Ecstasy for America: USA vs Ghana Recap

The US captured a vital three points today against Ghana as John Anthony Brooks picked up a late headed goal to win after the Andre Ayew's equalizer. The American play was not exactly pretty, as the team spent much of the eighty minutes between Clint Dempsey's early opener and the Ghanaian goal desperately defending with tired legs and players going down with injuries left and right. Matt Besler and perhaps more significantly Jozy Altidore both left with hamstring issues by halftime, with Altidore's looking the more severe. Dempsey also suffered a likely broken nose after being kicked in the face in the first half.

As fate would have it, however, it was Besler's substitute replacement, Hertha Berlin center-back Brooks who would steal the game for the Outlaws. He climbed high above the Black Stars defense to nod in the winning goal as Norwegian-born Ghana goalie Adam Kwarasey failed to make the stop. It was an exhilarating, emotional, and joyous moment, and one that means so much not only for the USA's chances of advancing in this tournament but for the growth of the game as whole in the country.

In truth, this game and manner of victory could not have come at a more perfect time for soccer in the US. Interest in the sport has been increasing steadily over the past decade thanks to a variety of factors, and with millions watching this match (thanks in part to a rip-roaring start to the tournament already), many more fans were undoubtedly made in the space of two hours. The sport got its "SportsCenter moment" tonight, much akin to Landon Donovan's stoppage-time winner against Algeria in 2010, one that will be the leading story on sporting websites and programs throughout the nation for at least one night. Though the game has been increasing in popularity already in the states due in part to more accessibility to European matches on television and online, the growing quality of the MLS, social media, and the growing sales numbers of the FIFA video game franchise, it's games like this one that can really win people over.

So what does this result mean for the American squad's hopes in this world cup? In a word, everything. A loss or even a draw against this Ghana team would have made it incredibly difficult for the US to advance past their group, needing results against both Portugal and Germany, with at least one win. But now, in conjunction with Germany's 4-0 battering of the Portuguese earlier this afternoon, the US would likely move on with just a point against Portugal, a strong possibility if today's performance is anything to judge by. Assuming Germany beats Ghana, a tie vs. Portugal would leave the US three points above third place in the group with a huge lead in goal differential. Plus, Germany would have already clinched advancement, and could possibly rest some stars for their matchup against the United States.

All in all, today was an amazing day for the USA. An exciting victory in a crucial match combined with a favorable result elsewhere means that surviving the dreaded Group of Death is more than a possibility now, and maybe even a likelihood. The US plays Portugal this Sunday in a can't-miss game at six o'clock EST. Here's hoping Jurgen Klinsmann and his men can keep their winning streak alive.

Premier League Home Stretch: Assessing the Title Race, the Relegation Battle, and the Supposed Downfall of Manchester United

Title Race

In front of you stand three managers all attempting to snatch the Premier League Title in the final two months of the season: first, the always arrogant, always entertaining Jose Mourinho, who recently declared that his Chelsea squad have no hope of winning the league following a 1-0 defeat to lowly Crystal Palace; in the middle stands Brendan Rodgers, who with the help of a deadly striking duo has surprised everyone by taking Liverpool to the top of the table; and lastly Manuel Pellegrini, who in his first season in the BPL has led Manchester City to a current position of third place, though with two fewer matches played than their rivals, the Sky Blues can overtake both Chelsea and Liverpool should they win their games in hand.

The question on everybody's mind now is, of course, which club will finish the season in first? My answer, in short, is that I can't say for sure. If I had to guess, which I kind of have to otherwise this would be a pointless post, I'd say Manchester City will be named champions in a very tight race. They sit four points below league leaders Liverpool with two games in hand, therefore, if they win both of those matches, they will be at least two points ahead of second place. They only have one particularly difficult fixture left to play, and that's an away contest against Liverpool. Everton might frustrate them at Goodison, where they have only lost once all season, but the game at Anfield is still the toughest task left for Pellegrini's side. The return of top forward Sergio Aguero will be a big boost to the Manchester Club as well. Should Liverpool beat City in that game, they will have a pretty good shot at the title themselves. Chelsea also have to travel to Anfield, have no games in hand, and still have European play to worry about, so I think Mourinho's prognosis is a correct one. That's also another big game for Liverpool, who otherwise have an extremely tame fixture list. Their three remaining away games have them pitted against Norwich, West Ham, and Crystal Palace, though as Chelsea proved yesterday, Tony Pulis' men aren't always a pushover at Selhurst park. I expect the race to be settled in the second-to-last week of the year, and if not, all three should claim victory on the final matchday against manageable opponents, resulting in no shake-up atop the table.

