If you are, which team are you cheering on? I'm looking forward to Germany playing this time around, and the majority of my coworkers are in the same boat as I am. Another close contender is England, followed by Uruguay.
I'm also curious to see how well the U.S. does with their new European coach.
I don't expect much from England, but I'd love to see them do well.
Spain and Germany are incredible contenders, especially Spain. I do think that Brazil may have a stronger showing on account of their being accustomed to the heat - and I think Uruguay might pull out a few surprise victories.
Tough for the US to play Ghana straight out of the gate.
Ditto. Plus England are going to be pants as usual.
Besides, the REAL English national team is in NZ
If you are aware of why there's an English National team for any sport in NZ, then you'll know what I'm really looking forward to. It's about a million times better to watch and played by actual men, with real balls... Also, Scotland is in Houston this weekend to play the Eagles
If you are aware of why there's an English National team for any sport in NZ, then you'll know what I'm really looking forward to. It's about a million times better to watch and played by actual men, with real balls...
Extremely excited. Basically one of the few times my ignorant pro Americanism isn't totally frowned upon! Plus in my area there are TONS of Brazilian Portuguese people in my area and friend group it's fun to talk to smack!
It is a little depressing this time around with all the protesting going on in Brazil though.
I'm kind of shocked that after the big biatchfest over the state of Sochi in February before the Olympics there has hardly been a peep in the news about the state of unsafe stadiums or the social situation in Brazil in comparison. The only mainstream English news I get is from Google, so if there is stuff on TV back in the West I have no idea.
In other news, Pikachu is Team Japan's mascot now. He's everywhere wearing the Japanese blue uniform.
I can't wait, my current job ends on June 13 just in time for the start of the WC
I'll be pulling for the U.S. to put up a decent fight against Ghana, but don't expect much of anything against Portugal or Germany (I fully expect Ronaldo to score at least 3 goals against us, our backline is utter garbage). I'd like to see Spain vs. Brazil or Germany in the final.
The stadiums aren't even going to be complete. There will be chaos at the start, like when that tiny Russian town hosted the Olympics and the hotels weren't ready.
However, the games should be as exciting as always and I'm looking forward to stadium closeups that showcase those super hot Brazilian fans!
I'll be pulling for the U.S. to put up a decent fight against Ghana, but don't expect much of anything against Portugal or Germany (I fully expect Ronaldo to score at least 3 goals against us, our backline is utter garbage)
Portugal will either be a solid win for the US or a total blowout against us. It really depends on which Portugal shows up and if Ronaldo is feeling okay that day. That is the curse of Portugal being a one-player team.
Ghana, I think we can beat just because they pissed us off too many times in a row.
Germany? They have been a bit off their game, but that is standard "Germany getting ready for a World Cup" form though.
My guess for the group is that there will be US and Germany beating Ghana, with all other games being draws.
I don't think the US is the "automatic out" for the group.
I'd like to see Spain vs. Brazil or Germany in the final.
Spain vs. Germany would be my favorite, but I'm thinking Spain vs. Brazil is the most likely. Brazil, at home, is going to be a tough team to beat.
Eh, not interested in football. That being said, I'll pay attention if England, France or Switzerland (are they even in this?) get through to the quarter finals.
It should be interesting to see the media reaction to the quality of the stadiums and accommodation over there. Plus, there's the added risk of riots breaking out on live TV.
I'll be pulling for the U.S. to put up a decent fight against Ghana, but don't expect much of anything against Portugal or Germany (I fully expect Ronaldo to score at least 3 goals against us, our backline is utter garbage)
Portugal will either be a solid win for the US or a total blowout against us. It really depends on which Portugal shows up and if Ronaldo is feeling okay that day. That is the curse of Portugal being a one-player team.
Ghana, I think we can beat just because they pissed us off too many times in a row.
Germany? They have been a bit off their game, but that is standard "Germany getting ready for a World Cup" form though.
My guess for the group is that there will be US and Germany beating Ghana, with all other games being draws.
I don't think the US is the "automatic out" for the group.
I'd like to see Spain vs. Brazil or Germany in the final.
Spain vs. Germany would be my favorite, but I'm thinking Spain vs. Brazil is the most likely. Brazil, at home, is going to be a tough team to beat.
If we can beat Ghana (I think they're 4-0 against us all time...) and force a draw against Portugal (hopefully Ronaldo plays like a bum that day) we could very possibly sneak through if Germany wins their first 2 games and don't play a quality squad against us in the last match.
I still think Portugal is a solid team and their backline isn't bad enough for the U.S. to really exploit - Pereira, Pepe, Bruno Alves, and Fabio Coentrao is a lot better than what we have at the back. Meireles and Moutinho are also quality in their midfield, and having Ronaldo never hurts. It's not impossible to get a result against them but I don't stack the odds in favor of the U.S.
Not a big football (soccer) fan but always make a special effort for the WC, it's always tremendous fun.
Already massively incensed about Sterling getting the red card against Ecuador last night, thought he did well not to react to that.
Also to see the country go nuts and stop to a stand-still if England make it out of the group phase. Bad point is that every other advert on TV is now ugly people making ridiculous faces for the next few weeks.
Made me laugh about the current news that Qatar's bid was apparently 'corrupt' with people in Fifa being paid off. Did anyone seriously think that that wasn't the case?
-Shrike- wrote: Plus, there's the added benefit of riots breaking out on live TV.
Can't wait, finished my exams on the 3rd and all my friends are in until the 17th. I'll be hoping for Italy to do well, we cant do any worse than last time.
I seem to be the only person who doesn't want to see Spain in the final, watching them play bores the hell out of me, they might be good at winning games but as a spectacle it's pretty tiresome to watch.
-Shrike- wrote: Plus, there's the added benefit of riots breaking out on live TV.
I seem to be the only person who doesn't want to see Spain in the final, watching them play bores the hell out of me, they might be good at winning games but as a spectacle it's pretty tiresome to watch.
Well, a friend wants to see Italy. Italy being the only team capable to hypothetically catch up to Brasil in the number of world titles. I'd like to see Germany and France doing well, I enjoyed their games in the previous series and France doesn't strike as strong fighter to anyone I've talked to, I'd like to see them surprising few heads. Any South American team gets my support to go to the final.
-Shrike- wrote:Eh, not interested in football. That being said, I'll pay attention if England, France or Switzerland (are they even in this?) get through to the quarter finals. V.
Switzerland stand a decent chance at grabbing 2nd spot in Group E behind France
I seem to be the only person who doesn't want to see Spain in the final, watching them play bores the hell out of me, they might be good at winning games but as a spectacle it's pretty tiresome to watch.
Same here, much rather see a Brazil/Germany vs Argentina matchup
Chancetragedy wrote: Extremely excited. Basically one of the few times my ignorant pro Americanism isn't totally frowned upon! Plus in my area there are TONS of Brazilian Portuguese people in my area and friend group it's fun to talk to smack!
It is a little depressing this time around with all the protesting going on in Brazil though.
Chancetragedy wrote: Extremely excited. Basically one of the few times my ignorant pro Americanism isn't totally frowned upon! Plus in my area there are TONS of Brazilian Portuguese people in my area and friend group it's fun to talk to smack!
It is a little depressing this time around with all the protesting going on in Brazil though.
What the hell is a Brazilian Portuguese person?
You do realize Brazil and Portugal are 2 different places yes? Idk all my friends make a big deal about the differentiation. So I go with that especially since in my area there are a lot of both groups, Portuguese from Portugal and Portuguese from Brazil.
I dont care about football, not even to go as far as to support England anymore. This will change briefly while playing, and will die as soon as they get kicked out, which wont be long I think.
However I will be watching the crime stats, if not the football scores.
There has already been serious concerns raised from inside and outside Brazil that local gang culture and the chronic rise in street crime in Brazilian cities may ruin the World Cup . This may also possibly effect Rio's already tenuous grasp on the 2016 Olympics.
The IOC has already placed warnings that Rio is too far behind with Olympics preparations, severely behind even where Athens was with two years to go until the games, and Athens only just finished in time.
Combine this with crime fears and Rio might lose the Olympics. It has already been floated in the IOC and the body can go that far.
This would be a humiliation for Brazil when they are getting stronger as a nation
Chancetragedy wrote: Extremely excited. Basically one of the few times my ignorant pro Americanism isn't totally frowned upon! Plus in my area there are TONS of Brazilian Portuguese people in my area and friend group it's fun to talk to smack!
It is a little depressing this time around with all the protesting going on in Brazil though.
What the hell is a Brazilian Portuguese person?
You do realize Brazil and Portugal are 2 different places yes? Idk all my friends make a big deal about the differentiation. So I go with that especially since in my area there are a lot of both groups, Portuguese from Portugal and Portuguese from Brazil.
I *THINK* that may be similar to how in America we (stupidly) call black people "Afircan-Americans"... a Portuguese-Brazilian would be someone who is from/lives in Brazil, but is of Portuguese descent?
Then that person is called Brazilian. I've visited Brasil many times, I'm emigrating there soon, and my girlfriend is Brazilian, and I've never heard the term "Brazilian Portuguese" in my life.
So yes, thank you, I realise Brasil and Portugal are different places you patronising gakker.
Quote from my girlfriend: "This isn't real, there isn't such a thing as Brazilian Portuguese person. I can't believe people are discussing this gak online. I've never EVER EVER heard that in my life, and I studied immigration between Portugal and Brasil in college, there isn't such thing. I descend from Portuguese, Italian, Native Indian and African, what does that make me, a Portuguese-Italian-Native-American-Indian-Somewhere-Around-Angola-Brazilian person?"
