The Official EURO 2012 thread

[Bandito]

Who are you supporting? How do you think your team will do?

My pick for this Euro is France, just because they have been underachieving for years, and they finally have a descent manager and a revamped squad. Loss of Sagna and M'Vila will go noticed, but they have Debuchy and Cabaye on those positions. Ribery is having the season of his lifetime, and Blanc gave him sort of a free role in the midfield, so he will be a constant thread. With Benzema up front, they should be a killer team. Their defense was arguable last years, but now that Sakho and Koscielny have matured, they look great in that department too.

My second pick is my favorite national team - Holland. Sneijder, Robben and Van Persie are dreadful when combined, and their unsuccesful friendly campaign shouldn't be an indicator of how will they do.

Favorites are definitely Spain, but I just don't see them lifting a trophy this year.

I'm also fairly sure that England will fuck it up again. Terrible choice of a manager, injuries (Lampard, Cahill, Walker etc.) will butcher them, and one Rooney was never enough.

Thoughts?

[Sasha]

Dutch team will never make it past the first round, portugal and germany will butcher them.
Spain and Italy will do poorly to, my money is on Germany or a eastern-european suprise...

[Workers-Control-Over-Prod]

Well, i think that this will Not be such a Good Year. The German squad is Young and Not yet played in, but in comparison to the Rest of European Teams, Germany dös Look Likely to win.

[Tifosi]

Well, i think that this will Not be such a Good Year.

Every Euro Championship is good, no crap teams, everyone can beat everyone on a good day...

I'm going with Poland, home team with great support behind them. I expect Lewandowski to be shit hot with his Dortmund team mates riding high after the double. They have shown they can play with the best, wins against Argentina and draws against Germany and Portugal.

[Bandito]

Group with Germany, Portugal, Denmark and Netherlands will certainly be the most interesting one.

I'm going with Holland and Germany for this one. Denmark will most certainly get some points, which will decide the order in the group, but I don't see them as a threat here. Portugal, on the other hand, doesn't have a team - they have Ronaldo. Their defense is bad, and I recon they might even finish last in the group stage.

[Tim Cornelis]

Dutch team will never make it past the first round, portugal and germany will butcher them.
Spain and Italy will do poorly to, my money is on Germany or a eastern-european suprise...

No way, Portugal has only won once of the last six matches. They are doing terribly. Germany also lost something like 5 - 2 (or 3--I forgot) to Switzerland.
I think the Netherlands and Germany will end 1 and 2 in no particular order.

[Permanent Revolutionary]

I always support Italy, but I believe Germany will win. I had Croatia as second favorites until Olic got injured.

[Manic Impressive]

Anyone but England Anyone but England LA LA LA LA....LA LA LA LA

people will probably moan at me for saying that, they did last time. But winning would cause a horrible upsurge in patriotism and nationalism, also by supporting anyone but England I'll be sure not to be disappointed :D

p.s. I don't think Roy Hodgson is actually as bad as people make out. He did well with Switzerland ffs

[Sasha]

conclusion, everyone has no hope for their respective national team.... figures on a rad leftist board...

[F9]

LETS GO CYPRUS!!!!

wait... what?:confused:

will come back to this soon;)

[Luc]

my teams will win obviously :sleep:

anyone know free live streams for an american comrade? got infrequent coverage on cable :/
i got a couple il post when im no my netbook (its in its bookmarks) just dont know if they are reliable

[F9]

my teams will win obviously :sleep:

anyone know free live streams for an american comrade? got infrequent coverage on cable :/
i got a couple il post when im no my netbook (its in its bookmarks) just dont know if they are reliable

download sopcast and google wizwig

[Bronco]

I don't actually think Roy was that bad an appointment, he's got a good record apart from Liverpool and has done it before on an international level. Still think England will struggle to get through the groups though and we definitely won't win, but it is nice to not have loads of hype surrounding the team this year

[Bandito]

Hodgson is a terrible choice.

The type of football he played with Liverpool is completely out of fashion, plus it needs creative players in the midfield, which England simply don't have. As much as I dislike wrinkly old 'Arry Redknapp, he would be far better for England.

As for the hype around the team, we all know how that went every time when there was a hype - check last World Cup.

P.S.

I never support Serbia, even if they qualified.

But after the incident when that idiot Mihajlović removed a Muslim player from the national team because he wouldn't sing the national anthem - I'd be over the moon every time they lose.

[DDR]

The sooner spain looses, the sooner I can see the eurocup relaxed. Last Euro, in my town I foud arround 40 franquist flags hanging in balconies, at the same time in my house there was a banner from the Platform in Defense of the River Tagus, the police came and aske me to remove it (of course I didn't) but the fascist flags remained until the end of summer.

[Bandito]

DDR, is the supposed conflict between Barcelona and Real Madrid players in the national team connected to politics? I remember a lot of fireworks in the matches between those clubs, but seems difficult to understand a bunch of professionals not standing each other just because of the club's crest, so I thought that there might be some progressive stuff about the Catalan player's attitude.

[DDR]

DDR, is the supposed conflict between Barcelona and Real Madrid players in the national team connected to politics? I remember a lot of fireworks in the matches between those clubs, but seems difficult to understand a bunch of professionals not standing each other just because of the club's crest, so I thought that there might be some progressive stuff about the Catalan player's attitude.

It's a difficult thing for players, all is bullshit but for some media (the ultra reactionary media, ABC, La (sin)Razon, Intereconomia and Co. Telemadrid [public television network from the State of Madrid, controlled ironhaded by the PP]), they are the ones who make a lot of noise about it. For example, while in today's front page of Liberation, Financial Times, Der Spigel, etc. apears the Spanish Banking Crisis as the main news, La Razon opens up with the new that nor the city of Barcelona, nor the city Bilbao will put big screens in the mayor square to see the damned match, see it for yourselves: http://imgur.com/0LrEM

But the main polemic about this was some declarations from Xavi if I recall correctly that the Real Madrid was not nice to the Barça when they won.

And the only pregressive player that I remember from Barça is Oleguer.


anyone know free live streams for an american comrade? got infrequent coverage on cable :/

I dunno if this can be posted if not sorry for it, anyway help yourselves:

http://www.rojadirecta.me/

[Metacomet]

Lets go Greece :D

[Luc]

download sopcast and google wizwig

awsome thank you! this will help alot :)

[RedAnarchist]

I would like to see Ireland do well, but I don't see them getting out of their group. I see Spain and Germany being two of the semi-finalists.

Here's what I think will happen -

Group A winners - Czech Republic
Group A runners-up - Greece

Group B winners - Germany
Group B runners-up - this one is very hard to call, but I think the Netherlands will get second

Group C winners - Spain
Group C runners-up - Italy (although like B I could see anyone qualifying from the group)

Group D winners - Sweden
Group D runners-up - England (but only just)

Czech Republic vs Netherlands - Netherlands win
Spain vs England - Spain win
Germany vs Greece - Germany win
Italy vs Sweden - Italy

Netherlands vs Spain - Spain win
Germany vs Italy - Germany win

Spain vs Germany - I think this will be a very close one, but I think Spain can retain their title

[bricolage]

as always am praying for an england exit as soon as possible.
i suppose the obvious thing to say is spain to win but i'm thinking france, don't expect any surprises from the host nations (despite the home advantage) but move a step east and I have a feeling russia will go far. other than that meh, I'm not really a massive international football fan (on account of how boring it normally is) and will just be hoping for plenty goals and just as many red cards.

[pastradamus]

Here's what I think will happen -

Group A winners - Czech Republic
Group A runners-up - Greece

Group B winners - Germany
Group B runners-up - this one is very hard to call, but I think the Netherlands will get second

Group C winners - Ireland
Group C runners-up - Italy (although like B I could see anyone qualifying from the group)

Group D winners - Sweden
Group D runners-up - England (but only just)

Czech Republic vs Netherlands - Netherlands win
Ireland vs England - Ireland win
Germany vs Greece - Germany win
Italy vs Sweden - Italy

Netherlands vs Ireland - Ireland win
Germany vs Italy - Germany win

Ireland vs Germany - I think this will be a very close one, but I think the Republic of Ireland can win the title

Quote edited to reflect what will actually happen.

[Bronco]

No jokes please

[pastradamus]

No jokes please
Who said anything about jokes? :D

[pastradamus]

Nah but in seriousness, If I was gambling, Id back Netherlands/Spain/Germany but id probably pick the Germans in the end because they will have an easier route if the win that group. I think people here underrate Russia. They have a seriously good team and can do quite well in this.

[Bronco]

Got a couple of quid on Poland as an outside bet at 42/1, got a few good players in that team

[Tifosi]

What did I tell ya... Lewandowski is a man on fire this year:)

[Manic Impressive]

How much do you think the Polish are paying the referee?

