Denison Cabral FUTSAL

ADC team in Malaysia for the 2011 Tiger Street Football finals

2011-09-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

The ADC finally arrived in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the 2011 Tiger Street Football final tournament.

After 32hrs of travelling from Washington DC, Dallas, Milwaukee and Baltimore, the first group (Hewerton, Denison, Sagu, Fabio & Ricardinho) finally checked in into Hilton Hotel in the sixth most visited country in the world. Coach Cabral and Carlos are expected to check in sometime this evening after travelling a little longer sence both will be coming from Florianopolis, Brazil.

"Coming to Malaysia for the Tiger Street Football tournament is a ones in a lifetime opportunity for all of us! We are ready and excited to get on the court this weekend. We have a great group of guys with a lot of talent and experience playing the game. It is truly amazing to get this far from home and have the opportunity to play against some of the best street football teams and players in the world... We just need some sleep and the boys will be ready! We are here to WIN" said the veteran and team captain Denison Cabral.

ADC Florianopolis is the Street Football CHAMPS AGAIN!!

2011-05-22T05:51:00.000-07:00

After a great first round with a strong competition faced from the first game, ADC Florianopolis made it happend again.

With a record of (1W - 2T - 0L), ADC qualifided in second in the bracket facing a very strong local team in the playoffs. The team had to play the local champs from the year in Futsal in the Finals winning by the score of 4-1.

Hewerton with 2 goals, Ricardinho 1 goal and Carlos scoring the winning goal, ADC Florianopolis is the winner again in the Tiger Street Football played in Thailand this weekend.

"Great tournament, better and stronger competition this time, we really had to bring our best game. We are happy and looking forward to play the next one... GO ADC Florianopolis!" Commented forward Hewerton after the final game.

THE NEXT ONE IS IN VIETNAN!!

More pictures on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Denison-Cabral-Futsal-Academy/123412447715999

Tiger Street Football in Thailand

2011-05-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

"When this group is on the off the field, be ready for all the jokes and a lot of fun...

On the field be ready for hard work, pride and a lot of respect for the game! Off the field, music, jokes and fun, fun and more fun. Thailand we are here!!!"

Coach Davis Cabral from ADC Florianopolis had to say after a long staying at the Bangkok's International airport. Last night.

Photo: Hewerton (Milwaukee Wave), Sagu (Baltimore Blast), Fabio (ADC Florianopolis), Ricardinho (Omaha), Denison (ADC Florianopolis),

Prof. Cabral (ADC Florianopolis) and Carlos (ADC Florianopolis)

Team ADC arrived in Thailand and is ready for the Tiger Street Football!

2011-05-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

"Everyone is ready to play the second tournament in Asia and looking forward to have a great time exploring the culture on and off the field". Goalkeeper Sagu said at the Airport in Bangkok

After 30hrs of travelling, the group from US (Denison, Fabio, Ricardinho and Heverton) just arrived in Thailand. Coach Cabral and Carlos arrived from Brazil after stoping in Sao Paulo, NY, Dubai and Thailand... YES, a long way from Florianopolis Brazil and over 40 hrs of travelling.

"It was a long trip but make made to our final destination safe and it was great to see everyone again. We are looking forward to play again and hopping to win!" Denison Cabral commented after arriving at the Pathumwan Princess Hotel in Bangkok this evening.

More on the way from Bangkok with pictures and videos.

GOD BLESS AND Go ADC!!

On the way home and a LONG WAY!!!

2011-04-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

MORE PICTURES AND SOME VIDEOS ON THE WAY...

Great win boys!!

2011-04-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

2011 International StreetFootball tournament in Singapore CHAMPIONS!!!!

Quarter final game vs. Singapore 5-2

Semi Final game vs. Vietnam 7-0

Final game vs. Vietnam 5-4

WHAT A GREAT EXPERIENCE!!!

More info from Singapore

2011-04-15T12:54:00.001-07:00

The trip to Japan was the biggest challenge..., after 16hrs 32mins flight we had a GREAT TEST AND WE ALL PAST : )

Wait!!! The next one was 7hrs 20mins to Singapore lol

Ricardinho, Carlos (Zanata), Sagu, Fabio, Denison, Hewerton and coach Cabral having some STRONG COFFEE IN Japan

THE FOOD ON THE FLIGHT WAS JUST GREAT!!! Healthy and fresh. Everyone had a lot of space on the United 777-200 GIANT plane to sleep, eat well with great movies on board.

Let me get some sleep... We will meet for breakfast in 3hrs. LOCAL TIME NOW IS 4AM

Scrimmage/ exhibition game vs. the event organizers/ media at 4pm Singapore's time

MORE PHOTOS ON THE WAY!!!

Just arrived in Singapore for the International Tournament

2011-04-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

Just arrived in Singapore after 28hrs of travelling!!! YES, we are done with planes, airports and movies lol GREAT FOOD ON THE FLIGHT!

http://www.tigerstreetfootball.com.sg/about-the-event/about-tiger-street-football.html

U.S. Ends FIFA Futsal World Cup with 8-1 Loss to Portugal in Rio de Janeiro

2008-10-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Oct. 6, 2008) - The U.S. concluded its 2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup with an 8-1 loss to Portugal on Monday at the Maracnãzinho in Rio de Janeiro. More to follow...

U.S. Eliminated from FIFA Futsal World Cup Following 5-3 Loss to Thailand

2008-10-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

Goals from Mike Apple, Denison Cabral and Pat Morris Are

Not Enough to Stop a Tough Thailand Team

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Oct. 4, 2008) – The U.S. Futsal National Team saw its dreams of qualification for the second round of the FIFA Futsal World Cup come to an end against Thailand on Saturday with a 5-3 loss in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Keith Tozer's side put up a spirited effort, fighting back to tie the match early in the second half after falling behind by two goals, but couldn’t hold back the deserving Thai side. Despite the loss, the U.S. will still play one more group game against Portugal on Monday, Oct. 6. Kickoff for the game is at 9:30 a.m. ET and can be seen tape delayed on Galavision at 12:30 a.m. ET on Oct. 7.“I thought we did a great job to fight back for those two goals, but individually we broke down on defense with some mistakes,” said Tozer. “It's disappointing because it has happened to us in the first two games as well. [After Thailand's 3rd goal] We all felt like we could fight back because we dug out of that two goal hole from the first half. Thailand were sharper though and they hurt is with their speed and counter attack.”

Knowing that three valuable points were within range, Thailand were galvanized and soon extended their lead when Panuwat Janta knocked home a corner kick by Eakapong Suratsawang.With the U.S. pushing for a goal, The Elephants iced the game through Khumthinkaew's low near post shot. There was still time for Pat Morris to grab a goal from Ptah Myers' inbounds pass, but it was too little, too late.

Italy Dispatches U.S. Futsal National Team, 6-1, in Rio de Janeiro

2008-10-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

RIO DE JANEIRO (October 2, 2008) – Six unanswered goals from Italy handed the U.S. National Futsal Team a tough defeat at the FIFA Futsal World Cup from the Maracanazinho in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Despite taking the lead in the first half, Keith Tozer's side was unable to hold on to the lead, and eventually the quality of the Italy side proved to be too much for the U.S. Mathematically there is still a chance of qualification for the next round, and the U.S. takes the court again on Saturday, Oct. 4 when they clash with Thailand.

Not a good day against the experienced and very strong Italian team...

“I can't fault the guys' effort; it was much better than we had in the first game,” said Tozer. “We played with passion, heart and did all the things we talked about. Credit goes to Italy though because they're a great team. We had the 1-0 lead but we gave up the ball in the middle for the goal and then they took advantage of a two-on-one. It set us back and gave them energy. That was a huge turning point and we just couldn't get back up the ladder."

