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Pastimes : Soccer World Cup MLS Euro Champions League etc
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To: X Y Zebra who wrote (1379)6/13/2002 12:03:28 AM
From: Dayuhan  Read Replies (2) of 5130
 
Brazil and Spain have looked strong, but neither has come up against a first-rate opponent. Spain, in particular, have to face questions about the central defence; neither Hierro nor Nadal is known for excessive speed.

I was thinking this morning about the flat performances turned in by so many of the top-ranked teams and players. One thing that struck me is that between domestic leagues, domestic cups, European competition and WC qualifiers, a lot of these players have been in over 70 competitive games since last September. Some of the top players are missing altogether due to injuries. Others are playing hurt or just plain tired. Even Brazil's Roberto Carlos, long believed to be indestructible, has been ordered by doctors to sit out the Costa Rica game due to muscle fatigue.

I wonder if the sport is pushing the top players beyond the limits of human endurance. Of course everyone wants to see them, and the money side demands maximum exposure, but how much can one individual take?

I wonder if FIFA will ever consider relaxing the 3-substitution rule, at least for league play. That would allow second-string players to see more game time, and also allow coaches to remove top players if a game is well in hand, a situation that often sees frustrated players on the losing side resorting to dangerous tackles.

I don't suppose it would do much, but I'm starting to think that something will eventually have to be done.
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