Ape Canyon News Service

What I have been reading lately #51

2011-12-25T09:18:00.000-08:00

In December of 1944, the German army launched an offensive on the western front in a last-ditch effort to win the war. This offensive is commonly known as the Battle of the Bulge. At that time, Bill Davidson was a U.S. army soldier/journalist covering the war for Yank magazine. During the battle, he found himself trapped behind German lines with two Jewish German children to take care of. This book, written decades after the war was over, retells Davidson's efforts to get back through the lines to the Allied side and the various soldiers, resistance fighters, deserters, black marketeers, famous authors, and possible Nazi spies that he encountered along the way.

Left: Ernest Hemingway

Below: U.S. soldiers during the Battle of the Bulge

After the war, Davidson went on to write several biographies of Hollywood celebrities including Spencer Tracy, Sid Caesar, and Gary Coleman. For more information, click here.

Merry Christmas from AC Milan

2011-12-25T06:59:00.000-08:00

The folks at AC Milan are apparently so excited about Christmas this year that they sent out two (slightly different) videos--
Video one:

Video two:

Just like AC Milan, Ape Canyon News Service would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

NFL game report: Jacksonville Jaguars 31 - Pittsburgh Steelers 29 (2007 playoffs)

2011-12-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

Date played: January 5, 2008
Broadcast Network: NBC
Announcers: Al Michaels and John Madden
Who I rooted for when this game originally took place: I thought it was the Jaguars, but apparently not (see below)
Who I now wish had won: Jacksonville
What happened: Pittsburgh was trailing 28-10 at the start of the fourth quarter but scored three touchdowns and came back to take a 29-28 lead. Jacksonville kicked a field goal with thirty-seven seconds left to win the game.

Notable players who appeared in this game for Jacksonville: David Garrard (see photo directly above), Maurice Jones-Drew (see photo at very top) , Fred Taylor, Vince Manuwai
Notable players who appeared in this game for Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, Heath Miller, Santonio Holmes, James Farrior, James Harrison, Troy Polamalu
Controversial aspects of this game: None really-- the officiating could have been a bit better
Connection between this game and Todd Marinovich: None
Unusual things about this game: Maurice Jones-Drew returned a kickoff 96 yards without scoring a touchdown.
Turnovers in this game: Three interceptions by Ben Roethlisberger (two by Rashean Mathis-- one of which was returned for a touchdown-- and one by Derek Landri, a defensive lineman); two interceptions in the second half by David Garrard; one fumble by Ben Roethlisberger on the second-to-last play of the game.
Important plays in this game: The Steelers scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter to make it 28-23. They successfully completed the two-point conversion, but it was called back on a possibly non-existent holding penalty. They tried again from the twelve yard line but failed.
Other important plays in this game: When Pittsburgh scored another touchdown to make it 29-28, they once again failed to make the two-point conversion. This time no penalties were involved.
The most famous and important play in this game: With under two minutes left and trailing 29-28, Jacksonville faced fourth down and two at the Steelers 43 yard line. The Jaguars called a quarterback draw and David Garrard ran the ball all the way down to the 11 yard line. (See video below)

Things I remembered incorrectly about this game: I clearly remember watching this game at a pizza place. The Jaguars were wearing their home blue jerseys (not true) and their quarterback was Byron Leftwich (not true-- Leftwich has been cut by Jacksonville before the start of the season). I also clearly remember having secretly rooted for the Jaguars because certain people I was eating with were Steelers fans. A check of my journal entry from the next day, however, reveals the following sentence-- "All four NFL wildcard round playoff games went against me." Other than the eating pizza part, I am not sure what is true anymore.

Below: Byron Leftwich pictured on the Jaguars 2007 schedule

What happened next: Jacksonville lost in the next round of the playoffs to the New England Patriots. The following season, the Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super Bowl.

What I have been reading lately #50

2011-12-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

Just this morning, I finished reading Brian Billick's More Than A Game: The Glorious Present and Uncertain Future of the NFL (co-authored by Michael MacCambridge). Billick is a former offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings and later head coach of the Baltimore Ravens (with whom he won Super Bowl XXXV). He currently works as a commentator for the FOX network, but his name has been mentioned as a possible candidate to fill the vacant head coaching position in Miami.

This book was published in the fall of 2009 and gives a broad overview of the current state of the NFL from the perspective of league officials, owners, general managers, head coaches, assistant coaches, and players. In the book, Billick draws upon both his personal experiences as a player and coach, as well as the insights he gained from the world of television broadcasting. I enjoyed reading this book; however, I am sure that I will have completely forgotten that I ever even read it within a matter of just a few days.

Below: Brian Billick (left) talking to Ravens quarterback Kyle Boller

NFL game report: Kansas City Chiefs 10 - Los Angeles Raiders 6 (1991 playoffs)

2011-12-11T05:53:00.000-08:00

Date played: December 28, 1991
Broadcast network: ABC
Announcers: Brent Musburger and Dick Vermeil
Who I rooted for when this game originally took place: Chiefs (I think)
Who I now wish had won: Not sure
What happened: Five interceptions, three fumbles, two missed field goals, and a whole bunch of penalties at the very end. In addition, the game's only touchdown would not have counted under current rules. Barry Word (Chiefs-- 130 yards rushing) and Nick Bell (Raiders-- 107 yards rushing) provided most of the offense.

Notable players who appeared in this game for Kansas City: Steve DeBerg, John Alt, Dave Szott, Tim Grunhard, Christian Okoye (briefly), Derrick Thomas, Dan Saleaumua, Neil Smith, Deron Cherry (see photos above)
Notable players who appeared in this game for Los Angeles: Todd Marinovich (see photo below), Marcus Allen, Willie Gault, Steve Wisniewski, Don Mosebar, Max Montoya, Howie Long, Bob Golic, Greg Townsend, Winston Moss, Lionel Washington, Ronnie Lott, Eddie Anderson
Controversial aspects of this game: The previous week the Raiders had benched starter Jay Schroeder in favor of rookie Todd Marinovich. Despite the Raiders' loss, Marinovich had played well and was given the starter's job in the rematch against the Chiefs. Marinovich was the second-youngest quarterback to ever start an NFL playoff game up to that time.

Raiders head coach: Art Shell
Chiefs head coach: Marty Shottenheimer
Chiefs assistant coaches who would go on to become head coaches: Bill Cowher, Tony Dungy, Herman Edwards
Connection between this game and Todd Marinovich: Marinovich played in this game.

