adidas XI

This is the second half of my first-ever two-part post! Following on from the Nike XI, it's time for the adidas half of the Nike vs adidas battle. The teams are surprisingly well-matched, and I really hope that some day we do get to see an all-star game of sorts. It would be a perfect way to raise money for charity... I know I'd pay if they played over here.

But before I start the list, take a look at Luis Suarez in the photo above... I find it hilarious that they asked him to pose that way. Biters gonna bite I guess.

GK: Manuel Neuer

Manuel is without a question the best goalkeeper in the world right now. A runner-up for the UEFA Player of the year 2013/14 (after losing out to Cristiano Ronaldo), he has finally started getting all the attention he has deserved for years.

Defence

CB: Philipp Lahm

Another World Cup winner, Philipp is one of the best defenders in the world (and he has been for years). A man that can play virtually wherever his manager tells him to - Pep doesn't hesitate to use him as a midfielder - he constantly shows why he is held in such high regard.

CB: Mats Hummels

It's no secret that I love Mats Hummels. The important thing is that I have a good reason for loving him, he is the best German centre-back I've seen in a while. He's tall, commanding in the air and he knows how to lead a line... he's also not slow. All you need in a CB and so much more.

CB: Jordi Alba

Jordi Alba is one of my favourite players in the world, and I hate saying that because of how much I love Real Madrid and dislike Barcelona - but credit where credit is due. He's technically gifted and filled with blistering pace, more importantly, he has excellent stamina. He is a consistent and reliable player, and that's what you need/want from a defender.
You just have to try and ignore the fact that he looks like Louis Litt from Suits.

Midfield

CDM: Xabi Alonso

He could be included in this list for that beard alone...

...but he is here because of reasons that were shown to the world during last season. Madrid only started to look serious after he returned from injury, and his absence in the Champions League Final was felt. Madrid really struggled without him, and it looks like they're struggling without him already.

CM: Ángel Di María

Oh look at him, smiling like someone that doesn't have to face the pressure of winning a league title this year... oh wait. Enjoy United, Angel.

Man of the match in the Champions League Final, most assists in La Liga last season, one of the most gifted players in the world. I still don't know why Madrid didn't pay Angel as much as he wanted, he's worth it. Since money was more important to him, he left and I hope he doesn't regret it.
Despite all of that, and the fact that he plays for the wrong Mancunian team, he is still one of the best midfielders in the world.

CAM: Mesut Özil

Mesut is one of the most underrated players in the world, even though he's absolutely perfect.
He's been my favourite footballed for years and I have never felt the need to justify that. I still don't.
I believe Arsene Wenger apparently - it might just be some people on facebook with their false quotes again, but it is true in my opinion - said it best when he said,

"If you don't enjoy watching him play, you don't like football."

LM: David Silva 

One of the most consistently underrated players in the world, David Silva is a man that can't even hold down a place in his national team's squad (when he really should). He's had to settle for dominating the Man City field with the help of Yaya Toure, kind of like a buddy-cop film. 

Toure and Silva, the crime solving pair of footballers. I'd watch that. 

Anyway, David has the ability that Mesut has too, the ability to seem invisible while actually keeping the entire attack together. 

ST: Luis Suarez

must.. resist.. urge... to... make... bite... joke..

Luis is arguably the best striker in the world, a man who could fit in at any team. Sure, he has done some insanely stupid things, but we all have.

With Luis it's important to remember to judge him on his footballing and not the kind of things he does, because let's face it... that won't take him far.

CF: Lionel Messi

Arguably the greatest footballer of all time (I myself am more of a Cristiano fan), Leo could walk into any team in the world. 

I don't even know why I'm trying to justify his inclusion, I think I'll just sto

RM: Gareth Bale

When he first arrived at Madrid I was against him signing, but he definitely changed my mind. Vital goals and wonderful stats all-round, The Prince of Wales changed everyone's minds,

Not only does he score and assist, but he does it beautifully and with so much power. A true beast.

Using lineupbuilder.com, I made a representation of how this team would look on the field. Here you go:

I don't have an adidas ad to leave here like I did with the NikeXI post. adidas haven't made an amazing ad for a while now.

If you think I've made a mistake, let me know and I'll get back to you.

If you have any suggestions for the blog or future posts, feel free to comment or you can even tweet me at @MSMasoet.

NIKE XI

I was sitting in a garden a few days ago when a friend of mine asked which brand had a better all-star team: Nike or adidas? Thinking about it made me excited. I felt as if I had to blog about it.

