No 46 – February 2006 against racism declaration Executive Committee youth teams taking care of Ex-players still wideopen UEFA Cup knockout round League first UEFA Champions against racism declaration Executive Committee youth teams taking care of Ex-players still wideopen UEFA Cup knockout round League first UEFA Champions 2.06 13 10 07 03 13 10 07 03 COVER IN THIS ISSUE Eleven questions for Geoffrey Thompson 09 With the group matches completed Ex-players taking care of youth players 10 before the winter break, the UEFA Cup UEFA Champions League resumes in February with the direct first knockout round 03 Executive Committee declaration knockout rounds. RC Strasbourg (Gaëtan UEFA Cup still wide open 07 against racism 13 Krebs, in blue) are among the teams that have qualified for the next round. Anti-doping campaign 08 News from member associations 15 PHOTO: FLASH PRESS

EditorialFair play first

The national teams were in the headlines between the end of the 2005 and the start of the new year, not for their exploits on the field but because of the draw made in in December for this summer’s World Cup finals and the draw conducted in Montreux at the end of January for the EURO 2008 qualifying competition. The national-team competitions are more popular than ever and their appeal extends way beyond the borders of the participating teams, achieving viewing figures beyond compare. With club teams frequently made up of players of a real mix of nationalities nowadays and inter- national transfers commonplace, the international players have a following that is not limited to their home country but which very often includes the fans of the foreign clubs for whom they play. In this context, national-team football and club football are closely linked, a situation from which the players benefit the most, both in terms of popularity and financial advantages – which is logical since they are the ones in the starring role. As far as the clubs and the national associations are concerned, however, matters are more complex, starting with relations between the two. The national coach’s job has become harder, as has that of the club coach in many cases, especially when his team contains players of different nationalities with duties all around the world. Furthermore, the financial stakes generated by the commercial success of football do nothing to facilitate matters or take the heat out of the discussions. Under these circumstances, it is easy to forget that football is first and fore- most a game and that its success is built on adherence to sporting values, starting with respect for the Laws of the Game and for opponents, in other words, fair play. A referee is, understandably, needed to settle disputes on the field, but off the field, is it necessary to go to court every time there is a conflict of interest between different parties in the game? Wouldn’t it be wiser and in the general interest of our game to seek agreement through dialogue, showing respect for the fans and the institutions that have contributed to football’s success and popularity?

Lars-Christer Olsson Chief Executive DE SOUZA/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

A referee is necessary on the field of play, at the heart of the action, but off the field, disagreements are better resolved through dialogue. we care about football

02 uefadirect 2.06 UEFA Champions League Action and excitement guaranteed

AC Milan’s Brazilian player Kaka breaks through the Schalke 04 defence. The Italian club now has another German club to contend with, in the shape of Bayern . SABATTINI

THE DRAW FOR THE LAST 16 IN THE 2005/06 UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE HAS ONCE team with a relatively high average AGAIN PRODUCED SOME MOUTH-WATERING FIXTURES, WITH A REPEAT age, the crucial question will be whether they have recovered from the trauma OF LAST SEASON’S CLASH BETWEEN CHELSEA AND BARCELONA ONE OF THE of last season’s final in Istanbul. For HIGHLIGHTS IN THE UNFOLDING DRAMA OF THE COMPETITION. Bayern, the question is whether the self- Ten of the 16 remaining teams are giants of European football, having confidence they have shown in the – including three each from England, won the trophy ten times between Bundesliga can be reproduced on the Italy and Spain – have already won the them. Both made few changes to their European stage. flagship European club competi- squads before the current season, tion at least once, and 12 of them except for the signing of Alberto Benfica – Liverpool also reached the last 16 last sea- Gilardino, who joined Carlo Until last year, the talk would son. Apart from that, six teams Ancelotti’s team to replace Hernan probably have been of two clubs had to get through at least one Crespo when he returned to whose glory days are long behind them. qualifying round before the group Chelsea. Apart from that, this clash Benfica dominated the European Cup phase. The home legs will be played on will pit , the leading at the start of the 1960s, as did Liverpool 21/22 February and the return legs on scorer in the competition so far with six in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The 7/8 March, except for the Inter Milan v. strikes to his name, against one of the “Reds” have been mounting their Ajax game, which will be played on 14 strongest defences, Felix Magath’s men defence of the title without any major March because of the stadium sharing having conceded only four goals. It is transfers, apart from Milan Baros, whose arrangement with AC Milan. Below is a also worth noting that Bayern and Milan attacking role has been taken over by brief overview of the matches ahead. are the only teams who can boast Fernando Morientes since January 2005. victories in the current season over Liverpool have shown major improve- Bayern Munich – AC Milan Juventus, one of the joint favourites. For ment particularly in the Premier League, This is one of several ties which the “Rossoneri”, who only just scraped where they notched up ten successive are worthy of being a final. Both clubs through the group phase and are a victories, though they are still way

03 Beto (16) and Olympique Lyonnais Ricardo Rocha (33) (Karim Nenzema, in black) are dreaming are a team with definite of helping Benfica ambitions. relive the glory years of the 1960s. FLASH PRESS

Real Madrid – Arsenal the future – perhaps next season, when This is a pairing of two teams the club moves to its new Emirates ANDRIEU/AFP/GETTY IMAGES whose recent form has been uncon- Stadium home. Progress to the next vincing in their respective domestic round would be a welcome relief for behind Chelsea, and Rafael Benitez’ leagues. In a continuing search for either team. team will face a tough task against greater stability, the nine-times Euro- Benfica. Under the leadership of former pean Cup/Champions League winners PSV Eindhoven – Dutch international Ronald Koeman, Real Madrid have parted company Olympique Lyonnais the Portuguese club is slowly regaining with coach Wanderley Luxemburgo A repeat of last year’s quarter- its old strength, incuding a victory which and appointed Juan Ramón López final meeting, in which the Dutch side sealed Manchester United’s elimination Caro as caretaker coach. The summer emerged victorious from the penalty in the group phase, and the side con- signings of Julio Baptista, Robinho and shoot-out after two fiercely contested tains technical wizards such as Petit, Sergio Ramos have not yet had the matches. ’s team never Beto, Simão and Nuno Gomes. desired effect, but this may ceases to surprise the experts, maintain- During the winter break their change with the recent addi- ing its high standards despite the exit squad has been strength- tions of Cicinho and Antonio of major players from the club. This ened by Brazilian goal- Cassano to the Real squad. summer’s departures included skipper keeper Moretto and Arsenal’s problems are of a Mark van Bommel and the strong South French winger Laurent different kind: the Korean pair Park and Lee. The team Robert. “Gunners” still qualified from an extremely difficult are still group containing AC Milan, Schalke 04 play- and Fenerbahce, and is top of the Eredi- ing visie, albeit by a narrow margin. Their attrac- opponents Lyon have the French cham- tive pionship more or less sewn up, and are football but oppo- often regarded as the dark horses in nents have increasingly this year’s Champions League. The team sussed out their style is strong in all areas, with an excellent of play, stifling it with a playing style and massive self-confidence. more physical approach. Changes to the coaching line-up (with The loss of skipper Patrick Gérard Houllier replacing Paul le Guen Vieira to Juventus has also in the summer) and to the squad (with been a major blow. That the departure of Essien and the arrival of said, Arsène Wenger has Carew) are unlikely to reduce their brought in plenty of young tal- chances of success. The French side Real Madrid’s ent with the likes of Van Persie, will be keen to make amends for their newcomer Sergio Ramos. Reyes, Fabregas and Senderos, defeat last year. and this will clearly pay dividends in Chelsea – Barcelona This fixture is certain to have neutral fans all over the world rubbing The fixtures FC Bayern München – AC Milan SL Benfica – Liverpool FC Real Madrid – Arsenal FC PSV Eindhoven – Olympique Lyonnais Chelsea FC – FC Barcelona Rangers FC – Villarreal CF Werder Bremen – Juventus

EMPICS AFC Ajax – FC Internazionale

04 uefadirect 2.06 After reaching Glasgow Rangers the final with held Inter Milan EMPICS AC Milan last year, to a draw – a good is Hernan Crespo omen perhaps? heading for another final with Chelsea? EMPICS

their hands in anticipation and is full the last 16 in 2005, which could hardly almost bound to kick off with a great of superlatives and parallels. Both clubs have been surpassed for drama and spectacle, if nothing else. But there is won their respective domestic champi- suspense. Last but not least, Barcelona one big difference from last year: onships last season by some distance, and Chelsea between them have the “Barça” will be on their home turf, the both have made the 2005/06 Cham- best three players in the world at pres- Camp Nou, for the return leg and will pions League top priority, and this sea- ent: , Lampard and Eto’o be looking for revenge. son both are again dominating their took the top three places at the FIFA national competitions – the Premier World Player Gala awards in December Rangers – Villarreal League and the Primera Liga respectively. and they have already scored a com- This is a pairing between two Each team has a young, dynamic and bined total of over 40 goals in this sea- outsiders who are also the only teams ambitious coach (José Mourinho, Frank son’s domestic championships. It is well left in the competition which have never Rijkaard), and both have grown even nigh impossible to predict a result here progressed beyond the group stages – stronger since their previous meeting in but this season’s knockout phase is so the tie should be open and competi-

Barcelona can count on the prowess of Ronaldinho as they pursue their Champions League campaign. GETTY IMAGES

