Here's why Europe's watching Iceland...

       

Situated in Northern Europe with a population of just 325,000, Iceland have never been regarded as a footballing force by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, they were the footballing equivalent of an unwanted hand me down that sits in the loft year after year, merely acting as a dust collector. The shear presence of Eidur Gudjohnsen prevents it from getting thrown out altogether, in the hope that it might serve a purpose for something. But times are changing - so get the duster out and watch as the undesirable hand me down turns very fashionable.

Windsor Park, Belfast, September 2nd 2006, Iceland begin their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign with a fantastic 3-0 win over an inform Northern Ireland side. But it was nothing more than false hope, as a promising start to the campaign turned very sour.

Although completing a heart breaking double over Northern Ireland, which saw a David Healy inspired side narrowly miss out on qualification, it was overshadowed by maulings at the hands of Scandinavian foes Denmark and Sweden. The losses to their old rivals was hard to take, but not nearly as embarrassing as the 3 and 4-0 defeats to minnows Liechtenstein and Latvia respectively.

Skip forward a few years and another terrible qualifying campaign saw them finish bottom of their group as they attempted to reach their first World Cup finals. The next campaign ended in similar fashion, as they laboured to just one win and one draw to finish second bottom of their group.

A huge ash cloud was beginning to form over Icelandic football. They hit an all time low when they slumped to 131rd in the FIFA rankings, 13 places below Nordic neighbour The Faroe Islands. Iceland could no longer bank on ageing local hero Eidur Gudjohnsen. They needed something fresh. They needed to spring some life in to the national game at grassroots level. And so they did.

The Icelandic FA turned to a pioneer of Scandinavian football in the shape of Lars Lagerback. The Swede took over in autumn 2011 after leading Sweden to five consecutive major finals. He had the full backing of Icelandic footballs head honchos, in what was seen as a lengthy rejuvenating project. Although, it soon became apparent that Lagerback's lengthy project, might actually materialise into something special quicker than first thought.

Whether it be a stroke of luck or a stroke of genius, Lagerback had timed his arrival into Icelandic football perfectly. He instantly began to reap the benefits of a youth training initiative set up in 2003 by non other than Arnor Gudjohnsen, father of Icelandic footballing god Eidur.

Along with ex Arsenal player, Siggurdur Johnsson, Bolton's Gudni Bergsson and ex Hertha Berlin man Eyjolfur Sverrisson, Gudjohnsen senior founded the first football training academy in Iceland. The academy gave youngsters the opportunity to improve their footballing skills, whilst receiving schooling. The academy offered the best facilities available, the likes of which had never previously been seen in Iceland, and offered the best coaching from top professionals from across Europe. The academy aimed to better prepare young inspiring Icelandic footballers for the demanding nature of the professional game, and on the basis of the players Lagerback had inherited almost overnight, you could argue that the academy was in fact overachieving.

Lagerback's first full campaign in charge, began at home to Norway with a comfortable 2-0 win. But Iceland supporters were keeping their feet firmly on the ground, as they had been in this position not too long ago. And when they followed it up with a 1-0 defeat to Cyprus, a team even Lagerback's predecessor could beat, It was all looking very much like the ill fated Euro 2008 campaign, exactly 6 years ago. But this was a different Iceland, this was Lagerback's Iceland.

The squad that faced Northern Ireland and the likes six years ago, featured the odd English Premiership fringe player, a few Scandinavian based players and even a couple of semi-professionals. The new look Iceland side featured quality players from Europes finest leagues.

Their is no doubt the star man for Iceland is Gylfi Sigurdsson. The Swansea man dictates play in the middle of the park, chipping in with his fair share of goals. He is given the freedom to roam forward with the support from his captain Aaron Gunnarsson. The Cardiff City man has all the attributes of a Premiership player, and it won't be long before he is picked up by one of the top teams. Italian based wide men, Emil Hallferdsson and Bakir Bjarnason complete the midfield, adding quality and flair.

Iceland are not short of options up front either. Real Sociedad man Alfred Finbogason earned himself a big money move to Spain this summer after several promising years in Holland. And it is Holland in which strike partner Kolbeinn Sigthorsson plys his trade. The Ajax man has 16 goals in 26 internationals, and at the age of just 24, he is proving a real threat to Eidur Gudjohnsen's national goal scoring record of 24 goals.

A less glamorous back line is neutralised by the attacking prowess of the players mentioned above, and with talented youngsters on the fringes, Iceland are proving that they are now a force to be reconned with in European football.

Lagerback's successful first qualifying campaign ended in dispair with a playoff aggregate defeat of two goals to nil at the hands of Croatia. But, although Iceland had narrowly missed out on their first major finals, there was reason to be optimistic. Their was a volcanic eruption of confidence within Icelandic football.

The rise of Icelandic football is even rubbing off on the domestic league. Earlier this month, the league season came to the most dramatic ending. League leaders FH and second placed Stjarnan faced off in a winner takes all match, as both teams went into the final day unbeaten.

