Adidas F50 Adizero Messi Football Boot

Finally the one they call 'King Leo' has broken into a rare club, Adidas recently launched the highly anticipated F50 Adizero Messi boot. For those wondering this is not entirely the first boot made for the great footballer, but for the record it is the official start. Messi now joins the likes of Ronaldinho, David Beckham, Ronaldo, Pele and CR7 (Cristiano Ronaldo) as footballer who have a trademark football boot.


Speaking at the launch of the boot Messi had this to say, '' It's a great experience and I hope there will be many more in the future''. Short and sweet just like the man himself, the best player in the world will certainly keep selling these bad boys for Adidas with his impeccable performances.








I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity to try these boots out, I had been waiting anxiously for a chance to see what Adidas had to offer. Messi's and Adidas' competition is Cristiano Ronaldo and Nike (Funny How Things Plan Out), Nike has long had the trademark CR7 boots made for the Portuguese & Real Madrid star. Obviously with the growing stature and reputation of Messi ...Adidas had to jump in, having tried the CR7 Mercurial boots in the past I was keen to snap up the Messi Adizero's.

Firstly the one thing that will catch your eye when you receive these boots is the packaging, the box is incredibly slick and elegant. Immediately you feel like you are in the presence of something special, Adidas really captured the imagination here.

You are greeted by a message that says, ''Play the Messi way''...obviously a play on words there because if it was that simple we all would be winning awards left, right and center.








The color and detail of the boot is really exciting and looks 'Messi like' if I can phrase it that way, Adizero fanatics will tell you that the boot isn't really much different to a normal F50. Truthfully I would have to agree but this is for a specific target market group, I've never really understood the reason for these trademark superstar boots. The reason is because I feel the price and overall performance of the boot is exactly the same as the original, the only difference is this one is customized with a personal design and name on it. After a week or two I realized the appeal, the difference with these type of boots is that you will be one of a few who wears them. You are holding or wearing a piece of history, they are different and symbolic. Footballers want to be special, more special than the next player out there and these boots do that.

Messi has been heavily involved in the development of the boot and the product itself has gone through 10 major testing rounds. With his natural movements on-pitch analysed and the boot shaped around these, Messi has been involved in every aspect of the development of the boot.The new Adizero F50 Messi combines revolutionary technologies and precision engineering with every aspect of the boot design based around making the wearer as fast as possible on the football field. At only 165g, the Adizero F50 Messi boot is one of the lightest shoes on the market and believe me you can feel it. In the box you will find two extra soles for your feet, the ones in the boot are speed based, lighter and thinner for improved performance. The others are comfort based soles, easily adjustable and much more comfortable. 

The Sprintskin is a 1.5mm thick layer made from DUALMAX synthetic with exclusive leather-grain material that allows the boot to be lightweight whilst maintaining a natural feeling between boot and ball, this is specifically tailored for Messi’s needs. Sprintweb is the 3D printed texture on the surface of the boot that allows for exceptional ball control at speed and also provides the supple but stable feel. The final layer of boot construction is the Sprintframe, a strong but lightweight lower section that offers players a perfectly balanced boot.

In conclusion I really could not find any major flaws to this boot, the only thing I'd say is that there is very little foot protection...so unfortunately if you kicked by a big brute on your foot, it will certainly hurt a lot but then again it says play the Messi way and he always seems to find a way to get up.

I give the F50 Adizero Messi boot a rating of

9/10 

If you'd like to join 'Team Messi' take a look at this youtube clip, while you at it check out our boot test clip too. (Videos Below)

For more information and details on the Messi boot range & collection make sure to visit the Adidas website and social network pages.

• WEB : http://www.adidas.co.za/football/
• TWITTER : https://twitter.com/adidasfootball
• FACEBOOK : https://www.facebook.com/adidasfootball

Bafana Bafana All Set for The World Cup 2014 Qualifying Match In Cape Town

Igesund: Always planning ahead

Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund has revealed there were clear reasons for his decision to choose the Cape Town Stadium as the venue for their World Cup qualifier against Central African Republic.

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South Africa take on Les Fauves in the Mother City on Saturday evening, with Igesund's side currently third in Group A, one point behind their upcoming opponents in second and a further one adrift of leaders Ethiopia.

That means a win for Bafana this weekend could take them top of the standings, leaving them in a great position to book their place at the 2014 Brazil spectacular.

"I brought the game to Cape Town because we have always had a very good feeling here," Igesund said. "In the game against Norway, the vibe was fantastic.