I just cannot get excited this year over it. Maybe its the bollox TV times here in Ireland or the bizarre stories coming out over the "preparation" feth knows
When you say Brazilian Portuguese, are you mixing up language with nationality by any chance? Because the dialect of Portuguese spoken in Brasil (and also the only official language, and definitely a separate language to Spanish) is called Brazilian Portuguese. Brazilian Spanish doesn't exist.
Ratius wrote: I just cannot get excited this year over it. Maybe its the bollox TV times here in Ireland or the bizarre stories coming out over the "preparation" feth knows
It's been a hard year. Rather reasonable that many people aren't having the spirit for this world cup.
Made me laugh about the current news that Qatar's bid was apparently 'corrupt' with people in Fifa being paid off. Did anyone seriously think that that wasn't the case?
I know, right? It's a pathetic state of affairs. England could literally host a world cup tomorrow, is the home of football and has the most (still?) watched top-flight in the world and Qatar (which means 'who-gives-a-feth' in arabic) has sand. And rich people.
Orlanth wrote: I dont care about football, not even to go as far as to support England anymore. This will change briefly while playing, and will die as soon as they get kicked out, which wont be long I think.
However I will be watching the crime stats, if not the football scores.
There has already been serious concerns raised from inside and outside Brazil that local gang culture and the chronic rise in street crime in Brazilian cities may ruin the World Cup . This may also possibly effect Rio's already tenuous grasp on the 2016 Olympics.
The IOC has already placed warnings that Rio is too far behind with Olympics preparations, severely behind even where Athens was with two years to go until the games, and Athens only just finished in time.
Combine this with crime fears and Rio might lose the Olympics. It has already been floated in the IOC and the body can go that far.
This would be a humiliation for Brazil when they are getting stronger as a nation
Brazil won't lose the Olypmics. No one else has time to spend the gazillion's of people's money to build sports palaces for rich tourists.
Made me laugh about the current news that Qatar's bid was apparently 'corrupt' with people in Fifa being paid off. Did anyone seriously think that that wasn't the case?
I know, right? It's a pathetic state of affairs. England could literally host a world cup tomorrow, is the home of football and has the most (still?) watched top-flight in the world and Qatar (which means 'who-gives-a-feth' in arabic) has sand. And rich people.
My thoughts were the world cup would just be a home game of Subutteo for those people, same as the F1 and Motogp is basically just a Scalextric in their back yard. Every football fan on the planet be damned.
Glad Brazil won, though not overly convincing. Croatia spend too much time trying to cheat their way to victory rather than just playing football, because when they actually play they are very good.
So I'm watching The Netherlands absolutely HAMMER Spain... and I have the biggest grin on my face. It's going to finish 5-1 to Holland. Is this the death knell for Tiki Taka?
Watching Spain, I can't help but think that playing with a traditional number 9 in Diego Costa has really hampered them. They played a lot better with a false number 9, like Fabregas or even Ineista just in front of the midfield.
Personally I took some schadenfreude in the Spanish defeat the main reason being despite being able to play some beautiful football they constantly dive around on contact.
Hlaine Larkin mk2 wrote: Personally I took some schadenfreude in the Spanish defeat the main reason being despite being able to play some beautiful football they constantly dive around on contact.
Does there even need to be contact for them to dive?
I have to say I am surprised my sisters' boyfriend has managed to sustain his all abiding hatred of Neymar after Brasils' first game.
He's cheering on Australia as well this world cup - not that he has much to cheer about - more like yelling at the TV.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: Spare a thought for D-USA when Germany plays America. Will he change sides at half time
I'd hate to have divided loyalties
It will depend on the points in the group
If one team can advance with a loss and the other has to win to advance, then I will cheer for the one in need of the win.
If both are already safe I will cheer for the Mannschaft.
If only one team can advance I will cheer for my German boys as well, but won't be sad if the US advances either.
If one is clearly out and the other has to win to advance then I will cheer for that team.
If both teams are out then I'm just getting drunk
Hlaine Larkin mk2 wrote: Personally I took some schadenfreude in the Spanish defeat the main reason being despite being able to play some beautiful football they constantly dive around on contact.
Me too.. Costa definitely hammed up that slightly sloppy tackle at the beginning of the game, IMO the 2nd penalty of the tournament that has been incorrectly awarded.
But yes, diving (sorry.. 'simulation') is definitely a big part of the game. The players aren't punished anything like enough for being caught doing it, and are rewarded with set pieces on each occasion and so it keeps on happening.
Good to see Holland win though, played superbly and most of all looked like they really wanted to win. Spain brought to mind the Broncos in the Superbowl, they just looked so lack-lustre (to draw a comparison).
I'm hoping Brazil wins as I pulled them out of the hat in the sweepstake at work. I'll get £64 back if they win. But their first game wasn't hugely convincing, a dubious penalty and Croatia getting careless through desperation right at the end. It could have been 1:1
The Dutch destroyed Spain last night, there's defeating your opponent, and then there's humiliating them.
Watching the spain game, I felt bad for Casillas. On the other hand, hahahahahahah. Love to see the clear favourite get crushed.
As for the England game, spoilered as it's basically just finished:
Spoiler:
For me, both sides had three main weaknesses:
For England:
- the full backs needed to communicate more with their respective wide midfielders and center backs, too many gaps opened when they weren't covering for one another, which led to Balotelli's goal. Johnson was marking Marchisio so he wasn't at the far post, and Cahill wasn't covering it fully, assuming he was there.
- In the first half, the forwards struggled with having that instinct of being in the right place at the right time. Too many crosses and driven passes into the box and not enough white shirts on the end of it.
- In the second half, though they had great build up play, the wingers and midfielders really struggled with making that one last pass to have a shot on goal, especially when crossing the ball.
For Italy:
- Sirigu, though he didn't concede any goals due to a mistake, his positioning seemed off- with England's goal, he was too close to the near post to even have a chance of intercepting a cross if it came closer to him, and could've come closer to saving the volley at the far post. Also, when Rooney had the shot go wide of the near post, he was far too committed to the far post, left his entire right side of the goal wide open.
- The Italian defenders were either too reckless in their challenges, or too cautious about it.
- Pirlo can only do so much when Balotelli's the only player forward and is marked by two players, and everyone else is just chilling in the midfield- they needed to make more runs.
But overall, both teams played very well, and despite my concerns over the youth of England, not a single one of them played poorly. If only England had a goal poacher and/or target man in the front to slot home those driven crosses and find those pockets of space in the penalty area. Shows great promise for the future, not just in the current world cup, but in the next few to come.
Nothing makes me appreciate ice hockey's rules against embellishment like watching World Cup soccer.
This is why this game's never going to truly catch on in America: it's all about who can take the lightest possible hit yet scream and flop the loudest.
Rooney had to be the worst player in the England game last night, no idea what he was doing. Sterling just done nothing but impress me on the other hand.
Seaward wrote: Nothing makes me appreciate ice hockey's rules against embellishment like watching World Cup soccer.
This is why this game's never going to truly catch on in America: it's all about who can take the lightest possible hit yet scream and flop the loudest.
Azza007 wrote: Rooney had to be the worst player in the England game last night, no idea what he was doing. Sterling just done nothing but impress me on the other hand.
He set up the first goal for Sturridge if you remember and he's being played out of place from where he is meant to be played. It also doesn't help that the media is slating him either, which is unfair considering. Also he played very well in my opinion and had chances but Italy were the better side last night.
I thought Argentina played very poorly tonight. I thought Messi was hugely overrated during the 2010 cup, and I didn't see anything to convince me otherwise today. Not impressed. They'll make it through to the elimination round on account of how easy their group is, but I don't think they'll go further than the quarter finals.
AFP wrote:Prostitutes play football match on World Cup sidelines
Belo Horizonte (Brazil) (AFP) - Brazilian prostitutes and a Christian evangelical group played a football match Saturday in World Cup host city Belo Horizonte, taking over a central street to raise awareness about sex workers' rights.
Gathering just after Colombia played Greece in the southeastern city, the women set up an impromptu pitch using traffic cones for goalposts and played to the enthusiastic cheers of onlookers.
The prostitutes, calling themselves the Naked Football Club -- though in fact they played in the green and yellow uniforms of Brazil -- teamed up with the visiting evangelicals from the United States to take on a local university team in a match with a message.
"Rights must be the same for everyone. We're no different from anyone else just because we're sex workers," player Patricia Bonges told AFP.
"We are finally breaking that prejudice and stigma."
Her American teammate Jenny Jack said the game was about showing that "you just love people, you don't judge, you don't change people, you just love them."
Prostitutes in Brazil have long complained of discrimination and called for the government to treat their profession like any other, including with programs to help older sex workers.
The match was organized by the Prostitutes' Association of Minas Gerais, the state where Belo Horizonte is located.
The association has also helped some of the city's 80,000 sex workers prepare for the World Cup by offering free English classes at a local mall.
d-usa wrote: That hasn't stopped the NBA from being popular
The NBA's full of divers.
It's nowhere near as bad as soccer, though. I like soccer. I enjoy watching it. But the fact that "who can look like the biggest pussy" is part and parcel of the game seriously diminishes it.