Stjarnan, best known for their comical goal celebration that went viral last year, took the lead, as they aimed for their first ever league title. Ex Glasgow Rangers man Steven Lennon equalised for FH, only for 10 man Stjarnan to score a 93rd minute penalty to clinch the title.

Just a couple of weeks ago, Icelandic football reached another high as they defeated The Netherlands 2-0 in their latest Euro 2016 qualifier. It seems that Icelandic football is going from strength to strength on all fronts. They top group A with 3 wins, 8 goals scored and 0 conceded, and with the up coming Euro 2016 being expanded to 24 teams, it seems that this could be Iceland's time.

      

                                    

At an all time high of 28th in FIFA's latest rankings, Iceland have gone from being the lowest ranked Nordic team to the highest in just two years. It is certainly proving that Lagerback's project is in full flow, so far ahead of schedule that he is already grooming Icelandic coach Heimir Hallgrimsson to be his successor in a couple if years time. Whether or not he will have the same effect as the veteran Swede, is something that will show over time. But one thing is for sure, is that he will be in charge of one of Europes most talented, upcoming, fashionable nations.

A New Wave Of Dance Music

This week saw the release of Disclosure's debut album 'Settle', ironic as that is something I have struggled to do since I downloaded the album on Monday at approximately 00:02.

However, as we all rejoice to the sounds of what is sure to be album of the summer, I would like to highlight two other production duo's who I feel are destined for the same success that Howard and Guy Lawrence are currently enjoying.

The first duo is 'Toyboy and Robin'. When I tell you that their real names are Toyin Mustapha and Rob Drake, their stage name may sound more crafty then crazy. But do not be put off by the name, as this London based pair are producing dance music that bridges the gap between house music and the new generation of dance acts such as Disclosure.

The two met at university in Manchester, and whilst living together in the same campus, it soon became apparent to one another that their similar tastes and ideas in music were a recipe for success.

It is quite clear that 90's R&B and garage music were the main influences behind Toyboy and Robin. They broke onto the scene last summer with the three tracks 'Loving You', 'To The Top' and 'No More Sunshine', with all three effectively blending electronic rhythms with undeniably catchy R&B vocals. 'No More Sunshine' features vocal samples from 2001 R&B track 'Heard It All Before' by Sunshine Anderson, and 'Loving You' incorporates the lyrics from Strike's 90's club hit 'U Sure Do'.

More recently, Toyin and Rob have turned their hand to the reworking of pop tunes, with catchy dance adaptations of Ellie Goulding's 'Figure 8' and Lana Del Ray's 'Summertime Sadness'. However my personal favourite is their remix of Manchester based singer Bipolar Sunshine's track, 'Rivers'.

The latest release from Toyboy and Robin is sure to see the pair go from one of the rest to one of the best. The track is set to be a summer classic and definitely defines the pairs self proclaimed 'out of the box' dance music. The tracks itchy vocals and club infused dance vibes will make this one a favourite for those of you lucky enough to see them support Example at Ibiza Rocks this summer.

The second crafty named duo, is Snakehips. I would very much like to inform you with the ins and outs of the pair, but they are yet to conform to the realms of social fame and divulge any information on themselves, other than the fact that they are London based.

They were first brought to my attention a few months back with their impressive remix of Bondax's single 'Gold'. Bondax original version typically portrays their effective chilled out style; Snakehips' remix typically portrays their silky Hip-Hop/R&B style, something a bit more upbeat and summery.

On further investigation, I instantly fell for Snakehips breakbeat up-tempo charm. Their rework of American singer Willie Hale's vintage track 'Groove On' is a personal favourite, as is their first solo single 'Miss You Always', both of which have racked up over a million views each on YouTube and have been championed by various Radio 1 DJ's.

However, their newest track On & On is destined to be a summer classic. It too, has had superlatives thrown at it from all angles by Radio 1 DJ's such as Annie Mac and Zane Lowe, who labelled the track with his 'Next Hype' stamp.

The track, which has a rather cool retro video, features vocals from female Australian singer George Maple, who has been widely compared to Jessie Ware. Maple's performance certainly boosts the credentials of the song, but Snakehips trademark soulful hiss and electronic bursts make the track so infectious that you will struggle to shake it off this summer.

Without doubt 'Jaded' and 'On & On' will be big hits this summer, both home and abroad. The singles will no doubt induce the public to stand up and take note of the new wave of house music, that is increasingly nodding towards the 90's R&B/Garage scene. Disclosure have set a precedent for these acts, a high one at that. But as the David Guetta's and Swedish House Mafia's of this world begin to diminish, the pathway to popularity will become more of a common occurrence for acts like Toyboy and Robin, and Snakehips.


