Bob and his wife are safe. Lots of folks here have opinions, thoughts, whatever. But my brother is fully-invested in his TEAM right now (six points, top of group) and trying to get them to Brazil. In case you haven't noticed, he's passionate, determined, committed. Same as ever. Peace.
In case you haven't noticed, nobody suggested he wasn't. You have an odd way of acknowledging people's concern for your brother.
Back on track . . http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsCon...radley-promises-to-lead-Egypt-for-World-.aspx not exactly a promise, but . . "I will stay in my position here trying to fulfil the Egyptian dream to qualify for the World Cup," the 54-year-old former US coach said. The pharaohs, who won three successive African Cup of Nations trophies(2006, 2008 and 2010) have not qualified for the World Cup since 1990. "We are using friendlies and closed camps to prepare for the next match. We will start with UAE camp," Bradley added. Egypt will play two friendly games against Congo and Tunisia on 12 and 16 October in the UAE amid preparations for 2014 Brazil World Cup qualifiers.
Not a big deal. I am glad they are doing well. Hopefully, he knows there are a lot people pulling for him.
I've been thinking about this probably more than I should have, but I think - ok, it's more like hope/wish - that if he leads Egypt to the World Cup Bob could become a transformational figure in Egypt and, perhaps, the region and could have influence that transcends soccer and could influence US-Egypt and US-Muslim relations.
That would be great. Even if they fall short, I think Bob Bradley presents a positive image to Egyptians and others in the region. He seems a level-headed, thoughtful person, the anti-loudmouth, ignorant cretan (a commonly held image abroad, and not without some justification).
No, if he succeeds they will see him as an individual, if he fails they will see him as American, if his results are border line they will be seen as failure because he is American. Nothing good can come from that adventure. Staying safe is as good an outcome as it gets.
Taking deep breaths and reminding myself, once again, that individuals only represent themselves and their own points of view... not necessarily their culture, country, religion, occupation, political party...
Words probably can't describe how big. Despite their record 7 ACON titles, only twice, in 1934 and 1990, have they qualified for the WC. It's been of the greatest mysterious of world football especially given their talent. Bradley would be past hero status if he can guide them to Brazil.
Egypt soccer league delayed once again. How about loaning some of them to the MLS? .... The lack of competitive football will have a significant effect on the national team, most of whom will now be without match practice as they try to qualify for the 2014 World Cup. However, coach Bob Bradley said: "Despite the recent difficulties, I am sticking with my job - especially as the players are committed and enthusiastic and they really are getting better. "If the Egyptian league doesn't return it will not be good for us, but I have other solutions for that problem. We will depend on long-term camps and we will try to arrange a sufficient number of friendly matches." ..... http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/s...ptian-football-league-restart-delayed?cc=5901