Bleacher Report - Articles by Jonathon Duffy

UFC 100: Who the Hell Is Marketing It?

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 06:53:31 -0400

HEY, WHEN IS THE NEXT BIG UFC EVENT?

What? Next Saturday? 100th event?

Lesnar vs. Mir? Henderson vs. Bisping? GSP vs. Alves?

How did I not hear about this?

The answer: It's because I live in the United Kingdom.

WHO THE HELL IS MARKETING THIS EVENT OVER HERE?

A UFC event never catches my interest until the week proceeding to the event, when all the big press conferences and weigh ins are held.

But I only know about this because I am a UFC fan, and I visit UFC and MMA websites regularly.

I don't know if the same applies in the United States, but UFC never seems to build up any hype this side of the Atlantic.

When WWE has a big event, like WrestleMania, it is advertised on Sky Sports.

Yes, I know they are the ones exclusively showing it, but at least it's being advertised.

Setanta, which used to air all UFC pay-per-views, is now bankrupt. And it wasn't even a popular channel, or free.

But the thing that shocks me the most is how they are not taking advantage of Michael Bisping.

He is British, right?

Just look at the hype any big Ricky Hatton fight gets here in the United Kingdom.

This should be the perfect way to introduce new audiences in Britain to the world of MMA.

As for the main event, everyone that has even the smallest of interests in MMA or Pro Wrestling is likely to know who Brock Lesnar is. What a massive draw he is worldwide.

He's big in Japan after doing many wrestling matches there. I hope their taking advantage of that opportunity.

And after nearly 400,000 people watch The Ultimate Fighter: Team UK vs Team USA, you would expect all of those people to want to see the two coaches battle it out!

Good news: UFC 100 will now be aired on Virgin 1, the same channel that aired TUF. It is available to most people in the UK now.

It will be interesting to see if Dana White can create some hype over here, because it only needs a bit of mainstream recognition to launch itself even higher in an ever-growing worldwide fanbase.

The Greatest Quotes of Muhammad Ali

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 09:40:17 -0400

- "I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale; handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalised a brick; I'm so mean I make medicine sick." - Muhammad Ali, 1974. Muhammad Ali is not only recognised as the greatest boxer in history, but as one of the greatest entertainers in history. And the best way for him to sum up his greatness was by using his very own quotes. Many of these quotes increased his global appeal and unmatched popularity. These quotes have become more famous than many Presidential quotes. Here we view the best of the best . . .

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Super Se7en: Is Cristiano Ronaldo A United Legend?

Jonathon Duffy — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:34:22 -0400

Other than hundreds of Man Bag and hair grease manufacturers, Manchester has lost it's very own "Special One."

We all know what he has done in his six seasons at Manchester United, but is he a United legend?

Now "legend" is a big word. It doesn't apply to anyone. The term gets thrown about on a daily basis in the football world.

But I'm talking about the real legends.

Men who not only were great players, but will be remembered for the next 50 years!

Bobby Charlton, George Best and Dennis Law. These were players who were in their prime mostly in the 1960s. But they are still well known, not just around Manchester United, but around Britain and the world.

Most British football fans would recognise Bobby Charlton or Dennis Law walking around the street today, despite looking 50 years older! Even many young fans would notice them.

Sir Matt Busby's name is still mentioned quite often in the media. The young Duncan Edwards, who sadly died in the Munich Air Crash, never got to become the great player he was destined to be. But, he is still a United legend, and well known to many football fans as the player that could have had it all.

Brian Robson, Eric Cantona, Peter Schmeichel and David Beckham are some of the latest list of former United players who reached "legendary" status.

These players all played a lot longer than six seasons. And considering Ronaldo was a shadow of what he is today in his first two or three years at Man United, he has done pretty well to be considered a United legend.

No doubt he will be a legend in football. But will he be best remembered as a Real Madrid player or a Manchester United player?

He won three league titles, two league cups, an FA Cup and he's been in the Champions League Final twice, winning it in 2008 after scoring United's first goal.

And don't forget he was named FIFA World Player of the Year and won the Ballon d'Or.

And he's made the back pages of the papers, as well as the front page, fashion section, financial section and just about any other part of a daily newspaper!

He was a true Global Superstar at Man U, a pin up and an icon, not to forget that he may be the most talented individual in their history—or at least George Best's equal for those long time fans.