[Bronco]

Haha I think he just enjoys sending people off, he gave 16 red cards in 19 la liga games last season apparently

[Manic Impressive]

ok I spoke too soon :o

[Tim Cornelis]

As was to be expected, Russia won to Czech Republic. The Czech team has been on the decline for years, and Russia is a rising star.

[RedAnarchist]

I think I should reconsider predicting the Czechs to win their group, that's for sure.

[Conflict]

I think the Germans will win. They are a perfect blend of youth and experience.

[pastradamus]

I think I should reconsider predicting the Czechs to win their group, that's for sure.

I was surprised to see you didn't have Russia coming out of that group. Greece and Poland are arguably the worst two teams in it. The only reason Ladbrokes had them at reasonably good odds 66-1 & 42-1 when compared to Ireland 80-1 was because Greece won it before and Poland were at home in an easy enough group. When Ireland played Russia in the group stage I was terrified of them by the agressive and quick way in which they played. I find it hard to believe we got a draw out of them in Moscow.

[magicme]

I'm hopeful England are going to win, I'm expecting Gerard and Rooney to confirm themselves as truly world class players in this competition. It's gonna be fantastic.

[F9]

Stickied

I remember last euro(or was it world cup?) we had a mini prediction competition application running!!It was cool, too bad we dont have now, i would win again though:tt2:

[Bandito]

Croatian national team refused to visit Auschwitz, their spokesperson said that they'd rather "pay respect to the victims of communism".

I seriously don't know where to begin on commenting that.

[brigadista]

IRELAND - already been to the bookies - with you there Pastradamas - and I won on the national this year...

[Ocean Seal]

Croatian national team refused to visit Auschwitz, their spokesperson said that they'd rather "pay respect to the victims of communism".

I seriously don't know where to begin on commenting that.
Well that's not fascist sympathizing at all...

[Thirsty Crow]

Croatian national team refused to visit Auschwitz, their spokesperson said that they'd rather "pay respect to the victims of communism".

I seriously don't know where to begin on commenting that.
No surpirses there, the whole of the organization is teeming with vermin. But still, this is foul even for such a merry bunch.
Hope they get their assess kicked, scum.

[Manic Impressive]

Croatian national team refused to visit Auschwitz, their spokesperson said that they'd rather "pay respect to the victims of communism".

I seriously don't know where to begin on commenting that.
Have you got a source on that, don't mind what language. Can't find anything through a google search. It's not that I don't believe you, it's just if I reprint that elsewhere I'd rather have a definite source.

[hatzel]

Have you got a source on that, don't mind what language. Can't find anything through a google search. It's not that I don't believe you, it's just if I reprint that elsewhere I'd rather have a definite source.

This (http://www.jutarnji.hr/nasa-reprezentacija-nece-posjetiti-auschwitz--idu-odati-pocast-zrtvama-komunizma-/1033715/) has been posted up on Twitter. I don't...understand it...but I guess that as the headline has the words 'Auschwitz' and 'komunizma' it's probably the story we're looking for...

[Tim Cornelis]

This (http://www.jutarnji.hr/nasa-reprezentacija-nece-posjetiti-auschwitz--idu-odati-pocast-zrtvama-komunizma-/1033715/) has been posted up on Twitter. I don't...understand it...but I guess that as the headline has the words 'Auschwitz' and 'komunizma' it's probably the story we're looking for...

Yep, run it through Google translate. Also look at the facebook comments below, full of praises and right-wing propaganda. "Good decision!", etc. Disgusting.

[Bandito]

No surpirses there, the whole of the organization is teeming with vermin. But still, this is foul even for such a merry bunch.
Hope they get their assess kicked, scum.

I know that this was not the players' fault, but if any of them had any decency, he'd step out of the national squad immediately.

[Thirsty Crow]

I know that this was not the players' fault, but if any of them had any decency, he'd step out of the national squad immediately.
I don't think it would be reasonable to expect such a development, no matter the personal dignity and integrity of individual players.
But still, it's even less reasonable to expect that children of immigrants in Australia, if you catch my drift, would do such a thing. The best one culd expect is a statment by individual players, but even this is far from sure (I'd say that it definitely won't happen, and that people are probably apathetic if not already in bed with Marković and his brilliant ideas).

@Manic Impressive: I found a source, it's legit:

http://www.jutarnji.hr/nasa-reprezentacija-nece-posjetiti-auschwitz--idu-odati-pocast-zrtvama-komunizma-/1033715/

(one of the two most important mainstream newspapers in the country)

[hatzel]

I feel this is rapidly sliding towards something that probably warrants its own thread, but I'm actually not entirely certain what to make of this...seeming urge to engage diligently with the spectacle of Auschwitz, the squads as squads (often uniformly clad in official team-garb), all photographed as representatives of the squad performing some ritual...I can't quite get my head around this, the motivation for it, why this or that squad felt it appropriate or even necessary to make such a gesture...

[Manic Impressive]

@Manic Impressive: I found a source, it's legit:

http://www.jutarnji.hr/nasa-reprezentacija-nece-posjetiti-auschwitz--idu-odati-pocast-zrtvama-komunizma-/1033715/

(one of the two most important mainstream newspapers in the country)
Thanks it's the same link that Hatzel gave ;)

To save others time here's the google translate version.
Decided by the Croatian Football Federation, and the main reason stated is the fact that Auschwitz Wark of approximately 300 kilometers

Decided by the Croatian Football Federation, and the main reason to the fact that the Auschwitz of Warka, a city in which our team is located, about 300 kilometers away.
Memorial

HNS president Vlatko Markovic told the daily stresses that "everyone is entitled to their opinion," and that I was once, at the time of Yugoslavia, visited the notorious Nazi concentration camp that killed more than a million people.
We are not going to Auschwitz, but was almost 90 percent certain that we will visit a memorial and pay tribute to murdered Polish officers in the woods Katynskoj - Markovic says.

Katinski massacre occurred 1940th under the leadership of the Soviet Ministry of Internal Affairs, which killed more than 20 thousand Poles. Our distinguished historians believe that the same gesture, and certainly should do for the victims of Nazism.
No comment!

Historian Tvrtko Jakovina our team welcomes the intention to honor all victims of the massacre katinskog, but hardly recognizes the argument that it can not pay tribute to victims of Nazism just because of distance.

- Memorials and victims of Nazi and Communist regimes are found in almost every Polish city. So that would then be sure to pay homage to the victims of Nazism. It would be a very nice gesture, especially because of the ideology promoted by some Polish fans and other fan groups. However, such a gesture from the leadership of HNS is illusory to expect - Jakovina says.

The historian Ivo Goldstein says the commemoration of the victims of Nazism was "good for their own sake and for the total atmofere the Croatian national team."

The fact that we are in the CFF said that the Croatian team to pay tribute to victims of the communist regime just does not want to comment on Goldstein.

And it's the Katyn massacre that they're talking about

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katyn_massacre

[Bronco]

So is the reason not more that the team is staying 300 km's away from Auschwitz (compared to the Dutch, Italian and English teams in Krakow) as opposed to them holding a complete disregard for the Nazi's victims?

[Sasha]

20 minutes left to turn this arround, I don't mind if the dutch lose deservedly but this would be very undeserved... hope klaas-jan huntelaar can deliver...

[Sasha]

So is the reason not more that the team is staying 300 km's away from Auschwitz (compared to the Dutch, Italian and English teams in Krakow) as opposed to them holding a complete disregard for the Nazi's victims?

A dutch journalist managed the headline "injury *dutch players name* not as bad as horrors auschwitz", guess we should be happy it was not the other way around.

[Sasha]

Come on! at least give me one! Fucking hell this is bad...

[Sasha]

Fuck that referee..

[Sasha]

That was not necessary... if the germans slaughter the dutch Wednesday its all over...

[Tim Cornelis]

What the fuck. It was like there were 6 orange fucking snails in the back, and 4 orange elephants in the front. Jesus christ. They were slow as hell, unbelievable.

They had TWO shots on target, TWO. And they score once. We had 30 fucking shots on target, we score ZERO. Unbe-fucking-lievable.

The Dutch are out. Germany and Portugal will win against Denmark. We are out.

[Tifosi]

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/60781000/jpg/_60781453_photo.jpg

lol

[Tim Cornelis]

That was not necessary... if the germans slaughter the dutch Wednesday its all over...

Not necessarily. Let's say Portugal loses to Germany (behind 1-0, ten minutes left), and they win to Denmark. They will have three points. If the Netherlands wins the third match against Portugal, then group B may look as follows:

1. Germany - 9
2. The Netherlands - 3
3. Portugal - 3
4. Denmark - 3

It then depends on goal scoring ratio.

[Manic Impressive]

Portugal could end up the whipping boys of this group. I was expecting this to be an exciting day of football but I've barely been able to stay awake -_-

[Qavvik]

.

