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Playboy going public: Porn, Gambling, and Cannabis

NEW INFO 5 Results from share redemption are posted. Less than .2% redeemed. Very bullish as investors are showing extreme confidence in the future of PLBY.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/playboy-mountain-crest-acquisition-corp-120000721.html
NEW INFO 4 Definitive Agreement to purchase 100% of Lovers brand stores announced 2/1.
https://www.streetinsider.com/Corporate+News/Playboy+%28MCAC%29+Confirms+Deal+to+Acquire+Lovers/17892359.html
NEW INFO 3 I bought more on the dip today. 5081 total. Price rose AH to $12.38 (2.15%)
NEW INFO 2 Here is the full webinar.
https://icrinc.zoom.us/rec/play/9GWKdmOYumjWfZuufW3QXpe_FW_g--qeNbg6PnTjTMbnNTgLmCbWjeRFpQga1iPc-elpGap8dnDv8Zww.yD7DjUwuPmapeEdP?continueMode=true&tk=lEYc4F_FkKlgsmCIs6w0gtGHT2kbgVGbUju3cIRBSjk.DQIAAAAV8NK49xZWdldRM2xNSFNQcTBmcE00UzM3bXh3AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA&uuid=WN_GKWqbHkeSyuWetJmLFkj4g&_x_zm_rtaid=kR45-uuqRE-L65AxLjpbQw.1611967079119.2c054e3d3f8d8e63339273d9175939ed&_x_zm_rhtaid=866
NEW INFO 1 Live merger webinar with PLBY and MCAC on Friday January 29, 2021 at 12:00 NOON EST link below
https://mcacquisition.com/investor-relations/press-release-details/2021/Playboy-Enterprises-Inc.-and-Mountain-Crest-Acquisition-Corp-Participate-in-SPACInsider-ICR-Webinar-on-January-29th-at-12pm-ET/default.aspx
Playboy going public: Porn, Gambling, and Cannabis
!!!WARNING READING AHEAD!!! TL;DR at the end. It will take some time to sort through all the links and read/watch everything, but you should.
In the next couple weeks, Mountain Crest Acquisition Corp is taking Playboy public. The existing ticker MCAC will become PLBY. Special purpose acquisition companies have taken private companies public in recent months with great success. I believe this will be no exception. Notably, Playboy is profitable and has skyrocketing revenue going into a transformational growth phase.
Porn - First and foremost, let's talk about porn. I know what you guys are thinking. “Porno mags are dead. Why would I want to invest in something like that? I can get porn for free online.” Guess what? You are absolutely right. And that’s exactly why Playboy doesn’t do that anymore. That’s right, they eliminated their print division. And yet they somehow STILL make money from porn that people (see: boomers) pay for on their website through PlayboyTV, Playboy Plus, and iPlayboy. Here’s the thing: Playboy has international, multi-generational name recognition from porn. They have content available in 180 countries. It will be the only publicly traded adult entertainment (porn) company. But that is not where this company is going. It will help support them along the way. You can see every Playboy magazine through iPlayboy if you’re interested. NSFW links below:
https://www.playboy.com/
https://www.playboytv.com/
https://www.playboyplus.com/
https://www.iplayboy.com/
Gambling - Some of you might recognize the Playboy brand from gambling trips to places like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Cancun, London or Macau. They’ve been in the gambling biz for decades through their casinos, clubs, and licensed gaming products. They see the writing on the wall. COVID is accelerating the transition to digital, application based GAMBLING. That’s right. What we are doing on Robinhood with risky options is gambling, and the only reason regulators might give a shit anymore is because we are making too much money. There may be some restrictions put in place, but gambling from your phone on your couch is not going anywhere. More and more states are allowing things like Draftkings, poker, state ‘lottery” apps, hell - even political betting. Michigan and Virginia just ok’d gambling apps. They won’t be the last. This is all from your couch and any 18 year old with a cracked iphone can access it. Wouldn’t it be cool if Playboy was going to do something like that? They’re already working on it. As per CEO Ben Kohn who we will get to later, “...the company’s casino-style digital gaming products with Scientific Games and Microgaming continue to see significant global growth.” Honestly, I stopped researching Scientific Games' sports betting segment when I saw the word ‘omni-channel’. That told me all I needed to know about it’s success.
“Our SG Sports™ platform is an enhanced, omni-channel solution for online, self-service and retail fixed odds sports betting – from soccer to tennis, basketball, football, baseball, hockey, motor sports, racing and more.”
https://www.scientificgames.com/
https://www.microgaming.co.uk/
“This latter segment has become increasingly enticing for Playboy, and it said last week that it is considering new tie-ups that could include gaming operators like PointsBet and 888Holdings.”
https://calvinayre.com/2020/10/05/business/playboys-gaming-ops-could-get-a-boost-from-spac-purchase/
As per their SEC filing:
“Significant consumer engagement and spend with Playboy-branded gaming properties around the world, including with leading partners such as Microgaming, Scientific Games, and Caesar’s Entertainment, steers our investment in digital gaming, sports betting and other digital offerings to further support our commercial strategy to expand consumer spend with minimal marginal cost, and gain consumer data to inform go-to-market plans across categories.”
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgadata/1803914/000110465921005986/tm2034213-12_defm14a.htm#tMDAA1
They are expanding into more areas of gaming/gambling, working with international players in the digital gaming/gambling arena, and a Playboy sportsbook is on the horizon.
https://www.playboy.com/read/the-pleasure-of-playing-with-yourself-mobile-gaming-in-the-covid-era
Cannabis - If you’ve ever read through a Playboy magazine, you know they’ve had a positive relationship with cannabis for many years. As of September 2020, Playboy has made a major shift into the cannabis space. Too good to be true you say? Check their website. Playboy currently sells a range of CBD products. This is a good sign. Federal hemp products, which these most likely are, can be mailed across state lines and most importantly for a company like Playboy, can operate through a traditional banking institution. CBD products are usually the first step towards the cannabis space for large companies. Playboy didn’t make these products themselves meaning they are working with a processor in the cannabis industry. Another good sign for future expansion. What else do they have for sale? Pipes, grinders, ashtrays, rolling trays, joint holders. Hmm. Ok. So it looks like they want to sell some shit. They probably don’t have an active interest in cannabis right? Think again:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2020/09/24/playboy-gets-serious-about-cannabis-law-reform-advocacy-with-new-partnership-grants/?sh=62f044a65cea
“Taking yet another step into the cannabis space, Playboy will be announcing later on Thursday (September, 2020) that it is launching a cannabis law reform and advocacy campaign in partnership with National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), Last Prisoner Project, Marijuana Policy Project, the Veterans Cannabis Project, and the Eaze Momentum Program.”
“According to information procured exclusively, the three-pronged campaign will focus on calling for federal legalization. The program also includes the creation of a mentorship plan, through which the Playboy Foundation will support entrepreneurs from groups that are underrepresented in the industry.” Remember that CEO Kohn from earlier? He wrote this recently:
https://medium.com/naked-open-letters-from-playboy/congress-must-pass-the-more-act-c867c35239ae
Seems like he really wants weed to be legal? Hmm wonder why? The writing's on the wall my friends. Playboy wants into the cannabis industry, they are making steps towards this end, and we have favorable conditions for legislative progress.
Don’t think branding your own cannabis line is profitable or worthwhile? Tell me why these 41 celebrity millionaires and billionaires are dummies. I’ll wait.
https://www.celebstoner.com/news/celebstoner-news/2019/07/12/top-celebrity-cannabis-brands/
Confirmation: I hear you. “This all seems pretty speculative. It would be wildly profitable if they pull this shift off. But how do we really know?” Watch this whole video:
https://finance.yahoo.com/video/playboy-ceo-telling-story-female-154907068.html
Man - this interview just gets my juices flowing. And highlights one of my favorite reasons for this play. They have so many different business avenues from which a catalyst could appear. I think paying attention, holding shares, and options on these staggered announcements over the next year is the way I am going to go about it. "There's definitely been a shift to direct-to-consumer," he (Kohn) said. "About 50 percent of our revenue today is direct-to-consumer, and that will continue to grow going forward.” “Kohn touted Playboy's portfolio of both digital and consumer products, with casino-style gaming, in particular, serving a crucial role under the company's new business model. Playboy also has its sights on the emerging cannabis market, from CBD products to marijuana products geared toward sexual health and pleasure.” "If THC does become legal in the United States, we have developed certain strains to enhance your sex life that we will launch," Kohn said. https://cheddar.com/media/playboy-goes-public-health-gaming-lifestyle-focus Oh? The CEO actually said it? Ok then. “We have developed certain strains…” They’re already working with growers on strains and genetics? Ok. There are several legal cannabis markets for those products right now, international and stateside. I expect Playboy licensed hemp and THC pre-rolls by EOY. Something like this: https://www.etsy.com/listing/842996758/10-playboy-pre-roll-tubes-limited?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=pre+roll+playboy&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&organic_search_click=1 Maintaining cannabis operations can be costly and a regulatory headache. Playboy’s licensing strategy allows them to pick successful, established partners and sidestep traditional barriers to entry. You know what I like about these new markets? They’re expanding. Worldwide. And they are going to be a bigger deal than they already are with or without Playboy. Who thinks weed and gambling are going away? Too many people like that stuff. These are easy markets. And Playboy is early enough to carve out their spot in each. Fuck it, read this too: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimosman/2020/10/20/playboy-could-be-the-king-of-spacs-here-are-three-picks/?sh=2e13dcaa3e05
Numbers: You want numbers? I got numbers. As per the company’s most recent SEC filing:
“For the year ended December 31, 2019, and the nine months ended September 30, 2020, Playboy’s historical consolidated revenue was $78.1 million and $101.3 million, respectively, historical consolidated net income (loss) was $(23.6) million and $(4.8) million, respectively, and Adjusted EBITDA was $13.1 million and $21.8 million, respectively.”
“In the nine months ended September 30, 2020, Playboy’s Licensing segment contributed $44.2 million in revenue and $31.1 million in net income.”
“In the ninth months ended September 30, 2020, Playboy’s Direct-to-Consumer segment contributed $40.2 million in revenue and net income of $0.1 million.”
“In the nine months ended September 30, 2020, Playboy’s Digital Subscriptions and Content segment contributed $15.4 million in revenue and net income of $7.4 million.”
They are profitable across all three of their current business segments.
“Playboy’s return to the public markets presents a transformed, streamlined and high-growth business. The Company has over $400 million in cash flows contracted through 2029, sexual wellness products available for sale online and in over 10,000 major retail stores in the US, and a growing variety of clothing and branded lifestyle and digital gaming products.”
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgadata/1803914/000110465921005986/tm2034213-12_defm14a.htm#tSHCF
Growth: Playboy has massive growth in China and massive growth potential in India. “In China, where Playboy has spent more than 25 years building its business, our licensees have an enormous footprint of nearly 2,500 brick and mortar stores and 1,000 ecommerce stores selling high quality, Playboy-branded men’s casual wear, shoes/footwear, sleepwear, swimwear, formal suits, leather & non-leather goods, sweaters, active wear, and accessories. We have achieved significant growth in China licensing revenues over the past several years in partnership with strong licensees and high-quality manufacturers, and we are planning for increased growth through updates to our men’s fashion lines and expansion into adjacent categories in men’s skincare and grooming, sexual wellness, and women’s fashion, a category where recent launches have been well received.” The men’s market in China is about the same size as the entire population of the United States and European Union combined. Playboy is a leading brand in this market. They are expanding into the women’s market too. Did you know CBD toothpaste is huge in China? China loves CBD products and has hemp fields that dwarf those in the US. If Playboy expands their CBD line China it will be huge. Did you know the gambling money in Macau absolutely puts Las Vegas to shame? Technically, it's illegal on the mainland, but in reality, there is a lot of gambling going on in China. https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2020/10/19/magic-johnson-and-uncle-buds-cbd-brand-enter-china-via-tmall-partnership/?sh=271776ca411e “In India, Playboy today has a presence through select apparel licensees and hospitality establishments. Consumer research suggests significant growth opportunities in the territory with Playboy’s brand and categories of focus.” “Playboy Enterprises has announced the expansion of its global consumer products business into India as part of a partnership with Jay Jay Iconic Brands, a leading fashion and lifestyle Company in India.” “The Indian market today is dominated by consumers under the age of 35, who represent more than 65 percent of the country’s total population and are driving India’s significant online shopping growth. The Playboy brand’s core values of playfulness and exploration resonate strongly with the expressed desires of today’s younger millennial consumers. For us, Playboy was the perfect fit.” “The Playboy international portfolio has been flourishing for more than 25 years in several South Asian markets such as China and Japan. In particular, it has strategically targeted the millennial and gen-Z audiences across categories such as apparel, footwear, home textiles, eyewear and watches.” https://www.licenseglobal.com/industry-news/playboy-expands-global-footprint-india It looks like they gave COVID the heisman in terms of net damage sustained: “Although Playboy has not suffered any material adverse consequences to date from the COVID-19 pandemic, the business has been impacted both negatively and positively. The remote working and stay-at-home orders resulted in the closure of the London Playboy Club and retail stores of Playboy’s licensees, decreasing licensing revenues in the second quarter, as well as causing supply chain disruption and less efficient product development thereby slowing the launch of new products. However, these negative impacts were offset by an increase in Yandy’s direct-to-consumer sales, which have benefited in part from overall increases in online retail sales so far during the pandemic.” Looks like the positives are long term (Yandy acquisition) and the negatives are temporary (stay-at-home orders).
