Official World Cup Thread

[AwesomeArcher]

HAHAHAHA!

Italy - 1 (what a goal)

Ghana - 0

We'll see how this pans out.

:jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:

Yea, i just saw them score, it was pretty sweet.

Yea, the U.S. got kicked, but they started out slow and gave up an early goal. It wasnt so much the czechs won the game, it was the U.S. who lost the game. Hopefully this will wake them up and get them going.

[Idaho]

The US were a real dissapointment. What were they doing passing the ball round the back and keeping possession when they were 2 down?

[Alexanderofmacedon]

2-0


:jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:

[scotchedpommes]

I won't celebrate for Italy, and I have to disagree with the the suggestion that
the Czechs are the best side so far - as much as it pains me, I think from what
we've seen, Argentina still looks to be the best side.

[Boohugh]

Notice they got 10 offsides or so? It's a clear indication of that they were using the effective near-offside long pass + breakaway attempt tactics.

I disagree, many of those offsides occurred later on when they were playing long balls, yes, but they were aimed at Koller's replacement, their big man Lokvenc who was there to hold up the ball and pass it on, not to break quickly. It was actually due to his bad positioning much of the time that he kept being caught offside.

As for the Italy-Ghana match, Ghana looked like a fast, powerful team but were unfortunately let down by a bit of defensive naivety. I was impressed how they really went at the Italians, and I feel the game could still have gone either way until Italy got the second goal late on.

[Mithrandir]

2-0


:jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:
:laugh4:

[Louis VI the Fat]

What a shame Koller is out for the rest of the tournament. The Czechs are awesome, and just as two years ago in Portugal, the most exciting team to watch.

They have taken over the spot traditionally occupied by Holland: a gathering of amazingly gifted players playing a thrilling game of attacking football.

The US had no chance. Italy will prove to be too strong too.

There should really be a pan-American cup. The way it is now, Mexico and the US only ever get tested against each other. They should play the likes of Argentina, Chili, or Uruguay on a regular basis if they ever want to really improve their game.

[Louis VI the Fat]

QUID!

Sleep well tonight - for you won't be able to get any tomorrow after the right good spanking we're gonna give Switzerland. :charge:

Provided of course, that:

Henry and Zidane will cease their incessant in-fighting for 90 minutes
Barthez get's a last-minute injury so Coupet can take his rightful place in goal
That Zizou's miserable form is not owing to his age, but to him having spared himself for one last blast
That Thuram and Viera will not play as two geriatrics way beyond their prime like they have been lately
That astrology-freak Domenech will read the correct line-up in the stars

[scotchedpommes]

What a shame Koller is out for the rest of the tournament.

Seems he might not be, according to recent news (http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/060612/1/7gz6.html).

As for France, isn't Coupet your first choice keeper now?

[Louis VI the Fat]

Seems he might not be, according to recent news (http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/060612/1/7gz6.html).

:2thumbsup:


As for France, isn't Coupet your first choice keeper now?

Only in my dreams.~:mecry:

He played most of the qualifying matches. Barthez was ruled out for a long time after a spitting incident. But Domenech cowardly has decided to rely on his old guard for this world cup again. You know, the ones that did not manage to score even a single goal four years ago because they were too tired and too old. :wall:

The French squad is good, the talent is there. But something doesn't feel right. There is too much friction, and too much denial there is any. If they don't manage too perform well, I think there might be a massive revolt in the team. Between Zidane and Henry, Coupet and Domenech, Domenech and Trezeguet, the old guard and the new players. The whole thing looks set too collapse.

Really, if the Swiss get at France the way they can, the tournament could be over for France within twenty minutes. :skull:

Then again, a good ol' thrashing of our Alpine brethren may be just the ticket.

[Soulforged]

There should really be a pan-American cup. The way it is now, Mexico and the US only ever get tested against each other. They should play the likes of Argentina, Chili, or Uruguay on a regular basis if they ever want to really improve their game.
It has been in projects. But 1) They play a different kind of elimination, like the one in Europe. 2) Many of them, powerful nations, specially USA, would not qualify. 3) America is big, very big, in comparission to Europe, and it's not a matter of team quantity, but a matter of organization. For intance travel times would be great, the same with the changes on envioraments and climatic conditions. 4) It's hard to break traditions.

Anyway, great games, I didn't see any since Argentina vs IC, until the one with Italy today so I cannot say much about them. However the result on USA vs CR did surprised me, I knew US will lose but 3-0... One more reason to fear CR, though they lost Koller, they got Varos (it's with "V" right, I don't want to spell it wrong), it would be interesting to see CR advance to quarters.

[Strike For The South]

Go Germany!!!!!!!! Im amazingly dissapointed but I watched every single match. Even Aus-Jap at 8 in the morning which was the best soccer game Ive ever seen. I hope Brazil gets knocked out. Can anyone tell me about the Dutch? The guy who scored the goal Robben is he a little diva or something?

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Go Germany!!!!!!!! Im amazingly dissapointed but I watched every single match. Even Aus-Jap at 8 in the morning which was the best soccer game Ive ever seen. I hope Brazil gets knocked out. Can anyone tell me about the Dutch? The guy who scored the goal Robben is he a little diva or something?

I thought I knew you and you say something like this...

...and totally redeem yourself!

I'm a 100% German backer. Then comes Italy for me. I could care less if the USA lost to the Czech's 3-0. Hell, if it were 6-0 I'd be happy.:laugh4:

[Strike For The South]

Every time the team I like scores (which today was Aussies Usa and Italy) I take off my shirt run round my house yelling GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLL

Im wearing a mexico jersey right now vhehe

[scotchedpommes]

Highlights (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l38cyVflRmQ) of the second half of the Australia match with
over-enthusiastic Arabic commentary. [I like.]