Fight for Fourth Place & Champions League

Of course, the battle for the fourth & final champions league slot in England will be a pugnacious one as well. Spurs proved themselves today to be totally incompetent of beating any strong opponent, and are all but guaranteed to finish outside the top four. That leaves two clubs legitimately contending for the position; one-time title contenders Arsenal, who spent much of the season in first before recently suffering a dip in form and effectively dropping out of the title race, and Everton, the scrappy rivals to Liverpool who year after year punch above their financial weight by finishing near clubs with significantly larger bank accounts. Like the City-Chelsea-Liverpool situation, the team currently sitting in the desired standing, Arsenal, has played one more match than the team chasing the spot. Everton lie four points behind Arsenal with one game in hand, though they have the tougher remaining schedule. This race will more than likely be determined next Saturday, when the two squads face each other at Everton's home stadium, Goodison Park, where they have stood sturdy in almost every game this season. Their one home loss came only after a misplaced back pass led to goalkeeper Tim Howard's red card and their opponent's subsequent conversion of the penalty shot. Arsenal and Everton have clashed twice already this year, both times at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium. The league match ended one-one after Everton loanee Gerard Deulofeu's stunning equalizer, while the FA cup match saw the injury-plagued Blues lose 4-0. Though Everton may blow their chances with fixtures against the two Manchester clubs on the horizon (though both are home games), I still feel that whichever squad triumphs on Saturday will claim the final champions league spot. Should they draw, I'll give the advantage to Arsenal, whose toughest opponent left after Everton is the nothing-to-play-for, currently-faltering Newcastle.

The Plight of David Moyes & Manchester United

The banner seen above was flown over Old Trafford during Manchester United's 4-1 drubbing of Aston Villa yesterday, indicating the frustration of a small but vocal minority of fans of the Red Devils. David Moyes was given the nearly insurmountable task of succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson as manager of the title defenders, and it's safe to say his first season hasn't been a huge success, with the club sitting in seventh place with Europa League the best possibility left for them to fight for. However, the level of outrage towards Moyes this year, coupled with the exaggerative media, has made this campaign out to be more of a disaster than it is and Moyes to be more incompetent than he is. Let's break it down, shall we? The Manchester United squad that won the title last season was kept pretty much 100% intact this year, with the additions of the big-haired Belgian Marouane Fellaini, the rise of young winger Adnan Januzaj, and the January addition of tricky attacking mid Juan Mata from Chelsea. Logically, many expected them to at least be in the conversation for potential league champions for most if not all of the season. However, when you look more closely, there are several major factors beyond Moyes's control that have helped cause United's slide down the BPL table. First, and most tangibly, his team is aging and has suffered its share of injuries this season. Defenders Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand are now 32 and 35, respectively, and both have seen a regression in overall skill as well as a number of injuries plaguing them this year. Backup center backs Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling haven't exactly been the embodiments of health either. Linchpin midfielder Michael Carrick has been injured as well, and even when healthy has played nowhere near the level he was at last season. Fellaini missed time as well, along with role players such as Phil Jones, Patrice Evra, and Antonio Valencia. The biggest injury loss this season for United has been star striker Robin Van Persie, who led the league in goals last year. His absence has been crucial, with backup striker Javier Hernandez playing badly, leaving the young Danny Welbeck to accompany club veteran Wayne Rooney in attack. In truth, Rooney, Welbeck, goalie David De Gea, and winger Ashley Young have been the only consistently good players at the club. Part of this is clearly down to Moyes, but part is just natural regression, which is to be expected when a manager of Ferguson's stature departs.