Toyboy and Robin - No More Sunshine   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9VWkdK1CC4

Toyboy and Robin - Loving You   https://soundcloud.com/toyboyrobin/loving-you-original-mix

Ellie Goulding - Figure 8 (Toyboy and Robin Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUHktdnPrp4

Bipolar Sunshine - Rivers (Toyboy and Robin Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iOCIYqkgsE

Toyboy and Robin - Jaded   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gvyk2-H81-8

Bondax - Gold (Snakehips Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFnqEo9367s

Snakehips - Miss You Always   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JypACA5H31k

Willie Hale - Groove On (Snakehips Edit)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9Fv6u4S_9g

Snakehips - On & On   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtYCK4O4ZbE

Karma Kid - Destiny In His Own Hands

At the age of 18 the closest I got to making music was playing DJ Hero on my game console. Quite a contrast to Derbyshire's Sam Knowles. Some of you may be more familiar with Knowles' alias, Karma Kid. Those of you who are not, take note.

Knowles burst onto the scene last summer with the single 'It's Always'. The track uses the vocal samples of Ray J's 'One Wish' and was a huge hit with Radio 1 DJs such as Nick Grimshaw and Sarah Jane Crawford. The track highlights Karma Kid's ability to combine R&B, garage, house and funky into one. The yet unnamed genre, is proving to be the 'in-style' at the moment, most popularly demonstrated by Disclosure.

It was followed up by an unreleased track called 'Lust, Love'. The track features catchy vocal samples over the top of some heavy basslines, but yet still manages to portray a vintage soulful image. Knowles has since provided us with some satisfying remixes, none more so than his adaptation of Sweater Beats 'Mlln Dllr', but his ever increasing fan base has been kept waiting for fresh material from the 'Kid' from Matlock.

However, you may wait no more. Knowles latest single, 'In My Arms', has got dance music enthusiasts purring with delight. Annie Mac, amongst others, has labeled the song as a potential summer anthem and personally I think Annie has got it spot on. The song is also accompanied by a pretty cool video, which is definitely worth a watch.

Knowles, once again, applies a trademark R&B vocal to a beat that has house and garage written all over it. The thing that separates Karma Kid from the rest, is that he is creating this eclectic vibes with an arrogant class, demonstrated by the almost cocky laugh deployed throughout 'In My Arms'.

His latest release is a collaboration with Friend Within and Yasmin titled 'Feeling (So Special)' and has been released on the Monki and Friends EP, which is free to download. It features a sample from the 80's hit 'Saturday Love' by Cherrelle and Alexander O' Neal. The collaboration works tirelessly to provide a summer hit, particularly with Yasmin's vocals, which I will never get bored of listening to.

Knowles describes his entrance into the electronic music scene as 'curiosity fuelled', and one thing is for sure, he has left many people curious as to what the future holds for Karma Kid. This next year could possibly be a life changing year for the talented teenager.

Karma Kid - It's Always   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QdEOhTBTFc

Karma Kid - Lust, Love   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGNqd1TNbI8

Sweater Beats - Mlln Dllr (Karma Kid Remix)     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCgk_uH0oXA

Karma Kid - In My Arms  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NoZsL0HP7Y 

Karma Kid & Friend Within - Feeling (So Special) Ft. Yasmin   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1GJKPpog86E 

The New Derby With A Bitter History

In the footballing world this weekend, their is some mouthwatering derbies. Their is the Highland derby and the Edinburgh derby in Scotland, the South London derby between Millwall and Charlton, the East Lancashire derby between Burnley and Blackburn, the Turin derby in Italy and the Madrid derby in Spain. Feisty rivalries between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, as well as Ajax and PSV Eindhoven will also be contested.

However, the derby of the weekend is unique in that it is the first of its kind. When Wimbledon FC folded in 2003 two spin off teams were formed in the shape of MK Dons and AFC Wimbledon. The teams hated each other on separation from their mother club and have never previously had a chance to battle it out. However, the FA Cup has once again worked its magic and thrown up a tie between the two, that has the whole of England talking.

Wimbledon FC were formed in 1989 and spent their early years playing non-league football.  They were elected into the Football League in 1977-78 at the expense of Workington. And for the first few years they huffed and puffed without ever really causing a fuss. That was until their retched season of 1981-82, a season that involved relegation, the loss of their chairman and manager and the tragic suicidal death of player Dave Clement. It was as if the season was the wake up call the club needed, the catalyst to become something big.

Under the management of Dave Bassett Wimbledon achieved three promotions in four years. It was a meteoric rise that caught many by surprise. And they did little to harm their reputation by making a good account of themselves in England's top flight.

However, Wimbledon's monumental moment came in the 1988 FA Cup. The final was supposed to be a foregone conclusion. League champions, Liverpool, were expected to cruise to a second domestic double in three years. But the team from south east London had a reputation of being cup 'giant killers' and were ready to write their name into English footballing history.

A goal from part Ecuadorian, part English, part Northern Irish midfielder Lawrie Sanchez, along with a penalty save from goalkeeper Dave Beassant, ensured Wimbledon had pulled off one of the biggest cup upsets of all time. Incidentally Beassant's penalty save was the first of it's kind in an FA Cup final. But that meant very little in comparison to his clubs unlikely achievement. Wimbledon had become only the second club to win the FA Cup and the FA Amateur Cup.

However, the FA Cup triumph would be the pinnacle for the unfashionable London club. They went from being a decent top flight team, to a struggling top flight team, before eventually being relegated in the year 2000.