05 Juventus (, right) Villarreal’s are on form, but Bayern Munich Hector Font (Ze Roberto) showed them that they (centre) are also a force to be reckoned with. penetrates Manchester United’s defence. EMPICS

ing spirit. Despite lying an unaccus- Champions League (12 goals in six games) tomed fourth in the Scottish champi- and the Bundesliga (46 goals and in onship and trailing city rivals Celtic by third place after 17 games) and can cause 17 points, Rangers may deliver the problems for any opponents with the goods if they start well in the home leg striking duo of Klose and Klasnic and the at Ibrox. midfield strategists Micoud, Borowski and Frings. Thomas Schaaf’s team must BEHNE/BONGARTS/GETTY IMAGES BEHNE/BONGARTS/GETTY Werder Bremen - Juventus aim to put pressure on the Italians and tive. Managed by Chilean coach Manuel A contest in which the roles not make the same defensive mistakes Pellegrini, Villarreal have coped remark- appear clearly defined at first sight. Since as they did against Lyon in the first ably well with the double challenge of the start of the 2005/06 season, Fabio knockout round last year (when they lost the Champions League and domestic Capello’s team has made a strong 10-2 on aggregate). championship, having qualified in style impression. In Serie A so far, they have from a tough Group D and once again bagged 49 from a possible 54 points, Ajax – Internazionale contesting the top places in the Spanish are extremely strong in all departments, In this tie there is also a clear first division. Interestingly, the big names and, moreover, completed the transfer favourite: now that the four matches in the team are players who struggled of the summer with the signing of behind closed doors – imposed on them to make an impression at other top . Czech star Pavel Nedved after the incidents in last year’s quarter- clubs but are now positively flourishing. seems to be over his dip in form, and final against local rivals AC Milan – are The South American trio of Riquelme, even the lengthy absence of keeper over and done with, Inter will be highly Sorin und Forlan have amazed their for- Gianluigi Buffon, who should be ready motivated for the return leg in front mer employers. Rangers, on the other for action again soon, has barely had of their home crowd. Apart from their hand, who are strong performers at an impact. The “Old Lady” is certainly three signings from Real Madrid – Luis home, have talented internationals from one of the hot favourites for the title. Figo, Santiago Solari and Walter Samuel a dozen different countries in their Werder Bremen, on the other hand, – much is expected from goalkeeper ranks, including Slovenian Dado Prso reached the last 16 with a mere seven Júlio César, one of the new generation and the Dane Peter Løvenkrands. Even points, but richly deserved their success of talented Brazilian goalkeepers. In so, Alex McLeish’s team has a typically with their attractive style of play. The Serie A, Inter have slightly improved on British style of play, with a direct, un- North Germans have provided clear last season’s position, lying in third place complicated approach and a great fight- proof of their goal-scoring ability in the after 18 matches, just behind local rivals AC Milan, though still some distance behind Juventus. If ’s men are able to establish a good rhythm and key man Adriano stays fit, the “Nerazzurri” are capable of anything. Ajax qualified from their (relatively easy) group without difficulty, but for the moment things are not running smoothly in the national league, with Danny Blind’s team well behind the leaders. The fact that the club’s best players are con- stantly being lured away (with Rafael van der Vaart’s departure for Hamburg the most recent example) certainly does not help. The current team is extremely young, and even stalwarts such as the Czech Tomas Galasek, the South African Steven Pienaar and the “homegrown”

Tomas Galasek’s Wesley Sneijder can be expected to get experience will be even better. invaluable for Ajax’s

young players. EMPICS Frédéric Wyler

06 uefadirect 2.06 Despite this goal The Evoluon centre by Vagner Love in Eindhoven. and victory over Levski , CSKA did not make it past the group stage. MARMUR/AFP/GETTY IMAGES Draws in the cities hosting UEFA Cup the finals Everything still to play for The draw for the last 16 of THE UNDOUBTED ATTRACTION OF THE UEFA CUP IS THAT the UEFA Cup was made in Nyon on 16 December: THE CONTEST IS STILL WIDE OPEN. Winner match 7 – Winner match 14 Winner match 8 – Winner match 1 Title-holders CSKA years, seven different nations have Winner match 2 – Winner match 11 Moscow, who came off worse lifted the trophy, and as was the case Winner match 4 – Winner match 15 in a tough Group F against last season, 15 different associations Winner match 3 – Winner match 12 2003/04 finalists Marseille and are still in contention. Remarkably, Winner match 6 – Winner match 10 against Levski Sofia and Portugal and Scotland no longer fea- Winner match 9 – Winner match 16 Heerenveen, have already been ture in the competition, despite Winner match 13 – Winner match 5 eliminated. In the last seven still having teams in the last 16 of The matches will be played on the Champions League (Benfica and 9 March (first legs) and 15/16 March 1. PFC Litex Lovech – RC Strasbourg Rangers). The cities of und (return legs). 2. FC Thun – Hamburger SV still have two representatives To get the host cities in the mood 3. OSC Lille – Shakhtar Donetsk each: Real Betis and Sevilla, Rapid for the finals well in advance of the 4. Udinese Calcio – RC Lens and Steaua, respectively. France has actual event, the draws for the quarter- 5. Lokomotiv Moskva – Sevilla FC finals and semi-finals will be made the most teams (five) in the last 32, 6. VfB Stuttgart – Middlesbrough FC there. The UEFA Champions League draw 7. Real Betis – AZ Alkmaar followed by (four), Spain takes place at Paris city hall on 10 March, 8. Rosenborg BK – Zenit St-Petersburg and Italy (three each). and the UEFA Cup draw at the Evoluon 9. FC Schalke 04 – RCD Espanyol Among the clubs still in con- centre in Eindhoven on 17 March. 10. SK Slavia Praha – US Palermo tention, only four have already won a 11. Artmedia – Levski Sofia UEFA trophy (Hamburg, Schalke 04, 12. Hertha BSC Berlin – Rapid Bucuresti Steaua Bucharest and Olympique de 13. Club Brugge KV – AS Roma Marseille). 14. FC Basel – AS Monaco The home legs will be played 15. SC Heerenveen – Steaua Bucuresti on 15/16 February, with the return legs 16. Bolton Wanderers – Olymp. de Marseille scheduled on 23 February. AFP

Paris city hall.

The schedule for the final stages of the UEFA Champions League is as follows: 28/29 March: quarter-finals, first legs 4/5 April: quarter-finals, return legs 18/19 April: semi-finals, first legs 25/26 April: semi-finals, return legs 17 May: final at the Stade de France in Paris-St-Denis UEFA Cup 30 March: quarter-finals, first legs 6 April: quarter-finals, return legs 20 April: semi-finals, first legs 27 April: semi-finals, return legs

MIHAILESCU/AFP/GETTY IMAGES 10 May: final at the PSV stadium Steaua Bucharest faced a test away to Heerenveen. in Eindhoven

07 The doping awareness leaflet.

Anti-doping campaign Health and career first

UEFA’S ANTI-DOPING UNIT IS STEPPING UP ITS ACTION, WITH ADDED EMPHASIS ON PREVENTION, THROUGH MORE

INTENSIVE COMMUNICATION, FOR EXAMPLE, AND TAKING OTHER MEASURES, SUCH AS EXTENDING DOPING CONTROLS

AND INCREASING THE NUMBER OF DOPING CONTROL OFFICERS.

2005 was a year of intensifi- to warn the players about the risks of possible in samples taken during out- cation. By creating a specialised anti- doping on their health and careers. of-competition doping controls. doping unit, the UEFA administration Every possible effort was made demonstrated its desire to be more pro- to ensure that the message got across, What’s new? active in this field by reaching the with the sessions being interpreted into Since the seminar for doping players more directly to protect them. the languages of the participating teams control officers held in May last year, five where necessary and supported by new officers have passed their exams, Forceful communication videos and strong messages from foot- bringing the number of UEFA doping Published in seven languages, ball personalities such as , control officers up to 31. 25,000 awareness leaflets were dis- , Ronaldinho, Frank A confidential extranet com- tributed before the season to the clubs Rijkaard and Paolo Maldini. munication system has also been set up involved in the UEFA club competitions Building on this positive first which allows the doping control officers as well as to UEFA’s 52 member asso- experience, sessions of this kind will be to access all the information they need ciations. extended this year to the European Via its website, UEFA has Under-17 Championship final round in Tests in figures launched an extensive information Luxembourg, the Under-19 final round Over 750 players were tested campaign. A new anti-doping page has in Poland, the Under-21 tournament in the second half of 2005 (all com- been created with information on the in Portugal and the Women’s Under-19 petitions combined), 550 of whom anti-doping regulations, the list of pro- event in Switzerland. were tested in-competition and 211 hibited substances and methods, in- Future plans include the devel- out-of-competition. Five players and out-of-competition procedures opment of a special programme for tested positive and disciplinary meas- and controls, therapeutic use exemption young players in the 13-17 age range, ures taken against them. In one (TUE) forms and other useful anti- whose coaches would be responsible case, where a player had tested posi- doping information. for much of the awareness work. tive for anabolic steroids, the UEFA At last year’s European Under-19 Control & Disciplinary Body suspend- Championship final round in Belfast, Testing programme ed the player for 18 months and sessions were organised with the eight In the 2005/06 season, the had its decision upheld by the UEFA participating teams for all players, number of in-competition tests will be Appeals Body. coaches, doctors and officials as a way increased to ensure that at least 20% of club competition matches are cov- for their assignments (player lists and ered. Aside from these regular tests in photos, stadium access information, pro- all UEFA competitions (women’s football cedures, regulations, etc.) and futsal included), out-of-competition In the UEFA Champions League, tests are also conducted. The doping doping control officers can now count control programme for the UEFA Cham- on the assistance of assistant doping pions League teams is running smoothly. control officers appointed by UEFA who Conscious of their responsibilities, the prepare the material, guard the doping clubs are cooperating and providing control station and take the necessary the UEFA administration with a “where- measures to guarantee the players’ pri- abouts form” every week. Up to ten vacy and comfort. players per team can be tested. Spot Finally, the new list of prohib- tests are welcomed by the players, who ited substances and methods issued by are often more relaxed at training ses- WADA that has been in force since sions than during matches. The samples 1 January has been communicated to all are analysed by laboratories approved the national associations and to the by the World Anti-Doping Agency clubs still involved in UEFA competitions

Prevention by information. UEFA (WADA) and EPO is tested for as far as by circular letter.