U.S. Futsal National Team Falls, 5-0, To Paraguay in Opening Match of FIFA Futsal World Cup

2008-10-01T18:49:00.000-07:00

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Sept. 30, 2008) – In a hard fought opening match of the FIFA Futsal World Cup, the U.S. Futsal National Team lost to Paraguay, 5-0, at the Maracanãzinho in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Three first half goals and plenty of possession from the South American team meant that there was no way back for Keith Tozer's squad after an early deficit. The U.S. now faces a quick turnaround before its next match in the FIFA Futsal World Cup, and faces Italy on Oct. 2 at 11:30 a.m. ET. ESPN360.com will broadcast the game live, while Galavision broadcast the match on tape-delay at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT on Oct. 3.

“It was disappointing but Paraguay was the better team today,” said U.S. head coach Keith Tozer. “They were a little quicker, a little stronger, and they scored goals on their counter attacks, which is one of their biggest strengths. For most of these guys it was their first World Cup game and I think the tempo and the physicality surprised us a little bit. We got our feet wet though, and its important now to move forward." The U.S. created the first meaningful chance of the game just seconds after the opening kickoff. A combination freed up Matthew Stewart just inside the Paraguay penalty area, and his left footed shot crashed off the post before being cleared. Minutes later, Paraguay broke through when Jose Luis Santander’s snap shot in the seventh minute caromed off the post and rebounded fortuitously back to the forward. Santander reacted quickest and shrugged off the challenge of forward Chile Farias before finishing under U.S. goalkeeper Jeff Richey. Paraguay got stronger throughout the half, with Richey making save after save to keep the U.S. close. A collision between defender Joe Hammes and forward Jamar Beasley freed up Jose Rotella for a breakaway, but Richey reacted well to take the ball from the Paraguayan's feet. Richey was again called into action, saving a Ferandez blast with his chest in the 16th minute. Eventually, Paraguay doubled their lead through a lightning quick counter attack in the 17th minute. Walter Villalba pounced on a loose ball and dribbled into space before slipping a pass to Fabio Alcaraz who finished with his first touch. With seconds remaining in the first half, Paraguay scored again, this time through Robson Fernandez. The burly forward took a Villalba pass with his back to goal, before turning exquisitely and smashing the ball into the roof of the net. Coming just 11 seconds before the halftime buzzer, the goal was a tough blow to take for the U.S. side, who trailed, 3-0, heading into the locker room. While the U.S. continued to persevere as they searched for their offense. Paraguay added two more goals in the second half, through Carlos Chilavert and Rene Villalba. Chilavert, the Paraguay captain, took advantage of a U.S. defensive giveaway to put his side four goals up. Villalba tallied the final score when he stole the ball from Richey and finished into an open net in the 39th minute. With just one day off before the U.S. faces Italy on Oct. 2, Tozer insists that the focus for the team must be on moving forward. “I think it can be seen as a benefit [to play Italy so soon],” said Tozer. “We'll watch this tape to see what we can learn, but we definitely will put this game behind us as we get our game plan together [for Thursday's match against Italy].” One positive that the U.S. can take from the game is the knowledge that an opening game loss does not necessarily mean the end of a World Cup campaign. Tozer needs look no further than his 2004 team, which qualified for the second round after succumbing to defeat in the first match, 6-3, against Italy. “Unlike in 2004, we have four matches this time around so there's still a lot of Futsal to be played,” Tozer said. “In a group this tough we couldn't really expect to go 4-0 even if we would have liked to. We just need to put this behind us and learn from it. The big thing is that we've now played in a World Cup game. We have that experience and I think we will learn from it going forward." In other group action, Italy defeated Thailand, 1-0, putting them second in Group B behind Paraguay. The U.S. sits behind Thailand in fourth place while Portugal will play their first match Oct. 2 against Paraguay.

Today's training was the last session before tomorrow's opening game against Paraguay.

2008-09-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

The mood within the team is one of both excitement and anticipation - what else would you expect going into the last night before the World Cup?

GOOD LUCK USA ON YOUR FIRST GAME!!

The coaches have been preparing the guys for Paraguay, and today they worked on some counter attacking formations and defensive shape. Of course there was the customary crossbar challenge, as well. It didn't last long though - Chile Farias hit the bar with the first try. That makes it two on the trot for Chile, who also took Friday's contest as well.

After training we headed back to the hotel. We headed to lunch but not before the team went for a quick stop in the ocean. It was a slightly chilly dip, but all the more refreshing for our guys. Today is the first really sunny day that we've been in Rio and the good weather should continue for the rest of the week. Sometimes you just wish futsal was played outside! Oh well. It's amazing to think that after all the preparations the team has done, the next time they step on the court will be for the FIFA Futsal World Cup...

US team arrived at the Maracanã Stadium. Flamengo is playing!!

2008-09-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

The team visited one of the most famous stadiums in the world...

"For the first time in my life I am here whatching my favorite team playing a live game. I have not words to describe this experience... It was one of my dreams as a soccer fan and it came on the right time, with some great people (my teamates) and with a great result (2x1 Flamengo, Denison's favorite team)". Said Cabral

Our team arrived at the Maracanã about half an hour before game time and though the weather wasn't the best, the Flamengo fans were still out in full force. The roads leading up to the famous stadium were packed with supporters dancing, singing, and..um..drinking. A lot.

Our team was fortunate enough to be provided a suite in which to watch the game, and we walked around the upper level of the stadium to get to our box.

The noise of the crowd was steadily increasing and as the game drew closer, the fans were getting ready. Big flags of all their heroes - #10 Zico (Denison's all time favorite player), Junior, Dida, and more - were unfurled and readied for the walkout of the teams.

2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup ON TV!!

2008-09-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

Galavision will be airing the FIFA Futsal World Cup on tape delay.
Here is the schedule:

Tuesday September 30
Paraguay vs. USA
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Wednesday October 1
Guatemala vs. Egypt
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Thursday October 2
USA vs. Italy
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Saturday October 4
Brazil vs. Russia
8p – 9:30p ET / 5p – 6:30p PT

Sunday October 5
Spain vs. Czech Republic
5:30p – 7p ET / PT

Monday October 6
Portugal vs. USA
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Tuesday October 7
China vs. Guatemala
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Wednesday October 8
Brazil vs. Cuba
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Thursday October 9
Argentina vs. Guatemala
12:30a – 2a ET / PT

Once again the games are TAPE DELAYED.

FEEL FREE TO ASK QUESTIONS AND POST COMMENTS TO YOUR FAVORITE PLAYER OR STAFF MEMBER.

Friday in Rio de Janeiro... US training at the Maracanazinho Arena

2008-09-26T13:34:00.001-07:00

Friday, September 26, 2008

See anything interesting about the official FIFA Futsal World Cup logo?That's right - it's a PARROT! South America is well known for having a large diversity of parrots and in fact the famous Estadio do Maracanã is nicknamed after the bird with the same moniker.What facilitated the discovery of the Parrot logo was our introduction to Parangolé, the FIFA Futsal World Cup mascot. Apparently, South America loves a good parrot mascot - if you'll remember last year Guaky was the mascot of the 2007 Copa America in Venezuela.

Maracanazinho Arena

Training session this morning

Our drive to training today featured lots of traffic, which seems about par for the course in Rio. We drove through Leblon and Ipanema, two of the most famous beachside neighborhoods in Rio. Even through the thunderstorm you can see that these are the places to be. We detoured away from the beach and just blocks from the sand the streets are lined with Cafes and boutique stores.

