In the video below, soccer broadcaster Ross Fletcher reviewed this Sunday’s 2016 Euro Final between France and Portugal, Seattle Sounders FC’s playoff chances, head coach Jurgen Klinsmann’s future with the USMNT, and the intrigue surrounding the upcoming English Premier League campaign.
UEFA Euro 2016
“Ronaldo can only drag a team so far on his own…As a team, France are far stronger.”
The previous Seattle Sounders FC play-by-play man picked France to defeat Portugal and win the 2016 Euros. France has the home pitch advantage, and a stronger overall squad compared to their European counterparts.
Even with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the lineup, Portugal failed to win a single match against their Group F rivals before moving on the knockout stage. They managed three draws against Iceland (1-1), Austria (0-0) and Hungary (3-3).
Seattle Sounders FC’s playoff chances
“Seven points between them and a playoff place…is not an insurmountable task…It’s a challenge unlike any other they’ve faced.”
Seattle’s 17 points in 16 games leaves the Sounders seven points shy of a playoff slot in the Western Conference. With a tough matchup against LA Galaxy on Saturday, his former team faces a difficult scheduling stretch with eight games in the month of July.
According to Fletcher, the Sounders have an uphill battle to extend their playoff streak.
Jurgen Klinsmann’s status
“Jurgen Klinsmann took the USA as far as they could…It achieved expectations.”
By taking the USMNT to the Copa America Centenario semifinals, Klinsmann managed to assuage his critics for now. The pressure’s on the German soccer icon, and will continue to mount as the USA returns to World Cup qualification.
Upcoming English Premier League season
“A lot of people cannot wait to see what will happen with the two Manchester clubs.”
The upcoming EPL campaign main storyline focuses on two head coaches in Manchester. Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho moves to Manchester United, while the previous Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola will make his English league debut with Manchester City.
Fletcher noted the contrasting styles between the two high-profile and successful soccer managers. Mourinho is considered to be cocky and abrasive. Guardiola is humbler in his demeanor and approach.
The two coaching legends will have a battle of wills and differ in their team’s playing styles. It shapes up to be an intriguing season for the EPL.