08 uefadirect 2.06 GEOFFREY THOMPSON England Member of the UEFA 23.8.1945 Executive Committee since 2000 Vice-president since 2002 Chairman of Magistrate PORTRAIT

Eleven questions for the Executive Committee members Geoffrey

OUR SERIES DEVOTED TO THE MEMBERS OF THE UEFA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CONTINUES WITH THE FOURTH VICE-PRESIDENT, GEOFFREY THOMPSON. Thompson

Your first contact with football? meeting, to go to Russia to interview some or deceit. It implies service not for reward Playing football with my friends players on behalf of the committee. Alberto but because service in itself brings its own in our gardens and on the street. I remember laughed when I asked if the Trans-Siberian reward. my father taking me to my first football Express had stopped running!! And finally humour – the quality match in the early 1950s to watch Sheffield Defender or attacker? that makes endurable the unendurable United versus Liverpool in the old Football Attacker, …goalscorer, …in the and puts everything into proportion and League Division Two. Liverpool had a famous ’ mould. perspective. Scottish international player called “Billy However, when it comes to pro- Liddell”. I have childhood memories of the tecting the game I’m very much a defender. club sometimes being referred to as I have always believed in the power of “Liddellpool”. football and the influence for good that it First experience of UEFA? can have upon us all. In 1983, UEFA’s Under-18 tourna- Each participant has a tremendous ment was held in England, with some group responsibility to leave for the next gene- matches played in the North Midlands where ration a game that is conscious of its impact I was on the local organising committee for on society, is honest to itself and its roots. The FA. I met for the first time Senes Erzik, After all, nobody gets lost on a straight road. who was a member of the UEFA Youth We give you a ball, what do Committee, and we began a friendship that you do with it? has continued to this day. Control it, look up and shoot. A player? A town? Bobby Charlton, who was an Interlaken, between two lakes integral part of the England team which won and overlooking the Swiss Alps. A veritable the World Cup in 1966. He was a forward paradise on earth. who knew how to use both feet effectively Detective story or economic and scored some tremendous goals from treatise? outside the penalty area. He has continued Certainly a detective story. I like his involvement in the game throughout criminal intrigue. I try to work out ‘‘who his life and is a wonderful ambassador for done it”. the sport. Sea or mountains? A memorable match? Inevitably mountains. There have been several: Manchester A dream? United winning the UEFA Champions League That UEFA will continue to be 2-1 against Bayern Munich; England’s victory governed by people of integrity. We live over Germany 5-1 and of course Liverpool’s today in a world which increasingly believes achievement last year. But the most memo- in things that you may touch and see. rable match in my life so far has to be And the big joke is that these things hardly England winning the World Cup at Wembley matter at all. in 1966. All the things that really matter A memory linked to a UEFA are precisely the ones that you cannot touch activity? and see: humour, courage, loyalty, stead- My first involvement on a UEFA fastness and above all integrity. Integrity of committee was on the Control and Discipli- mind is the quality without which all the nary Committee, chaired by the remarkable others are diminished. It means setting your and distinguished late Dr Alberto Barbé. sights ever higher; it implies setting any new Dr Barbé refused to travel by air, having lost idea or venture against the measure of your a close colleague in an aircrash. I remember own principles, and resolutely turning away

being asked by him, towards the end of a from any form of shabbiness, unkindness PHOTOS: UEFA

09 Horst Hrubesch Arne Friedrich Bernd Stöber is in charge (left), one works with of Germany’s of Germany’s the Under-17s Under-19s. talented as an education young players. specialist. ROSE/BONGARTS/GETTY IMAGES ROSE/BONGARTS/GETTY CHRISTIANS/BONGARTS/ GETTY IMAGES

HEIMANN/BONGARTS/GETTY IMAGES HEIMANN/BONGARTS/GETTY German Football

Ex-players guideAssociation the young

MANY FOOTBALLERS BECOME COACHES WHEN THEY RETIRE. NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS LIKE THEM TO COACH THEIR

SENIOR NATIONAL TEAMS. HOWEVER, NOT SO MANY GO ON TO COACH THEIR NATIONAL YOUTH TEAMS.

There are a few famous exam- used to coach the Under-18s. Unlike his aging 10,000 for youth internationals. ples, such as Gentile in Italy. The DFB colleagues, he earned his fame through Niels Barnhofer, member of the DFB’s (German Football Association) has, for coaching, although he was a youth inter- communication team, explains: “We carry several years, followed a policy of national before a serious injury forced him out promotional activities before the appointing former internationals to to change direction prematurely. matches. As well as sending out detailed these posts: Dieter Eilts looks after the The personal experience of these documentation about the match and the Under-21s, Ulli Stielike the Under-20s former star players gives them a special stakes involved, we offer the local press and Under-18s and Horst Hrubesch the insight, while their names are an attrac- interviews with these former international Under-19s. Before taking over Bayer tion for the youngsters as well as for the players.” The newspapers are also able Leverkusen’s first team, Michael Skibbe press and spectators, with crowds aver- to interview the youngsters, particularly those who come from the region where the match is taking place. The DFB has not recruited these big names simply because of their fame or the admiration that their past achieve- ments can generate among their pro- tégés. They all harbour genuine qualities as coaches. In any case, the studies required to obtain a coaching certificate are particularly arduous in Germany, which is why many German coaches are successful abroad: Otto Rehhagel and Christoph Daum are just two examples.

Education specialists On the other hand, in order to help the youngest players, who are still in the midst of puberty and need close supervision and guidance, the DFB also employs qualified education specialists: Bernd Stöber (U17), Paul Schomann (U16) and Jörg Daniel (U15). Although they all used to play the game to a high standard – goalkeeper Daniel played in a European Cup Winners’ Cup final with Fortuna Düsseldorf – they are mainly known for their work with the regional associations. Dieter Eilts moved from the They understand the youngsters, speak field to the bench, from where EMPICS

he coaches the Under-21s. EMPICS their language and are very familiar

10 uefadirect 2.06 Bastian Lukas Schweinsteiger Podolski is one fends off of Bayern French star Munich’s Claude young Makelele hopefuls. in a friendly match. SIMON/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

with the breeding grounds for talented players all over the country. The DFB has also developed other projects to stimulate the emergence EMPICS of young players. In preparation for the World Cup on home soil, it launched the Team 2006 project in September 2002, Ulli Stielike: “Youngsters when Rudi Völler was in charge of the senior national team. This national B team are more receptive” includes players over 21 who have not You are well known and very experienced. How is your experience yet broken into the A team and who useful to you in your work with the youngsters? would lose several valuable years without I have experienced lots of things first hand, I haven’t learned this “bridge”. This initiative has enabled about them from other people. It is a definite advantage. Also, the best players such as Kevin Kuranyi, Arne experience I can share is that which I am gaining with the team over the Friedrich, Fabian Ernst, Timo Hildebrand long term. For example, if the team is trailing 2-0 and has already been in and Tim Borowski to gain more experi- the same situation before, the players are ence and keep their place in the inter- more able to deal with it. The concept is national set-up. Few nations still have a easier for them to understand. B team. Team 2006 has therefore crossed Are the players impressed by your swords with its Austrian, Swiss, Scottish CV and are they more willing to accept and Russian equivalents on dates set your advice? aside in the international calendar, but I finished playing in 1988, just not necessarily against the same coun- when my players were being born. In some tries that the A team has faced. The DFB countries, such as Spain, your status alone is currently talking about prolonging can command respect. In Germany, you this experiment beyond 2006. have to continually prove yourself and Also in 2002, the DFB launched a convince people. My playing career gave vast youth support programme, investing me a good way in, but after that it’s the EUR 10 million per year. This programme quality of your work that counts most. involves 22,000 11- to 17-year olds and In addition, my players are already 17 more than 1,000 coaches throughout Ger- or 18 and fairly well into their football many. In addition, teams in the regional careers. I should add that I take into league are required to field a certain num- account the players’ character as much ber of local players and a Youth Bundes- as their sporting ability when picking liga has been created for talented young the team. players. They are thus able to play in You are involved in promoting high-level matches and learn how to cope youth football at national level. with pressure. The Youth Bundesliga Does that increase your workload? involves sides from the Bundesliga clubs Other people spend a lot of time and the top lower division teams. It is in aeroplanes or cars. Many other jobs are divided into three geographical zones, much harder. I really can’t complain. North/North-East, West and South/South- What are the main differences be- West, so as to avoid excessive journey tween the youngsters and professionals? times for these youngsters, who are still Young people are much more busy with their studies. inquisitive, receptive and able to learn. Finally, for a long time now, As time goes by, you develop your own the Bundesliga clubs have been required ideas. It becomes more difficult to change to run their own coaching academies, your ways. UEFA which have produced many talented You have already coached senior teams. You have been working players, such as Bastian Schweinsteiger for the DFB for eight years. Would you like to coach professionals again? (Bayern) and Lukas Podolski (1. FC Yes. My contract comes to an end at the same time as the next Cologne). World Cup. I miss the day-to-day work and being on the pitch. I only see Pascale Pierard my players a few days each month. P.P.

