The official World Cup 2010 thread

[RadioRaheem84]

All the hype is centered around Spain and Argentina. I for one think of Spain as the type of team that teases a fan by going to the quarterfinals and then losing.

Argentina is the other big contender. I think this Argentina's cup! :thumbup1:

[F9]

Seen that there have been around 10 threads for this very main subject, this deserves a sticky for a while;)

[ed miliband]

Someone needs to wake France up.

[RadioRaheem84]

Spain, Argentina, Brazil top contenders....

The Vatican included England but I don't know.

My pick is USA :lol: jk

[RadioRaheem84]

Someone needs to wake France up.


Indeed. What a lackluster 1st half against Uruguay.

[F9]

ok that was a boring game... not a fucking goal.. not the game i would expect for my first one this year around.Strong defences, good midfield action on defence, but not much room for organizing an attack.An early goal could change things a lot.. Govou was never in the game, i wonder what was he doing 75 minutes in.Bad game, i hope the next ones will be better.

[Ligeia]

Uruguay - France was technically a better game than the previous one.
Mexico - South Africa had some tense moments, though it wasn't a fast game.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

That game was really rough for those supporting Uruguay near the end...(such as I)

Tomorrow, down with South Korea!

[durhamleft]

anyone else looking forward to their country getting knocked out?

anyone else thought about sticking a massive nth korea flag on their house to piss off the locals? anyone?

[Warboy99]

My country, unfortunately, didn't make it in.

[Tablo]

Don't think this goes in politics. Kind of a chitchatish thread.

Anyway, I don't really watch soccer(football), but I saw Uruguay and France playing today so I think I might learn the game.

[McCroskey]

I don´t support any country. The world cup is an excuse for big businessess profits, but no one thinks of the money that could have been invested in fighting poverty there, instead. Or the massive displacement and repression of the poor residents whose houses were demolished to make way for big developments for the rich, and relocated in dumpsters conveniently situated out of the view of the foreigners.

The world cup is the prostitution of something as beautiful as sport, and I will not support it, either supporting my "country" or going against it.

Do you know how much the London Council will spend in a big fucking ugly monument in front of the stadium for the olimpics? Enough to build at least 20 schools or three hospitals. And then they say there´s no money and we need to embrace austerity!

Sport should be a noble activity, it´s now just a circus, a profit making market and a blindfold for the masses. It´s a real pity.

[praxis1966]

Someone needs to wake France up.

No, someone needs to wake Ray Domenech up. If it were me, I'd have made a double substitution in about the 60th, and it would've been Malouda and Henry on at the same time and I wouldn't have taken off Anelka to do it. And I definitely wouldn't have waited until the 70th and 75th to make those substitutions. I mean, what the fuck was he thinking? It was obvious that Uruguay intended to park the bus if they hadn't nicked one by then, which they didn't. What's the point in being so conservative?

No wonder he's out on his ass at the end of the tourney.

Anyhow, can't wait to see the England get a wake up call tomorrow; say what you want about the US but Ledley King's far too slow to contain our front men. Nevermind that no matter who starts between the sticks, he's gonna suck. Also, the Argentina - Nigeria match should be a really interesting contrast of style. That is, until Messi takes over.

[Terminator X]

I like Argentina too - I actually think an African team will also make it to the semifinals and possibly the final. Would love to see something other than the standard Spain-Brazil prediction.

[Tablo]

I don´t support any country. The world cup is an excuse for big businessess profits, but no one thinks of the money that could have been invested in fighting poverty there, instead. Or the massive displacement and repression of the poor residents whose houses were demolished to make way for big developments for the rich, and relocated in dumpsters conveniently situated out of the view of the foreigners.

The world cup is the prostitution of something as beautiful as sport, and I will not support it, either supporting my "country" or going against it.

Do you know how much the London Council will spend in a big fucking ugly monument in front of the stadium for the olimpics? Enough to build at least 20 schools or three hospitals. And then they say there´s no money and we need to embrace austerity!

Sport should be a noble activity, it´s now just a circus, a profit making market and a blindfold for the masses. It´s a real pity.
I generally agree with what you said, but that isn't a reason for people to not turn on the tv and enjoy some football.

[leftace53]

Canada doesn't do soccer. I still enjoy watching it though, I wasn't aware NK flags were even being sold, I think I've seen all the other countries except NK in flag form...

[the last donut of the night]

i watch it and support my country (brazil) just for kicks (pun intended)

[praxis1966]

I dunno who you guys have been listening too, but everybody I've been listening to has been saying Brazil or Spain. Argentina's good, Little Lio's the best player on the planet, but it's kind of difficult to win a World Cup with such an underwhelming midfield.

[this is an invasion]

I support France even though I'm from the US. Tomorrow I'll be supporting USA versus England, even though we all know who's going to win that shit...

[scarletghoul]

Wish I had a North Korean flag

[The Intransigent Faction]

i watch it and support my country (brazil) just for kicks (pun intended)

If I read the schedule right, they're playing against the DPRK soon.
I'm not much of a professional football enthusiast..but I'll still watch the occasional game.
I don't support any particular team, but sometimes I'll cheer against certain countries :P.
Getting a DPRK flag just to provoke people (or for the lulz) sounds like fun, though. I've seen Italian flags more than anything else around here.

[Communist]

.
To Sports & Health, from Politics.

Moved.

.

[Guerrilla22]

Go DPRK go

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

I don´t support any country. The world cup is an excuse for big businessess profits, but no one thinks of the money that could have been invested in fighting poverty there, instead. Or the massive displacement and repression of the poor residents whose houses were demolished to make way for big developments for the rich, and relocated in dumpsters conveniently situated out of the view of the foreigners.

The world cup is the prostitution of something as beautiful as sport, and I will not support it, either supporting my "country" or going against it.

Do you know how much the London Council will spend in a big fucking ugly monument in front of the stadium for the olimpics? Enough to build at least 20 schools or three hospitals. And then they say there´s no money and we need to embrace austerity!

Sport should be a noble activity, it´s now just a circus, a profit making market and a blindfold for the masses. It´s a real pity.

You're so right, it makes me ashamed of watching the games. Damn you bourgeois entertainment! :(

[Terminator X]

I'll be cheering on the USA today, but there's something absolutely terrifying about the prospect of Wayne Rooney going one-on-one against the likes of DeMerit, Cherundolo, Onyewu, etc.

[praxis1966]

I'll be cheering on the USA today, but there's something absolutely terrifying about the prospect of Wayne Rooney going one-on-one against the likes of DeMerit, Cherundolo, Onyewu, etc.

What's even worse is there are only about two ways you can contain a guy like that, neither of which are very attractive. 1) Park the bus. But I think if you allow a side as talented as England to come to you then you're playing with fire. 2) Try to hold possession as much as possible and grind the pace of the game to a halt. Rooney can't score if he doesn't have the ball, right? I think this is probably what will be attempted, I just don't know if we (the US) have enough skill to do it.

[Tifosi]

The France game last night was so bad, no more like that please. South Africa aren't good but after watching France, Mexico and Uruguay I can see them getting to the last 16.

[Terminator X]

What's even worse is there are only about two ways you can contain a guy like that, neither of which are very attractive. 1) Park the bus. But I think if you allow a side as talented as England to come to you then you're playing with fire. 2) Try to hold possession as much as possible and grind the pace of the game to a halt. Rooney can't score if he doesn't have the ball, right? I think this is probably what will be attempted, I just don't know if we (the US) have enough skill to do it.

I think we'll see a lot of #1, meaning England will likely outshoot the US something ridiculous like 18-4, forcing Howard to be the star. There is no way they can do much of #2, as USA's midfielders are nowhere near talented enough to hold the ball for any length of time.

It will be an English shooting gallery, I think, with the US attempting to hang on for dear life and maybe pull off a counter or two.

[Jazzratt]

I'll be cheering on the USA today, but there's something absolutely terrifying about the prospect of Wayne Rooney going one-on-one against the likes of DeMerit, Cherundolo, Onyewu, etc.

Don't worry, you'll get to laugh when we don't make it past the knock outs.

[F9]

Don't worry, you'll get to laugh when we don't make it past the knock outs.

lol yeah, england has always been since i am watching a weird occasion in national matches.Has great individual players, most of times lot better than the other team, and almost in every place, but always fail to achieve their goals, and most of the times, dont play so much of a good football.They are definitely not match of their top football teams.

Btw, nice beat up on greece, at last a good game in the sense of goals, and some opportunities, Korea most of the time, but after 2-0 they returned on the defense and greece got some chances too.But all in all, greece should be happy with just 2 goals difference:thumbup1:

[Terminator X]

lol yeah, england has always been since i am watching a weird occasion in national matches.Has great individual players, most of times lot better than the other team, and almost in every place, but always fail to achieve their goals, and most of the times, dont play so much of a good football.They are definitely not match of their top football teams.

Btw, nice beat up on greece, at last a good game in the sense of goals, and some opportunities, Korea most of the time, but after 2-0 they returned on the defense and greece got some chances too.But all in all, greece should be happy with just 2 goals difference:thumbup1:

I was impressed by SK today - they have good passing and skill on the ball. Some of their passes (especially from Park Ji-Sung) were downright amazing. I didn't know who to pick in this group behind Argentina, but I'd go with SK after today. Meanwhile, Greece looked like dogshit - will they score a single goal in the group stage?

[F9]

I was impressed by SK today - they have good passing and skill on the ball. Some of their passes (especially from Park Ji-Sung) were downright amazing. I didn't know who to pick in this group behind Argentina, but I'd go with SK after today. Meanwhile, Greece looked like dogshit - will they score a single goal in the group stage?

Greece could do better, if coach was setting the team better, but still there is no chance they can advance, other teams are just better.Korea is a very fast team, quick passes etc, has a little problem though in finishing and in the long passes, they are a bit short team.A nice surprise really, i wasnt expecting it, i was expecting Park Ji Sung to do all by himself.

Anw, the first good game finally is about to start, and i am too late, im going to see it faaast.:thumbup1:

[maskerade]

I'm hoping for an African team to make it far - either bafana bafana (south Africa), Ghana, or the Ivory Coast...Nigeria is all right too.

South Africa i thought were playing really well against Mexico, and that goal they scored was beautiful!

[F9]

Nice game from Argentina(Messi basically:lol:) would want a bit more goals, but keeper was really good, and beside the Argentinas players missing, he added a lot to keep the score low.

[RadioRaheem84]

South Korea amazed me.

What was up with Nigeria though? Argentina was running laps around them. I've never seen a forward miss so many chances like Messi, but damn he was always clear to do so. Argentina dominated the ball.

I have no hope for USA. I will still root for them but I am expecting a major ass kicking.

[Terminator X]

I thought Nigeria missed Obi Mikel, as they lacked imagination in the final third, and settled for long, circus shots that rarely troubled Romero.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Argentina to annihilate SK next match plz.

[RadioRaheem84]

Argentina to annihilate SK next match plz.

Probably, but I think SK will hold on better than Nigeria. It will be a good match. SK will beat Nigeria.

[praxis1966]

I thought Nigeria missed Obi Mikel, as they lacked imagination in the final third, and settled for long, circus shots that rarely troubled Romero.

Nigeria missed alot of things today, somebody with a decent first touch or the sense not to make the wrong decision every time, service to the forwards, the poise to slow things down and knock the ball around a bit, concentration during set pieces... And Obi Mikel, lulz. Enyeama was a hoss today, though. Without him the score could've easily been 4 or 5 - nil instead of what it was. I have the feeling that if he can continue to perform on the level he did today somebody's going to give him a big fat contract offer when the tourney's over.

[RadioRaheem84]

Even the experts are saying that US defense has no chance against Rooney.

[praxis1966]

Even the experts are saying that US defense has no chance against Rooney.

They said the same thing about the Nigerian defense against Messi and the only reason Argentina scored was because of a blown marking assignment in a set piece. Anything can happen in this sport, and on our day, the US can play with anyone in the world. I'm not saying we'll win, but I think most people are underestimating our chances. Not least of which are the English pundits and players.

[F9]

If someone told be back at 2004 that Greece would win the Euro, i would laugh like never before, and having fun of the one told me, as complete bullshit.Yeah, its football, shit happens ;)

[RadioRaheem84]

They said the same thing about the Nigerian defense against Messi and the only reason Argentina scored was because of a blown marking assignment in a set piece. Anything can happen in this sport, and on our day, the US can play with anyone in the world. I'm not saying we'll win, but I think most people are underestimating our chances. Not least of which are the English pundits and players.

3 mins in and Gerrard already scored. The game is going to be pretty predictable. All that's missing is a Rooney score.

[Jazzratt]

Christ, after Dempsey's goal I've been shitting myself every time we pass back to the keeper in case he fumbles again.

[F9]

:laugh::laugh: what a goal!!!!!:laugh: great timing, game was starting loosing interest, and was getting boring, but that great keeper, set the game from the start:thumbup1:
England really needs to lever their game up, they were better, but havent done anything huge, hope they get better second half, and after that goal. Allthough i dont know how players will now feel.Knowing that you have a keeper behind you, that he can eat whatever its thrown to him, makes the team, and especially defense nervous, and lose their concentration.I wouldnt be surprised by more laughable goals

[Spawn of Stalin]

Now that was a shit game of footie if I ever saw one

[praxis1966]

Come on, let's hear your excuses. I know you have a million of them. By the way and in case you're curious, that guy in the orange kit is what a real goalkeeper looks like.

[RadioRaheem84]

What a game! The best so far! The US held on tight and came out strong. Altidore's bad ass run was amazing. They might have a chance. I mean England was a World Cup favorite behind Brazil, Spain and Argentina. The goalkeeper was beast!

