World Cup Round Up: New Kits, Israeli Conspiracies, Benelux 2018

Out with the old, in with the new. It is fashion week in the world of international football with countries showing off their new kits. There is Germany displaying a new take on an old design, the Netherlands feeling the blues, and Italy, well, hard to say what they are going for in Italy.

They are the five words that will make England fans cringe. “I want Russia to qualify,” said Israel keeper coach Alexander Ubarov who happens to have been born in the former Soviet Union and who has made the British tabloids jump for joy with his comments. Meanwhile, Russia boss Guus Hiddink thinks England doesn’t deserve a spot in Euro 2008.

That little strike that is halting the construction of the 2010 World Cup stadium in Durban might not be so little if it spreads to other stadium construction sites across the country. I have a feeling this is going to get uglier sooner rather than later. Bummer.

What is it going to take to restore Hungary’s national team to greatness? Free beer and slot machines. That, and a boatload of new players who actually have talent.

The tragic developments in Italy are not going to distract the Azzurri from playing their best against Scotland on Saturday. That is the word from Italian football chief Giancarlo Abete, who must be relieved that it is a weekend for international football and not more Serie A madness.

In the race against time, Ronaldinho and his twisted right ankle might be winning. Doctors think Ronnie will be good to go for Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Peru.

It is official. Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg have told FIFA that they would like to host the 2018 World Cup. They will be battling it out with about 90 other countries to land the world’s largest sporting event.