11 After its France experience as qualified for a venue the final for EURO 2004, round after the Braga stadium a closely will now play fought host to matches encounter in the Under-21 against final round. England. GETTY IMAGES VERHAEGEN/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

transition of the final round from even to odd years. It will also set a new record for Meetings participation since 51 of UEFA’s member associations have entered (compared with 48 for 2004-06). and other activities Change of date for the Under-21 Under-21 final round final round The Executive Committee also in Portugal had to designate the host association for the final round of the current edition, for ON 15 DECEMBER, THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HELD ITS SIXTH which the remaining contenders are Italy, AND FINAL MEETING OF THE YEAR IN NYON, WITH THE UEFA PRESIDENT, the title-holders, plus Germany, Denmark, LENNART JOHANSSON, IN THE CHAIR. France, the Netherlands, Portugal, Serbia and Montenegro, and . The Por- The committee’s initial focus Switzerland. Also in connection with tuguese Football Federation were given was the financial outlook, in particular EURO 2008, the Executive Committee the nod to stage the final round this year. strategic aspects such as the distribution approved the procedure for the quali- The Executive Committee also agreed to of revenue and the duration of the fying competition draw, the teams being the final tournament being brought for- financial plan. divided into seven pots according to ward by two days. It will therefore take After the report of the CEO, the results obtained in the qualifying place from 23 May to 4 June, which will Lars-Christer Olsson, on recent activities matches for EURO 2004 and the 2006 enable the final to be played on a Sunday. and topical issues, and following reports World Cup. The draw for the final round will take on the Executive Committee working The draw procedure for the place in Porto on 8 February. group meetings and the tasks performed qualifying phase of the next European Since the host associations for by their members, the Committee was Under-21 Championship was also the final round will be designated in informed about the progress of prepara- approved. This will be a somewhat dif- future before the start of the qualifying tions for EURO 2008, which in general ferent edition since it will be played over competition, the Executive Committee are on schedule in both and a single season (2006/07) to allow the has already designated the Dutch FA as hosts of the 2007 final round. It also confirmed that the host nation, which Homage to the winning clubs qualifies automatically, would not partici- pate in the qualifying phase, in line with the principle in force in other UEFA competitions. The Executive Committee also decided on the host associations for the final round of the European Women’s Under-19 Championship. In 2008, France will be the host country, while in 2009 it will be the turn of Belarus.

Testing a referee communication system The meeting also dealt with refereeing matters and in particular a UEFA referee communication system. Tests will As part of the commemorations for the 50th anniversary of its be conducted, in agreement with the flagship club competition, UEFA took the opportunity of the draw for the International FA Board, and if the results UEFA Champions League first knockout round to honour the 21 clubs are positive, the system might be intro- whose names have been engraved on the trophy over the years, presenting duced for Champions League and UEFA a commemorative plaque to their representatives. Cup matches.

12 uefadirect 2.06 A communication system for referees is being put to the test. FLASH PRESS Report from Adopting a firm stance against racism At the end of its December meeting, the Executive Committee Brussels issued a declaration in which it reiterated its categorical condemnation of all forms of racism and reaffirmed its “zero tolerance” policy towards Last November, UEFA and any kind of discrimination within European football. the European launched The Executive Committee reiter- a Written Declaration on Tackling ated that the fight against racism is a Racism in Football. In an unprece- matter for everyone involved in foot- dented act of cooperation between ball and it called upon the members of the European football family to take the two organisations, the Declara- action. tion calls on all parts of the football In particular, it called on referees, family to strengthen their fight delegates and coaches to monitor against racism. By the end of 2005, closely the conduct of players and sup- more than 200 MEPs had signed porters and fulfil their duty to punish the Declaration. and denounce all forms of racism inside and outside football stadiums by If half of the European Par- taking the measures which they are liament – at least 367 MEPs – sign authorised to do. the Declaration before 1 March The Executive Committee also 2006, the Declaration will become urged the national associations, leagues a formal Resolution of the Euro- and clubs to implement UEFA’s plan pean Parliament. This would be only and best practice across Europe. It also asked supporters to condemn and the fourth Declaration in the his- report any expression of racism they tory of the Parliament to have won encounter in football. majority support. It emphasised the excellent work Claude Moraes done by organisations such as the FARE was the driving force network and drew attention to the anti-racism conference to be held in behind the initiative.

GETTY IMAGES Barcelona on 1 February. Almost a year ago, the British Socialist The Executive Committee looked the fact that football’s popularity is con- MEP approached at the international match calendar for stantly growing, thus enabling sub- UEFA’s Brussels Office the years in which a European Champion- stantial revenue to be gained for Euro- with the proposal ship final round is held. In reply to FIFA’s pean football as a whole. for a text, which question as to whether it would be desir- UEFA would be free to improve and able to bring forward the closing date of ■ On 12 December in Nyon, refine. Nine months later, the Dec- the domestic competitions in order to the Club Competitions Committee, laration saw the light of day. give an extra week’s rest to the selected chaired by Friedrich Stickler, continued players, the committee considered that its preparation of the club competi- “Football is not the cause of this measure, which is applied for the tion regulations for the 2006/07 sea- racism, but it is in our stadiums and World Cup finals, was not necessary for son, which will be submitted to the on our pitches that some of the the European Championship final rounds Executive Committee in the spring. most visible and violent abuse takes since no long-distance travel was involved It also discussed matters such as the place,” says Mr Moraes. “We should and the competition was shorter. official matchball for all Champions see this as an opportunity. The mas- Having opened the meeting with League matches, hospitality facilities, sive popularity of football presents financial matters, the Executive Commit- and the possibility of restricting access tee concluded the proceedings by looking to the UEFA Cup to the winners of do- us with the means to reach millions at certain economic aspects, regarding mestic cup competitions (and no of people and, we must hope, to pro- the sale of UEFA competition rights and longer to the finalists). mote tolerance and understanding. ➜

13 Steven Gerrard in action against ➜ By winning hearts and minds on Deportivo Saprissa. the terraces and on the pitch, we can make a crucial break- through in the bigger battle to

free society of racism.” KITAMURA/AFP

Below are the main parts It also took a decision on the In the initial phase staged of the Declaration. distribution of some 34 million Swiss on 11 and 12 December, the quarter- francs of additional revenue to the clubs finals saw Al Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) “The European participating in the 2005/06 Champions beat Al Ahly (Egypt) and Deportivo Parliament: League. Saprissa (Costa Rica) qualify at the It opted for dividing the total expense of Sydney FC (Australia). The 1. Strongly condemns all forms amount into two parts: half as an addi- European and South American repre- of racism at football matches, tional qualification premium (i.e. more sentatives entered the competition at both on and off the field, than 500,000 Swiss francs for each the semi-final stage and justified of the 32 clubs) and the other half as their favourites’ tag, with Liverpool a supplement to the “market pool”. beating Deportivo Saprissa 3-0 and the 2. Commends the excellent The clubs will receive the additional Brazilian club FC São Paulo securing work that various organisa- money after the end of the season, a 3-2 victory after a tough battle with tions, including UEFA and when the final accounts have been Al Ittihad. FARE, have done in tackling drawn up. In the final played in the these problems, International Stadium in Yokohama on 18 December, Liverpool tried every- 3. Calls on all those with a high Liverpool in the final thing to equalise after Mineiro opened in Japan profile in football, above all the score just before the half-hour Despite the change in format, mark. But there was to be no happy end players and coaches, to speak Liverpool FC left Tokyo empty-handed for the English club this time and São out regularly against racism, once again: after two defeats in the Paulo were able to cling on to their European/South American Cup, in 1981 one-goal lead until the final whistle, 4. Calls on national football against Flamengo and in 1984 against thereby adding a world title to the two associations, leagues, clubs, Independiente, the English club lost victories they obtained in Tokyo in players’ unions and supporters’ out again in the final of the FIFA Club 1992 and 1993 at the expense of two groups to apply UEFA best World Championship. other prestigious European clubs, practice, such as the UEFA Ten- The second edition of the FIFA FC Barcelona and AC Milan. Point Plan of Action, Club World Championship in Tokyo, which Deportivo Saprissa secured continued the traditional duel between third place in the tournament with a the champions of Europe and South 3-2 victory over Al Ittihad. FC Sydney 5. Calls on UEFA and all other America in a new form, brought together finished fifth as a result of their 2-1 competition organisers in six continental champions. win over Al Ahly. Europe to ensure that referees have the option, according to clear and strict guidelines, to stop or abandon matches in the event of serious racist abuse,