My verdict: He is a Man United legend great, but not an All Time Legend!

That's something no one can achieve in six years. Wayne Rooney will be the next on that list, after Giggs, I am sure.

He will always be remembered for his time at Old Trafford.

And he is the only man that could ever become more famous in their No. 7 shirt than his predecessor, David Beckham.

What do you think?

I really want your comments and opinions, thanks.

U.S.-Spain: Upset of the Decade

Jonathon Duffy — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:59:36 -0400

The United States of America have sensationally pulled off the biggest upset of the last decade in the football world after beating European champions Spain 2-0.

Jozy Altidore scored after 30 minutes. A perfect chip from Charlie Davies to his feet allowed Altidore to smash the ball straight at Iker Casillas, the Spanish goalkeeper, who made a rare mistake as the ball bounced off him and into the goal.

From that point forward, the U.S. fought for their lives, literally. As Spain pressed forward with wave after wave of attacks, the "best team in the world" could not get past the Americans—and Tim Howard.

In the second half, Spain gave everything they had against the U.S. Shot after shot was saved by Howard, cross after cross was cleared, and pass after pass was intercepted.

Despite looking very tired, the Americans bravely fought on with so much hard work and passion. They chased every loose ball, closed down every player, and jumped in front of every Spanish shot at goal.

It seemed like the U.S. were superheroes, as Spain amazingly couldn't score.

America had no energy to hit Spain on the counter, but Benny Feilhaber used every bit of energy left in him to run at the defenders in a rare attack, and he found Landon Donovan, who put the ball across the goal. It bounced off Gerard Pique's (Spain) heels, and it seemed like Sergio Ramos was going to clear it comfortably.

But Clint Dempsey appeared out of nowhere to shoot and score in a moment I could never describe. Ramos looked shocked and lost as the USA celebrated.

But Spain continued attacking, showing the most passion maybe ever seen in international football, and I am not exaggerating.

Americans have new idols to look up to. Their boys should have made the whole nation proud! It was truly unbelievable and exhausting!

Donovan was everywhere on the field, Dempsey never gave up, and Davies held the key to victory. The back four of Oguchi Onyewu, Jay DeMerit, Carlos Bocanegra, and Jonathan Spector would have put their lives on the line tonight just to win. Howard was the Man of the Match, making save after save after save.

He really was the best goalkeeper in the world tonight!

Well done America. Even if the U.S. team don't even have the energy to walk out onto the field in the Confederations Cup final on Sunday, they will always be remembered as the most dedicated, passionate, and brave soccer team in recent history!

What makes this so unbelievable is that Spain had been undefeated for nearly three years! They are the European champions, have the longest winning streak in international soccer history, and are the best team in the world, as well as favourites to win the World Cup next year—and in a way, they were outplayed.

This is what makes football "The Beautiful Game."

Confederations Cup Latest: U.S. Sensationally Beating Spain 1-0

Jonathon Duffy — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:30:23 -0400

The United States is sensationally leading the best team in the world, Spain, in the first semifinal match of the Confederations Cup.

The U.S. got their break on 30 minutes, when Charlie Davies beautifully chipped the ball to Jozy Altidore, who shot from just inside the penalty box. The ball bounced off Iker Casillas, Spain's goalkeeper, in a rare mistake by the Spanish captain.

Spain then turned on the pressure. But great "last ditch" defending by the USA kept them out.

Spain's Fernando Torres made a great run into the penalty box, cutting inside and firing into the bottom corner, but Tim Howard got his legs in the way, and the ball bounced straight to a Spanish player. Some brave defending by Clint Dempsey got the ball away in time.

As it stands, Landon Donovan must be the hardest-working player out there!

Make sure you watch the second half, as the United States may cause the biggest upset in soccer in over a decade!

The 12 Potential Football "Bargains" of the Summer

Jonathon Duffy — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:11:43 -0400

While the football/soccer world talks about Ronaldo, Kaka, Ribery, David Villa and Ibrahimovich moving for sums of £60, £70 or £80 million, we look at the less talked about rumours that could prove to be better! With Ronaldo's £80,000,000 transfer being finished, a world class player for just a sixth of the price seems like a bargain! It was only 10 years ago people were complaining about £20,000,000 being too much money for a footballer. Here is a list of players that could prove to be better buys than the Ronaldos and Riberys of the world . . .

