Brian McBride, the hardnosed American legend, announced today that he will retire at the end of the season. McBride has been a successful striker during his 17-year career featuring in the MLS, EPL, and three World Cups. He was the first player selected in the inaugural MLS draft in 1996 by the Columbus Crew scoring 62 goals for them. In 2004 McBride was bought by Fulham where he went on to score 40 goals in over 4 seasons. His achievements at Fulham include leading the team in scoring and being named player of the year in 2006-2007. Fulham returned the favor for McBride’s services to the club by naming a bar in Craven Cottage after him. McBride then came back to the US to play for Chicago where he will now end his career. American soccer fans will remember McBride for being the first American to score in two different World Cups. He will forever be in US fans hearts for his heroics in the 2002 World Cup when he scored the winning goal against Portugal and the opening goal in the round of 16 win against Mexico. McBride has earned the right to be called an American soccer legend and he will be missed by all of us.
The Portland Timbers announce that their sponsor will be Alaska Airlines.
The 2012 Euros started today with a few shocking results as France continues to struggle with a loss to Belarus, Northern Ireland upset Slovenia 1-0, and a Ronaldo-less Portugal could only manage a 4-4 draw against Cyprus. The other European giants all went on to victory with England winning behind a Jermain Defoe hat trick, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar doing the same for Netherlands, Spain winning behind a Fernando Torres brace, and Antonio Cassano saving Italy from embarrassment with a goal and an assist. The complete list of 2012 Euro results can be seen here.