[Jazzratt]

Come on, let's hear your excuses. I know you have a million of them. By the way and in case you're curious, that guy in the orange kit is what a real goalkeeper looks like.

Well if I was forced to provide an excuse I'd say it's because because the US playing a fairly defensive game and if our keeper had dealt with that goal with the same aplomb as the Altidore shot then you'd have been fucked because there weren't that many chances created on the american side.

Of course I'd say that through clenched teeth because the fact is it's all pretty much excuses: England didn't do nearly as well as they could have or was expected for whatever reasons and the US team is a far more formidable beast than it was in previous tournaments and fair play to them for it. I'll certainly be keeping a closer eye on their games.

[Nolan]

England was the better team, I'll admit. The US was completely disorganized for most of the game, and only started to get their shit together toward the end.

[praxis1966]

England was the better team, I'll admit. The US was completely disorganized for most of the game, and only started to get their shit together toward the end.

No they weren't. The score was 1 - 1 which is the only measure of quality I give a shit about. Further, England were lucky not to lose when Altidore torched Carragher.


Well if I was forced to provide an excuse I'd say it's because because the US playing a fairly defensive game and if our keeper had dealt with that goal with the same aplomb as the Altidore shot then you'd have been fucked because there weren't that many chances created on the american side.

Of course I'd say that through clenched teeth because the fact is it's all pretty much excuses: England didn't do nearly as well as they could have or was expected for whatever reasons and the US team is a far more formidable beast than it was in previous tournaments and fair play to them for it. I'll certainly be keeping a closer eye on their games

Well, if I'm honest, I'd say there were spells where your side were better than hours, but that was to be expected. At the end of the day, though, I think the US performance was tactically rather intelligent, if negative. Our intent was from the beginning was obvious: Clog the middle of the pitch to keep Gerrard and Lampard from getting in a rhythm and bossing the game, which we did. It wound up forcing your backs to tonk long balls in toward Heskey and later Crouch, which didn't work because for the most part they got manhandled by Onyewu. Of course, it didn't help that Capello was forced into two early substitutions, shooting his match plan all to shit. Anyway, I think most people would agree that Tim Howard was the man of the match (that first goal was a blown marking assignment, Gerrard never should've been allowed to just waltz into the box that way), but there's something to be said for Michael Bradley as well. He put in the tackles when needed, made some very intelligent and creative passes, and more than once left defenders for dead with his footwork.

[F9]

Really the best game so far, im glad of that goal from green, gaved us a decent match(though i expect better).Tie was the fair result for me, with slight favor of england, but nothing huge.


What a game! The best so far! The US held on tight and came out strong. Altidore's bad ass run was amazing. They might have a chance. I mean England was a World Cup favorite behind Brazil, Spain and Argentina. The goalkeeper was beast!


I would certainly not add england in the world cup favorite, history have proved otherwise.Altidores run was good, but he should pass, not shoot, that would be probably a goal if a good pass was coming;) And the best wasnt the keeper, he didnt do anything big, usa hero, totally was that defender, i cant recall his name now, the one with the beard otiwa... or something lika that.But still there are lot of teams still as more favourites than USA, and the fact that it was a draw game with england, dont means they are equal.I hear those thoughts many times, and really are for those who dont understand about football(no disrespect;))

[Tifosi]

Nice game from Argentina(Messi basically:lol:) would want a bit more goals, but keeper was really good, and beside the Argentinas players missing, he added a lot to keep the score low.

Argentina's weak link is Gutierrez, he was good at going forward and that must be why Maradona picked him but he isn't a good defender. There was a number of times when Nigeria attackers went passed him. Nigeria should have got the ball down the right wing, they would have had far more chances on goal that way. Messi's runs where amazing and I'm surprised that he never scored.

I look forward to the South Korea vs Nigeria. Both teams look around the same level which could lead to a fantastic game. Greece have no hope against Argentina, how they won Euro 2004 I'll never know.

Green, lol, I looked forward to school for the lol'z

[F9]

Argentina's weak link is Gutierrez, he was good at going forward and that must be why Maradona picked him but he isn't a good defender. There was a number of times when Nigeria attackers went passed him. Nigeria should have got the ball down the right wing, they would have had far more chances on goal that way. Messi's runs where amazing and I'm surprised that he never scored.

I look forward to the South Korea vs Nigeria. Both teams look around the same level which could lead to a fantastic game. Greece have no hope against Argentina, how they won Euro 2004 I'll never know.

Green, lol, I looked forward to school for the lol'z

Yeah, Diegito probably saw that too, and got him in front in the end, and got burdisso back.Nigeria might had more chances, but if Argentina was making her chances to easy goals, they would still no matter.Messis no scoring is based on the keepers great performance as i saw it, he was absolutely excelent.

Even they dont know how they won the euro, it will remain one f the mysterys of football forever:lol:

[manic expression]

What a game! The best so far! The US held on tight and came out strong. Altidore's bad ass run was amazing. They might have a chance. I mean England was a World Cup favorite behind Brazil, Spain and Argentina. The goalkeeper was beast!
That's that METRO/RBNY pedigree! Altidore and Howard (to name a few) made NY and NJ soccer SO PROUD tonight!.....and yeah it was a great game...England played a very, very good match IMO, they'll do well for themselves this tournament if they keep it up...the US got a bit lucky but we'll take it, but still the result wasn't unfair the US played positive and spirited all the way through. I like the way this tournament is shaping up so far.

[RadioRaheem84]

That's that METRO/RBNY pedigree! Altidore and Howard (to name a few) made NY and NJ soccer SO PROUD tonight!.....and yeah it was a great game...England played a very, very good match IMO, they'll do well for themselves this tournament if they keep it up...the US got a bit lucky but we'll take it, but still the result wasn't unfair the US played positive and spirited all the way through. I like the way this tournament is shaping up so far.


At first I had no hope for the US or for what was a lackluster tournament so far, but this game turned it around. It was really tense.

England was really, really good. The US held it's own and managed to stay in the game.

[F9]

At last!!!Americans talk for real football:thumbup1: You are in a good way

[this is an invasion]

Such a good game. Although I think I may have soured a few friendships after talking shit on England afterwards.

But goddamn that was an entertaining match.

[lombas]

Predictions for tomorrow?

I'd say:

Algeria-Slovenia
==> might be boring, draw (0-0) or modest win for Slovenia (0-1)
Serbia-Ghana
==> fireworks in the air? my guess: 3-2
Germany-Australia
==> should be an easy win for the Germans, I bet 2-0

[praxis1966]

Predictions for tomorrow?

I'd say:

Algeria-Slovenia
==> might be boring, draw (0-0) or modest win for Slovenia (0-1)
Serbia-Ghana
==> fireworks in the air? my guess: 3-2
Germany-Australia
==> should be an easy win for the Germans, I bet 2-0

I disagree with you, but only slightly. I think after seeing the lackluster way the Aussie defense performed against the US last weekend that Germany's going to run over them roughshod, probably 3 or 4 - nil to the Germans. Ghana are missing Michael Essien, which is a bit like Cote d'Ivoire missing Drogba or England without Rooney in terms of how important he is to the side, but I still have high hopes for them being able to eek out a win in a low scoring, chippy affair; 1 - nil. I think you're probably right on the mark with the Algeria - Slovenia match, though.

[Devrim]

Even the experts are saying that US defense has no chance against Rooney.


It could be because most of the 'experts' who talk in English about football in the media are English. They have a long tradition of hyping up their team before tournaments only to be disappointed. Rooney is one of the few good things about a very average team. Of course they hype him up.


I'm not saying we'll win, but I think most people are underestimating our chances. Not least of which are the English pundits and players.

Exactly.


Christ, after Dempsey's goal I've been shitting myself every time we pass back to the keeper in case he fumbles again.

From a non-English point of view it was really comical. The way he was grasping after it reminded me of Alan Rough and that back-pass during the 1978 WC.

Seriously to win a World Cup you need a good if not great goal keeper, and England just don't have one. You could try dropping this one and bringing in 'Calamity' James.


The US was completely disorganized for most of the game, and only started to get their shit together toward the end.

I take it that you don't watch a lot of football. The US team was superbly organised, and that was its main strength.


That's that METRO/RBNY pedigree! Altidore and Howard (to name a few) made NY and NJ soccer SO PROUD tonight!.....and yeah it was a great game...England played a very, very good match IMO, they'll do well for themselves this tournament if they keep it up...

Obviously you do watch football, and know what you are talking about. I can't see how anybody who does would think that England played a 'very, very good match'. They were, at best, average.


England was really, really good. The US held it's own and managed to stay in the game.

I can't really believe people are saying this. England did not play well. We all know that on a man to man level England have much better players than the USA, except perhaps in goal. The fact that they couldn't do anything with them does not suggest they played a good game. Barry Glendenning in the English Guardian was much clearer:


I can't see England beating Slovenia or Algeria if they play like this again. Tyldesley and Townsend are talking about them as if they'd just put in a performance worthy of Brazil 1970, but I'm not sure what match they were watching.

Devrim

[Guerrilla22]

That was an epic fail on the part of England's goaltender. The game should have been 1-0 England.

[manic expression]

Hmm, Devrim's analysis is valid...I was riding high last night so maybe I exaggerated our opponents a bit :lol:. But I thought England played well for a few reasons: their wings, especially after Milner was taken off, did their job well enough (Johnson impressed me in particular); their midfield held possession respectably and were able to create through the center and on the counter even as the US midfield played one of the best collective efforts I've seen in a long time; the US attack is based so much on speed (Findley, Altidore, Donovan), which is England's biggest defensive weakness aside from their terrible goalkeeping, but even then they only gave us a few truly clear-cut goalscoring chances (Altidore's header and run are the only two I can think of), I thought they would have surrendered more space but they didn't.

The biggest questions are whether they can find decent goalkeeping, finish their chances, stay fit (especially their backline) and put more pressure on their opponents in the attacking third. If I'm being honest, the US defensive line aren't exactly world beaters (even though Cherundolo just played out of his mind) but you wouldn't know it from last night...Rooney was frustrated and no one else stepped up. We'll see how they do, I guess I'd say the jury is still out.

[Chicano Shamrock]

Really the best game so far, im glad of that goal from green, gaved us a decent match(though i expect better).Tie was the fair result for me, with slight favor of england, but nothing huge.


I would certainly not add england in the world cup favorite, history have proved otherwise.Altidores run was good, but he should pass, not shoot, that would be probably a goal if a good pass was coming;) And the best wasnt the keeper, he didnt do anything big, usa hero, totally was that defender, i cant recall his name now, the one with the beard otiwa... or something lika that.But still there are lot of teams still as more favourites than USA, and the fact that it was a draw game with england, dont means they are equal.I hear those thoughts many times, and really are for those who dont understand about football(no disrespect;))
His name is Onyewu. I thought he had a good game especially since the last competitive game he played was in October.

I thought the USA played a good game. My heart sunk when England came on strong and got that goal right away. I thought for a second that they might just plow through us 4-0.

USA had a lot of possession and good passing in the first half. In the second half there were some glimpses of attack for Team Freedom but we changed our style to a more bunker and hold oriented game. The bunker worked out as England had very few real chances of scoring.

Sure England had some shots but most were straight at Tim Howard. Tim came up big by holding on to those shots and not giving up the rebound.

I thought Glenn Johnson did well dribbling USA's defence and Gerrard looked good in the first half. Everyone talks about how England looks better on paper man for man but for me if I was picking a team I would go Donovan and Dempsey over Lennon and Shaun Wright Phillips. SWP and Lennon were shit imo. Lennon got behind a lot but his crosses were terrible. England need to sort that out if they want to get anywhere.

USA baby! Fuck Anarchism for a month!!!

[Chicano Shamrock]

Well if I was forced to provide an excuse I'd say it's because because the US playing a fairly defensive game and if our keeper had dealt with that goal with the same aplomb as the Altidore shot then you'd have been fucked because there weren't that many chances created on the american side.

Of course I'd say that through clenched teeth because the fact is it's all pretty much excuses: England didn't do nearly as well as they could have or was expected for whatever reasonsand the US team is a far more formidable beast than it was in previous tournaments and fair play to them for it. I'll certainly be keeping a closer eye on their games.
I actually thought Green's save on the Altidore shot was horrendous. He palmed it back towards his goal and was lucky that it bounced off the frame. If it had been a few inches inward than it would have hit the inside of the frame and spun in. In the end a save is a save and that's all that matters.

Good game and good luck.

[praxis1966]

Rooney was frustrated and no one else stepped up. We'll see how they do, I guess I'd say the jury is still out.

Exactly right. If you've payed the kind of attention to English football I have over the last several years, both at the club and international level, you know how fickle the passions of both its fans and media can be. Up until yesterday, if you put any stock in anything either of them said, England were going to win every match of the first round 8 - nil. After yesterday, it's all doom and gloom. The truth, as always, is someplace in between. I don't think yesterday's result was the end of the world for them since I expect them to win their other two group matches handily, but I do think that it raised more questions than it answered.

[Devrim]

Hmm, Devrim's analysis is valid...I was riding high last night so maybe I exaggerated our opponents a bit :lol:.

It isn't often you agree with me. ;) It is quiet understandable getting excited when you get a good result though.

I think the point is that for the US it is a good result yet the English are pretty appalled by it if their media is anything to go by.


the US attack is based so much on speed (Findley, Altidore, Donovan), which is England's biggest defensive weakness aside from their terrible goalkeeping,

I am even going to agree with you now. The centre of the English defence is very slow. I think that they will really miss Ferdinand as he was the one central defender they had with a bit of speed and the ability to play the ball. Terry, who actually had a pretty poor season by the way, is good at heading away the sort of balls that get knocked up at the Chelsea defence in the Premiership by teams that can't compete with them in midfield, but generally looks lacking in the Champions League or top class internationals. King is out for the next match, and already Capello's options are beginning to look a bit slim.