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Rise and Fall of the Original Ronaldo

Jonathon Duffy — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:25:36 -0400

He was voted the best player on the planet a record 3 times! He played for the biggest clubs in Europe, he's won many titles as well as the FIFA World Cup twice with Brazil, and was the top scorer in 2002. He lived a life of luxury and fame, attending huge parties and mixing with the rich, famous and the beautiful. He has scored an amazing total of 398 goals in 576 games! So how has the World forgotten him? And how can he only be the second most famous Ronaldo in the World? The following showcases his great career: the rise, the fall, the rise, the fall and possibly another rise. This is the Original - not just fat - RONALDO . . .

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F1: 2009 Not a "One Horse Race"

Jonathon Duffy — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:38:28 -0400

The picture above almost sums up the 2009 F1 World Championship scene. Rubens Barrichello is, at the most, satisfied by his position but clearly upset that his team mate is taking all the glory. Sebastian Vettel (blue) is really pleased with his position but has the confidence that he can still take the World Championship. Jenson Button is ecstatic about where he is, 1st, but all that glory might be slipping away! As it stands: Jenson Button - Brawn - 64 points Rubens Barrichello - Brawn - 41 points Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 39 points To inexperienced or down beat F1 fans this would look like Button is running away with it! But, to experienced and realistic F1 fans this looks like Button is still running away with it, but with Vettel lightly breathing down his neck, for now. . . You see, unfornutely for this years Championship, the "run away" leader Jenson Button also happens to be the most consistent driver out there. Even in his BAR Honda days Button - with the exception of last year -used to rack up solid, good, consistent points. He is so comfortable in any car. He is a 'smooth' driver, rarely putting a 'hand' wrong. Like a machine, Jenson needs to be matched by whats below him, his car. And he certainly has that this year! But who are the challengers?

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Next Cristiano Ronaldo: But Who Is Douglas Costa?

Jonathon Duffy — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 09:09:39 -0400

Fast. Confident. Great long range shooter. Composed finisher. Free kick specialist. Winger. Attacking Midfielder. Striker. Runs at players. Silky skills. A slight arrogance and swagger. Bit of a "hogger" on the ball. And step over king. Sound like someone familiar? Douglas Costa is just like Cristiano Ronaldo. He can pop up anywhere on the pitch, always in the right position and full of energy. But there is something a little more special about Douglas Costa.

When I say he is very similar to Ronaldo I don't mean Ronaldo aged 18. I mean the current Cristiano Ronaldo! World Player Of The Year Ronaldo. Most Expensive Player Ronaldo.

Douglas Costa is only 18!

Now I was like most football/soccer fans when I heard about Manchester United following this young prospect, Douglas Costa. Never heard of him! I read a few articles about him in the newspapers and he sounded interesting. So I looked him up on YouTube, and I advise you to do the same!

Watching videos of him was a pleasure. Now I understand that they are 'highlights' and that he may not always play like that. But I was impressed. I saw clips of him playing at youth stages, first team games for Gremio and at Under 20 level for Brazil. He is 'quality'.

Its as if the ball sticks to his boot. He sidesteps players beautifully and the ball follows him as if he were a magnet. Exaggeration, just look for yourself.

He uses his step overs to beat his opponent and he leaves them standing in his dust. He cuts in from the wing, ball at his feet, and smashes it at goal so powerfully that his feet come off the ground. He seems like the kind of player every defender hates. He can shield the ball so well, despite being no taller than 5"7! And he has a fine finish in front of goal too. And watch out for his superb free kicks, as the pace and curl he gets on them is incredible!

He is like a combination of Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo, with a little bit of Robinho in him.

But there are still a few doubts:

He has only made 16 first team appearances for Gremio in two seasons!
In 16 appearances he has only scored 1 goal
Brazilian defences - and goalkeepers - are much weaker than in England
He has only made 11 appearances for the Brazil 'Under 20' side and scored only 3 goals

So he has yet to prove his value. . .

So should Manchester United - or Real Madrid, Inter or Barcelona - splash out £20,000,000 ($32.6 million/€23.5 million) on him? Perhaps just one more season to prove his worth. But this could increase his value and Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United Manager) could miss out on a gold mine!

My feeling is that he is certainly not the complete product and will need someone (like Ferguson) to develop him further. But to get the best out of him, in my opinion, he needs to move to Italy or Spain where he can run with the ball more, have more space and freedom, and won't be pushed to be a better team player (with the exception of FC Barcelona and a few others). But I would love to see him at Man United, with him on the right and Nani on the left.