The U.S. Futsal National Team has arrived in Rio de Janeiro for the FIFA Futsal World Cup

2008-09-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

Thursday, September 25, 2008

As we were leaving for training today, Ptah Myers was flagged down by an onlooker outside of our hotel. Turns out, the bystander was a salesman and he wanted to show us what he had on offer: license plates.According to Denison Cabral, who was doing the translating, one custom named U.S. Futsal National Team license plate can be yours for just 40 Brazilian. Apparently receiving random trinkets outside of your hotel is a very South American thing.

Anyhow, the license plate dealer has given the guys some time to make their decisions - and chances are that asking price isn't final either... (From left to right in the picture -Team Doctor Nicholas Romansky, Cabral, and Myers)

Tozer Announces 14-Player Roster for FIFA 2008 Futsal World Cup in Brazil

2008-09-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO (Sept. 16, 2008) - U.S. Futsal National Team head Coach Keith Tozer has named a squad of 14 players for the upcoming FIFA Futsal World Cup in Brazil.

"I'm excited about the team that we're taking to Brazil," said Tozer. "We are a young team, not only in age but in experience. However, at the same time we are a talented team that can only get better the deeper we go."

Of the 14 players named to the FIFA World Cup squad, 11 took part in June's CONCACAF Futsal Championship, where the U.S. finished third. The team will travel to Brazil on Sept. 24, stationing itself in Rio de Janeiro ahead of the tournament's opening. The U.S. will train in the city and play a friendly with current World champions Spain on Sept. 28.

Two players on the squad have prior Futsal World Cup experience, with forward Jamar Beasley and defender Pat Morris having played in the 2004 tournament in Chinese Taipei. Beasley, a rookie with the team, concluded the tournament with two goals and two assists, while Morris also a contributed a goal in the USA’s seventh place finish in Asia. Midfielder Matthew Stewart lead the U.S. with five goals in the CONCACAF Championship, while goalkeepers Jeff Richey and Nick Vorberg split time in the net during the tournament.

Midfielder Denison Cabral, himself a native Brazilian, captained the side throughout the tournament and he will reprise the role for the team in the World Cup.

U.S. Futsal National Team

2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup

Roster By Position

Goalkeepers (2): Jeff Richey (Fort Wayne, Ind.), Nick Vorberg (Grants Pass, Ore.)
Defenders (2): Joe Hammes (Cedarburg, Wis.), Pat Morris (Philadelphia, Pa.)
Midfielders (6): Denison Cabral (Florianopolis, Brazil), Andrew Jacobsen (Palo Alto, Calif.), Ptah Myers (Columbus, Ohio), Sandre Naumoski (Philadelphia, Pa.), Andy Rosenband (Hammond, Ind.), Matthew Stewart (El Paso, Texas)
Forwards (4): Mike Apple (Akron, Ohio), Jamar Beasley (Fort Wayne, Ind.), Chile Farias (Los Angeles, Calif.), Brett Wiesner (Brookfield, Wis.).

U.S. Futsal National Team Staff
Head Coach: Keith Tozer
Assistant Coach: Vilmar "VAVA" Marques
Goalkeeper Coach: Mark Litton
Team Coordinator: Bryan Koch
Team Doctor: Dr. Robert Lim
Team Doctor: Dr. Nicholas Romansky
Athletic Trainer: Tony Rill
Equipment Coordinator: Marthell Vazquez
Press Officer: Mark Liskevych

____________________________________________

Group B - Italy, Portugal, Thailand, Paraguay and USA.

Sept. 30
Paraguay vs. USA
Rio de Janeiro
11:30 a.m. (ET)
Oct. 2
USA vs. Italy
Rio de Janeiro
11:30 a.m. (ET)
Oct. 4
Thailand vs. USA
Rio de Janeiro
9:30 a.m. (ET)
Oct. 6
Portugal vs. USA
Rio de Janeiro
9:30 a.m. (ET)

USA Futsal Captain Denison Cabral Story

2008-09-15T19:14:00.000-07:00

Denison Cabral has never been one to back down from a challenge. Having arrived in the United States from Brazil in 1994, the Baltimore Blast’s all-time leading point scorer is adept at starting things from scratch.
In the past two years, the diminutive five-time Major Indoor Soccer League All-Star has taken on one of his toughest challenges yet, building the popularity of soccer’s lesser-known cousin, futsal.

Four Denison Cabral Futsal Academy teams finished in the top three of their age groups in July's Futsal National Championship.(Denison Cabral Futsal Academy)
Extremely popular in many parts of the world, futsal is an indoor, faster-paced version of soccer. The five-on-five matches are played on courts similar to those used for basketball. Instead of throw-ins there are kick-ins, and unlike the indoor game played by the Blast, there are out-of-bounds lines, so players are unable to rely on walls to save any errant passes or shots. These rules form a sport that stresses a player’s touch and overall confidence on the ball, as opposed to pure athletic ability.
Hoping to capitalize on the high-scoring nature of the sport, Cabral formed the Denison Cabral Futsal Academy (DCFA) in 2007. Based out of the Maryland SportsPlex in Millersville, of which Cabral is part owner, DCFA houses competitive club teams for boys and girls ages 10-19.
“Everywhere all over the world they play futsal,” Cabral said. “I played futsal my entire life before coming to America to play indoor. Before, there were tournaments to participate in but not too many real leagues.”
Guided by his many years of futsal experience, Cabral did not take long to have his teams reach a level of success to which he is accustomed.

Denison Cabral
During July’s Futsal National Championship, played at the Baltimore Convention Center, four DCFA teams finished in the top three of their age groups. The girls under-12 team, DCFA Flamengo F.C., took home the club’s only gold medal of the competition.
While most American sports fans are unfamiliar with futsal, Cabral is not surprised by the growing popularity of the sport.
“It’s unbelievable to see how much people like the game,” he said. “It takes one time to play. You play it maybe one season and then we have kids in our club who prefer to play year-round, who would even quit playing outdoor.”
According to Cabral, the key to futsal’s newfound success in the area is how it keeps each player in the middle of the action. “In outdoor, with 11 players, you can be 50, 60, 80 yards away from play … you’re not really involved," Cabral said. "In futsal, you’re more involved. At any time you can get a shot, at any time you can block a shot, at any time the ball is close to your feet.”
With such close quarters, players must learn to handle the ball with care and confidence.
“You get a better touch, you get better control,” Cabral said. “You see the top players in the world outdoors -- Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Kaka, [Landon] Donovan -- all of them have futsal backgrounds. Those guys played futsal when they were younger, and you see the difference in foot skills.”
Apart from the immediate success of DCFA, Cabral, who became an American citizen last year, has used futsal to elevate his own career. In September and October, he will represent the United States in the FIFA Futsal World Cup, held in his home country of Brazil.
“I was born in Brazil but today, with the citizenship, I’m an American, and I play for the futsal national team and I serve as the captain,” he said. “That’s a dream, that’s how far you can go.”
Cabral hopes the young members of DCFA will share his dream of international success. “I know all of our kids think that one day they can be the one playing for the national team," Cabral said. "And why not?”

Four Denison Cabral Futsal Academy teams finished in the top three of their age groups in July's Futsal National Championship.(Denison Cabral Futsal Academy)

Source http://www.pressboxonline.com/

U.S. Comes from behind to Beat Japan, 2-1, in Milwaukee

2008-09-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

MILWAUKEE (Sept. 14, 2008) - Two second half goals from Jamar Beasley spurred the U.S. National Futsal Team to a comeback victory over Japan on Sunday at the Kern Center.