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Every time the team I like scores (which today was Aussies Usa and Italy) I take off my shirt run round my house yelling GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLL

Im wearing a mexico jersey right now vhehe

Well I will not say anything about the Mexico jersey (ick), but let me tell you. I was home alone today and whenever Italy missed a shot or got a goal I went crazy. My throat hurts pretty badly right now. When Italy got the second goal the trashmen were outside getting the trash and they waited there for like 2-3 minutes after they heard me screaming. I looked out the window and two of 'em were looking at my house.:laugh4:

Now let's hope they weren't looking at my house for any other reasons...:embarassed:

[Fragony]

Czech team annihilated USA which was to be expected, who can stop these guys? The most interesting match was Italy vs Ghana to me, great defence vs the armour piercing spear Ghana.

[Fragony]

Can anyone tell me about the Dutch? The guy who scored the goal Robben is he a little diva or something?

Robben is extremily talented, but he is only one of our great players. We have a pretty good team this time, I think only the Czech Republic and Brazil can beat us, but they will have to work.

ps, an american with world-cup fever??? excellent!!

[The Blind King of Bohemia]

Robben is a good player but he suffers from a disease, medically known as Nevercus Passecus Evercus. His greed really gets to me, the worst thing as that when he shoots he makes out that he came close.

I have no doubt holland and argentina will top the group, serbia and IC are good teams but don't have that extra bit of talent to see them beat the other teams. IC like Ghana and the other african teams have a good work rate but are not organised and couldn't score in a brothel

[InsaneApache]

Nice analogy BKB:2thumbsup:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Robben is extremily talented, but he is only one of our great players. We have a pretty good team this time, I think only the Czech Republic and Brazil can beat us, but they will have to work.

ps, an american with world-cup fever??? excellent!!

I'm american too and if you look at my posts, I've got fever coming out my ears. :2thumbsup:

Togo - 1 (awsome goal off the post)

Korea - 1 (awsome free kick)

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Togo - 1

Korea - 2

What a goal for Korea. He takes a fabulous shot and the goalie had no chance.

:jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:

I'm leaving to a friends house to watch the games, so you guys are lucky. No more obnoxious and excited posts from me for now. :-)

[Fragony]

NO! Togo and Australia are semi-dutch teams now (both dutch trainers) and they should do well just because of that!

grrrrrrrrrrr.......... can't........watch.....me......jealous......

[[DnC]]

Fragony. South Korea --->>> Dick Advocaat ~;)
Has that Dutch assistent coach returned to Togo as the German coach has? As far as I've heard he hasn't.

[Fragony]

']Fragony. South Korea --->>> Dick Advocaat ~;)
Has that Dutch assistent coach returned to Togo as the German coach has? As far as I've heard he hasn't.

I thought he went to Russia? So that means we have 4 dutch WC-teams, do we rock or do we rock?

[Dutch_guy]

You're confusing Hiddink with Dick Advocaat, Frag.

Hiddink 'll be coaching Russia when this WC is over.

:balloon2:

[[DnC]]

Guus Hiddink is going to coach Russia after this World Cup has ended ~:)

At first I didn't know Togo had a Dutch assistent coach, so that almost (if he hasn't returned that is) made it 4,5 ~:D

3 wins and 1 draw, pretty decent performance by the Dutch coached teams so far. RAR!

[Fragony]

You're confusing Hiddink with Dick Advocaat, Frag.

Hiddink 'll be coaching Russia when this WC is over.

:balloon2:

Owwwww, did I just mix up dutch world-cup trainers, shame on me but there are so many of them! Do we rock or do we rock??

[Dutch_guy]

Owwwww, did I just mix up dutch world-cup trainers, shame on me but there are so many of them! Do we rock or do we rock??

Well if you put it that way, I'd say we rock.

:balloon2:

[drone]

Holland: Total Football. :laugh4:

[LeftEyeNine]

Who said Oranges do not rock ?

[Louis VI the Fat]

:embarassed:

[Boohugh]

Oh dear Louis, I think France were very lucky to escape with a draw then :no:

[Divine Wind]

France were really poor...why oh why does your manager choose too play Wiltord? Hes rubbish. Playing Veira, Makelele and Zidane in the middle does not work with Henry either, he needs some attacking pacey player making forward runs so he can drift off too the flanks like he does for Arsenal.

[Louis VI the Fat]

France were really poor...why oh why does your manager choose too play Wiltord? Why? Because it's written in the stars, that's why. :wall:

Domenech is an astrology freak, who openly admits he bases his decisions on player's horoscope's. :furious3:

My left arm for Arsene Wenger.

[InsaneApache]

Deja vu pour le Francais? :inquisitive: :sweatdrop:

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Well, that Brazil game was rather dull. They're either so confident that they decided to take it easy for the first game, or not quite as on form as they're cracked up to be.

Mind you, they did win, of course, and Kaka's goal was cracking.

[x-dANGEr]

Anyone got a link on the goal please.. I can't watch WC here.. If I want to watch it I must pay 300$.. (Though, I will pay that for my dear Brazil, but still the service hasn't come).. A link please ~;)

[LeftEyeNine]

x-dANGEr, I can get you a Rapidshare link tomorrow.

By the way, I had predicted that Brazil would be a bit out of form as they are generally in the opening matches of these tournaments. The only difference today between Croatia and Brazil was that Croatia players directed all shots at Dida, while Kaka found the dead spot at once.

What I say for Croatia is a big GAH! however I still have hope that they will be qualifiying and progress through.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I'M BACK! :jumping:

Oh man, the France vs. Swiss game was amazing. I thought the Swiss (who I wanted to win) would come out on top, but no such luck.

Again with Brazil (wow Ronaldo sucks now), I wanted Croatia to win, but Brazil is good. I do think Croatia could have easily tied it up though.

Korea did real well to finish off Togo after going down. Good job Korea!