Rooney was frustrated and no one else stepped up. We'll see how they do, I guess I'd say the jury is still out.

Basically Rooney gets frustrated when things aren't going well. From what I saw last night, England will struggle to give him the service that he is used to at Manchester United, even this years relatively poor United.

Barry Glendenning in the Guardian was pretty scathing about Heskey.


79 min: England substitution: Emile Heskey off, Peter Crouch on. "He's been outstanding tonight," says Tyldesley and his match analyst Andy Townsend agrees. I disagree. In fact I couldn't disagree much more. He's been OK, by his usual low standards, but so little is expected of him - a few knock-downs, a vaguely accurate cross here and there - that you could hammer a Heskey-sized wooden post into the opposition penalty area and it would do just as good a job. In his credit column tonight: he outjumped a Watford reject and a Milan reserve a few times and set up a goal. In his debit column: he missed two sitters and created little.

He is pretty spot on in my opinion though. The England wings don't compare with United's either. It will be very difficult for Rooney to shine if there is nobody who can create chances for him.


Sure England had some shots but most were straight at Tim Howard.

And the best ones fell to Heskey. A man who has scored five goals for his club this season in 31 appearances. His record this season for England is even more impressive with a big total of no goals whatsoever. In his 59 appearances for England he has managed to score a total of 7 goals, including against such giants as Malta and Kazakhstan. If you compare that to a real striker such as, for example Torres, who has 23 goals in 25 games, or even Peter Crouch, who came on for him last night, with 21 in 39, you have to wonder how Heskey gets in the team.


After yesterday, it's all doom and gloom. The truth, as always, is someplace in between. I don't think yesterday's result was the end of the world for them since I expect them to win their other two group matches handily, but I do think that it raised more questions than it answered.

They should be able to beat Algeria, who from what I have seen are pretty awful, but I think Slovenia in the last match may be a problem for them.

Devrim

[praxis1966]

They should be able to beat Algeria, who from what I have seen are pretty awful, but I think Slovenia in the last match may be a problem for them.

Bah I just finished watching the Slovenia - Algeria match and I have to say that Slovenia looked rather underwhelming against a side that I think everyone agrees is one of the worst in the tournament. If it weren't for the biggest goalkeeping error of the Cup apart from Robert Green's 43rd minute howler yesterday, it would've been a scoreless draw.

[Devrim]

Bah I just finished watching the Slovenia - Algeria match and I have to say that Slovenia looked rather underwhelming against a side that I think everyone agrees is one of the worst in the tournament. If it weren't for the biggest goalkeeping error of the Cup apart from Robert Green's 43rd minute howler yesterday, it would've been a scoreless draw.

Yes, I watched it too, and it was pretty dreadful. I still think England will struggle against them though. They are well organised at the back, and England will have problems breaking them down.

Devrim

[praxis1966]

Yes, I watched it too, and it was pretty dreadful. I still think England will struggle against them though. They are well organised at the back, and England will have problems breaking them down.

Well, I was trying to make you feel better, but if that's the way you wanna be... :lol:

[Devrim]

Well, I was trying to make you feel better, but if that's the way you wanna be... :lol:

It doesn't make me feel better. I am not English, and I quite enjoy watching them fall apart when it comes to big international tournaments. I have a good friend who is, and generally enjoy watching it with him and mocking them. He also has a talent of saying exactly the opposite of what will happen. The best moment with him was in Euro 2004 when at 90 minutes he said "1-0 up with four minutes to go. I think we've got this". Up stepped Zıdane, and put in two goals in extra time.

Devrim

[praxis1966]

It doesn't make me feel better. I am not English, and I quite enjoy watching them fall apart when it comes to big international tournaments. I have a good friend who is, and generally enjoy watching it with him and mocking them. He also has a talent of saying exactly the opposite of what will happen. The best moment with him was in Euro 2004 when at 90 minutes he said "1-0 up with four minutes to go. I think we've got this". Up stepped Zıdane, and put in two goals in extra time.

Ah, ok. I dunno why I thought for some reason you were. Nothing like taking the piss out of English fans, though. As others have said, they can't stop banging on about events that happened nearly 50 years ago. I have to say, I get a warm fuzzy feeling when I consider the irony that though the English invented the game, they haven't actually won anything worth mentioning at the international level in decades yet somehow expect to win every match they play. In that way, they kind of remind me of Boston Red Sox fans prior to the 2004 season.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Delicious african win over Serbia with a stupid penalty kick!

[Wanted Man]

I didn't see much of the Germany game that is currently going on, but it was already 4-0 when I started watching. Australia getting hammered by Germany was kind of expected though.

[RadioRaheem84]

It was expected but the German Team still amazed me. :thumbup1:

[pierrotlefou]

the one guy scores, comes out, and his replacement scores right after. what a killing that game was.

[F9]

I didn't see much of the Germany game that is currently going on, but it was already 4-0 when I started watching. Australia getting hammered by Germany was kind of expected though.

Best game so far, easily, Germany seems a very tactical team, quick passes, nice combinations, fast reactions behind the back of the defenders and seem like a team, not individuals.But still, people shouldnt get excited, especially those supporting Germany, its just the first game, and it was against a clearly weakest team.Its always wrong to football judging from a sing;e game, either its a whole team, or a player.
Hope to see more matches like this, and even more goals:)

[praxis1966]

Best game so far, easily, Germany seems a very tactical team, quick passes, nice combinations, fast reactions behind the back of the defenders and seem like a team, not individuals.But still, people shouldnt get excited, especially those supporting Germany, its just the first game, and it was against a clearly weakest team.Its always wrong to football judging from a sing;e game, either its a whole team, or a player.
Hope to see more matches like this, and even more goals:)

Well, generally I'd agree with you in your assertion that one shouldn't judge a side by one match alone. However, I think it's over for the Aussies. Their best player, Tiny Tim, will be serving a suspension in the Ghana match. Although, I doubt he'd have as much influence on the outcome as one might think anyway as he's an offensive minded player. After the friendly with the US a week ago, I had my doubts about Australia's defenders (starting CB Lucas Neill was just given his release from Everton, which is how he ended up at Galatasaray on a free, for instance) and today's performance wasn't very confidence inspiring.

If you can believe it, Ghana's actually more athletic than Germany is. I mean, they didn't show much creativity or patience against the Serbs in the final third. But, what they lacked they made up for in verve, pace and enthusiasm backed up by passing sequences that were occasionally quite good. Frankly, I think they're more than capable of breaking Australia down. Without Cahill, I'm pretty sure the Aussies won't be able to hit back, and that'll mean Australia's out. No recovering from two losses.

[Bilan]

Oh man. Australia got their asses handed to them. 4-0!
Granted that Germany is one of the best teams in the world, it was still a pretty demoralising match.

[Wanted Man]

I missed the last 10 minutes of the Holland match, but I saw the Kuyt goal later on.

Anyway, we found out that Denmark is a tough nut to crack. Very organised, but the Netherlands were also not good enough up front. Initially, Van der Vaart was played on the left, not his natural position, where he failed to make a difference. He is a hard-working player, but cannot do much on the left flank, it seems. It was nice to see Elia replace him, his first touches during a World Cup tournament were threatening right away. I think we were kind of lucky with the Denmark own goal; I wonder if it would have remained 0-0 without that one.

[RadioRaheem84]

All of the games, except for the Germany vs Australia game, have been rather goalless. There were own goals, tie games, penalty kicks, 1-0 wins, etc. Most of the games were 0-0 until the second half.

There was a theory my friend told me about where he heard a commentator comment about how most national teams in this era have all really good players and so the standard has risen thus lowering the scores.

What do you guys think? It was pretty much the same last Cup too, especially during the knockout stage.

[praxis1966]

All of the games, except for the Germany vs Australia game, have been rather goalless. There were own goals, tie games, penalty kicks, 1-0 wins, etc. Most of the games were 0-0 until the second half.

There was a theory my friend told me about where he heard a commentator comment about how most national teams in this era have all really good players and so the standard has risen thus lowering the scores.

What do you guys think? It was pretty much the same last Cup too, especially during the knockout stage.

I think it has more to do with tactics than anything else. The France - Uruguay match is the perfect example. Uruguay pretty much knew that the French were the superior side in terms of skill. So, instead of trying to actually going right after them and trying to win it outright (an approach which would have left them vulnerable if they turned the ball over in the middle third), they packed 9 and 10 men in behind the ball and tried to catch France on the break. When Uruguay did attack in that match, it was at high speed with long balls and at most four men, as opposed to the six to eight men more talented sides use. It's a tactic used over and over again when there's a sizable talent disparity, especially in the group stages when all the mediocre sides still have something to play for. Occasionally, though, you'll see it when a good team takes an early lead in the knockout stages. I'm thinking specifically of the Germany - Ireland match in the 2002 World Cup in this case.

[F9]

I think it has more to do with tactics than anything else. The France - Uruguay match is the perfect example. Uruguay pretty much knew that the French were the superior side in terms of skill. So, instead of trying to actually going right after them and trying to win it outright (an approach which would have left them vulnerable if they turned the ball over in the middle third), they packed 9 and 10 men in behind the ball and tried to catch France on the break. When Uruguay did attack in that match, it was at high speed with long balls and at most four men, as opposed to the six to eight men more talented sides use. It's a tactic used over and over again when there's a sizable talent disparity, especially in the group stages when all the mediocre sides still have something to play for.

Dont forget this tactic won the champions league this year, and beside the other coincidences, the defence tactic with counter attack got greece the Euro 2004.So yeah, it was always a system been used mostly and regularly by weeker teams, but probably now more coaches will think to use it.

[Devrim]

All of the games, except for the Germany vs Australia game, have been rather goalless. There were own goals, tie games, penalty kicks, 1-0 wins, etc. Most of the games were 0-0 until the second half.

There was a theory my friend told me about where he heard a commentator comment about how most national teams in this era have all really good players and so the standard has risen thus lowering the scores.

What do you guys think? It was pretty much the same last Cup too, especially during the knockout stage.

I think that especially in the first round of matches in the group stage teams are really afraid to lose, and thus tend to be a bit cautious. A defeat in the first match of the WC group stage really puts you in a bad position unlike the Champions League where there are twice as many matches.

Devrim

[praxis1966]

Just finished watching the Cameroon - Japan match. In the 'Predictor' game on the FSC website, I actually had this match finishing at a 1 - 1 draw, but only after second guessing my initial impulse to go with 1 - nil to Japan. My frustration was compounded by the lack of tactical sense and team cohesiveness of Cameroon in particular and the African sides in general. I swear to Christ, watching them is like a sneeze that just won't come. They're always right on the verge, but just can't seem to get there. Except for the Ghanaians, that is, whom I have going through to the second round in my brackets.

[Il Medico]

Germany Killed Australia yesterday, best match I've watched thus far. The Japan Cameroon match was alright. I am excited for Italy v Paraguay in a few hours. :D

[praxis1966]

I am excited for Italy v Paraguay in a few hours. :D

Gonna go ahead and call upset in this one. One - nil to Paraguay. Remember, kiddies, you heard it here first.

[Il Medico]

Gonna go ahead and call upset in this one. One - nil to Paraguay. Remember, kiddies, you heard it here first.
I don't think Italy will lose, but you never know. Personally, I would like to see 3+ - nil in favor of Italy, though more realistically it will probably be something like 2-1 Italy winning.

[Ligeia]

Cameroon-Japan was weird. I thought Cameroon started out good, they were fast but Japan kind of made them play unorganised and slow.
The Japanese team really didn't move a lot, and Cameroon fell into that trap. Until the very last minutes,...then they suddenly regained their spirits.Too late. (And I thought there were too much fouls and the referee almost didn't do anything).

Waiting for Italy-Paraguay now.

[Wanted Man]

I think Italy will win this one. I wonder whether we will get Paraguay or Slovakia in the first knock-out round. :)

[Sam_b]

The official Word Cup thread?

[Wanted Man]

I think Italy will win this one. I wonder whether we will get Paraguay or Slovakia in the first knock-out round. :)

Well, shows what I know. Although of course there is still another half to go. If Paraguay can keep this up, things could get interesting in this group.

[praxis1966]

Well, shows what I know. Although of course there is still another half to go. If Paraguay can keep this up, things could get interesting in this group.

Well, if Justo Villar doesn't come flapping at that corner like a shot duck, Paraguay pulls off the shocker and makes me look like a genius. Congratulations on another epic goalkeeping fail.

[F9]

The official Word Cup thread?

:(

[Wanted Man]

What's with all the goalies, anyway? Perhaps the best tournament will be had by the sides who actually have a guy who can stop shots. Or maybe they will all simply blame it on the ball.

[F9]

Decent match, italy-paraguy, not that expected result, though paraguy proved herself in qualification it was a small suprise.1st half was extremely boring, 2nd one was really good.Im not convinced by Italys attack, those were my first doubts on Italys performance in this Cup, they kinda proved me correct today, but we will see in more matches, but i still think Lippi has to do something about his attack.

As for the goalies, i do think the ball played a role in greens, and the algerians funny goals, but yeah paraguays keeper today, surely cant blame the ball, mistake its totally his, but mehh, shit happens, we wouldnt enjoy goals if they wouldnt;) That ball is weird, im telling you that, i thought green was an idiotic keeper, beside been useless:p but watching how the ball reacts and the next games, there is definitely something different about that ball, it may not be wrong but certainly a lot and experienced players and keepers, seem to wait her to go elsewhere, and it gets higher, lower, to the left etc.Good chance for adidas to sell more balls basically, who cares if its good or not, at least they all play with the same one.