Kogure and Takahashi, who both play professionally in Spain, were unavailable for Friday's game against the U.S. and just arrived in the Japanese camp yesterday. However, their quality was apparent, and early in the second half, Kogure was the architect of the game's first goal.In the 26th minute, Japan put together a patient attacking move that culminated in Kogure feeding Yuki Kanyama in the center of the court. Kanayama took one touch before firing into the roof of the net from ten yards out to give Japan the lead. The advantage was just reward for the visitors, who had rattled the U.S. with their excellent possession in the early second half.

However, the U.S. response was admirable, and five minutes later they were level.

Friday night's draw saw the U.S. score twice from set pieces and on Sunday they were at it again. From a free kick, Denison Cabral's low pass was dummied by Pat Morris before it reached Beasley at the far post. The play completely fooled the Japanese defense, and Beasley was left with a simple tap in to level the score."It was a play that we use a lot, where we overload one side," said Beasley, who earned Sierra Mist Man of the Match Honors for his performance. "[Morris] dummied the pass and I was right behind the goalie, just like Coach Tozer drew it up. We executed it really well"

Eventually the extra attacker gamble would come back to haunt Japan, and in the 38th minute, the U.S. capitalized.

A turnover in the U.S. area brought a counter attack that left the Japanese out of position. Morris was able to square the ball to Beasley who finished past the despairing Rikanado Higa.The goal was Beasley's second of the game, and it provided the U.S. with a deserved win at the end of an exciting weekend in Milwaukee. Next up for the U.S. National Futsal Team, is the announcement of the roster for the FIFA World Cup. On Monday, Sept. 15, Keith Tozer will unveil the squad that will travel to Brazil later this month.

The U.S. has been drawn into Group B with along with Italy, Portugal, Thailand and Paraguay.

Overall, the games over the weekend provided the perfect buildup to the U.S.' departure for Brazil.

"With all the games and all the fans here cheering us on, this weekend has been a big boost for us," said Beasley, "from here we're just going to keep moving forward."

U.S. National Futsal Team Draws Japan, 4-4, in Thrilling Game in Milwaukee

2008-09-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

Milwaukee (Sept. 12, 2008) - The U.S. National Futsal Team played Japan to a 4-4 draw.

A Japan tying goal with just seconds left in the game made for a tough end to a busy day for the U.S. team, who defeated club side NY Ecuador FC, 10-1, earlier in the morning. Japan was always going to be a stern test for Keith Tozer's side, and the U.S. head coach looked at the game in terms of of the team's growth ahead of the FIFA Futsal World Cup, which begins later this month."An experience like this is invaluable for our team," said Tozer. "We scored four really nice goals and I thought we defended really well at times throughout the game. There were a lot of positives to take and we'll dwell on those heading into the rest of the weekend."The U.S. took the game to their opponents early on. The match's high tempo allowed the U.S. to dictate the pace to Japan in the first few minutes of the game, and eventually the pressure told. The halftime score was 3-3, with both teams knowing full well that the goals were unlikely to be finished for the night.

Sure enough, after coming out reenergized in the second period, the U.S. again took the lead. Once more it was a dead ball situation that provided the breakthrough, with Joe Hammes backheel setting up Pat Morris for a clear shot at goal. Morris' blast was never going to be saved, and after 23 minutes the U.S. had restored its advantage. The U.S. tried to put the clamps on the Japanese attack and U.S. goalkeeper Brett Phillips repelled a series of difficult chances from the visitors. However, Inaba continued to cause problems and only the post came to Phillips' rescue in the 27th minute.In the 36th minute, Japan opted for a sixth attacker but still Brazilian Sergio Sapo's team could not find the desired breakthrough. Shot after shot flew wide of the U.S. goal but eventually the pressure would prove to be too much. With just seconds to go, Yuki Kanayama squared the ball across the goal for Maeda who composed himself to tap in the equalizer. In the end, the buzzer called time on what was probably a fair result for the teams, both of whom will be participating in the

FIFA Futsal World Cup starting later this month.

The U.S. kicks off it's World Cup campaign on Sept. 30, having been drawn into Group B with along with Italy, Portugal, Thailand and Paraguay.

"We were thinking three points and ended up with one point. It's something that we'll hopefully learn from when we go [to Brazil for the FIFA Futsal World Cup]," said Tozer who, despite the draw, stressed the numerous encouraging points on the night.

The U.S. faces Japan again on Sunday, with kickoff at the Kern Center scheduled for 1 p.m.

Day one in Brazil for the National Team

2008-09-04T18:45:00.000-07:00

Criciuma City, Brazil

September 04, 2008

This week has consisted of positive training and scrimmages against top Futsal clubs in Brazil. The following is a recap of games and an updated schedule of the US Futsal National team. The main goal is finishing the first part of pre-season in preparation for the 2008 Fifa Futsal World Cup in Rio De Janiero, Brazil beginning Sept. 30th.

The US team has played three matches challenging two professional D1 teams in the beginning of the week; UNISUL and UNISEC. Loosing the first game against UNISUL 6-0, the first place team in the professional Brazilian Futsal league, was difficult but a great learning experience for the group. The US team was loosing 2-0 before 3 minutes left in the match but after pulling the 5th attacker and looking to get the magic goal, the experienced Brazilian team countered scoring four additional goals. The Brazilians were surprised to see a hard working and solid defensive unit from such a young team. The goals were a result in simple mistakes which were reviewed the following day through an intense and positive training session conducted by head coach, Keith Tozer and assistant coach, Vava Marquez.

The second game was a definite improvement by the US side. The squad played with a more compact defense allowing only one goal before half time. During the second half, Sandre Namouski played a well weighted pass into the feet of Matthew Stewart who finished cleanly. The Brazilians were able to rebuddle with 3 more goals in the 2nd half, finishing the game 4-1. While the score may not have dictated the game, there were positives to take from the match.

The third game was a rematch against UNISEC. Again, the US side improved their abilities both offensively and defensively. The US was able to score first through a nice combination between Brett Weisner and Pat Morris. After leading the first half 1-0, the Brazilian side managed to score 2 goals in the second half, winning the game 2-1.

The past 3 games have been ideal for the US team in preperation for the Futsal World Cup. Each game presented different challenges allowing us to further improve our game. Each traning session and game, the team gained more chemistry and knowledge. These games in Criciuma have been nothing but positive and we look forward to getting a result Friday in Florianopolis.

After the Brazilian camp we will resume training in Milwaukee, WI. There we will play 4 games, 2 against the Japan national team and 2 against a talented New York side in order to finalize our preparation for the World Cup.

We appreciate all your support!

2008 U.S. Futsal National Championship in Baltimore

2008-07-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

The two top Futsal clubs in the state of Maryland put on a show at the Futsal Nationals this year. Denison Cabral Futsal Academy (DCFA) and Southern Maryland Futsal Club (SMFC) collect eight medals this weekend in Baltimore playing against some of the top Futsal clubs from all over the country such as MACSA (CA), LSTS Futsal (NJ), New England Futsal Academy, Manhattan Kickers, WI Futsal Academy, San Francisco Boys & Girls, Di Bufala Sport Club and others.

Under 11 Girls Division
Daynattiville(Champions)
**SMFC Wolverines (Second place)

Under 12 Girls Division
**DCFA FLAMENGO (Champions)
Explosion Fire (Second place)

Under 16 Girls Division
**SMFC U16's (Champions)
LSTS United (Second place)

Under 19 Women's Division
LES BOIS U17 ELITE (Champions)
**SMFC U19's (Second place)
**DCFA Palmeiras (Third place)

Women's Open Division
HPC EAGLES (Champions)
**SMFC (Second place)

Under 14 Boys Division
MOUNTAIN LIONS (Champions)
EXPOS (Second place)
**DCFA Corinthians (Third place)

Under 15 Boys Division
LSTS FUTSAL (Champions)
**DCFA U-15 Cruzeiro (Second place)

Thanks to the referee's for volunteering they're time and supporting the event. Come on ref!! lol (Just kidding) You guys did great, thanks again.