"The stadium will suit us, it's a nice big stadium. CAR is a team that like to play on a small ground, they want to close people down, they want to kick. They are a physical side."

The former Moroka Swallows coach added: "I think the Cape Town Stadium is ideal for our game.

"If the players play the type of football they can, we can knock the ball around, don't let them get it, play attacking football with a lot of possession, and get the crowd here behind us.

"Over the years, teams come to Cape Town and always battle. It's not easy here."

Clash Of The European Titans 

. If there's one thing we can be assured of in tonight's Champions League tie, between FC Barcelona and A.C. Milan,is attacking football. Two goals down going into the second leg would have many teams panicking. But when that team is Barca playing at the Camp Nou, the word panick seizes to exist.,
After a string of bad results in recent weeks , Barca will be lookin to return to winning ways. Not  just winning anyhow,but regaining that swagger and air of calmness and arrogance that's been synonymous with the Catalans ever since Pep Guadiola took over. Milan surprised many with an impressive performance in the first leg. Bullying Barca by not allowing them time or space to to penetrate or create any real threatening chance, that limited Barca to no more than 2 shots on target all game. Barca lacked any real imagination in the final tie, and one was left thinking Barca are in need of a Plan B. The 4-3-3 system has worked so well for Barca ever since Peps reign that many claimed that a Plan B isn't required because Plan A was just too damn good. But if this past season is anything to go by, teams are beginning to find a way of limiting Barcas dominance.

Milan and then Serie A have for many years been the 'Old Age Home' of football, but with a complete overhaul in the last two seasons Milan seem have finally built a squad that centers around the energy and enthusiasm of younger players, coupled with the maturity and guidance of the old guard.
                             Stephen El Shaarawy has definitely been Milan's stand out player this season, often single handedly sparing Milan's on numerous occasions this season. In tonight's game Milan are goin to need a almost perfect performance from not only El Shaarawy, but every player out there on the park. 

Im expecting a sold out Camp Nou for this crucial tie, because the Blaugrana faithful realise the importance of tonight's clash. Messi will of course be the man tasked with leading  Barca's dominance tonight, but personally I think the likes of Xavi and Busquests are going to play a pivotal role in how this match ends up. Being well below par for weeks now, the men in the middle are going to need to be back at their best. David Villa is another player who could have an influence in this game and I'm expecting Roura to start him up front with Messi, and Iniesta dropping back into his preferred midfield position where he can pull the strings. 

Tonight's game has all the ingredients of a memorable Champions League tie, and i hope the ref allows for a free flowing and attacking spectacle, where ultimately the only winner will be the football on display.




For more discussions about football follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/Tumelo13

What Does The Derby Mean To You

It's the biggest game in South African football, no other match in Africa can trump the meeting between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. To those that know their South African football history, this is not the original Soweto derby but it has become the biggest and most glamorous. Pirates were always the big boys in Soweto, until one of their own past players Kaizer 'Chinca Guluva' Motaung founded Kaizer Chiefs in 1970...and as we know the rest is history.

My reason for writing this blog is not to give you all a history lesson, I only want to ask what does this game mean to you?. Whether you are not fan of either side, this game is part of South Africa's culture. If you have never experienced being at a live game between these two giants, I suggest you do. The occasion is unlike any in the world, yes there are vuvuzelas...that is obvious but that is part of our South African football culture. It can either disturb you or cheer you on. I have been fortunate to watch great games around the world but none compares to this one, in my opinion this game is so special.

The derby means more to me than one team beating the other, its a moment of celebration and enjoyment. Every year this huge game comes about it makes me smile, I am thrilled with how far South African football has come. The days of segregation because of Apartheid did take some of the gloss from this game but today in 2013, we are able to show this wonderful spectacle across the world. Yes I know the games haven't always lived up to expectation but in past few seasons there have been goals, great football and as always the vibe is spectacular. With regards to the football Chiefs are top of the table, 5 points clear of their rivals Pirates. A win for the Amakhosi will surely make them believe that the glory can be reclaimed, but don't write off Pirates just yet. The two time treble winners won't want to send the Juju faithful home unhappy.

Soccer City is the place to be this Saturday, if you have a ticket enjoy this wonderful occasion...if not get to your nearest bar or invite some people for a braai and enjoy the game on television. Celebrate this game and what it means for South African football, it truly is something special.

I'll be doing a live feed from my twitter for the game, follow the build-up, team sheets and banter.