[praxis1966]

What's with all the goalies, anyway? Perhaps the best tournament will be had by the sides who actually have a guy who can stop shots. Or maybe they will all simply blame it on the ball.

It ain't the ball. Chaquchi, Green, Villar, and Schwarzer (who was to blame for the Klose goal because he didn't fully commit to the punch) all made fundamental, bush league errors that no decent keeper would make. There has been some good goalkeeping as well, Tim Howard in the England match, Vincent Enyeama in the Argentina match, and whether it's Casillas or Valdes (if it's my decision to make I'm going with Valdes) for Spain, you'll see good goalkeeping there as well. If anything, I think the ball's hurting strikers and kick takers more than helping them because it's faster. I don't know if you've noticed, but the overwhelming majority of free kicks taken in the attacking third have sailed way off target.

[comradeRed:)]

Viva italia!!!!!!!!!!!!

[praxis1966]

Viva italia!!!!!!!!!!!!

I take it that you're not Italian, otherwise you'd have said 'Forza Italia,' so you won't mind when I say, 'Fuck the Italian team. Fuck 'em right in the face.' Whether it's diving, elbowing, intentional handballs, kicking people in the ankles, arguing with referees, insulting people's sisters, or buying off referees, they pretty much lie, cheat and steal every way they know how. There's a reason why everyone on the planet who's not of Italian descent hates them.

[manic expression]

I take it that you're not Italian, otherwise you'd have said 'Forza Italia,' so you won't mind when I say, 'Fuck the Italian team. Fuck 'em right in the face.' Whether it's diving, elbowing, intentional handballs, kicking people in the ankles, arguing with referees, insulting people's sisters, or buying off referees, they pretty much lie, cheat and steal every way they know how. There's a reason why everyone on the planet who's not of Italian descent hates them.
This, friends, is truth. Study it closely.

[Terminator X]

Pretty shit games today, eh?

[praxis1966]

Pretty shit games today, eh?

Depends on your perspective I suppose. There's only one worth watching tomorrow, but it'll be a barn burner: Cote d'Ivoire v Portugal. New Zealand v Slovakia is gonna be like watching paint dry, and Brazil v DPRK will be so lopsided it'll make you feel like crying.

[Terminator X]

Depends on your perspective I suppose.

Yeah, you're right. I was half asleep for Holland-Denmark, and I could barely watch Cameroon look clueless with the ball and squander nearly every attack (who was the fellow with the ponytail who played on the left wing? - he was complete and utter shit). Amazing that Eto'o can do anything with that supporting cast.

I just watched Italy-Paraguay on replay and was bored to tears. I think the weather slowed the game way down, though. I'm hoping Santa Cruz is in the starting lineup in Paraguay's next match - I think he would have made a difference in this one. Italy did not impress in the least. Their attacking options are miserable.

[praxis1966]

Yeah, you're right. I was half asleep for Holland-Denmark, and I could barely watch Cameroon look clueless with the ball and squander nearly every attack (who was the fellow with the ponytail who played on the left wing? - he was complete and utter shit). Amazing that Eto'o can do anything with that supporting cast.

I just watched Italy-Paraguay on replay and was bored to tears. I think the weather slowed the game way down, though. I'm hoping Santa Cruz is in the starting lineup in Paraguay's next match - I think he would have made a difference in this one. Italy did not impress in the least. Their attacking options are miserable.

Eh, I'm not sure about the guy with the ponytail. The coverage of African football outside of Africa is pretty dismal. It's pretty hard to get info on players and teams even if you want to. Anyway, that's what I was moaning about before, comparing watching African teams to a sneeze that just won't come. Admittedly, I fell asleep for most of the Holland - Denmark match as well. I live in the Pacific time zone, so I think getting up at 4 AM finally caught up to me.

Although, I really enjoyed the Italy - Paraguay match. As you can tell from my previous posts, I'm not much of a fan of the Italians so I took a certain sadistic pleasure in their agony. In all fairness to them, though, Camoranesi didn't play most of the match and Pirlo didn't play at all (both of them are carrying knocks), so I think their attack will improve when those guys come back.

[Devrim]

I take it that you're not Italian, otherwise you'd have said 'Forza Italia,' so you won't mind when I say, 'Fuck the Italian team. Fuck 'em right in the face.' Whether it's diving, elbowing, intentional handballs, kicking people in the ankles, arguing with referees, insulting people's sisters, or buying off referees, they pretty much lie, cheat and steal every way they know how. There's a reason why everyone on the planet who's not of Italian descent hates them.

I am not of Italian descent, and I quite like them. I do on the other hand hate moralising about cheating because almost everybody cheats at professional football, and often moralising about cheating is just a way to have a go at 'Johnny foreigner'. Over the years Italy have had some great players, played some great football, and hosted what is reckoned to be one of the great World Cups, Italia 90.

Devrim

[Devrim]

It ain't the ball. Chaquchi, Green, Villar, and Schwarzer (who was to blame for the Klose goal because he didn't fully commit to the punch) all made fundamental, bush league errors that no decent keeper would make.

Not wanting to dwell on England's errors with that goal too much*. There was something else that a friend of mine picked up on that was completely different. The place that the shot came from is exactly the place that the modern 'holding midfielder' should be patrolling, as he sits in front of the defence protecting it. It is the position that Gareth Barry would have played were he fit.

Basically it comes down to the whole problem with Gerrad and Lampard playing together. If you play two attacking minded mid-fielders in the centre of 442, when one advances the other needs to drop back and cover. This seems to have escaped both of them, and often leads to a hole in front of England's defence.

Devrim

*As if it could be too much.

[F9]

Pretty shit games today, eh?

I have been waiting this group to be played from the start actually, want to see what Brazil has to offer(hopefully lots goals against an obvious weaker opponent) and Portugal with Ronaldo etc, giving us a more trickfull football Portuguese used us to:)

[Honggweilo]

i take it that you're not italian, otherwise you'd have said 'forza italia,' so you won't mind when i say, 'fuck the italian team. Fuck 'em right in the face.' whether it's diving, elbowing, intentional handballs, kicking people in the ankles, arguing with referees, insulting people's sisters, or buying off referees, they pretty much lie, cheat and steal every way they know how. There's a reason why everyone on the planet who's not of italian descent hates them.

qft

also, NK - Brazil 2-0 tonight :rolleyes:

[praxis1966]

I am not of Italian descent, and I quite like them. I do on the other hand hate moralising about cheating because almost everybody cheats at professional football, and often moralising about cheating is just a way to have a go at 'Johnny foreigner'. Over the years Italy have had some great players, played some great football, and hosted what is reckoned to be one of the great World Cups, Italia 90.

Well, for the most part I think you're right. And I'm not "having a go at 'Johnny foreigner.'" Alot of the things I mentioned earlier are things that happen in every country, but the match fixing scandals in '82 and '06 aren't. If I'm honest, though, the straw that broke the camel's back for me was the 2006 WC match between the US and Italy, in which were Brian McBride's bloody forehead and Andrea Pirlo's dive which lead to Italy's only goal (resulting in a 1 -1 draw instead of a 1 - 0 win for the States). It's the same with the Brazilians. They're not especially dirty when compared to other countries, but in 1994 Brazilian defender Leonardo elbowed US midfielder Tab Ramos in the head, which resulted in a skull fracture and a 3 1/2 month hospital stint. For that I will forever hate their teams.

Anyway, I think your mate's right about the Dempsey goal/Green howler. It did begin with the lack of cooperation between Gerrard and Lampard; those two have never partnered well together. However, that doesn't change the fact that had Green fallen on the fuckin' thing like he was taught when he was 6 he probably would've stopped it.


qft

also, NK - Brazil 2-0 tonight :rolleyes:

Are you high or just joking? There's no way in hell that match is finishing with anything less than four Brazilian goals.

Anyway, for anybody who cares, Didier Drogba's cast was approved by FIFA, so he'll make the Portugal match today. [Source (http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/worldcup/story/Ivory-Coast-star-Drogbas-cast-gets-FIFA-green-light)]

[lombas]

Nz-slo: 1-1
ivc-por: 2-3
bra-dprk: 4-1

[Wanted Man]

It ain't the ball. Chaquchi, Green, Villar, and Schwarzer (who was to blame for the Klose goal because he didn't fully commit to the punch) all made fundamental, bush league errors that no decent keeper would make. There has been some good goalkeeping as well, Tim Howard in the England match, Vincent Enyeama in the Argentina match, and whether it's Casillas or Valdes (if it's my decision to make I'm going with Valdes) for Spain, you'll see good goalkeeping there as well. If anything, I think the ball's hurting strikers and kick takers more than helping them because it's faster. I don't know if you've noticed, but the overwhelming majority of free kicks taken in the attacking third have sailed way off target.

Yeah, that was my first thought as well. There were goalies who fared well. I was pleased to see Stekelenburg stop a couple of those shots yesterday. Sorensen let one slip for a moment, but luckily for him it didn't bounce into the goal and he could smother it at the second attempt.

I also wonder about the freekicks. Before the World Cup, with typical arrogance, Sneijder and Van der Vaart suggested that we would be seeing a few goals from 50m with that ball, but that didn't go over too well, considering Sneijder's long-range freekicks were not even near the goal. Perhaps next time he give up his dreams of scoring from 40m and actually do something useful with those kicks. And work on making sure the short-range freekicks are on target.

[Devrim]

Well, for the most part I think you're right. And I'm not "having a go at 'Johnny foreigner.'"

No, I didn' say you were. A lot of it in the media is though and people do pick up on it however unconsciously.


Alot of the things I mentioned earlier are things that happen in every country, but the match fixing scandals in '82 and '06 aren't.

I think they happen in more cases than you might imagine unfortunately. Certainly OM Marseilles were stripped of a Champions league title for fixing, and fixing is endemic in some countries.


If I'm honest, though, the straw that broke the camel's back for me was the 2006 WC match between the US and Italy, in which were Brian McBride's bloody forehead and Andrea Pirlo's dive which lead to Italy's only goal (resulting in a 1 -1 draw instead of a 1 - 0 win for the States).

So somebody dived. Are you really saying that Americans never do?


It's the same with the Brazilians. They're not especially dirty when compared to other countries, but in 1994 Brazilian defender Leonardo elbowed US midfielder Tab Ramos in the head, which resulted in a skull fracture and a 3 1/2 month hospital stint. For that I will forever hate their teams.

I remember that and it was particularly bad, but has no US player ever elbowed anybody?


Anyway, I think your mate's right about the Dempsey goal/Green howler. It did begin with the lack of cooperation between Gerrard and Lampard; those two have never partnered well together. However, that doesn't change the fact that had Green fallen on the fuckin' thing like he was taught when he was 6 he probably would've stopped it.

Yes you are right here complexly. My point was though that there is more that is wrong with England than a little dodgy goalkeeping.

Devrim

[Wanted Man]

Nice to see the Gerrard/Lampard discussion returning. Why do England play them both, anyway? Don't they have anyone besides Barry who can fulfil that much-needed DM role?

[Il Medico]

Italy had a pathetic showing yesterday, I hope they shape up quick or I am going to strain my vocal cords more than a man watching TV should.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Paraguay will qualify! I know it! Slovakia was shit and let New Zealand tie at the last moment, lol...

[praxis1966]

No, I didn' say you were. A lot of it in the media is though and people do pick up on it however unconsciously.

Well, this is the one good thing about the lack of media coverage of the sport in America. We're not subject to the same barrage of propaganda most proper footballing countries are, so I'm not sure I'm as biased as I would be if I were living someplace else.


I think they happen in more cases than you might imagine unfortunately. Certainly OM Marseilles were stripped of a Champions league title for fixing, and fixing is endemic in some countries.

One of them being Italy.


So somebody dived. Are you really saying that Americans never do?

I remember that and it was particularly bad, but has no US player ever elbowed anybody?

The answer to both these questions is of course no. In fact, the US had a player sent off in the Italy match for a pretty nasty tackle, but it was after prolonged periods of Italian nastiness. I'm not saying two wrongs make a right, in fact I was pretty critical at the time of the American involved for sinking to that level. But it's a matter of degrees, and Italian players seem to make a habit of this sort of thing much more so than most other places.


Yes you are right here complexly. My point was though that there is more that is wrong with England than a little dodgy goalkeeping.

Oh yeah, I agree with that. Not least of which is too many egos. I think a large reason they got the result they did against the US was that they played like individuals, the US played like a team.

[RadioRaheem84]

The 4-1 prediction for the NK vs Brazil may be unfounded. I've read that Brazil has changed it's old samba style of soccer in favor of a more defensive style that relies little on tricks, high scoring, etc. They say it's made Brazil a weaker team but still strong enough to be a contender.

This cup has been full of surprises, but they're not all necessarily good. Hopefully, the cup will pick up soon with some killer games like the Aus vs Ger and US vs Eng game.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

DPRK for the upset today! :cool:

[Sankofa]

We'll see how the game turns out. It's been such a long time since the DPRK has been in the World Cup, maybe they'll be able to hang with Brazil--they are certainly the underdogs for that match up.

[RadioRaheem84]

Ivory Coast is really holding it's own against Portugal!

[praxis1966]

The 4-1 prediction for the NK vs Brazil may be unfounded. I've read that Brazil has changed it's old samba style of soccer in favor of a more defensive style that relies little on tricks, high scoring, etc. They say it's made Brazil a weaker team but still strong enough to be a contender.

Eh That's just Brazilians being Brazilians. Dunga's introduced some structure to the side, to be sure, but I think that in ways it's made them more dangerous. The samba style has been what's lead to them being weak defensively in the past. Take for example the match in the 2002 Cup against Costa Rica. Any other team of Brazil's pedigree would've easily held a clean sheet, but they allowed two goals. Just so happened that Brazil scored five.