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgadata/1803914/000110465921006093/tm213766-1_defa14a.htm
This speaks to their ability to maintain a financially solvent company throughout the transition phase to the aforementioned areas. They’d say some fancy shit like “expanded business model to encompass four key revenue streams: Sexual Wellness, Style & Apparel, Gaming & Lifestyle, and Beauty & Grooming.” I hear “we’re just biding our time with these trinkets until those dollar dollar bill y’all markets are fully up and running.” But the truth is these existing revenue streams are profitable, scalable, and rapidly expanding Playboy’s e-commerce segment around the world.
"Even in the face of COVID this year, we've been able to grow EBITDA over 100 percent and revenue over 68 percent, and I expect that to accelerate going into 2021," he said. “Playboy is accelerating its growth in company-owned and branded consumer products in attractive and expanding markets in which it has a proven history of brand affinity and consumer spend.”
Also in the SEC filing, the Time Frame:
“As we detailed in the definitive proxy statement, the SPAC stockholder meeting to vote on the transaction has been set for February 9th, and, subject to stockholder approval and satisfaction of the other closing conditions, we expect to complete the merger and begin trading on NASDAQ under ticker PLBY shortly thereafter,” concluded Kohn.
The Players: Suhail “The Whale” Rizvi (HMFIC), Ben “The Bridge” Kohn (CEO), “lil” Suying Liu & “Big” Dong Liu (Young-gun China gang). I encourage you to look these folks up. The real OG here is Suhail Rizvi. He’s from India originally and Chairman of the Board for the new PLBY company. He was an early investor in Twitter, Square, Facebook and others. His firm, Rizvi Traverse, currently invests in Instacart, Pinterest, Snapchat, Playboy, and SpaceX. Maybe you’ve heard of them. “Rizvi, who owns a sprawling three-home compound in Greenwich, Connecticut, and a 1.65-acre estate in Palm Beach, Florida, near Bill Gates and Michael Bloomberg, moved to Iowa Falls when he was five. His father was a professor of psychology at Iowa. Along with his older brother Ashraf, a hedge fund manager, Rizvi graduated from Wharton business school.” “Suhail Rizvi: the 47-year-old 'unsocial' social media baron: When Twitter goes public in the coming weeks (2013), one of the biggest winners will be a 47-year-old financier who guards his secrecy so zealously that he employs a person to take down his Wikipedia entry and scrub his photos from the internet. In IPO, Twitter seeks to be 'anti-FB'” “Prince Alwaleed bin Talal of Saudi Arabia looks like a big Twitter winner. So do the moneyed clients of Jamie Dimon. But as you’ve-got-to-be-joking wealth washed over Twitter on Thursday — a company that didn’t exist eight years ago was worth $31.7 billion after its first day on the stock market — the non-boldface name of the moment is Suhail R. Rizvi. Mr. Rizvi, 47, runs a private investment company that is the largest outside investor in Twitter with a 15.6 percent stake worth $3.8 billion at the end of trading on Thursday (November, 2013). Using a web of connections in the tech industry and in finance, as well as a hearty dose of good timing, he brought many prominent names in at the ground floor, including the Saudi prince and some of JPMorgan’s wealthiest clients.” https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/08/technology/at-twitter-working-behind-the-scenes-toward-a-billion-dollar-payday.html Y’all like that Arab money? How about a dude that can call up Saudi Princes and convince them to spend? Funniest shit about I read about him: “Rizvi was able to buy only $100 million in Facebook shortly before its IPO, thus limiting his returns, according to people with knowledge of the matter.” Poor guy :(
He should be fine with the 16 million PLBY shares he's going to have though :)
Shuhail also has experience in the entertainment industry. He’s invested in companies like SESAC, ICM, and Summit Entertainment. He’s got Hollywood connections to blast this stuff post-merger. And he’s at least partially responsible for that whole Twilight thing. I’m team Edward btw.
I really like what Suhail has done so far. He’s lurked in the shadows while Kohn is consolidating the company, trimming the fat, making Playboy profitable, and aiming the ship at modern growing markets.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-twitter-ipo-rizvi-insight/insight-little-known-hollywood-investor-poised-to-score-with-twitter-ipo-idUSBRE9920VW20131003
Ben “The Bridge” Kohn is an interesting guy. He’s the connection between Rizvi Traverse and Playboy. He’s both CEO of Playboy and was previously Managing Partner at Rizvi Traverse. Ben seems to be the voice of the Playboy-Rizvi partnership, which makes sense with Suhail’s privacy concerns. Kohn said this:
“Today is a very big day for all of us at Playboy and for all our partners globally. I stepped into the CEO role at Playboy in 2017 because I saw the biggest opportunity of my career. Playboy is a brand and platform that could not be replicated today. It has massive global reach, with more than $3B of global consumer spend and products sold in over 180 countries. Our mission – to create a culture where all people can pursue pleasure – is rooted in our 67-year history and creates a clear focus for our business and role we play in people’s lives, providing them with the products, services and experiences that create a lifestyle of pleasure. We are taking this step into the public markets because the committed capital will enable us to accelerate our product development and go-to-market strategies and to more rapidly build our direct to consumer capabilities,” said Ben Kohn, CEO of Playboy.
“Playboy today is a highly profitable commerce business with a total addressable market projected in the trillions of dollars,” Mr. Kohn continued, “We are actively selling into the Sexual Wellness consumer category, projected to be approximately $400 billion in size by 2024, where our recently launched intimacy products have rolled out to more than 10,000 stores at major US retailers in the United States. Combined with our owned & operated ecommerce Sexual Wellness initiatives, the category will contribute more than 40% of our revenue this year. In our Apparel and Beauty categories, our collaborations with high-end fashion brands including Missguided and PacSun are projected to achieve over $50M in retail sales across the US and UK this year, our leading men’s apparel lines in China expanded to nearly 2500 brick and mortar stores and almost 1000 digital stores, and our new men’s and women’s fragrance line recently launched in Europe. In Gaming, our casino-style digital gaming products with Scientific Games and Microgaming continue to see significant global growth. Our product strategy is informed by years of consumer data as we actively expand from a purely licensing model into owning and operating key high-growth product lines focused on driving profitability and consumer lifetime value. We are thrilled about the future of Playboy. Our foundation has been set to drive further growth and margin, and with the committed capital from this transaction and our more than $180M in NOLs, we will take advantage of the opportunity in front of us, building to our goal of $100M of adjusted EBITDA in 2025.”
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005404/en/Playboy-to-Become-a-Public-Company
Also, according to their Form 4s, “Big” Dong Liu and “lil” Suying Liu just loaded up with shares last week. These guys are brothers and seem like the Chinese market connection. They are only 32 & 35 years old. I don’t even know what that means, but it's provocative.
https://www.secform4.com/insider-trading/1832415.htm
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/mountain-crest-acquisition-corp-ii-002600994.html
Y’all like that China money?
“Mr. Liu has been the Chief Financial Officer of Dongguan Zhishang Photoelectric Technology Co., Ltd., a regional designer, manufacturer and distributor of LED lights serving commercial customers throughout Southern China since November 2016, at which time he led a syndicate of investments into the firm. Mr. Liu has since overseen the financials of Dongguan Zhishang as well as provided strategic guidance to its board of directors, advising on operational efficiency and cash flow performance. From March 2010 to October 2016, Mr. Liu was the Head of Finance at Feidiao Electrical Group Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese manufacturer of electrical outlets headquartered in Shanghai and with businesses in the greater China region as well as Europe.”
Dr. Suying Liu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mountain Crest Acquisition Corp., commented, “Playboy is a unique and compelling investment opportunity, with one of the world’s largest and most recognized brands, its proven consumer affinity and spend, and its enormous future growth potential in its four product segments and new and existing geographic regions. I am thrilled to be partnering with Ben and his exceptional team to bring his vision to fruition.”
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005404/en/Playboy-to-Become-a-Public-Company
These guys are good. They have a proven track record of success across multiple industries. Connections and money run deep with all of these guys. I don’t think they’re in the game to lose.
I was going to write a couple more paragraphs about why you should have a look at this but really the best thing you can do is read this SEC filing from a couple days ago. It explains the situation in far better detail. Specifically, look to page 137 and read through their strategy. Also, look at their ownership percentages and compensation plans including the stock options and their prices. The financials look great, revenue is up 90% Q3, and it looks like a bright future.
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgadata/1803914/000110465921005986/tm2034213-12_defm14a.htm#tSHCF
I’m hesitant to attach this because his position seems short term, but I’m going to with a warning because he does hit on some good points (two are below his link) and he’s got a sizable position in this thing (500k+ on margin, I think). I don’t know this guy but he did look at the same publicly available info and make roughly the same prediction, albeit without the in depth gambling or cannabis mention. You can also search reddit for ‘MCAC’ and very few relevant results come up and none of them even come close to really looking at this thing.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gOvAd6lebs452hFlWWbxVjQ3VMsjGBkbJeXRwDwIJfM/edit?usp=sharing
“Also, before you people start making claims that Playboy is a “boomer” company, STOP RIGHT THERE. This is not a good argument. Simply put. The only thing that matters is Playboy’s name recognition, not their archaic business model which doesn’t even exist anymore as they have completely repurposed their business.”
“Imagine not buying $MCAC at a 400M valuation lol. Streetwear department is worth 1B alone imo.”
Considering the ridiculous Chinese growth as a lifestyle brand, he’s not wrong.
Current Cultural Significance and Meme Value: A year ago I wouldn’t have included this section but the events from the last several weeks (even going back to tsla) have proven that a company’s ability to meme and/or gain social network popularity can have an effect. Tik-tok, Snapchat, Twitch, Reddit, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter. They all have Playboy stuff on them. Kids in middle and highschool know what Playboy is but will likely never see or touch one of the magazines in person. They’ll have a Playboy hoodie though. Crazy huh? A lot like GME, PLBY would hugely benefit from meme-value stock interest to drive engagement towards their new business model while also building strategic coffers. This interest may not directly and/or significantly move the stock price but can generate significant interest from larger players who will.
Bull Case: The year is 2025. Playboy is now the world leader pleasure brand. They began by offering Playboy licensed gaming products, including gambling products, direct to consumers through existing names. By 2022, demand has skyrocketed and Playboy has designed and released their own gambling platforms. In 2025, they are also a leading cannabis brand in the United States and Canada with proprietary strains and products geared towards sexual wellness. Cannabis was legalized in the US in 2023 when President Biden got glaucoma but had success with cannabis treatment. He personally pushes for cannabis legalization as he steps out of office after his first term. Playboy has also grown their brand in China and India to multi-billion per year markets. The stock goes up from 11ish to 100ish and everyone makes big gains buying somewhere along the way.
Bear Case: The United States does a complete 180 on marijuana and gambling. President Biden overdoses on marijuana in the Lincoln bedroom when his FDs go tits up and he loses a ton of money in his sports book app after the Fighting Blue Hens narrowly lose the National Championship to Bama. Playboy is unable to expand their cannabis and gambling brands but still does well with their worldwide lifestyle brand. They gain and lose some interest in China and India but the markets are too large to ignore them completely. The stock goes up from 11ish to 13ish and everyone makes 15-20% gains.
TL;DR: Successful technology/e-commerce investment firm took over Playboy to turn it into a porn, online gambling/gaming, sports book, cannabis company, worldwide lifestyle brand that promotes sexual wellness, vetern access, women-ownership, minority-ownership, and “pleasure for all”. Does a successful online team reinventing an antiquated physical copy giant sound familiar? No options yet, shares only for now. $11.38 per share at time of writing. My guess? $20 by the end of February. $50 by EOY. This is not financial advice. I am not qualified to give financial advice. I’m just sayin’ I would personally use a Playboy sports book app while smoking a Playboy strain specific joint and it would be cool if they did that. Do your own research. You’d probably want to start here:
WARNING - POTENTIALLY NSFW - SEXY MODELS AHEAD - no actual nudity though
https://s26.q4cdn.com/895475556/files/doc_presentations/Playboy-Craig-Hallum-Conference-Investor-Presentation-11_17_20-compressed.pdf
Or here:
https://www.mcacquisition.com/investor-relations/default.aspx
Jimmy Chill: “Get into any SPAC at $10 or $11 and you are going to make money.”
STL;DR: Buy MCAC. MCAC > PLBY couple weeks. Rocketship. Moon.
Position: 5000 shares. I will buy short, medium, and long-dated calls once available.
submitted by jeromeBDpowell to SPACs [link] [comments]