My Twitter handle is : https://twitter.com/Denisao4

Enjoy the game this weekend & Shaya vuvuzeeeeeeeeeeeelllllllaaaaa!

Dreams & Nightmares

Nike Football have put together a documentary, it shows the progression of the players selected from the very first Nike The Chance World trials. Millions around the world dream of being able to play at a professional level, but many do not know what comes with having this dream.

This is the trailer for the documentary being released on 09/03/2013

Football is a beautiful game, universal, multicultural and wonderful. It is a game that grips the entire world and from this game, many around the world wish to be like the stars they see. The hard truth is that is not as easy as some may think, to be a professional it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, sacrifice and good fortune. Millions around the world dream on the same thing, so you need to stand out to ensure that you can make it. Nike have given players who have a dream, a chance to perhaps one day reach their goals. The documentary shows the journey of the Chance final 8 boys, from making the Nike Academy to signing for professional clubs around the world.

The Chance journey has come a long way from the 2011/2012 crop to the 2012/2013 bunch. Nike have done a tremendous job in being able to give players an opportunity to reach their dreams.

I encourage all aspiring footballers to watch the documentary when it comes out on the 9th of March, it will inspire and encourage you to work harder and dream bigger. Football is a tough industry to make it, but it is not impossible to reach your dreams. You simply have to be strong enough to take the ups and downs, when you do fall down...make sure you get up higher than before.

You can watch the full documentary on the 9th of March on Nike Football's YouTube Page

• Nike Football YouTube : http://www.youtube.com/user/NikeFootball?feature=watch 

Manchester United vs Real Madrid Preview

Manchester, Mar 5: 

Jose Mourinho said the world will stop to watch tonight's Champions League match between Manchester United and Real Madrid while Sir Alex Ferguson felt it cannot get any bigger than this as his side prepare to take Ronaldo and Co at Old Trafford. Manchester United vs Real Madrid Predictions Ronaldo returns to his former club for the first time since his record breaking move in 2009. The Portuguese scored the equaliser in the first leg which ended 1-1 at the Bernabeu. Real need to score to stand any chance of progressing to the quarter-finals.


 United secured a crucial away goal in the first leg which could be the difference if Real fail to score. But Mourinho's side are coming into this game after two consecutive victories over rivals Barcelona in the space of five days. United, who were lucky not to concede more goals thanks to the brilliance of David De Gea, will back on home support and their unbeaten run in the league.
 All eye will be on Ronaldo and the United players are aware of his talent which are well suited for big occasions such as this. United supporters may pay tribute to their former star who scored 118 goals in 292 appearances but will fear the same player can knock of them off Europe. 
But the Los Blancos will fear the attacking duo Wayne Ronney and Robin van Persie. After going close to score a potential winner in the first leg, United will have a trick up their sleeve to unlock the weaknesses of Real's defence. 
Team News Phil Jones will miss the clash at Old Trafford due to an ankle problem. The 21-year old played a crucial role in midfield in the first leg. Ryan Giggs, who will play his 1000th senior match if he plays against Madrid, missed Saturday's win over Norwich but Ferguson said the veteran would play a part against Real. 
Van Persie, Patrice Evra and Danny Welbeck all suffered heavy knocks against Norwich but all returned to training ahead of today's clash. Real do not have any injury fears except Iker Casillas who is training with the squad but is unfit to play. 
The Spain keeper has been out since January with a fractured wrist. Real's attacking trio Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria and Ronaldo were benched against Barcelona but are expected to start against United. 


Trivia: *The last time these two sides met in April 2003 Manchester United won 4-3 but Real Madrid progressed 6-5 on aggregate. Ronaldo (Brazilian) scored a hat-trick. 

*These clubs have met in four previous European Cup ties with the winners going on to lift the trophy on three occasions.

 *Ryan Giggs is set to make 1000th appearance i senior football.

 Probable Lineups: Manchester United (4-4-2): De Gea-Rafael, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra-Carrick, Giggs, Nani, Young-Rooney, Van Persie. Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Lopez-Arbeloa, Pepe, Ramos, Coentrao-Alonso, Khedira-Ozil, Ronaldo, Di Maria-Benzema.

Read more at: http://news.oneindia.in/2013/03/05/ucl-manchester-united-vs-real-madrid-preview-1164150.html

Warrior Skreamer Boot Review

Last week I was given the opportunity to test out the Warrior Skreamer boots, at first I wasn't too sure what to expect. I had heard a few things here and there that Warrior who are known for sponsoring Liverpool FC. New to the football market Warrior are trying to compete with the giants of the game.