Anyway, what I meant by the 'Brazilians being Brazilians' comment was the press and fans down there just don't like it because the style isn't 'beautiful' enough for them. It's not enough for Brazil to win as far as they're concerned, they have to do it with style and flair or nobody's happy. They could give a shit less about a leaky defense. If they're weaker at all, it's nothing to do with tactics. Brazil's going through a transitional period at the moment, a changing of the guard if you will.

[lombas]

Nz-slo: 1-1
ivc-por: 2-3
bra-dprk: 4-1

1 down, 2 to go

:cool:

[Wanted Man]

Eh That's just Brazilians being Brazilians. Dunga's introduced some structure to the side, to be sure, but I think that in ways it's made them more dangerous. The samba style has been what's lead to them being weak defensively in the past. Take for example the match in the 2002 Cup against Costa Rica. Any other team of Brazil's pedigree would've easily held a clean sheet, but they allowed two goals. Just so happened that Brazil scored five.

Anyway, what I meant by the 'Brazilians being Brazilians' comment was the press and fans down there just don't like it because the style isn't 'beautiful' enough for them. It's not enough for Brazil to win as far as they're concerned, they have to do it with style and flair or nobody's happy. They could give a shit less about a leaky defense. If they're weaker at all, it's nothing to do with tactics. Brazil's going through a transitional period at the moment, a changing of the guard if you will.

I saw an interview with some Brazilian journalists on TV today. They were complaining about Dunga's tactics, saying that it was all about the result and that he ran the team "like a company". They were pretty pissed off about not being allowed to attend training sessions, so maybe that is why they were so negative. In any case, it was kind of funny to see. Of course, there's more to Brazil than just stylish attacking, now more than ever.

Also, in the Netherlands, there is a latent debate that I expect to flare up that is similar to the one in England about Gerrard/Lampard: the question whether Van der Vaart and Sneijder can play together, especially when VdV is playing from the left. A good illustration of why the Netherlands were struggling yesterday (besides Olsen's good tactics):

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/1347/hollmovement.jpg

Related article: http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/06/14/holland-2-0-denmark-tactics/

Simply put: they were getting in each other's way!

This discussion has not really been held recently, because most pundits demand that the "big four" (Van Persie, Sneijder, Van der Vaart and Robben) play together at all times, and these players agreed themselves. However, I expect the question to come up again.

[Nwoye]

Good point WM. It will be interesting to look for that in their upcoming games, as I wasn't able to catch their first one.

On another note, fuck Christiano Ronaldo.

[praxis1966]

I saw an interview with some Brazilian journalists on TV today. They were complaining about Dunga's tactics, saying that it was all about the result and that he ran the team "like a company". They were pretty pissed off about not being allowed to attend training sessions, so maybe that is why they were so negative. In any case, it was kind of funny to see. Of course, there's more to Brazil than just stylish attacking, now more than ever.

Also, in the Netherlands, there is a latent debate that I expect to flare up that is similar to the one in England about Gerrard/Lampard: the question whether Van der Vaart and Sneijder can play together, especially when VdV is playing from the left. A good illustration of why the Netherlands were struggling yesterday (besides Olsen's good tactics):

Related article: http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/06/14/holland-2-0-denmark-tactics/

Simply put: they were getting in each other's way!

This discussion has not really been held recently, because most pundits demand that the "big four" (Van Persie, Sneijder, Van der Vaart and Robben) play together at all times, and these players agreed themselves. However, I expect the question to come up again.

Great article. I fell asleep during that match so it was good to read such a detailed analysis; far better than the one or two minute soundbites you usually get on television. I sort of had the same feeling about the Netherlands that you and the article's author had, though. In other words, how in the hell do you replace a guy like Arjen Robben? I guess the answer is you don't, not really. Troubling business for you guys going forward. Any news on when or if he's going to be back?

Incidentally, I read the article on the US - England match and the only place I think they missed the mark was in their assessment of the US forwards. I personally disagreed with the selection of Robbie Findley for the starting XI. I thought Edson Buddle, given his sparkling recent form, should've started. With him, I think you give yourself a much better chance of scoring as I believe he's the better finisher, not to mention that he's a tall, rangy Brian McBride type of forward. Stick him up there to wear on England's backs with Altidore making runs off him, then throw on the speed merchant Findley late on when the English backs are worn thin. Other than that, I thought it was right on.

[Wanted Man]

In other words, how in the hell do you replace a guy like Arjen Robben? I guess the answer is you don't, not really. Troubling business for you guys going forward. Any news on when or if he's going to be back?

I don't know about Robben. I wouldn't mind resting him until after the group stage, but perhaps he will be good to go before that. In the meantime, I would get Eljero Elia in there, who replaced VdV during the second half. He is no Robben yet, but I'm sure he can get there eventually.

Also, bear in mind that when Robben plays, it will probably be on the right, as that became his preferred position at Bayern. It turns out that, when played on the right, he is as dangerous as ever, plus he cuts inside and all kinds of other cool stuff. In that case, they could even play Elia and Robben on the wings.

Of course, that would mean sacrificing Kuyt and VdV, but that's what I would call a luxury problem; there are not many World Cup managers who are forced to make decisions like that.

[praxis1966]

I don't know about Robben. I wouldn't mind resting him until after the group stage, but perhaps he will be good to go before that. In the meantime, I would get Eljero Elia in there, who replaced VdV during the second half. He is no Robben yet, but I'm sure he can get there eventually.

Also, bear in mind that when Robben plays, it will probably be on the right, as that became his preferred position at Bayern. It turns out that, when played on the right, he is as dangerous as ever, plus he cuts inside and all kinds of other cool stuff. In that case, they could even play Elia and Robben on the wings.

Of course, that would mean sacrificing Kuyt and VdV, but that's what I would call a luxury problem; there are not many World Cup managers who are forced to make decisions like that.

I think what you're talking about might work. Personally, if it were me, I'd consider trying to get Elia and Robben on the park at the same time, Elia on the left Robben on the right. Play Sneijder in a more advanced role with Van der Vaart holding. Kuyt's the only one you really have to sacrifice, and the end result is a midfield remarkably like what got Bayern to the Champions' League final. Besides, Kuyt runs so hot and cold I don't know how you can rely on him for very long, nevermind that I've always liked him better in a more central role anyway. In the meantime, I think you have to play Elia from the start otherwise you'll just continue to run into the same problems. Further, those problems will only be compounded by the fact that Denmark's given the other teams in the group a glimpse at a way to beat you guys.

[Wanted Man]

I think what you're talking about might work. Personally, if it were me, I'd consider trying to get Elia and Robben on the park at the same time, Elia on the left Robben on the right. Play Sneijder in a more advanced role with Van der Vaart holding. Kuyt's the only one you really have to sacrifice, and the end result is a midfield remarkably like what got Bayern to the Champions' League final. Besides, Kuyt runs so hot and cold I don't know how you can rely on him for very long, nevermind that I've always liked him better in a more central role anyway. In the meantime, I think you have to play Elia from the start otherwise you'll just continue to run into the same problems. Further, those problems will only be compounded by the fact that Denmark's given the other teams in the group a glimpse at a way to beat you guys.

What you're saying is one of many variants that I find interesting. Two fast, true wingers, something that has not been done in a while because we had no good right-wingers. With Robben's switch of flanks this season and Elia's development, the option is open again. I doubt it will happen during this tournament very often, but it should be considered in the future.

There are so many variants to think of, all with their respective strengths and weaknesses. I remember during the second half against France at Euro 2008, Sneijder, VdV, Robben, Van Persie and Van Nistelrooy were all playing together in a kind of 4-3-3, and that was a fantastic performance. If all these top talents can produce the same kind of stuff this year, great things can happen.

[scarletghoul]

North Korea V Brazil about to start ! Woop. Who else is watching ?

[Sankofa]

I am. This will be interesting...

[praxis1966]

What you're saying is one of many variants that I find interesting. Two fast, true wingers, something that has not been done in a while because we had no good right-wingers. With Robben's switch of flanks this season and Elia's development, the option is open again. I doubt it will happen during this tournament very often, but it should be considered in the future.

Right, and if the opponent tries sealing off the wingers, then Van der Vaart and Sneijder slide through balls and lobs over the top to the forwards all day long. It's just too many damned things to defend against at once.


North Korea V Brazil about to start ! Woop. Who else is watching ?

Me. In other news, Kim Jong Il ain't the only crazy fucker in the DPRK. According to their coach, Kim Jong Hon, the president communicates with him concerning tactics and lineups via a top secret, invisible communication device. I'll see if I can find the story online later.

[Sankofa]

is that a direct quote from the coach? I thought that was something the analysts were just saying they'd heard about.

[ZeroNowhere]

North Korea seem to be getting 6 men into the defence (5 back, Yong right in front). Their packing of the defence certainly seems a better strategy than Australia's pushed up line, and their defence doesn't seem too bad thus far, so we'll have to see how long they can keep things solid. They can't seem to seriously threaten the Brazilian defence, however; their passing is actually quite accurate, at least, but they can't seem to make any space for themselves. Nonetheless, I won't make any predictions as yet, as strange things can happen in South Africa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003_Cricket_World_Cup#Knockout_stage).

Edit: The North Korean defence is pretty damn gutsy, with two brave headers recently, the first one being more of a deflection off the bloke's head which deflected an accurate Brazilian shot, without him flinching. They also seem to have potential on the counter, especially with Jong up front, but he doesn't seem to have enough support, as the rest of the team seem to take a bit too long to give some support.

[scarletghoul]

Yep, they're doing awesome. Wooooooop


Everyone's surprised haha

[Tifosi]

I feel like crying with that flat back five, BORING! but it seems the North Korea team beat me to it:laugh:

[Sankofa]

Yep, they're doing awesome. Wooooooop


Everyone's surprised haha

I'm quite shocked at the surprise that North Korea is doing so well. They did qualify to be there after all.

[ZeroNowhere]

Technically, though, so did Australia. I think that the main reason for the surprise is perhaps encapsulated in that moment where Kaka was, I believe, at the edge of the penalty area, and then tried what was presumably a cross or some such only to kick it straight into the NK defender. In other words, you've got the North Koreans, who are fairly obscure compared to Brazil, weathering the Brazilian attack including Kaka, Robinho, etc.

Anyway, this match has been pretty brilliant so far, and the DPRK defence has been impressive. Hopefully they can keep that up.

[scarletghoul]

I'm quite shocked at the surprise that North Korea is doing so well. They did qualify to be there after all.
Yeah but they're still not highly ranked and Brazil is considerd the best in the world. People just assumed Brazil would win by miles

[leftace53]

NK's ballin right now, I do hope they can keep it up.

[ZeroNowhere]

Well, shit. They seemed to be a bit slow at getting to Maicon this half, and it seems that that did not end well.

[Sankofa]

Damn it! Brazil just made a goal...fuck.

[leftace53]

fuck i knew i shouldn't have said anything :crying:

[Sankofa]

Shit, I hope at least they can end it 1-1.

[ZeroNowhere]

North Korea still seem unable to break the Brazilian defence, due to not really creating any space up front. They really need to get some men into the box, as well, as they just had a decent cross with nobody near it.

[leftace53]

:crying::crying:
noooooo
not cool brazil, not cool

[Sankofa]

It's over. 2-0 Brazil :(

[ZeroNowhere]

They seem to be getting tired by now. They certainly seem to need some fresh legs up front.

Edit: Hell yes. Seems a bit late, though. 1-2. Oh well, certainly a respectable score against Brazil. There's still the Ivory Coast and Portugal games, hopefully those go better.

[Sankofa]

Yeah, late as hell, but at least they scored.

....and the weather decided to have a thunder storm and knock out my tv the last 2 minutes of the game...what's happening!?

[ZeroNowhere]

It ended 1-2. There were a couple of long shots by the North Koreans in the last few minutes, although one perhaps should have been a cross, but neither went in. For the last minute of extra time the Brazilians were basically just winding down the clock.

[mykittyhasaboner]

Great game for Korea, even if they didn't get a point.

[manic expression]

DPRK...what heart, what discipline, what determination. Great showing by the DPR Korean side, I thought we had a shot at that at the end, a shame we let in that first goal at the near post...although to be honest, the way Brazil were taking shots at the goal from range in the 2nd half, part of me thought a goal was inevitable. Still, the Koreans can only hold their heads high. That knockdown header on the DPRK goal was excellent, and you can't ask for a more textbook finish than that.

From the look of the Cote D'Ivoire and Portugal match, if the DPRK keep playing like that they may (may) have a chance at staying in South Africa a bit longer than most had expected, especially if Brazil win the rest of the way through their group. We'll see what happens, it should be fun to watch.

[praxis1966]

Well butter my butt and call me a biscuit. Didn't see that one coming; I thought the DPRK had a shot at putting one in, but I figured Brazil would take their chances alot more efficiently. Guess that's what I get for thinking Fabiano could time a run or Kaka was going to be something other than a donkey. Robinho created the second goal to be sure, but he backed out of damned near every challenge he faced.

On the other hand, I'm digging this DPRK side. Plucky, confident, organized, disciplined, good passers, and efficient with their chances, what's not to like?

[Chimurenga.]

Great game for Korea, even if they didn't get a point.

Uhh... yeah, they did. I bawled my eyes out when they scored. DPRK showed a lot of heart and determination in this game. Impressed me, to say the least. They hung in with the top team and it was pretty close. If they play this well against Portugal and the Ivory Coast, we could very well see them come out on top on both games.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Well done Korea! Only lost by one goal against a giant like Brazil! Mayeb they can beat Portugal!