As quick as Wimbledon had shot up the leagues and risen to fame, a similarly quick demise now lay ahead.

On field and off field problems began to mount for Wimbledon, none more so than the ever lingering stadium dispute. Ever since Wimbledon moved from Plough Lane to ground share with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, they never had a place they could call home. The move was enforced by higher powers who deemed Plough Lane to be unsuitable for the Premier League, although the switch was only supposed to be temporary.

As time went by, the motivation to find their own home was lost, probably caught up in their new dizzying highs. With administration beckoning, owner Charles Koppel proposed a move to the National Hockey Stadium 56 miles north in Milton Keynes. If the move to Selhurst Park was controversial, then the latest move was seen as nothing short of a disgrace.

The outcome saw Wimbledon make the move to Milton Keynes before entering administration. A re-branding of the club post-administration saw them renamed MK Dons. Disgruntled fans formed a 'phoenix club' as they looked on in disgust at what their ex-club had now turned into. The new club was called AFC Wimbledon.

It must be said that the two offspring clubs have endured mild success since the dissolving of the old Wimbledon. MK Dons have developed into a successful Football League side, finding relative comfort in League 1, agonisingly losing out on promotion on several occasions. They won the Football League Trophy during the 2007-08 season and have had some notable managers such as Paul Ince and Roberto Di Matteo.

AFC Wimbledon have surged through the English lower leagues in a manner that is testament to their mother club. They have achieved five promotions in nine years, going from the Combined Counties League to League 2. Amidst their promotions they also racked up an incredible run of 78 consecutive league games without defeat, spanning from February 2003 to December 2004. It is the current record for the longest unbeaten run in English football.

That pretty much brings us up to date, a division between them, and an intriguing cup tie just around the corner at the Stadium MK. The hosts have had a good season, sitting third in League 1 and have not lost in their last eight games, a run that includes six wins and nineteen goals.

Contrastingly, AFC Wimbledon are finding life hard as a Football League side. They have won just two of their last eight and have conceded fifteen goals in the process. They linger just above the relegation zone and may have one eye on a relegation six pointer with Barnet next week.

The match will be a particularly interesting one for several personnel involved. MK Dons captain Dean Lewington and goalkeeper David Martin were once Wimbledon youth players and joined seamlessly during the re-branding of the old Wimbledon. Their assistant manager Mick Hartford was once a former player for Wimbledon, as was AFC loanee Neil Sulivan, who will be hoping his parent club allow him to play in Sunday's grudge match. Both were team mates of current AFC manager Neil Ardley who was once a 'Crazy Gang' legend with 291 appearances under his belt, making the match an emotional one for himself.

If the cup tie is played to a manner that resembles the old Wimbledon, we should expect hard challenges, red cards and maybe even the odd bloodshed. The old Wimbledon were notorious 'giant killers', and therefore the writing is maybe on the wall for AFC. However, Wimbledon never stuck to the script.

Unlikely Underdogs, Ultimately Underachieve

Since the turn of the millennium, in the footballing world, there has been several shock winners of the various continental tournaments. Each international association has had a surprise winner since the year 2000, with some winners coming from outwith FIFA's top 50 ranked teams.

On one hand, the probability of these unlikely nations winning their association trophy may actually have been quite high. More and more nations are trying to expand the great game by ploughing large sums of money into their domestic leagues and youth set ups. The game is becoming more multi-cultural, with many foreign players getting the opportunities to ply their trade in some of the worlds top leagues. However, toppling continental greats such as Brazil (CONMEBOL), Germany (UEFA) and Egypt (CAF) just seemed to be to big of an ask for FIFA's mediocre nations. But recent winners are proving that with a committed FA, the right manager at the helm, a bunch of hard working players, and a little bit of luck, upsets can be achieved, and winning trophies may no longer be a foregone conclusion for FIFA's powerhouses.

The first upset of the millennium came in its first year. North America's continental trophy, The Gold Cup, has been dominated by Mexico and USA. Since 1991, eleven competitions have been held, with Mexico winning six and USA winning four. The only team to buck the trend was Canada with their Gold Cup win in 2000.

Their winning adventure was fraught with danger. They had never previously been in a Gold Cup final and their FIFA ranking was 85. The pre-tournament favourites were hosts USA, along with Mexico and tournament guest Columbia. In December 1999 Canada qualified for the tournament through the qualification playoff. The top two teams from a four team group would qualify for the tournament proper. Canada kicked off against Cuba with a bore 0-0 draw. They, therefore, had to win their remaining two matches to qualify and to their credit, they did, just. The Canucks scraped two 2-1 wins against El Salvador and Haiti, both being reduced to ten men at some stage in the qualification matches.

Nevertheless, Canada had qualified and were drawn in Group D with Costa Rica and Asian invites South Korea. The group was very tight, with all three games ending in a draw. Costa Rica topped the group on goals scored, as they had drawn both their games 2-2. Canada and South Korea drew 0-0, resulting in the unlikely scenario of both teams being tied on points, goals scored, goals conceded and of course head to head record. Controversially, the second team to proceed from the group would be decided by a coin toss. Canada won the toss and proceeded to face Mexico in the quarter final.