6. Calls on UEFA and all other competition organisers in Europe to consider the option of imposing sporting sanctions on national football associa- tions and clubs whose support- ers or players commit serious racist offences, including the option to remove persistent offenders from their compe- São Paulo’s NOGI/AFP goalkeeper titions.” Rogerio Ceni was invincible against Liverpool. 14 uefadirect 2.06 final as well as in the Belgian side that finished the 1986 World Cup finals in fourth place, and, at club level, in the European Champion Clubs’ Cup final with News FC Bruges and twice in the UEFA Cup from member associations final, once with Anderlecht and once with FC Bruges. As a coach, he has managed several prestigious Belgian clubs, including Anderlecht, Standard Liège, FC Bruges, In 2002, he returned to Austria, where RWD Molenbeek and KAA Gent. He has AUSTRIA record-breaking champions SK Rapid also worked abroad as coach of FSV Mainz secured his services following the departure 05 in Germany and FC Twente Enschede Josef Hickersberger of Lothar Matthäus. Hickersberger led the in the Netherlands. team from the bottom third of the table named new national coach Despite having all the qualities back to the top, culminating in the champi- for success, the new national coach has As the new year got under way, onship title and qualification for the 2005/06 a tricky task ahead of him: to regain the Josef Hickersberger took over as coach of UEFA Champions League. prestige of the national team, with the the Austrian national team. The 57-year- Ronald Gollatz first objective being to qualify for EURO old moves into the national coach’s seat 2008. from SK Rapid Vienna, whom he took into Self-confidence is another of this season’s UEFA Champions League. René Vandereycken’s great attributes. It is not his first experience in this BELGIUM “As far as I’m concerned, playing against position, having already served as head strong teams isn’t necessarily a draw- coach from 1988 to 1990. The highlight René Vandereycken back,” he said in his first interview after of that first era was reaching the 1990 accepting the job, when asked what he World Cup finals in Italy. Hickersberger succeeds Aimé Anthuenis thought about Belgium being put into recalls: “The opening match in Rome in René Vanderey- the fourth pot for the EURO 2008 quali- particular, at the Olympic Stadium, against cken was introduced as fying draw. the hosts made a lasting impression on the new coach of the Bel- Belgium are thirsty for revenge me. I definitely want to experience the gian national team on 23 and looking forward to the first (friendly) incredible feeling and atmosphere of December at the head- match under the new coach’s orders on quarters of the Belgian FA 1 March. following a meeting of David Deldicq

the executive committee PHOTO NEWS the previous day. His contract runs from 1 January 2006 to 30 June 2008. His appointment came as no sur- BOSNIA AND prise since his name had already been men- HERZEGOVINA tioned for a while as the main contender to take over from Aimé Anthuenis. Successful season René Vandereycken is a prominent As always at the end of the sea- figure in Belgian football. He has proved son, the leadership of the Football Federa- himself in numerous clubs, both as a player tion of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FF BHZ) GEPA-PICTURES and as a coach. evaluated the success and financial work Josef Hickersberger. He is described as a perfectionist of the federation. Munib Usanovic, general with a strong personality, articulate, and pas- secretary, concluded that the last season such a tournament again.” And he will sionate about his work. He is a coach who had been successful and that there had have that opportunity in 2008, when Aus- protects his players but without stepping been a great improvement in administra- tria and Switzerland co-host EURO 2008: into the realms of friendship. He also fulfils tive work during this last period. “The uni- “My main reason for absolutely wanting the four requirements for being national fied FF BHZ had been established thanks to be national coach again was to play in coach: he’s Belgian, bilingual, licensed by to the help of UEFA and FIFA in 2002 to the European Championship on home the national coaching academy, and cur- cover the whole territory of Bosnia and soil. It’s a fantastic challenge for any coach rently under no contract with a club. Herzegovina. Though still a young organi- and, naturally, for me too,” he explained. Wherever he has been, he has sation, it was making great strides forward After this first stint as Austria’s left his players with fond memories. His from one season to the next in all fields. national coach, Hickersberger worked in appointment has also met with the unani- Every aspect of football in our country was the German and Austrian Bundesliga, mous approval of the current “Red Devils” fully under control. The committees had before spending seven years in the Middle as well as among his fellow coaches at been doing a great job. The federation had East, where he coached in Bahrain and national level. had some problems with the licensing pro- Qatar, making the national championships As a player, René Vandereycken ject, as a result of which its most success- one-horse races with his respective clubs. played in the 1980 European Championship ful teams, FK Zeljeznicar and FK Sarajevo,

15 UEFA would continue this year, with one opportunities, so we are likely to begin of the main subjects on the agenda being tackling problems that stem from bore- the FF BHZ constitution and its adjustment dom and lack of direction too. to the FIFA and UEFA statutes. “We also want to give as many The FF BHZ’s top executive also young people as possible the confidence declared that anti-violence measures were and motivation to gain football coaching to be taken and cooperation with fans and leadership qualifications so they can promoted with a view to ensuring a peace- go out and work in these areas, many of ful and friendly atmosphere in and which include large ethnic minority com- around stadiums. munities within them.” Fuad Krvavac The FA have secured £1.1 mil- F. KRVAVAC lion from UEFA and £3.4 million from the The national team. British Government for this three-year ENGLAND programme. could not take part in the UEFA Cup The community football workers because they did not meet the licensing A project for young people will work closely with schools and local requirements. But these two clubs were Football is being used to tackle a clubs, and have four priorities: now close to fulfilling the licensing terms wide range of social problems in some of ■ To get young people into for the next season. England’s most deprived communities as football “The national team had also done The FA’s new £4.5 million HatTrick project ■ To develop sustainable oppor- well, only just missing out on the play-offs for young people swings into action. tunities for children through FA Charter for the World Cup finals. Considering the Nineteen Community Football Standard clubs conditions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, third Workers have been employed by The FA ■ To develop leaders and coaches place in the group was a very good result. to work in areas that suffer from multiple from within the communities The federation was hoping that it would deprivation: poor health, housing, edu- ■ To support the government be a case of third time lucky in the quali- cation, and high incidences of crime and target of providing two hours of PE in fying competition for EURO 2008,” Munib drug abuse. schools every week. Usanovic said. “This is a hugely exciting and Alex Stone On 30 November, the national rewarding project which demonstrates team of Bosnia and Herzegovina had cele- how The FA can support the Government brated ten years of existence. The team in key areas,” said FA Chairman and UEFA had played its first match in Tirana, Alba- vice-president Geoffrey Thompson. FINLAND nia. Achieving third place in Group 7 in FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick the qualifying competition for the 2006 visited South Kilburn in London just before Women’s football on a high World Cup had been its greatest success Christmas to see for himself how success- Finland’s success in Women’s to date. ful the initial stages of the projects have EURO 2005 has given the women’s game The development of the federa- been. He also heard how two local chil- a real boost. Two home fixtures in the tion’s educational programme was also dren had recently been invited for trials Women’s World Cup qualifying competi- highlighted in the general secretary’s press at QPR since taking part in the after- tion witnessed new record audiences conference. The first intake of students school club. during the autumn. The final match of for the UEFA Pro coaching licence had “We are all aware of the increas- last year, against Spain at the completed the second term of their course. ing concerns about obesity in young Olympic Stadium, was followed by 5,892 They had had the privilege of being tutored people,” said FA Head of Football Develop- spectators and watched live on national by famous professionals of the likes of ment Kelly Simmons. “It follows on that television by 300,000 viewers. Miljan Miljanic, Vahid Halilhodzic and as young people become more active and The Finnish FA’s executive com- Zdenko Verdenik. Once they had success- involved in leadership and coaching fully completed their training, the coaches mittee is trying to further develop the would be licensed to work at any club in women’s game by bidding to host the the world. Women’s EURO 2009 final tournament. The general secretary also an- Women’s head coach Michael Käld nounced an interesting futsal tournament. welcomed the decision: UEFA had invited the FF BHZ to initiate “I hope we get the tourna- a project against racism, but considering ment, although the bid alone is having a that nationalism is more prevalent in Bosnia positive impact and further promoting and Herzegovina, it had been decided to women’s football. There is a new crop of organise a tournament under the banner young players coming through the ranks, of “football against nationalism”. Teams so hosting the Women’s EURO 2009 of journalists, artists, international organi- would set them a great goal.” sations, government and religious commu- Michael Käld himself has received nities would take part. many awards after reaching the semi-

The excellent cooperation estab- THE FA finals in England in June 2005. One of lished between the FF BHZ and FIFA and Brian Barwick visits South Kilburn. the most cherished nominations came

16 uefadirect 2.06 Japanese FA, Edgar Obertüfer of the Swiss elite round as runners-up. The Under-19s’ FA, Emanuel Shaffer from the Israeli asso- Group 3, which was hosted here the fol- ciation, Michail Kassabov from the Bulgarian lowing week, saw Israel maintain a 100 FA and Argentine association president per cent record, while qualified

GETTY IMAGES Julio Grondona. from the runners-up spot. Maximilian Geis Avraham Grant’s reign as Israel’s national-team coach has come to an end after he announced his decision to step down after four years in charge. Grant, who GREECE led Israel to an unprecedented unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign, failed to Four new sports centres guide Israel to a major tournament in two During November and December, attempts and will be replaced by Dror Women’s football is enjoying a boom. within the framework of the development Kashtan. of football in all regions, the Hellenic Foot- from the Finnish Sports Journalists’ Asso- ball Federation, in the presence of its pres- ciation, which named him Coach of the ident, Vassilis Gagatsis, inaugurated four Year for 2005. sports centres (complexes). Sami Terävä On 25 November, Michel Platini, member of the FIFA and UEFA Executive Committees, opened the new sports centre in Veria, which was constructed thanks to GERMANY the FIFA Goal programme. Then on 5 December, Marios Gerhard Schröder made Lefkaritis, member of the UEFA Executive DFB honorary member Committee, inaugurated the country’s first mini-pitch in the town of Aspropyrgos, At the extraordinary general which was constructed thanks to the UEFA