[Jeoh]

Very well played by the DPRK, was so close to being a tie...

[scarletghoul]

:) awesome ! I'm happy.

[F9]

lol i love it how the full defence of Korea, turns to be a good thing now that you people support korea.i dont like that kind of football ,and certainly dont want it to world cup.:)
They were decent(defensively) first half, and Brazilians seemed a bit lost with the tight defence, though whatever was said in half, they got in with more passion and they did what they know well, trick the opponents and score. Good from Korea was the attacker, number 9, seems the only decent player really.
As for close to a tie, heh, no it wasnt, it was close to a lot biggest margin, but seemed after 2-0 everyone wanted to score himself, they pointed to score again, and left defence alone, even lucio was dribbling and shooting in the attack:lol:
They stand no chance against either Portugal or CIV, of course its football, and they showed some good defense skills, but i would talk for a miracle if they get even a point.
Maicons goal was amazing, and lucky, i dont think he wanted that, even though seems keepers mistake, i wouldnt throw him the whole blame, its the correct move to move towards the players to stop the pass that could lead to an easy goal for the upcoming attacker, nice goal, probably lucky, if not, great idea from him.

[Spawn of Stalin]

They played a great game, congratulations to the DPRK. Getting a goal in against one of the greatest footballing nations of all time is an impressive feat.

Long live socialism

[Wanted Man]

I think everyone expected that NK would lose heavily, so this is a pretty interesting result. Brazil were very poor in the first half, but superior in the second. Of course, Brazil have the better players, so they were able to dominate possession, but the NK defence was very well-organised. I'm not sure who the NK central defenders were, but they were always in the right position.

I think NK did well to get a goal in against a side like Brazil, considering the vast differences between the two sides. Fully-fledged pros versus what is basically a semi-professional team plus a few 'foreign' reinforcements. Imagine if Accrington Stanley held their own against Chelsea for an entire half, conceding two in the second and actually getting a goal in.

This kind of thing is nice to see for the same reason that it was nice to see South Africa get the draw against Mexico. Whatever happens, I think they can go home with their heads high.


is that a direct quote from the coach? I thought that was something the analysts were just saying they'd heard about.

It would surprise me if he said that, because a reporter previously asked him if KJI determined the tactics, and he refused to answer (it's a dumb question anyway).

[mykittyhasaboner]

Uhh... yeah, they did.

Uhh, no they didn't. You don't get a point if you lose. I don't mean goals, I mean points.....group points.

[farleft]

Well done DPR of Korea

[Wanted Man]

Oh by the way, some rather silly World Cup news: http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jun/15/fifa-bavaria-beer-orange-dresses

I, for one, am glad our FIFA overlords nipped this diabolical plan by the Bavaria brewery in the bud (no pun intended). Clearly, girls in orange dresses are a massive threat to Anheuser-Busch InBev.

Let it be absolutely clear that the World Cup is sponsored by Budweiser and not by HEINEKEN, MILLER, BAVARIA, GROLSCH, PABST BLUE RIBBON, WARSTEINER, TAEDONGGANG or anyone else.

[F9]

lol yeah, seems a bit funny in the starts on how stupid they reacted, but i know how frustrated i would be if that would be happening to me, or someone i know.The only thing makes me say mehhh, is that it was at a national game, which means the people there had nationalists possibilities:lol: But in any way, the whole thing was fucking stupid, and really shows how sponsors, money and capitalism are taking over our loved game.The fight with the game seems lost actually, the only fight left to give is our teams, and thats one we are not giving up easily.

[Panda Tse Tung]

Good from Korea was the attacker, number 9, seems the only decent player really.
While i agree with most of the things you said, this is just a no way. Especially since i held epic rants against this player during the match towards anyone that could hear (that is anyone in the room with me). He was a selfish douchebag in the game, and if he had passed half of his half-assed goal attempts the game would've gone a lot better. But this was probably because he promised to score 1 goal in every match (why he was so desperately trying to score rather then play you know... a group game). Still, he sucked.

[manic expression]

While i agree with most of the things you said, this is just a no way. Especially since i held epic rants against this player during the match towards anyone that could hear (that is anyone in the room with me). He was a selfish douchebag in the game, and if he had passed half of his half-assed goal attempts the game would've gone a lot better. But this was probably because he promised to score 1 goal in every match (why he was so desperately trying to score rather then play you know... a group game). Still, he sucked.
That's a little harsh. He hustled all game, did his job when it came to holding up possession (against some formidable defenders) and made that wonderful layoff header that set up the goal. Sure, a bit selfish, but that's something you want to see in a striker. I think he had a solid outing, although he was a bit too selfish at times.

[Wanted Man]

The nr. 9 is the best person they have to finish their chances, at times the only one. I don't think he did that badly. There was only one occasion where he should have looked for the pass instead of trying to score. With this team, and against this opposition, he will only get a few chances to finish in every game, so I wasn't really surprised that he didn't manage to live up to his promise.

[Chimurenga.]

Uhh, no they didn't. You don't get a point if you lose. I don't mean goals, I mean points.....group points.

I stand corrected then.

[Panda Tse Tung]

The nr. 9 is the best person they have to finish their chances, at times the only one. I don't think he did that badly. There was only one occasion where he should have looked for the pass instead of trying to score. With this team, and against this opposition, he will only get a few chances to finish in every game, so I wasn't really surprised that he didn't manage to live up to his promise. I can think of 3 situations where he should've looked for a pass. One in which he kicked the ball on a fellow player, one in which he tried a major distance shot and the one in the end. Seeing as they didn't have that much chances thats 3 situations too many.


That's a little harsh. He hustled all game, did his job when it came to holding up possession (against some formidable defenders) and made that wonderful layoff header that set up the goal. Sure, a bit selfish, but that's something you want to see in a striker. I think he had a solid outing, although he was a bit too selfish at times. Well it is a selfishness they couldn't use seeing as they didn't get that many chances. Team > weird promises.

Edit: not saying he wasn't good overall. I just hate selfishness in football + as i stated earlier they had very little opportunities to score, so they should have been used optimally rather then selfishly.

[Wanted Man]

lol yeah, seems a bit funny in the starts on how stupid they reacted, but i know how frustrated i would be if that would be happening to me, or someone i know.The only thing makes me say mehhh, is that it was at a national game, which means the people there had nationalists possibilities:lol: But in any way, the whole thing was fucking stupid, and really shows how sponsors, money and capitalism are taking over our loved game.The fight with the game seems lost actually, the only fight left to give is our teams, and thats one we are not giving up easily.

By being "arrested" briefly, they got exactly what they wanted. If they were allowed to go on, nothing would have happened, as the dresses didn't have any brand names on them. The fact that they were promoting Bavaria was probably only known to people who followed every bit of Dutch World Cup news, which apparently includes FIFA.

Instead, they were "arrested" and now everyone is talking about the fact that a promotion team for Bavaria was arrested. Nice job, FIFA! By the way, I found it pretty funny that they managed to get their tickets from Robbie Earle, who got fired from ITV for his efforts. :lol:

[praxis1966]

Well, the first thing that occurred to me was that I had seen these ladies someplace before. Then I remembered something I saw on FSC's site. You can find a much better picture of them here (http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/worldcup/gallery/Babes-of-the-World-Cup#sport=World%20Cup&photo=11314834), you know, just so everybody's clear as to exactly what we're talking about.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

You can find a much better picture of them here (http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/worldcup/gallery/Babes-of-the-World-Cup#sport=World%20Cup&photo=11314834), you know, just so everybody's clear as to exactly what we're talking about.

Oh yeah. These pictures are very clear. Especially the South Korean girl. :thumbup1:

[ZeroNowhere]

I think everyone expected that NK would lose heavily, so this is a pretty interesting result. Brazil were very poor in the first half, but superior in the second. Of course, Brazil have the better players, so they were able to dominate possession, but the NK defence was very well-organised. I'm not sure who the NK central defenders were, but they were always in the right position.
To be honest, I think that the DPRK had had two central defenders free (ie. not busy marking somebody) at the back, but in the center and right sides. This seems to be why Maicon got more or less free reign after the DPRK got more tired and couldn't get a player (midfielder or one of the free defenders) to run up and stop him in time, whereas earlier they had generally managed.


They were decent(defensively) first half, and Brazilians seemed a bit lost with the tight defence, though whatever was said in half, they got in with more passion and they did what they know well, trick the opponents and score. Good from Korea was the attacker, number 9, seems the only decent player really.To be honest, I don't think that the Brazilians did much more of tricking the opponents in the second half as compared with the first. It was more a combination of fatigue and demoralization (after Brazil's goal, the DPRK defence was far less energetic until nearing the end.) As for the number 9, I don't think that he was any better than most of the rest of the team at performing his role.


lol i love it how the full defence of Korea, turns to be a good thing now that you people support korea.i dont like that kind of football ,and certainly dont want it to world cup.http://www.revleft.com/vb/../revleft/smilies/001_smile.gifOffensive sides are dull, in my opinion. I am getting quite sick of people claiming that Italy use a Catenaccio formation, or indeed that they are particularly defensive at all; it's giving them too much credit. But then, when it comes to football, I tend to prefer watching good defence to good offence by a large margin, so that's probably the difference.


He was a selfish douchebag in the game, and if he had passed half of his half-assed goal attempts the game would've gone a lot better. But this was probably because he promised to score 1 goal in every matchYeah, I found that a rather alarming promise. Hopefully, now that it's been broken already, he'll stop trying the 1 goal/game thing.


Very well played by the DPRK, was so close to being a tie...Yes, I think that things started to fall apart after the first goal. Given that one can hardly expect a marked increase in stamina in the next few days, they're definitely going to have to focus on that left flank weakness, and compensate for it somehow. While they could keep things solid in the first half, as they generally managed to stop Maicon, this began to slip in the second half, meaning that Brazil just had to maintain the attack through the game in order to score. They couldn't break down the NK first half defence, but they didn't have to, and this is NK's problem. They also need to work on getting more players up front for the counter-attack, given that, as a counter-attacking side, it would seem rather strange to have one player getting the ball and running up to the byline, but nobody nearby to receive a cross, as happened at least twice with Jong.


is that a direct quote from the coach? I thought that was something the analysts were just saying they'd heard about.To be honest, the commentators had heard of tons of stories about the DPRK that were so stereotypical, so to speak, that I'm not sure that they were all that likely to be true.


They stand no chance against either Portugal or CIV, of course its football, and they showed some good defense skills, but i would talk for a miracle if they get even a point.Well, it's a World Cup in South Africa, and the last time one of those happened, Kenya got through to the semis.

[Devrim]

I think everyone expected that NK would lose heavily, so this is a pretty interesting result.

I didn't. I think the days of teams such as El Salvador getting ten put past them a long past. The biggest (only!) 'thrashing' so far has been the German's 4-0, though I would imagine that the Swiss will get a bit of a beating tonight.


I think NK did well to get a goal in against a side like Brazil, considering the vast differences between the two sides. Fully-fledged pros versus what is basically a semi-professional team plus a few 'foreign' reinforcements. Imagine if Accrington Stanley held their own against Chelsea for an entire half, conceding two in the second and actually getting a goal in.

I think that you are wrong here, and I think the reason that you are wrong is exactly why these thrashings aren't happening.

The South Korean national team will not be 'semi-professionals'. They will be full time professional athletes with top fitness regimes. It is not like it used to be with teams made up of a postman, a bricklayer and an accountant.

When I worked at Skoda in the Czech Republic I remember talking to people there about sport in the Soviet period. Mlada Boleslav, which is the town where Skoda is based, are now a top league team, but in those days were idling in the second tier. The players were all 'employed' by the factory with non-existent jobs, and were effectively full time footballers.

That was Czech second division. Do you really imagine that a nation as nationalistic as North Korea doesn't have their players training full time? A look at where their squad plays its domestic football would be instructive. Five of them play for Amrokgang Sports Group, the club of the Ministry of Security. Six of them play for 4.25 Sports Group, which is the army team, and one plays for Kyonggongop Sports Group, the Ministry of Light Industry team. I am sure the other players come from similar sort of clubs. Now do you imagine that these people are a secret policeman, a squadie, and an office clerk, or that they are actually full time footballers.

Basically the fact that all teams are composed of professional athletes nowadays makes large thrashing more unlikely.

Devrim

[Devrim]

By being "arrested" briefly, they got exactly what they wanted. If they were allowed to go on, nothing would have happened, as the dresses didn't have any brand names on them. The fact that they were promoting Bavaria was probably only known to people who followed every bit of Dutch World Cup news, which apparently includes FIFA.

Instead, they were "arrested" and now everyone is talking about the fact that a promotion team for Bavaria was arrested. Nice job, FIFA!

Certainly, I think that they have got more publicity than they could have imagined from this.


By the way, I found it pretty funny that they managed to get their tickets from Robbie Earle, who got fired from ITV for his efforts. :lol:

Why did Robbie Earle have 50 tickets?

Devrim

[lombas]

Honduras-Chili: 0-1/0-2
Spain-Switzerland: 3-1
South-Africa-Uruguay: 1-2/2-2

[praxis1966]

Honduras-Chili: 0-1/0-2
Spain-Switzerland: 3-1
South-Africa-Uruguay: 1-2/2-2

Dude, Chile is a country in South America. Chili is a delicious stew from the Southwest region of the US.

[lombas]

Dude, Chile is a country in South America. Chili is a delicious stew from the Southwest region of the US.