Not only has United been worse this season, partially due to problems beyond Moyes' influence, but the rest of the league has been better. Samuel Eto'o and Eden Hazard have provided goals for Chelsea this year where they were absent in 2012-2013. Manchester City have strengthened with the additions of Alvaro Negredo and Fernandinho, with Fernandinho's partner in deep midfield, Yaya Toure, having the season of his life. It's not every season a CDM scores seventeen, yes SEVENTEEN, goals. That's more than anybody in the league besides Liverpool's devastating SAS partnership of strikers Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez. Speaking of Liverpool, they have been much stronger this season too, and Arsenal for much of the year seemed to be reborn. Everton, too, is strong, thanks to a new manager, breakout star Ross Barkley, and a dearth of impact-making loan signings. The only team near the top to have regressed (other than United) is Tottenham. Even bottom dwellers like Cardiff, Sunderland, and Fulham have been at least somewhat resistant compared to last year's pitiful performances week in and week out by the likes of Reading and QPR. So, an injury-riddled squad plus a stronger league overall have not made Moyes' job easy this year.

If you're a United supporter and are still in panic mode, consider the following. United are in seventh place, with a new manager, and a large-but-not-massive transfer budget at their disposable. Last season, the club that finished in seventh place also had a first-year coach and a similar financial situation.They ended up with 61 points, which could very well be less than United's total come the end of the season. (They sit at 54 with six games left.) As of today, that same club now leads the league and has a more than legitimate chance at the title. Yes, I'm talking about Liverpool. In Brendan Rodger's first year, the club finished seventh, the exact place United are in now, and just one year later are challenging for first place. One smart January signing in Daniel Sturridge and the rise of a few young stars in Raheem Sterling, Jon Flanagan, and Jordan Henderson have helped an already strong foundation to the top of table. In comparison, United picked up Juan Mata in January, and have rising young stars in Angelo Henriquez, Wilfried Zaha, and Adnan Januzaj. Who's to say that Welbeck, Smalling, or Cleverley don't blossom into fantastic players come next season and United experience the same ascendancy that Liverpool has witnessed this year? Obviously it's not an exact parallel, but it's a pretty close resemblance to my eyes, and definitely a possibility that should make United fans a little more patient with their new man. What happens if you fire him, hire someone else, and he struggles? Does the cycle just repeat over and over again? Moyes may not be up to snuff just yet, but given time he could be just what the Red Devils need.

Relegation Rumble

Rivaling the tight title race this season is the even closer fight to avoid relegation to the second division. Only recently has the gap widened a little, but nobody's out of the woods quite yet. Only eight points separate 11th and 18th place, meaning any teams in that range are in danger of going down, along with, obviously, the two bottom clubs. However, for some teams I see relegation as more likely outcomes than others. For starters, I think Swansea, West Ham, Aston Villa, and Hull are all too resilient and have too much talent to go down, which leaves everybody from Norwich on as bottom-three candidates. I think Fulham are done and dusted, doomed to spend next year in the Championship. The rest, however, gets a little foggy; Sunderland are the next lowest, but have several games in hand and a talented manager in Gus Poyet. With home games against West Ham, West Brom, and Cardiff left to play, I can see them escaping relegation. They play Swansea at home on the final day of the season, and with the Welsh club likely to be safe by then, that fixture could play to their advantage nicely. Next is Cardiff, who I don't have quite as much optimism for. They still have to play Newcastle and Southampton on the road, and a final matchday faceoff with Chelsea doesn't favor them. The lack of strength in their squad is their ultimate undoing; hopefully Jordan Mutch, David Marshall, and Steven Caulker can find homes in the BPL next season, as all three are truly great players in an otherwise weak team. West Bromwich Albion will, in my opinion, be the third and final team to drop down this year, with tough games versus Spurs, Man City, and Arsenal still on the docket. Palace's win over Chelsea showed their resolve, and Norwich have just enough talent that both should avoid the dreaded drop this year.

It's sure going to be an entertaining final weeks to this BPL season, continuing the trend set by the ups and downs of the past few months. Here's to hoping we can come close to matching an ending exciting as Manchester City's last-minute title claim two years ago.

And, for what it's worth, I expect the clubs promoted to the BPL next year to be Leicester City, Burnley, and Derby County.

My Personal FIFA World XI

Earlier this week, the international governing body of soccer/football (depending on where you're from), FIFA, announced its annual World XI, a selection of eleven players the federation felt performed at the highest level throughout the calendar year. This year's team raised some eyebrows with several controversial choices, most notably Barcelona's Iniesta, Xavi, and Dani Alves, as well as Real Madrid center back Sergio Ramos. These picks seemed to be based off prestige than actual performance, as many (myself included) felt that none of these players were the best in their positions in 2013. Today, I'll be offering my choices for 2013's best players. For practical purposes, I'll be sticking with the 4-3-3 formation FIFA used.