It must also be said, remarkably, Canada progressed from their group in the following Gold Cup, by the same virtue. All they needed to do in their final group game was draw with Ecuador, in fact a 1-0 defeat would have even seen Canada through on goal difference. But a comical capitulation in the last two minutes saw Ecuador grab the two goals they needed to force the coin toss. Canada ultimately won the coin toss for a second consecutive tournament.

But back to 2000, and Canada faced Mexico in the quarter finals. Mexico were ranked 10th in the world and were expected to make cannon fodder of the Canadians. And after taking the lead after half an hour, it was surely a foregone conclusion.

But with just seven minutes of normal time remaining, Northampton Town striker Carlo Corazzin equalised, meaning the game went into the dreaded golden goal. Cue an unlikely hero in the shape of Inverness Caledonian Thistle left back Richard Hastings.

Hastings was playing second division football in Scotland and had never previously scored for his country. But after a counter attack stemming from a rather over indulgent Mexico corner, Hastings found himself one on one with the opposition goalkeeper, and subsequently scored the winning goal. It would be Hastings only ever international goal in 59 appearances. He was partial to a cup upset that year, going on to be a part of the famous 'Super Caley Go Ballistic, Celtic Are Atrocious' Inverness team that went onto beat Celtic in the Scottish Cup.

Canada would face a rather handy Trinidad and Tobago side in the semis, who had the likes of Dwight Yorke, Russell Latapy and Arnold Dwarika in their starting line up. The match would ultimately be one of those where the goalkeeper grabbed crosses, shots and the headlines. A penalty save in the 35th minute from West Ham goalkeeper Craig Forrest, was the highlight of a stunning display, which was capped off with a win, thanks to a goal from Oldham defender Mark Watson; a player I doubt much of Oldham will have known at the time, let alone now.

Against all odds, Canada were in the final, where they would now face pre-tournament favourites Columbia. The South American's would later go on to lift the Copa America the following year with the likes of Carlos Valderrama and Faustino Asprilla to call upon. Therefore, they were a real force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

However, the final was somewhat of an anti climax. It was expected to be one way traffic, with Columbia dominating. It was quite the opposite to be honest. Dundee United defender and Canadian captain Jason De Vos scored on the stroke of half time to give Canada a deserved lead, before Carlo Corazzin grabbed his fourth of the tournament to secure the win. Forrest saved a penalty for the second consecutive match, but it was the only time Columbia threatened the Canadian goal.

Canada were crowned champions of North America by Sepp Blatter for the first time in their history. However, it would be the peak for Canada, who failed to qualify for the next World Cup and struggled to match the results they achieved at the 2000 Gold Cup.

The world of football would have to wait just four years before the next big upset occurred. This time it was UEFA that would oversee one of the biggest shocks in football history. I am, of course, talking about Euro 2004 and it's unlikely winners, Greece.

In fairness Greece were ranked in the top thirty teams in the world and they did top their qualifying group which contained Spain. But, 2004 was their first tournament in 24 years and the European Championship was normally dominated by big guns such as Germany, France and Italy.

Greece were drawn in Group A with hosts and much fancied Portugal, Spain and Russia. Thanks to goals from Karagounis and Basinas, Greece stunned the hosts in the opening game of the tournament, winning 2-1. They would then go on to draw with Spain, in what was very much a backs against the wall performance from the Greeks. Heading in to the final group game against Russia, Greece just needed a draw to qualify for the next round. But they got off to the worst possible start, conceding the quickest goal in European Championship history after just 68 seconds. The match was a tightly contested affair, which Russia won 2-1. That meant that anything other than a draw in the other group game between rivals Portugal and Spain, would see Greece through. Indeed, Portugal won the other match and Greece were preparing for the quarter finals.

They would face the defending champions France in the quarter finals. France were undefeated in the tournament and had won all eight qualifying matches. But Greece now feared no one and under the lead of German coach Otto Rehhagel, they were proving very hard to beat.

They frustrated France in an enthralling quarter final encounter, and deservedly took the lead with a trademark Angelos Charisteas header after 65 minutes. It was enough to see Greece through, in what was one of the most remarkable results in the history of European football.

The Czech Republic were the semi final opponents for Greece. Under the alias of Czechoslovakia, the Czech Republic had won the tournament in 1976 and were now one of Europes strongest teams. However, Greece made winning 1-0 a habit, as Roma centre back Dellas powered home an extra time header that was enough to secure the win by the virtue of silver goal. The Czechs had their fair share of chances, but couldn't convert. Greece would romp on into the final, where they would face hosts Portugal.

Everyone was expecting a Portugal win. They were very much a team on form with Phil Scolari in charge and with home advantage their name was basically on the trophy before the final kicked off. But lets not forget, Greece had beaten them in the opening game of the tournament.

It was obviously a good omen for the Greeks, as they once again laboured to a 1-0 win, again thanks to a Charisteas header. Portugal were stunned by the goal and struggled to get into the game thereafter. Just like Canada, against all odds, Greece were crowned the champions of their continent.