Dude, I'm sorry I copied it and forgot to translate Chili into Chile.

http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chili

[praxis1966]

Dude, I'm sorry I copied it and forgot to translate Chili into Chile.

http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chili

Ah, ok. You know, I've never fully understood why speakers of certain languages do that. That is to say, change the names of countries or otherwise proper nouns. English speakers do it (Germany as opposed to Deutschland) and so do Spanish speakers (Alemania as opposed to Deutschland, to reuse the example). On the other hand, according to a German friend of mine, the Germans never alter the spelling of proper nouns from other languages. No offense to you because as I said English speakers do it too, but it's always seemed a little disrespectful to me.

[manic expression]

Ah, ok. You know, I've never fully understood why speakers of certain languages do that. That is to say, change the names of countries or otherwise proper nouns. English speakers do it (Germany as opposed to Deutschland) and so do Spanish speakers (Alemania as opposed to Deutschland, to reuse the example). On the other hand, according to a German friend of mine, the Germans never alter the spelling of proper nouns from other languages. No offense to you because as I said English speakers do it too, but it's always seemed a little disrespectful to me.
Well, they change "Cote d'Ivoire" to "Elfenbeinküste"...so the Germans aren't above it, either. Everyone changes names for countries...how many languages outside of China use "Zhong1 Guo3"?

[praxis1966]

Well, they change "Cote d'Ivoire" to "Elfenbeinküste"...so the Germans aren't above it, either. Everyone changes names for countries...how many languages outside of China use "Zhong1 Guo3"?

Huh. Well, like I said, alot of languages do it so I wasn't being particularly critical of any one people. But it just seems off to me. I guess it's because I've always been fascinated by language in general that I actually think about crap like this. I mean, I don't know too many other people who've actually considered it one way or the other.

[lombas]

Ah, ok. You know, I've never fully understood why speakers of certain languages do that. That is to say, change the names of countries or otherwise proper nouns. English speakers do it (Germany as opposed to Deutschland) and so do Spanish speakers (Alemania as opposed to Deutschland, to reuse the example). On the other hand, according to a German friend of mine, the Germans never alter the spelling of proper nouns from other languages. No offense to you because as I said English speakers do it too, but it's always seemed a little disrespectful to me.

Germans use Lüttich for Liège which is Luik in my language.

Germany and Alemania both refer to tribes once present in present Deutschland. There is some logic behind all this. The region was known by that name before Germany as a country even came to existence.

I live in Belgium, but before, say, the French revolution, "Belgium" meant the entire Low Countries (because that's what it means).

Lille, a city in Northern France, is known in Dutch as Rijsel. Complete nonsense, you might say, but this is because Rijsel once was a Flemish city known as Ter IJssel (on the isle - l'île in French).

Antwerp, the city were I live, is Anvers in French - because in Latin "Antverpia" is used: the v becoming a w in Dutch.

So you see, there often is logic behind it. Where it is not the case - like Montevideo in Uruguay or Tegucigalpa in Honduras, the names are mostly kept the same (only differing in accents).

:)

[lombas]

Ah, ok. You know, I've never fully understood why speakers of certain languages do that. That is to say, change the names of countries or otherwise proper nouns. English speakers do it (Germany as opposed to Deutschland) and so do Spanish speakers (Alemania as opposed to Deutschland, to reuse the example). On the other hand, according to a German friend of mine, the Germans never alter the spelling of proper nouns from other languages. No offense to you because as I said English speakers do it too, but it's always seemed a little disrespectful to me.

Besides, a quick look on Wiki teaches us this:

Etymology
There are various theories about the origin of the word Chile. According to a theory proposed by 17th century Spanish chronicler Diego de Rosales,[10] the Incas of Peru called the valley of the Aconcagua "Chili" by corruption of the name of a Picunche tribal chief ("cacique") called Tili, who ruled the area at the time of the Incan conquest in the 15th century.[11][12] Another theory points to the similarity of the valley of the Aconcagua with that of the Casma Valley in Peru, where there was a town and valley named Chili.[12]
Other theories say Chile may derive its name from the native Mapuche word chilli, which may mean "where the land ends,"[13] "the deepest point of the Earth,"[14] or "sea gulls;"[15] or from the Quechua chin, "cold", or the Aymara tchili, meaning "snow".[16] Another meaning attributed to chilli is the onomatopoeic cheele-cheele-the Mapuche imitation of a bird call.[13] The Spanish conquistadors heard about this name from the Incas, and the few survivors of Diego de Almagro's first Spanish expedition south from Peru in 1535-36 called themselves the "men of Chilli."[13] Ultimately, Almagro is credited with the universalization of the name Chile, after naming the Mapocho valley as such.

[Guerrilla22]

This Spain/Swiss game is intense!

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

lol, this game was the best. I love seeing Spain roll over and die. Delicious.

[praxis1966]

Christ on a pogo stick. I should've known Spain would find a way to choke. Incidentally, I wonder whether anyone here's considered the possibility of Spain progressing from second place in the group. That would mean they'd in all probability face Brazil in the round of 16. That should put to sword everyone on the planet's office pools.

Anyway...


Germans use Lüttich for Liège which is Luik in my language.

Germany and Alemania both refer to tribes once present in present Deutschland. There is some logic behind all this. The region was known by that name before Germany as a country even came to existence.

I live in Belgium, but before, say, the French revolution, "Belgium" meant the entire Low Countries (because that's what it means).

Lille, a city in Northern France, is known in Dutch as Rijsel. Complete nonsense, you might say, but this is because Rijsel once was a Flemish city known as Ter IJssel (on the isle - l'île in French).

Antwerp, the city were I live, is Anvers in French - because in Latin "Antverpia" is used: the v becoming a w in Dutch.

So you see, there often is logic behind it. Where it is not the case - like Montevideo in Uruguay or Tegucigalpa in Honduras, the names are mostly kept the same (only differing in accents).

:)

^This is what I get for starting a conversation about linguistics with a Belgian. You fuckers grow up speaking like 63 languages, which is just cheating. On the other hand, I'm handicapped because I was educated in the States. This is a country that doesn't bother teaching a second language to its children until the age of 14, which is not only ironic but stupid considering that scientific studies have shown that 14 is the age at which human beings begin to lose their capacity to learn language. I know what you're thinking, 'But I thought you said you're fascinated by language?' To which I can only say, 'There are million things in this world I find fascinating of which I have absolutely no understanding. Take women for instance...'

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

At this point 4 years ago there had 15 more goals. Its not been great so far...

[lombas]

^This is what I get for starting a conversation about linguistics with a Belgian. You fuckers grow up speaking like 63 languages, which is just cheating. On the other hand, I'm handicapped because I was educated in the States. This is a country that doesn't bother teaching a second language to its children until the age of 14, which is not only ironic but stupid considering that scientific studies have shown that 14 is the age at which human beings begin to lose their capacity to learn language. I know what you're thinking, 'But I thought you said you're fascinated by language?' To which I can only say, 'There are million things in this world I find fascinating of which I have absolutely no understanding. Take women for instance...'

Haha, I totally get it comrade. No worries.

:lol:

[lombas]

Honduras-Chili: 0-1/0-2
Spain-Switzerland: 3-1
South-Africa-Uruguay: 1-2/2-2

Hurray for one of my predictions!

For tomorrow:

Argentina-South-Korea: 2-1
Greece-Nigeria: 0-0 or 1-1
France-Mexico: 0-2

[Il Medico]

How the hell did the Swiss pull that off? Or, should I say, how the hell did Spain fuck up that badly???

[praxis1966]

How the hell did the Swiss pull that off? Or, should I say, how the hell did Spain fuck up that badly???

To answer the second question: Taking the result for granted, lack of wing play until it was too little and too late, piss poor marking and tackling, and a coach who refused to change tactics until he was behind.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Spain pummelled the Swiss, to be fair. 22 shots to 6? 12 corners to 3? They did everything but score. It were just one of those games. Now, with a bit of luck, and with Chile being a decent side, a draw in their next game could easily see them knocked out! Hurrah!

Tomorrow:

Argentina to beat Korea. Nigeria to beat Greece, who looked awful in their first game; they playing with lead in their boots or something? And i think Mexico will get the draw against France.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

I don´t support any country. The world cup is an excuse for big businessess profits, but no one thinks of the money that could have been invested in fighting poverty there, instead. Or the massive displacement and repression of the poor residents whose houses were demolished to make way for big developments for the rich, and relocated in dumpsters conveniently situated out of the view of the foreigners.

The world cup is the prostitution of something as beautiful as sport, and I will not support it, either supporting my "country" or going against it.

Do you know how much the London Council will spend in a big fucking ugly monument in front of the stadium for the olimpics? Enough to build at least 20 schools or three hospitals. And then they say there´s no money and we need to embrace austerity!

Sport should be a noble activity, it´s now just a circus, a profit making market and a blindfold for the masses. It´s a real pity.

I understand this. I dont pay to watch Football anymore (the odd boxing match i will shell out for). Football is the opiate of the masses. There are many aspects of football today that i dislike intensly. I particularly hate the SuperFan aspect that is perpetuated by the media; the real-blokes-cry-at-football-love-the-boys-more-than-life-itself wankfest.

Also seeing anyone under the age of 14 crying at football makes me feel a bit sick.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Uruguay pwned today. This will be a great cup for South America! :D

[praxis1966]

I understand this. I dont pay to watch Football anymore (the odd boxing match i will shell out for). Football is the opiate of the masses. There are many aspects of football today that i dislike intensly. I particularly hate the SuperFan aspect that is perpetuated by the media; the real-blokes-cry-at-football-love-the-boys-more-than-life-itself wankfest.

Also seeing anyone under the age of 14 crying at football makes me feel a bit sick.

It's usually at this point I like to quote A League of Their Own. Just substitute the word 'football' for the word 'baseball' and it works just as well.


Jimmy Dugan: Are you crying? Are you crying? ARE YOU CRYING? There's no crying! THERE'S NO CRYING IN BASEBALL!

Doris Murphy: Why don't you give her a break, Jimmy...

Jimmy Dugan: Oh, you zip it, Doris! Rogers Hornsby was my manager, and he called me a talking pile of pigshit. And that was when my parents drove all the way down from Michigan to see me play the game. And did I cry?

Evelyn Garnder: No, no, no.

Jimmy Dugan: Yeah! NO. And do you know why?

Evelyn Gardner: No...

Jimmy Dugan: Because there's no crying in baseball. THERE'S NO CRYING IN BASEBALL! No crying!


Uruguay pwned today. This will be a great cup for South America!

Yeah, I was just having a conversation about this with somebody the other day. Basically, I was saying that you never can rule out completely a South American side that's managed to qualify for the World Cup. They're all comparatively very skilled and sound in both fundamentals (ie they never seem to do anything really stupid on the pitch) and tactics. The fact alone that they don't regularly do stupid shit on the pitch gives them a distinct advantage over about half the teams participating. :lol:

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Yeah, I was just having a conversation about this with somebody the other day. Basically, I was saying that you never can rule out completely a South American side that's managed to qualify for the World Cup. They're all comparatively very skilled and sound in both fundamentals (ie they never seem to do anything really stupid on the pitch) and tactics. The fact alone that they don't regularly do stupid shit on the pitch gives them a distinct advantage over about half the teams participating. :lol:

You're right! Not only that, but outside Europe, it's always our teams who win the World Cup! I'm sure this cup will be latin american as well! :thumbup1:

[ZeroNowhere]

Wasted chances and awful passes aside, the Spanish team also seemed to have forgotten what defence is.

[praxis1966]

I'm a bit slow off the mark with today's predictions, but I'm saying Argentina 2 - 1 ROK, Nigeria 2 - 0 Greece, France 1 - 1 Mexico.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Argentina 4-1, PWNED to the max. Now the bourgeoise press can stop fapping to $outh Korea.

[Bilan]

Korea 1 vs 4 Argentina = great game.


I thought Korea was in with a chance in the first half, but man, they made some fucking rookie errors in the second.
Also their defence was utter shite.
But the Korean goal keeper, Sungryong, was awesome.
:thumbup1:

[Bilan]

You're right! Not only that, but outside Europe, it's always our teams who win the World Cup! I'm sure this cup will be latin american as well! :thumbup1:

Nah uh, tiger. Doesn't work like that. You can't barrack on a continent. That's lame. Pick a team.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Nah uh, tiger. Doesn't work like that. You can't barrack on a continent. That's lame. Pick a team.

Sure, I'll pick one team when it gets to the finals. :rolleyes:

[Sankofa]

1-0 Nigeria early in the first half. Let's hope they can keep it up.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Bad red card killed Nigeria...but there's still second half.

[F9]

Prove what a stupid red card can do...Get a shit team, to the leading possition of the game

[praxis1966]

Bad red card killed Nigeria...but there's still second half.

I don't know that I'd call the red card bad, but I would call Kaita an idiot. I mean, here's a dead ball situation, the entire stadium's looking, he's wearing those stupid neon yellow boots that can be seen from orbit, and he kicks out. Not that there's ever an excuse for doing something like that, you have to know that if you do and the referee spots it, you're going off. The worst part is that the announcers for ESPN were calling it harsh and trying to encourage the referee to use "common sense," but common sense went out the door when Kaita decided to do something completely rash. Besides, the referee has to consider the implications of not sending him off. In all probability the Greeks will retaliate for it, and then you have a serious problem on your hands.

As a player you've got to have more poise than that. Stupid, stupid, stupid.

[RadioRaheem84]

Red card changed the entire game.

Greece made a huge comeback! Nigeria is knocked out.

Greece will lose to Argentina unless they can muster an amazing game.

Korea will probably beat Nigeria. So S.Korea and Argentina look like the ones to advance.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Yeah, Kaita fucked up. I can't believe he fell for the Greeks' mocking, and Okosi lost an incredible goal. Why the hell didn't Lagerback put Kanu in? He would never miss that chance.