Below: A post-game interview with Todd Marinovich

Players with enormous shoulder pads: Chiefs linebacker Tracy Simien (no photo available at this time)
Players who were 37 years old during this game: Steve DeBerg
Players who had won five consecutive games against the Raiders prior to this game: Steve DeBerg
Players with amazing play fakes on play-action passes: Steve DeBerg
Players who had to be rushed to the hospital with irregular heartbeats: Derrick Thomas (see photo below)

People associated with this game who resemble John Cleese: Kansas City place kicker Nick Lowery
Players who weighed 151 pounds during this game: Kansas City wide receiver J.J. Birden
Players who did not appear in this game but are nonetheless important to world history: Raiders third-string quarterback Vince Evans (see photo below)

What happened next: The Chiefs lost in the next round of the playoffs to the Buffalo Bills; Todd Marinovich played one more season in the NFL; Steve Deberg can be relatively easily reached on the internet; Derrick Thomas died after a car crash; Dick Vermeil won the Super Bowl as coach of the St. Louis Rams.

NFL game report: Titans 22 - Bills 16 (1999 playoffs)

2011-12-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

Date played: January 8, 2000
Broadcast network: ABC
Broadcasters: Mike Patrick, Joe Theismann, Paul Maguire
Who I rooted for when this game originally took place: Titans (I think)
Who I now wish had won: Titans
What happened: Tennessee led 12-0 at halftime. Buffalo came back to take a 13-12 lead early in the 4th quarter. Titan's kicker Al Del Greco kicked a 36 yard field goal with under two minutes left. Steve Christie kicked a 41 yard field goal with :20 left to give Buffalo the lead back. Tennessee returned the ensuing kickoff 75 yards to win the game. (Video below-- not the ABC announcers, however)

Notable players who appeared in this game for Buffalo: Bruce Smith, Thurman Thomas, Steve Christie, Andre Reed, Peerless Price
Notable players who appeared in this game for Tennessee: Steve McNair, Eddie George, Jevon Kearse, Samari Rolle, Al Del Greco
Controversial aspects of this game: The final play; Bill's coach Wade Phillips's decision to start Rob Johnson (pictured below) at quarterback instead of Doug Flutie.

Connection between this game and Todd Marinovich: Prior to this game, there had been only three other occasions when a quarterback had started every game of the NFL season except the last game and then not started in the playoffs. One of the other times was in 1991, when Marinovich replaced Jay Schroeder as Raiders quarterback in back-to-back games against Kansas City.
People associated with this game who resemble Bob Newhart: Wade Phillips
Things I remembered incorrectly about this game: I thought that the game was played on astroturf, not grass. I also remembered there being a bit of snow on the field.

How this game would be remembered in an alternate universe: As the Rob Johnson shoe game, rather than as Music City Miracle. Johnson, who had been playing rather badly all game, led the Bills to a seemingly-victorious final drive as time wound down. At one point, Johnson had lost one of his shoes, but rather than spike the ball and stop the clock, he completed a crucial pass to bring Buffalo into easier field goal position.
What happened next: Tennessee won their next two playoff games before losing in the Super Bowl. (Video below) Steve McNair was killed by his girlfriend in 2009. The Bills have only had one winning season since this game and have not made the playoffs once in that time.

A poem written around the time this game originally took place:

TITANS BEAT BILLS

The television sets

are filled

with terrible news!

Football players

act like houses

on wheels—

they look busy

and blame their troubles

on an angry God!

Special Offer-- Limited Time Only!!!!

2011-12-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

Match report: Italy 3 - Ukraine 0 (Quarterfinal 2006 World Cup)

2011-05-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

Goals scored: Zambrotta 6', Toni 59', Toni 69'
What happened: Italy defeated Ukraine in the quarterfinals of the 2006 FIFA World Cup. They advanced to the semifinals against Germany.
Players who appeared in the match and who had played at AC Milan during the previous season: Gattuso, Pirlo, Shevchenko
Players who appeared in the match and who would later play for AC Milan: Zambrotta, Oddo
Players who were on the bench for this match and who had played at AC Milan during the previous season: Inzaghi, Gilardino, Nesta
Players who were on the bench for this match and who would later play for AC Milan: None
Players who played in the match and who I wish played for Milan: Fabio Cannavaro
Players whose brothers played in this match and who I wish played for Milan: Paolo Cannavaro
Questions raised by this match: Was this Gianluca Zambrotta's greatest career moment?
Who did I root for the first time I saw this match? Ukraine
Things the ESPN announcers did that were annoying: Mispronounce many names ( "Zambratto," "Purrlo," "Cam-rone-a-nay-see," probably almost all of the Ukraine players' names)
Injured former players/Juventus staff members whose recent scandal-related suicide attempts were frequently mentioned during the broadcast: Gianluca Pessotto
Relatively amusing injuries to Italy players: Gattuso 14' (kneed in back), Gattuso 26' (wrist stomped on), Cannavaro 47' (hit in groin by ball after Ukraine player missed header), Buffon 50' (bumped head on goalpost making save)
Words to describe most of the Ukraine players' hair: long, blond, stringy, Owen Wilson-like
What this match teaches us: Why AC Milan insisted on acquiring Zambrotta (pictured at top) from Barcelona

Below: Ukraine captain and former Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko

Video highlights are below:

A semi-mysterious video

2011-05-30T22:03:00.000-07:00

There many things I am not sure about these days. Here are some of them:

I am not exactly sure who wrote or performed the music/poem. Is it even a poem or just some guy talking?
I am also not exactly sure about the relationship between the soundtrack and the video. The video appears to be about the 1950 World Cup final between Uruguay and Brazil. Did the same people make both?
I'm not even totally certain what language this is, although I think it's Italian.

Champions League final tickets

2011-05-23T20:55:00.000-07:00

Brazilian soccer match delayed due to swarm of bees

2011-05-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

According to a source that I can no longer locate-- "The 2-2 draw in the Campeonato Goiano was held up for 20 minutes in the first half whilst the fire department killed off the swarm of bees with diesel oil and fire extinguishers."

Also, there apparently was a brawl at the end of the match involving players from both sides and then later a shooting which left one unfortunate fan dead.

