Angels Links: Confederations Cup kicks off

Chile defeats Cameroon 2-0, VAR takes center stage

Chile defeated Cameroon 2-0 in their opening match for the Confederations Cup. Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez scored both goals for Chile. These are both talented teams, and they played a decent game. However, all anyone is talking about after the game is the use and effectiveness of VAR (Video Assistant Referee). This is basically soccer’s attempt to integrate video replay after goals into the game. Two goals were decided by VAR, one taken away, and one given. This restarts the eternal debate of allowing the element of human error in the game, and not effecting the flow of the game, versus the attempt to use technology to get every call as right as possible. Reviews are mixed so far, and it will definitely be something to keep an eye on as the Confederations Cup goes forward.

Portugal and Mexico draw 2-2, with Mexico equalizing in stoppage time

The best game of the Confederations Cup so far was Mexico vs. Portugal, which ended 2-2 with an equalizer by Mexico right at the end. Portugal opened the scoring on a great play by Cristiano Ronaldo, sucking the Mexican defenders outside before cutting back and sliding a pass to a wide open Ricardo Quaresma to tap in. Mexico equalized right before the half, Carlos Vela sending in a nice cross to Chicharito to head in the net. Portugal went ahead again in the 84th minute through Cedric, but Mexico equalized right at the end off a header by Hector Moreno. Both teams looked good in the match, and it wouldn’t be surprising if either team won the tournament.

Ronaldo made interesting offer to switch teams

The rumor mills of the transfer window were on fire this weekend as it was reported that Cristiano Ronaldo wanted to leave Real Madrid. The list of possible teams was unsurprising. PSG, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, etc. A German third division, Fortuna Koln team has made an interesting offer. Unable to offer the money, or competition of teams in higher leagues, Fortuna Koln has offered a lifetime supply of beer if Ronaldo will sign for them. That’s certainly one way to compete with the best teams for top player signings.

Former Chelsea star Oscar starts brawl in the Chinese Premier League

Oscar has had an interesting time in the Chinese Premier League. He made news again this weekend, as his tackle on an opponent set of a wild brawl in their match.

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