meeting of the German Football Associa- IFA HatTrick programme. tion (DFB) on 9 December, former German Mr Lefkaritis also inspected the Izhak Iche Menachem, president of the Israel FA, Chancellor Gerhard Schröder was made and new coach Dror Kashtan. new centres of the local leagues of Amfissa an honorary member of the DFB in recog- and Livadia. nition of his services to German football The veteran and most coveted Finally, Joseph Mifsud, member and his role in the country’s bid to stage the coach in Israel’s history, who is currently of the UEFA Executive Committee, was 2006 World Cup. DFB executive president head coach of Hapoel Tel Aviv, has al- present for the inauguration of the centres Theo Zwanziger paid tribute to the former ready held two meetings with the IFA of the local leagues of Thesprotia, on 10 chancellor at the gala event at the Leipzig chairman, Izhak Iche Menachem, and will December, and Arta, the day after, which opera house: “Gerhard Schröder recog- see his appointment approved by the IFA were also financed from the UEFA HatTrick nised the big opportunity that staging the secretariat in the near future. programme. World Cup represented for Germany. But The annual general meeting, Michalis Koutsouris as a former footballer he doesn’t lose which took place towards the end of the sight of the other aspects either.” year, elected a new executive committee Earlier on, DFB president Gerhard comprising 29 members, 12 of whom are Mayer-Vorfelder had opened the extra- ISRAEL new members. ordinary general meeting by welcoming The IFA also hosted UEFA Chief not only Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel Executive Lars-Christer Olsson for a visit at but also FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter, New executive committee its headquarters, where he received a UEFA President Lennart Johansson, FIFA The return of international foot- presentation of its activities and future honorary president Joao Havelange and ball to Israel was highlighted in 2005 as plans. DFB honorary president Egidius Braun to the Israel Football Association (IFA) experi- As the licensor responsible for Leipzig. enced a busy schedule, hosting no fewer issuing licences to Israeli football clubs for In addition, nine foreign cele- than three mini-tournaments on an almost the purpose of participation in UEFA club brities were awarded the “DFB Golden back-to-back basis. competitions, the IFA’s licensing body Award” in recognition of their associa- At the beginning of October, underwent a successful audit, which tions’ services to German and international Austria, Italy and Armenia visited Israel for showed that it complies fully with UEFA’s football, including Ferenc Puskás, Gyula a Women’s Under-19 mini-tournament, National Football Body Licensing Standard. Grosics and Jenö Buzánszky, three of the which was won by the Italians, with Aus- In addition, the IFA has been great Hungarian team which contested tria capturing the second spot. Later that granted partial admission to the Conven- the 1954 World Cup final in Berne, losing month, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia tion on the Mutual Recognition of Coach- 3-2 to Germany. Other award winners in- arrived for the Under-17 Group 4 quali- ing Qualifications, pertaining to UEFA’s B cluded Sheik Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, fying stage, which was won by the Rus- and A levels only. the Emir of Qatar, Ken Naganuma of the sians, with Israel also advancing to the Ofer Ronen-Abels

17 the extension of the coach’s contract, saying tion of FYR of Macedonia made its annual LIECHTENSTEIN that the team was happy to continue work- awards for 2005. ing with him. He said that Andermatt had The award for best player National team receive the trust of the whole team, and his compe- went to FC Rabotnicki Kometal’s Stojan tence, intuition and great international expe- Ignatov. team of the year award rience were valued highly. FC Rabotnicki Kometal received The Liechtenstein senior national Judith Frommelt another three awards, as best football team was named team of the year for club, for the coach of the year, Gjore the second year running at the Liechtenstein Jovanovski, and for the best foreign player, annual sports awards. The Liechtenstein Ivan Pejcic. Olympic Sports Association hosted the tra- LITHUANIA FC Sileks’ striker Stevica Ristic, ditional event at the Kirchplatz theatre in an international player from Serbia and Schaan. Guests from the world of sport Changes in the licensing rules Montenegro, was recognised as top scorer and politics and many sports enthusiasts In preparation for the third season in 2005 (25 goals). attended the crowning social event of the in which licences are required by Lithuanian Other awards went to Mainz national sporting year. clubs, some changes have been made to player Nikolce Novevski, who was singled the licensing rules. out from among the internationals who According to licensing section play for clubs elsewhere as his country’s manager Edvinas Eimontas, a very positive most valuable football representative trend can be seen. abroad. “In general, Lithuanian football FIFA Referee Emil Bozinovski clubs which have obtained a licence have was named referee of the year, and FC made good progress. There is better com- Cementarnica’s general secretary, Dra- munication and interaction between foot- gojlo Jovanovic, was nominated best ball clubs and sports institutions. Stadiums official. have been renovated in Vilnius, Kaunas, The fair play team of 2005 was Siauliai, Panevezys, Klaipeda and Silute. FC Belasica GC from Strumica. Club coaches have attended seminars and Best youth player was FC Sken- LFV there have been other positive develop- dija’s attacker Agim Ibraimi, and the Martin Andermatt (front) talks to the press. ments,” he said. coach of the year, in the youth catego- The licensing system is, of course, ries, FC Pelister’s Zlatko Cvetanovski. The senior national team, coached not the only factor in the development of In futsal, the best team was by Martin Andermatt, won the third round Lithuanian football. Clubs and municipalities champion club KMF ALFA PARF, and best of voting, beating beach volleyball players are also making major contributions to this futsal player Marjan Petkovski from the Oliver Indra and Matthias Wachter and the upward trend. same team. Liechtenstein model aircraft association. Vaiva Zizaite ZFK Skiponjat and its player Afro- Receiving the award, Andermatt dita Salihi were awarded as best club and said proudly, “2005 was a successful year, best player in women’s football. a year of achievement for us. But we can’t Finally, the Football Federation afford to rest on our laurels, we’ve still got FYR OF of FYR of Macedonia also honoured a lot of hard work to do. Our success has MACEDONIA sport journalists Dimce Minovski, Ilija shown us that we can do even more in Karovski and Saban Sinani for their out- future. The important thing is that we carry Awards ceremony in Skopje standing contributions to football in on representing Liechtenstein with our At the end of December, a gala the Former Yugoslav Republic of Mace- whole heart and soul.” night was held at the Aleksandar Palace donia on the media side. At a press conference on 6 Decem- hotel in Skopje, where the Football Federa- Zoran Nikolovski ber, the LFV revealed that Martin Andermatt’s contract was being extended indefinitely. In future, the successful coach will have a varied portfolio of duties, not only taking care of the national team but also having responsibility for football as a whole, from the children’s game to the national eleven. Special emphasis is to be placed on initial and ongoing coach education. The LFV hopes that with Ander- matt at the helm it will be able to build on the successes of the World Cup qualifying campaign, in which Liechtenstein achieved a draw against EURO 2004 runners-up Por- tugal and chalked up a total of eight points.

Team captain Daniel Hasler was pleased at The prize-winners. FSM

18 uefadirect 2.06 young and promising referees went to Por- MALTA NETHERLANDS tugal for a similar experience as their senior colleagues. Mario van der Ende, the experi- enced international referee and coach of Positive trends Referees in the limelight these upcoming match officials, helped the In his traditional end-of-the-year Dutch referees have been in the youngsters work on their overall perform- address to the Malta FA Council, Joseph limelight on several occasions during the ance. For that purpose, quite a few of the Mifsud, president, outlined the association’s past few weeks. In line with the refereeing young Dutch referees officiated at friendly main achievements for the year 2005. master plan launched in 2003, football in matches played in the Algarve area. He said that the outlook was posi- general has benefited from the measures In all, the refereeing master plan tive, despite the fact that the standard of taken to increase the number of certified has already proved successful in many play in Malta’s top league had been a little referees and to improve the quality of refer- areas, and Dutch football can only benefit below par in the first months of the year. eeing at all levels. from what is yet to come out of this ambi- However, there had been an improvement Last November, the president of tious plan. since the beginning of the current season, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB), Rob de Leede with an evident enhancement in competi- Mathieu Sprengers, presented Abdelhak tive levels. Jermoumi with his certificate as the It was generally thought that the 10,000th referee to successfully complete a quality of domestic football in Malta would KNVB course. This huge number in a period PORTUGAL take time to improve unless the number of of just under two years indicates that people teams in the premier division is reduced. Un- of all ages and at all levels of football are Looking to the future fortunately, a motion to this effect had been rejected by the MFA Council earlier in the year. The end of 2005 saw the staging On the other hand, the results of the of two important competitions in the sport- Maltese national teams in different categories ing calendar of the Portuguese Football during the latter part of 2005 had been a Federation (FPF). The final rounds of the source of satisfaction to all. Identical 1-1 draws Eusébio and Manuel Quaresma tourna- against Croatia and Bulgaria in Malta’s last ments in the national stadium, for Under-20 two World Cup qualifiers, increased atten- regional representative teams and Under-18 dances for both games and progress by the players respectively, brought together some Under-21 and youth teams were in the fore- 300 promising youth players, who com- front of this renewed confidence in the KNVB peted vigorously but fairly for the trophies ability of the island’s representative teams. in question. Mathieu Sprengers, president of the “These tournaments are not only During 2005, two new sponsor- Dutch FA, with Abdelhak Jermoumi and FIFA ship agreements for national competitions, referee Kevin Blom. a unique occasion for observing players who and a new TV rights contract for interna- have not yet achieved recognition in the tional matches had boosted the association’s willing to acquire a basic knowledge of national teams, owing to varying speeds of finances and, hence, football in general. In refereeing. Youth courses for players under sporting progress and individual develop- fact, the sponsorships were also intended to 16 have been extremely successful. More ment, but also an important forum for coor- provide direct financial incentives to all clubs. than 4,000 youngsters have completed a dination between the FPF national techni- Formalities in the allotment of the one-day course to become a certified youth cal structure and the 22 district and regional UEFA jubilee mini-pitches as part of the con- referee. These young referees officiate at football associations across the country,” federation’s financial aid to all national asso- Under-8 and Under-10 matches, while still explained FPF national technical coordinator ciations to mark its 50th anniversary were having plenty of time and opportunity to Arnaldo Cunha. being finalised and the first pitches were in play football themselves. The Eusébio tournament, which the process of being installed. For senior referees at amateur seeks to provide a platform for scouting The Malta FA’s next project was level, the KNVB has organised six regional players who may be of interest to the the laying of new artificial turf at the Cente- seminars that were attended by approxi- national Under-20 or Under-21 teams and nary Stadium to conform with FIFA standards, mately 3,500 referees, assistant referees directing them to clubs in the upper divi- while plans for new MFA headquarters at and referee observers. During the seminars, sions, already offers the incentive that the the Ta’ Qali national stadium complex were well-known referees, past and present, winner can represent Portugal in the UEFA at a very advanced stage. related their experiences and gave real-life Regions’ Cup. A healthier financial position, result- examples from the pitch. Each included These two competitions also pay tri- ing particularly from crowd-pulling interna- several workshops from which referees bute to two outstanding figures in Portuguese tional matches, would help the MFA complete could choose topics that they found of par- football: Eusébio da Silva Ferreira, one of such projects sooner rather than later. ticular interest. the all-time greats of world football, and According to the MFA top official, In January, the professional referees Manuel Quaresma, the late FPF general secre- if the past calendar year was anything to go went to Turkey for a five-day training camp. tary, who played a major role in the success- by, 2006 should have more positive trends in This group of over 60 referees and assistant ful organisation of various tournaments, store for the Malta FA and the island’s pas- referees worked hard on their physical fit- especially EURO 2004 and the 2003 Euro- sionate followers of the game. ness and received technical instructions as pean Under-17 Championship final round. Alex Vella well. At the same time, a masterclass of Filipe Félix