MY GERMANY PLAYS TOMMORROW AND THEY'RE GOING TO KICK SOME POLAND....WELL YOU KNOW

:jumping::jumping::jumping::jumping::jumping:

[Kralizec]

France vs Swiss was very entertaining.
8 yellow cards?! :dizzy2:

I also found the Brazi-Croatia match rather dull, so I stopped watching.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

France vs Swiss was very entertaining.
8 yellow cards?! :dizzy2:

I also found the Brazi-Croatia match rather dull, so I stopped watching.

How could you find it dull? That was an awsome game I thought. Well, I did want Croatia to win so I liked the prospect of very easily tieing as well as only losing by one.

And if you quit watching, you missed the last 20 minutes where Croatia got like 10 chances on goal. You missed the VERY un-dull part. :laugh4:

[Kralizec]

Could be. Well, I don't have time to watch 3 games on one day so if it doesn't look entertaining for 15 minutes in a row, I lose interest.

[Soulforged]

...(wow Ronaldo sucks now)... Stay focus on the next two matches, if Ronaldo starts doing well, as I'm sure he'll, and Adriano follows, then you'll be dancing zamba instead of jumping.:2thumbsup:

[scotchedpommes]

:no:

[Croatia should have won.]

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I wanted Croatia to win too.

I'm getting my Germany colors on right now. I've got red shirt, black pants and all I need is something yellow. Hmmm...

[scotchedpommes]

I'm getting my Germany colors on right now. I've got red shirt, black pants and all I need is something yellow. Hmmm...


Why? Don't go backing the wrong teams 90% of the time. ~;)
Was almost prepared to overlook support for the Italians
and more, but Germany is a step too far. Disheartening.

[Ah well, I shall shout for Polska all the more louder now.]

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Why? Don't go backing the wrong teams 90% of the time. ~;)
Was almost prepared to overlook support for the Italians
and more, but Germany is a step too far. Disheartening.

[Ah well, I shall shout for Polska all the more louder now.]

You think you can shout louder than I?

Good one.

[Fragony]

:embarassed:

nanananananaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaanaaaa tough luck mate :shame:

[Divine Wind]

I wonder whats wrong with Ronaldo these days. To me he just doesnt look match fit anymore. I remember back in the days when he was good, moving into space, picking the ball up and running at players, generally just getting involved with everything in attack. Now he just stands up front like the fat boy, who got told by his dad that hes coming off at half time.

He offers nothing!

I really thought Croatia deserved to win that game, they created more decent chances, although the game itself was a pretty dull affair.

What came from that though, is that Brazil are very vunerable at the back, and that will be a welcome sight too most teams.

[LeftEyeNine]

I wonder whats wrong with Ronaldo these days. To me he just doesnt look match fit anymore. I remember back in the days when he was good, moving into space, picking the ball up and running at players, generally just getting involved with everything in attack. Now he just stands up front like the fat boy, who got told by his dad that hes coming off at half time.

He offers nothing!

Sitting on your arse for 2 years because of an injury that nearly threatened his football life to end devastated his fitness. He still has the ability but looks like a taller Maradona in his 40's -not a football in shape, rather like an american football ball. He definitely needs challenge and fan support in his football club carreer. I think stepping down a team in Primera Liga or move to Premiership will vitalize his last years, a happier end would it be that way.

[InsaneApache]

I wonder whats wrong with Ronaldo these days. To me he just doesnt look match fit anymore. I remember back in the days when he was good, moving into space, picking the ball up and running at players, generally just getting involved with everything in attack. Now he just stands up front like the fat boy, who got told by his dad that hes coming off at half time.

He offers nothing!

Mr. rotund, corpulent, voluminous, chubby Ronnie boy ate all the pies.

As for a move to the EPL, who would take him on in that shape? Even 'big' Sam would have to wire his jaws up. (but then he'd only strain melted butter through his teeth) :laugh4:

[x-dANGEr]

It's just the strategy of Brazil.. Leave the 5 cities to the enemy, so he conquers them and stuffs his troops in them, to keep them in order. With that, the enemy forces will be stretched quite thin, so you take them out with a unit superior to it's opposite by a little more men.. What do you know about coaching.. ~:)

[Quid]

Am happy with the 0 - 0 of France and Switzerland. Could have won but at the same time we could have lost it in the last minute too. All is well. Most here were hoping for a draw anyway.

Poland - Germany is going to be interesting. Last chance for Poland and Germany under pressure finally facing real opposition. I am looking forward to their defense...

Quid

[naut]

Also looking forward to the Poland - Germany match, Although the Spain - Ukaine match could be a stunner!!!

IMO Czech Rep. have looked the most promising so far! Rosicky is AMAZING. I'm so glad Arsene Wenger bought him before the WC, saved lots of money doing that.

[LeftEyeNine]

x-dANGEr, boy, get your Croatia - Brazil highlight here !!!

Croatia - Brazil Rapidshare Link (http://rapidshare.de/files/22988211/Croatia-Brazil_0-1.rar.html)

[Dutch_guy]

Hoping Poland - Germany 'll be a good one !

Hope poland 'll be able to put up some kind of a fight, winning would surely make the group a whole lot more interesting - especially if Ecuador beats CRC !

As I only watched the first half of the Brazil - Croatia game, I have to say I'd overestimated Croatia, which isn't a good thing considering the fact that Brazil was probably playing at about 70 % of it's strength...

Luckily for them, they have players like Kaka who can turn the tide with one solo. Great shot by the way !

:balloon2:

[scotchedpommes]

I would still maintain that Croatia played better than Brazil. Considering their
only previous meeting [last year] was a draw, it was reasonable to expect them
to get more from the game.

Today though, the Ukraine have been on the end of some poor refereeing
decisions - and I'm glad to see that Spain just had what would have been their
fourth goal effectively ignored.


We've seen that Germany are nothing special in terms of their defence, so I
hope Poland can exploit their weaknesses.

[Big_John]

ukraine never got off the bus. that was easily the worst performance of the WC so far. wow.

the red card PK was also the single worst call of the WC so far. that ref should be fined for that. not that it mattered.. spain was always going to win this one, since the ukraine seemingly fielded a bunch of goat herders instead of a football team.


yikes.