It is a pain in the rear, even more so when "I'm hurt, I'm hurt" is just a way to try to milk time off the clock.
5 minutes left in the game and somebody from the team that is ahead goes down, even if it's not a dive, and then just lays there in agony and pain barely even alive after their traumatic injury.
Poor guy can't move, probably broke both his legs, might even be paralized. Tick tock tick tock.
Referee get's tired of this crap and calls for a stretcher. It's a miracle that they can even get this broken man on the stretcher without killing him. They barely managed to carry him off the field alive. Tick tock tick tock.
The stretcher gets to the sideline and is finally off the field. 2-3 minutes have been wasted on this crap. And what does our traumatized player do? He jumps of the stretcher and walks over to the trainer to get some magic spray or goes straight to the sideline official to get back into the game.
The referees should just grow a pair of balls on that one and just go straight for a red. But that's just me. Although I think "time wasting" is just a yellow, but they don't even get that. Of course booking him will just result in 60 more seconds of arguing which is what they were going for to begin with...
Azza007 wrote: Rooney had to be the worst player in the England game last night, no idea what he was doing. Sterling just done nothing but impress me on the other hand.
He set up the first goal for Sturridge if you remember and he's being played out of place from where he is meant to be played. It also doesn't help that the media is slating him either, which is unfair considering. Also he played very well in my opinion and had chances but Italy were the better side last night.
In my opinion, they should've played him as a centre forward or not at all. He just doesn't have the pace or finesse to play as a winger nearly as much as other players sat on the bench- even Sturridge and Welbeck could have done better down the sides. That said, he did have a lot of defending to do with Candreva tearing up his side constantly- I reckon if he'd have been on the other side he'd have had more freedom to attack.
creeping-deth87 wrote:I thought Argentina played very poorly tonight. I thought Messi was hugely overrated during the 2010 cup, and I didn't see anything to convince me otherwise today. Not impressed. They'll make it through to the elimination round on account of how easy their group is, but I don't think they'll go further than the quarter finals.
Messi's never been good at international tournaments, and he's only said to be as good as he is in them because he's so amazing for Barcelona. And they just don't have the defense needed to progress far- sure, they have probably the best strike force of any nation- Tevez (going to Disneyland this year), Di Maria, Aguero and Messi, but they don't have many good defenders, and those they do have are getting old.
Seaward wrote:
d-usa wrote: That hasn't stopped the NBA from being popular
The NBA's full of divers.
It's nowhere near as bad as soccer, though. I like soccer. I enjoy watching it. But the fact that "who can look like the biggest pussy" is part and parcel of the game seriously diminishes it.
I'm pretty sure every single player, referee, manager and fan agrees, but it's literally just the one group who can change it- FIFA- who don't want to, and I'm yet to hear a decent excuse as to why. Though they have started using goal line technology, so I'm thinking that's probably the start of implementing after-the-fact replays to influence decisions.
If the NBA can look at tape and fine a player after the game, then FIFA has no excuse.
Edit: although it would be interesting how such a fine would be implemented at the World Cup level. Some countries have players with more money than others, so some of our bigger nations could afford to dive while it would keep smaller nations from diving. Which would just make things unfair since you shouldn't be able to buy the tactical benefit of a dive.
Deduct it from any payouts to the national federations? After the game cards for players and suspensions?
Seaward wrote: Nothing makes me appreciate ice hockey's rules against embellishment like watching World Cup soccer.
This is why this game's never going to truly catch on in America: it's all about who can take the lightest possible hit yet scream and flop the loudest.
shrike wrote: Though they have started using goal line technology, so I'm thinking that's probably the start of implementing after-the-fact replays to influence decisions.
I like that they are finally using vanishing spray. We have used it in MLS for a few years and it really is amazing how little "let me just throw the ball a little bit closer once more" and "let me inch a couple of feet closer to the kicker" goes on once you mark the spots. Do you guys use it in the PL?
I'm looking forward to Germany Portugal today, but I'd hate to be a water bottle if Germany lose! I remember Germany's defeat to Serbia in the last world cup, and the comedy gold that Loew provided on the touchlines. Bottles booted, lucky jersey thrown aside!
Seaward wrote: Nothing makes me appreciate ice hockey's rules against embellishment like watching World Cup soccer.
This is why this game's never going to truly catch on in America: it's all about who can take the lightest possible hit yet scream and flop the loudest.
Kind of like basketball then?
Frazz, my local bookmaker is giving odds of 5000-1 that the USA will invade Brazil, if the USA don't win the world cup!
d-usa wrote:If the NBA can look at tape and fine a player after the game, then FIFA has no excuse.
Edit: although it would be interesting how such a fine would be implemented at the World Cup level. Some countries have players with more money than others, so some of our bigger nations could afford to dive while it would keep smaller nations from diving. Which would just make things unfair since you shouldn't be able to buy the tactical benefit of a dive.
Deduct it from any payouts to the national federations? After the game cards for players and suspensions?
What's even more annoying is that they fine players for violence, like Ribery slapping Carvajal in the Bayern/Real game in the Champion's League finals, but not for stuff like diving.
d-usa wrote:
shrike wrote: Though they have started using goal line technology, so I'm thinking that's probably the start of implementing after-the-fact replays to influence decisions.
I like that they are finally using vanishing spray. We have used it in MLS for a few years and it really is amazing how little "let me just throw the ball a little bit closer once more" and "let me inch a couple of feet closer to the kicker" goes on once you mark the spots. Do you guys use it in the PL?
No, but people have been pushing for it for a while now. Actually, this is the first time I've seen it used in football ever.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I'm looking forward to Germany Portugal today, but I'd hate to be a water bottle if Germany lose! I remember Germany's defeat to Serbia in the last world cup, and the comedy gold that Loew provided on the touchlines. Bottles booted, lucky jersey thrown aside!
Seaward wrote: Nothing makes me appreciate ice hockey's rules against embellishment like watching World Cup soccer.
This is why this game's never going to truly catch on in America: it's all about who can take the lightest possible hit yet scream and flop the loudest.
Kind of like basketball then?
Frazz, my local bookmaker is giving odds of 5000-1 that the USA will invade Brazil, if the USA don't win the world cup!
Any signs of a military build up in Texas?
We had a massive biker rally in Austin. There's your clue.
Just infest the field with red ant nests. No one one will lay down again ever. Plus everyone will keep moving to keep the ants from climbing their shoes and eating them alive. its perfect. best of all, its NATURE.
What's even more annoying is that they fine players for violence, like Ribery slapping Carvajal in the Bayern/Real game in the Champion's League finals, but not for stuff like diving.
What's even more ironic than that, is that some of the least likely to dive during their careers (aka, acting) went on to ACTUAL acting careers
Automatically Appended Next Post:
Frazzled wrote: Just infest the field with red ant nests. No one one will lay down again ever. Plus everyone will keep moving to keep the ants from climbing their shoes and eating them alive. its perfect. best of all, its NATURE.
Frazz, I once played rugby on a field that had about a hundred fire ant nests, and I can assure you that it does indeed suck. (Best of all for me, I didn't get tackled or "lay down" near or on a nest, but I did tackle/throw a dude onto one )
d-usa wrote: What to you think about it now that you have seen it in action?
I'm a fan. It's amazing how something so small and simple can keep people in their spot and keep the game flowing better.
It really should be more used more, it's quick and painless
The only way to stop diving is to have the players booked every time or enforce substitutions because it's obvious they're too hurt to go on
I like enforced substitutions. If you're rolling around screaming and clutching your leg, you're obviously hurt. We'll get you off the pitch so you can be looked at.
Frazzled wrote: Just infest the field with red ant nests. No one one will lay down again ever. Plus everyone will keep moving to keep the ants from climbing their shoes and eating them alive. its perfect. best of all, its NATURE.
Good grief, the man's a genius. Maybe some of these players will finally earn their paychecks!
I hope that the US and Germany win both initial games and are both a sure-in to advance. That way the US-Germany game can be enjoyed without divided loyalty!
Annoyingly only got to see the 2nd half of Germany-Portugal, when really it was already over.
Muller was a pussy and went down like a sack of gak, but hey Pepe was foolish for reacting to it. Yes, they need a 4th referee who could have said into the ref's ear "nope, he dived" ten seconds after the event, and stop players continuing to be rewarded for diving.
Also, the guy who presents on UK ITV is almost unbearable. I can forgive him looking like a hunchbacked toad, but he's a sensationalist and keeps digging for arguments about anything other than the game.
Pepe's handslap really wasn't worth much, maybe just a Yellow Card and be off with. The headbutt, as soft as it was, however, is a complete no-go and he fully deserved Red for this.
Sigvatr wrote: Pepe's handslap really wasn't worth much, maybe just a Yellow Card and be off with. The headbutt, as soft as it was, however, is a complete no-go and he fully deserved Red for this.
Pacific wrote: Muller was a pussy and went down like a sack of gak, but hey Pepe was foolish for reacting to it. Yes, they need a 4th referee who could have said into the ref's ear "nope, he dived" ten seconds after the event, and stop players continuing to be rewarded for diving.
I think cheating / diving / over reacting / unseen fouls should be punished post match using video replays of the incident which is judged by a panel. Majority guilty verdict = 1 match ban for the player and a 1 point deduction for his team. That would clean up the game in no time.
Pacific wrote: Muller was a pussy and went down like a sack of gak, but hey Pepe was foolish for reacting to it. Yes, they need a 4th referee who could have said into the ref's ear "nope, he dived" ten seconds after the event, and stop players continuing to be rewarded for diving.
