on for a 2-1 win. We then held Jiangsu to a draw despite spending large periods under pressure we managed to hold firm and claim a point from our rivals, the next game saw us return to winning ways as we beat struggling A'erbin 2-0 in front of our fans, Jinshuai & Yifeng getting the goals to seal the win before the break. Osaka grabbed an entirely undeserved late winner out of nowhere in a game we should have won comfortably that in reality sees us knocked out of the ACL, a huge disappointment after winning our first 2 games we just haven't been good enough! We bounced back from disappointment to finish the month strongly, although it took time as lowly Qingdao took the lead midway through the 2nd half which seemed to spark us in to life, Colman converted a penalty on his return from injury to level it up before Jinshuai and Saad secured a 3-1 win, a trip to Guangzhou looked daunting and our record against them isn't great but it got better here as Colman struck the only goal in the first half and we claimed all 3 points from what was a very even game. Our final game this month was a visit from Renhe which had been brought forward for TV coverage. Another 1-0 win for us, Luo Dong grabbed his first goal for us early on and that was enough for victory.


League Tables

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/E2o15APjhlncWRhmpcFU6oNRMPC4vyfHOsj64IWX.png


A combination of our solid form and inconsistency from other sides has seen us move top of the table, with a 5 point lead! The performances of Shandong & Guangzhou are a huge surprise, both are struggling at the moment but there's a long way to go yet.

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/NUOalykmaHjkVey7oIatcrUq9QCcPvAYZsDd7XTL.png


Not looking good, Melbourne have us beat on the head to head results so we need to win away at Seoul and hope that they fail to beat Osaka, not asking for much.


Star Performer

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/MdcjKOonSgMW56OOK2FXw8IYpORj9aMVQjZA5uQP.png


This little gem has been outstanding, just 19 years old and he has been our best player this season in my opinion, even though he is playing a role that isn't best suited to him to allow Xiuwei the freedom of the midfield he just keeps turning in quality performances! Could develop into the league's best midfielder in the future if he keeps this up!


Club Stats

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/5D2XniQR1bpJArHBUCUw9PIk7wExcm9LGTzXYQsJ.png


Upcoming Fixtures

https://sortitoutsi.net/uploads/mirrored_images/tjSHg3lJbhyyj3B7bIqEnx8DPOo9KdosDnzOPaA4.png


A tough start as we head to Seoul in our final ACL Group game and 3 days later host Shandong in the league! We then face 3 straight away trips against Huaxia, Beikong & Yongchang before almost a month off due to the World Cup, which is why i'll post May & June in the same update. I've arranged some friendlies to keep fitness up although they aren't shown here.