19 stepped down. Former defender Daniel Prodan (34 years old, 54 caps) is sports SCOTLAND director for all the national teams (a new New structure position), with responsibility for organisa- Smoke-free zone tional matters concerning those teams. The elections for the presidency Last but not least, another former de- Scotland’s home international of the Romanian FA, which were won again fender, Miodrag Belodedici (41 years old, matches and major cup finals will be played by Mircea Sandu, brought with them the 53 caps), is the new technical director of at a smoke-free Hampden Park from now changes within the association which Mr the national youth teams. on, after the stadium announced a complete Sandu had promised. “It makes sense to have former smoking ban. Inspired by the organisational important players alongside us who want Hampden Park has introduced model of UEFA, Mr Sandu made the neces- to work for the administration. I trust a smoking ban in all areas from January, sary suggestions, which were approved by them and I am well aware that all of them while Glasgow’s other major stadiums, the executive committee of the Romanian FA. are keen to work and that they enjoy Celtic Park and Ibrox, will follow suit shortly As a result, immediately below this work,” said Mircea Sandu, while afterwards. the president in the new organisational Ioan Angelo Lupescu added: “There This decision means that no structure are the general secretary are some things which I knew smoking will be allowed at the Scotland v (Adalbert Kassai stays in the same about the work of the FA, but Switzerland match at Hampden on 1 March position as before) and the newly I realise that there is still a lot that and the Tennent’s Scottish Cup final on created position of CEO, the first I do not know. But, step by step, 13 May, as well as a wide range of other incumbent of which is Ioan Angelo I will learn and I am happy that Mr major football matches and events. Lupescu. The general secretary and Sandu is letting us into the secrets Legislation comes into effect in CEO are on the same level. Lupescu of this job”. Scotland on 26 March which bans smok- (37) is a former key interna- Under the new ing in all enclosed public spaces. David tional (74 caps), who played, structure, the president Kells, managing director of Hampden Park, among other achieve- will deal more with said: “Hundreds of thousands of football ments, in the World Cup the general stra- fans go through the doors of Hampden finals in 1990 tegy and general over the course of the year. We also cater and 1994 programmes of for music fans of all age groups with con- and in EURO the association. certs throughout the summer. We felt we ‘96 and EURO He has delegated should start 2006 with this positive health 2000. The gen- some of his tasks message and support the lead given by eral secretary is to the newcomers, but, the Scottish Executive on this important responsible for monitor- of course, all decisions will initiative.” ing the domestic competi- be taken in consultation ■ An amateur club in Edinburgh, tions, including the referees’ and with the approval of the Spartans FC, has announced ambitious committee, while the CEO president. plans to build a new football academy. is responsible for all other These are not the only The club, who play in the East of areas of the administration. changes made at the beginning Scotland League and regularly qualify for Lupescu is one of the four of this year. Some departments the Scottish Cup, will build a facility with former important members of will be restructured, including the a fully enclosed stadium and grass pitch, the so-called “golden genera- marketing department, which will with seats for 500 spectators and an over- tion” of the Romanian national now have increased importance and all capacity of 3,000, as well as an extra team, all of them participants in value. large third generation artificial pitch, a FIFA World Cup and European Paul Zaharia clubhouse with six changing rooms and Championship final rounds, office accommodation. who will hold key positions The academy will provide a new within the Romanian FA. home for Spartans, whose old ground is Former goalkeeper being demolished, and will be managed by (37 years old, the club. Coaching will be provided by full- 40 caps) is the new director of during EURO 2000. time Spartans coaches, supported by the international relations, replacing club’s 50 part-time youth coaches. In addi- Cristian Bivolaru, who has tion to Spartans, the academy will be used by local schools and community groups. It was launched by Celtic FC man- ager Gordon Strachan, who grew up in the area and is a patron of the club. He said: “I agree with the Spartans philosophy. That’s the reason I got involved. The academy will be an organised environment where kids will learn respect for themselves and each EMPICS other and learn how to be team players.”

20 uefadirect 2.06 Spartans club captain Craig Having spent 50 of his 75 years The “I like playing football” Graham said “We are excited about the in football and received awards from UEFA project in particular has produced some Spartans Community Football Academy and and FIFA, Miljan Miljanic has finally been great results recently. we believe it will make a real difference to honoured in his home country. He is a shin- More and more Slovenian chil- the lives of youngsters in North Edinburgh. ing example for others to follow. dren are deciding to take up football, It will use football to increase physical activ- It was a great day in . Some at first for the fun of it, later maybe as ity, encourage teamwork and develop foot- 300 guests attended the ceremony, includ- a professional. The “I like playing foot- ball skills.” ing Miljan Milajnic’s family, FS SCG offi- ball” project started in 1999 as a winter The capital cost of the project is cials and other football personalities, and Under-8 and Under-10 competition but over £2 million, work starts in February 2006 guests from former Yugoslav republics. soon grew into a nationwide event. The and the facility is scheduled to open in the “This is our victory, a victory for increased popularity of football in Slovenia autumn this year. the football family, a victory for the future. is the most visible result, since the number Andy Mitchell My work in football has been simple, but of participants jumped from 800 in 1999 my love for the game is enormous. Football to 3,600 in 2004. The participants – girls asks everything of you, but you have to give and boys – come from school teams as SERBIA AND more than that if you want to go that bit well as clubs, and we are very pleased to MONTENEGRO further,” said a proud Miljan Miljanic. say that the growing interest in football Praising Miljan Miljanic, Tomislav is continuing. High distinction for Miljan Miljanic Karadzic and former Crvena zvezda president Irena Ilesic Cujovic On 13 December, at Belgrade City Dragan Dzajic said he was a pillar of domes- Hall, Miljan Miljanic, honorary president of tic football and a more than worthy recipient the FA of Serbia and Montenegro (FS SCG), of this award. UKRAINE received one of the highest domestic civil Aleksandar Boskovic National congress SLOVENIA At the end of December, the national association held its seventh con- gress and summed up the results of 2005. “I like playing football” More than 250 participants, including The Football Association of Slove- members of the government, were in nia (NZS) is seriously pursuing the goals of its youth programme. In accordance with the programme, the NZS has started up numer- ous activities within the sphere of children’s and youth football. Children’s football schools, the “I like playing football” project, FS SCG school football competitions and a foot- Miljan Miljanic (left) receives his award from Tomislav Karadzic. baller’s badge are just some of the projects going on at the present time and all of which are part of UEFA’s grassroots project. medals, the “Orden Nemanje Drugog ste- The main goal of the NZS in this pena” (or just “Orden of Nemanja”). The respect is to ensure that the work with all FSS CG president, Tomislav Karadzic, pre- FFU young football players is unified and coordi- sented Mr Miljanic with the medal on be- Grigory Surkis. nated, and to take special care of the can- half of Svetozar Marovic, president of Serbia didates for the national youth teams. and Montenegro, in recognition of Miljan attendance. The first vice-president of UEFA Miljanic’s services to domestic and interna- Senez Erzik, who is also a European mem- tional football in the last 50 years. ber of FIFA Executive Committee was among Miljan Miljanic was born on 4 May guests of honour. The president of the Ukrain- 1930. He started out as a player at FK Crvena ian Football Association (FFU), Grigory Surkis, zvezda in 1947, where he returned as a reported on the basic directions of FFU activ- coach 11 years later. Between 1966 and ity in 2006 and these were then discussed 1974, he won seven trophies with Crvena as one of the main Congress topics. zvezda and also played for Real Madrid CF In April last year, fans of national (two seasons, three trophies). He served as coach Oleg Blokhin formed themselves head coach of the national team of the into a club, the main purpose of which is to former Yugoslavia (1973–74 and 1979–82, support needy sectors of the population. two World Cups, in 1974 and 1982). Recently, New Year’s gifts have been pre- Apart from that, he worked as a coach at sented by Oleg Blokhin to a boarding school NZS FC Valencia and some Asian clubs. Then, in the capital which the fan club is sponsor- The photo entered by Slovenia won first from 1993 to 2001, he was president of prize in UEFA’s Summer of Grassroots Football ing in the long term. our association. photo competition. Valeriy Nykonenko

21 Pyunik, The media also as captain, received awards. receives the championship trophy from Ruben Hayrapetyan, president of the federation. ???????????????