Picture of the day

2011-05-02T18:10:00.001-07:00

Italian newspaper coverage of Robinho

Match report: Milan 1 - Bologna 0

2011-05-01T18:10:00.000-07:00

Goals Scored: Flamini 8' (See photo above-- the ball is visible just over Flamini's shoulder)
What happened: Milan scored early and held on to win. They are in first place-- eight points ahead of Inter and nine ahead of Napoli with three matches left.
What it was like to watch this match: Milan are good; Bologna are not. Milan had a reason try hard; Bologna did not. Milan scored early; Bologna did not. Milan had many other chances to score; Bologna did not. Therefore, watching this match was nothing less than pure torture-- for eighty-two+ minutes Milan were one stupid/flukey/extraordinary play away from disaster.
Number of wide open headers Bologna missed during the second half: 2 (Like I said-- pure torture)
Bologna player sent off undeservedly with a straight red card late in the second half: Della Rocca
Evidence that there is a conspiracy to give Milan the Scudetto this season: Della Rocca's sending off, which completely ended Bologna's attacking threat. A penalty awarded to Milan against Napoli on February 28th for a debatable handball.
Evidence that there is a conspiracy to prevent Milan from winning the Scudetto this season: The three game suspension given to Ibrahimovic for talking disrespectfully to the linesman at the end of Milan's 3-0 victory over Sampdoria.
Milan players who made their debut today: Giacomo Beretta
Milan players whose wives/girlfriends have apparently had babies recently: Antonio Cassano, Robinho, Thiago Silva, Urby Emanuelson
What this match teaches us: Milan will win the Scudetto this season.

Below: Before the match, a video of Pope John Paul II was shown at the San Siro.

Below: Flamini doesn't score many goals, and certainly none as important as this one.

World soccer update

2011-05-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

Leaving aside Serie A for a moment, there was a lot of soccer played this weekend. The major matches include:

Chelsea 2 - Tottenham 1 (see photo above-- a goal was awarded to Chelsea despite the fact that the ball didn't cross the line)

Arsenal 1 - Manchester United 0-- The Premier League title race is not quite over yet.

Real Madrid lost to Real Zargoza, but then Barcelona lost to Real Sociedad.

Corinthians 1 - Palmeiras 1 (6-5 on penalties)-- Corinthians move on to face Santos in the finals of the Campeonato Paulista.

Video below

AEK defeated PAOK in the Greek Cup finals 3-0. The match ended a few minutes early due to rioting fans (see videos below)

Below are actual match highlights

What I have been listening to lately #65

2011-04-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

I am pretty sure that this is in Dutch.

What I have been listening to lately #64

2011-04-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Brescia defender pulls off Kevin-Prince Boateng's shirt

2011-04-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

Milan won 1-0.

Highlights from three different recent important matches that Milan won by a score of 3-0

2011-04-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

February 28, 2011: Milan 3 - Napoli 0

April 2, 2011: Milan 3 - Inter 0

April 16, 2011: Milan 3 - Sampdoria 0

Another nice goal by Seedorf and one by Gattuso

2011-04-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

World Soccer update

2011-04-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid defeated Barcelona to win the Copa del Rey. However, during the parade celebrating the victory, there was a small disaster involving the winner's trophy.

Meanwhile, in Scotland, the Celtic-Rangers match did not quite live up to the excitement generated by a recent spate of letter bombs sent to prominent figures associated with Celtic.

What Milan have been up to lately

2011-04-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

Fiorentina 1 - Milan 2

Picture of the day

2011-04-10T20:14:00.001-07:00

Picture of the day

2010-12-19T07:47:00.001-08:00

Pictures of the Day-- Student protests in London

2010-11-14T07:14:00.001-08:00

Not sure I quite understand this one...

Some of my best friends are poor.

I can't think of a response to this one.

For more on the protests, click here.

A basketball

2010-11-11T07:16:00.001-08:00

This week I was teaching my fifth graders the difference between observations, inferences, and opinions. For practice, I had them write about an object they all know well-- a Baden Junior Official 110 basketball that the kids get to play with at recess. Here is a selection of their work:

I feel like I Love basket ball I Love to play basketball and that is my favorite sport. It fun to play basketball.

--C-P (girl)

I don't like people who invent basketballs. Basketball is a good sport. It looks like a face.

--M (boy)

its fun

wouldnt need one

better than soccer

looks kinda new

it needs different

colors

annoying sometimes

--C (girl)

Basket balls is tight! Basket balls is a good exercise. basketballs is popular.

--X (boy)

Basketballs can be play more likely outside., People play basketballs because it's entertaining

--A (girl)

basketballs is great

in philippines our sport

is basketball there

very fun to play with.

--A (boy)

soccer it better

--H (boy)

It's brighter than the

black stripes on it

It's fun

I wish I had one

It's darker than my pink nails

people love to play

with basketball

looks like an orange

It hurts when you get hit by it

--F (girl)

Basket balls are fun to play with. I like the feeling of the bumps. It's fun when you bounce it and it comes back to you. I like the prints on the basketball.

--A (girl)

Fun to Play with

Fun to throw

Fun to

bowl with

--J (boy)

I like basketball but maybe other people don't. Sometimes I think that basketball could get boring because you play it a lot. I think that is dirty. I think Football is way cooler than basketball. ugly, boring, fun. I mostly like playing Football than basketball.

--J (girl)

it's orange

and it smells

like mystery and

feels like tiny

thorns.

--J (boy)

boring ball

ugly ball

weird ball

Dirty ball

annoing

--H (girl)

basketball is somehow

better than other ball

basketball are fun lots

of people like or want

to play it.

--U (girl)

What I have been listening to lately #63

2010-10-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

Manu Chao-- Mentira (?)

The year of ridiculous rumors continues

2010-10-09T06:19:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I never would have thought things like this were even worth mentioning. But now, you never know.

Serie A - Ronaldinho wants Kaka return

Pirlo's goal against Parma

2010-10-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Milan beat Parma 1-0. Below is Andrea Pirlo's goal-

What I have been listening to lately #62

2010-10-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

Ecuadorian musicians singing about their revolution to the tune of "Hey Jude."

Ibrahimovic and his big feet

2010-09-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, former Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi (pictured below) got into an argument with Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic live on Italian television. The reason for their disagreement was Sacchi's joking about Ibrahimovic scoring a goal because of his big feet. (For the record, Ibrahimovic wears a US men's size 13.)

The thing is, however, Sacchi may have a point. In both of Milan's last two games, Ibrahimovic scored goals that a player with smaller feet (or shorter legs) might not have.

The goal versus Lazio--

The goal versus Genoa--

The argument--

How soon will Milan be "officially in crisis"?

2010-09-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

Capuano's goal for Catana was amazing, and, for some reason, Inzaghi made the New York Times.

What I have been listening to lately #61

2010-09-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Anne Murray & Glen Campbell - Don't Think Twice, It's All Right

Find more videos like this on video.filestube.com.

This one has been done before.

What I have been listening to lately #60

2010-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Mason Jennings--Which Way Your Heart Will Go

Milan lose; Berlusconi makes jokes about Hitler

2010-09-13T20:50:00.000-07:00

Read this article.

More transfer announcements from AC Milan

2010-08-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

GALLIANI: 'Robinho is a wonderful gift from Berlusconi'

8/31/2010

MILAN - Adriano Galliani's words quoted by Sky: 'The acquisition of Robinho cost us € 18 million plus bonuses. He's a wonderful gift from president Berlusconi to the Milan fans.'