Watch his videos, watch out for him, and PLEASE leave comments on what YOU think about him and where he should go . . .

Latest on Michael Schumacher and the Stig Situation

Jonathon Duffy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:18:18 -0400

Last night I broke the news here on B/R that popular British motor programme Top Gear ended their long running joke, The Stig, a man who drives new vehicles around the show's very own Test Circuit.

The current Stig (since 2004) has never revealed himself, and because of this he has become a cult icon in the United Kingdom as well as overseas. After months of speculation and a lot of controversy, Top Gear ended an era when they revealed The Stig's identity to be none other than the greatest Formula One driver of all time, Michael Schumacher.

But everything about this pointed towards a "Prank." The show is very humorous, so much so that it is as much about comedy as it is about motoring. The show's presenters often play big jokes on each other. But this is by far the greatest.

I doubt very much that "Schumi" was allowed to take days off when he was still racing for Ferrari—and after being paid a reported $80,000,000 salary by Ferrari, as well as many sponsorship deals in Europe and Asia, it is unbelievable that the BBC managed to persuade Schumi to work for them.

Also, if you were the show's producer, would you have kept the fact that the greatest driver in the world was racing on your show every week? He pulled in nearly a billion viewers doing that for F1, right?

Many people had been followed and claimed they were being unfairly treated as the media stepped up their search to find the real Stig. Maybe this was their plan to take the focus away from the poor guy under the helmet that will never be known.

At the end of the show, Michael Schumacher got lost in a very funny ending and crashed into the television cameras, signalling that he clearly wasn't The Stig in many people's view. Jeremy Clarkson also remarked, "so Michael Schumacher is The Stig...or is he?" perhaps trying to subtly say that unfortunately Schumacher isn't The Stig, and most likely it is someone we have never heard of...and never will.

Good night!

WWE: Where Does the Trump Storyline Go Now?

Jonathon Duffy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:14:26 -0400

Big news: Donald Trump is new owner of Raw.

Is this big? I doubt it. Younger WWE fans won't know who he is! Older WWE fans all know this is a "media seeking" storyline. So what's the point?

Well, we all know Vince has something up his sleeve. And he hasn't made a mistake on this new "hot topic".

1. Everybody—WWE fans that is—will want to see Donald Trump on Raw tonight to see what it's going to be like, and how he plays his new role, e.g., will he be a face or heel, and will this plot win over the crowd and viewers?

2. Donald Trump is very famous, so every entertainment show will consider this story as cute and then report it. This gets the WWE brand out into the mainstream and should bring in some curious new viewers—at least for tonight, anyway.

3. A new order. Trump has promised to "shake up" Raw. His surprise for tonight or next week will probably be a new general manager, which should be—or involve—Ric Flair. Then enter a few other superstars? This will keep WWE viewers interested.

So this will be interesting. But how long will it last? And more importantly, how will it develop? It seems already like this is going to become some sort of power struggle between McMahon and Trump, with Vince seemingly remaining face. But I can't imagine Trump going completely heel.

The storyline will probably involve Shane and Stephanie, while Linda won't get involved in any story lines as she represents the "serious business" side of the company. And we all know with the McMahons involved, Triple H should soon follow!

That would be a great story with Ric Flair and possibly World Champion Randy Orton. And with Batista back in three months? An Evolution reunion would be a huge money maker!

Expect the storyline to be based around Trump's new regime and how the superstars manage their new environment.

The most interesting thing about this will obviously be Trump and not the wrestlers, but seeing how his character develops will keep me interested a little. And where Vince is planning on taking this storyline next will have the Internet buzzing!

It could be the beginning of the end for the PG era (thank god!), but maybe for the WWE as well.

p.s. like many huge story lines with potential in recent years, don't be surprised if it never gets started and disappears withing weeks! But you will stay tuned! For now!

Wimbledon 2009 Latest: Federer Wins First Set But is Struggling

Jonathon Duffy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:11:47 -0400

Roger Federer has just won the first set in his opening match of the Championships at Wimbledon. He is facing Lu Yen-Hsun of China, who is ranked #55 in the world - #1 in Asia. But Federer isn't having an easy opening.