As a brand, I prefer adidas, but when it comes to boots I think it's very difficult to come close to Nike (except adidas' Lethal Zones  - but that's a story for another blog post). I am also aware that Puma would be able to make a team of their own, but I really don't think it's fitting for the epic battle that these teams could have, so for now it's Nike v adidas... and Nike's up first.

GK: Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut is one of my favourite young players at the moment, even though he happens to be on the wrong Madrid team. He's so good that Petr Cech has to worry about his spot at Chelsea and he is only 22 years old! Definitely one for the future, I'm pretty sure he'll become the best in the world some day.

Defenders

CB: Sergio Ramos

It's no secret that I love Sergio Ramos. I think he's been on almost every list I've made on this blog (yes, I know there are only five posts). I promise that he didn't make this list because of that love; he made this list purely on merit and fabulousness. Easily, the second best defender in the world.

CB: Thiago Silva

Thiago Silva is a player that you can't hate. The best defender in the world (sorry Sergio!) and a true leader, one of the most well-rounded players to ever grace the pitch. If you don't know what I mean, watch him play... you'll see. He is definitely needed in this team, especially to balance how erratic his fellow defenders are.

CB: David Luiz

David is a player that is always worth watching. You never know when he's going to take a shot at goal, and you never know if it's going to be horribly wide or a goal-of-the-year candidate. The level of excitement, coupled with the fact that he is one of the funniest players you'll ever watch, makes him a must-have.

Midfielders

CM: Andrea Pirlo

Andrea is the classiest player I have ever seen. He drips class. I'm sure his sweat could be used to clean wine glasses, reading spectacles, a yacht or other classy people things (as in the things classy people own). He's really sophisticated. 

He is also one of the best midfielders of all time, so there's that I guess.

CM: Andres Iniesta

Andres Iniesta has the unique ability to look like an old man but also a baby at the same time. Seriously, just look at his face. 

On a technical side of things, Andres must have been taught how to play the beautiful game at Hogwarts, because every touch of his on the field is pure magic. 

Ten points to Ravenclaw! (he just has that Ravenclaw vibe to him).

CAM: Eden Hazard

Eden is the PFA Young Player of the season for 2013/14 and Chelsea's player of the year (not that they had many candidates - let's be honest) and it's well-deserved. He is one of the best dribblers I have ever seen. He has a few things in common with Courtois: both Belgian, both belong to Chelsea FC and they are two of the best young players in the world.

Eden also reminds me of a faun. 

No, I can't explain why, he just does.

Forwards

LW: Cristiano Ronaldo

He is the best player in the world, one of the greatest of all time and the face of Nike - there's no way he wouldn't make this team. 

I don't even need to justify this selection.

(I am aware of how sassy that makes me sound, thanks.)

CF: Neymar

A young player with so much potential, all he needs is to toughen up a bit. 

Once you get over the fact that he goes down like he's made of wafers and glued together with icing sugar, he is a great player (I think). Sometimes I can't get over the ease with which he goes to ground, but that's only when he plays against Real Madrid.

ST: Zlatan Ibrahimovic 

Zlatan needs no explanations. 

RW: Franck Ribery 

He might not be the best sportsman (for so many reasons), but you cannot deny that he is an amazing player. Technically the third-best player in the world (which I disagree with), he does deserve this spot though.

Using lineupbuilder.com, I made a representation of how this team would look on the field. Here it is:

I strongly suggest that you watch this advertisement, I think it might be the greatest soccer ad of all time:

Well done, Nike.

Yes, I left Wayne Rooney out of the team. I find him incredibly overrated, and he sure as hell doesn't deserve a place ahead of any of the players in this team.

If there's anything you want to say, or if there's any topic you'd like me to blog about - comment. 

11 of the Cutest Kids in Football

Before you start to AOL (Aww Out Loud) let me warn you that this post might trigger some Cute Aggression.

I've always felt that it's the small, chubbly things in life that make it worth living, so I hope you enjoy this.

Harper Beckham

Father: David Beckham

With three sons, little Harper is David and Victoria's only daughter; I bet Victoria's been looking forward to her arrival for ages. LOOK AT THOSE CHEEKS. With parents as fashionable as hers, it's safe to say Harper's got many years of looking adorable ahead of her. 

Lia Fàbregas

Father: Cesc Fàbregas

Lia is part of the current baby boom being experienced at FC Barcelona. No one is complaining about it though. Have you seen how cute she is? She is also best friends with another baby on this list.  

Ane and Jontxu Alonso

Father: Xabi Alonso

The first package deal on the list, Alonso's kids are both so cute that it would just be unfair to separate them. Don't ask me how to pronounce his son's name though. 