[Dutch_guy]

However that my be, the fourth spanish goal was excellent !

:balloon2:

[Big_John]

speaking of excellent goals.. did you see the flying, twisting volley by jaziri?

tunisia is my sleeper pick. :wink:

edit: but the saudi's are looking pretty good.

edit2: so much for a sleeper pick.. saudis played a better game, though 2-2 is a fair result i think. very good game.. not as good as sweden/t&t but very entertaining i thought. great result for ukraine, interesting to see who gets second out of this group.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Wow! Injury time goal from Neuville in the Germany/Poland game! The Poles must be kicking themselves.

They should have won by a couple more though, missed a couple of great chances.

[scotchedpommes]

My hatred of the German national football team is now firmly cemented.

[cegorach]

Damn, the very last minute....

But honestly the Germans were unlucky to score so late. At least they were almost, almost, almost good enough to wear the bloody Husaria wings on their T-shirts, almost...

As usual not enough and far too late, still it is much better than 4 years ago.:wall:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

AHAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH :jumping::jumping::jumping::jumping:

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAa


THEY WON, THEY WON MY GERMANS WON!!!!!!:jumping::jumping::jumping:

NEUVILLE WITH THE GOAL!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH:jumping::jumping:

I CANT BELIEVE IT! I WAS SO MAD BEFORE!!!:jumping::jumping:

I ran outside screaming with my flag. Some maid was outside about to get into the car. I stopped her, asked her for a hug, and hugged her.:jumping:

I was watching the game with all my friends who wanted Poland to win (because they knew I was big time German fan).:jumping::jumping::jumping:

ON TO THE CUP!!!:jumping:

BALLACK IS BACK!!!:jumping:

I'll admit Poland did well, but that goal was long overdue. Germany hit two cross bars in one try. Insane. :jumping::jumping:

That's why I play the best sport in the world.:jumping::jumping::jumping::jumping:

[scotchedpommes]

As usual not enough and far too late, still it is much better than 4 years ago.:wall:

At least there was a win then.

[cegorach]

Costarica shouldn't be a challenge... besides Polish football team is very good at winning when it doesn't matter:shame: ...

At least there will be less jokes about them after this clash.:2thumbsup:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

DEUTSCHLAND ÜBER ALLES

Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, über alles in der Welt.

[x-dANGEr]

x-dANGEr, boy, get your Croatia - Brazil highlight here !!!

Croatia - Brazil Rapidshare Link (http://rapidshare.de/files/22988211/Croatia-Brazil_0-1.rar.html)
First of all, thank you, you didn't have to have the trouble. ~:)

Though, am getting this message:

You have requested the file Croatia-Brazil_0-1.rar (5403 KB). This file has been downloaded 380 times already.
IMPORTANT: Download-accelerators are only supported with a PREMIUM-Account!

Your IP-address xx.xxx.xx.xx is already downloading a file. You have to wait until it is finished.
Premium-accounts can download many files at the same time. Get your own Premium-Account now. Instant download-access!
If you are not downloading anything, you are using a proxy-server or a shared IP-address. A Premium-account solves this problem as well.

And no, am not DL-ing anything, and am the only one who's gaining internet from that modem.. Any idea?

[Kaiser of Arabia]

Yay for Germany! Good game, Poles, really, twas a tough one. Had me on the edge of my bed (was watching it in my room) at times. Smashing work.

[LeftEyeNine]

x-dANGEr, this can only happen if you are using a shared connection. If you have a wireless LAN, check if anyone hacked into your connection and exploiting it. If it is an ordinary LAN, I don't think you would not notice some other cable plugged into your modedm to share your connection where you reside.

[Ser Clegane]

Wow - what a match against Poland. We watched it in a crowded sportsbar (fanatastic atmosphere) and the last 20 minutes really had averybody on edge.

Good fight by Poland - but in the end they were just too tired and the deccicive goal was more than deserved and overdue.

I wouldn't say that our team was "great" but they were clearly very enthusiastic and driven by the homefield advantage ... let's see how far this motivation will carry them...

[naut]

Germany will lose to Equador though. Spain was impressive, bad call in the box by the ref.

Edit: I meant Germany not Poland!

[Rodion Romanovich]

Germany vs Poland - one of the best games so far! I was personally hoping Klinsmann would make a substitution to get Odonkor in the field - a fast guy was exactly what was needed to break through the Polish defense. He got a bad start but got better and better for every offensive, eventually making the extremely accurate pass to the 1-0 goal :2thumbsup:

[spmetla]

Loved the Germany Poland game. Was rooting for the Germans all the way, so glad when they finally made a goal. Was a bit disappointed in the Poles though, they played a good defense but they rarely tried to move the game into the German half of the field.

[Fragony]

Poor Polish, of course germany was meant to win but geez :no:

[Quid]

Germany will lose to Equador though. Spain was impressive, bad call in the box by the ref.



Red card was justified, in my opinion; those are the rules. It was, however, outseide the box and should not have been a penalty. Spain looked the strongest of all teams so far in the first round of play.

Good win for Germany (it really hurts to say that). Lucky in the end but well deserved. It shows that you needed a Swiss born player to score the decider, eh? :2thumbsup:

Quid

[naut]

No doubt about the red card. But, the majority foul I saw was commited outside the box.

[Ser Clegane]

My hatred of the German national football team is now firmly cemented.

What for? For winning when they were clearly the better team?

[[DnC]]

Red card was justified, in my opinion; those are the rules. It was, however, outseide the box and should not have been a penalty. Spain looked the strongest of all teams so far in the first round of play.

What? The ukrainian did nothing wrong. The spanish forward (Torres?) either fell because he misstepped/slipped or stepped on the ukrainian defenders boot (which is how it looked to me in the replay) which made him fall down. And the "foul" was made inside the penalty area :inquisitive:
Or was a foul commited before the penalty box that I hadn't seen?