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Name Premier League Fixture (2020/21 Season)
URL https://public.tableau.com/profile/timbayer#!/vizhome/PremierLeagueFixtures2021/PLFixtures
Why is it important? This fixture difficulty tool is based on 538's Soccer Power Index (SPI) model, intuitive and visually stunning.
9) Contributed by Wwdc4
Name FPL Review
URL https://fplreview.com/
Why is it important? It is a great tool for point predictions and team planning, transfer suggestions, with some fun graphics.
10) Contributed by AngelKnives
Name Who Scored
URL https://www.whoscored.com/
Why is it important? Good for live score, match reports including heat maps, team stats and player ratings (based on its unique algorithm).
11) Contributed by Mestiano10
Name Fantasy Football Fix
URL https://www.fantasyfootballfix.com/
Why is it important? Potential Transfers, Price Prediction, Match Stats, Player Performance Report are included as free features, plus tonnes of premium features.

submitted by SuperWise88 to FantasyPL [link] [comments]

[Tue, Jan 05 2021] TL;DR — This is what you missed in the last 24 hours on Reddit

worldnews

Jack Ma and other billionaires go missing in China after criticizing government
Comments || Link
Egypt: Entire ICU ward dies after oxygen supply fails
Comments || Link
Avian flu confirmed: 1,800 migratory birds found dead in Himachal, India
Comments || Link

news

Proud Boys' leader Enrique Tarrio arrested in DC, law enforcement sources say
Comments || Link
Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Is Prioritizing COVID-19 Vaccines for Those Who Speak Native Languages
Comments || Link
FBI found Ghislaine Maxwell using mobile-phone data
Comments || Link

science

Deforestation dropped by 18 percent in two years in African countries where organizations subscribed to receive warnings from a new service using satellites to detect decreases in forest cover in the tropics. The carbon emissions avoided were worth between $149 million and $696 million
Comments || Link
Researchers discover people’s endorsement of hegemonic masculinity — the belief that men are dominant, tougher, more powerful, or high status — predicts their support for Donald Trump in the 2016 and 2020 elections (regardless of gender, political party, trust in the government, race, or education).
Comments || Link
Individuals with depression show a lack of positive bias when it comes to autobiographical memory, which relates to our beliefs about who we are. Recalling positive memories did not boost the number of positive self-statements in depressed people.
Comments || Link

space

Astronomers Discover Hundreds of High-Velocity Stars, Many on Their Way Out of the Milky Way
Comments || Link
Here are the 6 most exciting space missions of 2021
Comments || Link
New law is first to protect Apollo sites from future moon missions
Comments || Link

Futurology

Switching to insect-based pet food could save 112.1 tons of CO2 over the lifetime of a 55-pound dog — the equivalent of flying from London to Barcelona 640 times.
Comments || Link
Should we recognize privacy as a human right?
Comments || Link
Inspired by the color-changing skin of cuttlefish, octopuses and squids, engineers have created a 3D-printed smart gel that changes shape when exposed to light, becomes “artificial muscle” and may lead to new military camouflage, soft robotics and flexible displays.
Comments || Link

AskReddit

What double standard disgusts you?
Comments || Link
Christians: if there is life on other planets do you expect there to be a space jesus on those planets? Assuming yes, how would races without hands deal with their savior?
Comments || Link
What do you own a ridiculous amount of?
Comments || Link

todayilearned

TIL astronomer Harlow Shapley firmly believed that there was only one galaxy in the universe but when he was presented with an evidence that disproved his view, he said "it destroyed his universe." Then he completely changed his view and devoted his subsequent career in mapping 76,000 galaxies.
Comments || Link
TIL Red Rocks Amphitheatre was removed from consideration for the award for best outdoor venue in the word because it kept winning over and over (11 times). The award is now known as the Red Rocks Award.
Comments || Link
TIL that Andre Tchaikowski, a Polish composer, donated his skull to the Royal Shakespeare Company, asking that it be used as a prop on stage. The skull was used as Yorick's skull in a 2008 production of Hamlet.
Comments || Link

dataisbeautiful

Comparing COVID-19 vs. Influenza Mortality in the U.S. [OC]
Comments || Link
Commuter Regions of the United States [OC]
Comments || Link
The Decade the UK Killed Coal [OC]
Comments || Link

Cooking

I absolutely fell in love with butter garlic mushrooms.
Comments || Link
Chinese hot pot, the unsung hero of winter food
Comments || Link
I have 500g of lamb mince and about three quid for some spices/veg/herbs to make something good out of it. Have pasta and rice also. What’s everyone suggesting?
Comments || Link

food

[homemade] Sushi spread, nigiri and maki
Comments || Link
[Homemade]Eggs Benedict
Comments || Link
[Homemade] Baker fries
Comments || Link

movies

The giant David Hasselhoff model used in the first SpongeBob movie is currently up for auction.
Comments || Link
Tanya Roberts Passes Away at 65 After Premature Death Announcement
Comments || Link
Michael B. Jordan Will Direct ‘Creed 3’
Comments || Link

Art

Sunset, Me, Digital, 2018
Comments || Link
''Life & Death'' by me, Digital, 2019
Comments || Link
Mental Health, Me, Makeup and Photoshop, 2021
Comments || Link

television

Alex Trebek’s Final ‘Jeopardy’ Shows Begin With Emotional Message to Viewers: “Open Up Your Hearts to Those Who Are Suffering”
Comments || Link
Rowan Atkinson Says Cancel Culture “Like Medieval Mob Looking For Someone To Burn”; Hints At ‘Blackadder’ Revival
Comments || Link
Mike Rowe’s new Discovery+ show 'Six Degrees' is sponsored by the oil industry
Comments || Link

pics

Georgia's secretary of state has a fact check board for Trump's accusations of fraud today
Comments || Link
My neighbor “Snotoro” and I hope you all have a Happy New Year!
Comments || Link
Was taking a walk this morning and noticed my neighbor’s mug. Asked him if I could take a picture
Comments || Link

gifs

Barry loves having a soccer ball to play with
Comments || Link
Heeling Practice
Comments || Link
Disappearing into 34 inches of snow
Comments || Link

educationalgifs

Boiled dirty water under the microscope
Comments || Link
Apollo 11, from Translunar Injection burn to splashdown.
Comments || Link
An international research team used scanning and tunneling microscopy to send and receive single molecules across a surface on an atomically precise track.
Comments || Link

mildlyinteresting

I have this Onion newspaper box with the last ever print issue still in the display window.
Comments || Link
I went hiking and found a rock/log that resembled a giant moss puppy.
Comments || Link
This rooftop for bicycles so the saddle won't get wet.
Comments || Link

interestingasfuck

A baby elephant being given CPR after getting hit by a bike and survives.
Comments || Link
I have a birthmark in my eye
Comments || Link
The progress of imaging a black hole
Comments || Link

funny

Ever wondered how the internet is made?
Comments || Link
My wife is way too amused at my sister's gift to me
Comments || Link
very fast
Comments || Link

aww

I set up this bootleg toy for my bunny, and he has been playing with it non stop for 3 hours.
Comments || Link
Hope we are not too late
Comments || Link
Behold the glorious whiskers of shoulder cat
Comments || Link

Random Subreddit of the day: sidequest

These are its 3 top posts of all time:
How I feel telling anyone about my quest
Comments || Link
I was inspired by the new Amazon show "Upload" and made a proof of concept for a hand-tracking menu/phone
Comments || Link
The pandemic closed all pubs in my region... So I created my own pub!
Comments || Link
submitted by _call-me-al_ to RedditTLDR [link] [comments]

2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group C Preview [Honduras, Jamaica, El Salvador, Curaçao]

HONDURAS , via fanolato2

About

Introduction

The current ‘successful’ era of Honduras football can be pinpointed to the 2007 Gold Cup. Reinaldo Rueda’s first tournament in charge saw him beat Mexico in the group stage, with THAT famous kiss. While Honduras did not win, there was hope again after a disastrous 2006 World cup qualifying campaign, where Honduras didn’t even make the final Hexagonal. Honduras then qualified, with Rueda in charge, to South Africa 2010 (Thank you Bornstein) for the first time since 1982, and then with another Colombian in Luis Suarez, they made it back again in 2014 to Brazil. Both performances at the actual World Cup left a lot to be desired. While losing to France is expected, the final group stage match in 2014 vs Switzerland left a sour taste.
For 2018, after a disastrous Hernan Medford UNCAF tournament stint, Honduras turned to Costa Rica’s 2014 miracle worker, Jose Luis Pinto. Pinto then had disappointing showings in the 2015 Gold Cup and qualified to the Hexagonal under a lot of criticism of the team’s play, particularly the defending of crosses. Once in the Hex, despite USA’s destruction of Honduras in San Jose, and despite one defensive mistake after another in late game situations dealing with crosses, Honduras still found themselves in the playoff vs Australia for the 2018 World Cup final spot, by making a spirited comeback vs Mexico in the final hexagonal game, who up to then had not lost in qualifying. The playoff just set the pain back a month though, as Honduras played two very sad games vs Australia, both at home and away, meaning that Honduras would not be the first Central American team to qualify to three World Cups in a row.
Now Honduras looks to another foreigner, Fabian Coito, the Uruguayan who has been a long standing disciple of Oscar Tabarez and manager of the Uruguayan U-20s. With only one friendly under his belt, there is a lot to learn on how his teams will approach this Gold Cup.

Manager and Squad

Manager: Fabián Coito (Uruguay)

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

 R. Castillo M. Chirinos A. López A. Elis L. Garrido B. Acosta E. Izaguirre M. Figueroa (C) H. Figueroa B. Beckeles L. López 

Players to Watch

Alberth Elis (RW)
The Houston Dynamo winger and forward,has been rumoured with moves to Europe the past couple of years. He is pacy but strong, and is a physical mismatch for many fullbacks. His decision making can be an issue. Very unselfish in the box, often to a fault, he will have to become a more decisive finisher for Honduras to make a leap in this Gold Cup. He will be looking for that move to Europe, and there is no better place than at an international tournament.
Michaell Chirinos (LW)
The small and skillful winger currently playing in Liga MX for Lobos BUAP (Now Bravos de Ciudad Juarez), on Loan from Olimpia. He has 6 goals and 4 assists for a team that is more likely fighting against relegation than for a trophy. The good production and his incisiveness will provide a different kind of weapon than Elis on the opposite wing. As Chirinos is better at keeping the ball close to his feet, and at combining with teammates, Honduras will look to trust often in counters but also when the smaller sides of this tournament attempt to stifle Honduras’ attack with numbers behind the ball.
Henry Figueroa (CB)
The center back, who was heavily criticized during the 2018 WC qualifying campaign, will need to step into leadership for Honduras during this Gold Cup. Maynor Figueroa his likely partner at the back is showing his age, and the Motagua youth product will have to take it upon himself to ensure that defense is quick when balls are played behind them, and strong when defending crosses. Currently a starter at Alajuelense of the Costa Rican league, Henry isn’t great on the ball like Maynor is and has been, but he is a good reader of the game, and is absolutely fearless going into tackles. He can exposed against the most skillful players on 1v1 situations, but he has great recovery speed. He will want to maybe make a jump to MLS or Europe, and this could be the platform that propels him that way.

Points of Discussion

  • Can Coito improve defensive performances?

    In the 2018 qualifiers, Honduras let in late goals at Panama (90th minute by Roman Torres), vs USA (85th Minute Bobby Wood), at Costa Rica (90th + 5 minute by Kendall Waston). All those goals came from crosses that were not dealt with or lack of concentration. It turned out to be the achilles heel of the national team. Can Coito ensure better solidity? He might have to make some changes, which leads to…
  • How long can Maynor Figueroa and Emilio Izaguirre start in defense?

    Figueroa, the former Wigan Athletic and Hull City defender now at MLS, is both the captain of the team and was one of the most scrutinized players for not qualifying. His decline in athleticism has exposed his bad positioning issues, and rivals have taken advantage of this. But as the captain and leader of the national team, it will be a tough decision to bench him. Similar with Izaguirre who is one of the emotional leaders of the team, and has so much European experience with Celtic. But at the Glasgow side, Izaguirre has not been chosen often since he returned from his short time in the Saudi league. Leading to the question on whether he is being chosen on what he can do or what he has done for the national team.
  • Can Honduras finally win a major trophy?

    Honduras has only once won the CONCACAF Championship/Gold Cup, and it was at home in a tournament that doubled as World Cup qualifying. Since 1981, Honduras has not lifted any actual hardware. There have been feel good stories, like in 1991 losing out in the final of the first Gold Cup to the USA in penalties, or the 2001 Copa America third place in what was Honduras’ first and only participation in that tournament. Honduras is thirsty for a trophy, and with key absences in the Mexican side, plus a renewed spirit from the new manager, Honduras might have a reason to hope this summer.

JAMAICA , via kauliflower_

About

  • Nickname(s): Reggae Boyz
  • CONCACAF Gold Cup Appearances: 11
  • Best Finish: Runner Ups (2015, 2017)
  • FIFA Ranking: 53 (5th in CONCACAF)

Introduction

Jamaican Football has not been this exciting since the late 90s when current head coach, then top striker, Theodore "Tappa" Whitmore and Co. lead the nation to a first World Cup appearance at France 98'. After various false revivals this crop of Jamaican footballers is arguably the best in two decades. After being outplayed in two Gold Cup finals in a row the Reggae Boyz will be looking to make it third time the charm with another deep run expected by a team full or experience, talent and youth.
Beating the USA in a recent friendly on the eve of the tournament (albeit a weaker USA starting 11) will surely give a mental boost to the players and management in their hopes to repeat the exploits of 2015 and 2017. Many key players have been retained in all positions from the previous Gold Cup campaign with a few fresh faces, some long overdue.

