July 2014
World Cup Final Predictions
When Argentina defeated the Netherlands on penalty kicks, ESPN announcer, Jon Champion, stated the World Cup Final would be, "Messi vs the machine". A great title, maybe even a good name for a band, but Argentina has proven this tournament their side is a lot more than Messi and his 10 buddies. Angel di Maria was a key contributor in the group stages, while Higuain and Mascherano have taken turns being the star player in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively. Germany has many parts to their machine as well - all-time leading World Cup goalscorer, Klose; a player that could break Klose's records, Thomas Muller; and the best goalkeeper in the tournament, Manuel Neuer. Just to name a few. Soccer Banter spoke to five Division I men's soccer coaches to get their analysis and predictions on Germany v. Argentina. Continue Reading
They Think It's All Over...Phew, so that’s over.
In fairness, I’m not convinced that the USA/Belgium game ever needed to end. It’s been my favourite match of the tournament so far, and if its final 15 minutes were still playing out in some far flung favela I’d risk the Soccerbanter riches to attend. Continue Reading |
World Cup Semifinal Predicitons
Europe v. South America. Soccer Banter spoke to five division I men's soccer coaches for their analysis and predictions of the World Cup semifinal matches. Continue Reading
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World Cup Quarterfinal PredictionsThree weeks ago the World Cup started with a bang as Brazil had to come from behind to defeat Croatia 3-1, which provided a blueprint for the tournament. Plenty of goals have been scored, European sides have been sent home, and Tim Howard and Miguel Herrera have become global icons. Attacking soccer has replaced the defensive tendencies of past competitions and now only eight countries remain to lift the trophy on July 13. Soccer Banter spoke to six men's soccer college coaches to get their analysis and predictions on the quarterfinal matches. Continue Reading
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