For further proof of the cuteness of the Alonso family (not just the kids), see the photo(s) below:

Luca and Isabella Leite

Father: Kaká

Luca looks almost exactly like his father and that is something which is sure to lead to him having many fans. Isabella, on the other hand, looks like a mixture of both her parents and that recipe seems to result in adorable children. It's safe to say that Kaká passed his lovableness on to his kids.

Nora and Leo Torres

Father: Fernando Torres

His kids are as baby-faced as he is. That might be because they are still babies, only time will tell.

They are as cute as some people seem to think El Niño is (or was, depending on which team you support), so spectators have no right to complain.

Ömer Şahin

Father: Nuri Şahin

The fact that he has his father's eyes, his fat cheeks and is constantly smiling in photos make him adorable. Nuri frequently posts photos of his son on Facebook and his twitter bio starts off with the words 'PROUD DAD!!!'.

AOL.

Also, his father bought him a mini-Merc so they'd always be matching:

Don't worry, it's just a pedal car. 

Milan Piqué

Father: Gerard Piqué

Another member of the Barca baby boom, Milan is the son of Gerard and Shakira. I don't know what it is about Barcelona, but the babies there are all super adorable and round. It's just. not. fair.

Lilly-Ella, Lexie and Lourdes Gerrard

Father: Steven Gerrard

The little one is Lourdes*.

Never thought Steven would be a parent who named all his kids with the same first letter. ALL THEIR INITIALS ARE L.G., STEVIE. DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH OF A NIGHTMARE IT WILL BE WHEN YOU LABEL THINGS?

Seriously though, these kids are super cute.

*(I only know which one Lourdes is, so I won't try to point out the others).

Chanel and Cristian Totti

Father: Francesco Totti

Well, look who happens to be in that photo with them... I told you they have a massive bromance, didn't I?

These kids always look so happy in every photo you see of them. In the end, the thing that makes a child adorable is them being happy, isn't it?
(I really hope that makes sense because it does in my head).

Alba Arbeloa

Father: Alvaro Arbeloa

Sometimes a child can be cute, but the thing that takes the cuteness to another level is the relationship they have with their parents. Alvaro is so loving towards his daughter that is impossible to not AOL when you see them. 

Thiago Messi

Father: Leo Messi

This guy.

His father is arguably the greatest footballer of all-time, and I think it's safe to say that Thiago is in the running for cutest baby ever. He is also best friends with Lia. 

There is just nothing about this baby that is not cute. MARSHMALLOW BABY.

Thiago is so cute and chubbly that a new emoticon had to be made specifically for his smiles: 

:D)

This isn't the final list like this that you'll see. Look out for a '11 of the Cutest Kids in Football Part 2: The Cuteness Continues' some time next year.

I am aware that this post has considerably less writing than the others, but I struggle to speak when I see cute babies. I basically just 'eeeeeeeep'. 

True Story.

It is a manly 'eeeeeeeep' though. Most of the time. Some of the time. 

Also, finally, I'd like to give a MASSIVE thank you to my sisters. To one, for letting me use her laptop to do this post and to the other sister for always helping me with the editing.

Thanks, I love you guys.

Top 11 Football Bromances

A bromance can be described as "the complicated love and affection shared by two straight males" and the guys on this list show that it can be beautiful.
Sometimes, though, it can go a little too far *cough*Pique*cough*.

Here are my eleven favourite bromances, in no particular order (as always):

Song to listen to while reading this article: Queen's 'You're My Best Friend'

David Villa + Cesc Fabregas

I think this is a wonderful bromance for many reasons. David is like an older brother (on and off the pitch) and he not only offers friendship but also advice. He also helped Cesc transfer to Barca.
The bromance also helped on the field, with Cesc frequently seen trying to pick David up with a nice pass in front of goal, and when he gets the pass it usually results in a goal.

Sadly, this 'mance had to end, due to David's transfer to Atletico.

'Fabrilla' as the bromance is often called probably can't wait for international duty, at least then they get to see each other.

Francesco Totti + Daniele De Rossi

"Totti is a treasure for Roma. He's loved by all, and is decisive on the pitch. I have great desire to show this as well."

That is what Dani thinks of Francesco. They've played together for years, and I'm sure Totti's the only person who can make him smile on the field. 

It does go both ways though, during the previous transfer window when there was a possibility of De Rossi leaving Roma, Totti basically begged him to stay  (after he wished him a happy 30th birthday).

A bromance built on mutual respect and understanding. 