Incredibly poor flagging and reffing though, simply unbelievable.
So many offsides that weren't offsides! Argh!

[DukeofSerbia]

Czech Republic is my secret favourite for winning WC.

Serbia can play much better, but team couch Petkovic choosed 100% wrong tactics against Holland with some wrong players.

[Dutch_guy]

Ah...as I didn't see the Poland - Germany game I wasn't really surprised they won, judging by their earlier performances.

All in all it's a bitter defeat for the Poles, a draw or even a Polish win would have made the group stage a lot more interesting.
Still, good job Germany!


What for? For winning when they were clearly the better team?

No, probably for scoring in the last minute and failing to do so earlier because they were the better team. They have had a long history of scoring in the last minute, and even more so with beating teams in that fashion when their adversaries were clearly better - even though from what I've read they were clearly better than the Poles in yesterdays match.



Serbia can play much better, but team couch Petkovic choosed 100% wrong tactics against Holland with some wrong players.

What would you have done, if you were the coach ?

:balloon2:

[Ser Clegane]

They have had a long history of scoring in the last minute, and even more so with beating teams in that fashion when their adversaries were clearly better - even though from what I've read they were clearly better than the Poles in yesterdays match.


Actually they haven't such a history:


This was the first ever World Cup victory for (West) Germany through an injury-time goal. Three times before, Germany have won a World Cup match with the winning goal being scored in the last five minutes. The last time this happened, Oliver Neuville was also the scorer. On 15 June 2002, Neuville's 88th minute goal gave Germany a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the second round.

BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/4852960.stm)

And as you said - they were clearly better (I don't think that Poland would have had reason to complain is the final score had been 3-0)

[Dutch_guy]

Originally Posted by BBC
This was the first ever World Cup victory for (West) Germany through an injury-time goal. Three times before, Germany have won a World Cup match with the winning goal being scored in the last five minutes. The last time this happened, Oliver Neuville was also the scorer. On 15 June 2002, Neuville's 88th minute goal gave Germany a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the second round.

OK, I'll give you that. I'll accept the fact this is the first time they actually scored in the last minute. Although my meaning was clear, as I was referring to the 3 times they scored in the last 5 minutes. Stealing a victory like that is just as cunning as it is undeserved. Please note that I am not talking about yesterdays match when I mentioned underserved win.


(I don't think that Poland would have had reason to complain is the final score had been 3-0)

Indeed you are right, now they can argue they were just as good as the Germans, but just lacked the fortune the Germans had. And that is also how such a late goal is perceived most of the time. But we just went over that.

A 3 - 0 on the other hand, says it all.

:balloon2:

[Ser Clegane]

Stealing a victory like that is just as cunning as it is undeserved.

How is scoring in the last 5 minutes "stealing a victory", "cunning" or "undeserved"?
Would you use the same words if it was the Dutch team that scored a winning goal during the last 5 minutes of a game (i.e., within the regular time - not quite sure what the last 5 minues are supposed to be used for if not for trying to win by scoring goals)?


now they can argue they were just as good as the Germans, but just lacked the fortune the Germans had.
Not if they had seen the game... (I wonder a bit on which basis you are making such statements if you haven't seen the game)

[Fragony]

Oh common, germany was the better team and they deserverd to win. I feel sorry for Poland to lose in such a way, but in the end I am glad Germany scored. Must have been that angel on the goal we temporarly borrowed them.

[Dutch_guy]

How is scoring in the last 5 minutes "stealing a victory", "cunning" or "undeserved"?


Well if a team, any team, is obviously the lesser one on the field and then manages to score a winning goal in the last 5 minutes of the game, I call that ''stealing a victory'' and the ensuing win ''underserved''. Germany has been the victim of this kind ilfortune, but has also done it a few times.

I do hope I made it clear that I wasn't talking about yesterdays game because I had not seen that game. I merely heard Germany was way better than Poland. And thus deserved to win. I was talking in a general sense.


Would you use the same words if it was the Dutch team that scored a winning goal during the last 5 minutes of a game (i.e., within the regular time - not quite sure what the last 5 minues are supposed to be used for if not for trying to win by scoring goals)?


If we were the lesser team, and scored in the last 5 minutes of the game - then yes, I would not consider that a great win and certainly underserved. I'm not argueing the last 5 minutes should be spent merely passing the ball round in the defence, but I did make it clear how I feel about a team who clearly steals a victory - in those last minutes. Again... I'm not talking about yesterdays game


Not if they had seen the game... (I wonder a bit on which basis you are making such statements if you haven't seen the game)

Indeed, note how I was talking about those who hadn't seen the game, not my own perception of the score,and thus only had the final score to make their judgement upon.

:balloon2:

[Ser Clegane]

Well if a team, any team, is obviously the lesser one on the field and then manages to score a winning goal in the last 5 minutes of the game, I call that ''stealing a victory'' and the ensuing win ''underserved''. Germany has been the victim of this kind ilfortune, but has also done it a few times.

I do hope I made it clear that I wasn't talking about yesterdays game because I had not seen that game. I merely heard Germany was way better than Poland. And thus deserved to win. I was talking in a general sense.

You were actually directly referring to the other three times that Germany won due to a goal in the last 5 minutes:

Although my meaning was clear, as I was referring to the 3 times they scored in the last 5 minutes. Stealing a victory like that is just as cunning as it is undeserved.

Why was it "undeserved" and "stealing" in those three games? (prehaps you know more than I do, for I do not even know which games that would be apart from the Paraguay game in 2002)

I have a bit the feeling that you still have the 1974 Worldcup finals in mind when you refer to the German team undeservedly "stealing a victory"

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I agree, the red card and PK should not have occured. The Ukranian defender pulled his shorts a little outside the box, but let go while inside. The thing was though, that pulling of the shorts isn't really called unless it's really blatant and that is not what the referee called. He called the red card for when the Spain player tripped and fell on his own butt.