Federer won the first game as Lu didn't stand a chance (0-1)

But the crowd get behind Lu as he fights back to make it a game each (1-1)

Federer won the next game as Lu looks demolished again (1-2)

But again Lu fights back, even dealing with Federer's return shots, and wins the game (2-2)

Then Lu fights on and with thanks to a Federer mistake on his forehand, Lu wins the break point. (3-2)

Federer takes control again but Lu keeps coming back each game

(3-3) (3-4) (4-4) (4-5) (5-5)

But Lu starts playing like his ranking and Federer wins two straight games (5-6) (6-7) after Lu "collapses like a baby giraffe". Lunch break anyone?

note: must check out Federer's gold lined outfit and waistcoat!

note2: Lu's nickname is "Rendy"!

World Football XI 2008-09

Jonathon Duffy — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:16:49 -0400

We all love a little Fantasy Football or Soccer! But who would you put in a dream eleven? Included are: 1 Goalkeper, 1 Right Back, 1 Left Back, 2 Central Defenders, 1 Right Midfielder, 2 Central Midfielders, 1 Left Midfielder and 2 Strikers I am taking talent from all over the world. I shall explain why they are in the Dream Team. Any thoughts or different choices please leave comments...

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Confederations Cup: Congrats to USA!

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 18:12:57 -0400

As I previously wrote in an article: Chin up American Soccer fans, you have a good team.

For the last week I have read articles regarding the US National Soccer team's inability to compete with the best and subsequently the popularity of the MLS falling even further.

Now there is hope.

The whole team came together to show those fundamental skills every American has: pride and the will to win. They certainly had that.

And a new star born in Charlie Davies? Wait n' see!

USA will have a good World Cup next year!

Meanwhile prepare for Spain!

Breaking News: Michael Schumacher Revealed as "The Stig" on Top Gear

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:07:01 -0400

F1 and Ferrari legend Michael Schumacher has just been revealed as "The Stig" on popular British television show Top Gear!

The show is a motor magazine show that reviews new vehicles all over the world, and races interesting or classic vehicles, among other features.

But for over a decade they have had a secret "tame racing driver" who races new vehicles around the show's very own test circuit. But his identity has never been revealed, as he has kept his mask and suit on at all times during production of the show. He has become of cult status in Britain, with t-shirts even being produced.

There has been an enormous amount of speculation recently regarding his true identity, and finally that person was revealed tonight at around 20:45 British time to be Michael Schumacher. It is thought he took over from the previous "Stig" around 2006 or 2007. No certainty yet on whether this announcement is true or a prank pulled by the show's comedic hosts, but it will sure have the internet buzzing!

Jeff Hardy's Contract Status: Think About The Possibilities!

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:31:16 -0400

The other night I watched Smackdown. First time in years. Edge is great. CM Punk, Shelton Benjamin, John Morrison, and especially Chris Jericho were all fantastic. It was the first time I've seen it in ages, and I quite enjoyed it. I'm one of those people who will watch wrestling for the skills and athleticism and the physicality, not the story lines and childish humour—although I loved the stories and promos back in the Attitude Era. I watched Raw and it was so boring and childish! It's rubbish, while Smackdown was brilliant! It's a shame the ratings say differently.

Last time I watched SmackDown, it was all about Edge, Taker, and Triple H. This time it was different. Jeff Hardy was '"it." He had this larger than life image. He really was the star of the show. I think WWE will make him the "legend" of this generation, like Austin and Hogan were. He's unique, exciting, traumatised, free, and wild with face paint and you have to love him!

Now, this really makes me wonder about these "leaving" rumours. As I understand it, he hasn't signed a contract with the WWE, but what if he had but they were keeping it secret to keep us interested in Smackdown? Or what if they want him to leave, take some needed time off and be "re-hired". This could mean those two "strikes" against the wellness policy could disappear and he would have a clean sheet; and why would WWE build up a character and lose him so easily?

What are your thoughts?

Real Madrid: The Greatest Galacticos

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 13:59:28 -0400

Real Madrid have become renown for signing the biggest players in the world. And there are many. But who is the greatest star of Madrid? Is it one of their high profile, record breaking deals or could it be someone a little more homegrown? It's a long list, and a tough choice. 2000. Real Madrid had just run into a lot of money through selling their city training ground for a huge price. Wise old Florentino Perez, who was Madrid President at the time, decided to pay off any debts. And with the money remaining (and some controversial support from local organizations) he began turning Real Madrid into the ultimate Fantasy Team, thus the begining of the Galactico Era. Since 2000, when Real Madrid paid a World Record fee for Luis Figo and maid him their first 'Galactico', a string of big name players have joined. From B for Beckham to Z for Zidane, here are a pick of the finest...