Here is a short clip of a couple of pics and drills of our test of the boot.

The first thing that struck me about the Warrior Skreamer was the color and detail, its not a color scheme seen before. Once you view it closer you realize how much detail there is, the boot looks like it could be made from prehistoric dinosaur skin. Oddly enough the boot is very light, much lighter than you'd expect from glancing at it. The lightness of the boot enhances your control, it is remarkable in the way it helps with controlling the ball in certain areas. The stud lay-out is also interesting but it helps maintain grip and traction when you are taking shots, you never feel like the boot is disrupting your ability to take shoots. Your first touch feels assured and you never a bad connection when passing the ball short or long, there is good grip as well when dribbling the ball in tight areas.

The boots are also very comfortable, usually when putting on a new pair of boots you feel rigid and limited in your movement. The warrior boots adjust very quickly, although I must say the shape of the boot at the back does make it uncomfortable after some time.

The laces are very long and may annoy certain players but Warrior claim it is to help with making the boot tighter when lacing them up. To a degree it does help but for some players laces can get in the way of what they wan to do on the field.

It is a very easy boot to quickly find a relationship with, once you forget about the brand and other things you'd think that it has been on the market for years.

Certain boots have an identity, like a recruitment for their consumer. A boot for speedsters, midfield magicians, old school hard-men or target driven strikers. I thought long and hard about which type of player would be best suited for a boot like this and I couldn't come to a conclusion. I believe that it is suitable to any type of footballer, the boot does the job and that's all you can ask for as a footballer.

I believe because of Warrior being a new brand in the game of football, it will take time for people to jump on the ship but perhaps more and more players will opt towards something new. Warrior will grow from strength to strength with their football boot development, they have certainly done a good job.

You can purchase the Warrior Skreamer boot in a pro boot or normal.

I give them a rating of

7/10

For more information about Warrior check out their website : http://www.warriorfootball.com/
As well as their other social-media tools

• Twitter : https://twitter.com/WARRIOR_FTBL  
• Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/warriorftblofficial
• Instagram : http://instagram.com/warriorfootballofficial
• Youtube : http://www.youtube.com/warriorftblofficial

Madrid's Mission

For most clubs, their achievements are usually evaluated at the end of their respective campaigns. But for the Los Blancos (Mourinho in particular), by this time next week the season could be all but over. After a disappointing campaign for Madrid, dropping points to the likes of Granada and Sevilla, their priorities have had to shift to La Decima (The Tenth European Cup) and  Copa Del Ray. Madrid were perhaps hard done by, by the powers that be, that in a space of eight days they'd have to play three massive encounters, each with their own significant importance. But this is Madrid we talking about, The Mighty Whites where nothing less than winning and playing Beautiful football is the bare minimum. That's exactly what Madrid did on Tuesday, outplaying, outsmarting, outwitting Barcelona. A performance that left many Madridistas wondering why it took so long to see the Madrid we got used to watching last season, destroying teams with quick and deadly counter attack football.





Madrid are in the Copa Del Ray Final and a certainly favorites to win the cup. But a more important few days faces the men in white. Another El Classico, this time in the league at the Santiago Bernabeu, a game that's of the least importance considering Barca's mammoth gap at the top of La Liga. But a game in which Madrid are expected to perform well at least for the fans sake. And not to forget the Champions League return tie against Manchester United.



Knowing Jose, we could see a few changes to the squad, so as not to risk an injury or fatigue to the players, ahead of what has been dubbed the Final Before The Final: Man Utd vs Real Madrid at Old Trafford. But rest assured that those that are selected will be expected to go all out for the win, and give the team an even bigger boost ahead of Tuesdays Clash.

The most important of the three and possibly the only thing that could save Mourinho's future is the tie at Old Trafford. After a tactical and 'professional' performance from both teams, Tuesdays game has all the ingredients of a mouth Watering clash. Jose cannot afford defeat, and with his hunger and Madrids obsession with La Decima you can bet there will be goal. 

This may not be the final, but this time next week we'll know if Madrid's season is a total disaster,or if Mourinho's men are at least one step close to The Holy Grail. Whatever the next few days brings, rest assured we in for one intense yet scintillating week for the Los Blancos, starting with the HUGE GAME tonight that is El Grand Clasico.

By Tumelo Khoza