If you wish, you can view FIFA's official squad by clicking here.

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich, Germany)

My choice for the year's best keeper lines up with FIFA's, as German goalie Manuel Neuer earns the nod. A courageously aggressive and stunningly precise goalkeeper, standing in net for the undisputed top dogs of 2013, Bayern Munich. He played a pivotal role in leading the Bundesliga side to a remarkable five trophies in 2013, as the squad were crowned champions of Europe as they ran away with the league title. The second half of the year was just as kind to Neuer, as Munich look set to once again finish atop the Bundesliga and have a good chance at repeating as Champions League winners. Crucial saves in last year's UCL final against league rivals Borussia Dortmund made the difference for Bayern, with Dortmund only managing to put one past the 6'4" Neuer with a penalty kick. Bayern Munich's 2013 was one of the best years for a single club in recent memory, and Neuer is a big reason why the team was so successful.

Honorable mentions: Thibaut Courtois, David De Gea, Hugo Lloris

World Cup 2014 - Top 10 Most Likely Winners

This week, Uruguay's draw with Jordan granted them the last spot in the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, the most watched sporting event on Earth. With all 32 teams set to compete, it's time to take an early look at which national squads are most likely to bring the trophy back to their home country next summer.

10. Portugal

Anything's possible for Portugal so long as Cristiano Ronaldo is leading their side. This past week's playoff second-leg against Sweden proved just that, as the dazzling winger slotted home a hat trick on top of his goal in the first leg. Other strong players in the squad include box-to-box midfielder João Moutinho and Sporting goalkeeper Rui Patricio. If Manchester United winger Nani can recapture the form he displayed a couple of years ago, Portugal will be a real force in the upcoming tournament.

9. Colombia

This South American nation's biggest star is undeniably AS Monaco's Radamel Falcao. Considered by many to be the best pure striker in the world, Falcao will have help up top from the likes of Jackson Martinez, currently at FC Porto, and James Rodriguez, a brilliant young attacking midfielder/winger who also plays for Monaco. The chemistry between James and Falcao should be stellar, as they'll have played a year of club and international ball together by the time June rolls around. Midfielder Fredy Guarin and defenders Christian Zapata and Pablo Armero will bring both strength and quickness to the squad, all three playing in Italy this season. The lineup does drop off a little after that, however, and Colombia might not have enough in them to make it farther than the quarterfinals.

8. Uruguay

Despite needing a playoff victory over Jordan to even qualify, Uruguay will be a force to reckon with in 2014. The clear strong point in the team is the attacking duo of Liverpool's Luis Suarez and Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani. Both bring great pace to the team as well as incredible on-the-ball skills and finishing ability. Veteran forward Diego Forlan may be 34 but shone in 2010's World Cup, so there's a chance he scores a few in Brazil next year. Team captain Diego Lugano heads the defense with help from Juventus player Martin Caceres and Diego Godin. Like Colombia, Uruguay pretty much rely on their strikers and lack any superstars in midfield or defense, and thus could very well fall short of the last tournament's fourth place finish.

7. Netherlands

The Dutch squad had a very successful qualifying process this cycle after reaching the 2010 final in South Africa, but admittedly had a very weak group in the UEFA qualifiers and have aged since losing out to Spain last tournament. The Netherlands are one of the oldest national teams going to Brazil, which has both benefits and drawbacks. Players like Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie, and Wesley Sneijder bring loads of experience against world-class opposition, but all three are somewhat injury-prone and slower than they used to be. RVP is undoubtedly one of Europe's best scorers, and Robben plays a pivotal role for a Bayern squad that won the Champions League last season, but Sneijder has dropped in form over the last year or so. Roma summer signee Kevin Strootman will look to fill that central midfield role if Sneijder struggles, as youngsters like Maro Van Ginkel, Adam Maher, and Leroy Fer will hope to break into the first team. Defense is, as with the other teams already mentioned, the biggest concern here. Johnny Heitinga has been seeing minimal play time at Everton since 2012, and will be extremely rusty come June. Gregory van der Wiel has talent but is also young and prone to error. To make matters worse, first choice keeper Maarten Stekelenburg has struggled mightly at relegation candidates Fulham this season, and may be dropped for fellow Prem goalies Tim Krul or Michael Vorm. A supremely physical team, the Netherlands definitely have a shot at the world title, but are far from the favorites.