Equador - 2 vs. Costa Rica - 0

This game seemed a bit one sided. Everyone thinks Equador is so great and everything. You know what? Germany is going to put them back in their place. You'll see.

[Dutch_guy]

This game seemed a bit one sided. Everyone thinks Equador is so great and everything. You know what? Germany is going to put them back in their place. You'll see.

Well it'll most certainly be an interesting match, I think both teams will go all the way considering they both want to have the best qualifications for the quarter finals !

:balloon2:

[DukeofSerbia]

What would you have done, if you were the coach ?

:balloon2:

Hoi.

Long story... Petkovic called his son to WC then he sent him home as Serbian public became mad. Pure nepotism. He called Nenad Djordjevic to be right back and he put him into game. It was the first great game for Djordjevic. And of course Roben did what he wanted on Serbian right side in first half. Koroman did't played from start. Savo Milosevic played in attack beacause he need now only one game to rich his 100 game for national team. Not to mention coward tactics - so called "bunker".

We can beat Argentina with drastical change in tactics and some players must play from start like Zigic and Koroman.

How Croats played against Brasil brave?

Netherlands is average team and nothing more.

[Bar Kochba]

2-0 to england!!!!!

[Goalie]

Hehe, England got owned for 83 min. I found it hillarious that England's goalie got megged even though it didn't count.

[DukeofSerbia]

And as you said - they were clearly better (I don't think that Poland would have had reason to complain is the final score had been 3-0)

It seems that Polish players are happy with fact they reached WC. Now they play as group of tourists.:dizzy2:

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

There are several criticisms that could have been made of the team, but the bottom line is England have won two games, are through to the second round, and haven't conceded a goal yet.

[Dutch_guy]

You were actually directly referring to the other three times that Germany won due to a goal in the last 5 minutes:



It seems you're right ! Which is strange since I wasn't meaning to reffer to those 3 times they scored in the last 5 minutes, really , I don't know why I wrote that. Sorry for that. :skull:

Oh and for the record, those 3 games did give the German team quite a reputation.



I have a bit the feeling that you still have the 1974 Worldcup finals in mind when you refer to the German team undeservedly "stealing a victory"


Well not really, in that game the Germans scored twice in the first half (or very early in the second, don't know for sure), meaning we still had more than enough time left to repair the damage. A shame we lost, the individual class of our players was better, but we lost - we should have made a goal, we didn't. As much as I would like to say you stole the win, you didn't. Though I do maintain we had the better player, but that doesn't automaticly win you the game as was the case in '74.


Long story... Petkovic called his son to WC then he sent him home as Serbian public became mad. Pure nepotism. He called Nenad Djordjevic to be right back and he put him into game. It was the first great game for Djordjevic. And of course Roben did what he wanted on Serbian right side in first half. Koroman did't played from start. Savo Milosevic played in attack beacause he need now only one game to rich his 100 game for national team. Not to mention coward tactics - so called "bunker".

I must say the Serbs did impress me, especially Koroman and Zigic, they were close an several occaisions.


We can beat Argentina with drastical change in tactics and some players must play from start like Zigic and Koroman.

What tactical changes would you say are needed to beat Argentina ?

:balloon2:

[Fragony]

Netherlands is average team and nothing more.

Serbia can do a whole lot better, but calling us 'average' is a bit much ~:)

[DukeofSerbia]

The worst game in the first round was Paraguay - England. In second untill now is England - T&T.

England had good defense, strong midfield (one of better) and average goalkeeper with pathetic strikers. Rooney is injured, Owen out of form and Crouch ...:laugh4: :laugh4: :laugh4: Backam is out of form, too, it's obvious.

[InsaneApache]

Stevie Gerrards goal was class. :2thumbsup:

[Fragony]

Stevie Gerrards goal was class. :2thumbsup:

Be ashamed anyway :laugh4:

[The Blind King of Bohemia]

The worst game in the first round was Paraguay - England. In second untill now is England - T&T.

England had good defense, strong midfield (one of better) and average goalkeeper with pathetic strikers. Rooney is injured, Owen out of form and Crouch ...:laugh4: :laugh4: :laugh4: Backam is out of form, too, it's obvious.


Well when serbia are sent home tomorrow you can watch some better footie matches when england prove, after this slip up we are better than today's performance. Watch the sweden game and against a more attacking team the game will be better

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

I do agree our offensive capabilities leave something to be desired. Sven should have taken Defoe or Bent instead of Walcott-especially since he doesn't seem to actually want to play him.

[Prodigal]

2-0 to england!!!!!
Errrr esqueeze me but I think you mean...


2-0 ENGLAND!!!
:dancing:

[DukeofSerbia]

Serbia can do a whole lot better, but calling us 'average' is a bit much ~:)

For me you are. Coward tactics of our couch was crucial. As we played as Croats against Brasil you would lose.



I must say the Serbs did impress me, especially Koroman and Zigic, they were close an several occaisions.


What to add? I watched game on Croatian state televison and I they know Serbian team much better then we know.

As you know, our group is "group of death".



What tactical changes would you say are needed to beat Argentina ?


100% offensive from start. Vidic (MU) is out because of injury and that's great loss for us. Zigic, Kezman and Ljuboja from start as strikers. No more Djordjevic as right back. Koroman from start in midfield. But, that will never happend.

P.S.
Lag on this forum is killing me...:wall:

[Dutch_guy]

Well to be fair, I didn't find Croatia to be playing as good as I thought they were capable of, but maybe they just weren't able to play there game against Brazil ?

Also why wouldn't your coach position Koroman on the right flank of the midfield?

Surely he must have left at least some impression after your game against us...

:balloon2:

[Monarch]

Backam is out of form, too, it's obvious.

Depends by what you mean by out of form, IMO he was shocking at Euro 04, but IMO this is just the new way he plays, he's older now so he doesn't make blistering runs down the wing, get Lennon if you want that. But look who swung the ball in for Crouch, Beckham, look who basically scored the Paraguay goal, Beckham. To be honest I thought he'd jsut gone crap whilst at Madrid but I was pleasantly surprised with his performances, but then maybe I set my expectations very low.

