Good morning all. Lots to get into today so let’s get started:
FIFA judge rules that clubs must release U-23 players
If you were ready to go buy some tickets after receiving word on Tuesday that Lionel Messi would be making the trip with Barcelona to the United States you might want to hold off for a bit.
A FIFA judge has ruled that clubs must release Under-23 players for the Olympics, a ruling that affects Messi and Brazilians Diego and Rafinha. All three were being held back by their respective clubs.
What next? The case will go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which will have the final say. I wouldn’t bet on the court ruling against FIFA.
Dynamo downs Pachuca in SuperLiga semifinals
Second-half goals from Bobby Boswell and Corey Ashe helped the Houston Dynamo topple Mexican powerhouse and reigning SuperLiga champion Pachuca, 2-0, in SuperLiga semifinal action at Robertson Stadium on Tuesday night.
Pachuca looked to have taken the lead in the second half only to have a goal incorrectly ruled offside. Rather than overcome the bad call, Pachuca let up in a game it was beginning to dominate, opening the door for the Dynamo to take over.
Houston will now face the winner of tonight’s SuperLiga semifinal between the New England Revolution and Atlante in the SuperLiga final.
Real Madrid closes in on Van Der Vaart
In what may be a sign that Real Madrid is ready to give up on its quest for Cristiano Ronaldo, the Spanish champions are closing in on signing Hamburg playmaker Rafael Van Der Vaart. Not a bad consolation prize, is it?
Van Der Vaart has been a star in the Bundesliga for years and has a good understanding with Dutch national teammate Wesley Snjeider, who he would be united with in the Real Madrid midfield.
Does this really mean Real Madrid’s hunt for Ronaldo is over? I doubt that. Ramon Calderon won’t give up that fight any time soon.
What do you think of the FIFA ruling? Will it hold up? Does Houston look poised to win SuperLiga? Was Pachuca robbed? Is Van Der Vaart going to make Real Madrid better?
Share your thoughts below.