Hey futsal friends,
Let's take this opportunity and thank our Vice President of US Futsal and President of Maryland Futsal, Mr. James Oman for the great support and hard work. We appreciate his dedication and help for the success of the National Futsal tournament here in Baltimore for the first time ever! Thanks Mr. Oman :)

Thanks to all the volunteer's and the staff for your help and hard work.

THANKS US FUTSAL FOR THE GREAT TOURNAMENT! WE WILL BE BACK NEXT YEAR...

NOTE: Congratulations to MAGIC SANTOS (Boys U12
Champions) and CHARM CITY (Men's open Champions) both also from Maryland.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SEND US PICTURES OF THE TOURNAMENT AND INFO. ABOUT YOUR CLUB OR TEAM.

SMFC Place third in the Golden Cup

2008-07-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

Guarda City, Portugal (July 7, 2008)- The Southern Marland Futsal Club Men´s team placed third place after beating Angola (Africa) futsal team 9-7. After a slow start, SMFC was down 2-0 early, and went into the locker room down 3-2 at half time. The second half was controlled by SMFC, and did a much better job finishing their chances; and at one point SMFC were up three goals. The Angolans scored a couple of late goals, and after pulling their goalkeeper, SMFC scored a late goal to seal the win.
SMFC finished third behind 1st place Benfica (Lisbon, Portugal), and 2nd place Coimbra (Coimbra, Portugal). SMFC were also able to pick other individual honors along their way to receiving their third place medals; Mike Shifflet was named Most Valuable Goalkeeper of the tournament; Denison Cabral was named Most Valuable Player for the third place match, and Garfield Shaw was named Most Valuable Player for SMFC´s win over Limeirinha (Guarda, Portugal).

Trip to Portugal was a success for SMFC

2008-07-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

Guarda City, Portugal (July 7, 2008)-After losing a close first match to Coimbra Futsal Club (Coimbra, Portugal) 7-4, SMFC bounced back and beat Limeirinha (Guarda Portugal) 9-7, and finished second overall in their group. SMFC started out both matches down 2-0, and at times had problems defending both Coimbra and Limeirinha, but SMFC had no problems scoring goals; SMFC were able to score 13 goals in the two games.

SMFC Futsal team arrives in Guarda - Portugal for the Golden Cup tournament

2008-07-04T03:36:00.000-07:00

Guarda City, Portugal (July 4, 2008)- Happy 4th of July! The SMFC team arrived in Portugal late yesterday, after travelling nearly 24 hrs, and still trying to adapt to the 5 hr time difference. After the SMFC´s arrival, coach Danny took the team through a light training session last night, following dinner.
After a good night sleep, SMFC are getting resting today and preparing for the first game, tonight at 6pm, against Coimbra (Portugal), and the second game will be at 10pm against Limeirinha (Portugal).
To Follow the team, you can click on http://www.kebrostress.com/KEBROSITE/GoldenCup08/index.html. The next post will be tomorrow morning.

Tozer's U.S. Futsal squad still alive

2008-06-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

By: Charles F. Gardner
JS Online
Keith Tozer's excellent futsal adventure just keeps going and going.

The U.S. national futsal team extended its time on the court with a 7-1 victory over Panama in the third-place game of the CONCACAF championships, held last week in Guatemala City, Guatemala.

Despite not having a single returning player from its 2004 CONCACAF gold-medal winning team, the U.S. and coach Tozer qualified for the FIFA Futsal World Championships, to be held this fall in Brazil.

"If we had lost, the (U.S.) futsal program probably would have gone dormant," the Milwaukee Wave coach said of the importance of claiming the third and final regional qualifying spot. "Now we're hopping on the treadmill, and instead of jogging, we're in a high sprint."

Chicago Storm player and former Wave midfielder Matt Stewart scored three goals in the second half against Panama, and Philadelphia Kixx defender Pat Morris added two goals in the victory.

The U.S. defeated Haiti, 5-3, tied Panama, 1-1, and routed Costa Rica, 6-2 in the group stage of the tournament, but host Guatemala posted a 4-0 victory over the Americans in the semifinals. That set up the must-win game against Panama.

"Panama likes to drop back in a diamond zone defense," Tozer said. "So we decided to change strategy and drop back and counterattack. To make it work, we needed to get the first goal, and we did (a restart goal by Morris in the seventh minute)."
Tozer has coached the U.S. futsal team since 1996 and is now introducing a completely new set of players to the five-a-side game.

Baltimore Blast star Denison Cabral, a native of Brazil but now a U.S. citizen, is the captain of the squad. He grew up playing the game, but that's not the case for his teammates.

Also playing a key role on the reshaped squad is Detroit Ignition forward Jamar Beasley, brother of U.S. national team midfielder DaMarcus Beasley.

Cabral and Beasley sat out the semifinal vs. Guatemala due to yellow-card accumulation (two yellows meant a suspension).

The game was tied at halftime, but Guatemala scored twice in a 2-minute span before scoring twice more when Tozer pulled goalkeeper Nick Vorberg and went for a fifth attacker. Vorberg was the only Wave player on the squad.
"There was a crowd of more than 8,000, and I could not communicate with a player 10 feet in front of me, it was so loud," Tozer said. "They had drums, music. The atmosphere was electrifying."

The world championships draw is set for July 10, and a field of 20 teams will participate, with four groups of five countries each.

Tozer said he has spoken with U.S. Soccer Federation officials, and he has been given approval for a trip to Europe in late August and a trip to Central America in September for tune-up matches before the world championships.

"Our men's and women's national teams play more exhibition and friendly matches than any other federation in the world," Tozer said. "They've really gone out there to help our country in futsal."

U.S. takes third place in CONCACAF Championships

2008-06-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

U.S. Futsal Routs Panala 7-1; Secures Berth In FIFA World Championships

Stewart gets hat trick in 7-1 victory

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (June 8, 2008) — Scoring early to draw Panama out of its favored tight zone, then making it pay for coming out, the U.S. national futsal team defeated Panama 7-1 on Sunday in the third-place game of the 2008 CONCACAF Championships, qualifying for the FIFA World Championships in Brazil.

Pat Morris and Andy Rosenband did the first-half damage, then Matthew Stewart connected for three scores in the second half as the U.S. qualified for the worlds for the third time in four CONCACAF Championships. It is the Americans’ second bronze medal in the CONCACAF, but the first time three teams were taken from the region for the worlds.

“The futsal program was on a treadmill today,” said U.S. Head Coach Keith Tozer. “And if we’d have lost, it would probably be on speed no. 1. If we won, it would go up to 10. Now we’re full speed ahead to get ready for the world championships.

“I’m extremely proud of the guys to come here, finish 3-1-1, get a medal, but most importantly, do what we really came to do — for a non-futsal nation, be considered one of the top teams in our region. We look forward to the challenge in Rio de Janeiro in September.”

Following the deflating 4-0 loss to Guatemala in the semifinals, the U.S. was challenged to return to the form it showed in crushing Costa Rica 6-2 at the close of Group B play. And it would have to do that without two field players, Dan DeGeer and Ptah Myers, who were sitting out for card accumulations. While not closing down Panama as convincingly in the back end, the U.S. clearly responded well.