I think cheating / diving / over reacting / unseen fouls should be punished post match using video replays of the incident which is judged by a panel. Majority guilty verdict = 1 match ban for the player and a 1 point deduction for his team. That would clean up the game in no time.
This but up the punishment to having both legs broken.
Sigvatr wrote: Pepe's handslap really wasn't worth much, maybe just a Yellow Card and be off with. The headbutt, as soft as it was, however, is a complete no-go and he fully deserved Red for this.
I dont even know why he bodered to headbutt him.
In short, Pepe's an absolute nutter. 217 club games played in his career, 62 yellow cards.
Him and his Real Madrid partner Sergio Ramos have a total of 543 games played, 188 yellow cards and approaching 30 red cards. Filthiest pairing of players I've ever seen.
What a weird start for the USA. Go up 1-0 in the first minute then Losing Altidore and Dempsey's nose gets obliterated possibly hampering/removing him.
I'm surprised at how bad usa's offensive possession has been in the first half. Hopefully they can put pressure on Ghana I the second.
kamakazepanda wrote: Ghana just can't make anything out of numerous opportunities despite dominating possession.
USA defence has been very solid, though has made the game rather dull....
If there's one thing I hate about football other than cheating, it's teams parking the bus. Sure it gets results, but it defeats the purpose of football for me. Not fun at all to watch.
Sigvatr wrote: Pepe's handslap really wasn't worth much, maybe just a Yellow Card and be off with. The headbutt, as soft as it was, however, is a complete no-go and he fully deserved Red for this.
I dont even know why he bodered to headbutt him.
In short, Pepe's an absolute nutter. 217 club games played in his career, 62 yellow cards.
Him and his Real Madrid partner Sergio Ramos have a total of 543 games played, 188 yellow cards and approaching 30 red cards. Filthiest pairing of players I've ever seen.
Yes the guy is a loose cannon - probably shouldn't be playing at the international level if he can't control himself, that just guaranteed a loss for Portugal.
Damn you, America! Damn you! I had £10 on Ghana beating the US A!
Gimme back my money!
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d-usa wrote: I hope that the US and Germany win both initial games and are both a sure-in to advance. That way the US-Germany game can be enjoyed without divided loyalty!
A good result for Germany and definitely one of the favourites for the cup, but I have one word that strikes fear in the heart of every German:
They obviously needed to beat Ghana... and barely did. They got dominated the second half, but still came through. Great finish.
Then USA also needed either Germany or Portugal to crush the other one. Mission accomplished.
USA's best chance of advancing is to tie Portugal and then to not get crushed against Germany.
Germany and USA are my teams. I really hope both are able to advance. I didn't think USA had a chance when I saw the groups, but now I have just enough hope to disappointed later.
Sigvatr wrote: Pepe's handslap really wasn't worth much, maybe just a Yellow Card and be off with. The headbutt, as soft as it was, however, is a complete no-go and he fully deserved Red for this.
I dont even know why he bodered to headbutt him.
In short, Pepe's an absolute nutter. 217 club games played in his career, 62 yellow cards.
Him and his Real Madrid partner Sergio Ramos have a total of 543 games played, 188 yellow cards and approaching 30 red cards. Filthiest pairing of players I've ever seen.
Yes the guy is a loose cannon - probably shouldn't be playing at the international level if he can't control himself, that just guaranteed a loss for Portugal.
Honestly though, if he doesn't get carded during a game, he is a very good defender. Very... tenacious about winning the ball, it's just that the same passion that drives him also makes him go absolutely ballistic every so often.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote:A good result for Germany and definitely one of the favourites for the cup, but I have one word that strikes fear in the heart of every German:
ITALY
Honestly, besides the usual England, I want Italy or Holland to win. Holland because they haven't won it yet despite so many absolute legends, past and present- Bergkamp, Gullit, Van Nistelrooy, Van Basten, Van der Sar, Kluivert, De Boer, Seedorf, Riijkard, Van Persie, Sneijder, Robben...
and Italy because they probably have the highest number of players I like, Buffon and Pirlo especially.
Probably going to be controversial here but here goes.
England V Italy should be the last game Rooney plays in an England shirt. He's done well at club level, but despite his talent he has never been at the races in World or European Championships.
Injury, position, teammates? Not a real reason for his lacklustre performances on the world stage.
I don't trust him to score goals and - providing the occasional cross/assist - isn't justification to play him.
Who replaces him? Drop the medias hyperbolic 'on his day he's world class' tagand anyone can line up to replace him.
USA's best chance of advancing is to tie Portugal and then to not get crushed against Germany.
Not going to happen, though. USA is a very weak football team and doesn't stand a chance against Germany.
There's always the chance that Germany rest up a lot of players.
Came to post, what happens if Germany has already sown up advancement out of the group round and rests a bunch of players? America is a team that will be fighting till the end and there is a chance for a tie or possible win(highly doubtful they win but you never know). Now if they play each other in the elimination stages America probably has no shot but as they say "you can't win the cup in group stage"
Germany has, pretty much, already qualified and passed the group stage with their remaining opponents being Ghana and the USA, and since USA is last, they will definitely play them with the B squad.
USA's best chance of advancing is to tie Portugal and then to not get crushed against Germany.
Not going to happen, though. USA is a very weak football team and doesn't stand a chance against Germany.
They don't have to beat Germany, and potentially they don't even have to tie Germany.
As long as Germany beats Ghana (which I think is very likely to happen) and the US beats Portugal (which is a possibility with the red cards and injuries to Portugal) we would have the following standings before the final game:
Germany 6 pts
USA 4 pts
Portugal 1 pts
Ghana 0 pts
But the most important statistic is the tie breaker: goal differential. And right now the US is 5 goals ahead of Portugal.
If the US ties against Germany (it's a possibility) they advance, no matter what.
If the US loses to Germany and Portugal ties with Ghana, the US advances.
If the US loses to Germany and Ghana beats Portugal, the US advances.
If the US loses to Germany and Portugal beats Ghana, then the US advances unless the combined games on the final day manage to erase that 5 point deficit that Portugal is facing.
Sigvatr wrote: Germany has, pretty much, already qualified and passed the group stage with their remaining opponents being Ghana and the USA, and since USA is last, they will definitely play them with the B squad.
USA beat the German B squad last year... well, actually that was more like the C squad, I was at the game. Germany was wearing their green shirts and some of the the German fans near us decided that it must be Ireland playing.. not Germany (after the own goal). The rest of the match they were cheering for Ireland. Ireland almost had a nice comeback, we were nervous.
We'll see what happens, but if USA can somehow tie Portugal, they will be in good shape.
Sigvatr wrote: Germany has, pretty much, already qualified and passed the group stage with their remaining opponents being Ghana and the USA, and since USA is last, they will definitely play them with the B squad.
Thankfully, I doubt the German coaching staff will be as arrogant and conceited as you are being. You've won one match against a Portugal team that was appalling. Settle down. There's still time for things to go spectacularly wrong. Ghana and the USA are no mugs. Underestimate them at your peril.
True, but I still wouldn't put money down on the US or Ghana against Germany.
US were really disciplined in defence and that might make it a very low scoring game though, and Portugal's confidence must be at a low after that game. It would still be a shock if Portugal doesn't go through in 2nd place, but not as much as it would have been a week ago!
Mr. Burning wrote:Probably going to be controversial here but here goes.
England V Italy should be the last game Rooney plays in an England shirt. He's done well at club level, but despite his talent he has never been at the races in World or European Championships.
Injury, position, teammates? Not a real reason for his lacklustre performances on the world stage.
I don't trust him to score goals and - providing the occasional cross/assist - isn't justification to play him.
Who replaces him? Drop the medias hyperbolic 'on his day he's world class' tagand anyone can line up to replace him.
EDIT: Just heard he has requested extra training.
He always does extra training, same reason he played in the england friendlies before the world cup- playing extra is how he prepares, resting does him no good
He is definitely not great on the world stage, but he's still a damned sight better than most england forwards. Even without scoring, his strength, determination and passion, not to mention his passing and heading, have a very positive impact on the team, much more than the likes of Welbeck.
BattleCapIronblood wrote:That Mexico vs Brazil game gave me health problems because of how intense that was!
Chancetragedy wrote:The Mexican goalie Ochoa was dynamite. Good game for a tie.
I've said it several times, Ochoa doesn't follow physics. Poor positioning and handling of the ball, but his diving and reactions are ridiculous. He's saved his teams from relegation many a time in the french and mexican leagues.
Yah it's pretty unbelievable what he was able to do. The Neymar header save he made was literally inside the goal but didn't break the plane completely, talk about unbelievable!
Chancetragedy wrote: Yah it's pretty unbelievable what he was able to do. The Neymar header save he made was literally inside the goal but didn't break the plane completely, talk about unbelievable!
yeah, that was somewhat reminiscent of the Gordon Banks save...
Chancetragedy wrote: The Mexican goalie Ochoa was dynamite. Good game for a tie.
Next world cup he'll probably be playing for the US
zing!
Also, not only is he a good keeper to watch, it's even more entertaining imagining that it's actually Colonel Gaddafi's son trying to avoid detection by pretending to be a mexican goalie.
d-usa wrote: Imagine FIFA cracking down on flopping, and players actually having to play through physical play and giving us more of this:
I wouldn't mind more of that.
edit: Rewatching that gif, Walcott did ridiculously well to ride that second tackle without eating gak and still retain possession.