[NoPasaran1936]

Hodgson is a terrible choice.

The type of football he played with Liverpool is completely out of fashion, plus it needs creative players in the midfield, which England simply don't have. As much as I dislike wrinkly old 'Arry Redknapp, he would be far better for England.

As for the hype around the team, we all know how that went every time when there was a hype - check last World Cup.

P.S.

I never support Serbia, even if they qualified.

But after the incident when that idiot Mihajlović removed a Muslim player from the national team because he wouldn't sing the national anthem - I'd be over the moon every time they lose.
Oh for fuck sake, sick of hearing Redknapp was the better choice. Can someone please tell me what the fuck has Redknapp actually achieved? Fuck all.

Hodgson on the other hand has actually had experience at this level, managing multiple international teams, so IMO. The better choice. Redknapp failed to get Tottenham into the Champions League, not a chance would he be any good.

And what hype? There's been virtually no hype for England this time round, so could you please refer me to the so called 'hype'. Living in England, I thought I'd see it, but I haven't so please point me to the hype. If anything there's cynicism and defeatist talk.


I'll support England, but I don't think we'll get through group stages, but I wanna see Oxlade-Chamberlain in action. 18 years old he is, and he has such a bright future ahead of him in terms of football. Also looking forward to Young and Welbeck getting some run in, those two always impress me. Not failing to mention Walcott either. What England needs is a Geordie lad like Gascoigne, now he was something special.

For winning, Germany tonight looked solid. Germany v Russia would be a good game, Russia bullied Czech Republic last night and scored some absolute screamers.


Portugal could end up the whipping boys of this group. I was expecting this to be an exciting day of football but I've barely been able to stay awake -_-

Germany tore them a new one. But this is what I like about international football, take these superb players away from the teams they train with all the time and slap them with people they barely know and bam. Football can become unpredictable.

[Regicollis]

OMFG... we beat the Dutch - but we're usually a half-shitty team...

Although we'll probably get our asses kicked by Germany and Portugal I guess the sports commentators will probably see this victory as a sign that we'll win the whole thing and masturbate to the memories of EURO1992 which we surprisingly won. Nationalism is really stupid.

[Luc]

OMFG... we beat the Dutch - but we're usually a half-shitty team...

Although we'll probably get our asses kicked by Germany and Portugal I guess the sports commentators will probably see this victory as a sign that we'll win the whole thing and masturbate to the memories of EURO1992 which we surprisingly won. Nationalism is really stupid.

you shouldnt worry

it was only luck ;)

[pastradamus]

IRELAND - already been to the bookies - with you there Pastradamas - and I won on the national this year...

Haha. What odds did you get on them?
Thats a SERIOUS longshot. Did you win a bet on the Grand National? If so fair play to ya. Thats harder to call then the Euro's. There's like 40 horses in that race.

[pastradamus]

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/60781000/jpg/_60781453_photo.jpg

lol

Where did you get that? I've been looking for that picture everywhere!

There's a guy here where I live selling T-shirts with the flag and that written on it but thats the original photo.

[Tim Cornelis]

Where did you get that? I've been looking for that picture everywhere!

There's a guy here where I live selling T-shirts with the flag and that written on it but thats the original photo.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-18371142

[Tifosi]

Dutch go down to the water-front to drown their sorrows... Can't escape lol

http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii637/sussexblue/AvBxgxFCMAEsuLs.jpg

[Tim Cornelis]

Dutch go down to the water-front to drown their sorrows... Can't escape lol

http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii637/sussexblue/AvBxgxFCMAEsuLs.jpg

Trololololol. Haha.

EDIT:

Fake,

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/de/German-Dutch_rivalry.jpg

[Bronco]

Oh dear Ireland, they've been dreadful

[Metacomet]

Oh dear Ireland, they've been dreadful
Devastating.

They've been good recently too, that's what makes it worse.

[Bandito]

Oh dear Ireland, they've been dreadful

Yeah, but the Croats played like Barcelona yesterday.

First game at the Euros that I actually enjoyed watching, even though after the Auschwitz incident I was hoping that the Oirish will rip them a new one.

[Bronco]

I'm pleased for Ukraine and Shevchenko, can't see them getting through based on that performance but it's nice for them to have got a win. Good point for England earlier too

[Niall]

england seem to have adopted the chelsea gameplan

[Thirsty Crow]

Yeah, but the Croats played like Barcelona yesterday.

First game at the Euros that I actually enjoyed watching, even though after the Auschwitz incident I was hoping that the Oirish will rip them a new one.
There's still time. Spain needs a good and solid win :D

[NoPasaran1936]

england seem to have adopted the chelsea gameplan

To be fair, when France attacked, they looked deadly. It was a good strategy, however, we could have counter-attacked better. I enjoyed the game, Milner should have scored, but I'd take a draw.

Ukraine played bloody well, I want them to beat France because they then pretty much secure their qualification for the knock-out stages. And just hoping Ukraine beating Sweden will have knocked them and caused a drop in confidence so England could have a hit-and-run raid and win by 1-0. So England and Ukraine to go through.

Chances are, England will most likely play Spain or Italy. Either one will be difficult as hell.

Ireland IMO didn't look too into that game, didn't look at all like they were contenders after the 2nd half. However, you don't see much action in opening games, so hopefully Ireland will step it up and give something to the incredible amount of fans who travelled all that way. Hearing them chant was great, and no reports of trouble (all coming from Russian fans)

My favourite game so far has been Spain v Italy, some good football being played and neither team wanted to sit deep and just fiddle about in the midfield. Iniesta once against requiring atleast half the opposition's squad to stop him haha!

Going to be an interesting tournament, exciting too. I have a sneaky feeling Ukraine, Russia, Spain and possibly Italy could make it to the semis.

[NoPasaran1936]

Dutch go down to the water-front to drown their sorrows... Can't escape lol

http://i1263.photobucket.com/albums/ii637/sussexblue/AvBxgxFCMAEsuLs.jpg


That's during 2008 EUROS.

[Andropov]

Ireland are brutal to watch, but its nothing new, that has been Trapattonis game plan from day one.
The only shame is that Ireland have some decent footballers that can play ball, Fahy, Mc Carthy, Hoolahan, Mc Clean, Coleman, Ireland etc, but none of them fit into Trapattonis game plan and so cant get a game.

[Metacomet]

My poor Greeks :D

(I want them to do well because i am sick of the media "Greece ruined the world economy because they be lazy etc etc etc")

[DDR]

My poor Greeks :D

(I want them to do well because i am sick of the media "Greece ruined the world economy because they be lazy etc etc etc")

Then go with anyone else, football is the new opium of the masses, and because of that most of us don't support our national teams.

[Metacomet]

Then go with anyone else, football is the new opium of the masses, and because of that most of us don't support our national teams.

And as a Celtic fan they are the only team with a Celtic player in the tourney. As much as I dislike his game.

[Tim Cornelis]

One fan is said to have died in clashes between Russian and Polish fans:

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/351367/20120612/ruaaia-poland-violence-supporters-warsaw-euro-2012.htm

Either cancel the entire tournament or suspend Poland, and perhaps Russia if true.

EDIT:

Doesn't appear to be true, RT seems to have no coverage of this.

[SHORAS]

As long as we (England) crock and get sent off loads of opposition players I don't care. It's happened to us for tournament after tournament and about time we dished it out. Seeing as we have no chance of winning the tournament we might as well be bitter bastards.

[Niall]

And as a Celtic fan they are the only team with a Celtic player in the tourney. As much as I dislike his game.

Lustiq played for sweden the other evening, hes a celtic player

[Bandito]

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/550996_408210439217670_1469915142_n.jpg

[Tifosi]

And as a Celtic fan they are the only team with a Celtic player in the tourney. As much as I dislike his game.

Paweł Brożek played a minute or so for Poland last night:D

[Metacomet]

Didn't even realize Brozek was on Poland's squad. Haven't seen them play.

Forgot about Lustig as well :-/

I liked Sweden's play. I don't think they will advance though.

[Andropov]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqknZK7rC7M
The lad at 1.20 and the lad at 1.55.

[Bandito]

The Dutch tonight in a do-or-die game.

[Tim Cornelis]

NOOOOO. Portugal must win. If Denmark and Portugal draw, then Denmark has 4 points, and the Dutch need to win both to Portugal and Germany!!!

Holy shit. No. Portugal score.

------
EDIT: THE very SECOND I clicked THEY SCORED.

Thank God!

EDIT II:

Additionally, a good goal scoring ratio in this match, only +1 for Portugal. Minus 1, is zero. The Dutch team can still advance...

[Sasha]

Oh dear, that's not going well, opening looked hopeful but I doubt the dutch can come back from 2 behind anymore...

