Pirlo for Ballon d'Or

The race for European Footballer of the year appears to be a two horse race: Messi and Ronaldo, but maybe there is a third player that deserves a look.

Last season Andrea Pirlo left AC Milan to sign with fellow Italian League superpower Juventus. The move paid off for the Old Lady and Pirlo. During the league season Pirlo was the midfield anchor that helped lead Juve to an undefeated season. That alone should put him near the top of the list for the European player of the year. People have to remember this was not a classic Juve team, which means he had to carry more of the load.

Now Pirlo is leading his beloved Italian national to team to success at Euro 2012. An average Italian team has made the semifinals with Pirlo leading the way. Pirlo has been their best player and his penalty against England will be remembered for years to come.



I know he has no chance but Pirlo should be considered. Anytime a player leads his team to an undefeated league season should be considered for this award.

Tailgating Flashback: National Pride

With Argentina returning to the United State to play tonight, its only fitting that OTWT takes you back to the last time the South American giants visited. They played the United State on June 7, 2008, when Messi was just a little kid.

The game ended 0-0 but a rain storm late in the match added to the fun. The OTWT Tailgating Crew was there and detailed all of the fun.

The Main Event: The Champions League Final

The build up for the Champions League final has already started and its clear what the main story line of the show piece event is going to be: Messi vs. Ronaldo. The Daily Mail has hit it right on the head with the photo above. So lets get the hype machine rolling and hope for a great final.