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Chin Up America: Your 'Soccer' Team Doesn't Suck!

Jonathon Duffy — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 10:30:04 -0400

Calm down America!

I am English and have read many interesting articles about how the U.S. National Soccer Team is "disappointing" and "uninspiring." I also have gathered that, although soccer is by far not your favorite sport, many Americans still want their side to represent their great nation in the World Cup next year with pride; and more importantly, be successful in it. And obviously a good national side increases interest in the sport!

Now, let's be honest. The USA will not win the World Cup next year. But you don't need to even make the final to be successful in the tournament. To make the quarterfinals would be great!

The problem lies with the team's attitude. For a country that is renowned for its tough, proud, and a little "in your face" winning attitude (which I personally love, btw) your side underestimates themselves.

The team features some of the most underrated players in the game (e.g. Landon Donovan, Oguchi Onyewu and Clint Dempsey) and some of the best young talent around right now (e.g. Michael Bradley, Jozy Altidore and Freddy Adu), as well as a number of seasoned top class players (e.g. Tim Howard, Jonathon Spector, Jay DeMerit, DaMarcus Beasley and Carlos Bocanegra).

Fine, many of those players aren't in the same league as Kaka and Lio Messi, I agree. But take confidence in the way you outplayed Italy, even with 10 men! And that you held them at 1-0 for almost an hour. And I believe you could have won, or at least drawn if it wasn't for Guiseppe Rossi's amazing shot, andyou won't concede many goals like that.

The problem is that many players don't live up to their standards in big games. Jozy Altidore has been useless in the Confederations Cup so far! Michael Bradley lacks the end product while Clint Dempsey has been pretty average.

Another major problem is the MLS. Sorry Americans, but its quality is poor at the moment. The David Beckham situation wasn't done correctly. I was in America when he first moved and it seemed that people were only interested when he signed, but didn't hear much about him when he was playing. Okay, injuries happened, I know. But what about Freddy Ljumberg? I'm not sure if he has retired. He's not the biggest signing in the US but his move should create some interest. I knew he went to the MLS but I'm not sure who he plays for! (I do know it is the Seattle Sounders now, thanks)

Players like Landon Donovan have no competition in the US. They need to move out at a certain level because when it comes to a World Cup, Jozy Altidore will be playing against Inter Milan's Maicon or Spain's Sergio Ramos, not Chris Wingert of Real Salt Lake.

On a positive note, Landon Donovan would be in the team of the tournament. He is a fantastic player who can hold the ball, run with it, pass it beautifully and compete for it. And he is a healthy scoring machine. Above all, however, he is a leader...and with big game experience.

Plus, Oguchi Onyewu is tough. He is the perfect centre back. He is strong in the air, he closes down players before they reach the ball, which is the result of his marking abilities and his pace (and he is fast for a big guy), and what impressed me was how he kept some of the best Italian attackers out. He is a one man defense. And in Tim Howard the US have a reliable goalkeeper. He is top class. Since he left Manchester United he has improved so much. I would go as far to say that he could even win back the United No.1 jersey. He is one of the main reasons that Everton are so good. But then he's not the first world class keeper the US have produced, and looking at Brad Guzan he won't be the last.

So the Confederations Cup hasn't been a failure for American Soccer fans. After all you had to beat Mexico to get there! It is an important experience for many of the squad as they are discovering the vast difference in style and quality with teams like Brazil and Italy that you can't find in North America. And meanwhile, Jozy Altidore, Bradley, Onweyu, Howard and Adu will have plenty of experience in Europe by then as they are all at good clubs. And with Landon Donovan anything can happen.

As of writing, the USA are 14th in the world. Above Czech Republic, Australia, Ivory Coast and way above Egypt, who could be seen as a possible outsider if they qualify for the World Cup following their performances against Brazil and Italy. I remember England were 12th going into the last world cup and we all thought we could have made the semis if it wasn't for Rooney's red card in the last 8!

So USA will do better in the World Cup in 2010. Good luck tonight against Egypt!