Stupidest Transfer Rumor Ever.

2010-08-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

Next In Line?
Milan are expected to announce the signing of Manchester City attacker Robinho on Tuesday, adding even more talent to what could shape up to be a very dangerous team in the attacking third. Fellow Brazilian Ronaldinho is already hitting his form for Milan and was named Goal.com World Player of the Week.

Milan 4 - Lecce 0: Milan are in first place! Here are pictures.

2010-08-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Above: Thiago Silva scores.

Below: Inzaghi is excited after scoring late to make it 4-0.

Below: This photo is from last season, against Napoli, I believe.

Below: They haven't assigned Ibrahimovic a number yet. He got to watch the match up in the stands with Berlusconi and Galliani. Unfortunately, no photographs seem to be available at this time.

Click here to read more.

More announcements from AC Milan

2010-08-28T17:46:00.000-07:00

SILVIO BERLUSCONI’S ANNOUNCEMENT

8/28/2010

MILANELLO – President Silvio Berlusconi arrived at Milanello by helicopter at 19.30 CET, met coach Massimiliano Allegri and his staff. Then he visited the players and informed them about the acqusition of Ibrahimovic. Later on President Berlusconi was called by Adriano Galliano, who then handed over the phone to Ibrahimovic, too, thus the President could talk to the Swedish player personally. After their conversation all the players applauded their new teammate. At 20.20 CET the President left Milanello.

A.C. MILAN OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

8/28/2010

MILAN – A.C. MILAN announces the acquisition of the player Zlatan Ibrahimovic from F.C. Barcelona, through a free loan with the option to purchase the athlete’s playing rights for € 24 million at the end of the season 2010-2011. The Swedish champion will go through the medical exams tomorrow morning, before signing the contract that will tie him to the Rossonero club for four years.

What I have been listening to lately #59

2010-08-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

Itchycoo Park - The Small Faces

More official announcements from Milan

2010-08-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Regarding the UEFA Champions League draw, in which Milan grouped with Real Madrid, Ajax, and AJ Auxerre:

ALLEGRI: ‘Group of death’

8/26/2010

MILAN – Milan coach Massimo Allegri’s comments about the Champions League draw: ‘Our group and that of Inter is certainly the most difficult one. Both of us will face tough and well-prepared teams. Obviously, playing against Real Madrid is exciting, it’s a fascinating match-up. The San Siro and the Santiago Bernabeu will be sold-out as a spectacle is guaranteed. Ajax and Auxerre advanced through the preliminaries making a great impression, they are opponents to be feared. We have to play all these games always maintaining high concentration and full fitness. It’s a group of death, but we’ll play like Milan.’

Regarding the possible transfer of Zlatan Ibrahimovic:

GALLIANI: ‘We postpone everything until tomorrow’
8/26/2010
MILAN – Milan CEO Adriano Galliani’scomments after the meeting held in Barcelona with blaugrana president Sandro Rosell: “We have been chatted and discussed the terms. We know Barcelona’s position and now we’ll consider it. We postpone things until tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, after all the transfer window is open until Tuesday. I’ll stay here, I won’t go to Monte Carlo and I think I won’t come to the San Siro for the match on Sunday evening, either. Our position and that of Barcelona is very clear. We’ll go to the bitter ends for Ibrahimovic. I’d say now we have a 50% chance of getting him. In the meantime the eventual alternative would be Robinho I’d like to point out that Borriello will stay at Milan, while as for Huntelaar, we are in negotiations with another team. We’ll see. Now I’ll talk to Ibrahimovic, as I was authorised by president Rosell’.

One more transfer rumor

2010-08-25T16:35:00.000-07:00

WE WILL TRY

8/25/2010 8:23:00 PM

Adriano Galliani has been speaking from Barcelona on the negotiations to bring Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Milan which are ongoing.

(In the photo: ADRIANO GALLIANI IN BARCELONA TODAY)

MILAN – Speaking to Milan Channel from Barcelona, Adriano Galliani takes stock of the situation on the meeting with Barcelona and the negotiations that are underway for Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

“Negotiations will continue tomorrow. Tomorrow at noon I have an appointment with the president of Barcelona. Let's see. The negotiations are very complex, very difficult, very expensive, but the relationship with Sandro Rosell is really good and he is very nice. The will of Barcelona is to sell the player to Milan, the availability of the player also like that. There is a lot of money to overcome and this is the difficulty.

“But I would point out that there are not any other moves being made by Milan. There is Borriello, there is Huntelaar. I often see in the papers that they are part of the transfer, but there is no truth in that. We are here to try to take Ibrahimovic to Milan, that’s all. There are other hypotheses on the table.

“I will not deceive anyone but I will not even say that we do it for sure. I will try and that’s why I am here, I do not move, even it means not going to Milan against Lecce on Sunday. I do all that is in my ability and capacity to try to bring this great champion to Milan. It is very difficult.

"What effect has made me to see Ibra at the stadium? The effect is as great as always, a great champion who has absolutely given his willingness to come to Milan. Now we must solve the problem.”

Transfer news: Kevin Prince Boateng is coming to Milan

2010-08-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

A.C.MILAN OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

8/18/2010

A.C. MILAN announce that the club has signed Kevin Prince Boateng on loan from Genoa Cfc.

Top photo: Boateng playing for Ghana at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Bottom photo: Boateng failing to score a penalty kick against Chelsea at the FA Cup back in May. Additionally in the same match, Boateng injured Chelsea's Michael Ballack which prevented the German from appearing for his country at the World Cup.

Transfer news: Mario Balotelli joins Manchester City

2010-08-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

After weeks of rumors and news, Inter Milan's Mario Balotelli has finally officially joined Manchester City.

In case you've forgotten the details of Balotelli's career in Italy, we have provided this helpful link.

Brazil's Worst TV

2010-08-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

While I'm on a blog writing role, and since TV is such an inspiring topic, I'm going to give you a review of Brazil's worst TV (and don't worry, there was plenty of bad TV to pick from!). My suggestion, if moving to Brazil, invest in Sky Gato (Brazil's hijacked version of cable) so you can watch Friends with Portuguese subtitles to your heart's content...

I guess I'll just start off with the worst and get the shock over with. Maybe it's a Brazilian thing, but foreigners will NEVER be able to ajust to Panico... Maybe we just get kind of uncomfortable with the 10 second butt close ups. Or maybe we're just too mature for poop fights. Or maybe we no longer have the sense of humor of a five year old and like to see people hitting each other, making fun of each other, making fun of other people, and eating whatever they can blend together. But to a lot of the Brazilian's that I met, puke is fun! So, after that flattering introduction, I hope it can stand up to the expectations!Give it up for your favorite, 12 year old boy humor style show, PANICO!