Manager and Squad

Manager: Theodore Whitmore (Jamaica)

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

 D. Mattocks B. Brown P. Vassell L. Bailey M. Hector K. Lambert K. Lawrence S. Francis D. Lowe A. Powell A. Blake (C) 

Players to Watch

Andre Blake (GK)
Goalkeeper for the current MLS Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia Union has been a key players for club and country for the past seasons. After suffering a heartbreaking injury in last tournament's final (NSFW?), he will be hoping to lead the team to another final as captain and custodian.
Peter-Lee Vassell (AM)
Recently drafted by Los Angeles FC in the MLS Draft, Vassel is a creative midfielder not often seen among Jamaican youths. Although struggling for game time at high fliers LA FC, when he puts on the national jersey he shows the potential, vision and creativity that convinced LA FC to acquire the service of the young midfielder. He can use this tournament to convince Bob Bradley he deserves a starting spot at Los Angeles.
Leon Bailey (RW)
The Bayer Leverkusen winger has finally committed to the Reggae Boyz after stand-offs with the Jamaican Football Federation and his management (His Step-father) and himself (situation is too long to explain in this post). His pace and skills on the wing and his eye for goal may be what gives Jamaica an edge in this year's Gold Cup. If he's on his game, he could be a top 5 player in CONCACAF.

Points of Discussion

  • Third time's the charm?

    With the USA seemingly still suffering from demons of that warm night in Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico with a solid but not spectacular team, and Canada and Costa Rice with slightly aging squads, all things are aligning for a first nation to win the Gold Cup since Canada in 2000. Jamaica have their fates in their own hands and should not fear any of the teams in CONCACAF.
  • Leon Bailey

    Leon Patrick Bailey. Where to start. Born in Jamaica, he was taken to Europe by his step-father along with his step-brother with the intent to find European clubs for his then minor children. After arriving in Europe and shocking scouts of various teams (KRC Genk of Belgium a front runner) he and his family had to return to Jamaica but that did not stop the Baileys and after a couple 'not so legal' encounters, a verbal agreement with Ajax FC and a police raid, Leon Bailey eventually signed for AS Trencin as a youth player, eventually moving to KRC Genk as his first professional contract. Bailey won the Belgian Young Player of the Year in his first season at Genk and attracted many clubs, halfway into his second season in Belgium, Bayer Leverkusen came and he signed in Janaury 2017. His time in Germany has had many ups and downs but he has shown his skills and aggressive dribbling in a very up and down Leverkusen team. After failing to be eligible for England and seemingly burying the hatchet after 2 or so years of conflict with the JFF, Bailey is donning the Black, Green and Gold. However, all this turmoil the worst thing that could happen is him not showing up in this tournament, after all this is his performance at the senior international level.

EL SALVADOR via Currul

About

  • Nickname(s): La Selecta, Los Cuscatlecos, La Azul y Blanco
  • CONCACAF Gold Cup Appearances: 11 Times
  • Best Finish: Quarter-finals (2002, 2003, 2011, 2013, 2017)
  • FIFA Ranking: 71 (9th in CONCACAF)

Introduction

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, it was the first country from that region to qualify to a World Cup (Mexico 1970). Twelve years later ‘La Selecta’ would qualify for their second (and last to date) World Cup in Spain 1982 where they scored their first goal in a World Cup ik the first game where they lost to Hungary in a historical game that ended 10-1. The Salvadorian National Team has won the gold medal at the Central American and Caribbean games in two occasions (1954 and 2002). El Salvador had some troubles qualifying to the 2019 edition of the World Cup after a shocking lost against Bermuda but they earned their ticket in their last game of the Concacaf Nations League after beating Jamaica 2-0 at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador.
Soccer is the most popular sport in the country even though the country have not qualified to the World Cup in 37 years. The Cuscatlecos enter this Gold Cup in great form and in a winning streak of 5 games in a row after beating Haiti twice (1-0), Guatemala (3-1), Jamaica (2-0) and Peru (2-0).

Manager and Squad

Manager: Carlos de los Cobos (Mexico)

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

 N. Bonilla J. Alas M. Monterrosa D. Cerén Ó. Cerén N. Orellana J. Jiménez R. Domínguez I. Mancía B. Tamacas H. Hernández (C) 

Players to Watch

Óscar Cerén (RM)
The younger of the Ceren brothers, probably the player with most protection in the country at the moment. He was an important part for Alianza in order to reach 6 finals in a row. Rumors had linked him to MLS before so we’ll see if the Gold Cup is the tournament that makes him migrate to another league.
Narciso Orellana (DM)
The best midfielder in the country at the moment, key player in Alianza too, has the quality to migrate to another league and Alianza had received offer from Europe for him but the money wasn’t right for them. The 24 year old will be essential for the midfield in El Salvador for years to come. Because his dimunitive 5'7" (170 cm) stature, he retains the ball easily and his aggressive style of play is something to look out for.
Nelson Bonilla (ST)
Currently the most successful Salvadorian playing in a foreign league after scoring 25 goals in 32 games in 2018 for the Sukhothai in Thailand, Bangkok United paid more than 1 million dollars to sign him. Wirh 14 goals in 40 games, a lot of the hope for goals in El Salvador is on Bonilla’s back.

Points of Discussion

  • Momentum!

    For the first time in a long time Salvadorians are expecting and with hope that the team will perform good in the tournament after showing a good style and game the friendlies played, who knows maybe this year will be the first time that ‘La Selecta’ reaches more than Quarter Finals in the Gold Cup.
  • Lack of goals in the past

    El Salvador has struggled finding a reliable goal scorer for the team after the match fixing ban in 2012 that took out of professional soccer 11 players from the national team and gave temporal bans to a couple more including Rodolfo Zelaya who at that moment was the starting forward and the player with most talent in the team. Can Bonilla, Rugamas or Portillo finally fill the shoes of the great Raul Diaz Arce, Ronald Cerritos and Rudis Corrales who were the last great goal scorers in La Selecta.
  • Can de los Cobos make the match fixing ghost go away?

    Even though is being 7 years after the ban most of the fans have not forgotten about it, Carlos de los Cobos was the coach when the Match Fixing happened and no one really know how much he knew about everything or even if he knew anything a all, that was one of the most painful memories in recent time for Salvadorian fans as the team were in a good route to qualify to the 2010 World Cup but made some questionable mistakes in key games that later on were found as fixed. We’ll see if this generation is the one that finally is going to throw away that bad memory for Salvadorian fans.

CURAÇAO , via ArawakFC

About

  • Nickname(s): n/a
  • CONCACAF Gold Cup Appearances: 2
  • Best Finish: Group Stage (2017)
  • FIFA Ranking: 82 (15th in CONCACAF)

Introduction

Curaçao used to play as the Netherlands Antilles up until 2010. The only notable achievements being two 3rd place finishes in 1963 and ’69 in the old CONCACAF championship(1963-1989), which was the predecessor to the Gold Cup.
In 2010 that all changed as they gained their constituent country status. The “Curaçao Football Federation” was established in 2011, making it the youngest football federation in the world. In June 2015, Patrick Kluivert, who’s mother is from Curaçao, was brought in to coach the team and he started to raise the bar for the then mostly amateur team. With Kluivert’s pedigree, it was now possible to recruit professional players, playing in the Eredivisie, lower levels of the Dutch footballing pyramid and across other European leagues. The most notable players recruited at that time were Eloy Room(GK) and Leandro Bacuna(MF). In just one year, Kluivert managed to equal the amount of wins(6) the team managed from 2011-2014.
With much of the groundwork laid out by Kluivert, his successor, assistant coach Remco Becentini led the team to their first ever title in 2017, beating Jamaica to take the Caribbean Cup. The key player though in the final wasn’t any of the players born in the Netherlands, but it was Willemstad born and raised Elson Hooi, who netted a brace to secure Curaçao’s first triumph in its history as an autonomous nation. To give everyone an idea of the scale of the achievement, Curaçao went from being 183rd (lower than Aruba) in the FIFA rankings to 68th in a period of just 3 years.
The Gold Cup in 2017 wasn’t a success, having lost all 3 of their group stage matches to Jamaica, Mexico and El Salvador. However, the experience playing at such a tournament for the first time would prove to be invaluable for a team aspiring to become the smallest nation to reach the FIFA world cup.
Recently, the team participated in the CONCACAF nations league qualifiers which also doubled as qualifiers for the Gold Cup. Curaçao showed that they now belong in the upper tiers of CONCACAF, having seemingly outgrown most of the other Caribbean island nations.

Manager and Squad

Manager: Remko Bicentini (Netherlands)

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

 J. Arias E. Hooi R. Bonevacia G. Nepomuceno L. Bacuna M. Maria J. Carolina D. Lachman C. Martina (C) J. Gaari E. Room 

Players to Watch

Cuco Martina (RB/CB)
One of the most experienced players in the squad, having played in the Premier League and Eredivisie, he will be critical for organizing the team in defense and for overall motivation and moral. Together with Room, they have the Captain duties within the squad. While normally a right back, Becentini has used him in central defense as well.
Leandro Bacuna (CM)
Another experienced player in the Championship and Premier League, his presence and quality on the ball, but also his physicality will be needed in midfield. His skill and ability on the ball is miles ahead of most teams in the Caribbean region. His verstatility will also be of use, capable of playing quite literally anywhere in midfield and fullback if absolutely needed
Elson Hooi (LW)
Small, quick and versatile at 5'6" (67 cm). Was a key player for them in the Caribbean cup. If Hooi starts firing again, he is an incredible joy to watch and dangerous in attack.
And when I say quick, I mean QUICKKKK, can be a bit selfish with the ball at times but can skin defenders. Think of him as a shorter, less bulky Adama Traore

Points of Discussion

  • "Total Football" principles introduced by Patrick Kluivert

    Curaçao plays a possession game, building out from the back with ever present “triangles”. They need to take care of their defense, because it is not the most sound with only Martina having top level experience. Which is why Cuco Martina is selected to play center back at times. What they need to avoid at all cost, is an injury to goalkeeper and captain Eloy Room. The keeper position is the one with the least depth and if Room is out, they are left with one EFL League Two keeper and an amateur keeper from Curaçao’s own Vesta.
  • To close....

    Curaçao went from a mostly amateur side, to almost a full professional side in under a decade. They did this by hiring Kluivert and supporting him in trying to get Dutch born players with roots in Curaçao to choose to play for the national team. Players like Kuwas (who elected to not play this Gold Cup), Bacuna and Room all played for the Dutch youth sides. Looking at the future, there are also plenty of Curaçao born and Dutch born players of Curaçaoan descent currently playing for various youth sides in Europe. With proper coaching and infrastructure and the willingness to improve, I can’t bet against this side advancing passed the group stage of the Gold Cup and I can’t help but imagine if they can make the World Cup given that CONCACAF have two extra spots this time around from 2026 onward.
Tune in tomorrow when sardar_star will be posting Group D!

Don't forget to participate in the Predictions Game in the comments below!

PREVIOUS REVIEWS

GROUP A: Mexico, Canada, Martinique, Cuba

GROUP B: Costa Rica, Haiti, Nicaragua, Bermuda

submitted by BuzzBuzz01 to soccer [link] [comments]

Weekly Round-Up: January 20th - January 26th

Previous thread: January 13th - January 19th

Here's everything that happened in the /bangtan realm within the past week, compiled for your convenience! If you have suggestions on how to make this compilation more readable, categorised better, etc. please leave a comment or send me a PM.
The latest weekly round-up can be found in the sidebar of the subreddit. The link to the archive of past round-up posts can always be found in the wiki index.

2020 Map of the Soul World Tour Megathread

New Releases

190120 Halsey & SUGA - SUGA's Interlude (Lyric Video) Thread

News & Information

200120 Big Hit will hold another 'Corporate Briefing with the Community' on February 4, similar to the one they held last August.
200120 BTS nominated in 3 categories for NME Awards 2020
200121 Member VLives from Channel+ Now Freely Available
200122 BTS Map of the Soul Tour Dates
200122 Weply: Get your USA & CANADA tour tickets the EARLIEST with the exclusive ARMY MEMBER PRESALE & Ticketmaster Verified Fan registration!
200122 RM and J-Hope of BTS have been promoted to regular members of the Korea Music Copyright Association, following their bandmate SUGA who became a regular member in 2018
200122 BTS has been nominated for 3 categories for the 17th Korean Music Awards including Musician of The Year
200122 BTS to perform at the Grammys along Lil Nas X, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Diplo
200123 Prosecution has decided to not indict Jungkook over his car accident incident in 2019
200123 BTS Fanclub Etiquette Notice
200123 BTS Has Been Added to the Official Performers Line-up for the 2020 GRAMMY Awards
200124 BTS Microphone set raised $83,200 for Musicares charity
200125 Lauv’s new album How I’m Feeling to feature BTS

Official Media

Type Date Title Thread
Bomb 200120 [BANGTAN BOMB] Let's warm up! Thread
Bomb 200123 [BANGTAN BOMB] BTS meets Pengsoo! @ 2020 GDA Thread
Episode 200125 [EPISODE] BTS (방탄소년단) @ 2018 SBS 가요대전 Thread
Photos 200124 Happy New Year 2020 Thread
Run BTS! 200121 Run BTS! 2020 - EP.92 Thread
Teaser 200122 BTS (방탄소년단) MAP OF THE SOUL TOUR SEOUL SPOT Thread
V Live 200122 Taehyung Vlive Thread
Other 200121 [CONNECT, BTS] Interview with Tomás Saraceno @ Buenos Aires Thread