Anywho, another three points, Rooney back, Rooney getting back to fitness, play him a bit in Sweden game, bit more for game vs Ecuador/Germany in last 16 and then he should be around his best for Argentina/Holland game (first test, which tbh I think we'll lose unless everyone, especially Rooney plays out of their skin).

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Wow, congrats to Trinidad and Tobago for the effort put in. England didn't play to full potential, but still, it was good fighting. Crouch's goal was long overdue and nice shot to Garrard.

Sweden should have scored so many times before the goal in the 89th minute. Good job to Sweden for getting first goal in the first round. They averaged 3 in prelims. Ha to Paraguay for getting kicked out.:laugh4:

[scotchedpommes]

England were poor today, and Trinidad and Tobago were unfortunate not to get
a goal at the very least. Also have to feel for Paraguay going out so painfully
yet again. At least it was not to undeserving Germans.

[Still have hope that Serbia can pull something out of the bag - and more
confident that Croatia can get out of their group.] ~:)

[Alexanderofmacedon]

England were poor today, and Trinidad and Tobago were unfortunate not to get
a goal at the very least. Also have to feel for Paraguay going out so painfully
yet again. At least it was not to undeserving Germans.

[Still have hope that Serbia can pull something out of the bag - and more
confident that Croatia can get out of their group.] ~:)

Just because Germany is the best doesn't mean they're undeserving.

[Kaiser of Arabia]

Deustchland! Ftw!

[Louis VI the Fat]

I thought England's performance was decent enough. Great crosses by Beckham, a belter by Gerrard.

Any team would've had difficulty breaking TNT's well-organised, defensive opposition. England need to diversify their strategy up front a bit, less long balls at Crouch. But with the return of Rooney that problem looks solved already.

My feeling is that England is gaining momentum. They could definitely go all the way.


Germany is gaining momentum too. They've done it again: when the tournament starts, they're there and they deliver. I've got to respect them for it.

Their mentality puts everybody else to shame. If only we would have even half of their fighting spirit. :wall:

[scotchedpommes]

Just because Germany is the best doesn't mean they're undeserving.

:laugh4:



If only we would have even half of their fighting spirit.

I hope France can improve. While I think Switzerland might have done enough to
even warrant getting 3 points from that match, it's worrying to see players like
Henry not performing.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

:laugh4:




I hope France can improve. While I think Switzerland might have done enough to
even warrant getting 3 points from that match, it's worrying to see players like
Henry not performing.

I'll pay ten bucks to any team that takes France out of the cup. It's one less team I see seeded ahead of Germany. And there are 13 teams too many in front. Germany is seeded 19th.:wall:

SSNeo: I was messin around. I know they're not the best, but they have a shot and being my team, I have to support them no matter what.

Bastian Schweinsteiger
Michael Ballack
Phillipp Lahm
Lukas Podolski

My Fab4 :laugh4:

[Louis VI the Fat]

I'll pay ten bucks to any team that takes France out of the cup. I'll pay ten bucks to any team that takes France out of the world cup. Get it over and done with. :shame:

[scotchedpommes]

I'll pay ten bucks to any team that takes France out of the world cup. Get it over and done with. :shame:

:no:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Henry and Zadane are overated.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Brazil is going to take the throphy home!:brazil:

Brazil can suck a ****. I'd rather see ANY team win the world cup than Brazil. DEUTSCHLAND ÜBER ALLES

Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, über alles in der Welt.

IF MY GERMANY DOESN'T BEAT THEM, THE CZECH'S WILL!

:germany:

[Malcolm Big Head]

Why is the team England and not the UK?

:help: (I want a team Missouri)

[AwesomeArcher]

Wow, that was a great game by Trinadad & Tabago, but it was just a matter of time before England scored. I dont think that Henry is overated, he saved England's tail in the first half with that great volley and again later when he ran down a forward on a breakaway. I wasn't too impressed with England for the first 84 minutes or whatever, but they picked it up. I also wasn't impressed with England's goalie he did get megged as bettkicker19.

[scotchedpommes]

Henry and Zadane are overated.

If you see what Henry can do for his club, you might reconsider - unfortunately the
team just doesn't seem to be there to support him at a national level, at least from
what I've seen.


Why is the team England and not the UK?

There are separate teams for each of the UK home nations. They would never
play together.


I dont think that Henry is overated, he saved England's tail in the first half with that great volley and again later when he ran down a forward on a breakaway.

Hm. Henry? As in, Thierry Henry (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thierry_Henry)?

[IrishMike]

Man all I know is England scared the everything outta me today. Gotta have better finishing touch. One does have to give credit for T and T, they played a packed, but stout defense.

Does anyone else think that Brazil isn't as good as the pre cup hype. I just didn't see the oozing of greatness out there. Spain had better passing than Brazil in the opening game.

[scotchedpommes]

Brazil were nothing special, but the commentators and pundits still don't fail to
talk them up. [*grumbles*]

[Strike For The South]

Anyone but :brazil: Go 1. :germany: 2. :england: 3. :mexico: (They better stay in or all the free stuff Im getting will stop) On a side note does any one else look at Ronaldhino and shiver?

[IrishMike]

Anyone but :brazil: Go 1. :germany: 2. :england: 3. :mexico: (They better stay in or all the free stuff Im getting will stop) On a side note does any one else look at Ronaldhino and shiver?

Man strike thats what makes him good, is that he's so ugly you can't guard the man. Defenders throw up when they see his face.:laugh4:

[barocca]

Braziilian ex-pats living here in Australia are preparing for a big night,
the game starts at 2AM local time !

according to some Brazillians that i know the best thing about Brazil and Australia playing??

no matter who wins THEY GET TO PARTY!!!! :balloon2:

GO THE ROO'S
B.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Man strike thats what makes him good, is that he's so ugly you can't guard the man. Defenders throw up when they see his face.:laugh4:

Tell me if this sounds right to you.