Same reason I'll always rate Messi higher than Neymar- Neymar dives, or at least goes down with the lightest touch, whilst at least Messi fights to stay on his feet, and if he does get shoved into the dirt, will scramble back up and try and carry on until the whistle.
Sigvatr wrote: Germany has, pretty much, already qualified and passed the group stage with their remaining opponents being Ghana and the USA, and since USA is last, they will definitely play them with the B squad.
Thankfully, I doubt the German coaching staff will be as arrogant and conceited as you are being. You've won one match against a Portugal team that was appalling. Settle down. There's still time for things to go spectacularly wrong. Ghana and the USA are no mugs. Underestimate them at your peril.
May I introduce to you, the seat. The seat, meet Albatross.
USA simply isn't a strong football team. Period. It's the same as Germany playing an American football match vs. the USA. Germany would be going down in flames as well.
If the FIFA rankings were accurate we wouldn't have the World Cup, or even world cup qualifying. We would just hand a trophy to whoever is #1 on a predetermined day every 4 years.
And even if the rankings are accurate, you still have a statistical chance that you can lose. Germany can play the US 10 times and win 9 out of 1 games, but they can also lose 1 game just by chance. And that is all that game is: one game between Germany and the US. One game between Germany and Ghana.
Keep in mind that the US is ranked 13th (not exactly a "bad team") and that Germany was unable to beat the teams that are ranked 56th and 69th in the month prior to the World Cup.
Every team has an opportunity to beat any opponent in any game. Take the 5% chance of losing lightly and it might just kick you in the butt.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I'd love the USA to win the match, if only to increase football's popularity in the US. And yes, they can certainly win a match. It's just that, overall, they clearly are the inferior team.
Australia - Netherlands was a okay match. Could have been better. Australia is extremely talented in faking falls.
Guess no celebratory opening of the tinnies and wife-beatings in Aus then tonight, although the team sure as hell put up a fight.
That Leckie spent about half the match sliding around on his arse, really should have been carded for the dive in the penalty box at the end of the game - but hey, like every other dive this WC he wasn't, and so it will continue.
Very stop-start game, think the ref must have got through about 3 whistles it was tuning into a joke by the end.
d-usa wrote: If the FIFA rankings were accurate we wouldn't have the World Cup, or even world cup qualifying. We would just hand a trophy to whoever is #1 on a predetermined day every 4 years.
Not really true, I mean look at the IRB world rankings (for Rugby), while there is a clear divide between Tier 1 nations (Aus, SA, NZ, Eng, Sco, IRL, Fra, Arg, Ita) there are occasions where a Tier 2 nation will beat a Tier 1... and there are great battles on the pitch between those Tier 1 nations... Just because NZ has been ranked number 1 in the world for the past 100 years, doesn't mean they don't lose on occasion. (hell, they've only won 2 RWCs... the first ever one, in 1987, and the most recent one in 2011)
Also an example of why you shouldn't play a keeper who's been on the bench for the past season. Lopez, Reina or De Gea would all be better choices- hell, even Valdez.
d-usa wrote: If the FIFA rankings were accurate we wouldn't have the World Cup, or even world cup qualifying. We would just hand a trophy to whoever is #1 on a predetermined day every 4 years.
It's official: Spain and Australia are officially out!
shrike wrote: Also an example of why you shouldn't play a keeper who's been on the bench for the past season. Lopez, Reina or De Gea would all be better choices- hell, even Valdez.
I've always felt sorry for Valdes because Casillas has just been that little bit better than him and stopped him getting many caps for Spain
De Gea imo is like Barthez, highly erratic but can come up big when you need him to, just don't count on it
Hlaine Larkin mk2 wrote:It's official: Spain and Australia are officially out!
shrike wrote: Also an example of why you shouldn't play a keeper who's been on the bench for the past season. Lopez, Reina or De Gea would all be better choices- hell, even Valdez.
I've always felt sorry for Valdes because Casillas has just been that little bit better than him and stopped him getting many caps for Spain
De Gea imo is like Barthez, highly erratic but can come up big when you need him to, just don't count on it
Sigvatr wrote: Hahaha, I am taking it all back! EVERYTHING is possible in this World Championship
European Champion turns out to be the worst team so far
I don't think they were that bad at all! They just got out-played by a much faster, hungrier and (for a lot of the time) more skilful Chilean team. Think they probably used the wrong players, and missed the chances they did have.
But, both Chilean goals were awesome, and in fact that was probably one of my favourite games of the tournament so far.
Sigvatr wrote: Hahaha, I am taking it all back! EVERYTHING is possible in this World Championship
European Champion turns out to be the worst team so far
I don't think they were that bad at all! They just got out-played by a much faster, hungrier and (for a lot of the time) more skilful Chilean team. Think they probably used the wrong players, and missed the chances they did have.
But, both Chilean goals were awesome, and in fact that was probably one of my favourite games of the tournament so far.
Yeah, definitely weren't the worst of the tournament, just straight up didn't play well as a team, and didn't finish the chances they did have.
"It's" gonna hit the fan when the next stage in the Cup begins. Games are gonna be so much more intense. I'm hoping Mexico pulls through with a miracle, but if not, the Krauts have my support.
Sigvatr wrote: So right now, Spain and England are already out of the WC...the hell?
England aren't out yet... if Italy beat Uruguay and Costa Rica, and England beat Costa Rica with a better goal difference, we're second in the group and we'll go into the round of 16. Hanging in there by the skin of our teeth
Annoyed yet again, both of England's games were very close, each game a draw would have been fair. Godin should have had a second yellow card for jabbing Sturridge in the throat and Suarez's second goal was a mixture of an unlucky header and Hart ducking his shoulder under the shot. Hodgson should really give Lallana, Barkley and Forster more of a chance- not speaking as a Celtic fan, but Forster would have reached Suarez's header (he's 6' 7") and would have stood firm 1 vs 1 (he's a big bastard, he doesn't hit the deck unless he's sure the striker's drilling it).
England need to play Lallana instead of Welbeck if they're playing 4-2-3-1, and Try out Barkley if Sturridge and Rooney aren't getting anywhere.
And I've said it repeatedly, england's defense really needs some experience along the back four to get some communication going on- Most of the goals conceded are directly because of poor coordination along the back four.
England aren't out yet... if Italy beat Uruguay and Costa Rica, and England beat Costa Rica with a better goal difference, we're second in the group and we'll go into the round of 16. Hanging in there by the skin of our teeth
Seeing as England lost twice, I think they are out and should be out.
What a pity. Overpaid prima donnas (don't) strike again, add four more to the 'years of hurt', not that I care much.
anything can happen in this World cup. Howard looked good the other night. But then he wasnt having to save goals from Ronaldo, let alone Muller or Klose. However Ronaldo doesn't look like he is getting the support so fingres crossed. Would love the USA to beat that slimy looking git. as for germany not crushing you................ best of luck and hope they use lube . Unless Italy beat Costa and Uraguay 4-0 to reduce their goal difference. England are well and truely out, but I had little hope for them anyway if im honest.
England aren't out yet... if Italy beat Uruguay and Costa Rica, and England beat Costa Rica with a better goal difference, we're second in the group and we'll go into the round of 16. Hanging in there by the skin of our teeth
Seeing as England lost twice, I think they are out and should be out.
What a pity. Overpaid prima donnas (don't) strike again, add four more to the 'years of hurt', not that I care much.
Well, England are, by definition, not out. It's mostly out of their hands, sure, but they're not out. And they should not be out. They played decently in both games and the fact that they lost both was bad luck.
England's form was awful and lacked energy in this game, they were outclassed by Uruguay. Their defence was very poor to have not picked up Saurez's run to the second goal.
To all the Rooney haters though, I hope your mouths are firmly shut seeing as he was the only decent player in that game, gets a goal and tried hard to make chances even though he was man-marked.
Tyranid Horde wrote: England's form was awful and lacked energy in this game, they were outclassed by Uruguay. Their defence was very poor to have not picked up Saurez's run to the second goal. To all the Rooney haters though, I hope your mouths are firmly shut seeing as he was the only decent player in that game, gets a goal and tried hard to make chances even though he was man-marked.
England really wasn't that poor. Baines and Johnson both played well, Sturridge and Sterling made some good runs and Rooney was all over the place in a good way. Only poor performance was Jagielka, Hart and Welbeck for me. The rest was just not playing to their strengths (one vs one dribbling runs with Sturridge and Sterling, wing play etc.) and the same problem they had vs Italy with the finishing in the box. Think if Rooney had scored that header or that free kick, or if Gerrard hadn't headed that ball, or Jagielka had marked Suarez more closely, people would be making far less criticisms.
I've always defended Rooney- he's definitely not one of the best players in the world, but he's a damned good option to have, gives 100% every match and is a very well rounded player- good at passing, running, dribbling, shooting and heading. Just seems to not click for him in world cup finals. I think from a managerial perspective, points to improve would be: - Caulker should be playing. - Terry or Cole should be in to give a bit of international experience to the back line. - They need to utilise the strengths of Lallana and Sterling. - Barkley needs to play more, very reliable and fearless, not let down the team once. - Need to give Forster a chance, Hart can be very inconsistent. - Welbeck straight up isn't that good. In my opinion, he's basically a slightly worse Sturridge. There's better options out there (Barkley, Lambert, Defoe).