Official SNS

Date SNS Title Thread
200120 Twitter BTS: Thank you so much for all your love! Who else is listening to #BlackSwan with us? 🦢 Thread
200120 Twitter BTS: 😍🤞 #SUGAsInterlude #Halsey #manic Thread
200120 Instagram BTS #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200120 Twitter V and Choi Wooshik 1 Thread
200120 Twitter V and Choi Wooshik 2 Thread
200121 Weverse j-hope WeVerse post discussion
200121 Instagram 2020.01.21 🇺🇸 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200122 Weverse Weverse Discussion Post
200122 Instagram 2020.01.21 🇺🇸 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200122 Weverse Tae Weverse Discussion Thread
200123 Twitter Hoseok Thread
200123 Twitter BTS is now following Ariana Grande on Twitter Thread
200123 Twitter Jungkook and V with Pengsoo Thread
200123 Instagram 2020.01.22 🇺🇸 #실시간방탄 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200124 Twitter “We will be back.” Excited to perform along amazing artists at the #GRAMMYs @RecordingAcad Thread
200124 Instagram 2020.01.23 🇺🇸 #실시간방탄 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200125 Weibo BTS on Weibo Thread
200125 Weibo BTS_official update: Chinese Conversation Thread
200125 Instagram 2020.01.24 🇺🇸 #실시간방탄 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢
200126 Instagram 2020.01.25 🇺🇸 #실시간방탄 #BlackSwan #MAP_OF_THE_SOUL_7 🦢

CF & Partnerships

200120 FILA x BTS (individual member clips) - compilation
200121 FILA x BTS (SUGA and j-hope individual clips)
200121 Starbucks Korea said the ‘Key ring’ has been sold out and the other merchandise are 80% sold
200123 KB Kookmin bank
200123 Formula E Korea Instagram
200124 FILA x BTS (photos)
200125 Fila UK Instagram
200125 FILA x BTS (Happy 2020 photos pt. 2)

Articles

Date Publisher Title Thread
200120 K-media Lee Yikyung mentioned why he doesn’t invite BTS‘s Jin to his screenings Thread
200121 Korea Herald Halsey says working with BTS one of best experiences in life Thread
200121 Metro MN Dance Company – the brains behind BTS’ Black Swan video – on how they brought the stunning film to life Thread
200122 Forbes BTS’s ‘Black Swan’ Can Help Them Break Records Even If It Doesn’t Become A Top 10 Hit Thread
200122 The DP From McKinsey to Kpop: Wharton alum co-writes BTS's new single 'Black Swan' Thread
200122 Forbes BTS Owns Almost Half Of All The Spots On Billboard’s World Albums Chart Thread
200123 K-media According to the survey by K media (24 idol groups, 116 idols) the idol group who they want to collaborate the most was BTS Thread
200123 K-media Kmedia reports BTS will be the first Korean act in history to perform on the Grammy stage(also in 3 major US Award Shows) Thread
200123 Billboard The 2020 Billboard Power List Revealed (includes Bang Si Hyuk) Thread
200124 Billboard BTS, Diplo & More to Join Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus in a 'Grammy Moment' Rendition of 'Old Town Road' Thread
200124 Hello Asia! BTS are the world's most revolutionary artists right now: Here's why it's making people uncomfortable Thread
200124 The Guardian The Guardian’s review of Black Swan: “Bizarre. And, somehow, brilliant.” Thread
200124 EliteDaily Will BTS Perform 'Black Swan' At the Grammys? Fans Think They're Hiding Something Thread
200124 Financial Times BTS and the birth of K-pop art Thread
200125 CentralSauce J-Hope’s Journey: From Teenage B-Boy to BTS’ Rap Star Thread
200126 Inquirer Filipino songwriters share how they helped create BTS’ ‘Black Swan’ Thread
200125 TeenVogue BTS ARMY Help Center Partners With Crisis Text Line for Mental Health Support Thread

SNS Mentions

NOTE: Entries with 💜 have new content directly involving BTS
Date 💜 Title Thread
200119 Instagram: 'Drawings for My Grandchildren' painted Black Swan Thread
200120 Mark Miller gives a shoutout to to BTS and thanks ARMY on his Instagram Thread
200121 MAX posts about 'Black Swan' oh his Instagram Story Thread
200122 💜 Instagram: Choi Wooshik with Taehyung Thread
200123 Stacy Nam's IG Story Thread
200123 💜 Ariana Grande with BTS Thread
200122 💜 Tae on Choi Wooshik’s Instagram TV Thread
200123 World Music Awards tweets about #WHEREISYOONGI Thread
200123 iHeartRadio: We have no choice but to stan these legends, BTS x Ariana Grande Thread
200123 Diplo tweets about BTS "GIVE BTS A SOLO PERFORMANCE, ARMY DEMANDS IT" Thread
200125 💜 CBS Instagram: BTS at Grammy Rehearsal Thread
200125 Instagram: Son Sungdeuk Thread
200125 Zach Sang asking for interview questions! Thread
200126 💜 Instagram: The Lab Studios: BTS rehearsal Thread
200126 BTS Lawyer Debbie White and Big Hit Co-CEO Lenzo Yoon attend Clive Davis / Sony Music pre-Grammy Gala Thread
200126 Connect BTS Seoul Teaser by Artist Yiyun Kang Thread
200126 Famous Director Baz Luhrmann Liked BTS Latest Instagram Post Thread
200126 💜 Suga in Docskim Instagram story Thread

Other media

NOTE: Entries with 💜 have new content directly involving BTS
Type 💜 Date Title Thread
Cover 200122 BTS(방탄소년단) - Not Today / Dokteuk Crew Choreography Thread
Cover 200125 Jun Curry Ahn violin cover of 'Black Swan' Thread
Radio 200122 Ash London Live: HALSEY Shares Her Love For BTS's SUGA Thread
Reaction 200120 BTS - 'Black Swan' (spotify ver. vs art film) reaction by reacttothek Thread
Reaction 200121 Dancer Breaks Down Blood Sweat and Tears Choreography Thread
Video 200119 BTS Choreographers Quick Style Perform To "Ain't No Sunshine" - America's Got Talent: The Champions (BTS mentioned) Thread
Video 200120 BTS in Fantano's Weekly Track Roundup Thread
Video 200120 5SOS' Michael says that Jungkook & Yoongi are his biases Thread
Video 200120 Halsey talks about working with Yoongi for Suga’s Interlude Thread
Video 💜 200121 SBS edit of Dionysus with Jungkook focus Thread
Video 💜 200122 Golden Disc Awards Behind (with BTS) Thread
Video 💜 200122 KBS Gayo Daechukje: The Earth Traveler (All the artists) - Behind the scenes Thread
Video 200122 CBSLA News: BTS Returns To SoCal This May For ‘Map Of The Soul’ Tour Thread
Video 💜 200124 SBS edit of J-Hope in Dionysus - WELCOME HOPEWORLD💜 (2019 Gayo Daejeon) Thread
Video 💜 200124 Grammys "Old Town Road" Rehearsals Lil Nas X, BTS, Billy Ray Cyrus, Diplo, and Mason Ramsey / Mirror Thread
Video 200125 Best of BTS Jimin on Radio Disney Thread
Video 200125 [ENG SUB] 방탄천국-방탄TMI #6. (BTS Choreography Analysis) Thread
Video 200125 [ENG sub] Who knows BTS better than me? The Experts - BTS episode Thread
Other 200124 Grammy seating chart Thread
Other 200126 BTS seated with Ellen, Beyonce and Jay-Z at Grammys Thread

Milestones

Type Date Thread
Charts/Sales 200120 Official Chart: First Look - BTS are heading for their third UK Top 40 single with Black Swan
Charts/Sales 200123 Love Yourself: Answer has been certified RIAA platinum for selling 1M+ Units in the USA
Charts/Sales 200123 'Idol' Has Been Certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA
Charts/Sales 200124 BTS's song Boy With Luv has received a Gold Certification in Colombia
Charts/Sales 200124 "Black Swan" debuts at #77 on the German Singles Chart
Charts/Sales 200125 BTS' Black Swan debuts at #49 on the Official Irish Singles Chart
Charts/Sales 200124 "Black Swan" is BTS’s Milestone 10th charting single in the UK (#46)
Charts/Sales 200125 ‘Black Swan’ debuts at #10 on ARIA Digital Tracks Chart (Australia)
Streams 200120 BTS's 'FAKE LOVE' has surpassed 300 MILLION streams (2nd song to do so)
Streams 200123 'Serendipity (Full Length Edition)' has surpassed 70 MILLION streams on Spotify
Streams 200125 BTS's 'Black Swan' has surpassed 5 Million streams and 600,000 cumulative unique listeners on Genie
Streams 200126 'Winter Bear' surpassed 100 million streams on Soundcloud, making V the first Korean solo artist with 2 songs at over 100 million streams
Other 200122 BTS has now spent 162 weeks at #1 on the Social 50(Only one week from tying the all-time record for most weeks at #1)
Other 200122 "Black Swan" has been added to "Today's Top Hits" on Spotify
Other 200123 Black Swan predicted to debut #60 on Billboard Hot 100

BT21

200120 TATA's elastic embrace in full effect. 👍 📸#StickTogether #Cuddle #Friendship #StretchyArms #PhotoShoot Thread
200122 Winter is where it’s at. 🛷 The cold doesn’t bother UNIVERSTARs! #HowToEnjoy #Winter Thread
200123 We're rooting for you. 💓
200124 Sniff Can you smell that sweetness in the air...?!🍪 #BT21_UNIVERSE #ANIMATION #EP07, Part 1 SHOOKY's story is extended to two episodes! Thread
200126 Happy Lunar New Year! 🎆 Let’s keep up the New Year's resolutions! ​#LunarNewYear Thread
BT21 merchandise news
200126 The streets of old town Seoul is expecting some very plushy guests.😉 #HANBOK #EDITION

Misc

Tour promo sightings and ticketing leaks happened before official announcements
200120 Dates for BTS’ upcoming tour are on VIP Nation
200120 Run BTS! Episode 92 will air January 21 at 9PM KST
200120 BTS MAP OF THE SOUL TOUR on Live Nation
200121 Names of BTS Currently Projected on Rogers Centre Roof in Toronto
200121 A Floridian ARMY passed by a tour promo billboard for BTS
200121 Friends of mine passed by Levi's Stadium and found something amazing!
200121 Spotted on Chicago train platform this morning!

Subreddit

Community posts

Top Discussion Posts

  1. [+486] Some pro tips on getting tickets for the up coming tour.
  2. [+178] What are some of the funniest iconic moments of previous comebacks?
  3. [+127] What trend(s) have you noticed in ARMYs and their biases?
  4. [+94] How Has BTS Inspired you to Speak Yourself?
  5. [+81] Songs from older albums you’d like to see at the upcoming Map of the Soul Tour?

Weekly threads

Fanart

Here are past week's top 5 fanart posts from their new home, /heungtan!
Submitter Thread
yaxgami MOTS:7 SHADOW!!! That's it! I'm late tho...
riiisa My sister loves BTS and puns so I drew some for her 😊
crustydustymusty I painted my calculator to make it look like the Hope World Album. It’s not the best but I hope you like it! :)
wherearetheturnips I'm back at it again. I saw this very cute artwork of V as Snow White done by an artist named hachi (I believe, although, I'm having a hard time finding the right social media accounts to credit), and I converted the image into a cross stitch pattern.
Akira_Aoki00 Yoongi's Fanart by @lil_monster_is_here on instagram
submitted by llaverna to bangtan [link] [comments]

How to Take Advantage of the Mobilewins Free Bet

How to Take Advantage of the Mobilewins Free Bet
https://preview.redd.it/tyv00jm1gx451.jpg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=06fd60cf3de03d7d8aecdb4f194cfcf67f8a4846
Online bookmakers incite new members with welcoming bonuses and claiming them is a very easy process. If you haven’t discovered online betting by now, you will certainly feel more encouraged to do it when you receive special offers and access to a variety of markets, favorable odds, statistics and predictions. There are various platforms out there and they claim to offer amazing features. Mobilewins free bet and Boylesports free bet are good examples of what you can access.

What is Mobilewins Free Bet

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The UK online sportsbook provides access to multiple casino games, slots, and more. However, the platform specializes in betting and sports as well, offering fixed bets on markets such as horse racing, greyhounds, soccer, TV, politics, e-sports, and more. It has something for everyone and it is less likely not to find something to meet your preferences. The welcoming bonus is perfect to get punters up and running, offering a higher value for them to test their predictions and luck. You can claim the bonus and use it for an upcoming sporting event or on what is available at that moment.