[Tim Cornelis]

What an atrocious display. They were slow, no assertiveness, no initiative, clumsy, the forwards were isolated. At least we very much deserved to lose.

[F9]

lol netherlands out of euro, but most importantly... WTF cristiano?WTF?!?!:laugh: cristiano's missed chance and balotellis "walk in the park" most amusing moments so far(and the fan guy celebrated todays hollands goal):laugh:

[Luc]

Whyyyyyyy????? Netherlands whyyyy????!!!!!!!:crying::crying::crying::crying:

i hope Gomez has an "accident" :glare:

[Bandito]

Mario Gomez is quality.

I never saw a player after Van Basten with such a calmness when it comes to one-on-one situations.

[Niall]

Paweł Brożek played a minute or so for Poland last night:D

pretty sure his loan deal is up anyhow

[Tim Cornelis]

Mario Gomez is quality.

I never saw a player after Van Basten with such a calmness when it comes to one-on-one situations.

The fact that Dutch defence stood there like traffic cones might have helped to shape that image.


lol netherlands out of euro

Not yet. We are going to win 2 - 0 against Portugal. Denmark is going to lose 0 - 2 against Germany, and we will advance to the quarter finals.

[F9]

Not yet. We are going to win 2 - 0 against Portugal. Denmark is going to lose 0 - 2 against Germany, and we will advance to the quarter finals.

And i am going to be elected president of the United States...:D I am not saying that this results are unlikely to happen based on team strengths actually are pretty possible, i dont think will happen though due to teams psychology!
Football its not just a simple game(and its also many other things beside weapon of the revolution;))

[DDR]

Can someone from England explain to me WTF is this about?

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/poll/2012/jun/14/euro-2012-poll-england-band?CMP=twt_gu

[Bronco]

Can someone from England explain to me WTF is this about?

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/poll/2012/jun/14/euro-2012-poll-england-band?CMP=twt_gu

Haha they're just a group of fans who go to all the England games playing their instruments, they had them taken of them at the France game but are gonna be allowed them again for the Sweden match tomorrow

[bricolage]

they are singularly the most annoying people to ever set foot inside a football stadium.

[pastradamus]

Very disappointed by the way Holland fell apart.

[bricolage]

good games this, croatian fans pretty impressive too.

[Metacomet]

Alright so Netherlands and Ireland are basically out. Same with Greece likely.


Go Sweden? I guess. Maybe. Sorta. Or go whoever doesn't play boring.

[pastradamus]

Well there goes that.....bollox anyway!

We wouldn't score in a brothel if we had a golden dick.

[bricolage]

I imagine ireland will be very disappointed with that, even against the world champions that was some very bad defending. liked the ten minute rendition of fields of athenry though. hard to tell who will go through out of the other three.

my controversial bet of the day is netherlands to still go through in second place.

[Metacomet]

Great fans. Poor play. I guess qualifying was a bit of an achievement in and of itself.

"what ifs" don't matter but a different group and a good start might have made a big difference.

[MotherCossack]

bejesus !!!!!! begorrah!!!!!!!!
that was painful!!!!!!!
at the risk of tearing the arse out of it.......I'd say.....
we were a load of old shite...
like worms in a ballet....
or....a pineapple juggling balloons....or
a staircase made of jelly....
not fit for purpose !
250000 loyal supporters...... at least they did well.....
me..... i cried......

[MotherCossack]

england tomorrow..........
cant wait.......we'll hit them with the garden gate

[pastradamus]

I imagine ireland will be very disappointed with that, even against the world champions that was some very bad defending. liked the ten minute rendition of fields of athenry though. hard to tell who will go through out of the other three.

my controversial bet of the day is netherlands to still go through in second place.

Yeah man that was pretty awful and depressing to watch. We just dont have the quality to deal with the group we were given. End of. I'll see your bet on the Netherlands. They could still do it yet.

[pastradamus]

bejesus !!!!!! begorrah!!!!!!!!
that was painful!!!!!!!
at the risk of tearing the arse out of it.......I'd say.....
we were a load of old shite...
like worms in a ballet....
or....a pineapple juggling balloons....or
a staircase made of jelly....
not fit for purpose !
250000 loyal supporters...... at least they did well.....
me..... i cried......

WTF are you talking about?

[pastradamus]

Great fans. Poor play. I guess qualifying was a bit of an achievement in and of itself.

"what ifs" don't matter but a different group and a good start might have made a big difference.

Yeah, I mean in many ways its harder than the world cup. Getting out of the group is the toughest part of it. In a world cup scenario 4 points and you're usually ok but even the likes of Spain (who have 4 points) still need more points to secure qualification.

[Bronco]

Yeah, I mean in many ways its harder than the world cup. Getting out of the group is the toughest part of it. In a world cup scenario 4 points and you're usually ok but even the likes of Spain (who have 4 points) still need more points to secure qualification.

Eh it depends I think, like yeah in Ireland's group Italy or Croatia might get 5 points and not even qualify but then Holland may well do it with 3

[Tim Cornelis]

Ireland, at least, has the best fans.

[pastradamus]

Eh it depends I think, like yeah in Ireland's group Italy or Croatia might get 5 points and not even qualify but then Holland may well do it with 3

That group is a red herring. Our is the group of "debt", theirs is the group of "death". 4 Tough teams there. Ireland seem to be the whipping boys of our group. Nevertheless i'll still be cheering them on against Italy. Provided Trappatoni wakes the fuck up a little.

[Ocean Seal]

No surpirses there, the whole of the organization is teeming with vermin. But still, this is foul even for such a merry bunch.
Hope they get their assess kicked, scum.
Is it just the team manager/whoever leads them or is it the players too?

[Ocean Seal]

Wow this is the guy Marković who asked the team to visit the victims of communism and forego Auschwitz.

Also this guys Dad was Ustase.

In November 2010, Marković spoke out against gay footballers, telling both the Croatian Večernji list and the Serbian Večernje novosti that, "As long as I'm president [of the Croatian football federation] there will be no gay players. Thank goodness only healthy people play football."[7] He has been reported for the comment to UEFA. In July 2011 he had to pay 10.000 Euro to UEFA, because of his words against gay footballers.[8]

[Metacomet]

Yeah, I mean in many ways its harder than the world cup. Getting out of the group is the toughest part of it. In a world cup scenario 4 points and you're usually ok but even the likes of Spain (who have 4 points) still need more points to secure qualification.

And the world Cup groups you can get Asian/North American filler. Not that those games are necessarily easy, but Bahrain or Costa Rica is easier then Spain and Italy.

[brigadista]

well upset over ireland - the lesson i have learned is to stick to betting on the horses- :(

[Conflict]

Ireland, at least, has the best fans.
Not according to Roy Keane. :(

[Conflict]

Luckily, England just scraped through against Sweden.:)

[RedAnarchist]

How the HELL did we do that? How the fuck? The first time we've ever beaten Sweden in a competitive match! I'm no patriot, but fucking hell, we've knocked a team out! Of course the Liverpool boys were there to actually make the England team actually play, but we were lucky. Very, very lucky!

[Bronco]

Quality game, ok so we might just have scraped a win against a pretty poor Swedish side but bring on the Spaniards, the blind optimism returns

[Metacomet]

Oh god. I hope England doesn't go far. Even in the U.S we have to listen to it. The coronation of our true champions. Please lose.

EDIT-I really don't like Sweden in yellow, but love the blue with a yellow stripe. Weird?

[Thirsty Crow]

What actually happened when Walcott scored?? :confused:
That has to be one of the worst goalkeeper blunders I've seen in a while. It was weird how Isaksson lost his balance.

[brigadista]

regardless of the quality of the football-

when england are playing i have to turn the commentary off -

if they win the tournament it will be like the falklands/jubilee/all over again :(:(

[RedAnarchist]

regardless of the quality of the football-

when england are playing i have to turn the commentary off -

if they win the tournament it will be like the falklands/jubilee/all over again :(:(

I don't think England will get even close to another final for quite a few decades at the very least.

[Conflict]

The Czechs and Greece are through!

[RedAnarchist]

I would like to see Ireland do well, but I don't see them getting out of their group. I see Spain and Germany being two of the semi-finalists.

Here's what I think will happen -

Group A winners - Czech Republic
Group A runners-up - Greece

Group B winners - Germany
Group B runners-up - this one is very hard to call, but I think the Netherlands will get second

Group C winners - Spain
Group C runners-up - Italy (although like B I could see anyone qualifying from the group)

Group D winners - Sweden
Group D runners-up - England (but only just)

Czech Republic vs Netherlands - Netherlands win
Spain vs England - Spain win
Germany vs Greece - Germany win
Italy vs Sweden - Italy

Netherlands vs Spain - Spain win
Germany vs Italy - Germany win

Spain vs Germany - I think this will be a very close one, but I think Spain can retain their title

I have the urge to bump this pot of mine up. Of course, I've completely gotten it wrong in Group D, as Sweden are out.