I hope you're all as disturbed as the rest of Brazil was when we saw that... But if that wasn't enough, how bought a little beach action with Antonio Nunes?

So yeah... Panico is just... bad.

My next show on Brazil's Worst, will have to be ... our very own... Woody Woodpecker! Otherwise known as the national hero, Pica Pau! It's not really any worse in Portuguese than in English, but it's still... Pica Pau...

Next up is " Vai da Namoro! " The thing about this show, is that I rather enjoy watching it, but even I can admit that it's just a very, very stupid show. It's a dating show that's inherently pretty simple. Pair them up, make them kiss, with little intervals of the presenter dancing in women's clothes.

Then, when you pass the five good channels, you will enter the territory of the truly wretched. This includes, almost exclusively, religious TV, and "rural tv." And I have an example of the latter right here: The "Virtual Auctions" show almost 24/7 and are a great chance to get a view of the local livestock! They can be yours, with just one call! And it is essentially this for ... all the time.

And how about some of that religious tv for ya'? Basic Idea: (Ex): Man is chronically ill, preacher preaches for him, he is cured. Hint on how hokey this is? Not even the Brazilian's believe any of it.

Okay, I think with that I'll leave you for the night, but now without letting you see my personal least favorite, often shown on any give 5/30 of the "working channels" during any given moment:

But don't worry! It's not all THIS bad!

Brazilian Soap Opera Openers!

2010-08-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

During my year in Brazil, I was exposed to almost 20 different (and all eagerly followed by the local population) soap operas, called Novelas! In Brazil, Novela is a way of life, and by living there, you will hear their theme songs enough to have them permanently ingrained in your soul. So these following clips are songs that will stay with me forever- for better... or worse. :S

This first is from the novela, Viver a Vida (Live Life), which was the evening novela, and therefore the most popular, during my most important TV watching months (aka, the last few, when I actually understood the stuff they said) :

This Novela, was replacing one from earlier on in the year, called Caminho das Indias (translated by the International Soap Opera awards- or whatever they're called - as " India, a Love Story." But I'd called it "The Indian Way." ). I got to Brazil when this Novela was in it's heyday. And I hated it... being that I couldn't actually understand a single word that they said. But the Indian style music is pretty catchy!

Now we have my personal favorite, a Novela that was actually shown for the second time, Alma Gemea. This one really represented my growth in the Portuguese language, because I started watching her when I first arrived and didn't understand a word, and by the end, I was hanging on every word. This is a "spritualist" novela, so (spoiler alert!) ends with the lovers dying, but being reborn as other couples in the future, and the villain bursting into flames and seeing images of her wrong deeds among the flames. Oh well, all's well that ends well.... And I can sing the whole theme song!

And here is the next Spiritualist Novela... Esctiro nas Estelas (Written in the Stars), which I would watch under NO circumstances... It's like... Dude, I'm sorry your son died and is watching you, but can we like... get over ourselves now?

Okay, this next one is really tough for me. This Novela, Paraiso, (I'm sorry I'm missing the accents), was one of the worst things I saw on Brazilian TV. And that is a REALLY impressive thing... I mean, the opening scene is about horses in love... which is cute, but misleading, because the show is mostly about middle aged people's romantic difficulties... But on the other hand, I LOVE this song by Vitor e Leo! So normally, I'd just watch the opening and then turn the TV off!

And finally, (though not the last of the Novelas, but a long run!), my personal favorite song: the theme from Caras e Bocas (Faces and Mouths). This Novela was pretty silly (okay, downright stupid. I mean, it ended with monkeys falling in love....) it had it's dramatic moments (picture this: blind lady's fiance takes her out to a river, falls, hits his head, and she is now left to find a way home and save them both!) and I found it watchable when Everybody Hate's Chris (Todo Mundo Odeia Chris) wasn't on.

Shevchenko steals some reporter's wallet

2010-08-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last month, Dynamo Kiev beat KAA Gent in a Champions League qualifying round match. After the game, Dynamo's Andriy Shevchenko (who had earlier scored a goal) picked this reporter's pocket. Or, as the description on the video says: "Shevchenko after game has stolen purse at the journalist."

What I have been reading lately #49/Abandoned books and/or movies #10

2010-08-01T07:43:00.001-07:00

Two books that I finished:

Law of the Jungle: The Hunt for Colombian Guerrillas, American Hostages, and Buried Treasure-- John Otis

Pretty much what it sounds like-- three American contractors (spies) crash in the Colombian jungle and are captured by guerrillas from the FARC. The soldiers from the Colombian army sent out to rescue them get distracted by a large stash of money they find buried in the ground. I won't give away what happens next.

War by Candlelight-- Daniel Alarcon

Above: The cover of the US edition, which I read

Below: The much better cover of the UK edition

Daniel Alarcon is originally from Peru but apparently grew up in Alabama. This collection of short stories is written in English and is his first book. I enjoyed reading this book, but now, just a couple of weeks later, I can't remember much about it.

One book that I did not finish:

Endless Horizon: A Very Messy Motorcycle Journey Around the World-- Dan Walsh

At first I was really enjoying this, but then I wasn't. So I stopped reading it.

Happy birthday to Adriano Galliani

2010-07-30T09:34:00.001-07:00

BIRTHDAY WISHES TO ADRIANO GALLIANI

7/30/2010

MILAN - Today is the birthday of Adriano Galliani. Our most sincere best wishes go to the managing director of Milan, at the head of the club since 1986, 24 years of enthusiasm and passion for the Rossoneri.

Michael Essien accidentally injures a young fan

2010-07-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

From a pre-season friendly between Chelsea and Crystal Palace

There will be at least two new Milan players this season

2010-07-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

Above: Mario Yepes, formerly of Chievo Verona

Above: Sokratis Papastathopoulos, formerly of Genoa

Pato's Divorce

2010-07-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

As we all should know, Alexandre Pato is currently in the process of a divorce with his actress wife, Sthefany Brito. Recently, a judge has ruled that he will have to pay her 20% of his income every month: about 100,000 Euros. The payment will be made on the 10th of every month. Poor Pato will have to appeal this!

http://www.kickette.com/sthefany-brito-yulia-arshavin-good-money-on-bad-denim/#more-33502

http://ego.globo.com/Gente/Noticias/0,,MUL1606516-9798,00-STHEFANY+BRITO+CONSEGUE+PENSAO+DE+DOS+GANHOS+DE+PATO.html

What I have been reading lately #48

2010-07-12T10:21:00.001-07:00

The Skating Rink-- Roberto Bolano

Methland: The Death and Life of an American Small Town -- Nick Reding

Tattoo Machine: Tall Tales, True Stories, and My Life in Ink -- Jeff Johnson

Self Explanatory...