Why Claim Boylesports Free Bet

https://preview.redd.it/008pb7g2gx451.jpg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=51bb8722d68828a6c34b6b4f14fb0e11fa7e7794
The Boylesports free bet is quite substantial and claiming it is a breeze. Nothing is complicated when it comes to creating an account and you should be willing to provide contact information and some personal data. The bonus is offered to new members that make a deposit of £10 and place bets at odds of ½ or greater. Initially, they will receive £5, but this offer is provided up to 4 times, meaning a total of £25 in the end. After making the initial bet, it takes about one hour to see the amount in your account.
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Many people appreciate the effort of bookmakers to offer bonuses and promotions, in order to attract as many members as possible. The Mobilewins free bet is very tempting and there are various offers released from time to time, especially during the holiday period. If you are a casino enthusiast and want to try the experience along with betting, the platform has a casino section. This way, you can obtain the best from two worlds, on the same platform and using the same account. It is more convenient and you can access the mobile application to bet and gamble on the go.
Aside from the Mobilewins free bet, there are other considerations to take into account when selecting a betting site. Its layout and design matters, the level and availability of customer support, markets covered, odds, if statistics and relevant data are provided, and such. How fast can you withdraw money? This is also important, because many complain on certain platforms that they are unable to get their cash out and they have to wait too long, days and weeks even. This is quite frustrating and it is not worth the effort, because online betting has to be enjoyable and convenient.
Punters need to pay attention to the time and money they invest in online betting, because they should get the most out of them and this is possible when you choose the right platform. It is not complicated and you can go through the process on your own or trust a website that reveals the top choices for online betting and casinos. They do the research on your behalf, present bonuses, deposit methods, reviews, mention if they are licensed and if customer support is provided at all times. Also, they explain how to obtain the Mobilewins free bet and point out terms and conditions.
The same principle applies to Boylesports free bet, because it is crucial to know what to expect once you commit to a platform. The website also has a mobile application, so feel free to install it on your mobile device and bet from any location. You can take advantage of live stream and watch your favorite horse racing and Greyhound races while they take place.
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submitted by DanielMasonn to u/DanielMasonn [link] [comments]

2018/19 Premier League Season in Review: Watford F.C. [11th]

Watford F.C. 18/19

# P W D L GF GA GD PTS
11 38 14 8 16 52 59 -7 50

Hopes and Overall Grades

Hopes/Predictions at the start of the season?

Season Grade + Review


Manager Grade + Review

The XI

Best/Most Used XI + Tactics

 Foster Femenía Cathcart Mariappa Holebas Capoue Doucouré Hughes Pereyra Deeney Deulofeu 
TIFO FOOTBALL VIDEO ON WATFORD'S TACTICS UNDER GRACIA
Deeney usually drops in deeper and Pereyra and Hughes cut in so we crowd the middle and rely on Holebas and Femenia/Janmaat to provide us width.

Best/Worst Match and Goal of the Season

Best Match of the Season: Watford 3-2 Wolves (F.A. Cup Semifinal)

  • Beating Wolves at Wembley. both the best game for a Watford fan, and probably the best game as a neutral.
    2-0 down with eleven minutes to go, Watford's F.A. Cup final dream looked about done and dusted. Then Deulofeu scored a beauty in the 79' to get them within 1 and thanks to an injury time penalty by Captain Troy, Watford managed to force extra time and eventually won out with a second goal from Deulofeu.

Worst Match of the Season: Watford 0-4 Bournemouth

  • The 4-0 loss to Bournemouth was the worse result but we were down to 10 men for 65 minutes of it and Bournemouth were actually very good. The 0-0 draw away at Brighton was an utterly dire game of football which we deserved to lose by 2 or 3, but they couldn't shoot for shit.
    Goes without saying the 6-0 loss to Man City in the F.A. Cup final also has to be mentioned, though these responses were given before the final so that didn't make the cut.

Goal of the Season: G. Deulofeu vs WOL 79'

  • The cheek to pull that off

Season Awards

  • Goalkeeper of the Season: Ben Foster
    Shout out to Gomes tho, undefeated in 90 mins during cup competition this season (this was written before the final). great sendoff for him.
    Coming from relegated West Brom, one of the areas of need for the Hornets was keeper, and the 36 year old Premier League stalwart has brought some much needed class and experience to help out the backline. Foster lead the league this season in sweeper clearances with 32, with is 13 more than second place Neil Etheridge
  • Defender of the Season: José Holebas
    Only Digne has been the better fullback from outside the top 6.
    Gracia has had to trot out one of the cheapest, and oldest back fives in the league this season. With an average age of 32 and four of five being at least 30, Holebas has managed to have himself another decent season. Starting out the season on fire with 3 goals and 5 assists up until the year, the Greek's counting stats derailed a little bits since then, only registering one more assist since then. At 34, Holebas's aggresive style of play is still with him, seen by his 12 yellows and 1 red this season
    Honourable mention to Craig Cathcart, who ever since getting promoted with the Hornets from the championship has still managed to make himself the best CB at the club. This season even having his best goalscoring in the league with 3 goals in 36 matches. Northern Irish fans will be hoping he can up keep up his form during qualifiers.
  • Midfielder of the Season: Étienne Capoue
    Capoue has been our best performing midfielder
    Coming in at the start of the season to Nathaniel Chalobah still recovering from injury, Watford's previous record signing take advantage of his opportunity and made that spot next to Doucoure his and never looked back. The long legged, industrious midfielder also has the elegance on the ball to be be able to be comfortable in possession. Both he and Doucoure also have enough athleticism to drive forward towards goal when needed, especially Doucoure.
  • Forward of the Season: Gerard Deulofeu
    Maybe a bit controverisal to some Watford fans as the Spaniard can be a bit hit-and-miss. Interesting to note that his ten goals in the prem came only against 4 sides: Huddersfield (3 goals), Cardiff (4 goals, including a hat trick at the CSS), West Ham (2 goals), and Man City (1 goal)
    Despite this, his trickery and adeptness with the ball always make him a threat on the counters or when in possession, whether it be with Gray or Deeney.
    Honourable mention to Troy Deeney: We've lost 4 games to teams outside the top 6 this season, Deeney hasn't played 3 of them (the other one we were down to 10 men within 30 minutes). he's our most important attacker.
    An undisputed Watford legend, Deeney's leadership, hold up play, work rate, and thunderous penalties have been vital to whatever success the club has had since returning to the Premier League. The Birmingham native managed to get himself a very solid 9 goals and 5 assists in 32 matches in the league this season
  • Signing of the Season: Ben Foster (£2.5 million) and Gerard Deulofeu (£11.5 million)
    Foster has been great until the run in and more consistent over the season and probably better as a whole over this season. but Deulofeu is the reason we're in a cup final, so Deulofeu..
  • U-23 Player of the Season: Domingos Quina
    Pretty comfortably. Success has his good moments, just mixed in with a lot of bad
    Has been great when we've seen him with some quality goals.
    A part of Benfica's, Chelsea's, and West Ham's youth academies, Quina was snatched up from the Hammers last summer and has since seemed to a be a smart forward thinking acquisition for Watford. Representing Portugal at the youth level, the 19 year old has a bright future ahead of him
  • Disappointment of the Season: Several
    Doucoure hasn't been up to his usual high standards as much as I'd like. If you mean new players then I'd say Navarro because he's played all of about once I feel theres real quality there, Just needs some time to get the best out of him.
    Chalobah seemingly not recovering from his injury and hardly playing any part in this season. I worry about the boy.
    Kabasele was our best defender last season, but he's been a liability that has cost us games this season. Benched by fucking Mariappa.

Other

Shocking Moment of the Season: Deeney mask beef with Jimenez and the Wolves comeback

Heading into Next Season....

  • Defenders are of the upmost priority, we also need a striker. Otherwise I'm pretty happy, as long as we don't lose more than 1 of Doucs/Deulo/Pereyra.
  • CB is the only priority. Could do with a better RB and wide midfielders. A lot of our fans are expecting us to lose one of Doucoure, Deulofeu and Pereyra tho, reckon we'll be fighting relegation if we lose Doucoure and fail to replace him.

Previous Reviews

submitted by BuzzBuzz01 to soccer [link] [comments]

r/Soccer 2019 AFC Asian Cup Group C Profile: South Korea, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Philippines [3/6]

SOUTH KOREA via u/youngjabberwocker

About

Introduction

Hey there, ladies and gents. Merry Late Padoru Padoru Christmas to y’all!
Here’s another issue of my rantings and ravings on the dysfunctional funhouse of Korean football horror prospects for the Korean National Team in the 2019 edition of the Asia Cup. As per usual, I will go over a brief history of the country, coupled alongside a synopsis of Korea at the Asia Cup, and end with an analysis of our players and coaching staff. So without futherado, here is my mental vomit about Korean football.

A Very Quick and Unsatisfying Sparknotes of Our National History:

As with before, the history of Korea allegedly begins with Gojoseon (although this is very much based in partial mythological roots) and a She-Bear called Ungnyeo. Where we start to see our first real bit of history is in the period of the Korean Three Kingdoms (not to be confused with the Koei games since that’s the Chinese Three Kingdoms at the end of the Han Dynasty, although I’d give up my arm off to get a game of that). These three kingdoms were Shilla, Baekje, and Goguryeo who went through periods of war and peace lasting from 57 BC to 668 AD. With the help of the Tang Dynasty, Silla ended up unifying the kingdoms and creating the Korean nation, albeit they would later declare war of Tang over issues of military-governorship by the Tang over portions of Korea. Silla would rule for nearly 1000 years until it was overthrown by Goryeo/Koryo from whom we get our modern name of Korea. Goryo would lose much of its power shortly after its conquest by the Mongolian Yuan Dynasty, eventually being replaced by the final dynasty called Joseon. The most notable event during this time period was the Imjin War of 1592 where Japan led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi attempted to invade Korea. He was repelled by Yi Soon-Shin, who was tragically killed in the final battle after telling his men not to report his death and to keep beating the battle drums. Admiral Yi remains one of Korea’s most well-known, if not most popular and universally beloved, hero. Joseon would go on to last for a couple centuries more afterwards, going through relatively long periods of stability with a few hiccups here and there via the invasions by the Manchu/Qing. This dynasty lasted a little over 500 years before eventually being overthrown by the Japanese shortly after our annexation in 1910.
Much of our modern history revolves around three things: our time as a colony of Japan, the Korean War, and the dictatorship of Park Chung-Hee. To briefly go over each event, these time periods have some pretty serious modern implications in that they very much play into modern perceptions of certain countries. For instance, our colonization by Japan contributes to the anti-Japanese sentiment that arises whenever issues regarding the comfort women, Yasakuni Shrine, or the Dokdo/Takeshima Islands comes up. On that note, the Korean War and China’s support and intervention regarding North Korea similarly plays a role in anti-Chinese sentiment in Korea, in addition to certain issues such as our alliance with the United States and the THAAD missile systems. These nationalistic sentiments have been thankfully waning in recent years due to cultural exchange and mass tourism. Personally, I do not associate with nationalism to an extent outside of rooting for my country at sporting events, but it is important to understand where certain animosities and hostilities behind certain games comes from. The last event, the dictatorship of Park Chung-Hee, is a rather controversial topic as while many attribute Korea’s modern industrial miracle to him, he did so via the suppression of human rights and expression during his reign up until his assassination by his own Korean Central Intelligence Agency Director. Regardless, there are people on both sides who either revere him as the father of modern Korea or as a tyrannical despot who suppressed human rights.
Thus, you have your very rough and quick summary of Korean history. Congratulations! You are now eligible to make a clickbait Youtube video called, “Ten Facts YOU WON’T BELIEVE about Korea!”

An Even More Depressing Overview of Our Asia Cup Performance

So before we begin, it’s worth giving a brief overview of how the Asia Cup works since this has confused the living hell out of my on how many times it’s been overhauled. Since it’s found in 1956, the Asia Cup has more or less included a small number of teams (most recently featuring 16 teams), though this upcoming edition of the 2019 Asia Cup will feature 24 teams. There are six groups with four teams each. In addition, qualification for the Asia Cup also plays into qualification of the World Cup. The reward for winning the Asia Cup is a spot in the FIFA Confederations Cup. In general, the elite teams in the Asia Cup have been South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. Australia are the current champions and one of the most recent additions to the AFC.
Depending on who you ask, our performance at the Asia Cup has been either very successful or absolutely shambolic. Many Koreans tend to lean towards the latter as our status as one of the most elite teams in Asia would otherwise imply that we have won this tournament countless times. The stark reality is that we last won in 1956 and 1960. Yup, over 50 years ago, immediately after the Korean War practically wrecked everything in our country and split it in half.
Let that sink in.
Now, I’m not a particularly pessimistic person as watching Incheon United continually shit the bed for over 15 years does things to a person’s expectations. But Korea’s performance at the Asia Cup and last winning literally only after the Korean War is a disaster on par with the Korean Overwatch team ever losing the World Cup disappointing, to say the least. This will be Paulo Bento’s first real test as a coach, and there is a mixture of optimism and pessimism regarding as our coach for the 2015 Asia Cup, Uli “Shitlieke” Stielke made it to the finals and lost to Australia before hiring a masseuse as a coach on our team, which is to say that the Asia Cup isn’t necessarily a reflection on how a coach will perform in the long term. Regardless, Bento’s first few matches have shown promise and he has been willing to shed some of our liabilities over the past few months. For the first time in a while, I feel like I’m actually watching some coherent and watchable football. Not supermodel hot, but it’s more like a “girl next door” cute type of football.