I know it's always pretty easy to beat up on the referee, but if he would have handed out that second yellow this game would probably been in England's favor.
An observation: I'm becoming more and more convinced that the British play-by-play/color commentary guys get some sort of check every time they use the word "quality."
I'm actually very optimistic about the US' chances. They won't beat Germany, but I don't think Portugal's going to be the hurdle everyone else does. It's Ronaldo and 10 other guys, basically. The Germans played well against the Portuguese, but they were helped by the Portuguese not playing well at all. I think the US can beat them.
Or to put it another way...I believe that we will win. (And that's a Navy chant, you usurpers.)
Seaward wrote:An observation: I'm becoming more and more convinced that the British play-by-play/color commentary guys get some sort of check every time they use the word "quality."
I'm actually very optimistic about the US' chances. They won't beat Germany, but I don't think Portugal's going to be the hurdle everyone else does. It's Ronaldo and 10 other guys, basically. The Germans played well against the Portuguese, but they were helped by the Portuguese not playing well at all. I think the US can beat them.
Or to put it another way...I believe that we will win. (And that's a Navy chant, you usurpers.)
Portugal do have some other very decent players- pepe, bruno alves, joao moutinho, raul meireles, varela, nani... not world class to the standard germany and italy have, but still very good in their own right. Though yeah, their game plan really needs to change from "pass to ronaldo until he scores". It's clearly not going to work, they need to function as a team better.
Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida are injured, and it looks like Ronaldo might actually be out as well. Peps is suspended for his red card against Germany.
The US has every opportunity to tie, if not flat out win, this game.
I was disappointed in the England loss yesterday. I watched them play Italy, and thought they did a respectable job against a very strong team. They ironically need Italy's help to make it out of the group stage and (probably) a crushing win in their last match to have the point differential. We'll see.
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d-usa wrote: Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida are injured, and it looks like Ronaldo might actually be out as well. Peps is suspended for his red card against Germany.
The US has every opportunity to tie, if not flat out win, this game.
kronk wrote:I was disappointed in the England loss yesterday. I watched them play Italy, and thought they did a respectable job against a very strong team. They ironically need Italy's help to make it out of the group stage and (probably) a crushing win in their last match to have the point differential. We'll see.
Automatically Appended Next Post:
d-usa wrote: Fabio Coentrao and Hugo Almeida are injured, and it looks like Ronaldo might actually be out as well. Peps is suspended for his red card against Germany.
The US has every opportunity to tie, if not flat out win, this game.
I'll take it!
Yeah, both England games could easily have been draws, and no one would think it undeserved. I think it ends up that they need Italy and themselves to beat costa rica by a total of four goals, so two 2-0 wins would be enough. Italy could well do that, but England... I dunno. Maybe.
And yeah, I reckon it'll be an interesting game, Portugal vs USA, I'm just saying neither side should underestimate the other
Seaward wrote: An observation: I'm becoming more and more convinced that the British play-by-play/color commentary guys get some sort of check every time they use the word "quality."
I'm actually very optimistic about the US' chances. They won't beat Germany, but I don't think Portugal's going to be the hurdle everyone else does. It's Ronaldo and 10 other guys, basically. The Germans played well against the Portuguese, but they were helped by the Portuguese not playing well at all. I think the US can beat them.
Or to put it another way...I believe that we will win. (And that's a Navy chant, you usurpers.)
I would be delighted to see the USA do well in a "real" world competition.
Also, thinking about it, at least we're relying on Italy instead of someone like Honduras. The only team I can think of which we'd stand a better chance relying on is the Krauts.
I think I speak for every Englishman (and any English women) when I say we should be gnashing our teeth and knocking back litres of vodka, but we're so used to this every two years, that now, we just shrug our shoulders.
The US and England always seem like complete opposites.
England really should be able to do well in every contest, but somehow they don't. And the English don't seem to expect much from the team and deal with the result in the same way they always do.
The US is always the underdog, but US fans always act like there is no reason why we shouldn't go home with the trophy. Confederation Cup? Let's win it! World Cup? Let's win it? UEFA Cup? Let's win it!
It's like our team and fans don't know that we shouldn't win and somehow they just do it anyway.
Automatically Appended Next Post: Looks like the first Referee (or Linesman) has been kicked out of the World Cup. The guy that called the two off-sides against Mexico during their first match is no more and has been replaced.
Well, looks like England are out. I'm not really surprised, due to inflated wages, big egos and poor management, English football has been really going downhill.
MetalOxide wrote:Well, looks like England are out. I'm not really surprised, due to inflated wages, big egos and poor management, English football has been really going downhill.
I find that the Netherlands are doing quite well.
big egos really isn't a factor. With the exception of Wilshere and Sturridge, no one on the England squad lost possession or conceded a goal due to arrogance. Lapse in concentration, sure, but not "look at me I can take on the entire defense" or "hey guys look at this sweet volleyed backheel when I have plenty of time to just turn and pass".
Also, inflated wages has no impact on how a team plays besides perhaps leading to aforementioned arrogance.
Poor management I'd agree with you. Hodgson put too many youths in the back line (Cole and Terry would have done wonders), not enough in the midfield (Lallana and Barkley starting could have given the midfield some fresh enthusiasm and speed) and not enough variation in the strike force (Welbeck, Sturridge and Sterling are all pretty similar- based around pace and dribbling. Throwing in a target man or poacher like Crouch, Defoe or Lambert would have done well) and he should have altered the tactics to fit the team, using dribbling and pace down the wings, incisive passing from the midfield and a bit of creativity from the strikers in and around the box.
And the Netherlands are absolutely brilliant when going forward, but they have the same problem as Argentina- they don't have the most solid of defenses.
As a major rugby fan... this Germany/Ghana game is actually something to watch, at least parts of it... And from what I've seen (admittedly little enough) there's not been that much diving/flopping.
It just means that they won't have enough points to automatically advance. If they would have won today, and the US tied tomorrow, then they would have had enough points to make it through no matter what.
Germany didn't qualify yet, but they are not out either.
I think that since the US did better than the UK they should have to call the game soccer until the next series. Whoever does better gets to pick the terminology.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I hope Portugal beat the USA tonight. Why? Because I had money on Ghana beating the USA, but those pesky Americans won that game and cost me money!
I want revenge! I want American blood! I want American flesh!
d-usa wrote: Germany - Ghana also had a minimal amount of diving going on it seeemed, that was always appreciated. Both sides seemed to play to their limits.
I heavily disagree. The German defense was very lacking in the recent game with both goals being major mistakes that a tier A team just cannot afford. Their second goal was quite lucky so overall, they under-performed and should be happy with the draw.
d-usa wrote: Germany - Ghana also had a minimal amount of diving going on it seeemed, that was always appreciated. Both sides seemed to play to their limits.
I heavily disagree. The German defense was very lacking in the recent game with both goals being major mistakes that a tier A team just cannot afford. Their second goal was quite lucky so overall, they under-performed and should be happy with the draw.
But they played hard.
I'm not saying that they didn't play stupid at times. Lahm didn't make too many mistakes IMO, but the ones he did make really bit us in the ass big time. But all together the game was physical and hard fought IMO.
Albatross wrote: Does anyone remember a couple of pages ago when I said the Germans shouldn't underestimate the remaining teams in their group?
After seeing Argentina - Iran (which I thought was surely a done deal, if there ever was one), really it has proven that there are no easy matches for any of the teams. This World Cup has proven to be nothing if unpredictable!
Thought Ghana played fantastically well and thoroughly deserved that result, and could actually have easily been a win for them.
Really fun game in any case, probably most enjoyable one to watch of the WC so far.
Why the USA are my team for the rest of the world cup: Despite the late disappointment of an equaliser, the Yanks actually showed desire and passion, worked hard for the shirt and for each other. They don't have a team packed with big-name talent, but what they do have is an actual TEAM. Contrast their performances so far with the abject display (and early exit) of our preening primadonnas... Yeah.
Don't get me wrong, I'm England first and foremost, but now we're out I'm backing the Yanks. GO USA!
Ronaldo won't defend, couldn't stay onside, and couldn't hit the goal. Once he quit being a selfish ass they got the equalizer.
Automatically Appended Next Post: The next four days are going to be very exciting:
16 teams advance. Only 7 teams are guaranteed to make it through at this time, and only 5 teams are already mathematically eliminated.
So 20 teams will be fighting for the remaining 9 spots, which will be very exciting!
It is also the worst-case scenario for my divided loyalties!
Automatically Appended Next Post: So here is the breakdown of Group G:
The US and Germany still have the best shot at making it through, but here are the scenarious.
Germany:
-If Germany wins or ties, they advance.
-If Germany loses and Ghana and Portugal draw, they advance.
-If Germany loses and Ghana or Portugal wins, Germany advances unless there is a huge impact on the goal differential in the final games. Germany is sitting on +4, Ghana on -1, Portugal -4.
So everything is still looking fairly good for Germany.
USA:
- If the USA wins or ties, they advance.
- If the US loses and Ghana and Portugal draw, they advance.
- If the US loses and Portugal wins, the US advances unless there is still a pretty significant impact on the goal differential in the final games.
- If the US loses and Ghana wins, then things look a little bit more shaky. The US only has a 2 goal lead in differential which brings us to the tie breakers:
- If the US loses by more than one or Ghana wins by more than one, then the US is eliminated.