2010-07-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Brasil x Holland

What I have been listening to lately #58

2010-07-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

Move On Up -- Curtis Mayfield

What I have been listening to lately #57

2010-07-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

Satellite by Lena (winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2010)

What I have been reading lately #47

2010-07-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Cantona: The Rebel Who Would Be King - Philippe Auclair

Cantona after court

Why Cantona had to go to court

Cantona highlights

A specific Cantona highlight

Cantona in Turkey

Cantona throws his jersey

Cantona makes a tackle

Cantona's team prevented from going to the 1994 FIFA World Cup finals

Same video as above--"God is Bulgarian!"

World Cup Update #5: Best National Anthems

2010-06-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here are the best national anthems of the teams at this year's World Cup Finals (presented in alphabetical order)--

Brazil

Cameroon

Italy

Spain

Uruguay

And the best national anthem of a team not at this year's finals--

World Cup Update #4: north Korea will be missed

2010-06-26T06:36:00.001-07:00

For an article about north Korean player Jong Tae-se, click here.

To see video footage of the north Korean national team at the Johannesburg Zoo, click here.

World Cup Update #3: The group stage is over

2010-06-25T14:19:00.001-07:00

Here are some important statistics from the group stage of the 2010 World Cup:

Teams that won all three of their matches: Argentina, Netherlands
Teams that lost all three of their matches: Cameroon, north Korea
Teams that allowed no goals in the group stage: Uruguay, Portugal
Teams that scored no goals in the group stage: Algeria, Honduras

Most goals scored: Argentina, Portugal (7)
Most goals allowed: north Korea (12)

Milan players who have appeared at the World Cup: Zambrotta, Pirlo, Gattuso (Italy); Adiyiah (Ghana); Huntelaar (Netherlands); Onyewu (United States)
Milan players who have scored at the World Cup: Huntelaar
Milan players who have not appeared at the World Cup: Thiago Silva (Brazil)

Milan have a new coach

2010-06-25T09:06:00.001-07:00

A.C. MILAN OFFICIAL NOTE

6/25/2010

MILAN - A.C. Milan communicate that Massimiliano Allegri is the new coach of the First Team.
The coach has signed a contract until 30 June 2012.

THE COACH IS ALLEGRI!
6/25/2010 3:42:00 PM
Freshness, youth, determination. That's the human and professional baggage of Massimiliano Allegri, whose offensive vocation embarks at Milanello and on the Rossoneri's bench. Good luck coach! From the heart.
MILAN - Massimiliano Allegri, born on 11 August 1967 in Livorno, is our new coach. Now it's official. The announcement arrived today. All the Rossoneri fans are very satisfied. The wait made the moment even more gratifying.
As a player, his journey in Serie A took six years, from 1992 to 1998 with Pescara, Cagliari and Napoli. In reality his professional activity has been 19 years long, starting in 1984. The new Rossoneri coach ended his career on the pitch in the same summer, 2003, when Milan became European champions for the sixth time in Manchester.
As a coach, Massimiliano Allegri has worked in all categories, starting in Serie C2 with Aglianese, then in C1 with Spal, Grosseto, and Sassuolo. In Emilia, at the court of a great Rossoneri fan like Giorgio Squinzi, Allegri earned the promotion to Serie B and won the C1 Supercoppa.
Then, Cagliari. Massimiliano Allegri's destiny subtly started to cross that of Milan while he was on the Sardinians' bench.
In the first five matches of the 2008/2009 season, Cagliari always lost, despite playing well. On the sixth matchday, there was Cagliari-Milan at the Sant'Elia. Carlo Ancelotti's Rossoneri were coming off the derby victory at San Siro with Ronaldinho's goal and the Uefa qualification obtained in Zurich. The predictions were all for a Rossoneri victory, but the match finished goalless with many chances for the home side. Allegri obtained the first point of a great season (ninth place in the end for the Rossoblu, 53 points, victory in Turin against Juventus and a draw away to Inter after Acquafresca's opening goal), against the Rossoneri. For the 2008/2009 season, Allegri won the 'Golden Bench' award, given to the best coach according to Serie A and B coaches.
As a footballer, Allegri played at Pescara alongside Stefano Borgonovo, who's still very connected to the Rossoneri colors, and scored his first goal in a spectacular Pescara-Milan on 13 September 1992: it finished 5-4 for Milan with a hat-trick by a certain Marco Van Basten, whose heel has often been talked about during this summer.

Milan have a new goalkeeper

2010-06-23T05:45:00.001-07:00

A.C. MILAN OFFICIAL NOTE

6/23/2010

A.C. Milan communicate the acquisition of MARCO AMELIA from Genoa, with the right to claim the compartecipation, and the definitive sale of MARCO STORARI to FC Juventus.

The two photos above are of Marco Amelia. The photo below is of Marco Storari.

The US' Chances to make it through the group stage...

2010-06-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

I am rooting for the US.

So, after yesterday's (unrightful) draw with Slovenia, and England's draw with Algeria, it stands like this:

Slovenia: 4 points

USA: 2 points

England: 2 points

Algeria: 1 point

Ways for the US to Get Through:

England beats Slovenia, USA wins
Slovenia beats England, USA wins
Slovenia beats England, USA ties
England and Slovenia tie, USA wins
England and Slovenia tie, USA ties (this is only a possibility, there would be a tie between England and the US on points and the tiebreaker would be goal differencial).

There is a total of 9 possible combinations of results of the two next games... Now, we just have to wait and see if the US can pull off the result!

PS. It's weird being patriotic...

World Cup Update #2: Highlights so far

2010-06-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

Disturbing summer 2010 transfer rumor #1

2010-06-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Milan To Move For Roma's Philippe Mexes If Thiago Silva Leaves - Report

The Frenchman could be used to replace the Brazilian...

By Rick D'Andrea

Jun 14, 2010 1:01:00 AM

Milan has revealed that Roma defender Philippe Mexescould be brought to the Rossoneri should Thiago Silvaleave for Manchester City.

The Eastlands club has put an offer for the Brazilian in excess of €30 million, with the Diavoli finding it difficult to refuse, according to Itasportpress.it.

Silva has also requested that the side raise his salary, in order for him to stay.

Mexes was already a target of the Italian giants, but the Frenchman recently stated that it was his intention to stay at the Giallorossi despite seeing little game time during the second half of the season.

Scenes from the Derby della Madonnina in the recent past

2010-06-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

Please pay careful attention. I am not sure what any of this means, however.