Manager and Squad

Manager: Paulo Bento (Portugal)
Goalkeepers: Kim Seung-gyu (Vissel Kobe) , Kim Jin-hyeon (Cerezo Osaka) , Jo Hyeon-woo (Daegu FC)
Defenders: Kim Young-gwon (Guanzhou Evergrande) , Jung Seung-hyun (Kashima Antlers) , Kwon Kyung-won (Tianjin Quanjian) , Kim Min-jae (Jeonbuk) , Lee Yong (Jeonbuk) , Kim Moon-hwan (Busan IPark) , Hong Chul (Suwon Samsung Bluewings) , Kim Jin-su (Jeonbuk)
Midfielders: Ki Sung-yueng (Newcastle) , Jung Woo-young (Al-Sadd) , Koo Ja-cheol (FC Augsburg) , Hwang In-beom (Daejeon Citizen) , Ju Se-jong (Asan Mugunghwa) , Lee Jae-sung (Holstein Kiel) , Hwang Hee-chan (Hamburg SV) , Na Sang-ho (Gwangju FC) , Lee Chung-yong (VFL Bochum) , Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)
Forwards: Hwang Ui-jo (Gamba Osaka) , Ji Dong-won (FC Augsburg)

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

Players to Watch

Son Heung-Min: Not much else needs to be said about this man, practically already considered one of the greatest Korean and Asian footballers to play. His finishing and precision at Tottenham have proven him to rank amongst the upper echelons of football players in Europe. Of minor concern is whether or not this transitions over to the national team level as many notable Korean footballers have had issues with this. The major issues lies in how much we rely on our European players to pick up the slack of other players. This issue is further amplified by how our finishing and positioning on the offense end has been traditionally ineffective in comparison to how the rest of our team tends to function.
Of course, Son has a large supporting cast at Tottenham to take off a lot of heat, but the hope is that Korean can also provide a bit of relief from the inevitable amount of manmarking and pressure he will be receiving not only on the pitch but from bearing the expectations of an entire country on his back. The good thing at this point is that Son has little to worry about in terms of military service as he has already won the gold medal at the Asian Games. However, winning this tournament would do wonders for the legacy of the man who revitalized Korean football after Park Ji-Sung left. While I would not yet put him in the tier of Cha Beum-Kun, Son is certainly capable of reaching that mark in the coming years if he continues on his current pace of progression.
Kim Min-Jae: A young and promising player who has come up and revived a faltering Korean defense (no thanks to Jang Hyun-Soo). He currently plays for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, which has been one of the better teams in the K-League for the past few years. He would have been at the World Cup had it not been for an injury that sidelined him before he could participate. His last game against Australia cemented his place in the starting line-up as he proved that he has the speed and finesse that is required for a centreback. Add the fact that he is 190 cm, and you have one tall and strong player who can head away balls and create an imposing presence for corners.
Unfortunately, the current Wikipedia description of Kim Min-Jae’s international career is an unnecessarily long and in-depth storytelling of his own goal against Northern Ireland. The hope is that this Asia Cup turns some eyes towards his way so that he can secure a move to Europe and develop even further.
Hwang Ui-Jo: (Right) Hwang Ui-Jo isn’t necessarily young in footballing terms as he is currently 26. His career has been somewhat of a rollercoaster here and there as he occasionally has shown flashes of being a great striker and then reverts to a normal level. However, the past Asian Games saw Hwang literally turn into a gatling gun of goals where he was scoring left and right. Given, the Asian Games is a U-23 tournament, but the fact remains that Hwang has somehow rebooted his career and become a serviceable striker once more. In addition, he has shown the same level of consistency over at Gamba Osaka in Japan. The only question that remains is whether or not he can maintain this form not only during the Asia Cup but for the years to come to help Son with our often sputtering offensive woes.

Points of Discussion

Positive and Negative Points (Or How I Learned to Force Zombieland Saga Into Everything)

  • POSITIVE:

    Coaching
    I’m aware of the irony that Korea knocked out Paulo Bento’s Portugal in 2002 via Park Ji-Sung’s beautiful goal. Bento wasn’t Korea’s first choice, but anyone would’ve been better than the human embodiment of a horse’s gonorrhea-infested swollen anus in the form of Uli Stielke. Bento has made strides by not selecting old and fairly ineffective players who are no longer in form such as Kim Shin-Wook (no more random crosses into the box) or Jang Hyun-Soo (although that was a weird situation as shown below). In general, Bento has shown that he is knowing what he is doing, and he has selected a fair number of young players who show promise. This is definitely a transitional and developmental period of the Korean national team, so I’m looking forward to riding this ship with our Portuguese captain.
    The Bento Train is coming for that ass
    No More Jang Hyun-Soo
    For people unfamiliar with the tale of this utter moron, let me tell you. Jang Hyun-Soo was a defender who, for some unfathomable reason, kept starting for our national team and was one of the central (if not the main reason) why we conceded easy goals in Russia. Whether or not he had some secret nudes of the coaches or something is beyond me. Now, if that was the extent of his incompetence, that would be fine and I would generally refrain from attaching any inference on his character. But then he decided to break the number one taboo in Korean society: skipping on military service.
    Jang Hyun-Soo won exemption by winning gold at the 2014 Asian Games. From that point, he just had to do about 500 hours of community service over 3 years and do four weeks of basic training, a lot better than the forced two years of mandatory service while basically committing career suicide. This is the sort of stuff that Son Heung-Min almost lost his career over and fought hard to win. Jang proceeded to mindboggingly falsify his records by allegedly doctoring a photo or forging document. This subsequently got him banned for life from the Korean national team. The upside to this is that we opened up room for far better younger players, which I am looking forward to seeing during the Asia Cup.
    Remember kids, don’t forge government documents or you’ll have a bad time
    Easy Group
    I just know this is going to bite me in the ass, but our group is fairly easy to go through (no offense to the other teams). The hardest team in our group is China, who has been a rising power in terms of effectively shutting down our offense. Add the fact that the Big Mac Daddy Guus Hiddink is coaching in China for the U-21 team, and you have a recipe for a potential upset if Hiddink has been advising China. For those familiar with Asian football, China has been more or less causing us issues when we face them, most notably (and still seared into my memory), our 3-0 defeat where we had Kalbi AKA and old and overweight legendary Korean goalkeeper Lee Woon-Jae in goal.
    I can’t speak much for Kyrgyzstan or the Philippines aside from saying that I am a bit concerned about the Filipino goalkeeper, Neil Etheridge, who is very clearly one of the best in Asia. That being said, he’s only playing one match which is a bit disappointing but understandable. That being said, I’m looking forward to Korea testing their skills against Asia’s best teams.
    Woohoo for high expectations!
  • NEGATIVE:

    Coaching
    This is also a negative because, in short, Bento is a new raw coach in terms of the national team setup for Asia. If he can bring the same sort of initial success that he did with Portugal before he was dismissed, I think he’ll be able to survive and succeed in Asia. Ultimately, the World Cup is the biggest metric for a coach’s performance in Asia, but the Asia Cup is a pretty good starting spot. However, as I stated before, it’s not an absolutely certain measure.
    Inability to perform at the Asia Cup
    Really just a repeat of my above points, but to recap, our performance at the Asia Cup has been historically shambolic in recent years. I would say winning this tournament would easily be one of the great achievements in terms of our status in Asian football, next to beating Germany in 2018. If we can shake this off of our backs, we can perhaps try to reclaim the crown as the Kings of Asia rather than just shaking our canes and talking about the good old days when Korea didn’t play 뻥축구.
  • Random Facts:

    In spite of our major differences, the common cultural influences amongst Korea, China, and Japan is pretty evident. All three countries utilize Chinese characters to an extent with different interpretations. In addition, we tend to circulate the same myths, most notably the Legend of the Monkey King (called Sonohgong by Koreans) where the most famous figures the hero Sonohgong/Wukong/Goku (Korean/Chinese/Japanese names, respectively) and Samjang/Xuanzang/Sanzang (once again, Korean/Chinese/Japanese) who is better well known today in games as the Titty Monk in Fate Grand Order.
    There are many large overseas Korean communities around the world, ranging from those in China called Chosonjok (조선족), Japan called Zainichi Kangokujin (在日韓国人), America simply called Korean-Americans (한국계 미국인), and Central Asia called Koryo Saram (Корё сарам). For Japan, many of the Koreans were sent to Japan during the period of colonization. The ones living in China are mostly a byproduct of our borders. The Korean-Americans are mostly from late 19th to mostly 20th century immigration. Koreans in Central Asia are a bit of a sadder but interesting story where many were forcibly sent to Central Asia by the Soviet Union. In all, the Korean community is fairly strong across the world.
    We have some pretty baller ass flags. I would fully endorse having a unified Korea have one of these flags ranging from Goryeo , Joseon, or the Empire of Korea. So, with that preview, here’s to hoping Korea does well and finally shakes off the boogieman this Asia Cup! Let’s go, 화이팅!
    Korea is coming for that Asia Cup booty

CHINA PR , via u/75r6q3 and u/CrebTheBerc

About

  • Nickname(s): Team China , Team Dragon
  • AFC Asian Cup Appearances: 12
  • Best Finish: Runners-Up (1984, 2004)
  • FIFA Ranking: 78
  • FLAG
  • F.A LOGO

Introduction

China is the world's largest nation population wise with an estimated 1.4 billion people in 2016. However they’ve had trouble turning that into success in soccer as their population seems to focus primarily on either academic success or a more individual sports like at the olympics. An average of 1 field for every 260,000 people does not help either, although their current president Xi Jinping is trying to change that by encouraging investment in the sport.
~ via u/CrebTheBerc
Having in 11 Asian Cups since first qualified in 1976, Team China have never lifted the trophy once — even when they played at home in 2004 where they lost 1-3 to Japan. At their 12th attempt, the Dragons aim to lift the trophy with Marcello Lippi as their manager. After the failure to qualify for WC 2018, China would need to bounce back from the recent form to advance in the Asian Cup. Being placed in the same group with South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, and Philippines, China are expected at a minimum to advance to the knockouts, but only if they play to their full potential and show some consistency.
~ via u/75r6q3

Manager and Squad

Manager: Marcello Lippi (Italy)
Goalkeepers:Yan Junling (Shanghai SIPG) , Wang Dalei (Shandong Luneng) , Zhang Lu (Tianjin Quanjian)
Defenders: Feng Xiaoting (Guangzhou Evergrande) , Zhang Linpeng (Guangzhou Evergrande), Liu Yang (Shandong Luneng) , Shi Ke (Shanghai SIPG) , Yu Yang (Beijing Guoan) , Liu Yiming (Tianjin Quanjian)
*Midfielders: Zheng Zhi (Guangzhou Evergrande) , Wu Xi (Jiangsu Suning) , Hao Junmin (Shandong Luneng) , Chi Zhongguo (Beijing Guoan) , Yu Hanchao (Guangzhou Evergrande) , Jin Jingdao (Shandong Luneng) , Zhao Xuri (Tianjin Quanjian) , Zhang Chengdong (Hebei China Fortune) , Piao Cheng (Beijing Guoan)
Forwards: Wu Lei (Shanghai SIPG), Gao Lin (Guangzhou Evergrande), Yu Dabao (Beijing Guoan), Xiao Zhi (Guangzhou R&F), Wei Shihao (Beijing Guoan)

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

Players to Watch

Wu Lei: The 27-year-old forward is in terrific form this season and is defiantly the most anticipated Chinese player for the tournament. Crowned champion with Shanghai SIPG in the league, Wu Lei displayed his excellent eye for goal with 27 goals and 8 assists in 29 matches. Pace, clever runs, and creativity, he is definitely THE player to watch. However, his performances in international matches have always been criticised for his finishing touch in one-on-ones. Would he recover his form and be able to win some silverware for his country?
~ via u/75r6q3
Zheng Zhi: The 38-year-old veteran is still the backbone of the squad, and will be the oldest player at the tournament. The captain has made 102 appearances for China since 2002. He is probably most remembered by European fans for his spell at Charlton and Celtic from 2007 to 2010. Zheng Zhi still has incredible stamina for games and certainly still is the engine for the Chinese midfield with his defensive and attacking abilities. Though not being a guaranteed starter in club games last season, he still played 17 games and started them all, playing 1348 minutes in total with a pass success rate at 84%. His farewell to WC wasn’t the most glorious with a last-minute red card in the last game for qualification to stop a goal scoring chance, but he still has the Asian Cup to mark his career. This sure would be his last major tournament, and 1.3 billion people would wish him good luck.
~ via u/75r6q3
Yu Hanchao: The 31-year-old winger doesn’t have the most amazing stats, but definitely is one of the most creative players on the pitch. A quick and skillful dribbler, Yu Hanchao is a workhorse on the left wing. He made 10 assists from his 47 key passes in his 26 league games last season. He sure would be the key player to break the deadlock in games with his quick feet and pinpoint crossing abilities.
~ via u/75r6q3

Points of Discussion

  • Lippi's Swansong
    This is the last tournament that Chinese fans would enjoy Marcello Lippi as the manager as he stated that he would leave after his contract expires. But to be honest, some aren’t really satisfied with his performances. After regularly calling up young talents to friendly games, no solid system hasn’t been formed in the plays. Recent friendlies with India and Qatar are actually embarrassing to watch. Some fans are starting to question Lippi’s tactics. But we can only watch and hope they perform their best. With many young talents (Jin Jingdao, Wei Shihao, Shi Ke, etc.) being discovered recently, fans are most excited to see them perform well alongside the veterans. The more experienced players are mostly in their late 20s or early 30s, which would be an ideal age to face such a tournament. Fans certainly wish this tournament could also leave some great legacy for Chinese football.
    ~ via u/75r6q3
  • Formation/Setup: Lippi has mixed up formations a bit since earlier in the year. He’s implemented a 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2 with decent success, but seems to have also found a bit of success with a 3-4-3 in recent friendlies.
    ~ via u/CrebTheBerc
  • ** Questionable Defense**: Based off of recent matches China’s defense does not look all that confident. They should be ok against some of the smaller teams, but against teams like South Korea they are really going to be tested.
    ~ via u/CrebTheBerc

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC , via u/BuzzBuzz01

About

  • Nickname(s): The White Falcons
  • AFC Asian Cup Appearances: Debut
  • Best Finish: Debut
  • FIFA Ranking: 90
  • FLAG
  • F.A. LOGO

Introduction

The Kyrgyz Republic, a.k.a Kyrgyzstan, qualified for their first ever AFC Asian Cup in emphatic style, finishing with 14 points and coming second in a group containing India, Myanmar, and Macau. Kyrgyz football has been on the uptick since the start of the decade. The evolution in the country's football began with the appointment of Russian Sergey Dvoryankov as manager in 2012. Under Dvoryankov, Kyrgyzstan began naturalizing foreign footballers such as Daniel Tagoe of Ghana, and[Edgar Bernhardt and Vitalij Lux of Germany. Along with getting more Kyrgyz-born Russians into the squad, Kyrgyzstan experienced relative success in the past years, including their best ever World Cup Qualifying campaign this past cycle, where they notched 14 points and only two points behind second place Jordan in the second round of qualifying. They even gave AFC giants Australia a run for their money in Bishkek where they only lost 2-1, and arguably should have came away with at least a point despite them being ranked 177th in the world at the time. With only losing 5 of their last 16 matches, including wins over Syria and India, can the Kyrgyzs produce a fairytale run in one of the more difficult groups in the tournament?