6. Argentina

Lionel Messi is unstoppable for Barcelona (unless his quads have anything to say about it), but has yet to show the same immaculacy for his country. He failed to score for Argentina in South Africa, though he was credited with six assists in five games. Next summer, he'll most likely play as a center forward behind any combination of strikers Gonzalo Higuain, Carlos Tevez, or the red-hot Sergio Aguero. Aguero's teammate at Manchester City Pablo Zabaleta will anchor the back four. Javier Mascherano is used more effectively as a center back but may play midfield alongside Angel di Maria and Ever Banega. If Messi performs at the same level he does in La Liga, then Argentina could wreak havoc at Brazil 2014.

5. Italy

After unceremoniously bowing out in the group stage in 2010, failing to win a single game (in a remarkably easy group as well), Cesare Prandelli's crew look set to challenge for the World Cup in a few months. Extremely talented but equally unpredicable forward Mario Balotelli did well in the Euro 2012 matches as well as this past summer's Confederations Cup, but his giant ego and tendency to self-destruct could hurt Italy more than his ability on the pitch can help. Antonio Di Natale has retired from international play since the last World Cup, so Balotelli will look to Giuseppe Rossi and fellow AC Milan sparkplug Stephan El Shaarawy for assistance up top. The amazingly skilled and generally beloved Andrea Pirlo will be a force in midfield as well as on set pieces. Fellow Serie A veterans Daniele De Rossi and Ricardo Montolivo round out the central midfield roles. In the back, goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon provides leadership as well as skill, while defenders Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, and Giorgio Chiellini sit in front of him. Italy are one of the most well-rounded teams in the world, and should have a great chance to return to the glory of their 2006 victory after 2010's dismal performance.

4. Belgium

Belgium is everyone's favorite dark horse this World Cup, and how could they not be? Young strikers Romelu Lukaku and Christian Benteke have been nothing short of outstanding in the Premier League this calendar year, and the team in general is a joy to watch. Thibaut Cortois and Simon Mignolet may split time in net, and a star-studded midfield will see rotation between Eden Hazard, Maroune Fellaini, Moussa Dembele, and Axel Witsel, among others. Vincent Kompany is one of the best defenders on the planet when healthy, and Jan Vertonghen is no slouch either. The team could employ several different formations depending on the situation, with 3-5-2, 4-2-3-1, and 4-3-3 all possibilities.If head coach Marc Wilmots uses the flexibility granted to him effectively, Belgium could become the second consecutive first-time World Cup champions after Spain won their first ever trophy in 2010.

3. Spain

Spain dominated international soccer/football from 2008-2012, but in last June's Confederations Cup final, a strong Brazilian team fully dismantled the reigning world champs, exposing them to the rest of the world as vulnerable. Teams have had more time to adjust to their passing style of gameplay as more and more club teams have employed the so-called "tiki-taka" approach. Nevertheless, this is largely the same team that won in South Africa. Striker Alvaro Negredo has taken his game to the next level at Manchester City, and about half of the starting eleven still play together at a little club called FC Barcelona. Xabi Alanso, Juan Mata, and Sergio Ramos join FCB stars Gerard Pique, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Jordi Alba. Whether recently-benched Iker Casillas starts over Victor Valdes and Pepe Reina is a question worth pondering, but all three will contribute strong efforts. Spain are still a very strong side, but are not immortal as they appeared to be just four years ago.

2. Germany

The German national squad is one of the deepest in the world; if one player goes down injured, five more talented ones are waiting in the wings. Mario Gomez is a clinical finisher up top, and looks to fill the role Miroslave Klose shone brightly in during the tournament in South Africa. A stacked midfield utilizes Bundesliga stars like Bastian Schweinsteiger, Sven Bender, Thomas Muller, Ilkay Gundogan, Mario Gotze, Toni Kroos, and Marco Reus. Premier Leaguers Andre Schurrle and Mesut Ozil add playmaking ability to the aformentioned midfielding corps. Philipp Lahm can control a game both offensively and defensively when operating from the right back position, while center backs Per Mertesacker and Mats Hummels can shutdown enemt attacks with ease. Goalie Manuel Neuer is arguably the best in the world. In short, Germany have no weak link, and only one country prevents them from being the favorites for the upcoming world cup.