- If the US loses by one and Ghana wins by one, then it goes to the next tie breaker: total goals scored. The US only has a one goal lead on Ghana. So a 0-1 loss for the US and a 1-0 win for Ghana would have the US advance. But a 0-1 loss and a 2-1 win for Ghana would have the US eliminated.
- If the US loses by one and Ghana wins by one, and both are tied for total goals scored: the US will advance because they beat Ghana head to head.
So the US still has a fairly decent shot, but there is still an opportunity for Ghana and Portugal to steal this.
Going to be an exciting Thursday. Also, you know Portugal is gonna play crazy, they have a lot of goals they need to score. Hopefully (for the sake of Germany and USA), they end up having a close game with Ghana.
Portugal - you let me down big time! I wanted the Americans crushed, beaten, hulled, grilled, electrocuted, smashed, broken...yeah I've got a thesaurus
I will have my vengeance, even if it means supporting Germany
They task me, they task me, but I shall have them. I'll chase them round the Rockies, down the grand canyon and through perdition's flame before I give them up!
KHANNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!
Anyway, tonight's predictions: Holland to win, Croatia to win.
Sigvatr wrote: Both the US and Germany are too manly to do this, though.
Agreed, this will never happen. It will be incredibly nice if it does though ;p.
This whole thing is hilarious to me though. Before the game all I wanted was at least a point for the usmnt, after the game I can't help but feel dismayed about that point though. Such is life and hopefully Portugal and Ghana draw or Portugal wins by a point. Although how incredible for us soccer would it be if usa beat Germany and made a significant run at the cup.
Sigvatr wrote: Both the US and Germany are too manly to do this, though.
Agreed, this will never happen. It will be incredibly nice if it does though ;p.
This whole thing is hilarious to me though. Before the game all I wanted was at least a point for the usmnt, after the game I can't help but feel dismayed about that point though. Such is life and hopefully Portugal and Ghana draw or Portugal wins by a point. Although how incredible for us soccer would it be if usa beat Germany and made a significant run at the cup.
Sigvatr wrote: Both the US and Germany are too manly to do this, though.
Agreed, this will never happen. It will be incredibly nice if it does though ;p.
This whole thing is hilarious to me though. Before the game all I wanted was at least a point for the usmnt, after the game I can't help but feel dismayed about that point though. Such is life and hopefully Portugal and Ghana draw or Portugal wins by a point. Although how incredible for us soccer would it be if usa beat Germany and made a significant run at the cup.
It does make me think that perhaps it would be better to play the final group games simultaneously, just as the final league games are.
They do play the final games simultaneously. It would be great if the played out a draw but I think the Germans will want a win just so it's a more confident group stage for them and Muller's going for top goal scorer.
Sigvatr wrote: Both the US and Germany are too manly to do this, though.
Agreed, this will never happen. It will be incredibly nice if it does though ;p.
This whole thing is hilarious to me though. Before the game all I wanted was at least a point for the usmnt, after the game I can't help but feel dismayed about that point though. Such is life and hopefully Portugal and Ghana draw or Portugal wins by a point. Although how incredible for us soccer would it be if usa beat Germany and made a significant run at the cup.
It does make me think that perhaps it would be better to play the final group games simultaneously, just as the final league games are.
They do play the final games simultaneously. It would be great if the played out a draw but I think the Germans will want a win just so it's a more confident group stage for them and Muller's going for top goal scorer.
I agree Germany is gonna want to come out like gangbusters to bring some momentum into the elimination rounds. I also think the history of Germany playing for the tie thing is a main reason it won't happen as an "agreement winkwinknudgenudge" thing. They won't want to suffer that sort of worldwide criticism again.
kronk wrote: That was a tough tie to take, with the score coming so late.
But I felt the US played very well. Germany will be a tough opponent. Can't wait!
To be fair, the US looked downright pitiful in the opening 8 minutes or so, likely due to jitters.
They settled down well though, and overall played a much, much better game than their opener against Ghana.
Still, we all know that deep down Canada would clobber the competition and run away with the cup if we were there! (for highest alcohol content that is...)
But if somebody gets elbowed with the mouth open he will "bite" even if he doesn't do it on purpose.
He's reacted badly to that high elbow as he was running in.
I think the Chiellini/Suarez incident showed both in a poor light. I doubt Suarez bit him as Chiellini seemed to be implying.
The Italian player indicated that but it didn't look like he did
Suarez deliberately ran into an Italian defender who elbowed him in the face, both should have been sent off
I genuinely don't understand these comments. Granted, I wasn't watching the game (watching the England-Costa Rica match), but they showed the replays and such after the game and it definitely looks like a bite to me. Suarez definitely jabbed his mouth at Chiellini's shoulder, who immediately went down grabbing it, and then Suarez hit the deck trying to act like he was hit in the teeth (despite replays showing that Chiellini wasn't moving). As for the "high elbow", that was high torso level, perfectly normal to see in the box when the defender's trying to keep his mark from shoving past. Happens at basically every corner kick I've ever seen, nothing even deserving a harsh word, let alone a bite. If it was something more akin to Godin swinging his forearm at Sturridge's throat in the Uruguay/England game, maybe there'd be some incentive. As is, it was practically unprovoked for me.
I've not managed to find a video with the zoomed in side-view, which is the most damning angle, but here's one:
End of this one shows a side view, he clearly turns and darts his mouth at the guys shoulder. The fake diving bs after is icing on the cake of "You're a witch".
Medium of Death wrote: It certainly looks like the initial elbow hits Suarez in his neck/chin. Might be the height difference rather than malicious intent.
It's amazing the furore that has emerged over this incident when considering the general conduct of footballers.
What's amazing to me is that the general conduct of footballers is not only tolerated, but seemingly condoned. Diving is such a scummy thing to do and anyone doing it should face a ban.
It's amazing the furore that has emerged over this incident when considering the general conduct of footballers.
Whats pretty funny to me is comparing this sort of incident, and when you hear about it in another internationally played sport, say for example, Rugby... The two players involved usually shakes hands post-match, or grab beers together or something more amicable as they both realize that they were "in the heat of the moment"
Medium of Death wrote: If they can review this incident I don't know what stops them from reviewing dodgy disallowed goals etc.
It's literally Sepp Blatter, the head of FIFA. Basically everyone else wants it- Managers, Players, Coaches, Refs, Fans, Pundits - and I'm yet to hear a single reasonable argument as to why not.
And FIFA will definitely give him a several match ban, and I'm hoping kick him out of the tournament altogether. No excuse for it, unprovoked, he's got a history and it's basically assault.
Plus, on a personal note, the dude's a massive donkey-cave.
Medium of Death wrote: It certainly looks like the initial elbow hits Suarez in his neck/chin. Might be the height difference rather than malicious intent.
It's amazing the furore that has emerged over this incident when considering the general conduct of footballers.
Not many other players are running about biting people . Chiellini's arm was at a normal height and Suarez ran into it no excuse to bite him, if I bit someone in the street I'd be in jail.
It's amazing the furore that has emerged over this incident when considering the general conduct of footballers.
Whats pretty funny to me is comparing this sort of incident, and when you hear about it in another internationally played sport, say for example, Rugby... The two players involved usually shakes hands post-match, or grab beers together or something more amicable as they both realize that they were "in the heat of the moment"
If it was a one off heat of the moment might be an excuse, but this is the third time he has bitten another player, that isn't heat of the moment that's something wrong in his head.
Frankly given his past conduct, i would ban him from football for life.
In virtually any other sport repeated offences of this type would result in a lifetime ban.
They were talking about this during the Japan/Colombia match... The commentators (presumably from the UK) were worried about him getting away with this, as apparently FIFA has never had to ban a player for the same infraction more than twice
Personally, I think that they should strongly look at a lifetime ban from ALL international level soccer.
Ivory coast defender sticks a leg in the way of Samaras as he goes for a shot, causing Samaras to kick the leg of the defender which alters the path of his foot enough to kick the ground. Not the most blatant foul, but it wasn't fabricated. The defender jabbing a leg in the way before the ball even came to him still stopped Samaras from shooting, thus technically denying a goalscoring opportunity by hitting the player instead of the ball. If it was outside of the box, a foul would have been given and no one would think it remotely wrong. It's just unfortunate placement for the Ivory Coast , and a decision which was a 50/50 toss between awarding a legit foul to Greece and dealing no punishment for what was a foul, but also harsh to give a penalty.
edit: pretty clear penalty to me, looking at this angle:
I think the issue is with the referee, who is probably knackered himself and out of breath, having to make a split second decision on something that is happening a way away from him and nearly always not within a clear line of sight.
It's why so many of the players look like they have attended the Rada with the flamboyance of their reactions, as though they have received a gunshot wound as they head towards the floor. The final ten minutes of that game was a joke, every time a greek player came within 1m of an Ivory Coast player, the Greek would be rolling around on the floor and the referee must have worn out his whistle.
But, that's an issue I have with the sport in general, and the decision to be 20 years behind practically every other sport in employing video technology, rather than this particular instance. Personally, I agree the Greek player's foot snagged the Ivory Coast players leg, but he then kicked himself and reacted as though he had been pole-axed by a 300lb linebacker/prop forward - and I'm guessing that's what the referee was probably basing his judgement on.
Pacific wrote: I think the issue is with the referee, who is probably knackered himself and out of breath, having to make a split second decision on something that is happening a way away from him and nearly always not within a clear line of sight.