Manager and Squad

Manager: Aleksandr Krestinin (Russia)
GK: Pavel Matiash (unattached), Valery Kashuba (Dordoi), Kutman Kadyrbekov (Dordoi)
DF: Valeri Kichin (Yenisey Krasnoyarsk), Baktyiar Duishobekov (Bashundhara Kings) , Tamirlan Kozubaev (Dordoi) , Mustafa Yusupov (Dordoi) , Aizar Akmatov (Alga Bishkek) , Daniel Tagoe (Chittagong Abahani Ltd.)
MF: Viktor Maier (SC Wiedenbrück), Edgar Bernhardt (GKS Tychy), Anton Zemlyanukhin (unattached), Aziz Sydykov (Dordoi) , Farhad Musabekov (unattached), Bekzhan Sagynbaev (Dordoi), Kairat Zhyrgalbek Uulu (Dordoi) , Odiljon Abdurakhmanov (FC Alay) , Murolimzhon Akhmedov (Dordoi) , Akhlidin Israilov (unattached) , Tursunali Rustamov (Alga Bishkek)
FW: Vitalij Lux (SSV Ulm), Mirlan Murzaev (Serik Belediyespor) , Ernist Batyrkanov (Dordoi)

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

Players to Watch

Anton Zemlyanukhin: The country's top goal scorer with 12 goals, he can play on either wing or through the middle as a creative midfielder. Expect him to all over the place in the final third when Kyrgyz have the ball as he has freedom to roam wherever he wants. He's also on set pieces and penalties.
Daniel Tagoe : The naturalised Kyrgyz, the Ghanaian will anchor the back line attempting to limit the likes of Hwang Hee-Chan, Wu Lei, and Phil Younghusband. It's likely that the Kyrgyz's could line up with 4 CB's across the back four, looking at set pieces as an opportunity to score. So look for Tagoe to be the primary target and chip in with some dangerous headers towards goal as well as shifting in and out between midfield and centre-half.
Milan Murzaev: An experienced player in the lower divisions of Turkey, Murzaev is a striker but will most likely be deployed on the wing for Kyrgyzstan. His ability to drift inside and help Lux out in the attack will critical to whether they can get some goals on the board.

Points of Discussion

  • Switch to a Defensive Approach?
    In one of the tougher groups in the competition , expect Kyrgyzstan to be defending in their own half quite a bit. As previously stated , it's possible that Krestinin could go for the Pulis approach and stick two centre halves at fullback. Essentially playing with a flat back 4.
    Though recently in a 4-0 friendly loss against Japan , they went with a 5-4-1 formation , with Tagoe acting as one of the centre-backs and using two taller, but natural fullbacks in Yusupov and Shakirov. So if they go with 4 at the back, Tagoe and Duishobekov can easily slot in an out between the centre-halves or back into midfield, and making the odd run into midfield and picking out a pass.
    When not defending in their final third , they maintained their block of 5 and 4 very well, with the lone striker trying his best to press the back line. It's when Japan started to near the final third that things got dicey, with the plan usually being that one centre back stepping to the ball really aggressively while two others try and cover behind him if the step doesn't work out. If they opt to go defensively , they will need to be able to accept the lack of attacking opportunities that they will have as well. In the Japan match they registered only 26% of the ball and only 2 shots in 90 minutes , and neither of them were on target. So if they're committed to defending for large chunks of match , they need to be prepared to look for an outlet on the wings. The thing is though, they do have a gameplan, as Krestinin is a man for details. Meanwhile, for example China, don't appear to have a real gameplan in their matches, they kind of just rely on their talented players to pull something out of the bag.
  • The Unexpected
    Obviously this is Kyrgyzstan's first major international tournament, and all three matches will be a special occasion , they got to the finals for a reason, and now it's a matter of showing some bottle and putting on a good first showing. Will they rise up and go toe-to-toe and leave everything out on the pitch? Or will they just go out there to "make up the numbers" and be happy they just qualified , getting trounced by several goals every match? They have the potential to go for a little cinderella run , but the White Falcons need to show that they are up for it on Asia's biggest stage.
  • Nationalised Recruits
    Reaching from former USSR nations , to African born players who play in the Kyrgyz League, or other European nations, the technical standard has been upgraded significantly with the nationalised players. As previously mentioned there’s Ghanaian centre back/midfielder Daniel Tagoe (now married to a Kyrgyzstani), Edgar Bernhardt who grew up in Germany, who captains the national team, while striker Vitalij Lux returned to bolster the attack of the country he left as a 6-year-old. It’s been a tough pursuit, that has cost the the Kyrgyz FA plenty of time, negotiation, scouting, research etc., put it seems all of that is paying its dividends now.

PHILIPPINES via u/BuzzBuzz01

About

  • Nickname(s): Azkals (Street Dogs)
  • AFC Asian Cup Appearances: Debut
  • Best Finish: Debut
  • FIFA Ranking: 116
  • FLAG
  • FA LOGO

Introduction

The Azkals enter the 2019 AFC Asian Cup as one of the three tournament debutants, alongside Yemen and fellow Group C mate the Kyrgyz Republic. Drawn into a final qualifying group consisting of Yemen, Tajikistan, and Nepal, there was a great sense of belief that the country could qualify for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. And so they did, with an undefeated record at that. For time, the Philippines were one of the laughingstocks of not just Asian football, but world football, at one point even being ranked as low as 195th in the world. With the introduction of foreign based players with Filipino ancestry such as the Younghusband brothers along with some success in regional competitions, football has grown tremendously in a country where basketball is the overwhelmingly more popular sport. After a semifinal exit in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup, the Philippines while hope they can continue their momentum into the UAE

Manager and Squad

Manager: Sven-Göran Eriksson (Sweden)
Goalkeepers: Nathanael Villanueva (Kaya FC-Iloilo) , Michael Falkesgaard (Bangkok United) , Kevin Ray Hansen (Horsens)
Defenders: Álvaro Silva (Kedah) , Carli de Murga (Ceres-Negros) , Daisuke Sato (Sepsi Sfântu Gheorghe) , Stephan Palla (Buriram United)
Midfielders: John-Patrick Strauß (Erzgebirge Aue) , Luke Woodland (Suphanburi) , Iain Ramsay (Sukhothai) , Manuel Ott (Ceres-Negros) , Adam Tull (Davao Aguilas) , Kevin Ingreso (Ceres–Negros) , Stephan Schröck (Ceres–Negros) , Miguel Tanton (Ceres–Negros) , Paul Mulders (Ceres–Negros) , James Younghusband (Davao Aguilas)
Forwards: Mike Ott (Ceres–Negros) , Jovin Bedic (Kaya FC-Iloilo) , Phil Younghusband (Davao Aguilas) , Patrick Reichelt (Ceres–Negros) , Curt Dizon (Ceres–Negros) , Javier Patiño (Buriram United)

POTENTIAL STARTING XI

Players to Watch

John-Patrick Strauß: A recent foreign recruit for the Azkals, Strauß elected to play for his mother's country. the German born central midfielder has already proven himself a key man in Eriksson’s line-up, in which he started every match (which he was available for) for at the recent Suzuki Cup. Alongside Schrock, Ingresso and the Ott brothers, Strauß might feature in all German-born midfield.
Phil AND James Younghusband: The two brothers who began the integration of foreign players with Filipino ancestry into the national team, alegedly after someone who was playing Football Manager discovered and notified that the Younghusband's were eligible for the Philippines. Born in Ashford, England, the Younghusband brothers are considered both greats of the national team, going through the highs and lows of Filipino football since they're commitment to the Azkals in 2005.
Phil (left) is the country's most capped player (105 caps) and top scorer of all time (52 goals). With Chelsea for 11 years until 2008, Younghusband plays as a striker and is the national teams captain has a fantastic goalscoring record in the Filipino league, with a >1 goal/game ratio.
James (right) is more of a wide midfielder, flirting in the lower divisions of the English game until 2010 when he then went to the Filipino League. Now with 100 caps to his name, he and his brother will shoulder the goalscoring responsibility for the Philippines.

Points of Discussion

  • (Initially) Unusual Neil Etheridge Exclusion
    Neil Etheridge , who arguably has the broadest set of shoulders in football (alongside Moussa Marega), was born in Enfield, and is the only ASEAN international currently playing in one of Europe's top 5 leagues, doing it with recently promoted Cardiff City in the Premier League. With an already a staggering 62 appearances for the Azkals, Etheridge is an experienced goalkeeper who provides a much needed security blanket for a defense that can be leaky and unorganized at times.
    A part of both Chelsea and Fulham's academy at one point, Etheridge bounced around the EFL looking for a team to give him a real opportunity. In 2015 he got his breakthrough with Walsall in League One, until two years later Warnock signed him for the Bluebirds on a free after he rejected an extension at Walsall.
    So WHY is he excluded from the AFC Asian Cup you may ask? The reasons were unknown initially. It has nothing to do with Etheridge's desire, since he's already played plenty for the national team and expressed his interest. Though in a recent presser by Warnock, it was stated that Etheridge didn’t want to lose his starting place at Cardiff, and that electing not to go to the Asian Cup was a big decision for him. And so far it’s worked! Keeping two consecutive clean sheets against Crystal Palace and Leicester City.
  • HEAVY integration of Foreign based players with Filipino ancestry: As previously stated, the Philippines have a heavy emphasis on recruiting players from all over the world with Filipino eligibility/ancestry to play for the national team. Overall, these additions have heavily improved the quality and progress of the Azkals on the Asian scene. Only FOUR of the 23 players in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup squad were born in the Philippines.
    • Phil and James Younghusband: Born in England
    • Curt Dizon (FW): Born in England
    • Adam Reed (MF): Born in the England
    • Stephan Palla (DF): Born in Austria
    • Iain Ramsay (MF): Born in Australia
    • Álvaro Silva (DF): Born in Spain
    • Carli de Murga (DF): Born in Spain
    • Manuel Ott (MF): Born in Germany
    • Kevin Ingreso (MF): Born in Germany
    • John-Patrick Strauß (MF): Born in Germany
    • Stephan Schröck (MF): Born in Germany
    • Mike Ott (FW): Born in Germany
    • Patrick Reichelt (FW): Born in Germany
    • Michael Falkesgaard (GK): Born in Denmark
    • Martin Steuble (DF): Born in Switzerland
    • Paul Mulders (MF): Born in the Netherlands
    • Luke Woodland (MF): Born in UAE to English father + Filipino mother
    Also also Many others from Canada, Belgium, Sweden, the USA, Italy, and Japan
Have a great New Year's eve and day, and tune in on Wednesday when u/FlyingArab will be posting Group D! Iran, Iraq, Vietnam, and Yemen

Don't forget to participate in the Predictions Game in the comments below!

submitted by BuzzBuzz01 to soccer [link] [comments]

top soccer prediction sites in uk video

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Top 10 Soccer Prediction Sites PT 1 - YouTube

football betting strategy, football trading strategy, betfair trading, betfair football trading, alex ong, football betting tips, football betting expert, football betting strategy 2019, football ... In this video, i shared with you best football predictions websites or best betting tips sites, Sites that gives best football predictions.These sites give v... I organized these 5 websites that are free to watch any live soccer game. www.canjeeromedia.comHope you enjoyed this amazing video.THESE ARE THE LINKShttps:/... this video is a guide for sport betting The football predictions and betting tips provided in this video have been carefully researched and analyzed by our professional tipsters. Our betting tips a... these are the top games predictions sites this year,the calculations are mathematically produced from various mathematical calculations.get more insight here... Some very good sites that can assist you in your soccer betting predictions We look at just how you could predict a draw result in a football/soccer match. Predicting a draw is one of the hardest things to do when betting on football... How to improve your wins with Football betting? Today I'm going to tell you about the best football prediction site for the premier league which is FREE to u... http://bit.ly/29ha5Uf CLICK THE LINK TO VISIT FOOTBALL VALUE TIPS OFFICIAL WEBSITEAbout Football Value Tips:Football Value Tips (a.k.a. FootballTipster.c...

top soccer prediction sites in uk

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