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Adidas reject criticism of 2010 World Cup ball from goalkeepers Julio Cesar and Iker Casillas
Jabulani problems a fault of altitude not aerodynamics...
31 May 2010 16:22:00
By Matt Monaghan
Adidas have rejected criticism from top international goalkeepers Julio Cesar and Iker Casillas that their World Cup ball is too lightweight and impossible to control.
The German sports manufacturers launched the 'Jabulani' ball in December and it will be used throughout the upcoming tournament in South Africa. In the last few weeks it has been blasted due to its perceived unpredicable movement and was labelled a "beach ball" by Real Madrid and Spain shot-stopper Casillas after the weekend 3-2 victory against Saudi Arabia.
Speaking to reporters today, company spokesman Thomas van Schaik brushed aside the accusations. He insisted the ball has been tested thoroughly since its launch, praised by most professionals who have used it and declared all balls move erratically at altitude where several matches will be played in the competition.
Van Schaik had previously praised the creation of the ball, proclaiming it as "small and heavy, allowing for maximum accuracy, perfect grip and exceptionally stable flight."
Adidas sponsored players Kaka, Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard have also defended the ball's playability.
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Speaking to reporters today, company spokesman Thomas van Schaik brushed aside the accusations. He insisted the ball has been tested thoroughly since its launch, praised by most professionals who have used it and declared all balls move erratically at altitude where several matches will be played in the competition.
Van Schaik had previously praised the creation of the ball, proclaiming it as "small and heavy, allowing for maximum accuracy, perfect grip and exceptionally stable flight."
Adidas sponsored players Kaka, Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard have also defended the ball's playability.
Become a fan of Goal.com UK's Facebook fan page for all the latest news and insight into everything related to the beautiful game!
| Sign up with 188BET for a FREE bet up to £25 – Great Prices, Every Game |
|
| Open an account with Sportingbet today and get up to £50 in free bets! |
|
| Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25 |
|
| Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200 |
|
| Sign up with Paddy Power - Bet £10, Get £20! |
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