Fast forward three years, and this time it was the turn of Asia to witness a surprise winner. It was no secret to any one in the world, that Iraq were a country riddled with trouble and disaster. Infact, just days before their triumph in the Asian Cup, 50 people were killed in the capital city of Baghad, as people took to the street to celebrate their semi final win over South Korea. Terrorists saw the mass gathering of members of the public as a chance to cause havoc, and havoc they caused.

Iraq were grouped with pre-tournament favourites Australia, who were participating in the tournament for the first time after newly becoming an Asian member. Co-hosts Thailand and Oman completed the group.

Iraq topped the group after drawing with Thailand and Oman, and incredibly making easy meat of Australia, beating them 3-1. They would progress to face unlikely opponents in the shape of Vietnam. It was a very kind draw for Iraq and they moved into the semi finals with a comfortable 2-0 win.

The semi final offered a much tougher task. Iraq would face South Korea, who had a large contingent of players playing in some of Europe's top leagues. However, Iraq defended bravely and forced the match into extra time after a 0-0 draw. Iraq scored all four spot kicks in the shootout, meaning they would play in their first ever Asian Cup final.

The final saw Iraq play Saudi Arabia in what was billed as a contest of the tournaments best attack, Saudi Arabia, and the tournaments best defence, Iraq. Therefore, goals were not heavily expected, and they were ultimately not delivered either, well all but one.

One goal was enough to secure victory for the Lions, sparking mass celebrations back home in Baghdad, despite a government plea to vacate the streets due to the bloodshed after the semi final celebrations. It didn't stop jubilant Iraqis, who celebrated well in to the night, thankfully this time with no bloodshed.

One of the most recent continental cup upsets occurred in February this year, and accompanying it was a fairytale story that would not look out of place in Hollywood.

The story is based around Zambia and their stunning African Cup of Nations win. At the beginning of the year they were ranked 71st in the world and went into the tournament as unlikely winners. They were drawn in a group with Equatorial Guinea, Libya and Senegal, a group which they topped with two wins and a draw.

They were drawn against Sudan in the quarter final, and comprehensively beat them 3-0. They then met Ghana who were one of the tournament favourites. Zambia rode their luck at times, highlighted by Asamoah Gyan's penalty miss in the first half. But Zambia stood firm in defence and nicked a goal in the 78th minute, enough to see them through to the final.

The final, against Ivory Coast, was a tight affair, with the Didier Drogba led men edging it in normal time. Infact the former Chelsea man missed a spot kick in normal time, meaning the game went to penalties after finishing 0-0.

It gave Zambia hope, as Ivory Coast had a rather rotten record in penalty shootouts. The first nine penalties were scored, then drama struck. Zambia's Mweene had to score and he did. Although he was made to retake it. He got the better of the pressure and forced the shootout to sudden death. As Arsenal forward Gervinho missed and Sunzu scored, Zambia were crowned African champions for the first time. The result meant so much to Zambia, with the win being dedicated to the tragic victims of the Gabon air disaster.

In 1993 the Zambian national football team, dubbed the golden generation, were travelling to Senegal for a world cup qualifier. They were one of the finest teams in Africa at the time and were one of the favourites to win the African Cup of Nations the following year.

Tragically, the plane crashed off the coast of Liberville, Gabon, killing all 25 players and coaching staff on board. Their golden generation had been wiped out, and Zambia never really recovered, until now. The scene of this years triumph was ironically in Liberville, Gabon, making success all the more sweeter for Zambian people.

The latest in the list of striking international victors, and possibly the most unbelievable of the lot, is Tahiti. The island, representing French Polynesia, has a population under half a million and, although they are one of the stronger teams in the Oceania region, they had never previously won the OFC Nations Cup.

The tournament had only ever been won by Australia and New Zealand. But with Australia opting to move into the Asian federation, New Zealand were by far the only realistic winners of the tournament. The Kiwis are miles ahead of any other Oceania team in terms of footballing prowess, highlighted when Tahiti found themselves at the wrong end of a 10-0 mauling from New Zealand just a few years ago.

But this summer Tahiti managed to stun everyone by winning the OFC Nations Cup, beating Solomon Islands in the semi final and New Caledonia, the conquers of New Zealand, in the final.

Although Tahiti qualified for the Under 20 World Cup in 2009, proving they have a decent batch of young players, It was still a remarkable achievement for a country ranked 138th in the world. Although it must be said that the quality of football in Oceania is nothing short of horrendous. If New Zealand were to follow Australia and switch regions to Asia, you cant help but feel it would signal the end of competitive football in the continent, that's if you can even call it competitive just now.

The unlikely victories of Canada, Greece, Iraq, Zambia and Tahiti are what keeps the romance in football. Everyone loves to see an underdog triumph, but with success, comes expectation. Everyone expects to see an underdog progress. And apart from Greece, who without setting the world alight, have been consistent within Europe, the others have failed to use their wins as a platform for better things. Canada failed to produce quality players as predicted, struggled in following Gold Cups and have failed to qualify for a World Cup since. Likewise, Iraq have failed to qualify for a World Cup, but did make a decent account of themselves at the Confederations Cup, conceding just one goal in three games, but scoring none. Just last week they were thrashed by Brazil 6-0 and have struggled to remain consistent. Zambia looked less than impressive against Uganda in a qualification playoff for the next African Cup of Nations, going through on penalties. Although it is maybe too early to judge their project.