1. Brazil

After winning the Confederations Cup, all eyes are on the Brazil national team going into 2014. Having homefield advantage is an added bonus to a team already claiming the likes of Barcelona starlet Neymar, acrobatic keeper Julio Cesar, and world-class defender Thiago Silva. All three will play pivotal roles in the tournament if Brazil hope to win the title for a world-record sixth time. Neywar will play on the wing, as will strong-footed and aptly-named Zenit St. Petersburg stud Hulk, with one of Brazilian league strikers Jo and Fred sitting between them. They'll likely set up in a 4-3-3, with Luis Gustavo, Paulinho, and Ramires splitting time at defensive midfielder while Oscar, Hernanes, and Bernard share duties at CAM. Speedy PSG youngster Lucas Moura may take some of Hulk's minutes, and footballing legend Ronaldinho hopes to make a triumphant return to the Brazil squad next summer. The defense looks strong as well, lining up from left to right with Marcelo, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, and Dani Alves. Brazil are a frontrunner in every World Cup, and in 2014 they should be the frontrunner.

FIFA 14 Review

Rating: 8.6/10

FIFA is one of the biggest annual video game releases, and one I thoroughly enjoy. Today I will be talking about the pros & cons of the game and, as you can probably guess from the rating given above, the pros will strongly outweigh the cons. Let's dive right in.

Pros:

New Movement System
In previous FIFA games, one of the biggest complaints has been that success relies too much on sprint speed and other physical stats than skills like passing, dribbling, and shooting. Well, for FIFA 14, EA has revamped the way players move. Momentum has an increased effect, meaning turning while sprinting is much less accurate, and trying to control the ball while running full speed is realistically very difficult. Though pace still has considerable influence on the outcome of matches, it no longer dominates games and skill stats are just as essential as physical ones. Though the problem has not been completely removed, it has been reduced greatly, and the result is a more balanced and fun FIFA.

Career Mode Changes
Another part of the franchise that EA has changed drastically this time around is the way in which players fill the role of a manager and attempt to take their team to the top. The biggest and most noticeable change is the new Global Scouting Network. Where in the past you could search any player and know all of his statistics before trying to grab him on transfer, now much more effort is required in order to build a dream team. In FIFA 14, you must send out scouts in search of players to fill a role your squad needs, or to get information on a specifically designated player. The end result is much more rewarding, as it feels you really put in the work to get a good player rather than simply finding one by accident.

Soundtrack
Not deviating from past games, FIFA 14's soundtrack is impeccable as always. Standout tracks range from the dark loom of Nine Inch Nails' "Copy of A" (which I discussed in my full-length review of the band's new album, Hesitation Marks), to the upbeat bounce of Vampire Weekend's semi-rapped "Worship You," to the uplifting sounds of Dan Croll's "Compliment Your Soul." Filled with established acts and virtually unknown groups alike, this year's soundtrack will have you bobbing your head whenever you navigate the menu screens. Which brings me to my next point...

New Menu Interface
The choppy, slow menus of FIFA past are done away with this year, as EA elected for a more modern, smooth, sleek-looking system for the game's lastest edition. A seemingly minor change does make a significant difference, as you can more easily and quickly move from one part of the game to another.

Ultimate Team Changes
The game's most popular mode, the card-based Ultimate Team, is back in FIFA 14, with some minor yet helpful edits. First of all, you no longer need to have a designated formation for your players, allowing for more flexibility when trying to get new players into your squads. Secondly, the addition of the all-new chemistry styles cards allows for even more diversity among clubs, as you can choose to improve a player's certain attributes by applying the right chemistry style. Additionally, EA have brought back the more casual and less competitive single match feature, making it possible to try out new cards without facing the consequences of losing in more contested game modes. Lastly, some small changes have been made to the
auction market. Specifically, you can now search for a player by name, and can also compare the price of a player on the market to all of the other identical cards up for auction at the same time with the click of a button.