[Bronco]

The worst two teams in the group get through, can't believe Greece have qualified

[Kornilios Sunshine]

Greece won Russia! Fuck YEAH!!

[Kornilios Sunshine]

The worst two teams in the group get through, can't believe Greece have qualified
I agree Greece played quite awful, it was just the opportunity that gave them the goal.

[Tim Cornelis]

The worst two teams in the group get through, can't believe Greece have qualified

Worst team in the entire tournament*

[Thirsty Crow]

Worst team in the entire tournament*
Absolutely. It's unbelievable how they managed to beat Russia. I even thought Russia had the chance to advance all the way to the semi-final.

[Manic Impressive]

Goal difference should be the primary system for determining who goes through, The way it is at the moment it promotes boring defensive football. If it had been decided on goal difference Greece would have needed one more goal to go through which would have made a much more interesting game.

I'm happy for Greece though even though Russia play more exciting football

[pastradamus]

Not according to Roy Keane. :(

As a Cork man (Roy keane grew up less than a mile from me)...I can honestly say that the man is an egotistical prick. We're growing sick of defending him down here. We all wanted our lads to win and then he starts attacking the fans when we didnt...why? Because he had beef in the past with the Irish FA. Not fair on the fans in my opinion , who put up a show that should win them "best fans of Euro 2012"...hands down. Roy Keane is nothing more than a cynic and was well out of place with his comments.

[pastradamus]

I have the urge to bump this pot of mine up. Of course, I've completely gotten it wrong in Group D, as Sweden are out.

I remember correcting that earlier. You got Irish blood sir and there's a good game monday. ;)

[F9]

the fuck with this year euro......:rolleyes:

[Manic Impressive]

As a Cork man (Roy keane grew up less than a mile from me)...I can honestly say that the man is an egotistical prick. We're growing sick of defending him down here. We all wanted our lads to win and then he starts attacking the fans when we didnt...why? Because he had beef in the past with the Irish FA. Not fair on the fans in my opinion , who put up a show that should win them "best fans of Euro 2012"...hands down. Roy Keane is nothing more than a cynic and was well out of place with his comments.
what did he say? I know what I saw him say and all that was, was that all the talk about how great the fans were is no compensation for playing badly and under performing.

I agree he is an egotistical prick, I've never liked Keane but what I thought he said was right, a bit arbitrary perhaps but still correct. Unless I've missed something.

[RedAnarchist]

Group B winners - Germany
Group B runners-up - this one is very hard to call, but I think the Netherlands will get second

From the BBC -

Group B
Position Team Played Goal Difference Points

1 Germany 2 2 6
2 Portugal 2 0 3
3 Denmark 2 0 3
4 Netherlands 2 -2 0

Well, I think Germany are likely to win their group, and will probably win by a small margin tonight, something like 2-1 or 1-0.

As for the runner up, I think the Netherlands and Portugal will probably be a score draw, something like 2-2, giving the runners up spot to Portugal. Obviously, anything but a win for the Dutch will knock them out of the tournament, but I don't think they'll get that win and they'll be going home.

[Bandito]

the fuck with this year euro......:rolleyes:

By far the best Euro I remember.

[bricolage]

andrian chiles makes a nice reference to the 'russian hordes' heading home...:rolleyes:

[Sasha]

Best most exciting dutch match so far, shame it will probably all be in vain...

[bricolage]

this is a good match, both teams over-committing so i'm expecting a bunch more goals.

[RedAnarchist]

Germany and Portugal through, Denmark and the Netherlands out. Denmark have done well, twenty years after they won the 1992 European Championships in Sweden (and they were only there because the civil war in Yugoslavia meant that that country did not take part. In fact, they had only a week to prepare). The Netherlands have massively underachieved in this tournament.

So far, the knockouts look like this -

Czech Republic versus Portugal (I predicted Czechia versus Netherlands, and for the Dutch to win. I think Portugal will win this one).
Germany versus Greece (I predicted this fixture, and for Germany to win).

[Tim Cornelis]

http://fail.brm.sk/disappoint/wtf_is_this_shit.jpg

Netherlands - Denmark. First 20 minutes were good. Last 80 minutes were not good enough.
Netherlands - Germany. First 20 minutes were good. Last 80 minutes were not.
Netherlands - Portugal. First 20 minutes were good. Last 80 minutes were not.

[RedAnarchist]

Group C winners - Spain
Group C runners-up - Italy (although like B I could see anyone qualifying from the group)

Current table -

Position Team Played Goal Difference Points

1 Spain 2 4 4
2 Croatia 2 2 4
3 Italy 2 0 2
4 R. of Ireland 2 -6 0

I think Spain will beat Croatia to win the group, probably going to be 2-0. As for Italy versus Ireland, I would hope that Ireland could take at least one victory from the group, but I don't see it happening, 3-1 to Italy to get the runners up spot.

[RedAnarchist]

Group C winners - Spain
Group C runners-up - Italy (although like B I could see anyone qualifying from the group)

Spain are winners of Group C, with Italy runners up. I'm predicting that France will win Group D, meaning that they play Italy, and England will be runners up, meaning that they play Spain.

So far, the knockouts look like this -

Czech Republic versus Portugal (I predicted Czechia versus Netherlands, and for the Dutch to win. I think Portugal will win this one).
Germany versus Greece (I predicted this fixture, and for Germany to win).
Spain versus France/England/Ukraine (I'm predicting England, and for Spain to win).
Italy versus France/England/Ukraine (I'm predicting France, and I think this one will be close, with France perhaps just managing to slip past Italy).

[Thirsty Crow]

After all I said about the Croatian national team, I must admit I think it's a shame that they didn't advance since they've displayed much better football than people could have expected judging by their performance in the qualifying tournament. The match with Spain merely reinforces this impression. The defence was impressive, and even more considering the fact that a player who doesn't play the central back played on that position (as well as the fact that a substitute central back managed to play almost without flaw).

They were a bit short on the offense, though people won't forget one specific chance soon. Too bad Casillas didn't retire yet haha.


Spain are winners of Group C, with Italy runners up. I'm predicting that France will win Group D, meaning that they play Italy, and England will be runners up, meaning that they play Spain.

Actually, I'd like to see that match. I thin England has a very solid shot at Spain who didn't impress at all in this firs round. Actually, alongside Netherlands and Russia vs. Greece, they've been somewhat of a dissapointment although they did advance.

My prediction re: semis - England, France, Portugal, Germany, or - England, Spain, Portugal, Germany. I can't see Czech Republic or Greece going through, and I have some doubts re France vs Italy (depending on the group first place of course), but that would be it.

[pastradamus]

3 of out 3 gentlemen. Ireland, job done. NOW WAKE THE FUCK UP TRAPPATONI AND SORT OUT WC QUALIFING FOR US!

[RedAnarchist]

I think England will manage a win tonight, I'm predicting 2-1. As for France, who I think will top the table, I think they'll win 2-0.

[Bandito]

I hope France don't fuck it up, they are my favorite team so far.

As for the Croats, damn shame. I always hated Italy, and they did it again - progressed without any real result in the group stages. Croatia, on the other hand, displayed magical football in the tournament, Modric is definitely ready to step up in Barcelona, and Mandzukic is a revelation. Not to mention that they are the only team in years to take control of the midfield when playing against the Spaniards.

[RedAnarchist]

Spain are winners of Group C, with Italy runners up. I'm predicting that France will win Group D, meaning that they play Italy, and England will be runners up, meaning that they play Spain.

So far, the knockouts look like this -

Czech Republic versus Portugal (I predicted Czechia versus Netherlands, and for the Dutch to win. I think Portugal will win this one).
Germany versus Greece (I predicted this fixture, and for Germany to win).
Spain versus France/England/Ukraine (I'm predicting England, and for Spain to win).
Italy versus France/England/Ukraine (I'm predicting France, and I think this one will be close, with France perhaps just managing to slip past Italy).

Nicely played by Sweden to get a win in their last match, and England did well, but were lucky, to get the winners spot. The disallowed Ukraine goal was fully over the line, but allegedly it was offside. The officials messed up here, and I don't think we'll see goal line technology until Switzerland get a legitimate goal disallowed.

So, the quater-finals are -

Czech Republic versus Portugal (I think Portugal will win)
Germany versus Greece (I think Germany will win)
Italy versus England (I think England can win this one)
Spain versus France (Spain to win this one)

The semi-finals could produce some very interesting matches -

Czech Republic/Portugal versus Spain/France (my prediction would see Portugal play Spain).
Germany/Greece versus England/Italy (my prediction would see Germany play England).