Morris beat Oscar McFarlane at the far post on a direct kick in the 7th minute, after Denison Cabral took the ball away and drew a foul just outside the arc on the right flank. Soon after, Panama began to extend its defense and even engage in some man marking. It was a tactic Panama never had to use in its 1-1 tie with the U.S. in group play.

Finally, in the 19th minute, the open floor proved beneficial to the U.S. Sandre Naumoski made a run down the left side, into the corner, and left a ball for Rosenband streaking down the middle. His one-time finish sent the U.S. into the break up 2-0.

“I thought the game plan, the guys executed to a T,” Tozer said. “The first time we played Panama, we pressured them full-court but couldn’t create any counterattacks because of our pressure. This time, we dropped the pressure to halfcourt to give us space to get in behind them, and it worked.”

While Panama was able to generate some chances in the second half, keeper Jeff Richey kept his sheet clean until the game was well in hand. Richey made 19 saves and allowed just four goals in three CONCACAF starts.

“Jeff played brilliant,” Tozer said. “He was brilliant in the Costa Rica game, then today he did a really good job of controlling the area, a good job of seeing the ball and making big saves when we needed it.”

Stewart scored the first of his goals at the end of a classic target play in the 24th minute. Mike Apple held firm just above the top of the arc and left the ball for Stewart. He made one move then chipped the ball over a sliding McFarlane to make it 3-0.

Captain Denison Cabral set up the fourth goal in the 29th, deking two defenders and McFarlane on the right flank, then sliding a pass between the defenders to Stewart in the box.

Rosenband’s steal lead to a disputed fifth goal by Beasley, whose shot struck the underside of the crossbar and went straight down, and Stewart and Morris closed out the U.S. scoring late. Stewart led the U.S. with five goals in the tournament.

Guatemala and Cuba will join the U.S. in Brazil from the CONCACAF region. Twenty teams, including host Brazil and defending champion Spain, will vie for the FIFA World Championship beginning Sept. 30 in Rio and Brasilia.

Participants: U.S. National Futsal Team vs Panama
Competition: CONCACAF Futsal Championships 2008
Location: Domo Polideportivo, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Date: June 8, 2008

1st 2nd Final
PAN 0 1 1
USA 2 5 7

Scoring Summary:
USA — Pat Morris, 7th minute
USA — Andy Rosenband, 19.
USA — Matthew Stewart, 24.
USA — Matthew Stewart, 29.
USA — Jamar Beasley, 36.
USA — Matthew Stewart, 38
PAN — Alfredo Phillips, 38
USA — Pat Morris, 38.

Thanks to you all, from the US FUTSAL National Team

2008-06-10T12:26:00.000-07:00

To the Futsal fans, friends and our families, we would like to thank you very much for your support during the 2008 Concacaf tournament in Guatemala. I am humbled by the confidence you showed in the team, your positive comments and all the support. We made to the 2008 Futsal World Cup in Brazil and we will be sharing with you all the scores, game stats and more videos from the tournament.

I enjoyed sharing with you the details and the info. about 2008Concacaf and now I will be posting info. about my next trip to PORTUGAL staring July 1st representing US and Maryland when we will be participating in this important and very competitive tournament involving some of the top Futsal teams in the World!

Please continue to let me know what you think and how I can help.

I also want to thank Matt Schroeder for helping me with all the blog setup and video posts.

US FUTSAL NATIONAL TEAM QUALIFIED TO FIFA Futsal World Cup in Brazil 2008 after the 7x1 win

2008-06-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

AFTER A GREAT US FUTSAL NATIONAL TEAM QUALIFIED TO FIFA Futsal World Cup Brazil 2008 after the 7x1 win vs. Panama this afternoon in Guatemala. Guatemala wins the 2008 Concacaf tournament in the penalty kicks vs. Cuba. More info. will be available soon

USA lost vs. Guatemala, but still contender for the World Cup Championship in Brazil

2008-06-07T17:41:00.000-07:00

Guatemala defeated USA by a score of 4:0 in the semi-final game in the 2008 CONCACAF Futsal Championship at the Domo Polideportivo this afternoon.

US Team advances to the Semi -finals of the 2008 CONCACAF (game story)

2008-06-06T14:31:00.000-07:00

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (June 5, 2008) — Keith Tozer has coached the U.S. national futsal team in 55 international matches over 12 years, including four CONCACAF Championships and two FIFA World Championships.

Thursday’s performance, he said, might have been the best of them all.

Forced to defeat Costa Rica or miss the final round of the CONCACAF Championships for the first time under Tozer, the Americans turned 40 minutes of heart, focus and strong defensive pressure into a 6-2 victory that propelled them to first place in Group B at Domo Polideportivo. They will face Guatemala at 4 p.m. Saturday in the semifinals. Cuba and Panama are in the other semifinal.

“It was a tremendous moment for U.S. futsal,” Tozer said, “and now, our job is not done. We really want to qualify for the World Championships, which will be our first goal in our first match on Saturday, and with a victory there, then we’ll go for the gold on Sunday.”

Cheered on for the third straight day by a handful of Marines stationed in Guatemala and exhorted by a sweat-soked Tozer throughout the match, the U.S. had plenty of heroes on the court on Thursday.

Six different players scored the goals. Matthew Stewart, whose miss of an open net at the end of Wednesday’s tie with Panama prevented the U.S. from advancing then, forced a turnover and fed Jamar Beasley for the game’s first goal in the 14th minute. Stewart also scored the fifth U.S. goal with another steal deep in the Costa Rica end.

“Matt brings so much heart and desire to the games that he plays in,” Tozer said. “Matt came back today and played a superb game.”

Newcomer Dan DeGeer, at 22 the youngest player on the U.S. roster, was pressed into service when Beasley received his second yellow card of the game in the 20th minute. All he did was score the eventual game-winner — again on a steal in the back end — and set up the final goal, by Denison Cabral.

Jeff Richey was credited with 32 saves just 24 hours after holding Panama to a single goal.

“I thought Jeff played an unbelievable game in goal, and we needed that,” Tozer said.

And it all was keyed by full-court defense so spirited that Costa Rica spent much of the game failing to advance the ball past the center line.

After Julio Cesar Mendez scored in the 20th minute to pull Costa Rica within 3-2, the U.S. controlled the second half. Mike Apple nearly scored in the 22nd minute when he struck the underside of the crossbar with a long shot, but it took until the 27th minute for the game to break open.

DeGeer simply stepped in front of a slow pass in front of the Costa Rica goal and one-timed it high past keeper Javier Alfaro before he could react. Four minutes later, Stewart made his second big play of the match and also went high to beat Alfaro. Finally, in the 32nd minute, Ptah Myers rolled a cross from the corner in front to DeGeer. His attempt was blocked but Denison Cabral cleaned up to seal the match.

Costa Rica employed the fifth attacker at that point, with 8:41 to go, but Richey and the U.S. defense allowed nothing.

Pat Morris and Sandre Naumoski, teammates on the Philadelphia KiXX, had the other two first-half goals for the U.S. Naumoski’s goal was his third of the tournament, best on the team.

“How we played today, especially against such a very, very good, experienced Costa Rican team — and not only win, but win convincingly — was just a fantastic win by the U.S. team,” Tozer said.

Participants: U.S. National Futsal Team vs. Costa Rica
Competition: CONCACAF Futsal Championships 2008
Location: Domo Polideportivo, Guatemala City, Guatemala

Date: June 5, 2008

Scoring Summary: 1 2 Final
CRC 2 0 2
USA 3 3 6

USA — Jamar Beasley 14th minute.
CRC — Daniel Colindres 16.
USA — Pat Morris 18.
USA — Sandre Naumoski 20.
CRC — Julio Cesar Mendez 20.
USA — Dan DeGeer 27.
USA — Matthew Stewart 31.
USA — Denison Cabral 32.