Cons

Overpowered Tactics

The biggest drawback right now to FIFA 14's gameplay is the clearly overpowered strategies present in the game, particularly finesse shots, over-the-top through balls, and headers. All three are insanely OP as of now, consistently resulting in easy goals about half of the time. This, however, is an easy fix, as a simple patch from EA can adjust the sliders just like that. In fact, the publishers have already pledged to fix the problems in the near future, which should solve the problem at least somewhat. But for now, it's an issue that can be frustrating, as you can easily lose a match you deserved to win thanks to a couple of cheap headed goals or unrealistic curved goals from 30+ yards out.

Laggy Menus

This comes not from personal experience, as I have yet to observe a delay in navigating menus in the game, but PS3 players have complained online about certain modes being unplayable thanks to game lag. Another problem that could be potentially patched, this concern will only become a major issue if EA fails to fix it in due time.

So that's it. As you can tell, I have few qualms with the new FIFA, which in general has been well-received by critics and the public alike. There are always those that complain, the ever-unsatisfied consumers, and inevitably trolls and over-zealous fans of rival game Pro Evolution Soccer who will rip the game online, but by and large the consensus is that FIFA 14 is another step in the right direction for the franchise. The next-generation release will probably be even better, too. I hope everyone enjoys the game, and if you haven't picked any of the series up before, FIFA 14 is a great place to start. So, if you'll excuse me, I have an Aston Villa career mode to get back to...

Premier League Table Predictions 2013/2014 Season

Now, for my first non-music-related post, my predictions for how the EPL table will look at the end of the season. With teams kicking off for the first time this Saturday, it's time to take a stab at how the year will play.

1. Chelsea
Even if they don't get Rooney, which it seems they will, they still have the firepower and the manager to pull this off. A loaded midfield and stellar squad depth will help Jose Mourinho work his magic during the 2013/2014 Premier League season. Player to watch: Romelu Lukaku

2. Manchester City
The loss of Carlos Tevez was essentially cancelled out by the additions of Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo and former Fiorentina forward Stevan Jovetic. New manager Manuel Pelligrini will have an arsenal of players at his disposal and will provide more stability than ex-skipper Roberto Mancini, so expect City to retain their table position from last year. Fernandinho may end up an expensive mistake, but that won't stop City from having another great season. Player to watch: Jesus Navas

3. Manchester United
RVP probably won't score as much as last season, Rooney is on his way out, a new manager already feeling the pressure and a lack of summer additions will end with United sliding down the table after last year's landslide league victory. If the team manages to pilfer Everton pair Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines, they may have a shot at repeating as champions. But so far Everton has remained resilient their efforts to hold on to the duo, so expect a squad very similar to last year's. Player to watch: David de Gea

4. Tottenham/Everton (Spurs if Bale stays, Everton if he leaves)
5. Tottenham/Everton (Everton if Bale stays, Spurs if he leaves)
This is where it gets tricky, with the transfer window still open at time of posting. If Everton lose Baines & Fellaini to United then it would be a moot point, but expect them to stay as Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has so far been adamant he won't sell. The transfer saga surrounding Gareth Bale is exhausting at this point, but if he leaves I doubt Spurs will have the scoring ability needed to qualify for Champions League football next season. Still, they've added great physicality in midfielder by purchasing Brazil's Paulinho, and other new additions Robert Soldado and Nacer Chadli will look to impress. Everton managed to finish 6th last year despite not having a striker who could score consistently, and have now gone out and gotten one in Arouna Kone. Having lost no starts from last season, and seeing the return of Magaye Gueye from loan in Ligue 1, the future looks bright for the Merseyside team. Players to watch: Nacer Chadli, Kevin Mirallas

6. Arsenal
Unless by some miraculous break of character Arsene Wenger snags pricey and controversial Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez from Liverpool, expect Arsenal to disappoint this campaign. It appears they'll soon be signing Luis Gustavo, but other than that the squad remains relatively unchanged, with  Yana Sonogo the only other player to be brought in this summer. It's doubtful Theo Walcott will score at the same year this year as last, and unless Suarez joins, Arsenal won't reach the Champions league this year. Player to watch: Carl Jenkinson

7. Liverpool
Regardless of whether Suarez stays or goes, Liverpool's inconsistencies will prevent them from progressing up the table. January transfers Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge started their Liverpool careers brightly, and Stephen Gerrard is unbendable in midfield. But a lack of midfielder depth and shaky defense will inhibit the squad this turn around. Player to watch: Simon Mignolet

