http://languagecaster.com Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:12:52 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.2 Welcome to all English language learners and teachers to languagecaster.com and its free football podcast. Every week a new soccer show complete with language support for students who wish to improve their English language skills. languagecaster.com no languagecaster.com admin@languagecaster.com admin@languagecaster.com (languagecaster.com) Copyright © by languagecaster 2006-2011 Free football podcast for learners of English brought to you by Damian and Damon. Interviews, match reviews, predictions all with full language support for soccer fans around the world who wish to improve their English language skills. football, soccer, free football podcast, English language, football language, soccer vocabulary, learn English, Learning English football language http://www.languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/site_images/languagecasteritunes.jpg http://languagecaster.com/category/main-report/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-is-back/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-is-back/#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:00:11 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=18884 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-is-back/feed/ 0 Bundesliga,English,Football,languagecaster,listening report,Vocabulary Our German correspondent is back with a look at some of the teams and players doing well as the Bundesliga restarts. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main listening report we  catch up with the Bundesliga with Hans von Dietze our German correspondent. You can listen to the report by clicking on the link below, while vocabulary support appears at the foot of the report. The Bundesliga - teams and players (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/Bundesliga-Logo-2010-300x257.png)After several weeks of Christmas, followed by training camps in warmer climates, the Bundesliga players have returned to the pitch and games have resumed for the second half of the season. So what do we have in store? Firstly, it is crowded at the top of the table. Three teams are separated only by goal difference, with another just a point back, making this the closest title race in years. Of course Champions Dortmund are there, as are Bayern and Schalke, but surprisingly Borussia Moenchengladbach are also mixing it with them, having already claimed the double over Bayern. You might remember that Gladbach had to survive a tense relegation play off last season to survive the drop to the second Bundesliga. And they have Marco Reus to thank. Have you heard of him? He is 22, plays in midfield for Gladbach, is blessed with pace and great vision and is scoring goals regularly. Nicknamed “Rolls Reus” by the press, he will be moving to Dortmund in the summer. Dortmund have also returned in full force, even beating Hamburg 5-1 away last week. Their ‘find of the season’ in 2011- Shinji Kagawa - who is also 22,  is again putting in superb displays and scoring goals, much to the delight of the many Japanese Bundesliga fans. Bayern have made a slowish start, losing to Gladbach but beating Wolfsburg, but will feature strongly, as always. And so will Schalke, who seem to be having a love affair with Raul, whose goal last season was voted goal of the year (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KogZVNRv1o4). Meanwhile in the basement no less than 11 teams are battling to avoid relegation, amongst them such teams as Hamburg, former champions Stuttgart and my team Freiburg. It is shaping up as an exciting season. My pick is Dortmund. What is yours? Auf Wiedersehen und viel Spass. Vocabulary (the) pitch: the field of play, the park (casual), the surface goal difference: the number when goals against a team are taken away from goals scored (Example: goals for = 35, goals against = 30, goal difference = +5) mixing it with (someone): competing well against, trying hard against play off: a special match to decide which team goes up or down a division etc. vision: the ability to 'read' the game, to be able to make a good pass or run find of the season: best signing, the best player a team bought the basement: the bottom of the League, the relegation zone languagecaster.com no 3:02 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-fa-cup/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-fa-cup/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 11:39:34 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=18826 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-fa-cup/feed/ 0 FA Cup,giant killing,wembley,worksheet On this week's main listening report we take a look at the FA Cup: the format, its history and its giant killing. There is a worksheet with this report and you can listen to the report by clicking on the link below, | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main listening report we take a look at the FA Cup: the format, its history and the giant killing (http://languagecaster.com/english-for-football-phrase-week-10-2007-giantkilling-underdog/). There is a worksheet with this report and you can listen to the report by clicking on the link below, while vocabulary support appears at the foot of the report. The FA Cup (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/450px-The_FA_Cup_Trophy-225x300.jpg) The oldest football competition in the world is the English FA Cup, the Football Association Cup, which first started in 1872. The format of the tournament is very simple – it is a knock-out competition which means that the winner of each tie, or game, passes through to the next round while the loser is knocked-out and does not play again until the following season: it is a winner-takes-all format. To add to the excitement there is no form of seeding, which means that games are decided by an open draw and that one team can be drawn to play against any other side in the tournament. In England the competition is open to all clubs affiliated, or belonging to, the FA, which means there are a total of 14 rounds that have to be played and the first of these takes place at the beginning of the season in August. The professional clubs from the top four divisions do not have to play in these rounds with the teams from the top two divisions (The Premier League and the Championship) joining the Third Round in January when 64 teams remain in the tournament. Often at this stage of the competition a few non-league sides are still in the cup – these are teams from outside the Football League – and they attract a lot of attention as they might be drawn against a higher-ranked side and cause an upset or surprise by beating this team: this kind of victory is known as giant killing. Some of the most famous acts of giant killing have included Fourth Division Wrexham defeating the League Champions Arsenal in 1992 and non-league side Sutton beating top-flight team Coventry in 1989. In recent times however the top sides have fared better and it is unusual to see a team from outside the Premier League in the final at Wembley Stadium (http://languagecaster.com/learners-podcast-25-wembley/). The final usually takes place in May and is a big media event in England – the traditional end-of-season game. In England the most successful team in FA Cup history is Manchester United – they have won the cup on eleven occasions, while the second most successful club is Arsenal with ten wins. A total of 42 teams have won the trophy though some of those clubs are now no longer in existence, including Wanderers who were the first winners of the trophy. Other countries have their own version of the FA Cup – the Emperor’s Cup in Japan and the Copa del Rey in Spain but the most famous of all of these is still the FA Cup. Vocabulary format: The way that the competition is organised tie: A game, a match seeding: This prevents teams from meeting each other in the competition at an early stage can be drawn to play: The games are chosen randomly the team names are taken (drawn) out of a bag affiliated: Belonging to, forming part of non-league sides: Teams from outside the top four professional divisions in England top-flight : The top division (now the Premiership) have fared better: Have done better no longer in existence: The teams have disappeared languagecaster.com no 3:05 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-tournament/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-tournament/#comments Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:39:42 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=18732 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-the-2012-africa-cup-of-nations-tournament/feed/ 0 Gabon and Equatorial Guinea,On this week's main listening report we preview the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Tournament On this week's main listening report we preview the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Tournament being co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main listening report we preview the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Tournament be... languagecaster.com no 4:09 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-english-football-league-cup/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-english-football-league-cup/#comments Sat, 14 Jan 2012 01:07:14 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=18631 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-english-football-league-cup/feed/ 0 Carling Cup,England,history,languagecaster,League Cup,listening,Liverpool,Main Report,shocks This week's languagecaster main listening report spotlights the Football League Cup in England - it's format, history, some statistics, and cracking matches. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's languagecaster main listening report we discuss the Football League Cup in ... languagecaster.com no 4:48 http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-2-july-december/ http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-2-july-december/#comments Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:39:36 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=18017 http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-2-july-december/feed/ 1 balotelli,Barcelona,Copa America,Football review,john terry,Liverpool,luis suarez,Manchester City,Manchester Utd,mancini,racism,Real Madrid On this week's main listening report we look back at some of the big stories from the football world in 2011. This is part two which will focus on July to December. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main listening report we look back at some of the big stories from the football world in 2011. Part one will feature January to June (http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-1-january-june/) while part two will focus on July to December. This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. July-August Two major international tournaments took place in July: the Women's World Cup from Germany and the Copa America from Argentina. The big surprise package in the women's World Cup was the Japanese team, nicknamed Nadeshiko, who managed to defeat the pre-tournament favourites the USA - though they did need penalties to do so. This was the first title for the Japanese who stunned Germany and Sweden in the knockout stages to claim their berth in the final before dedicating their title to those who lost their lives in the March earthquake (http://abcnews.go.com/International/japan-world-cup-soccer-victory-helps-country-earthquake/story?id=14093457). (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/Final-copa-america-uruguay-king-of-South-America.jpg) July also saw Uruguay winning their record-breaking 15th Copa America title after thrashing Paraguay 3-0 in the final at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. La Celeste, or the Sky Blues, had the player of the tournament in Luis Suarez, they did not lose a match and they also knocked-out hosts and favourites Argentina proving that their third place in the 2010 World Cup was no fluke at all. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/Real-Madrid-manager-Jos-007-300x180.jpg) August saw the start of the European football season although in Spain (http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-la-liga-2011-12/) this did not begin until the end of the month thanks to a strike called by the players' union (http://languagecaster.com/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-la-liga-strike-is-over-mourinho-and-nasri/) over insurance issues. By then, the first clasico of the season had taken place with the Spanish Super Cup and the animosity between the two sides re-surfaced when Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho appeared to poke a Barcelona staff member in the eye (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/la-liga/8809050/Jose-Mourinho-handed-two-match-ban-for-Super-Cup-eye-poke.html). This would not be the last time that Barcelona got under the skin of the Portuguese manager of Madrid. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Wayne-Rooney-and-Ashley-Y-007-300x180.jpg)The final weekend of August also saw two incredible results from the Premier League. First up was a statement of intent from Manchester City in their 5-1 hammering of Tottenham at White Hart Lane while a couple of hours later Manchester United thrashed Arsenal 8-2 - a slaughter of the innocents (http://languagecaster.com/football-headlines-rooney-leads-slaughter-of-the-innocents/) as one newspaper called it. Good news for the two north London sides (http://languagecaster.com/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-manchester-vs-londo/) was that they did not have to play again for two weeks thanks to the international break. September-October (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/Juan-Mata-007-300x180.jpg) The European Championship qualifying rounds (http://languagecaster.com/main-report-preview-of-the-2012-european-championship-qualifiers/) reached their decisive moments in September and October with more than 20 nations still in with a chance of progressing to the finals next summer in Poland and the Ukraine. Current World champions Spain easily qualified along with pre-tournament favourites Germany, as well as the Dutch and the Italians, while England, languagecaster.com no 8:18 http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-1-january-june/ http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-1-january-june/#comments Wed, 28 Dec 2011 20:59:58 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=17872 http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-1-january-june/feed/ 0 AC Milan,Ajax,Arsenal,asia cup,Australia,Barcelona,Birmingham,Capello,Carling Cup,Champions League,dortmund,english langusge podcast On this week's main listening report we look back at some of the big stories from the football world in 2011. Part one will feature January to June while part two will focus on July to December. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main listening report we look back at some of the big stories from the football world in 2011. Part one will feature January to June while part two will focus on July to December (http://languagecaster.com/football-review-of-2011-part-2-july-december). This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. January-February January was a fairly quiet month for football in Europe with most European leagues on a winter break and England suffering from heavy snow that caused havoc with the fixtures. However, the sun was shining in Qatar where the15th Asia Cup (http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-the-asia-cup/) was taking place with Japan winning their 4th continental title by defeating Australia 1-0 in extra time (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/jan/29/japan-fourth-asian-cup-australia). The Japanese side, under Italian coach Zaccheroni, showed impressive spirit throughout and were worthy winners though a special mention should also be made for outsiders Jordan who qualified for the knock-out stages by drawing with Japan and beating Saudi Arabia. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/51283414_gattuso_jordan_460x260getty.jpg)Two big stories dominated English football at the start of the year: first, two TV pundits in the UK were fired for making sexist comments (http://languagecaster.com/week-25-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-3/) about a female referee's assistant, while the battle for the Olympic Stadium (http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-west-ham-tottenham-and-the-olympics/) raged onwith West Ham finally winning the decision over Tottenham to move into the stadium in East London. Tottenham were faring better in the Champions League where they eliminated seven-time winners AC Milan in a tempestuous match that saw Milan captain Gattuso attack Spurs coach Joe Jordan (http://languagecaster.com/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-tottenham-gattuso-and-barcelona/ ). February saw the retirement of one of the greatest strikers of this generation, O Fenômeno, Ronaldo. He finished his career in Brazil with Corinthians but it was his time in Europe that really made his name. He first came to prominence in Holland with PSV Eindhoven but moved to another level with Barcelona in Spain before really taking off in Italy with Inter Milan. Unfortunately his career was blighted by injuries but he sealed an amazing comeback with the national side in the 2002 World Cup when he scored the winning goals in the final to give him an amazing record-breaking 15 goalhaul in overall World Cups. March-April March and April are known as the business end of the season, or what Sir Alex Ferguson terms squeaky-bum time (http://languagecaster.com/squeaky-bum-time/) as teams battle to win the title, progress in the cups and avoid relegation. The first domestic trophy of the season in England was decided in early March when lowly Birmingham City caused a huge upset at Wembley to defeat Arsenal 2-1 (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/feb/27/arsenal-birmingham-city-carling-cup-final)to win the Carling Cup - their first silverware since 1963. Ironically both sides then suffered dips in form with Birmingham ending up relegated to the Championship while Arsenal went out of the Champions League to Barcelona, lost to Man Utd in the FA Cup and then fell away in the title race - a bad March for the Gunners. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/232420-old-firm-mayhem-34-people-arrested-at-celtic-and-rangers-match-410x230-300x168.jpg)North of the border in Scotland the traditional Celtic-Rangers dominance continued but this year it seemed to have taken on a new ferocity. languagecaster.com no 6:47 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-christmas-and-football-traditions/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-christmas-and-football-traditions/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:11 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=17801 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-christmas-and-football-traditions/feed/ 1 Boxing Day,Britain,Christmas,English,folk football,Football,languagecaster.com,no mans land,No-man-land,truce As Christmas approaches, on this week's main listening report, we take a look at football at Christmas through the years: folk football and rioting, a football game in the middle of war, and Boxing Day. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) As Christmas approaches, on this week's main listening report, we take a look at football at Christmas through the years: folk football and rioting, a football game in the middle of war, and Boxing Day. This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/225px-Mobfooty.jpg)This weekend will see Christmas celebrated around the world. It is of course a christian tradition, but many non-christians enjoy the holiday. There are many traditions associated with the celebration - Christmas trees, lights, the giving of presents, and so on, but what about association football? Well, football also has its Christmas traditions and stories. Folk Football and Rioting Before it became the game we recognize today, football was a very different and more violent pastime known as folk football (http://languagecaster.com/video-worksheet-folk-football/), played by large groups of men battling each other to move a ball across a large space of ground, often half the village men  would play the other half, or married men fought against unmarried. It was played on holidays such as Easter and Christmas because this was a traditional time for celebration, drinking, eating to excess and letting down your hair, and because the men were not working for several days in a row. This tradition was threatened in 1644 when the Puritan ruler Cromwell banned the celebration of Christmas and the playing of football. This ended up with violent riots in many places as people took their football into the streets and fought with magistrates. The Christmas Football Game in No-Mans-Land During Christmas in 1914 and 1915 as World War I raged across western Europe, there were many unofficial truces at Christmas, where soldiers from both sides stopped fighting and even, in one instance, played an impromptu game of football. Here is how one British soldier described it: “Tommy and Fritz kicked about a real football supplied by a Scot. This developed into a regulation football match with caps casually laid out as goals. The frozen ground was no great matter. The game ended 3-2 for Fritz." The idea that ordinary soldiers stopped fighting and joined together to play football is a powerful image for how the game can bring people with different cultures together - even if they are in the middle of a war. A Boxing Day Feast of Football The day after Christmas, the 26th of December, is known as Boxing Day in the UK. It has long been a public holiday and a day for sport and particularly, football. There is always a full round of football just after Christmas, and while it used to always be on the 26th, recently some games are played on the 27th. Whenever they are played, the Christmas season and Boxing Day has long been connected with football. The Christmas holidays also mark the start of two weeks of games, where as many as five matches may be played. While most European leagues take a break, this is when the English leagues enter their busiest period. So, in Britain, riots, peace and goodwill, and a packed schedule - all traditions associated with football at Christmas! Vocabulary pastime: hobby, activity let down your hair: relax, be uninhibited, forget your problems and enjoy yourself riots: violent protests, mass fights magistrates: police, people who administer the law impromptu: unplanned, informal Tommy: a nickname for British solldiers Fritz: a nickname for German soldiers no great matter: not a problem, not important a full round of football: a week when all teams in the league play languagecaster.com no 3:54 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-top-four-foreign-players-in-the-premier-league-era/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-top-four-foreign-players-in-the-premier-league-era/#comments Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:36:36 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=17665 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-top-four-foreign-players-in-the-premier-league-era/feed/ 0 In this week's main listening report, we ask who has been the best ever overseas player in the Premier League? | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In this week's main listening report, we feature four of the best ever foreign imports to have played in the Premier League. Who do you think has been the best overseas player in the Premier League? This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Eric Cantona (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/ericcantona-1-300x200.jpg) When Leeds United sold Eric Cantona to rivals Manchester United in 1992 few could have predicted the impact that the mercurial Frenchman would have on Manchester United over the next five years. He helped United to their first title since 1967 and then won another three with the Red Devils, along with 2 FA Cups, while he was also Player of the Year on two occasions. Cantona was never far from controversy but his manager, team mates and fans were all sure that he was worth it. Cantona played 185 games for United scoring 85 goals including the winner of the 1997 FA Cup final. Thierry Henry (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/henryarsenal-300x200.jpg) Now he (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/16118791.stm)arrived at Highbury in 1999 hoping to re-build his reputation after a torrid time in Italy with Juventus. He left 8 years later having become the club's highest ever scorer with a remarkable 226 goals in 370 appearances. The 1998 World Cup winner also won two Player of the Year awards, two league titles, three FA Cup wins and was top scorer in the Premier League on four occasions. A true Arsenal legend. Peter Schmeichel (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/peter-schmeichel_1407911c-188x117.jpg) Schmeichel arrived in England in 1991 for what his manager later called a 'bargain' fee of £500.000 and the Danish international - he won the European Championship in 1992 - went on to play more than 290 times for Manchester United. He won five league titles, two FA Cups, a League Cup and in 1999 a Champions League final. Now Schmeichel was a strong character who dominated his penalty area and organised his defence; he was also one of the best an shot-stoppers around. Gianfranco Zola (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/article-0-011DFEC0000004B0-197_468x620-226x300.jpg) Zola joined Ruud Gullit's Chelsea from Italian side Parma in 1995 and helped to transform the London side into serious title contenders in England. Zola played the game in such a way that fans everywhere loved him, particularly the way that he could break down defences with a pass or a dribble. Zola won the FA Cup twice with the Blues, the League Cup once and the Cup Winners Cup in 1998 when Zola scored the winning goal. Zola made 312 appearances for Chelsea and scored 80 goals.   Vocabulary mercurial: magical the Red Devils: The nickname of Manchester United never far from controversy: a temperamental character a torrid time: A difficult time legend: A very famous player, one loved by many fans title contenders: Teams that have a strong chance of wining the title languagecaster.com no 3:01 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-the-club-world-cup/ http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-the-club-world-cup/#comments Sat, 10 Dec 2011 02:26:05 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=17494 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-the-club-world-cup/feed/ 0 Al Sadd,Barcelona,club world cup,Englsih,Esperance,FIFA,Football,Kashiwa,languagecaster,listening,Monterrey,Santos It's Club World Cup time - who is in and who will win? Check out the latest listening report from languagecaster | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) It's FIFA's showcase for club football this week - The Club World Cup. On this report, we take a look at the team in the competition and who will face who and which teams should get though each round.  