There were also nominations for Football best official and best referee, which went to Aram Grigoryan and FIFA referee Karen Nalbandyan respectively. Federation of Armenia Like last year, lots of prizes in different categories were presented by Successful gala the media. The award for notable develop- “WE DECLARE THE FFA’S 2005 GALA OPEN.” WITH THOSE WORDS, WELL-KNOWN ment was presented by the official broad- ARMENIAN TV PRESENTERS GOT THE PROCEEDINGS UNDER WAY TO HONOUR THE caster of national-team matches, Armen- ian national TV, to Armenian international 2005 PRIZE WINNERS AT THE ANNUAL AWARDS CEREMONY. and FC Pyunik defender Robert Arzu- manyan. Before introducing the prize-win- After FC Banants, it was FC MIKA’s The best goalkeeper award was ners of the 2005 season, everyone present turn to be honoured as championship made by Hay TV to FC Pyunik goalkeeper once again congratulated the national runners-up for the second year in a row. The Gevorg Kasparov. Under-19 team and its coaches, especially 2005 season was characterised by change The Haykakan Football news- head coach Samvel Petrosyan, for their for FC MIKA too. The team is headed now paper presented its best defender prize- success in the European Under-19 Cham- by a young coach, Armen Adamyan, who to FC Kilikia defender Artashes Bagh- pionship, which had resulted in Armenia had done his best to deliver modern, com- dasaryan, while the Haykakan Jamanak qualifying for the final round for the first petitive and attractive football. newspaper named FC Banants striker time ever. Finally, the champions were hon- Tigran Gharabaghtsyan best forward of Afterwards, Armenian second oured. The 2005 season was also a unique the year. division champions Pyunik-2 were invited one for many-times champions of Armenia The goal of the year award was onto the stage. They have demonstrated FC Pyunik – a new coaching staff, new presented by the TV Profootball TV pro- that they are a match for their fellow mentality and new players. FC Pyunik re- gramme to FC Banants player Aram players in the first team and proved to be ceived their trophy and medals from the Hakobyan. the strongest second division side in both president of the FFA, Ruben Hayrapetyan. The best attacking midfielder 2004 and 2005. Armenian international and FC award was presented by Kentron TV to Of the first division teams, FC Banants striker Aram Hakobyan was named FC Pyunik player Aleksander Tadevosyan. Banants were the first to receive an award, player of the year. And finally, the award for the as they had finished the domestic cham- The award for top scorer of greatest achievement in 2005, presented pionship in third place. 2005 went to FC Kilikia’s striker Nshan by the national team’s official partner, One of the most stable clubs in Erzrumyan. He received the bronze boot Sil Group, went to the Under-19 coach Armenia this year, FC Banants have also prize from the FFA president. Samvel Petrosyan. contributed considerably to the development At the suggestion of the FFA The ceremony finished with the of club football in Armenia, bringing in fresh president, the ceremony involved numerous FFA president congratulating all the prize- blood, new coaches and new players, all different footballing nominations. winners and wishing them a competitive of which had a huge impact on their style The media awards went to Shant and attractive 2006 season. of play, as reflected in the fact that FC TV, Haykakan Jamanak journalist Armen Many distinguished guests were Banants proved to be a really tough oppo- Nikoghosyan and Haykakan Football jour- in attendance: the mayor of the city, nent for stronger teams in the UEFA Cup. nalist Ishghan Kishmiryan. the president of the national Olympic com- mittee, members of the FFA executive committee, representatives of the Armen- ian government and parliament, as well as journalists and photographers. Many singers and other artists entertained the audience during the ceremony.

11 clubs in first division In other news, at the FFA’s last meeting of 2005, alongside other ques- tions concerning refereeing and the club licensing programme, among other things, the number of participants in the 2006 first division championship was also dis- cussed. The FFA president informed the executive committee, that second division clubs FC Gandzasar and United had already submitted a written request to be allowed to play in the first division. After a lengthy discussion, it was decided to let these two clubs participate in the first division, thereby increasing the number of participating teams to 11.

PHOTOS: FFA Arayik Manukyan

22 uefadirect 2.06 Communications ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● and alsoahappybirthdayto: like towishthemallmanyhappyreturns gates Panel,on14February. UEFA would (Netherlands), memberoftheFutsalDele- 60,asdoesMarinusEngelsman turns of theYouth andAmateurFootballPanel, ruary, NicolaePantea(Romania),member same milestoneon20February. On12Feb- of theMatchDelegatesPanel,reaches the (Sweden),member while LarsArnesson celebrates his70thbirthdayon18February, of theTechnical DevelopmentCommittee, Jozef Venglos (Slovakia),vice-chairman Birthdays WE CAREABOUTFOOTBALL uoéne efootball de européennes associations des Union Official publicationofthe Communications andPublicAffairs Division (Portugal, 11.2) Pertti Alaja(Finland,18.2) Patrick Kelly(RepublicofIreland, 18.2) Flemming Serritslev(Denmark,18.2) Borislav Alexandrov (Bulgaria,18.2) Adalbert Kassai(Romania,16.2) Svitlana Shkil(Ukraine,15.2) Katriina Elovirta(Finland,15.2) Susanne Erlandsson(Sweden,15.2) John McBeth(Scotland,15.2) Georges Konrath(France,15.2) Peter Bonde(Denmark,14.2) (Spain,14.2) Manuel LopezFernandez Dieter Pauly(Germany, 14.2) Heinz-Herbert Kreh (Germany, 14.2) Oleksandr Bandurko(Ukraine,13.2) Efstratios Papaestratiou(Greece, 12.2) Antonio Ferreira deSequeira McDougall(Scotland,11.2) William Dani Koren (Israel,10.2) (Scotland,9.2) Donald McVicar Fino Fini(Italy, 9.2) Yusuf Namoglu(Turkey, 8.2) Erich Rutemöller(Germany, 8.2) Vaclav Krondl (CzechRepublic, 5.2) Nikolaos Zamboglou(Cyprus,5.2) (England,3.2) Mark Blackbourne Pascal Fratellia(France,3.2) Steen Dahrup(Denmark,3.2) Trygve (Norway, Bornø 2.2) Leonardus vanderKroft (Netherlands,2.2) Karen Espelund (Norway, 1.2) Huseyin Coskun(Turkey, 1.2) (Germany, 1.2) Birthdays –Calendar

??????????????? Professional FootballCommittee Assistance Programmes Committee UEFA FutsalConference European ClubForum UEFA anti-racismconference UEFA Cup:round legs) of32(return first knockoutround (firstlegs) UEFA ChampionsLeague: UEFA Cup:round of32(firstlegs) European Under-21 Championship Draw forthefinalround ofthe2004–2006 Upcoming events ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● Editorial deadline: Printed by Produced by Editor (Portugal, 20.2) (Germany, 28.2) Zorislav Srebric (Croatia, 28.2) Allan Hansen(Denmark,27.2) Alfonso Moreno Gonzalez(Spain,27.2) Egidius Braun(Germany, 27.2) Peter Jones(England,24.2) Richard N. Parry(England,23.2) Vladimir Sajn(Slovenia,22.2) Asim Khudiyev(Azerbaijan,22.2) Gomes(Portugal,21.2) Fernando Lidia Borska(Poland,21.2) Ralph M.Zloczower(Switzerland,21.2) João F. DeMagalhãesMarques Eggert Magnusson(Iceland,20.2) Janis Mezeckis(Latvia,19.2) (Sweden,18.2) 27.2.2006, Nyon 14.2.2006, Nyon 13-15.2.2006, Madrid 8.2.2006, Porto 6-7.2.2006, Nyon 1.2.2006, Barcelona Meetings 23.2.2006 21-22.2.2006 15-16.2.2006 Competitions André Vieli Cavin SA,CH-1422 Grandson Atema CommunicationSA,CH-1196 Gland 13 January2006 the president. Grigol Tsaava, hasbecomeadviserto tary oftheGeorgianFA. Hispredecessor, general secretary. Czech FA hasre-electedPetrFousekas petitions andfinalrounds. appearances theymadeinqualifyingcom- national-team coaches,indicatinghowmany with alistofallItalianinternationalsand names therefereesandscorers,finishes Cup, thebooklistsallteamline-ups, right uptothequalifiersfor2006World nity topublishbooksonthesubject.Statis- The forthcomingWorld Cupisanopportu- AI CAMPIONATI DELMONDO LA NAZIONALEITALIANA (www.gia.pl/[email protected]). distributed byWydawnictwoGiA tic championships.Theencyclopaediais the EuropeanandSouthAmericandomes- of theinternationalcompetitionsand putable referenceresourceonPolishfoot- The pilkarskaFujiencyclopaediaistheindis- ROCZNIK 2005-2006 New publications ■ ■ Communications Shqiptar-Magazine [email protected] covering theperiodfrom1950to1954and volume onthehistoryofAlbanianfootball, This BesnikDizdaripublicationisthefourth TE SHQIPERISE HISTORIA EKAMPIONATEVE The executivecommitteeofthe Ucha Ugulavaisthenewgeneralsecre- source isindicated. is authorised,provided the published in or extractsofany information The reproductionofarticles official viewsofUEFA. articles arenotnecessarilythe The viewsexpressedinsigned covering allofItaly’s matches team. Goingbackto1934and tion abouttheItaliannational duced anexemplarypublica- [email protected]) havepro- Italy –www.soccerdata.it – (Via Ciccotti,6,20161Milan, tics specialistsSoccerdata ders toprovidetheresults goes beyondthenationalbor- domestic competitionsandalso ski, givesdetailsofallthe lished byAndrzejGowarzew- Polish footballyearbook,pub- ball. Thisneweditionofthe Available from Futbolli to 1954. ian championshipsfrom1930 tables summarisingtheAlban- statistics onthematchesand years. Italsocontainsdetailed championships duringthose describing thehighlightsof uefadirect

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