[MotherCossack]

england are total shite.
they play like paint dries .... or like the most boring p.e. lesson which goes on and on and on.
why are they so ordinary?
they are never even an 11th as good as the sum of their parts!

shoulda picked harry Rednap the tricksy, dumb, crooked geaser......
at least he has the savvy to tell it straight regarding his team;
"It was an hard game... yeah!... but... yeah.... Oh we was rubbish.... yeah.... we had a terrible game!.... yeah... no doubt 'bout that.... John!"

I like him.

[Bronco]

In Roy we trust

[Manic Impressive]

I think Spain would have been the better match for England. Their style of play will suit England better than the Italians. Think Barcelona V Chelsea. Whereas England Italy is going to be the most boring defensive game ever. Likely to go to extra time and penalties. Di Natale is imo very dangerous. Whereas Spain playing with no striker are easier to defend against, the Italy v Spain match shows us this. I also thought Croatia were unlucky not to beat Spain.

[pastradamus]

Agreed, Italy and England might be a chess game. Though the Italians are prone to moving their full backs too far up the pitch. Thats Ashley Young territory. Ukraine unlucky tonight not to get a draw, they were the better team over 90 mins but that English defense is something else.

[Bandito]

I believe Frenchies can win against Spain.

Play Cabaye and M'Vila both to spoil their midfield game, Malouda instead of Ben Arfa and Giroud instead of useless Benzema, that's what I'd to if I was Blanc.

[RedAnarchist]

"Joseph S Blatter ‏@SeppBlatter
After last night’s match #GLT is no longer an alternative but a necessity."

That's an actual tweet from Blatter himself. I would have thought it would take Switzerland being denied a goal for him to change his mind.

[bricolage]

goal line technology will be the death of the game.
we'll lose excitement, lose the thrill and get boring, mechanised, stop-start football.
sometimes decisions go your way, sometimes they don't, it's part of the fun.

[RedAnarchist]

I agree, I don't think football is the kind of sport that can benefit that much from GLT.

[Bronco]

Last night showed the issue with goal line technology, ok so you review it and you see the ball crossed the line so overturn the decision and give a goal, but then there was on offside leading up to it, so do you then have to bring in video technology for offside decisions as well?


"Joseph S Blatter ‏@SeppBlatter
After last night’s match #GLT is no longer an alternative but a necessity."

That's an actual tweet from Blatter himself. I would have thought it would take Switzerland being denied a goal for him to change his mind.

Blatter's been in favour of it for a while now

[Manic Impressive]

I can't disagree with you more bricolage. It's not a problem in tennis or rugby. Football already has stupid rules that slow the game down far more than the rare occurrence when they would have to use goal line technology. Like if a player needs treatment they have to go off the pitch before they can carry on, in most cases it's completely unnecessary, wastes loads of time. In rugby for instance when there's a disputed try which happens much more than a disputed goal in football would it's a moment of excitement for the spectators, I see no reason the same wouldn't be true of a football match. But unfortunately video replays aren't even on the table. There's that technology which sends an instant message to the referees watch it's not going to take any time at all and it's going to cut down on a load of players surrounding the referee trying to convince him. That's a waste of time.

Personally I'd extend technology to many parts of the game, penalties, straight red cards stuff like that.

[PhoenixAsh]

Dutch team will never make it past the first round, portugal and germany will butcher them.

Hehehe....yeah they did! :D :D

I was probably the only one enjoying this in my street...especially because the neighbors spend soooo much money on orange decorations :D

[Thirsty Crow]

I agree, I don't think football is the kind of sport that can benefit that much from GLT.
Say that to Ukranians :D

The mistake was inexplicable in my opinion, and moreover it ruined the match when Ukraine would be in a good position to chase the second goal and possibily to advance.

[bricolage]

I can't disagree with you more bricolage. It's not a problem in tennis or rugby. Football already has stupid rules that slow the game down far more than the rare occurrence when they would have to use goal line technology. Like if a player needs treatment they have to go off the pitch before they can carry on, in most cases it's completely unnecessary, wastes loads of time.
true but I'm not defending those rules. it doesn't have to be a mutually exclusive thing.


In rugby for instance when there's a disputed try which happens much more than a disputed goal in football would it's a moment of excitement for the spectators, I see no reason the same wouldn't be true of a football match.
well I've watched a fair bit of rugby and I find that bit unbelievably boring and seems to go on for ages.

I've watched my team get screwed over by bad decisions countless times and it sucks but I firmly believe it's part of the excitement. the crowd reactions, the chants at the ref, the collective form of injustice you can foster amongst yourselves, you don't get any of this shit at the over-sanitised international level but in some bits of club football it's still there. I remember reading some study that fans get a sort of peverse joy out of being screwed over, dunno about it and I'm not sure it's really a good point to back up any argument but I reckon there probably is something there. maybe it would be lots fairer if there was technology and probably I look at things all the wrong way round, but it would be a lot less excitement. maybe there's a reason tennis and rugby crowds are so dull...

on what be seen as a more serious point I think the introduction of further technologies to the professional level drives a wedge in what is one of the best features of football, that it can replicated on the street, park or similar level. sure you would still be able to play a kick about without needing 6 officials but I think there is something to be said for that fact that increasing differentiations between what is 'proper' football and what is not affect negatively on the game being replicated and generalised.

EDIT: I do realise that most of what I saw about fairness and excitement could be seen as unbelievably selfish and contrary to 'the game' but hey I can't help how I feel!

[bricolage]

Say that to Ukranians :D

The mistake was inexplicable in my opinion, and moreover it ruined the match when Ukraine would be in a good position to chase the second goal and possibily to advance.
the goal was offside. ironically this means if there had been goal line technology an unfair goal would have been credited!

[Thirsty Crow]

the goal was offside. ironically this means if there had been goal line technology an unfair goal would have been credited!
Really? I didn't notice that. Yeah, would have been ironic :D

[Bandito]

Is it me or has the level of diving and rolling on the grass "injured" really got ridiculous? I mean, every contact means about 2 minutes rolling on the floor, followed by a miraculous recovery.

I understand that it's a way of putting pressure on the referee for his future calls in the game, but come on. It's seriously getting on my tits, and I believe everyone feels the same.

Is there a successful mechanism against it though? I don't see one. Showing yellow cards for simulating injuries would be heavily arbitrary, not to mention the possibility that a really injured player would be sometimes reprimanded.

I remember when I was playing football back in the days - I seriously don't remember a single tackle on me that I wasn't able to get up immediately. There were brutal collisions sometimes, but never something that would cause serious injury.

[Tim Cornelis]

Oh yeah, this thing is still going on.

[pastradamus]

"Joseph S Blatter ‏@SeppBlatter
After last night’s match #GLT is no longer an alternative but a necessity."

That's an actual tweet from Blatter himself. I would have thought it would take Switzerland being denied a goal for him to change his mind.

Saw that alright. Thanks Sepp, we all know you're probably the biggest wanker in world football but it made me happy to see you changed your mind on that. It was only two years too late but cheers.

[pastradamus]

the goal was offside. ironically this means if there had been goal line technology an unfair goal would have been credited!

No it wouldn't. The technology they are using in Cricket and Rugby "hawkeye" is what is being investigated for football. The GLT reserch group in Switzerland have borrowed much from this technology which includes offside as a feature. I know all this because they described it in an Irish newspaper around the time of the Henry handball incident basically saying "we would have picked it up".

The only thing is im against when it comes to GLT is that I wouldnt want an over-reliance on it and also I wouldnt want it to be as slow as that in Rugby where there is a touch judge going over all the angles for 5 minutes and then calling a score off the basis of that.

[RedAnarchist]

I think this game will probably go to penalties.

[RedAnarchist]

Or maybe not.

[RedAnarchist]

The Portuguese will play the winners of Spain versus France, so if Spain win, it'll be an all-Iberian semi-final.

[Bandito]

That had to be the dullest game ever.

[RedAnarchist]

The Germans will be playing whoever wins between England and Italy. I think England can beat Italy, but I think they'll be beaten by Germany. I think the Spain-Germany final I predicted is bound to happen, but I don't think Spain will beat this German team.

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Hehehe....yeah they did! :D :D

I was probably the only one enjoying this in my street...especially because the neighbors spend soooo much money on orange decorations :D

Yeah, I really had a good time too, when I saw my neighbors tearing down the orange shit.

[Ocean Seal]

Greeks lost which is a shame, it would have been cool for them to beat the Germans with the whole austerity thing going on. There could have been a lot of jokes about Merkel making a bet and the Greeks not having to pay the debt after winning. Anyway would have been cool.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

the goal was offside. ironically this means if there had been goal line technology an unfair goal would have been credited!

This is one of the problems with Goal line technology. It doesn't take into account the essential fatalism of football - the fact (FACT!) that every single thing that happens on the pitch directly affects everything else that happens afterwards. Your defender made a great tackle in the 47th minute, but you went on to lose 2-1 in injury time? Then that tackle led to that Goal. Everything affects the flow of play.