There is a report with a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Report (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/ClubWorldCupBadges.tiff)It is time for the Club World Cup, the competition that pits together the champions from the six football confederations - that's from Europe, South America, Central and North America, Asia, Africa and Oceania – And it's back in Japan after a two year break when the tournament took place in the United Arab Emirates. The Club world Cup has had many guises and several host countries in its history. Before 2000 it was known as the Intercontinental Cup and played between the Copa Libertadores Cup and European Cup winners over two legs home and away. In 2000 it became the FIFA Club World Championship and was held in Brazil. 2004, and it was back to the Intercontinental Cup but played in Japan. 2005 saw a new name, the Club World Championship, before 2006 saw it settle on the name and format we have now – the Club World Cup. So, this year which teams will try to be crowned the World’s best side? Well, Barcelona will be flying to Tokyo, after the El Clásico in La Liga, to represent Europe. The Champions League winners are also the Spanish Champions and they are sure to be a huge draw for fans as they have been the stand out team in Europe over the past few years. Pep Guadiola's side are slightly off the pace this season in Spain, six points behind Real Madrid, but they are through to the knockout stages of the Champions League with five wins and a draw out of six. They will be hoping to add to their Club World Cup title of 2009. In that competition they came up against a tough Estudiantes side and were pushed all the way. Only a last minute goal in normal time saved them, and a goal by Messi in the 110th minute sealed the win. The champions from Europe and South America automatically start in the semi finals, so they have a big advantage. From South America and Brazil will be Santos, from Sao Paolo. They have a decent record in international club competitions, but that success was all in the 1960s when they won the Intercontinental Cup twice in 62 and 63 and the short-lived Intercontinental Supercup in 1968 ,where they beat Inter of Italy. In their first title in 1962 Santos beat Benfica over two legs 8-4 with Pele scoring five goals for his side. They come to this year's competition as Copa Libertadores winners, but this season they have finished mid-table in Brazil's top league. However, it is the end of the season for them and traditionally South American sides take this competition very seriously. They will be the biggest threat to Barcelona. Flying the flag from Asia will be Al Sadd from Qatar who were controversial (http://languagecaster.com/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-apoel-al-badd-and-a-big-away-win/) in their Asian Champions League win. They beat Jeonbuk from Korea on penalties in that final. They will face African champions Esperance in the quarter final - and the winners of this match will go on to face Barcelona in the semis. Esperance from Tunisia have had a fine season - doing a league and cup double at home and of course being the  CAF champions. They have a young squad and if they don't get upset by Al Sadd's gamesmanship, they should beat the side from Qatar. In the other quarter final, Kashiwa, from Chiba, Japan, and the CONCACAF Champions League Winners Monterrey meet to decide which team plays Santos in the other semi final. Kashiwa, languagecaster.com no 4:54 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-brazilian-league-2011-everything-to-play-for-on-the-final-day/ http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-brazilian-league-2011-everything-to-play-for-on-the-final-day/#comments Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:15:58 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=17391 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-brazilian-league-2011-everything-to-play-for-on-the-final-day/feed/ 0 In this week's main listening report, we feature the final game of the 2011 Brazilian season. Nothing has been decided with the title, Libertadores places and relegation all going down to the wire. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In this week's main listening report, we feature the final game of the 2011 Brazilian season. Nothing has been decided with the title, Libertadores places and relegation all going down to the wire. This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Background (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/COR_HR_JPEG.02713315-300x226.jpg)This weekend sees the final round of the 2011 Brazilian championship taking place and the Brazilian federation have decided that the best way to avoid any suspicion of teams 'throwing games' is to schedule a host of derby matches. Rivalry among teams from the same city or area in Brazil is huge so in Rio de Janeiro Flamengo take on Vasco and Botafogo play last year's champions Fluminense. In São Paulo, Corinthians host Palmeiras and Santos are at home to São Paulo, while Internacional take on Grêmio in the Porto Alegre derby and América (MG) face Belo Horizonte rivals Atletico MG. Nothing has been decided yet with the title, final Libertadores places and relegation spots; they're all going down to the wire. The Title Only two teams can still win the title on the final day: Corinthians from São Paulo and Vasco da Gama from Rio de Janeiro. Corinthians are two points clear and crucially have two more victories than their rivals which means that if the two teams are tied on points then Corinthians will take the title. They take on their São Paulo rivals Palmeiras this Sunday knowing that a draw will be enough to claim their first title since 2005 - their fifth overall. Vasco are taking on their arch-rivals Flamengo knowing that only a win and a defeat for Corinthians will be enough to secure their own fifth Brazilian Championship. Can Vasco squeeze one more performance out of their aging side - a side that has also won the Brazilian Cup and is still in the South American Cup semi-final? It has already been a great year for the Rio club but if they manage to win their remaining three games (one in the league, one continental semi-final second leg and a possible final) then it could be an historic one and for that alone I am going to go for them Vasco to snatch the title away from Corinthians. Libertadores Qualification Much like their English counterparts there is a top four battle in Brazil to determine who will qualify to play in next season's Libertadores competition. However, thanks to Vasco's Cup win and Santos being the reigning Libertadores champions the team that finishes in fifth and sixth spots will also make it to the continent's biggest club tournament. Currently, four teams are fighting for the remaining three spots: Flamengo are in 4th on 60 points, that's three ahead of surprise package Coritiba, Internacional and Figueirense. Coritiba have been the form team in November and I tip them to sneak into the top 5 along with Internacional and Flamengo. Relegation At the bottom, Avaí have already been relegated while América and Paranense look odds-on to join them. However, the big surprise of the year is the fact that one of the big teams in Brazil, Gremio, face a real battle to stay up. Their draw with Ceará in the last game ensured that their fate remained in their own hands but they will have to secure a win against their city rivals Internacional to be sure of playing in the top flight next season. Internacional of course are not only playing for Copa Libertadores qualification but would love the opportunity to send down their rivals. The tension of the final day will be immense with a title to be won, relegation to be avoided and Libertadores places to be secured in addition to a day of super derbies. It promises to be a cracker. Vocabulary languagecaster.com no 3:51 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-del-piero/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-del-piero/#comments Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:22:31 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=17313 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-del-piero/feed/ 0 Del Piero,English,english language skills,Football,Juventus,languagecaster In this week's main listening report, we salute a remarkable achievement and a fantastic player as Del Piero appoaches 700 professional games. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In this week's main listening report, we salute a remarkable achievement and a fantastic player as Del Piero appoaches 700 professional games. This report has a transcript below, as well as explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Background (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/delpiero-208x300.jpg)This weekend, if he plays for Juventus against Lazio, Del Piero will have pulled on a football shirt in a professional game for the 700th time, and if he scores, he may well remove his shirt in triumph as he celebrates what would be his 284th goal for Juve, a team he has played at all his career except for 14 games for Padova at the start of 20 years of football. In the modern game, it is incredibly rare for a player to spend so much time at one club, Piero has played at The Old Lady since 1993. He is their captain and talisman, replacing Roberto Baggio in the heart of the attack, and top scorer and although he has spent most of his time coming off the bench this season and has not been given a new contract by Juventus, he is the fans' favourite. Highs It didn't take long for Del Piero to taste success - he was part of the Championship winning Juventus side in 1994, and four more were to follow. In 1996, he picked up a Champions League winners medal and in 2006 a World Cup medal - and he showed his worth in that competition capping a brilliant counter with a clinical goal against Germany in the Semis. He is on the FIFA 100 greatest living footballers list, compiled by Pele, and has also won the Golden Foot in 2007, an award that recognises players who have excelled athletically and as personalities in their team. Add to these, top scorer in the Champions League in 1998, two Player of the Year in Italy awards, and other assorted medals and it is clear that Del Piero is a special player. Undoubtedly talented, but also loyal - Del Piero vowed to stay with Juve when they were relegated to the second tier of football after the Calciopoli scandal. Style One word really encapsulates Del Piero, versatility. He is comfortable as an out-and-out striker, a playmaker, just behind one or two forwards, or a second striker linking play from the midfield to attack. But he is probably best known for his role in the triangle with Zidane and Piero supplying Inzaghi under main15.1112coach Marcello Lippi in 2001. Lows In the 1998-99 season, he picked up a serious knee injury playing in a match against Udinese. He was out for six months and Juve after a bright start finished in sixth place in Serie A. We've already mentioned the Calciopoli scandal, where Juventus were found guilty of trying to fix matches and were relegated, this was an obvious low, especially as it came after the glory of a World cup win in 2006. And while not exactly lows, maybe when he hangs up his boots he will regret missing out on  a Champions League title when Juve lost to Bourssia Dortmund in 1997, and also when Italy failed to beat France in the European Championship Finals in 2000. 2011 Juve are currently top of Serie A with their inspirational captain and a new ground to inspire their fans. Wouldn't it be fitting for Juve to win the title in their loyal servant Del Piero's last season. Vocabulary The Old lady: Juventus football club's nickname (in English) talisman: lucky charm, something that brings good fortune capping: ending, finishing counter: a break away attack; an attack after the opponents move has broken down - usually quick with one or two touch passes out-an-out: complete; 100% playmaker: a player that controls the tempo of a game; someone who starts most attacks hang up (his) boots: retire; stop playing football languagecaster.com no 4:04 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-four-sepp-blatter-controversies/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-four-sepp-blatter-controversies/#comments Sat, 19 Nov 2011 11:06:38 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=17152 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-four-sepp-blatter-controversies/feed/ 0 Blatter,corruption,ferdinand,FIFA,football language,gay,qatar,race,racis,technology,Women's football,World Cup In a week when FIFA president Sepp Blatter was embroiled in yet another scandal: this time about race, we report on four of the many controversies that FIFA's leader has been involved in. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In a week when FIFA president Sepp Blatter was embroiled in yet another scandal: this time a... languagecaster.com no 3:30 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-euro-2012-play-offs/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-euro-2012-play-offs/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2011 10:58:37 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=17075 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-euro-2012-play-offs/feed/ 0 bosnia,cristiano,croatia,Euro 2012,football cliche,football language,ireland,Modric,play off,poland,Portugal,Ronaldo With 12 team already qualified for next summer's European Championships in Poland/Ukraine the remaining four spots will be filled on Tuesday after the two-legged games between the best runners-up in the qualifying groups. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's report we focus on the four play-off ties that will decide the last four spot... languagecaster.com no 3:40 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bill-shankleys-10-game-rule/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bill-shankleys-10-game-rule/#comments Sun, 06 Nov 2011 01:12:31 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=16997 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bill-shankleys-10-game-rule/feed/ 0 10 year rule,Bill Shankley,Bundesliga,English for football,La liga,languagecaster,Manchester City,Premier League,Real Madrid,ten year rule,Vocabulary Shankley's 10 game rule and how three of the big leagues in Europe stand now - The Premier League, La Liga and the Bundesliga. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/200px-Billshankly1-1.jpg)Bill Shankley, the famous Liverpool boss of the late 50s and early 70s once said not to look at the league table until 10 games had been played because it meant nothing. So this week on languagecaster we take a quick look around three of the big leagues in Europe who have reached the 10 game point and see which teams are in the driving seat, which are pushing to challenge for the top spot and champions League places, and which teams, if any, are slipping into the danger zone. The report has a transcript below and explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. First the Premier league with 10 games gone: Leaders - big spenders Manchester City (28 pts), who seem to be coasting. They've stamped their authority on their league with the impressive 6-1 defeat of rivals Manchester United. Fergie's team, the Red Devils (23 pts) lead the chasing pack, followed by surprise package Newcastle United (22 pts), who are stealthily maintaining a record of no defeats and crept above Chelsea (19 pts), who were stunned by 7th place Arsenal last week 5-3. At the bottom? Blackburn (6 pts), Bolton (6 pts) and Wigan (5 pts) all teams from the North West are struggling and the the Trotters and the Latics are already most people's favorites to go down. Next, La Liga also with 10 games gone: No surprise to see the usual suspects, Real Madrid (25 pts) and Barcelona (24 pts) opening up a lead. Leaders Madrid have an eight point gap between them and 5th place Malaga. While it was great while it lasted it looks like injuries and good luck running out are pulling Lavante back down to earth. valencia look well placed on 21 pts to cement a Champions League spot with other teams around them lacking consistency. At the foot of the table? Well, take your pick - 3 points separate 13th from 20th. But Getafe on 7 points and without a win in 5 games and Real Sociedad on 8 and with no victory in 6 must both be very nervous. Finally, the Bundesliga - 11 games played: Again, no surprise to see giants Bayern Munich (25 pts) with a four point cushion over Shalke. Despite the fact that the German Champions are in fact Dortmund, who lie in third on 20 points, it seems natural order has been restored with the most successful club in Germany topping thee table. But don't rule Dortmund out, especially if Munich have a good Champions League run, they may just take their eye of the ball and let their lead slip. Struggling are Freiburg on 7 points and Augsburg on 8. The team above them, Hamburg, has found some form recently, and if you want to look for someone to join them in the relegation zone, Nurnberg look a likely candidate. So, 10 games in and the leagues are taking shape. But a lot can happen between now and next May. Vocabulary coasting: playing well, winning in a relaxed fashion stamp their authority: be so strong that your rivals are nervous; lead the league by a comfortable margin languagecaster.com no http://languagecaster.com/16938/ http://languagecaster.com/16938/#comments Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:35:34 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16938 http://languagecaster.com/16938/feed/ 0 languagecaster.com takes a look at how teams line up and how formations affect a game.,Why are football formations important? What is the difference between 4-4-2 and 4-3-3? This week Why are football formations important? What is the difference between 4-4-2 and 4-3-3? This week, languagecaster.com takes a look at how teams line up and how formations affect a game. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) Why are football formations important? What is the difference between 4-4-2 and 4-3-3? This week, languagecaster.com takes a look at how teams line up and how formations affect a game. The report has a transcript below and explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/41705404_4_4_2_416-300x216.gif)Back when I was playing football for my school way back in the 1970s things were so much simpler. Before each game the teacher read out the names of the players along with a number that represented a position: Number 1 was the goalkeeper, 2 and 3 were the full backs (left and right), while 5 and 6 were the centre halves - the biggest and toughest school kids usually had the privilege of playing there. Numbers 7 and 11 played out wide; while numbers 8 and 10 were in the midfield, number 10 being a much-coveted shirt as we all knew that the best player in the team wore number 10 - think Pele, Maradona and of course Glenn Hoddle! That left number 9 as the striker, the centre forward, the goal scorer. We never questioned these positions, tactics or the formation that the teacher sent us out to play in - in fact, I am not sure we even knew that this particular formation had a name, though, particularly after the 1966 World Cup win, it has become synonymous with the English game: 4-4-2. Of course, there have been a multitude of tactical formations throughout football's long history. When England played Scotland in the first ever international in 1872 the English played with 1 defender, two midfielders and 7 forwards - 1-2-7, while the Scottish team decided that they would take advantage of the space on the pitch and pass the ball rather than relying on dribbling and force and so they played a more 'reserved' 2-2-6. Fifty or so years later the game had expanded across the globe and this lead to variations in how the game should be played. In England the 3-2-2-3 system (or W-M) was common but in Central Europe and specifically in Hungary a more fluid 3-2-3-2 model was used one that crushed England 6-3 and 7-1 in a set of friendlies during the mid-1950s. In the following decade Italian sides dominated the recently-created European Cup with a defensive system known as catenaccio (literally meaning the door bolt) that played an extra defender behind the back four. This player was known as a sweeper or libero and made it extremely difficult for the opposing side to break them down. Perhaps it was the rigidity and discipline of the catenaccio system that lead to the anarchic and some might say chaotic ideals of Total Football - a theory of football which Dutch coach Rinus Michels suggested came about as 'football makes itself on the pitch'. Players simply moved around the pitch to cover or to attack as the need arose creating a fluid nature to the game. Since then more defensive formations have been used with 4-5-1 fairly prevalent in Europe during the early part of this century - the extra man in midfield became known as the 'holding midfielder' as he tended to sit in front of the back four in order to allow other, more creative, players to attack. 4-2-3-1 is another variation of this system except that it has two holding midfielders - something that France employed in their 1998 World Cup win. What about today? How will this decade be remembered for? Many teams, particularly at international level, turn out in a 4-1-2-2-1 formation but with players being fitter, faster and stronger than before the emphasis is very much on fluidity and flexibility and so often teams may employ a variety of formations during the same game. Maybe that 4-4-2 system was simple after all. Vocabulary the privilege: The honour languagecaster.com no 3:48 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-japanese-j-league-the-run-in/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-japanese-j-league-the-run-in/#comments Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:04:01 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=16861 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-japanese-j-league-the-run-in/feed/ 0 Football,J-League,Kashima,Kashiwa,languagecaster,Nagoya,sendai,soccer,Urawa Main Report: The Japanese J League - who will clinch the title? And will we see Urawa in J2 next season? | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) The European leagues are about a third of the way through their seasons and the Champions League is in the middle of the group stages, but what about elsewhere in the world? This week, languagecaster.com takes a look at what's happening in the J-League in Japan, now in its 18th season.The report has a transcript below and explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/149608hp21-300x186.jpg)This weekend will be the 30th game of the 34 game season, so things are reaching a climax at the top and bottom of the table. Let's start at the foot of the table. Surprisingly, one of the best supported clubs, Urawa Reds is in the relegation zone on 29 points, one less than Kofu. It would be a real shock if Urawa do drop down a league, but it looks as though it could happen. The Reds have the best attendance of any club this year, regularly pulling in crowds of over 32,000 to their great stadium in Saitama, built for football and the 2002 Wold Cup. The glory years of  2005~2007, they did the double in 2006,  could be a memory come December. They'll need to turn things around soon, starting with a game against 4th place Yokohama this weekend. Sitting at the top of the table are Kashiwa, from Chiba prefecture and just north of Tokyo. They have never been crowned J League champions, but do have two titles from the 1970s. Could this be their year? It would be a remarkable turn around because they were relegated two seasons ago. They recently beat Kashima 1-0 away, which laid down a marker, as Kashima are the most successful J league side. Currently they lie in 7th place and must be worrying about their direction as they finished 4th last year after three consecutive titles. Challenging Kashiwa for the title are Nagoya and Osaka, both teams with recent pedigree. Of the two, last year's champions Nagoya look the most likely to overhaul the Chiba club. But a key game should be when Nagoya meet Osaka at home on the 11th of November. And before we leave the J League, a mention for Sendai, a team from a prefecture devastated by the earthquake and tsunami in March this year. They are in 5th place with 5 wins from 5. Could they do it? Unlikely, but most neutrals would love to see them lift the championship trophy on December the 3rd. Vocabulary the foot of the table: at the bottom, last pulling in: attracting, getting glory years: a tie of success turn things around: change form, start winning be relegated: go down, drop to a lower division or level lay down a marker: have a good result that warns your rivals that you are strong lie in: be in pedigree: quality overhaul: catch, over take languagecaster.com no 2:33 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-versus-manchester-united-in-numbers/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-versus-manchester-united-in-numbers/#comments Thu, 13 Oct 2011 23:17:13 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16777 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-versus-manchester-united-in-numbers/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-2014-south-american-world-cup-qualifiers/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-2014-south-american-world-cup-qualifiers/#comments Fri, 07 Oct 2011 23:27:20 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16674 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-2014-south-american-world-cup-qualifiers/feed/ 1 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bayern-munich-bundesliga-powerhouse/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bayern-munich-bundesliga-powerhouse/#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:41:23 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=16581 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-bayern-munich-bundesliga-powerhouse/feed/ 0 Bayern Munich,Bundesliga,English,Football,Hans,languagecaster,Main Report,Vocabulary On this week's main report, Hans, our German correspondent spotlights Bayern Munich, a team that has had a fantastic start to the season in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) On this week's main report, Hans, our German correspondent spotlights Bayern Munich, a team that has had a fantastic start to the season in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. This report has a transcript below and explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. There is also a worksheet with answers. (../wp-content/uploads/2011/09/220px-Bayern_Munchen.png)Most people associate the Bundesliga with Bayern Muenchen. There are other big teams, including champions Dortmund, Hamburg and Schalke, but it is the team from the southern state of Bavaria that is best known. This is probably because Bayern have been the most successful team, winning every possible trophy in their long history, including the European Cup, or Champions league four times and 22 Bundesliga titles. So naturally every season eyes turn to the south to see how they will perform, and in 2011/2012 the word that describes their current form is “unbelievable”. Bayern have been simply unstoppable in recent weeks. Since their only loss in the first round, they have gone undefeated in 6 games, scoring 21 goals whilst not conceding a single goal, and added to this they have won both their champions league games without conceding. So here are my three top reasons for this incredible start. 