[praxis1966]

Red card changed the entire game.

Greece made a huge comeback! Nigeria is knocked out.

Greece will lose to Argentina unless they can muster an amazing game.

Korea will probably beat Nigeria. So S.Korea and Argentina look like the ones to advance.

Nigeria's not out. If they beat South Korea by two goals and Argentina beats Greece by any scoreline, Nigeria still go through on goal difference. The door is still open, but only just a crack. My predictions are already all shot to shit, though. Grossly underestimated the margin of victory in the Argentina match and pretty much got the exact opposite of what I expected from Nigeria. I'm thinking of revising my prediction for the France - Mexico match, though. Something tells me Mexico might find a way to eek this one out.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

LOL at France, pwned to the max. The latin american teams are invincible this year!

[lombas]

Hurray for one of my predictions!

For tomorrow:

Argentina-South-Korea: 2-1
Greece-Nigeria: 0-0 or 1-1
France-Mexico: 0-2

I came pretty close!

Tomorrow:

Germany-Serbia: 3-1
Slovenia-US: 1-2
England-Algeria: 3-0

[praxis1966]

For tomorrow:

Germany 2 - 0 Serbia
Slovenia 0 - 2 US
England 3 - 0 Algeria

[Nwoye]

haha France

[Jdalichau]

Mexico sure pulled that out their ass today....... I thought Blanco was in a museum in an undisclosed location :laugh:

J

[praxis1966]

Mexico sure pulled that out their ass today....... I thought Blanco was in a museum in an undisclosed location :laugh:

J

Me too. I'd heard that he'd been relocated to the Museum of Neckless Meso-Americans.

[RadioRaheem84]

Mexico.....just wow.

Although I think Uruguay's gonna put the hurt on them.

South Africa will also beat France.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Slovenia to destroy the USA tomorrow. I'm gonna love it. ;)

[Guerrilla22]

Germany 4 Serbia 0
USA 1 Slovenia 0
England 2 Algeria 1

[praxis1966]

Slovenia to destroy the USA tomorrow. I'm gonna love it. ;)

You must be high.

[Bilan]

You must be high.

Nah, his/her preference is based on their super radical anti-imperialist politics. Cuz paper tigers suck at football.
...or will beat the bollocks out of Slovenia.

I'm thinking USA will probably win that one.

Tonight (for us), Germany is going to smack down. A repeat of their battering of Australia, I'm betting.

[ComradeOm]

Tonight (for us), Germany is going to smack down. A repeat of their battering of Australia, I'm betting.Depends if Serbia play like they did last week or as they're capable of

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

You must be high.

Gotta be optimistic. That, and the USA is more likely to fail against smaller teams than bigger teams, oddly enough.

[mykittyhasaboner]

Serbia is playing much better, 1-0 for them so far.

The ref is fucking crazy though. Keep the cards in your pocket, not every foul is a yellow card! Klose got sent off for practically nothing.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

LOL at the horrible referee, this is awesome. Klose will never surpass Ronaldo now, pwnt.

[manic expression]

This is absolutely absurd. This idiot ref needs to be on the first flight back to YellowCardLand or wherever the hell he came from.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

And to compensate for the last cup, the horrid refs are helping the sides I cheer for this year. :laugh:

[manic expression]

Cheer for your teams all you want, but cheering for terrible reffing is just stupid. That was a disgrace of a match...would have been fun to watch if not for the clown in black. That ref has no business being near a FIFA match for the rest of his life. Germany's still got a shot to have some justice as long as Australia keeps it close with Serbia.

Anyway, now time for the US...let's GO USA!

[praxis1966]

Gotta be optimistic. That, and the USA is more likely to fail against smaller teams than bigger teams, oddly enough.

Actually, you're probably more right in this assessment than I care to admit. I was talking to another American football junkie friend of mine before the England match, and she's all, 'You just wait, we'll beat the pants off of England and then do something stupid like lose to Slovenia. It's the American way.' I'm reminded of the 2002 World Cup, where we beat Portugal 3 - 2, drew with South Korea 1 - 1, and I'm thinking things are going great because Poland have already shown themselves as the weakest side in the group. And then we go out and get pasted by them 3 - 0. If it weren't for South Korea also beating Portugal, we'd have gone out in the first round. Instead, we wind up going all the way to the quarters.

Anyway, of the three "upsets" so far in this cup, I think the German loss today is the most surprising when you consider how they played against the Australians. Although I missed the first half today, the Germans definitely looked a completely different side than the one who slaughtered the Aussies last week, so I can't imagine that the red card didn't drastically affect them.

Anyway, since I missed the first half, anybody here that saw it who could tell me whether they thought the Klose red card was justified?

[F9]

Rules do justify yellow card, but for fucks sake, a foul in the middle of the stadium, there was no direct chance for scoring, you cant give a second yellow and a red card for such a foul, especially when the player committed just his second foul. It was stupid from Klose too, there was no need to foul over there, but its stupid to give a red card in world cup in the middle of the stadium, for a simple foul.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Cheer for your teams all you want, but cheering for terrible reffing is just stupid. That was a disgrace of a match...would have been fun to watch if not for the clown in black. That ref has no business being near a FIFA match for the rest of his life. Germany's still got a shot to have some justice as long as Australia keeps it close with Serbia.

Anyway, now time for the US...let's GO USA!

The refereeing is terrible, but fans of the opposite side can't do anything, can they? That, and it's hard to forget the german equalizer goal against Argentina, where Ballack stepped in the pitch for the throw-in. Refereeing in a world cup shouldn't be this horrible, but when it happens and it favors my side, I'd rather sit and laugh than complain with the opposing team, lol.

Anyway, USA vs Slovenia is a good match. Let's see what happens.


Rules do justify yellow card, but for fucks sake, a foul in the middle of the stadium, there was no direct chance for scoring, you cant give a second yellow and a red card for such a foul, especially when the player committed just his second foul. It was stupid from Klose too, there was no need to foul over there, but its stupid to give a red card in world cup in the middle of the stadium, for a simple foul.

You're right. Bad referee, but Klose baited him too much. Right before that foul, he had ignored the offside call, and he should have noticed the referee was yellow card-crazy, as he had given 5 cards before that foul.

[manic expression]

Rules do justify yellow card, but for fucks sake, a foul in the middle of the stadium, there was no direct chance for scoring, you cant give a second yellow and a red card for such a foul, especially when the player committed just his second foul. It was stupid from Klose too, there was no need to foul over there, but its stupid to give a red card in world cup in the middle of the stadium, for a simple foul.
Both of Klose's fouls were routine at most. No justification for yellow. None. Not even close. Not even remotely close. Giving one yellow for all of Klose's fouls combined would have still been suspect (although just maybe justifiable if you stretch the letter of the law as far as possible).

Oh, and towards the end of the match the Serbian striker bear-hugged Neuer (the GK) after the ball had been collected...not even a whistle. This ref needs to be investigated, chewed out and castigated, thrown out of South Africa and never assigned a FIFA international match for the rest of his pathetic life. He should be a 4th referee in the Faroe Islands 2nd division. I thought we were done with this crap after the 06 WC...but I guess not.

So now that the organizers of the 2010 WC have shat the bed with the vuvuzelas, the pitches, the attendance, the ball and NOW the reffing...what else are they going to mess up before the final whistle? They need to get it together.

Whatever. If Germany beat Ghana (not a small task but they can do it), they're almost sure to go through, and if Australia force a tie against Ghana and/or Serbia, their chances are pretty damn good in spite of Sir Yellow Card. They just need to forget about this travesty and keep doing their thing.

Alright, now for the US-Slovenia match. Come on boys in blue!

[F9]

Both of Klose's fouls were routine at most. No justification for yellow. None. Not even close. Not even remotely close. Giving one yellow for all of Klose's fouls combined would have still been suspect (although just maybe justifiable if you stretch the letter of the law as far as possible).

By rule, any foul from behind it is a yellow card.

[manic expression]

By rule, any foul from behind it is a yellow card.
http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/lawsofthegame.html

Page 118:

Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force and endangering the safety of an opponent is guilty of serious foul play.

That's the only portion that deals specifically with challenges "from behind", and that's most clearly not what Klose did. This deals with what he did (page 113):

If a player plays in a dangerous manner in a “normal” challenge, the referee should not take any disciplinary action. If the action is made with obvious risk of injury, the referee should caution the player

Like I said, no justification.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

LOL USA, go back to american football. :p

[RadioRaheem84]

USA has really strong midfielders with Dempsey and Donovan but our strikers are horrible! God awful. I am sorry, but one good run by Altidore during the England match doesn't do him and Findley any justice. Both goals have been from good attacking midfielders. They've been giving excellent balls to the strikers all game who've pretty much mucked up every chance. Donavon just took it all the way, no one to pass it too, and scored a brilliant goal.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

Wow, I admit the USA played really well in the second half. Didn't think they would pull that off. Donovan's goal was really impressive.

[RadioRaheem84]

The US was bad ass. Slovenia was good too but the second half was all 'Murica!

Donavon, man of the match. Still say our strikers are weak. Midfielders keep picking up their slack. :(

[manic expression]

J'ACCUSE!!! J'ACCUSE!!!! WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?! FUCK YOU REFS, FUCK YOU EVERY FUCKING WAY POSSIBLE YOU SHITEATING DOUCHEBAGS!!!!!!!!!!!!

A CLEAR GOAL disallowed for NOTHING. FUCK THAT.

And if I have to pull up the fucking laws of the fucking game AGAIN to show any of you why we just got ROBBED, I'm gonna fucking lose it. For real.

[praxis1966]

Tomorrow's headlines should read 'USA Wins, Loses to Referee', This was absolutely the worst officiated match I've ever seen in my life. A yellow card for an intentional handball against Robbie Findley when the ball hits him in the face? Two US players dragged to the ground in the box whilst Maurice Edu sticks the ball in the back of the net for the winner, and the referee blows for a foul against the US. Completely fucking unbelievable. Nevermind a whole host of calls that went exactly the opposite direction they should have. I hope that guy gets stripped of his refereeing credentials.

Edit: Landon Donovan's doing an interview with ESPN right now and he just said that the US players asked what the call was on the disallowed goal, and the referee absolutely refused to tell them. FUCKING WORTHLESS PIECE OF SHIT.

[RadioRaheem84]

Anyone know just what the hell the ref saw in the last free kick by the US which led to a goal?

I saw many repeats of the play and did not see any fouls! IF anything there were nearly half a dozen Slovenian players committing fouls against the US players! That was a goal and the ref robbed it from us.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

J'ACCUSE!!! J'ACCUSE!!!! WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?! FUCK YOU REFS, FUCK YOU EVERY FUCKING WAY POSSIBLE YOU SHITEATING DOUCHEBAGS!!!!!!!!!!!!
A CLEAR GOAL disallowed for NOTHING. FUCK THAT.

And if I have to pull up the fucking laws of the fucking game AGAIN to show any of you why we just got ROBBED, I'm gonna fucking lose it. For real.

Wow calm down. The USA got robbed, but that tie makes it very easy for them to qualify, just beat Algeria 2-0.

Edited by Fuserg9:Edited in order to reflect the edit of the quote.

[RadioRaheem84]

Has there ever been a recall of the play in FIFA history to grant a goal to the winning side? Because we were fucking robbed. No if ands or buts! Robbed, fucking robbed! :mad:

[manic expression]

Wow calm down. The USA got robbed, but that tie makes it very easy for them to qualify, just beat Algeria 2-0.
Stop enabling terrible and blind refs. We got robbed...the match against Algeria shouldn't even be a fucking topic right now. Period. J'afuckingccuse!

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

It's definitely not justified, but that goal may have been overturned because the refs may have thought the foul was dubious. Still a bad call, though.

[manic expression]

It's definitely not justified, but that goal may have been overturned because the refs may have thought the foul was dubious. Still a bad call, though.
WHAT FUCKING FOUL!? THERE WAS NO FOUL EXCEPT BY THE FUCKING SLOVENIAN DEFENDER WHO WAS TRYING TO JAIL-RAPE BRADLEY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There is no discussion of this beyond: FUCK THE REFS.

[praxis1966]

It's definitely not justified, but that goal may have been overturned because the refs may have thought the foul was dubious. Still a bad call, though.

Well that wasn't the case, because the call that led to the free kick in the first place was a valid one. Even if you were right, though, it's still terrible fucking refereeing.

[Comrade Hoxha Hysni]

I mean the foul outside the box, which gave the USA a free kick, was dubious. As I said, not justified, though.

[RadioRaheem84]

That was too, too weird. I tried to see what the ref saw several times but just couldn't. There was nothing there.

At least we know that we won the game. If we beat Algeria, we may advance but I think that is only if England beats Slovenia!

[RadioRaheem84]

All the papers in the US (in the back end of the Sports section :laugh:), will say that we won the match and the ref was just bonkers.

[manic expression]

I mean the foul outside the box, which gave the USA a free kick, was dubious. As I said, not justified, though.
You HAVE to be kidding me. Just stop. Stop now. There are 10,000 reasons why that's an insane argument, and even if it was true, even if they were trying to do a make-up call...that's the CARDINAL SIN OF A REF. I used to be a qualified ref so PLEASE do not push that BS here. Maybe on Slovenialovesrefswhogivethempointstheydontearn.com , but not here.

[praxis1966]

WHAT FUCKING FOUL!? THERE WAS NO FOUL EXCEPT BY THE FUCKING SLOVENIAN DEFENDER WHO WAS TRYING TO JAIL-RAPE BRADLEY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There is no discussion of this beyond: FUCK THE REFS.

If that's what you saw then you missed a foul, too. Clint Dempsey got mauled just as badly as Bradley was.