Mario Götze + Marco Reus

This is one bromance that no one can ever doubt. Such a bromance that they even did a GQ cover shoot together. 

Yup.

'Götzeus', much like 'Fabrilla' also had to end when one player was transferred  Mario left Dortmund, and Marco, for their biggest rivals, Bayern Munich. Everyone has heard that Marco was very emotional after his best friend left, and absolutely no one thought it could be a lie.

At least they still get to rip apart defences when playing for the German NT though, so Götzeus could live on.

Don't Stop Believing.

David Beckham + Gary Neville

A friendship like theirs is inevitable.

They've played together for so many years that they were bound to become attached to each other. 

You know how you can see how much someone loves another person when they talk about them? Whenever they talk about each other you can feel it. It's heartwarming and inspiring that they could remain close friends after all this time. Especially since a lack of loyalty is something which many people are criticising the beautiful game for.

If you don't believe me about the love, you can read this article to see what I'm trying to conveying.

Xavi + Andres Iniesta

"We’ve been together for years and understand each other well. He’s the best friend that I have on the pitch. We almost never have to talk."

These two.

I am willing to go out on a limb and say that this bromance is the reason for at least 90% of Barca's glory in the past few years. Xavi is the master of the pass and Iniesta is the master of dribbling. Put them together and  you have a partnership that could probably even make QPR win the Premier League. 

They're just that great. 

Frank Lampard + John Terry

John and Frank have been playing together for years. Their respect is something which is always visible when they're on the same pitch, whether it's for Chelsea or for the English NT. 

The love is there.

Frank is the one who took it upon himself to console his captain after his hilarious unfortunate penalty miss against United in the Champions League final a few years ago. 

John loves Frank so much that he would never even try to flirt with his wife, and for John, that means so much. It's a give and take bromance, the way it should always be. 

Cristiano Ronaldo + Miguel Veloso

I'll say what everyone is thinking here. Yes, this is the most handsome bromance in the history of bromances. Much like many footballing friendships, they played together for the same youth team and then the senior team before parting ways. 

Even though Miguel is based in Russia and Cristiano is earning his money in Spain, they still remain great friends. The true extent of their friendship can be seen whenever the Portuguese NT play. 

I bet they even help each other with their hair.

Fabulous.

Mesut Özil + Sergio Ramos

As a massive fan of Mesut, Madrid and Ramos, I love this bromance almost as much as they love each other. From The Wizard of Öz wearing Sergio's cap to Sergio having one of Mesut's custom seat covers in his own car... these guys are experiencing a bromance on a whole other level.

This is also the first bromance that features members who are not from the same country. With The King of Assists not being able to speak English or Spanish fluently and Ramos being just able to get by with his English, I actually have NO IDEA as to how they communicate.

This bromance has also become involuntarily long-distance now, due to Mesut's arrival at Arsene's Arsenal. Everyone was quite emotional because of his departure, especially Mesut and Sergio. These tweets tell their story better than I will ever be able to:

An enormous pleasure having played by your side, may luck be with you "Bro" @MesutOzil1088 http://t.co/5YKyinCDxv

— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) September 3, 2013

I will miss u bro.. I wish u all the best. 〽1Ö , SR4 pic.twitter.com/5dpiXxBA43

— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) September 3, 2013

Your last match's t-shirt will be kept foundly with me. @MesutOzil1088 pic.twitter.com/ocrltHEZH3

— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) September 3, 2013

Sergio actually tweeted a link to a bromance video. YOU JUST DON'T DO THINGS LIKE THAT.

Iker Casillas + David Beckham

I know it makes very little sense to have someone on this list twice, but this is just a friendship that no one can ignore. Unlimited respect and love for each other on and off the pitch AND they play like little kids on the training ground. 

After all this time, 'Becksillas' is still very much alive (much to Gary Neville's displeasure).

Jose Mourinho + Marco Materazzi

The first (and only) bromance on this list to include a player and a manager.

During Mou's time at Inter, the two players grew very close. To this day they still have much respect and love for each other, with Marco even dropping hints that he'd love it if Mourinho would allow him to work as his assistant  at Chelsea. 

D'awww.

Also, when Mourinho left, this happened: 

This is almost as sad as Brian's Song, but it is also something that only a few people will truly understand.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic + Gerard Pique

This is where things get weird.

Pique, like Sergio, is known for getting attached to many players, but no bromance has gone this far. 

I feel as though I shouldn't say anything. This photo says it all:

I hope Shakira never sees this photo.

If I missed out on any bromances that you feel should be on this list, comment and let me know.