Soca Warriors, Saudis Getting Friendly

It is turning out to be a good day for football addicts with decent Internet connections. First we have the UEFA Cup Final. Later on there is the Trinidad and Tobago – Peru friendly, which can also be viewed online. The T&T match should be a fun one as it serves as the final home appearance for 38-year-old Russell Latapy. You can bet the steelpans will be out in full force in the stands. Can you believe FIFA has banned steelpans at the World Cup? Another example of the football officials showing their disregard for fans.

Tomorrow we get to see Saudi Arabia in action when the Falcons take on Belgium in the Netherlands. Saudi coach Marcos Paqueta has these interesting thoughts on his team:

“We have a few dangerous individuals, but our group is strong and that’s where our strength lies. We don’t have players playing in Europe, but this means they are together a lot and also they can give our opponents a surprise,” he said.

As for his strategy against Group H opponents Tunisia, Ukraine and Spain:

“Spain are favourites for our group and Ukraine will be tough. But we start against Tunisia and if we can beat them in the first game and can get a draw in the other games, then who knows.”

Now you know why we have been hyping that Saudi Arabia – Tunisia match for months!

We failed to mention this on yesterday, but a hodgepodge collection of Ghana players lost to French side Nice yesterday. The Black Stars are having a hard time putting together a proper training camp and schedule ahead of the World Cup, which is a shame because they could be one of the more fun teams to watch if they are on form.