Your team got a dodgy throw in awarded to them in the 63rd minute, but went on to lose 2-0? Then that decision led to you losing the match.

The point is that every decision is as important as every other, irrespective of where it occured. The fact that the Ukrainian guy (can't remember his name, sorry) was offside is proof that Goal line technology is flawed. The goal was rightfully not allowed, but for the wrong reasons. And maybe, just maybe, the offside decision would have led to Ukraine winning 2-1... hmmmmm?

[Thirsty Crow]

This is one of the problems with Goal line technology. It doesn't take into account the essential fatalism of football - the fact (FACT!) that every single thing that happens on the pitch directly affects everything else that happens afterwards. Your defender made a great tackle in the 47th minute, but you went on to lose 2-1 in injury time? Then that tackle led to that Goal. Everything affects the flow of play.

Your team got a dodgy throw in awarded to them in the 63rd minute, but went on to lose 2-0? Then that decision led to you losing the match.

The point is that every decision is as important as every other, irrespective of where it occured. The fact that the Ukrainian guy (can't remember his name, sorry) was offside is proof that Goal line technology is flawed. The goal was rightfully not allowed, but for the wrong reasons. And maybe, just maybe, the offside decision would have led to Ukraine winning 2-1... hmmmmm?
That's some flawed logic right here.
There's no way to conclude that everything that happens on the pitch directly (sic!) affects everything else. I'd like to see an explanation of that dodgy throw leading (which implies a kind of a causal relation) to the team losing (you could make a rather weak case for that throw causing an opponent's goal if it happened that it took place immediately as a esult of lost possession or something like that). But your examples and whole reasoning is flawed. Sure, we could conclude that it might ne that the referee ate the wrong kind of food during that afternoon, ergo that lead to him failing to see the offside. Or maybe he was thinking about his beautiful wife. Or maybe or maybe or maybe and so on.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Before I reply, can you explain this:



(sic!)


I know what it means, I'd just like to know why you've used it? Grammar or spelling?




EDIT: Ah, got it! "effect", not "affect". However, it is correct to use it after the offending grammatical error, not before.


So, in response:



There's no way to conclude that everything that happens on the pitch directly (sic!) (SIC!) ;) affects everything else. I'd like to see an explanation of that dodgy throw leading (which implies a kind of a causal relation) to the team losing


Football, from the first minute to the last, is a collection of causal occurrences. You get a dodgy throw in, you may push your full back forward, leaving your defence exposed, get caught on the break, lose a goal. If the throw in had been correctly awarded, this may not happen.

A real life example:

1989, Premier league (then called the First Division) decider, 5 minutes to go. Liverpool are awarded a controversial free kick, which they waste and give back to Arsenal. 5 minutes later Arsenal get the goal that wins them the title. Had the free kick gone to Arsenal in the first place the set of circumstances that resulted in Lukic rolling it out to Richardson, knocking it long for Thomas, storming through the Liverpool defence to flick it over Grobelaar, would not have happened. The game would have taken a completely different turn. The ball would almost certainly have been in a different place. Maybe Arsenal would have got 2 more goals, instead of the one that gave them the title. Maybe Liverpool would have equalised. It's impossible to know. But it is fairly certain, Vegas odds, that the circumstances that led to Thomas's goal would not have occured in the way they did.

There is absolutely no rigidity to Football. Part of the beauty of it is that it is impossible to tell what might have happened if only your centre forward had spread the ball wide instead of playing it through the middle.

[NoPasaran1936]

Greece got hammered for literally every mistake. Their defence were truly atrocious, Germany literally bulldozed them.

Greece essentially did an England on the equaliser; become complacent and the Germans had none of it, and good riddance too. What a shame it would be to have Greece get as far as they could playing the way they did. I'm still perplexed as to how they got out of group stages, but as the saying goes 'Football is a funny game'.

On to another topic, is O.P still adamant that 'Arry was the better candidate, despite being sacked. Probably not, England played well in the first 2 games, Ukraine's offside goal had no effect. They still played shit, was hoping Ukraine would equalise legitimately to get their asses into gear. Italy next, which should be interesting.

Who'll get sent off, Balotelli, or Rooney? Balotelli is awesome, love his football. Perhaps though, we'll see his personality get in the way. My prediction for England v Italy 0-0 5-4 to Italy on penalties because us English just cannot score a penalty.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Whereas you're saying that what happens in the 47th minute does not effect what happens in the 89th... that the ball is somehow fated to be wherever it may be at that time. This is surely a more flawed theory than mine?

Also - yeah, the referees mood could easily dictate the outcome of the game.

Human, innit?!

[NoPasaran1936]

That's some flawed logic right here.
There's no way to conclude that everything that happens on the pitch directly (sic!) affects everything else. I'd like to see an explanation of that dodgy throw leading (which implies a kind of a causal relation) to the team losing (you could make a rather weak case for that throw causing an opponent's goal if it happened that it took place immediately as a esult of lost possession or something like that). But your examples and whole reasoning is flawed. Sure, we could conclude that it might ne that the referee ate the wrong kind of food during that afternoon, ergo that lead to him failing to see the offside. Or maybe he was thinking about his beautiful wife. Or maybe or maybe or maybe and so on.

Do you play competitive football?

If no, then to be honest fella, you don't really know what you're on about. Very small things can seriously change the flow and psychology of a team. For example, a dodgy pass can spur your team to press and cause another dodgy pass which in effect causes a lower level of confidence, which again goes on to effect their defence, attack and even keeper.

Psychology is an absolutely major aspect of football, teams often are taught to look for signs of any trouble in the opposition to exploit and punish via goals.

Understandably, it's hard to recognise minor things such as a miss-timed tackle having an effect on how a team responds. But if you're a a centre-back, and your full back has missed his tackle and that winger is blasting his way down the flanks, what do you do, do you stand him up, or do you fall back and mark your designated player....

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Greece got hammered for literally every mistake. Their defence were truly atrocious, Germany literally bulldozed them.

Greece essentially did an England on the equaliser; become complacent and the Germans had none of it, and good riddance too. What a shame it would be to have Greece get as far as they could playing the way they did. I'm still perplexed as to how they got out of group stages, but as the saying goes 'Football is a funny game'.

On to another topic, is O.P still adamant that 'Arry was the better candidate, despite being sacked. Probably not, England played well in the first 2 games, Ukraine's offside goal had no effect. They still played shit, was hoping Ukraine would equalise legitimately to get their asses into gear. Italy next, which should be interesting.

Who'll get sent off, Balotelli, or Rooney? Balotelli is awesome, love his football. Perhaps though, we'll see his personality get in the way. My prediction for England v Italy 0-0 5-4 to Italy on penalties because us English just cannot score a penalty.


Germany have been my tip for it all along. They've spent the last 7 years blooding their youngsters and this is the tournament it pays off. They've now made the Semi's in each of the last 4 tournaments. They're great to watch. I prefer them to Spain - the 'tiki-taki' stuff can be.... am I going to say it?... yep, I am: D-U-L-L to watch. Germany ATTACK!!! Love it.

Greece had one decent game against Russia. They should have gone out first round.

I also think England-Italy will be 0-0, but England will take it penalties. About time, isn't it?

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

'Arry would have captured the public imagination more, I think. In this respect it was probably a good move in selecting Hodgson rather than Redknapp. It already feels, to me, like we've had a good tournament - 2 wins against tricky opponents and a decent draw!? That's already better than any of our last three tournaments. The lacklustre win over Ecuador in '06, the....... ........ ........ in '08, the draws with Algeria and USA in '10.

Redknapp in charge would have whipped the press, and therefore the public, into a frenzy, with nothing less than a place in the Semi Finals as an acceptable achievement.

Italy are beatable, but even if we lose to them* the tournament will have been seen as a minor success - something to build on.

* - as long as it isnae a Germany 2010 style 4-1 tonking.

[NoPasaran1936]

I fucking love Spanish football, La Liga is great to watch, El-Clasico is just so good. Possession football is my type of football, maybe dull. But with possession, you dominate. It's the tactic my team incorporate. Play from the back, keep it down, pass as many times as possible to tire the other teams out and utilise the wings. Being right footed, I often switch with the left-winger and attack from inside and visa-versa for my team mate. Maybe be boring, but in a technical sense, it destroys teams who prefer hoofed ball.

Germany play a mixture, last night they passed and pressed all at the same time. Germany at the moment is at its peak, and certain they will win this tournament and rightly so. However, someone really does need to tell the manager and his assistant to stop wearing the same clothes, it's very weird.

In regards to us and penalties, don't bet on it. We'll probably lose. Italy's not much better to be fair, but this is England's national team, haha.