World Cup Update #1: Laser pointers

2010-06-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

In just three days, there has already been a lot of complaining about the ball, the quasi-artificial pitch at some stadiums, and the vuvuzelas. Not much has been made, however, of the fact that Lionel Messi and others were menaced with a laser pointer in yesterday's Argentina-Nigeria match.

Why I will not be rooting for the USA (or Honduras) in the World Cup

2010-06-07T17:44:00.000-07:00

Back in October of 2009, the United States faced Costa Rica in its final qualification match. The U.S. team had already clinched a spot in the 2010 World Cup, so the game was meaningless to them, but Costa Rica's qualification depended on earning a win. The late goal by Jonathan Bornstein meant that Costa Rica had to take on Uruguay in a playoff for one last chance to go to South Africa. Uruguay won, so Costa Rica will be watching from home this year.

Obviously, people in Honduras were quite happy (and have even made Bornstein something of a hero), but I can only imagine what the Costa Ricans must have thought as they witnessed the U.S. players and fans going beserk over a completely meaningless goal.

Maybe this is the U.S. team's way of making up for the U.S. approved coup in Honduras last year.

What's wrong with this picture?

2010-06-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

On the Sports Illustrated for kids website SIKids.com, there is a photo display of World Cup X Factors-- players who may make the difference for their team in the 2010 World Cup. The photo above is captioned "Kaka". Can you tell what is wrong with this picture?

Happy birthdays to Ambrosini and Bonera

2010-05-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Above: Massimo Ambrosini (May 29)

Below: Daniele Bonera (May 31)

Great moments in World Cup history #8

2010-05-31T15:43:00.000-07:00

World Cup 2006: Maxi Rodriguez scores for Argentina against Mexico in extra time.

Great moments in World Cup history #7

2010-05-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

Here are four different views of the same goal-- Fabio Grosso's against Germany deep into extra time of the 2006 semifinals. All four are worth watching. This is basically the goal that convinced me to root for Italy in the final against France.

English version

American Version

Italian version

Official FIFA movie version

Great moments in World Cup history #6

2010-05-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

Portugal defeated England on penalties in the quarterfinals of the 2006 World Cup.

A random, but interesting, red card

2010-05-30T20:40:00.000-07:00

It seems like the Portuguese often get involved in things like this.

The NBA finals are set-- it's Lakers vs. Celtics

2010-05-30T10:44:00.001-07:00

Here are a few random images and videos from the Lakers-Suns series. (Above-- Ron Artest sinks the game winning shot in Game 5)

Above and below: Fellow Slovenians Goran Dragic (#2) and Sasha Vujacic (#18) right before and after Dragic was fouled. (See video below)

Also: Dragic scores on a nice lay-up earlier in the series--

Below: Kobe Bryant right after making a crucial shot at the end of Game 6.

And, finally, Big Baby Davis of the Boston Celtics gets knocked out by Dwight Howard

What I have been listening to lately #56

2010-05-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Nas & Damien Marley--As We Enter

I watched an entire season of soccer for this?

2010-05-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan won this year's Coppa Italia (goal by Milito). They won the Scudetto on the final day (goal by Milito). Then they won the Champions League final (2-0, goals by Milito-- when I wrote that Milito was a player to watch out for, I didn't mean latter that same day). The only remaining question was how quickly Jose Mourinho would announce that he is leaving Inter Milan. The only bright spot for AC Milan fans is that Inter's win means that that Serie A will still have four Champions League slots instead of three (at least for the next couple of years). I am not sure why anyone would want to watch the highlights, but here they are.

Let the transfer (and other) rumors begin

2010-05-22T09:59:00.000-07:00

The following items are from goal.com/en-india:

Saturday 22 May 2010

1:55 PM
Transfer Zone Milan Target Massimiliano Allegri In Talks With Silvio Berlusconi - Report

Friday 21 May 2010

Thursday 20 May 2010

Wednesday 19 May 2010

Tuesday 18 May 2010

Monday 17 May 2010

Sunday 16 May 2010

Saturday 15 May 2010

Friday 14 May 2010

Thursday 13 May 2010

Wednesday 12 May 2010

Page 1 2 3 4 5 6

Champions League history: The 1994 Final

2010-05-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

The match was played in Athens on May 18, 1994. Milan beat Barcelona 4-0.

My new favorite Japanese soccer team

2010-05-22T07:16:00.001-07:00

I think the reasons should be obvious.

World Cup Preview: Players to watch out for

2010-05-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

Above: Diego Milito (Argentina/Inter Milan)

Above: Wesley Sneijder (Holland/Inter Milan)

Above: Antonio Di Natale (Italy/Udinese)

Above: Nadir Belhadj (Algeria/Portsmouth)

A series of official announcements from AC Milan

2010-05-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

A.C. MILAN OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

5/21/2010

MILAN - A.C. Milan announces that the footballer Filippo Inzaghi has extended his contract until June 30, 2011.

INZAGHI: "The rapport with Milan is special"

5/21/2010

MILAN - Pippo Inzaghi commented to Milan Channel about his contract renewal with Milan: "I'm happy, because my intent was that of ending the career with this shirt. In these days I thought that trying to beat Gerd Muller's record with another shirt would not be fair. The rapport with Milan is special, I'm happy because once again the club proved all of its affect for what I did, I'm doin and will continue to do. I'm happy to be well and I have important objectives."

INZAGHI: "I'm after Muller, Van Basten and Baggio..."

5/21/2010

MILAN - Pippo Inzaghi again: "I'm happy of being fine and of being able to still give my contriution. Everyone knows that I have precise objectives to reach. First of all that of being useful for Milan, helping the team to win and then beating two records. That of Gerd Muller in the European cups (69 goals against 68, Inzaghi is one goal away from the German), which has lasted for 35 years, to which I really want to beat, and that of Marco Van Basten... I'm three goals away from him in the Rossoneri's shirt, reaching it or equalling it would be fantastic also because everyone knows what he did and who he is. I'm after Van Basten for the goals with Milan and Baggio for the career goals (Baggio has a total of 318 goals). Going together for the 10th consecutive year is a nice satisfaction. Everyone remembers the wins we have obtained together, I have already received a lot from this club and I have great motivations."

FA Cup aftermath: Michael Ballack will miss the World Cup

2010-05-18T05:37:00.001-07:00

Above: Michael Ballack lies injured on the ground and Kevin-Prince Boateng receives a yellow card.

Germany's Michael Ballack will miss this summer's World Cup due to an injury he received playing for Chelsea in last weekend's FA Cup. The injury came on a reckless tackle by Portsmouth's Kevin-Prince Boateng. Boateng, who was born in Germany, will be playing for Ghana in this year's tournament. Ghana and Germany will meet each other on June 23. Boateng will now be remembered for more than just missing a penalty that could have given Portsmouth the lead.

