Henri Lansbury Helps England to Win Over Brazil

England came from behind to win against the tournament favourites, Brazil. Brazil's goal came from a Ronaldinho esque freekick that curled over the keeper ala Seaman 02. After that it was pretty much Brazilian domination for the rest of the first half until deep into stoppage time England won a penalty thanks to a suicidal handball in the box. Arsenal's Henri Lansbury took to spotkick and scored the equaliser with the last kick of the half. England came out stronger in the second half and were able to at least match Brazil in many departments. Even so it looked likely that Brazil would score next. Their best chance came when Arsenal's Gavin Hoyte kicked Lulinha, who'd been largely disappointing, in the box. Lulinha took the penalty but it was well saved by the England keeper who also saved the rebound.

As the players tired the game went from end to end. England had a few good chances and Brazil too. In the 90th minute England won a corner which was cleared to Lansbury who's cross/shot found it's way to Jordan Spence who finished first time for the winner. There was still time for England's Taiwo to see red but it didn't matter. England had won. I don't think the Brazilians could quite beleive it. The commentator here in Brazil certainly couldn't beleive it!

Overall the two Arsenal lads did well. Lansbury seemed to play in a midfield holding role looking to get forward and put players in when possible. He looked pretty strong too, still running to close down the keeper in the 90th minute. Hoyte will hopefully learn from his mistakes. He looked much like his brother, a right-footed player playing on the left.

Tomorrow it's Spain vs. Argentina. We'll see how one of Arsenal's best prospects, Fran Merida, gets on.

Lehmann Has Competition

2 league games and 2 goals conceded both thanks to goalkeeping blunders of the highest order. Thankfully Arsenal don't only have Almunia this season (who is trying to look like a new signing with the wild paroxide hair) we also have that new Polish lad. Looks pretty good too. I think we'll see Lehmann dropped sooner rather than later even if only for him to buck up his ideas and pay more attention.

Carlos Vela