Lineups:
Costa Rica — 1-Javier Alfaro, 2-Daniel Colindres, 6-Michael Cordoba, 9-Marcos Carvajal, 10-Adony Vindas.
Subs used: 3-Luis Alejandro Paniaga, 4-Carlos Chavez, 5-Danny Aguilar, 8-Yanan Montoya, 11-Julio Cesar Mendez
Did not play: 12-Didier Herrerra
Not available: 7-Yefrid Ruiz
Head coach: Carlos Quiros

USA — 12-Jeff Richey, 4-Mike Apple, 5-Denison Cabral, 9-Pat Morris, 11-Matt Stewart
Subs used: 2-Dan DeGeer, 3-Jamar Beasley, 6-Andy Rosenband, 7-Ptah Myers, 8-Chile Farias, 10-Sandre Naumoski.
Did not play: 1-Nick Vorberg
Head coach: Keith Tozer.

US Team advances to the Semi -finals after a 6-2 win against Costa Rica

2008-06-05T17:50:00.000-07:00

2008-06-04T20:44:00.000-07:00

U.S. edges Haiti 5-3 to go out in front in CONCACAF Futsal Championships Group B

2008-06-03T22:40:00.000-07:00

Scoring balance, defensive pressure give Americans start toward defending gold medal

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (June 3, 2008) — The United States futsal team grabbed the early lead in Group B of the CONCACAF Futsal Championships today, holding off Haiti 5-3 to earn the full three points at Domo Polideportivo.

Panama and Costa Rica tied, 6-6, in the first Group B contest, putting the Americans in position to advance to the semifinals merely by winning one of their last two games.

Five different players scored for the U.S., who took a 4-1 lead early in the second half, then saw Haiti cut the margin to 4-3 before Matthew Stewart scored the clinching goal in the 39th minute.

“I don’t think we played our best game,” said U.S. Head Coach Keith Tozer. “I thought our passing wasn’t really that crisp at times. I don’t think our finishing was that good. Overall, our goal was to get three points, and that’s what we did.”

The U.S. game plan was to take the lead first didn’t pan out, as Haiti fired a long shot in the fourth minute that was deflected in front of the net and changed direction. Nick Vorberg had no chance to make the stop, and Haiti took the early lead in its first CONCACAF futsal match.

But the defensive pressure that Tozer sees as a hallmark of this team paid off just one minute later. Chile Farias forced a turnover and played some back-and-forth with Denison Cabral, leading to Cabral’s score in the fifth minute.

Sandre Naumoski scored his first international goal in his first game in the 11th minute, after Mike Apple drew a foul near the 10-meter spot. Naumoski’s free kick put the U.S. head to stay.

Another set piece led to a 3-1 advantage in the 16th minute. Pat Morris touched a corner kick into Cabral, who played it back to Morris. The defender rifled a left-footed cross to Jamar Beasley, and he volleyed it in at the back post. Morris (19 caps) and Beasley (18) are the two most experienced international players on the U.S. roster, and it showed on that play.

“Set pieces are a big part of the game of soccer, and we’ve got some great guys on the ball,” Tozer said. “Denison Cabral, Pat Morris, Chile Farias — they’re guys who can really strike the ball.”

When Farias rifled in a long shot after Stewart forced a turnover, it was 4-1 in the 26th minute and the U.S. looked to be in position to run away.

But Haiti countered in the 27th minute, then scored another deflected goal from distance in the 36th minute to create a tense situation for the Americans.

“We’re a very good team that presses the point of attack and, on all three goals, we did not step out quick enough,” Tozer said. “And when you don’t step out, it allows the shot, and then the deflection.”

But Stewart gave the U.S. a cushion with just under two minutes remaining at the end of a 3-on-1 break. The initial opportunity was saved, but a loose ball rolled in front with the keeper out of position, and Stewart poked it into the empty net.

“We feel that with the youth of our team, we will only get better as the tournament goes on,” Tozer said. “We had the opportunity to score more goals today. Our finishing wasn’t that sharp.”

The U.S. team next faces Panama at 12 p.m. local time, 2 p.m. ET, on Wednesday, June 4. The U.S. and Panama played to a 2-all draw in the 2004 CONCACAF Championships in the only futsal match the two countries have played. Panama is making its second appearance in the CONCACAF Championships.

Panama scored a stunning tie against Costa Rica on Tuesday in a breathtaking match. Panama led 4-0, saw Costa Rica scored six consecutive times, then tallied twice in the final 3 minutes to knot the score. A chance to win in the final minute barely eluded the Canaleros, when a shot at the back post caught just enough of the inside post to deflect out of bounds in the far corner.

Participants: U.S. National Futsal Team vs. Haiti
Competition: CONCACAF Futsal Championships 2008
Location: Domo Polideportivo. Guatemala City, Guatemala
Date: June 3, 2008

Scoring Summary: 1 2 Final
Haiti 1 2 3
USA 3 2 5

HTI — Edouard Voltaire
USA — Denison Cabral
USA — Sandre Naumoski
USA — Jamar Beasley
USA — Chile Farias
HTI —Edouard Voltaire
HTI — Elaicin Rigarden
USA — Matthew Stewart

Lineups:
USA – 1-Nick Vorberg, 5-Denison Cabral, 8-Chile Farias, 9-Pat Morris, 11-Matthew Stewart
Subs Used: 2-Dan DeGeer, 3-Jamar Beasley, 4-Mike Apple, 6-Andy Rosenband, 7-Ptah Myers, 10-Sandre Naumoski.
Did Not Play: 12-Jeff Richey
Head Coach: Keith Tozer

US Team wins the first game of the tournament - USA 5 x 3 Haiti

2008-06-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

Coach Tozer talks about the game plan for the first game Vs. Haiti

2008-06-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

Last scrimmage before the first game - CONCACAF Championships in Guatemala

2008-06-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

U.S. ROUTS CLUB TEAM IN FINAL FUTSAL TUNEUP
Keith Tozer’s squad opens CONCACAF play on Tuesday vs. Haiti

Guatemala City, Guatemala (May 31, 2008) — Watching his 1-year-old son fascinates Mike Apple. The low-maintenance tot has learned not to touch the TV and be gentle with the dog as he soaks up the words and actions of his parents.
Apple, a forward on the U.S. national futsal team, is growing in this sport in much the same way. He’d never played organized futsal before last month’s training trip to Miami and Brazil, yet will be counted on to provide points when the team begins the CONCACAF Championships here Tuesday against Haiti.
Apple assisted on four goals and scored one Saturday as the Americans routed Guatemalan club team Ferretaria el Trebol 13-0 in their final exhibition match.
A target forward for the Detroit Ignition of the Major Indoor Soccer League, Apple is seeing his first international action this year as part of Keith Tozer’s 12-man squad. His role is very similar to his MISL job, posting up in the attacking end and looking for runners off the ball.
“The toughest thing for me has been getting used to the smaller ball, finding it under my foot,” said the 6-foot-1, 190-pound Akron native.
He did it well Saturday, recording all his points in the first half as the U.S. rolled to an 11-0 halftime margin. He fed Pat Morris streaking into the area for the Americans’ second goal, assisted Chile Farias for the third and then set up goals 6 and 7 just 20 seconds apart. With 1:43 remaining in the half, he scored his goal on a pass from Sandre Naumoski.