1. Manuel Neuer. Germany’s No. 1 keeper came from Schalke in the summer. He has added confidence to their defence, is very good at distributing the ball and his long precise kicking sets up the midfielders for fast attacks. 2. Frank Ribery. He is slowly returning to the Ribery of old, enjoying his football and tormenting defences with his attacking play. 3. Strikers. In ‘Super’ Mario Gomez and Thomas Mueller Bayern have the Bundesligas best strikers, both in form and being provided with plenty of chances. They work well together, set each other up and share the glory. Will this be the year for Bayern? The Champions League Final will be played at the Allianz Arena, their home ground, and in the form they are currently in, it will take a very good team to stop them. Enjoy the Bundesliga and see you again soon. Auf Wiedersehen. Vocabulary trophy: cup eyes turn to: the media is interested in, people take notice of unstoppable: unbeatable, impossible to defeat concede: to give a goal away, to allow a goal to be scored against (the team) distribute: pass, spread ~player of old: previous; unusually used to say a player has returned to their previous best in form: playing well set (someone) up: provide (someone) with a chance, give (someone) an opportunity to languagecaster.com no 3:18 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-la-liga-2011-12/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-la-liga-2011-12/#comments Thu, 22 Sep 2011 23:50:06 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16494 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-la-liga-2011-12/feed/ 0 Barcelona,Boqueron,Champions League,del nido,football language,La liga,malaga,messi,mourinho,pep,relegation,Ronaldo This week's main report takes a look at this season's Spanish League: La Liga 2011-12. This report has a transcript and explanations of key vocabulary | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) This week's main report takes a look at this season's Spanish League: La Liga 2011-12. This ... languagecaster.com no 5:37 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-footballs-best-ever-xi-tottenham-1961/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-footballs-best-ever-xi-tottenham-1961/#comments Sat, 17 Sep 2011 22:44:58 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16431 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-footballs-best-ever-xi-tottenham-1961/feed/ 0 1961,blanchflower,football language,glory game,Hotspur,learning english,spurs,the double,Tottenham,worksheet Who is the greatest player to have played for your favourite team? What was your greatest moment as a fan? Who has been your favourite manager? These and other similar questions are often asked by football supporters all over the world and so on this w... | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) Who is the greatest player to have played for your favourite team? What was your greatest mo... languagecaster.com no 3:49 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-champions-league-group-stages/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-champions-league-group-stages/#comments Wed, 07 Sep 2011 23:01:15 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=16263 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-the-champions-league-group-stages/feed/ 0 AC Milan,Arsenal,Barcelona,Bayern Munich,Champions League,dark horse,group of death,group stage,Man City,Manchester Utd,Real Madrid It's Champions League Group Stage time! Which one is the group of death? Which teams are the dark horses? And which big teams have the easiest rides? We've got it all at languagecaster.com | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/180px-UEFA_Champions_League_logo_2.svg_.png)It's Champions League group stage time - from now until the beginning of December Europe's elite clubs will be going up against each other trying to reach the knockout stages and of course the money that playing in the later stages brings.  The group stages are often criticized for being boring, with few upsets and the big teams going through as a formality. Looking at last year's Champions League group stages, this seems to be true to a certain extent - with all the fancied sides going through. Will it be the same this year - probably - but let's take a look at the groups anyway. Which one is the group of death? Which team is a dark horse? And which big teams have the easiest rides? There's vocabulary support at the bottom of the page, and words highlighted in blue and red have explanations too! The Group(s) of Death Most pundits are picking group A as the toughest. German giants, Bayern Munich, Italian outfit, Napoli, Spanish side Villarreal and the richest club in the world, English side Manchester City, all must fancy their chances of getting one of the two top spots. Surely, City's squad of superstars and their collective European experience can help overcome the club's relative inexperience at this level. On paper it's City and Bayern, but look for Napoli to put up a fight. Prediction - Manchester City top, Bayern Munich second Group A is tough, but group F should also be a challenge for Arsenal, Dortmund, Olympiakos and Marseilles. Arsenal, of course, are going through a mini-crisis of sorts, losing some of their key players Cesc Fabregas and Nasri to Champions League rivals Barcelona and Manchester City respectively. They'll be hoping their new signings will bed in quickly. If they don't they could end up in a scrap for the second spot. Bundesliga Champions, Dortmund, will hope they can top this group, while Olympiakos and Marseilles are no pushovers. Prediction - Dortmund top, Arsenal second What about dark horses? Well, in group B, little Lille, last year's Ligue 1 winners, could easily find themselves through to the knockout stages, and then anything is possible. Especially if they keep hold of Hazard, their Belgian striker, in the January transfer window. You would expect Inter to top the group but CSKA Moscow might find it difficult to join them, and Trabzonspor - a late replacement for disqualified Fernebache, may just enjoy the experience. Predictions - Inter top, Lille second Another club with a decent chance of upsetting the odds is Ajax in group D. Real Madrid have this group sewn up, although they have struggled against Lyon before, but with Dynamo Zagreb out of it, Ajax will hope to sneak past Lyon and make it to the last 16. Predictions - Real Madrid top, Lyon second Easy groups When we talk about easy groups, we mean easy for the 'big' team. These groups can also be very open, with three teams vying for the second spot. The easiest group seems to be Group C, with Manchester United, Swiss team, Basel, Benfica and Otelul Galati from Romania. United will breeze through this group with Basel and Benfica fighting it out for the scraps. Prediction - Top, Man United, and second, Benfica The other English team finds itself in a pretty easy group, too. Chelsea, in Group E,  face Bayer Leverkusen, Valencia and Genk. This shouldn't pose too much of a problem for the Blues. Prediction - Chelsea top, Valencia second What about the other groups, G and H. Porto and Shaktar Donesk should come out top and knock out Zenit and APOEL in group G, and the two European giants, Barcelona and AC Milan will overshadow BATE and Viktoria Plzen in group H. Vocabulary upset: a surprise result, languagecaster.com no 3:48 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-tottenhams-2011-12-season/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-tottenhams-2011-12-season/#comments Sun, 28 Aug 2011 13:48:22 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=16009 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-tottenhams-2011-12-season/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-liverpools-2011-12-season/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-liverpools-2011-12-season/#comments Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:23:05 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=16040 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-liverpools-2011-12-season/feed/ 0 Anfield,Dalglish,Liverpool,Preview,The Reds The Premier League has just kicked off and Damon and Damian take a look at their respective team's chances. First, Damon, looking ahead to his team's Liverpool's 2011-12 season. The Premier League has just kicked off and so Damon and Damian take a look at their respective team's chances. Here is Damon looking ahead to his team's Liverpool's 2011-12 season. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) and links (in red) also have meanings explained. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/175px-Liverpool_FC.svg_.png)For Liverpool last season it was a season of two halves - one dreadful and the other very promising. Despite that finish, the Reds still ended up in 6th place with no silverware. Will this season be different? I'm not so sure. But first the pluses: Liverpool have new owners and stability - that must be a good thing. They have a new manager, Kenny Dalglish, a fans' favorite. The ex-player and manager was effective in turning around last season and has brought an exciting style of football back to Anfield. There have been new additions to the squad on top of the two big buys last season Suarez and Carrol, the Reds have added some width in the form of left-sided Downing, some experience and passing in the centre of the park with Adams, a youthful midfielder, Henderson, and a quality left back with Enrique. This on top of the reserve team players coming through the ranks. So, the club has no debts, sensible owners, a strengthened squad, and optimism with a new manager. What about the downside? Well, the squad has been improved, but it also still bloated with a surfeit of midfielders on high wages, and a lack of depth in the centre of midfield - an aging Carragher, an injury-prone Agger,  and a reliable but not great Skrtel the main three. The Reds also face stiff competition from Tottenham and Arsenal for the 4th spot in the Premier League - I think it's a given that Chelsea, Man United and big spenders Man City are the 'Big Three'. There is also the worry that without a decision on a new Stadium or an expansion for Anfield, Liverpool will fall further back in the revenue table and drop out of contention permanently - money talks in the Premier League. With their first choice squad, Liverpool will give any team a game, but they still lack top quality in all the back up positions. So, predictions. Champions? No way Top four? Very unlikely - 5th Silverware? None Other? The club will decide to build a new 60,000-seater stadium in Stanley park and Gerrard will be gone before next season. Vocabulary to turn around: to stop bad performances and start playing well, to reverse poor form to add width: to have a wide player, a winger, to be able to play from wide on the pitch to come through the ranks: to progress through the youth and reserve teams, to develop and get experience in the youth team and make it to the senior team bloated: too fat - in this context, too big injury prone: easily injured stiff competition: difficult opponents, serious rivals languagecaster.com no 2:39 http://languagecaster.com/languagecaster-review-of-the-2011-summer-football/ http://languagecaster.com/languagecaster-review-of-the-2011-summer-football/#comments Thu, 11 Aug 2011 11:49:16 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15951 http://languagecaster.com/languagecaster-review-of-the-2011-summer-football/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/listening-worksheet-history-of-the-copa-america/ http://languagecaster.com/listening-worksheet-history-of-the-copa-america/#comments Fri, 15 Jul 2011 18:42:13 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15739 http://languagecaster.com/listening-worksheet-history-of-the-copa-america/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-and-tottenhams-seasons-two-fans-perspectives/ http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-and-tottenhams-seasons-two-fans-perspectives/#comments Sat, 28 May 2011 08:20:04 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=15405 http://languagecaster.com/main-report-liverpool-and-tottenhams-seasons-two-fans-perspectives/feed/ 0 bale,damian,Damon,Football,Kenny Dalglish,languagecaster,Liverpool,Premier League,Redknapp,Roy Hodgson,season,The Bad Damon and Damian review Liverpool's and Tottenham's seasons. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In our last main report of the 2010-11 season, Damon and Damian review the footballing year ... languagecaster.com no 6:02 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-la-liga-2011/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-la-liga-2011/#comments Wed, 25 May 2011 09:05:20 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15471 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-la-liga-2011/feed/ 0 Barcelona,Depor,La liga,malaga,manita,messi,Real Madrid,Ronaldo,valencia,Villareal The 2011 Spanish League season has ended and on this week's main report we take a look back at some of the highs and lows of the La Liga. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) The 2011 Spanish League season has ended and on this week's main report we take a look back at some of the highs and lows of La Liga. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. The Top [TABLE=249]Barcelona won their third title in a row under inspirational manager Pep Guardiola and yet again they did it in style. They won by 4 points from arch-rivals Real Madrid despite easing off towards the end of the season. The Catalan side won more games than any other team, conceded fewer goals, won the Fair Play award in Spain and of course have the top three players in the world in Iniesta, Xavi (http://languagecaster.com/2010/12/24/main-listening-report-week-20-xavi-best-player-in-the-world/) and Lionel Messi. The Argentinian scored 51 goals in all competitions and had 18 assists in the league - undoubtedly the player of the season. Yet Messi was not the top scorer in Spain - instead the Pichichi went to Portuguese star Ronaldo who scored a record-breaking 40 league goals. His side finished second again and yet again 'Los Blancos' scored more than a 100 goals but once Barcelona thrashed them 5-0 in the Camp Nou in November - 'Una Manita (http://languagecaster.com/2010/11/29/football-word-of-the-day-manita-5-0/)' - they were always playing catch-up. Despite not winning the title, their coach Mourinho's first season can be seen as somewhat of a success as he did win the Copa del Rey (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/18/history-of-the-copa-del-rey/) and took the club to the semi-final of the Champions League for the first time in nine years. The dominance of the big two in Spain continued with Valencia in third finishing 27 points behind the leaders, while they were walloped by Madrid at home 2-6. The remaining Champions League spot went to Villareal but they finished 35 points behind Barcelona - another statistic to suggest that La Liga's two-horse race will continue next season. The Bottom [TABLE=250]This year's relegation battle was, like the English Premier League (http://languagecaster.com/2011/05/23/main-listening-report-review-of-the-premier-league-2011/), one of the closest ever with up to six teams battling to escape the drop on the final day. Unfortunately, it was Deportivo la Coruna that ended up dropping down a division after they lost at home to Valencia. Their 43 points was the highest ever points total for a team relegated in Spain but 'Depor' won few friends over the season as the continually parked the bus (http://languagecaster.com/2008/09/18/football-phrase-park-the-bus/), they were involved in nine 0-0 draws and were the league's lowest scorers. The Galician side's coach Lotina resigned and his former club join Hércules and Almeria in next season's Segunda. Mallorca, Getafe, Zaragoza, Real Sociedad and Levante all survived, though it was a close shave as only two points separated these six teams at the end, and next season they will be up against promoted sides Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis, which means we'll have four teams from Madrid and a Seville derby to look forward to. Roll on 2011-12. Vocabulary Los Blancos: The nickname of Real Madrid were walloped: Well beaten; thrashed to escape the drop : To avoid relegation a close shave: Extremely close they will be up against: They will have to face or play against languagecaster.com no 3:15 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-the-premier-league-2011/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-the-premier-league-2011/#comments Mon, 23 May 2011 22:33:56 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15363 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-review-of-the-premier-league-2011/feed/ 0 Birmingham,blackburn,Blackpool,Premier League,relegation battle,The Bad,The Good,The Ugly,Wigan,Wolves The 2011 Premier League season has come to an end and the winners and losers have been decided. On this week's main report we take a look back at some of the highs and lows of the English football season. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) The 2011 Premier League season has come to an end and the winners and losers have been decid... languagecaster.com no 4:30 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-manager-merry-go-round-controversy/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-manager-merry-go-round-controversy/#comments Thu, 12 May 2011 13:10:23 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=15266 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-bundesliga-manager-merry-go-round-controversy/feed/ 0 Bundesliga,dortmund,Football,freiburg,Germany,languagecaster.com,leiverkusen,leverkusen,Main Report,managers,play-offs In Europe the football seasons are coming to a close, but in the Bundesliga in Germany the last games are more controversial than normal. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) In Europe the football seasons are coming to a close, but in the Bundesliga in Germany the last games are more controversial than normal. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Transcript (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/managers.jpg)Welcome to the Bundesliga, where losing might be much more important that winning? This weekend is the last round of Bundesliga games for this season. Dortmund are already champions, St. Pauli are relegated, and several teams are already preparing for next season. This is true for players and coaches, which is why Saturday’s game between Leverkusen and Freiburg is so interesting. The situation is this: Leverkusen is second and hoping to keep their automatic champions league place. A win against Freiburg will secure this. Bayern Muenchen, is in third. Staying in third place means a play-off is required to enter the Champions League. Bayern is hoping Leverkusen lose so that they can leapfrog them. Freiburg is midtable and safe. But everything gets complicated when you look at the managers. You see, the current Freiburg manager, Robin Dutt will be the new Leverkusen manager next season, and the current Leverkusen manager, Jupp Heynckes, will be at Bayern Munchen next season. Therefore Dutt, the Freiburg manager, must be hoping that Leverkusen win, and Heynckes, the Leverkusen manager, must be hoping that Freiburg win.   Of course they are not saying this. All talk is of ‘fighting to the end’ and ‘loyalty to the club’. But it might be true. Might both managers be hoping that their own team loses? So what should they do? Some suggestions have been that they simply stay at home on the day, and let their assistants deal with the game. Or that they swap teams for the day. Dutt leads Leverkusen and Heynckes leads Freiburg. Clearly a unique situation. Enjoy the games, and see you again in the Bundesliga next season. Auf Wiedersehen. Vocabulary play off: A game to decide  the winner of (a tie) by playing in an additional game or series of games. leapfrog: Go one above another team in the league, jump another place higher than another team languagecaster.com no 3:43 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-racism-in-football/ http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-racism-in-football/#comments Sun, 08 May 2011 11:06:20 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15213 http://languagecaster.com/listening-report-racism-in-football/feed/ 0 asian,asian players,barnes,campbell,ferdinand,football racism,racism In this listening report we look back at a podcast from October 2008 when we featured a campaign by the organisation Kick It Out which has set up an anti-racism campaign in England. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/race-image-283x300.jpg) With a race row brewing in France (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/may/05/laurent-blanc-race-row-french) we thought we would look back at a podcast from October 2008 (http://languagecaster.com/2008/10/31/podcast-week-12-kick-racism-out-of-football/)when we featured a campaign by the organisation Kick It Out (http://www.kickitout.org/) which set up an anti-racism campaign in England. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. There is also a worksheet (with answers) which can be downloaded here Kick Racism Out Worksheet.pdf (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/podcast-121.pdf) Transcript Racism in football is thankfully dying out, mainly in part to the Kick It Out (http://www.kickitout.org/) campaign that has raised awareness about the issue since it was formed in 1993. To celebrate its fifteen years of existence, it has just held ten days of action around the UK to continue in the fight to stamp out racial discrimination in the game. So, on this week's main report we take a look at the story of black footballers in England. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/bd4195b3.jpg) That was John Barnes scoring a wonder goal for England against Brazil in 1984 in the famous Maracana Stadium in Rio to help the national team win 2-0. Barnes became an overnight sensation, eventually earning himself a move to Liverpool and going on to win 79 caps for his country and scoring 12 times. But not everyone was happy after that performance against Brazil, with some England supporters abusing him on the plane home and refusing to accept that England had even scored two goals thanks to his colour. Unfortunately, this kind of behaviour was prevalent at the time but had really begun in the 1970s when black players first started to establish themselves in clubs up and down the country. Monkey chants, bananas being thrown onto the pitch and calls for them to go home were fairly common occurrences. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/583942_anderson150.jpg) Barnes was not the first black player to represent his country, that distinction belongs to Nottingham Forest' s Viv Anderson who made his debut in November 1978. Since then there have been 56 black players who have represented their country. The first goal scorer was Watford's Luther Blissett the year before John Barnes' wonder goal in Brazil. The first black captain was Paul Ince in 1993 and since then both Sol Campbell and Rio Ferdinand have repeated the honour. And how about the first black national team manager? That would be Hope Powell of course. She has been the England's women's team coach for the past ten years and lead them to a successful campaign in the World Cup in China (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_FIFA_Women%27s_World_Cup) last year (2007). However, with only one black British manager ever in the Premier League, Paul Ince again, it might be some time before her male colleagues can emulate her at the national level. So, has racism disappeared from football in Britain? It would be naive to think that it has. As recently as 2000 a Home Office report (http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/black-england-players-abused-by-their-own-fans-634446.html) suggested that England fans had abused their own team's black players in a match against France, while in 2005 the FA had to apologise and withdraw a DVD (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/4214617.stm) that celebrated post-war England internationals after not including any black players in it. Furthermore, racist chanting can still be heard up and down football grounds though thankfully not on the scale of two or three decades ago and of course, there has only ever been one black top-flight manager. languagecaster.com no 4:11 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-profile-of-sir-alex-ferguson/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-profile-of-sir-alex-ferguson/#comments Fri, 06 May 2011 22:59:12 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=15176 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-profile-of-sir-alex-ferguson/feed/ 0 alex ferguson,Beckham,Benitez,Ferguson,keane,Manchester Utd,mind games With Manchester United on the verge of a record-breaking 19th league title and a Champions League final to look forward to, this week languagecaster profiles the Red Devils Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) With Manchester United on the verge of a record-breaking 19th league title and a Champions League final to look forward to, this week languagecaster profiles the Red Devils Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Introduction (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/fergie_1888575a-300x187.jpg) When Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson decided to announce he would retire at the end of the 2004 season, the football world was thrown into confusion - true, up until then, he had been one of the greatest managers in the British game but many football fans wondered why he had taken this decision. Sir Alex probably had the same thoughts as he went back on this decision and since then has gone on to win a further nine major titles including taking United to their third (and his second) Champions League title in 2008. Now when he does decide to finally retire fans will not see him as one of the best in Britain but as probably the best. Honours Ferguson has been a winner since he first entered management with St Mirren - claiming the Scottish 1st Division title in 1977 before he moved onto a very successful period with unfashionable Aberdeen. With the north-eastern Scottish club he managed to break the Old Firm's stranglehold and won three league titles, four domestic cups and more impressively, a European Cup Winners Cup win against European aristocrats Real Madrid in 1983. His exploits north of the border saw him enticed to Manchester United in 1986 where he did not have the best start to his career. Indeed, there were rumours that he would be fired from the job but finally Ferguson won United's first league title in 18 years in 1993. Since then he has won 10 more league titles and could make that 11 this season which would take Manchester United beyond Liverpool to become the most successful English club side. He has also won five FA Cups, 3 League Cups, 2 Champions League titles and two World Club titles. Controversies Throughout his successful career, Fergie has never been too far away from controversy, whether that be arguing with opposing managers, criticising referees, selling superstars from his own team or fighting with the media. Though there is now a sense of mutual respect