With 'Arry, I'm glad he didn't.
1) Done fuck all, he hasn't really won anything.
2) Media trying to dictate what's best for English football, the FA is made up of ex-players. They should be the ones to decide, not the media.
3) Hodgson seems like a real nice guy, he's very smart. Very analytical, also can't pronounce R's, which adds character.
4) 'Arry would have played the old guard, we need fresh new talent. Chamberlain wouldn't have been chosen. Welbeck and Young of course, but Chamberlain is something special, we're yet to see him at his best.

And I agree, if we can get to the Semis, that's something to be pleased about. It'll be the furthest we've got in the Euros I believe. (Can't include WC1990)

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Yeah the scramble for 'Arry, as if he is some kind of superboss, confused me. He won the Cup with Portsmouth, but aside from that he's done nothing that Alan Pardew hasnt done. And Pardew was a penalty kick away from winning the cup.

'Arry has got the twitch, though. It's equally the match of the Hodgson 'R', especially when things are going badly. I'd loved to have seen it during that first 15 minutes of the second half against Sweden.

[RedAnarchist]

Spain to play Portugal on Wednesday in the first semi-final. I predicted Spain to win and to go onto the final and win it, but I think Portugal have a very good chance.

[NoPasaran1936]

France weren't particularly up for it tonight.

Spain v Germany for the finals it looks like.

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

I just think to win 3 consecutive major tournaments will be a step to far for Spain. Germany are more robust, they look physically bigger than everyone else they play. And they play football too. I hope they do it, assuming England don't.

[NoPasaran1936]

I'd prefer Germany to win it, they'll deserve it. Honestly been the best team in the tournament so far.

I don't know if I'd want England to win it, judging other teams; like Germany. The way we've played hasn't given me the impression we totally want it. But of course, that judgement may end tomorrow evening..

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Quarter of an hour left. Italy pressurise. This is why they have the best of the play. England get the ball in their own half, there are 2 or 3 Italians on them immediately. Italy get the ball in their own half, they get to bring it out, to build an attack. It's all about pressure.

Everyone thinks that Spain, Barcelona, Manchester United win all the time because they're a good crop of Footballers, but it's their off the ball play that does it - they never stop running. That is why they win.

You could have the 11 best players in their position in the world, but if they don't work off the ball, you're not going to win anything.


EDIT:

Best team won. Fair enough.

[RedAnarchist]

Commence the media meltdown!

Of course, it was penalties. Always the penalties. I'm sure there's some sort of psychological thing affecting the England players when it comes to penalties.

I predict Germany beating Italy, I think they'll be too good for Italy.

[Tim Cornelis]

Forza Italia. Schade Deutschland.

I'll be damned if those Germans advance to the final.

[Magón]

Well I can't say I expected the Italy v. England game to be very spectacular.

But in the end: FUCK GERMANY! :cool:

[Bronco]

That'll teach us not to revert back to blind optimism and thinking we can win it again, just because we topped a group where we easily could have lost every game. We were outplayed and lucky to get to pens, it's a shame to be out but I suppose I didn't expect to get that far in the first place, sorta relieved I can just enjoy the rest of the tournament as a neutral now

Pirlo's penalty as well.. simply genius

[Manic Impressive]

I called it 0-0 extra time and penalties. I didn't even watch the game fell asleep listening to it on the radio :p was it as boring as I predicted?

all in all I don't think England disgraced themselves (I'm looking at you Nederlands) but just as everyone thought, nothing special. Out of the teams who are left I'd prolly go for a German win and I think I want them to win.

[RedAnarchist]

orta relieved I can just enjoy the rest of the tournament as a neutral now

Yes, plus the Liverpool players can have a rest before the pre-season friendlies kick off.

[Bronco]

Yes, plus the Liverpool players can have a rest before the pre-season friendlies kick off.

Yeah Henderson, Downing and Kelly must be exhausted after their contributions this tournament :p

[I.Drink.Your.Milkshake]

Commence the media meltdown!

Of course, it was penalties. Always the penalties. I'm sure there's some sort of psychological thing affecting the England players when it comes to penalties.


Absolutely. It's one of the favourite topics of the media as soon as we reach the knockout stages. I also think that Pirlo's penalty affected the players who took kicks after him. If I was an Italian it would have settled my nerves - a senior player showing such calm under such tense circumstances - whereas if I was an English player seeing how calm the opposition were might have unnerved me.

I think its interesting that after Pirlo's penalty, both England players missed and both Italians scored by going down the middle.

As NoParasan 1936 said earlier in the thread:


Very small things can seriously change the flow and psychology of a team.

Pirlo, man. Cool customer. :thumbup1:

I'm all about the Germans now, anyway.

Yours in defeat,

Ich.Getränk.Ihren.Milchschütteln

[Tim Cornelis]

http://dejimachan.org/b/src/134063275726.jpg

Does anyone know when this was?

[Vorchev]

I'm glad the Italians beat the English who were so boring.

There was a scare during PKs, but the goalie had lightning reflexes and made that diving save when the English shooter took too long to set up.

[RedAnarchist]

I see Spain winning this shootout.

[RedAnarchist]

I think Ronaldo's looking a bit upset there.

[Niall]

why didnt he take the first penalty?

[bricolage]

why didnt he take the first penalty?
I imagine he wanted the glory of scoring the winner.

[Tim Cornelis]

Forza Italia. So many chances, should be 4 - 0 by now.

[Per Levy]

hahahaha, i knew it, its always the same, germany gets lucky with its pre round and its first enemy in the finals but when germany gets a real enemy it looses happend always in the last 10 years or so. well at least i wont see so many german flags anymore.

[RedAnarchist]

Spain-Germany is off, then, and Portugal-Germany will be the third-place deciding match. I think Germany can win that one.

As for the final, I think Spain can win it, but I see it going to ET if not penalties.

[Per Levy]

I think Germany can win that one

they did allready win over portugal so it should be a given, but who knows and who cares, no one cares about third or fourth places in a footbal championship.

[bricolage]

is there a third place play off in this one? I was under the impression there wasn't and it was just the final left.

[RedAnarchist]

is there a third place play off in this one? I was under the impression there wasn't and it was just the final left.

Sorry, there isn't. I got it mixed up.

[Bandito]

I hate Italy because of that fascist cretin Buffon, but I'm really glad about this lad.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/403839_400701633300550_686322831_n.jpg

[Bronco]

hahahaha, i knew it, its always the same, germany gets lucky with its pre round and its first enemy in the finals but when germany gets a real enemy it looses happend always in the last 10 years or so. well at least i wont see so many german flags anymore.

Lucky? They were in the hardest group and came out of it with 9 points, I really thought they were going to win it this year, disappointed that they didn't

[brigadista]

watching on BBC with the commentary as usual turned down = they talk shite -they should cut out the balotelli dissing

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Pretty nice goal.

[brigadista]

Pretty nice goal.

agreed:):)

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

No way Italy is coming back from this.

[brigadista]

Boom!!!! but Italia have no fear they could come back ...

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Second half will be boring though. Spain is already settled so they won't have to do anything, and Italy won't come back.

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Well, they are definetly done now. 2-0 behind with 10 men.

[brigadista]

yep italy are knackered

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Now it's just getting pathetic.

[MustCrushCapitalism]

This was not a game. Game implies competition. This was a massacre.

[Tim Cornelis]

I like Italy more, nicer colours, and I've been there a lot, so I would have liked them to win in that regard But since it has two far-right/fascist players, I rooted for Spain.

[bad ideas actualised by alcohol]

Balotelli is bad-ass though.

[Manic Impressive]

The Spain team are wearing t-shirts with dead spanish soldiers on them disgusting

[Tim Cornelis]

The Spain team are wearing t-shirts with dead spanish soldiers on them disgusting

What do you mean? In this match? What soldiers?

[RedAnarchist]

The Spain team are wearing t-shirts with dead spanish soldiers on them disgusting

If it's the same person, then it's Miki Roque, a Spanish player who has recently died of cancer aged 23. He played for real Betis.

[brigadista]

think they are dead spanish footballers not soldiers

[brigadista]

who is the other italian fascist apart from buffon?

[Tim Cornelis]

who is the other italian fascist apart from buffon?

De Rossi sympathises with the Forza Nuova (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Force_(Italy)).

[Magón]

Shit yeah, Spain. I'm 200 dollars richer.

[bricolage]

witness the delusion of english sports journalism, gerrard and johnson really...

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18657918

[wandnancy91]

I support Spain. I have been their fan since Fernando Torres made a big name in Euro 2008. To add to that, I am also a fan of Saint Ikir and great passer/play maker Fabrigas.

[DDR]

I support Spain. I have been their fan since Fernando Torres made a big name in Euro 2008. To add to that, I am also a fan of Saint Ikir and great passer/play maker Fabrigas.

Dude, supporting Torres shoud be counted as trolling everywhere in this planet.