AC Milan extends Oguchi Onyewu's contract

2010-05-18T05:35:00.000-07:00

OGUCHI ONYEWU: A WORTHY GESTURE

5/17/2010

MILAN - USA international Oguchi Onyewu, who is coming off a season of rehabilitation following a long injury which has forced him to stay off the pitch for the whole season, but is now ready to face the World Cup with his national team, made a very significant gesture from a human and professional point of view today. Assisted by his lawyer, Jean Louis Dupont, Onyewu asked for, and received, a one-year contract extension from Milan, from 30 June 2012 to 30 June 2013. During this extra year, Oguchi Onyewu, by his choice, much appreciated by the Rossoneri club, has asked not to receive any kind of salary. This is an exemplary gesture which deserves sincere congratulations.

My third favorite Milan goal of the season

2010-05-18T05:31:00.000-07:00

Clarence Seedorf's winner against Chievo Verona. This goal pulled Milan to within one point of first place and represents the high water mark for the season.

A favorite Champions League moment from 2009-2010

2010-05-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

From the group stage-- 10/20/09 Barcelona 1 - Rubin Kazan 2

Here's a different view-

AC Milan 2009-2010 Season Statistical Highlights

2010-05-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Here are the statistical leaders for AC Milan during the 2009-2010 Serie A season:

Most games played: Ronaldinho (36)

Most games started: Ronaldinho (34)

Most minutes played: Andrea Pirlo (2952)

Most minutes played without scoring a goal (goalies excluded): Andrea Pirlo (2952)*

Most goals scored: Marco Borriello (14)

Most yellow cards: Massimo Ambrosini & Mathieu Flamini (10)

Most red cards: Massimo Ambrosini & Mathieu Flamini (2)

Fewest minutes played (of players who appeared at all): Rodney Strasser (7)

*Pirlo's amazing goal against Real Madrid came in the Champions League.

Below: Gennaro Gattuso received eight yellow cards this season. Here is a picture of the last one.

Still my favorite goal of the year

2010-05-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

Andrea Pirlo scores to make it 1-1 against Real Madrid in the Champions League

To see my second favorite goal of the year (Inzaghi's game winner in Milan's 2-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille), click here.

Serie A update: Massimo Moratti celebrates his birthday

2010-05-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Italian oil tycoon Massimo Moratti (pictured above) celebrated his 65th birthday today by traveling to Siena to watch the team he owns (Inter Milan) play against 19th place AC Siena. Inter needed either a win or a Roma tie/loss in order to win their fifth straight Serie A title. At one point in the second half, however, Roma were winning and Inter were still stuck in a goalless draw.

Luckily for Mr. Moratti, Diego Milito finally scored for Inter (see photo below) and Inter went on to win 1-0.

Below: Zanetti and Milito (right) celebrate the game's only goal

Above: Inter celebrate

Below: Inter coach Jose Mourinho waves his commemorative t-shirt. Up next for Inter-- the Champions League final against Bayern Munich

Some people might say, "Happy birthday, Massimo Moratti!" Those sorts of people might also enjoy watching the highlights below. Others wouldn't.

Match report: Milan 3 - Juventus 0

2010-05-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Goals scored: Antonini 14', Ronaldinho 29', 67'
What happened: Antonini scored the first goal of his AC Milan career. Ronaldinho scored two goals. The Juventus fans set off numerous explosions and sang derogatory songs and had to be warned over the public address system that play would be halted if they did not stop.
Aggregate score of the two Milan-Juventus matches this season: 6-0 (Milan)
Reasons why fans of both teams were unhappy: Juventus finished in seventh place and had a truly terrible season (for them). Milan did about as well as can be expected and finished in third. Milan fans are upset that the team has not spent more money to bring in top quality players in recent years and also that first year coach Leonardo (pictured above congratulating Antonini on his goal and pictured below being bid farewell by his team) is being forced out by Silvio Berlusconi. The fans repeatedly sang songs in honor of Leonardo until he acknowledged them with a wave.

Below: Milan fans with an enormous set of banners. The internet translates the bottom one as "President failed AWOL".

Milan personnel who officially said goodbye at today's match: Leonardo and Favalli
Milan personnel who may have played their last match for the team today: Dida, Inzaghi, Ronaldinho, and about a dozen others
What this match teaches us: Milan's Serie A 2009-2010 season is over. This means that my daughter will soon be home from her (almost) year in Brazil.

Below are highlights:

Below you can watch the Milan players and staff force Leonardo to come out on the pitch for one last goodbye:

NHL Playoff update: Flyers 4 - Bruins 3

2010-05-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

The Bruins were leading both the series and then Game 7 3-0, but ended up losing both. Philadelphia will now face the Montreal Canadiens in the Eastern Conference finals. In the west, it will be the Chicago Blackhawks versus the San Jose Sharks.

FA Cup Final: Chelsea 1 - Portsmouth 0

2010-05-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Above: Portsmouth players attempt to console Kevin-Prince Boateng after he missed a penalty that would have given Portsmouth the lead. Moments later, Drogba scored to put Chelsea ahead.

Portsmouth's season has been a complete disaster-- relegated from the Premier League, unable to pay their players and creditors, facing possible bankruptcy. Somehow, though, they managed to make it all the way to the FA Cup Final against Chelsea. Somehow they managed to survive a first half in which Chelsea hit the goal post/cross bar five times. Somehow they managed to win a penalty early in the second half. Boateng, however, rather than scoring, managed to drive his shot straight into the feet of the diving Petr Cech. Not surprisingly, at the end of the match, Boateng could be seen on the bench with a jacket over his head to hide the fact the he was crying.

World soccer update

2010-05-09T19:08:00.001-07:00

Above: Inter manager Jose Mourinho runs onto the field to grab a stray ball. (There also seems to be a balloon on the pitch as well.)

At one point today, first place Inter Milan were beating Chievo Verona 4-2, and Roma were losing to Cagliari 1-0. The Inter fans began celebrating, believing that the Scudetto was theirs. But then Cheivo scored, Roma scored, and then Roma scored again, and the crowd became quiet. When it was all over, both Roma and Inter had won, so the Scudetto will not be decided until next weekend, the final weekend of the season.

In other news, Chelsea beat Wigan Athletic 8-0, winning them the Premier League title. Believe it or not, eight is not the largest number of goals conceded by Wigan this season-- they gave up nine against Tottenham back in November. (Remember this the next time some Premier League-supremacist starts going on about the UK being the land of fair play and competitive football.)

Below: Chelsea celebrate their championship