As for Tahiti, I fear the worst. They recently competed in the Coupe de I'Outre-Mer, a tournament contested by French colonies. They entered as favourites, but went out at the group stage after an embarrassing defeat to Mayotte, a colony not even recognised by FIFA. Their latest qualification fixtures have seen them slump to defeats against Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and New Zealand, failing to score and conceding eight. Next year they will travel to Brazil to represent Oceania in the Confederations cup. There they will face the likes of Brazil, Spain, Italy and Uruguay. I cant help but feel they will be decimated by such quality sides. I wouldn't even be surprised if they withdrew, to preserve the national sides limited funding and decreasing confidence.

Bondax

A few months back, I posted an article on the Lawrence brothers, who together form Disclosure. I have stumbled across another talented duo, proving to me that two heads really are better than one.

The latest dynamic duo go by the names of George Townsend and Adam Kaye, or to me and you, Bondax. They hail from Lancaster and astonishingly, both of them are still teenagers. However, you wouldn't think so judging by the quality of their music, that would have many believing they were seasoned veterans of the industry.

Much like Disclosure, their genre is somewhat unprecedented. Their subtle use of bass, soulful vocals and melodic percussion provides a chilled out euphoria. I can only describe their music as being like Phonat or Bobby Tank on tranquilisers. I am a huge fan of both of these artists as well, but Bondax just offers a more subdued, but effective, end product.

The single 'You're So' oozes class. It accompanies their trademark R&B vocals and catchy piano riffs, with an almost drum and bass backing. However, it was their latest single that brought them to my attention, 'Baby I Got That'.

The single has had a lot of airplay on Radio 1, particularly from Annie Mac, and the video has featured on MTV, albeit you would need to be nocturnal to have heard or seen the song via these platforms. Nevertheless, it still highlights the fact that this song is getting the attention it deserves.

It offers a nostalgia to this years summer that never was. I really could picture myself ice cold beer in hand, laying by the pool, relaxing to 'Baby I Got That'. And thanks to San Francisco producer Justin Martin, an alter ego remix, more suited to nightclubs, is also available for those who are ready to party.

The two young heads have a rather slim portfolio at the moment, as far as their own work goes. Although they do have some rather interesting remixes under their belt. Remixes of Marco Del Horno's 'This Town Is Ours' and Monarchy's 'You Don't Want To Dance With Me' shows that the guys are more versatile than first meets the eye; a trait that will prove its weight in gold in years to come. But for the time being we will just have to wait in anticipation for the next Bondax release.

Nowadays, I find it hard to come across music that gets me head beating and toe tapping at the same time. But Bondax's self proclaimed 'airy sunny romantic vibes' ticks that unusual box. Infact for me, Bondax ticks all the boxes and I'm sure, in time, many more music fans will feel the same way. At the age of just 18, time is on their side. Lets just hope that they use their age to their advantage.

Bondax - Baby I Got That   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-YmjBdNqc4

Bondax - You're So   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH7cOkYBH_I

Bondax - Just Us   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3z6s224b8U

Bondax - Just Smile For Me   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2XBHEr9gKo

Monarchy - You Don't Want To Dance With Me (Bondax Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PSD_6zY8Oo

Marco Del Horno - This Town Is Ours (Bondax Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14ZHYj_x1Vk

Seye - Mexicana Bounce (Bondax Remix)   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f47O0nlEDAk

Freddy Adu. Who?

In 2004 a young African American, at the tender age of just 14, became one of the youngest athletes to sign a professional contract in the United States. He had already been tipped to be the next Pele, and outshine top American sportsmen such as Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. Sports Illustrated branded him the Superhero that would take Soccer to a new level in the USA. Manufacturing heavyweight, Nike, agreed a $1 million contract with the prodigy when he was just 13.

The man, or boy, in question is Freddy Adu. By the fall of 2004 he was a household name. Endorsed by the great Pele, he was destined for spectacular things when he signed for MLS side D.C United. However less than a decade later the once boy wonder, has now left everyone wondering how everything went so wrong.

Born in Ghana in 1989, Adu arrived on the shores of America in 1997 after his mother won the Green Card Lottery; a program that allows permanent resident visas to natives of countries deemed to have low rates of immigration to the USA. By 2001, it was the USSF (United States Soccer Federation) who thought they had won the lottery.

Adu immediately began to display his footballing capabilities to those in his adopted home of Maryland and moved up the ranks quick. At the age of 12, Adu joined the IMG Academy in Florida. As most MLS clubs did not have youth systems, the IMG Academy was considered as the step below playing professional football in the USA. He would be there for just two years, when the demand for him to turn pro became too tempting for the teenager.