“As far as the work ethic and the intensity, we wanted to take it up 3-4 levels from Friday, and we did that today,” said U.S. Head Coach Keith Tozer. “With that intensity, we moved the ball better on offense.”
Farias scored four goals and Denison Cabral added three goals and three assists for the U.S. Jeff Richey made seven saves for the shutout, including one 10-meter penalty shot.
“They’ve all made great strides,” Tozer said of his team. “We have five guys who had never played futsal before last month.”
Apple is one of those five, but — like a 1-year-old boy learning about this big world — is rapidly becoming comfortable.
“If a defender is going to stand behind me, I feel pretty confident that I can find someone running by,” Apple said.
The U.S. is in Group B with Haiti, Panama and Costa Rica. The top three teams advance to the FIFA Futsal World Championships in Brazil in October.

Participants: U.S. National Futsal Team vs. Ferretaria el Trebol
Competition: Exhibition
Location: Bremen Domo, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Date: May 31, 2008

Scoring Summary:

USA 11
Winasor 0

USA — Own goal, 1st minute
USA — Pat Morris, 4th minute
USA — Chile Farias, 7th minute
USA — Denison Cabral, 11th minute
USA — Chile Farias, 13th minute
USA — Andy Rosenband, 14th minute
USA — Ptah Myers, 14th minute
USA — Denison Cabral, 16th minute
USA — Denison Cabral, 19th minute
USA — Mike Apple, 19th minute
USA — Sandre Naumoski, 19th minute
USA — Chile Farias, 30th minute
USA — Chile Farias, 38th minute

Matt Schroeder
Director of Public, Media and Community Relations
Milwaukee Wave professional indoor soccer
O: (414) 908-6352
C: (262) 227-0342
F: (414) 224-9290

2nd scrimmage in Guatemala

2008-06-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

3rd Day in Guatemala... Go USA!!

2008-06-01T16:34:00.000-07:00

Day 2 Highlights

2008-05-31T14:16:00.001-07:00

We beat a local club team 7-1. Enjoy!

FUTSAL NATIONAL TEAM - 2008 CONCACAF

2008-05-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

CABRAL’S HAT TRICK LEADS U.S. TO EXHIBITION VICTORY

Futsal team wins first of two matches against local pro sides
Guatemala City, Guatemala (May 30, 2008)

Denison Cabral scored a hat trick and Ptah Myers added two goals as the U.S. national futsal team defeated Winasor 7-1 on Friday in an exhibition match at Bremen Domo. Winasor plays in the second division of Liga Nacional de Futsal Guatemala.Head Coach Keith Tozer’s emphasis on defense showed Friday, when the Americans allowed only a 40th-minute tally and created a number of goals and scoring opportunities by forcing Winasor to turn the ball over in its defensive half.“Whenever you play a game with the national team and come out with a win, I think that’s good,” Tozer said. “It was a good confidence-builder for our guys. Some of the things we worked on (during our training trip) in Brazil and here came out today.”Cabral, who plays for the Major Indoor Soccer League’s Baltimore Blast, opened the scoring in the 9th minute after Andy Rosenband forced one of those turnovers. Chile Farias set up Cabral’s 13th-minute goal. Another turnover in the half’s final minute led to some nice ball movement in the box, Myers finishing a pass from his Philadelphia KiXX teammate, Sandre Naumoski. Cabral also had an assist in the game, setting up Matthew Stewart in the 29th minute. Farias fed Naumoski after yet another forced turnover to make it 5-0 in the 34th minute.Winning goalkeeper Nick Vorberg initially thought he had his first futsal goal on a corner kick play in the 36th minute, but his one-time actually was redirected in front by Cabral. Vorberg played all 40 minutes in Friday’s exhibition.Myers closed the U.S. scoring in the 37th minute, before Winasor got its only tally. A second exhibition game is scheduled Saturday, before Tozer’s squad fine-tunes things before Tuesday’s CONACAF opener against Haiti at noon (2 p.m. EST). The U.S. is the defending CONCACAF gold medalist.

Participants:

U.S. National Futsal Team vs. WinasorCompetition: Exhibition

Location: Bremen Domo, Guatemala City, Guatemala

Date: May 30, 2008 Scoring Summary:

1st 2nd Final

USA 3 4 7

Winasor 0 1 1

USA - Denison Cabral, 9th minute

USA — Denison Cabral, 13th minute

USA — Ptah Myers, 20th minute

USA — Matthew Stewart, 29th minute

USA — Sandre Naumsoki, 34th minute

USA — Denison Cabral, 36th minute

USA — Ptah Myers, 37th minute

Winasor — 40th minute

Matt SchroederDirector of Public,

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Day 1 highlights

2008-05-30T17:26:00.000-07:00

Here is some video of the first day of training, along with some of my thoughts.

US Futsal National Team Info.

2008-05-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Thanks for visiting my new blog (OUR NEW BLOG...), I hope I can help you getting some updated info. about the US FUTSAL NATIONAL TEAM, send you some pictures and answer question about Futsal and the team. Here is some information about the team, the players and the competition as well. Please feel free to send your comment, ask questions to the coaches, players and the staff about our Futsal team. Each day after the games we will be posting the scores and some comments about the game.

U.S. Futsal National Team Head Coach Keith Tozer named 12 players to the squad which will compete during the CONCACAF Futsal Championship on June 3-8 in Guatemala City, Guatemala.

From Coach Tozer:

"We are really excited about the team going down there to defend our CONCACAF Championship and qualify for the World Cup, Tozer said. It brings back a lot of memories. Nineteen-ninety six was my first tournament as a head coach with the national team in Guatemala, and we won the gold medal there, so we're excited about going there again and I am also excited about the team that we are bringing down there."

The team is coming off a 10-day training camp in Brazil that included three matches against Brazilian club teams. The U.S. finished the trip with a 1-2-0 record.

That trip is invaluable, especially for a team that has played little or no futsal. It's a game that as you play, you get better, Tozer said.

"If you go to a tournament and you haven't had a trip it's very difficult. I really think that the Federation has done a fantastic job of getting us to do things like that and going down to the CONCACAF finals five days early is also going to be beneficial if we are going to defend this championship.U.S."

2008 Futsal National Team Roster by Position

GOALKEEPERS: Jeff Richey (Fort Wayne, Ind.), Nick Vorberg (Grants Pass, Ore.

DEFENDERS: Pat Morris (Philadelphia, Pa.) Ptah Myers (Columbus, Ohio),

MIDFIELDERS: Denison Cabral (Florianopolis, Brazil); Dan DeGeer (Portland, Ore.), Sandre Naumoski (Philadelphia, Pa.), Andy Rosenband (Hammond, Ind.), Matthew Stewart (El Paso, Texas)

FORWARDS: Mike Apple (Akron, Ohio), Jamar Beasley (Fort Wayne, Ind.), Chile Farias (Los Angeles, Calif.).

THE SCHEDULE FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS RELEASED BY COACH KEITH TOZER THIS EVENING:

Friday 30Th: Scrimmage Vs. Guatemala's top club team at 12noon.

Saturday 31st: Scrimmage Vs. Guatemala's top club team at 12noon.

Sunday 1st: OFF in the morning and film session in the evening.

Monday 2nd: Training at 10am and 4pm

Tuesday 3rd: Staring the CONCACAF Tournament.

US schedule for the tournament:

Date Opponent Kickoff
June 3 Haiti 12 p.m. MT
June 4 Panama 12 p.m. MT
June 5 Costa Rica 12 p.m. MT

June 7 Semifinals* 2 p.m. MT / 4 p.m. MT
June 8 Third Place * 2 p.m. MT
Championship * 4 p.m. MT