between the two longest-serving managers in the Premier League, there was a time when Arsenal manager Wenger and Ferguson could not be described as friends and this enmity could be seen in the way that their players performed against each other. Other managers to fall foul of the United manager included former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez against whom Ferguson seemed to enjoy playing his so-called mind games. The Scottish manager also demonstrated that he had no time for prima donnas (http://languagecaster.com/2006/11/29/english-football-phrase-2006-week-5-prima-donna/) at his club and over the years has moved players such as Paul Ince, Jaap Staam, David Beckham, Roy Keane and Ruud Van Nistleroy out of the club as soon as he felt they had stepped out of line. The Future Ferguson will be 70 at the end of the year and yet again there is talk of him retiring. The man himself says no but if he were to win a record-breaking 19th league title for United and a 4th major European trophy then there might not be a better time to do so. Vocabulary he went back on this decision: To change his mind, to reverse a decision he first entered management: To enter a profession means to start a career in something, to start work in claiming the Scottish 1st Division title: Winning the title unfashionable: The side were not as big or as strong as powerhouses Celtic and Rangers languagecaster.com no 3:39 http://languagecaster.com/world-cup-stars-johan-cruyff/ http://languagecaster.com/world-cup-stars-johan-cruyff/#comments Sun, 01 May 2011 07:13:45 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=15100 http://languagecaster.com/world-cup-stars-johan-cruyff/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-semi-final-el-clasico-parts-3-and-4/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-semi-final-el-clasico-parts-3-and-4/#comments Thu, 21 Apr 2011 22:47:37 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=14979 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-semi-final-el-clasico-parts-3-and-4/feed/ 0 barcelona real madrid,Champions League,el clasico This week languagecaster previews the semi-finals of the Champions League and attempts to predict the finalists at Wembley in May. | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) This week languagecaster previews the semi-finals of the Champions League and attempts to predict the finalists at Wembley in May. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. The Road To Wembley (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Wembley-Champions-League-final-2011-logo-228x300.jpg) With two teams from La Liga and one each from the Premier League and the Bundesliga, the 2011 Champions League semi-final first legs take place next week. Recent winners Barcelona and Manchester United take on two very different opponents: one with the highest pedigree in European football and the other playing in the competition for the very first time. Barca play Real Madrid their arch-rivals for the third and fourth time in only 18 days while the Red Devils face Schalke. Sir Alex Ferguson's side start as favourites in their game against the Bundesliga team and not just because of their European experience. They currently lead the Premier League and look as if they will win a record-breaking 19th title, while Schalke, the team from Gelsenkirchen on the Ruhr, are languishing in 10th place in the German league and have recently fired their coach Felix Magath. However, any team that can thrash holders Inter Milan in the previous round should not be taken lightly, especially as they can call on the current German national team goal keeper Manuel Neuer, Peruvian international Jefferson Farfan, young Dutch striker Huntelaar and of course the top goalscorer in Champions League history, former Spanish international Raul. United will also be happy that the return leg will take place at Old Trafford but they will be wary that they have been eliminated by three German clubs in recent knock-out rounds. Bayern Munich defeated them last year in the quarter-final, Dortmund beat them in the semi-final in 1997 while Bayer Leverkusen won at the same stage in 2002. Can Schalke cause an upset? Doubtful. A United victory. The other semi-final sees Real Madrid and Barcelona (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/16/main-listening-report-4-things-to-know-about-barcelona-and-real-madrid/)continue with their clásico (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/13/languagecaster-weekly-football-phrase-el-clasico/) series. Game three sees Madrid host their Catalan counterparts in the first leg and this game is delicately poised. In the league game last week Barcelona thoroughly deserved their away point at the Bernabeu which all but guaranteed them the Spanish title. Of course, any psychological advantage that Barca may have gained from that game was lost when Ronaldo's headed winner gave the Copa del Rey (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/18/history-of-the-copa-del-rey/) to Real Madrid for the first time in 18 years earlier in the week. If Madrid were to win - or indeed, even draw - then there will be real pressure on Pep Guardiola's men in the return leg the following week. Barcelona will win - possibly by the big margin they have been threatening to do - to set up a re-match of the 2009 Champions League final against Manchester United. Vocabulary first legs: The first of two games played in a knock-out competition the highest pedigree: A very top level side, one with great tradition. arch-rivals: Their main rivals Red Devils: The nickname of Manchester United are languishing in: Are in 10th place / the team was expected to be higher up the table thrash: Beat another team easily, win by a big score will be wary: A little worried they have been eliminated by: Have been beaten / knocked out by host: The game will be played in Madrid first game is delicately poised: It is difficult to predict the big margin: The large score languagecaster.com no 2:49 http://languagecaster.com/history-of-the-copa-del-rey/ http://languagecaster.com/history-of-the-copa-del-rey/#comments Mon, 18 Apr 2011 11:20:48 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=14770 http://languagecaster.com/history-of-the-copa-del-rey/feed/ 0 athletic bilbao,Barcelona,clasico,Copa del Rey,king's cup,mestalla,Real Madrid,valencia The Copa del Rey | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) The Copa del Rey takes place this week in Valencia between Barcelona and Real Madrid. The languagecaster team takes a look at the second of four clásicos (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/13/languagecaster-weekly-football-phrase-el-clasico/) and predicts a winner. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/200px-Copa_del_Rey_de_Fútbol_-_1978-173x300.jpg) This week sees the final of the Spanish Cup competition, the Copa del Rey, taking place between Barcelona and Real Madrid in the neutral venue of Mestalla, the home of Valencia. Unlike the Spanish League, where Real lead, it is Barcelona who possess the most titles in this competition - they have 25, Athletic Bilbao from the north of the country have 23, while Real Madrid have 17. Remarkably, Madrid have also lost 19 times in the final and indeed have not won this trophy since 1993 - 18 years ago. Since then, los blancos have lost two finals, including one in their home stadium against Deportivo La Coruña in 2002 but perhaps more significantly is the number of different clubs that have won this competition since then: nine. This 'democratisation' is in stark contrast to the dominance of the big two teams in the league. Indeed, the fact that Mallorca (2003); Zaragoza (2001 and 2004); Real Betis (2005); Sevilla (2007 and 2010) and RCD Espanyol (2001 and 2006) have all won the trophy in recent times may well be due to Real Madrid and Barcelona focusing more on la Liga and the Champions League than the domestic knock-out tournament. One name missing from that list is Athletic Bilbao who for the longest time were synonymous with Copa success - they have 23 victories to their name - but the Basque club have not won a title since 1984 though they did reach their first final for 24 years in the 2009 version which they lost 4-1 to Barcelona. This year's version is the first time for 21 years that the 'big two' will meet in the final - they have met 5 times previously in the final with Barcelona winning three and Real twice. There is added spice to this game as it comes before the two teams meet in the Champions League semi-finals next week and that in Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola the clubs have two managers who are not only winners but who also fully respectful of the cup. Choosing a winner in a one-off game is always fraught with danger but I am going for a Barcelona 2-1 victory that will earn the Catalan side their 26th cup triumph. Vocabulary neutral venue: A place where neither side has home advantage Unlike: Not similar to Remarkably: Incredibly, interestingly (A nice way to begin a sentence with an opinion) los blancos: Nickname for Real Madrid in stark contrast to: Completely different to were synonymous with: Connected closely to something (Bilbao had a great Cup history) added spice: Something extra to make the game even more interesting is always fraught with danger: Risky languagecaster.com no 2:20 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-4-things-to-know-about-barcelona-and-real-madrid/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-4-things-to-know-about-barcelona-and-real-madrid/#comments Sat, 16 Apr 2011 12:16:16 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=14710 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-4-things-to-know-about-barcelona-and-real-madrid/feed/ 0 Barça,Barcelona,bernabeu,camp nou,catalan,clasico,cruyff,madrid,raul,Real Madrid | Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here This week languagecaster takes a look at the Clásico and suggests five things you need to know about Real Madrid and Barcelona. There is a transcript below, | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) This week languagecaster takes a look at the Clásico (http://languagecaster.com/2011/04/13/languagecaster-weekly-football-phrase-el-clasico/) and suggests five things you need to know about Real Madrid and Barcelona. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. History (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/1259001552_extras_albumes_0-300x227.jpg)Barcelona were founded in 1899 while Madrid came into existence three years later in 1902 and in the same year the first ever clásico took place: The semi-final of the Copa del Rey when Barcelona beat Real 3-1. Since then there have been 209 meetings between the two clubs: Madrid have won 85, Barcelona 82 with the remaining 30 ending in draws. Now, Real have already beaten Barca in a Champions League semi-final - that was back in 2002 - but in the league, Barcelona have a very good recent record, including a 6-2 away victory two seasons ago and of course the excellent 5-0 win earlier on this season (http://languagecaster.com/2010/11/29/football-word-of-the-day-manita-5-0/). Heroes With such storied histories there are simply too many heroes to list - Butragueño, Hugo Sánchez, Di Stefano and Gento all from Madrid or Guardiola, Charlie Rexach, Suarez all from Barca, Instead, I will choose one from each side: Johann Cruyff and Raúl. Now Cruyff joined Barcelona from Ajax in 1973 for a then world record transfer fee of almost a million pounds and not only helped the side win their first title in 14 years but helped to destroy their rivals Real Madrid 5-0 along the way. He was quite simply the best player in the world at that time and easily won the European Footballer of the Year award in the same year. But Cruyff's hero status at the club stems more from his time as manager of the club. Now he was appointed in 1988 and during his eight-year reign he won 11 trophies including 4 La Liga titles in a row and the first Champions League for the club in 1992. But it was not just the trophies because Cruyff also introduced a football philosophy that has influenced the club ever since. (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/raul5-300x300.jpg) Raúl, on the other hand, cost Real absolutely nothing when he joined the club from crosstown rivals Atletico in 1994 and for the next 16 years he scored a remarkable 323 goals in 741 appearances for the Madrid club. He won the league title in his first season at the club and then went on to win 5 more championships, as well as 3 Champions Leagues - he is the leading goalscorer in this competition with 72 goals, most of which came for Real. A true Real Madrid legend. Trophies (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/barca-winning-champi_76983-300x218.jpg) Real Madrid have won most La Liga titles with 31, with Barcelona second on 20. Madrid have also won the European Cup or Champions League more than any other team - they have 9 victories to Barca's 3, though the Catalan club have won 8 more Copa del Rey titles than their capital rivals, that's 25 to 17. Madrid have also won the UEFA Cup twice but Barca have done so three times. In addition, the Catalan side have won the Cup Winners Cup on 4 occasions and won the World Club Cup in 2009. Football Style Sid Lowe in Sports Illustrated (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/sid_lowe/03/31/guardiola.transfers/index.html) suggests that though many see the two styles as being Real's cartera (wallet) versus Barcelona's cantera (youth system), in actual fact Barca have almost spent as much as Real on players though it should be noted that these players are rarely galácticos, that is, Real Madrid's policy of signing superstars such as Ronaldo, Kaka, Zidane, languagecaster.com no 4:14 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-run-in-in-europe/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-run-in-in-europe/#comments Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:20:01 +0000 grell http://languagecaster.com/?p=14320 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-the-run-in-in-europe/feed/ 0 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-capellos-100-words-of-english/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-capellos-100-words-of-english/#comments Sat, 02 Apr 2011 01:23:03 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=14053 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-capellos-100-words-of-english/feed/ 16 a,acapello,Capello,cappelo,England,football language,soccer words | Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here Fabio Capello has been in charge of England for three years yet he feels he only needs 100 words to get his message across. Therefore, this week's main report wonders whether a football manager... | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) Fabio Capello has been in charge of England for three years yet he feels he only needs 100 words to get his message across. Therefore, this week's main report wonders whether a football manager needs to be able to speak the language of his or her players. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Introduction (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/article-0-0D1C0F32000005DC-311_634x342-300x161.jpg) Fabio Capello is never far away from the limelight or indeed controversy. This week he has been in the news again after it was revealed that he feels that he only needs 100 words or so to communicate with the England players. Now, that of course, may be a reflection of the England players but as English language teachers interested in football we wondered if we could help with Fabio's lack of a footballing lexicon. A Universal Language? Football, of course is a universal language, so, for instance, the word goal is the same in Italian as it is in English, while penalty is pretty much understood by everyone. But what about phrases such as referee (in Italian arbitro), offside (fuorigioco), a corner (bandierina) or a chip shot (il cucchiaio) - oh, who am I kidding I cannot speak Italian - which means shaped like a spoon for those who do. As for positions on the pitch, well the player between the posts is clearly the one who stops the shots though he or she is not known as the stopper - that's another position, while the trequartista (Think Pirlo, Totti or Baggio) is an integral position in Italian football that does not really have a direct translation in English (probably because a player of that calibre has never really been produced in this country). Now if this football jargon is tricky enough imagine what football cliches and expressions must be like for Don Fabio? We have already noted in a previous podcast (http://languagecaster.com/2010/12/04/can-we-translate-the-language-of-football/) that attempting to directly translate these phrases is a potential minefield so what is he to do - apart from subscribe to a football podcast especially geared toward English language learners (http://languagecaster.com/), that is :-) ? 5 More Words and Phrases for Capello More to the point, what football language - and we are not counting 'colourful language' here - does Capello need to learn in order to be really able to communicate with his players? Let us know what words and phrases you think would be useful for the Italian to truly get his message across to his squad. Let's see if we can come up with 100 more words or phrases for Capello to survive in English football. Here are 5 to start with: 1. You're dropped This basically means you are not playing on this team anymore. Particularly useful for when players constantly give possession away (see, for example, Steven Gerrard); misbehave off the pitch (for example, Ashley Cole, John Terry and Wayne Rooney); or they have been around too long without justifying their place (Hello Frank Lampard) or are simply not good enough (Sorry Peter Crouch). 2. To be fair Nothing to do with justice or fairness but simply a phrase that allows the person being interviewed a chance to a) say something and b) have time to think of something else. There is also an alternative version of this phrase: In all fairness; while in the 1970s and 80s I remember players using the expression 'obviously'. Brilliantly vacuous. 3. With all due respect Now this is similar to 'in all fairness' in that it comes at the beginning of a sentence and allows the speaker a chance to gather his/her thoughts, but it usually contains little or no respect for an opponent. So, for example, languagecaster.com no 5:18 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-euro-2012-qualifiers/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-euro-2012-qualifiers/#comments Wed, 23 Mar 2011 20:08:44 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=13920 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-preview-of-euro-2012-qualifiers/feed/ 1 England,Estonia,European Championship 2012,France,Germany,Spain,turkey,wales | Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here This week's main report looks at the qualifying groups of the 2012 European Championships that will take place in Ukraine and Poland next summer. There is a transcript below, | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) This week's main report looks at the qualifying groups of the 2012 European Championships that will take place in Ukraine and Poland next summer. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post, while other key phrases (in blue) also have meanings explained. Introduction (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/UEFA-EURO-2012-LOGO-300x291.jpg) The 2012 European Championship qualifiers resume this weekend and we take a look at how the groups currently stand and offer a tentative prediction on which 14 teams will join the Ukraine and Poland in the tournament next summer. Each of the nine group winners automatically qualify, along with the best runner-up, while the remaining eight second-place teams in each group will play-off to produce four more qualifying teams. Groups A and B Group A seems to be fairly clear-cut for Germany who are already five points ahead of second place Austria. The Austrians are battling it out for second place with Guus Hiddink's Turkey and a Belgium side that were tipped by many to progress but who still only have 4 points from 4 matches. Turkey slumped to two recent defeats - a 3-0 thrashing against the fancied Germans and then more surprisingly 1-0 against minnows Azerbaijan, while Austria and Belgium payed out a crazy 4-4 draw recently. Hidink's team, however,  should have enough experience to bounce back and claim second spot behind the Germans. In group B, Russia are top with 9 points from 4 games with the Republic of Ireland, surprise package Armenia and Slovakia all on 7 points. It seems that no one wants to win the group, or perhaps that should be that no one is good enough to win the group and this means that this group will go down to the wire. Irish coach Trapattonni continues with his rather conservative approach to the game and this may cost the Irish a place in the finals though they should be good enough to come second behind an inconsistent Russia side. Groups C and D Italy comfortably lead group C with 10 points from 4 games and the Azzurri are three points clear of second place Slovenia who they face this weekend. Surprisingly Serbia have performed poorly in the group and they may have difficulty in qualifying after the bad behaviour of their fans in Milan saw the Italians being awarded the points and a shock home defeat against Estonia has seen them drop to fifth place in the group. Italy will definitely make it through while a surprise package such as Estonia or Northern Ireland could grab second spot. Group D is another 'strange' group and though the French side are top of the group with ten points they have already suffered a shock defeat at home to Belarus. Romania's poor form has seen them gain only two points and has allowed both Belarus and Bosnia to dream of qualifying, though I still expect them to come back into some kind of form and finish second behind the French. Groups E and F Beaten World Cup finalists Holland lead the way in group E with maximum points from their four games and they lead Hungary by three points. The Hungarians have only tasted defeat once but that was against Sweden who will be their greatest threat to second place. Group F is regarded as the weakest of all the groups and currently Croatia top the table with ten points from 4. They are followed by former winners Greece and Georgia, with Israel already appearing out of contention. Croatia first and Greece second. Groups G, H and I England appear to be favourites to qualify from group G though they currently sit in second place after their home scoreless draw with leaders Montenegro. It seems like a straight battle between these two as the remaining teams (Bulgaria, Switzerland and Wales) are already so far behind. languagecaster.com no http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-review-2011-the-quarter-finals/ http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-review-2011-the-quarter-finals/#comments Sat, 19 Mar 2011 11:43:03 +0000 damianf http://languagecaster.com/?p=13880 http://languagecaster.com/main-listening-report-champions-league-review-2011-the-quarter-finals/feed/ 1 | Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here This week's main report previews the quarter-final matches from the Champions League and asks which team can win the trophy in Wembley in May. There is a transcript below, | (../wp-content/uploads/2009/02/feed-icon-28x281.png) Subscribe: Main Listening Report | Complete List Here (../2010/08/21/main-listening-report-full-list/) This week's main report previews the quarter-final matches from the Champions League and asks which team can win the trophy in Wembley in May. There is a transcript below, while explanations of key vocabulary (in bold) can be found at the foot of the post. Transcript (http://languagecaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Gary-Lineker-007-300x180.jpg) All of the second round matches of the Champions League have now been completed leaving three teams from England, two from Spain and one each from Italy, Germany and the Ukraine to battle it out to decide this year's best team in European club football. The draw has been made and on this week's main listening report we take a look at the quarter-final match-ups. Real Madrid-Tottenham As a Spurs fan this was exactly the tie I wanted as this could (realistically) be our only run in the Champions League for a while. The glamour, history and attacking talent of the nine-time winners of this competition, Madrid, will have White Hart Lane buzzing though the Spurs fans will be hoping that the tie will not have gone beyond them by the return leg. Madrid boss, Jose Mourinho knows the Premier League well, has a European pedigree that has hardly been bettered by anyone and is a master tactician but he knows that his Madrid will have to be aware of the threat of Bale and Lennon on the flanks and ex-Madridista Van De Vaart playing up front. Tottenham have already put out AC Milan, can they go one better? Unfortunately I doubt it. Chelsea-Manchester United This all-English tie guarantees that one team from the Premier League will be in the semi-final - unlike last season - and this one really is too close to call. A Brazilian colleague called this a 'big English battle' and he is not wrong. The games will be tight and will probably be decided by one goal - no doubt a controversial one at that. Carlo Ancelotti, the Chelsea boss has a very good track record in European competitions while his Manchester United counterpart Ferguson is looking for his third win, one that may then see him retire from the game. Chelsea seem to be finding their form while United have been badly hit by injuries, however I am still going for a Red Devils' victory. Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk Favourites against dark horses. The teams that no one really wanted to face have ended up playing each other. We all know about Barcelona and their style of football, a style that saw them win the title two years ago and reach the semi-final last year. Shakhtar are no mugs however and also won a European title two years ago - The Europa League. They are a side packed with talented Brazilians and the Catalan side will not relish a trip to the imposing Donbass Arena, they will probably need a two-goal cushion to feel confident of progressing. I think they will make it through, though not as easily as many have predicted. Internazionale v Schalke The holders against the outsiders. Inter's comeback againt Bayern Munich was the stuff of heroes and this will no doubt galvanise them to maybe go on and retain the title. Schalke are under-performing in the Bundesliga and have just fired their coach Magath so they seem to be in some sort of disarray though Champions League top scorer Raul lines up in their side. Inter have too much experience, too much fire-power and too much class to fail. So, our predictions here see Real Madrid playing Barcelona and Manchester United playing Inter Milan in the semi-finals but as we know not only have our predictions been a little wayward this season but anything can happen in football. // Vocabulary White Hart Lane: The home stadium of Tottenham buzzing: Very excited indeed has a European pedigree: His success in European competitions is one of the best on the flanks: The wide players, players on the wings, languagecaster.com no