Manchester United and Inter Milan were reportedly interested in bringing Adu to Europe. Although, Adu was now beginning to be viewed as a cash cow for American football. Therefore, the MLS ensured Adu remained state side by including him in the 2004 MLS Super Draft. A deal was cut with Dallas Burn, who owned first pick in the draft, that meant D.C United would have first 'dibs' on Adu, in order to allow Freddy to be closer to home. At least somebody was thinking about the well being of the misguided and heavily exploited 14 year old.

Although starting well, Adu's first season at D.C United didn't quite go to plan. He made his debut against San Jose Earthquakes on the opening day of the season, becoming the youngest player to play in the MLS. As he crossed the playing line, America celebrated what they thought was the beginning of a new era. Less than a fortnight later the teenage prodigy scored his first professional goal, again, the youngest to do so in the league's history. But this would be the highlights of Adu's baptism of fire.

His spell at D.C United gradually turned sour as the teenager seemingly became weighted down by the pressure. Game time was limited and goals were a rarity. Despite this, Adu was made the highest paid player in the MLS, earning $500,000 per year, most likely because his price as a commodity was outweighing his importance as a player. Nevertheless he was still given opportunities and even featured in two all star games.

After a fall out with D.C coach Piotr Nowak, Adu was treading thin ice and the door marked exit, was now gaping. The youngster did, however, continue to give his all, but it seemed that this was a last gasp attempt to secure a now desired move to Europe.

After 87 games and a mere 11 goals for D.C United, Freddy Adu did get his move, although he would remain in the MLS with Real Salt Lake. By this time, Adu's reputation was in decline, his confidence in concordance.

His stay in Utah with Real Salt Lake was short lived, 11 games to be precise. After an impressive Under 20 World Cup with the American national side, Adu earned his dream ticket to Europe when Benfica came calling. At a cut back price of $2 million, people in Europe thought Benfica had a bargain. You see, much of Europe were naive to Freddy Adu's failure to live up to the hype in America. They still saw him as a promising talent. They were wrong.

To say Adu didn't take Europe by storm, would be an understatement. Infact he was nothing more than a light breeze. He yet again failed to brake the 11 game mark at his new club, and left Benfica on loan, the destination Monaco, a team heading down the same bleak road that the once boy wonder now found himself on.

A season long loan at Monaco saw him make just 9 appearances without finding the net. Failure to score became a habit for Adu, matching the stalemate at Belenenses, although with just 3 appearances to his name, he didn't have much of a chance.

His troubled time in Portugal was made worse by injuries. It seemed that nothing could go right for the boy who seemingly had everything at the age of 14.

The following season he joined Greek side Aris. Despite finding the net for the first time in two years, Adu again failed to make double digits in terms of appearances. Europe were now well aware that the one time phenomenon was just another run of the mill American import.

Freddy hit rock bottom when he was loaned out, once more, to Caykur Rizespor, a Turkish second division side who weren't even regarded as promotion candidates. Although, he did form some degree of redemption in Turkey, scoring 4 goals in 11 games.

His name was thrown in the international pot once again, after a two year exile between 2009 and 2011. He was selected for the 2011 Gold Cup after impressing in Turkey, but made just two appearances, albeit in the semi final and final.

Failing to establish himself in Europe, Adu headed back to America. He signed on a free transfer for Philadelphia Union, ironically managed by his once D.C United coach Piotr Nowak. And if Freddy was expecting to be welcomed back to America as a hero, he was wrong.

Adu had been given the chance to start a fresh at Philadelphia. He single handedly disposed of all the expectation placed on him at a very young age. His hunger for the game returned and he was gradually recapturing some of the magic that graced him as a teenager.

In fairness he somewhat steadied the ship at Philly. He still struggled to find the back of the net, although goalscoring was not so much of a requirement. Just like many other seasoned journeymen, Adu moved further back the field, now being deployed as a midfielder. The funny thing is, he is still only 23.

But just as things began to look up, Freddy was once again brought back down to earth. This time it was new Philly coach John Hackworth that decided to publicly criticise Adu. Standing his ground, Adu spoke back and paid the price.

He is now struggling to hold down a starting place once again and is apparently not in Jurgen Klinsmann's plans for the national side. It seems like we have gone full circle, with Freddy reportedly looking for another move away from America.

He may want to try his hand at Europe once again, or maybe pastures new in Asia. He may be suited to the Asian market, as they will no doubt buy in to his boyhood stories there. His style of play may also suit the far east.

But lets face it, Freddy Adu may well be the biggest anti-climax to come out of the USA ever.

He certainly has the likable factor and maintains a positive attitude. But a failed stint in Europe, the absence of a World Cup appearance and two torrid spells in his homeland, does not look good on a CV. It seems like the next Pele, would have ultimately failed to lace the great mans boots.

However, I think the people that directed, or rather misdirected, Freddy Adu at a young age must take a long hard look at themselves. What 13 year old would turn down a $1 million contract with the biggest manufacturing company in the world? What 14 year old would turn down the chance to play professional football? Maybe one who was not used as a promotional tool for American soccer and ultimately the USA itself.