8. Swansea City
Similarly to Everton, Swansea can only improve after adding a proven poacher to a maintained starting 11. Vitesse's Wilfried Bony could run rampant this year, and while Michu will most likely regress slightly this year, as seen by his performances near the end of last season, the st of the squad is balanced enough to help Swansea compete for European football in the Europa League. Jprdi Amat and Jonjo Shelvey can't hurt, either. Player to watch: Wilfried Bony

9. West Brom
The loss of Chelsea loaned Romelu Lukaku hurts, but the addition of veteran defender Diego Lugano will help solidify a previously weak defense. Player to watch: Shane Long

10. Norwich City
Chris Hughton is, in my opinion, the most underrated manager in the league, and a bevy of solid additions will help his squad reach new heights this upcoming campaign. Dutch box-to-box midfielder Leroy Fer, English starlet winger Nathan Redmond, and striking duo Gary Hooper and Ricky van Wolfswinkel, both with European football experience, will bolster a squad after the departure of Grant Holt. This team could easily finish up to 7th if they win a few important matches and play consistently. Player to watch: Leroy Fer

11. Sunderland
I think Paolo Di Canio will excel in his first full year as Sunderland skipper, and, like Norwich, the team has added a small army of players this summer. Juventus midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini, American striker Jozy Altidore, and Lazio defender Modibo Diakite will all help improve the team that was nearly relegated in 2012-2013. Outgoing keeper Simon Mignolet was replaced with Vito Mannone from Arsenal, a downgrade, but not much of one. Player to watch: Jozy Altidore

12. Southampton
Two big additions in Dejan Lovren and Victor Wanyama will fortify the Saints during their second year back in the BPL. Young fullbacks Nathaniel Clyne and Luke Shaw could blossom this season and hold their own as some of England's most promising youngsters.  Player to watch: Adam Lallana

13. Aston Villa
Danish center-back Jores Okore could be the most underrated transfer of this summer. A strong, quick defender who is fantastic on the ball, Okore can do everything and can singlehandedly control the tempo of a match. Other new players, such as Nicklas Helenius, as well as the growing experience of a young squad, will help Villa improve upon last season's near-bottom finish. Plus, Christian Benteke isn't going anywhere. Player to watch: Jores Okore

14. Fulham
Playmaker Adel Taarabt, Dutch keeper Martin Stekelenburg, and Spanish defender Fernando Amorebieta will help make one the league's most boring sides a little more exciting, but expect more of the same from a Fulham team that lacks an identity. Player to watch: Dimitar Berbatov

15. West Ham
A team that overachieved last year, the Hammers are still a solid team with players like Kevin Nolan and Mark Noble defining the word "consistency." If Andy Carroll can stay off the injured list then maybe West Ham will make strides, but their EPL honeymoon looks set to end with the upcoming year.

16. Cardiff City
The Bluebirds ran away with the nPower Championship last year, and have made several solid transfers by bringing in the likes of Steven Caulker, a proven BPL defender, and Andreas Cornelius, one of Europe's greatest diamonds-in-the-rough. Player to watch: Andreas Cornelius

17. Newcastle
A team full of injury-prone question marks and an accused rapist does not make for a solid Premier League team. Loic Remy is the only new addition worth noting, and he may not even get the chance to play this season. Yohan Cabaye could be on his way out, and unless my prediction is wrong, so too could Alan Pardew.

18. Hull City

They've been able to bring in some solid players, such as Danny Graham and Yannick Sagbo, but I see Hull just falling short of avoiding relegation this year. Player to watch: Yannick Sagbo

19. Stoke City

Strike one: No obvious scoring threats

Strike two: A weak midfield unimproved after the team only brought in defenders, by far their strongest position already.

Strike three: Mark Hughes is your manager.

Player to watch: Brek Shea

20. Crystal Palace

It's Crystal Palace. Seriously, though, they lost their best player by far to Manchester United in Wilfired Zaha, and have failed to sign him back on loan. The loss of Andre Moritz doesn't help, nor does the lack of impact player additions. Player* to watch: Ian Holloway (I know he's a manager, but possibly the most entertaining one in the world.)