Sunday, June 25, 2006
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World Cup
Netherlands-Portugal
MoneyControl
The Dutch have not lost a competitive match since a 2-1 defeat to the hosts of the European championship two years ago. Portugal, led by Brazilan World Cup-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, have won all three group games as they reached the World Cup second round for the first time since 1966. They also have an impressive record against the Dutch, losing only once in their previous nine meetings. Neither team has arguably been tested to the full in the tournament so far. Portugal faced an unfancied Iran and World Cup debutants Angola in Group D, needing only to turn up against Mexico to book their spot in the last 16. The toughest challenge for the Dutch was against favourites Argentina in their final Group C game, but by then they too were already in the second round after wins against the Ivory Coast and Serbia & Montenegro. Van Basten is contemplating leaving out below-par striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Detroit News
This is a close match to call and likely will go to extra time or even a penalty-kick shootout. Arjen Robben, rested for the match against Argentina, should return to attack the Portuguese defense with his fast runs and accurate shooting. Portugal’s talented forwards, with Luis Figo still going strong at age 33, have created plenty of chances and will give the Dutch defense much trouble. Portugal will try to extend coach Luiz Felipe Scolari’s winning streak in the World Cup to 11
Ecuador-England
Detroit News
Ghana, Australia and Ecuador provided the biggest shocks of the first round of the World Cup. Now they are chasing even bigger ones in the last 16. Despite a 3-0 loss to the Germans, Ecuador already had made it to second stage for the first time after shutout victories over Poland and Costa Rica. Now it is keeping South American soccer giants Brazil and Argentina company and faces England in Stuttgart on Sunday. Michael Owen’s departure because of a serious knee injury has cast a cloud over England’s camp and co-striker Wayne Rooney is under pressure to recapture his best form. England’s midfield is starting to hit its peak, however, with Joe Cole and Steven Gerrard performing well.
MLB
· Vazquez 2-5 personal, 3-8 team record to Houston
· Redman 5-2 personal record to Milwaukee
· In 15 starts, Brad Penny has a 2.83 ERA
· Towers 1-8 personal, 2-9 team record, Toronto over 8-2 with him
· Mets over 10-4 with Trachsel
· Detroit under 10-4 with Bonderman
· Florida 5-10 with Willis
· Mussina 8-3 personal record
· Washington 5-11 with Hernandez
· Tampa under 9-3 with Hendrickson
· Boston under 11-4 with Wakefield
· Seattle over 10-5 with Pineiro
· Arizona over 10-4 with Batista
· Ponson 7.33 road ERA in seven starts
· Loaiza 1-3 road 8.33 ERA
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