It's why so many of the players look like they have attended the Rada with the flamboyance of their reactions, as though they have received a gunshot wound as they head towards the floor. The final ten minutes of that game was a joke, every time a greek player came within 1m of an Ivory Coast player, the Greek would be rolling around on the floor and the referee must have worn out his whistle.
But, that's an issue I have with the sport in general, and the decision to be 20 years behind practically every other sport in employing video technology, rather than this particular instance. Personally, I agree the Greek player's foot snagged the Ivory Coast players leg, but he then kicked himself and reacted as though he had been pole-axed by a 300lb linebacker/prop forward - and I'm guessing that's what the referee was probably basing his judgement on.
As I said I didn't watch the game, but from the video of Samaras hitting the dirt he really isn't making it dramatic. He's a 6' 4" guy who's tripped whilst sprinting, hits the deck, immediately rolls up to his knees and calls for a (legit) penalty. He wasn't brushed by a player and rolled around on the ground clutching his leg, he had a perfectly reasonable response.
Look at 0:24 here:
or here: He's been clattered into whilst running, there was absolutely no way he could do anything there to stay up. Perfectly legit decision and Samaras, for me, wasn't milking it in the slightest.
That was legit in my eyes. How the presenter can say "it doesn't look like he touches him" while it's showing the behind look with a straight face is fething unbelievable.
MrDwhitey wrote: That was legit in my eyes. How the presenter can say "it doesn't look like he touches him" while it's showing the behind look with a straight face is fething unbelievable.
yeah, from the first angle I can see why he'd mostly see Samaras kicking his heel, but the second angle shows that it's blatantly a foul.
I've got a tenner on the Germans winning this by two. If the Amerikaners win, I will exact my revenge upon them by setting fire to my Flames of War Shermans
Automatically Appended Next Post:
MrDwhitey wrote: That was legit in my eyes. How the presenter can say "it doesn't look like he touches him" while it's showing the behind look with a straight face is fething unbelievable.
It's world cup commentary - it's not supposed to make sense
2-2 tie! (Because it just makes too much sense for both sides) Just glad this game is at 12est and not 6. Don't think I could handle waiting all day for it. USA USA USA!!!
-- Luis Suarez has been banned for nine international matches and suspended for four months from any football activity by FIFA.
The Liverpool striker is also set to miss a large chunk of the English Premier season and is "banned from any football related activity."
The ban is the most severe ever handed out at a World Cup but the striker does have the right to appeal.
FIFA said Wednesday that it has begun proceedings after the striker was accused of biting another player during his team's World Cup victory over Italy a day earlier
...
FIFA also confirmed that Suarez is "prohibited from entering the confines of any stadium" during his ban and must pay a fine of 100,000 Swiss Francs -- $111,000.
Congrats on the US getting through! Wonderful team effort and discipline, they completely deserve it. I love that the team seem so hungry for the win.
And, I think they have a chance against Belgium, who haven't really come up to expectation so far. Korea rattled them this evening, and with a team that's got some better finishers, and prepared to have a similar work rate, I wouldn't be surprised at all if we had an 'upset' in the final 16.
-- Luis Suarez has been banned for nine international matches and suspended for four months from any football activity by FIFA.
The Liverpool striker is also set to miss a large chunk of the English Premier season and is "banned from any football related activity."
The ban is the most severe ever handed out at a World Cup but the striker does have the right to appeal.
FIFA said Wednesday that it has begun proceedings after the striker was accused of biting another player during his team's World Cup victory over Italy a day earlier
...
FIFA also confirmed that Suarez is "prohibited from entering the confines of any stadium" during his ban and must pay a fine of 100,000 Swiss Francs -- $111,000.
He should have been banned for at least 2 full years, if not banned for life. What the hell ever happened to the age old notion of '3 strikes and you're out?'
I mean what gives here, how many times does he have to bite opponents until enough is enough?
Only in football are you actively rewarded for appalling sportsmanship.
d-usa wrote: FIFA said Wednesday that it has begun proceedings after the striker was accused of biting another player during his team's World Cup victory over Italy a day earlier
...
FIFA also confirmed that Suarez is "prohibited from entering the confines of any stadium" during his ban and must pay a fine of 100,000 Swiss Francs -- $111,000.
He should have been banned for at least 2 full years, if not banned for life. What the hell ever happened to the age old notion of '3 strikes and you're out?'
I mean what gives here, how many times does he have to bite opponents until enough is enough?
Only in football are you actively rewarded for appalling sportsmanship.
I agree with you on the harsher banning thing, but players aren't rewarded for appalling sportsmanship. Just like every other sport, if you're caught, you get punished and if you aren't, you're not. The only difference is that unless it's an act of violence (like spitting, hitting, racial abuse etc.) they don't use camera replays.
When did the English, the Italians, the Portuguese, and the Spanish become so bad at soccer? I thought this was a game you guys took seriously, unlike us.
Seaward wrote: When did the English, the Italians, the Portuguese, and the Spanish become so bad at soccer? I thought this was a game you guys took seriously, unlike us.
I'd argue that you're only taking it seriously because you now have someone to lord over with it
but seriously, Portugal's never been great (take away Ronaldo and they're a very average team), Spain god knows what happened to, it's basically the same squad as the world cup winning one last time round, Italy are just getting a tad old and need a bit of young talent in the midfield and defense, and England were never gonna do amazing this world cup due to the massive amount of inexperience in the squad (though the way they played they did deserve to get into the next round, two 2-1 losses in games where England created the most chances).
d-usa wrote: FIFA said Wednesday that it has begun proceedings after the striker was accused of biting another player during his team's World Cup victory over Italy a day earlier
...
FIFA also confirmed that Suarez is "prohibited from entering the confines of any stadium" during his ban and must pay a fine of 100,000 Swiss Francs -- $111,000.
He should have been banned for at least 2 full years, if not banned for life. What the hell ever happened to the age old notion of '3 strikes and you're out?'
I mean what gives here, how many times does he have to bite opponents until enough is enough?
Only in football are you actively rewarded for appalling sportsmanship.
I agree with you on the harsher banning thing, but players aren't rewarded for appalling sportsmanship. Just like every other sport, if you're caught, you get punished and if you aren't, you're not. The only difference is that unless it's an act of violence (like spitting, hitting, racial abuse etc.) they don't use camera replays.
I'm sorry but all the diving the players do whenever they so much as get slightly bumped by an opposing player is just plain ludicrous. Purposely diving and over embellishing the way footballers do is pretty scummy.
Pretty much every other team sport you get a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, or else the official just warns your to stop acting like a gakker.
Remember Rivaldo? Yes it was wrong of the Turkish player to kick the ball at him, (as Turkey rightly believed they should have has a goal kick instead of a Brazilian corner kick), the ball hits Rivaldo in the knees, he waits a second, and then grabs his face & falls to the ground and begins writhing in mock agony in order to get the Turkish player red carded.
Disgusting way to play!
As much as I really try to enjoy watching football come the World Cup or Euro Cup, I simply can't help by fall over laughing at the silliness of grown men acting like a bunch of whiny crybabies.
No other sport tolerates that kind of behavior from players, and FIFA needs to start clamping down big time on the embellishing crap as it does ruin the sport.
As for Italy being knocked out, we got royally screwed over big time by the officiating!
d-usa wrote: FIFA said Wednesday that it has begun proceedings after the striker was accused of biting another player during his team's World Cup victory over Italy a day earlier
...
FIFA also confirmed that Suarez is "prohibited from entering the confines of any stadium" during his ban and must pay a fine of 100,000 Swiss Francs -- $111,000.
He should have been banned for at least 2 full years, if not banned for life. What the hell ever happened to the age old notion of '3 strikes and you're out?'
I mean what gives here, how many times does he have to bite opponents until enough is enough?
Only in football are you actively rewarded for appalling sportsmanship.
I agree with you on the harsher banning thing, but players aren't rewarded for appalling sportsmanship. Just like every other sport, if you're caught, you get punished and if you aren't, you're not. The only difference is that unless it's an act of violence (like spitting, hitting, racial abuse etc.) they don't use camera replays.
I'm sorry but all the diving the players do whenever they so much as get slightly bumped by an opposing player is just plain ludicrous. Purposely diving and over embellishing the way footballers do is pretty scummy.
Pretty much every other team sport you get a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, or else the official just warns your to stop acting like a gakker.
Remember Rivaldo? Yes it was wrong of the Turkish player to kick the ball at him, (as Turkey rightly believed they should have has a goal kick instead of a Brazilian corner kick), the ball hits Rivaldo in the knees, he waits a second, and then grabs his face & falls to the ground and begins writhing in mock agony in order to get the Turkish player red carded.
Disgusting way to play!
As much as I really try to enjoy watching football come the World Cup or Euro Cup, I simply can't help by fall over laughing at the silliness of grown men acting like a bunch of whiny crybabies.
No other sport tolerates that kind of behavior from players, and FIFA needs to start clamping down big time on the embellishing crap as it does ruin the sport.
As for Italy being knocked out, we got royally screwed over big time by the officiating!
So, like I said, they're not getting rewarded, they either get away with conning the ref or they don't. It's not "oh, you dived, have a free kick", it's "oh, to me it looks like you were fouled, have a free kick."
All FIFA need to do is use cameras and it'll be like every other sport. That's literally the only difference.
. US pales in comparison of soccor match riots to you UKers 
Brazil has an abundance of natural resources.
A! 