He looks like a horse. Am I right? Look at him and you will deffinetly agree. Rooney isn't a looker himself. I guess if you're good at soccer, you're ugly! :laugh4:

And SFTS: Germany being your number one pick as well as saying anyone but Brasil has made me develop a new view of you.

DEUTSCHLAND ÜBER ALLES

Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, über alles in der Welt.

There is a chant for you. NOW SAY IT!

[Ser Clegane]

DEUTSCHLAND ÜBER ALLES

Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, über alles in der Welt.

There is a chant for you. NOW SAY IT!

That chant would have "some" negative connotations and is usualöly frowned upon here in Germany.

Thanks for the support for our team though ~:) :2thumbsup:

[naut]

You know what I hate, UK press!!! Instead of supporting the England team all they do is F*ing critise it! If your not supporting your country of what use are you?!?!

[Taurus]

Henry isn't overratted, he's the best striker in the world at the moment. But he does play a lot better for his club than his country, but that's down to who he's playing with and when he was playing against Switzerland he was alone up front.

But yeah it was a good fight that Trinidad and Tobago put up but it was inevitable that England would score at least one. Terry was man of the match for me though, he played very well, saved us from about 2 goals and well he was just second to none.

[naut]

Henry isn't overratted, he's the best striker in the world at the moment. But he does play a lot better for his club than his country, but that's down to who he's playing with and when he was playing against Switzerland he was alone up front.

But yeah it was a good fight that Trinidad and Tobago put up but it was inevitable that England would score at least one. Terry was man of the match for me though, he played very well, saved us from about 2 goals and well he was just second to none.

Agreed. :balloon3:

Henry is awesome, and being an Arsenal fan I would have to say yes it does come down to who's supporting him up front. Terry played well, hell infact the entire defense played well!!!

[Ironside]

There are several criticisms that could have been made of the team, but the bottom line is England have won two games, are through to the second round, and haven't conceded a goal yet.

Now when we finally have scored a goal, we can correct that :evil:

[DukeofSerbia]

Sweden – Paraguay 1 – 0

Zlatan Ibrahimović again played without motivation like he played second part of season for Juventus. Allbäck played good and he have to start match against England.

Note about referee: Luboš is the best referee by now in World Cup.

@BKB

I don’t care if we lost against Argentina. Only rare in Serbia believe that we can win and I also believe that we can do nothing. I bet on Argentinean win.

Just listen when “national anthem” of Serbia and Montenegro come on turn in today game. Serbian fans will whistle on “national anthem”. You know why is that? In every competition anthem “Hey Slavs” (or in Serbian „Hej Sloveni“) is whistled in last 10 years. Red Star’s fans even boycott matches of national team (Red Star Belgrade is the largest and most popular Serbian football club, second is Partizan Belgrade) because of flag, coat of arms and national anthem.

[DukeofSerbia]

Argentina – Serbia and Montenegro

Expected Serbian starting team (couch Petković said on conference that will be one surprise, Ljuboja is confirmed in starting team, he replaced Kežman; expected formation 4-1-3-2):

3. Dragutinović
10. Stanković 9. Milošević
20. Krstajić
1.Jevrić 17. Nađ 11. P. Đorđević
6. Garvrančić
7. Koroman 21. Ljuboja
4. Duljaj


Confirmed Argentinean starting team (by Pekerman yesterday, expected formation 4-3-1-2):

3. Sorin
18. Rodriguez 7. Saviola
6. Haince
1. Abondancieri 8. Maskerano 10. Riquelme
2. Ayala
22. Gonzales 9. Crespo
21. Burdioso


What to say – Argentina is clear favorite. Serbian couch Petković on yesterday meeting with press: „Argentinians play nice and modern football. First rule is that we don’t receive (?) goal, however I don’t prohibite players to attack. No runing, we have to be pacient. You know against we play?“
Serbian journalists speculate that Nikola Žigić could be in starting team as secret weapon, but I don’t believe in that. Most likely again “bunker” tactics. No Vidić in team because of injury is great loss. Dejan Stanković is out of form and he never played well for national team. I will add that on media conference mood was bad obvios.

Pekerman announced offensive from start. Cambiasso is replaced with more offensive player Gonzales. Lionel Messi is fit for today match.

[Dutch_guy]

I thought Stankovic played ok against Holland last saturday, and he surely is the best player ot have on that position - or is there some other talented player that can play there also, who I missed ?

Hope Serbia can inflict some damage on Argentina, but I doubt it.

:balloon2:

[The Blind King of Bohemia]

Argentina team play and build up are something to behold. The second goal was a fantastic team goal. They look a very tasty team indeed. They don't rush on scoring goals but hit you on the counter attack and dismantle you. Very good stuff but Serbia were actaully playing some nice football till the second goal

[cegorach]

Just listen when “national anthem” of Serbia and Montenegro come on turn in today game. Serbian fans will whistle on “national anthem”. You know why is that? In every competition anthem “Hey Slavs” (or in Serbian „Hej Sloveni“) is whistled in last 10 years. Red Star’s fans even boycott matches of national team (Red Star Belgrade is the largest and most popular Serbian football club, second is Partizan Belgrade) because of flag, coat of arms and national anthem.


Good there was no match between Serbia and Poland... our anthems have the same melody for some reason, jeez this would be weird...:inquisitive:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Not looking good for Serbia. It seems only one mistake will cost them a goal. Three and you're down 3-0.

LOSE ARGENTINA!

Soulforged: Who ya goin for? :laugh4:

[Dutch_guy]

Impressive show Argentina !

The second goal is a beauty, the ball was passed around 25 times before they scored, impressive really !

:balloon2:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Impressive show Argentina !

The second goal is a beauty, the ball was passed around 25 times before they scored, impressive really !

:balloon2:

Netherlands are gonna win!:2thumbsup:

[Dutch_guy]

Netherlands are gonna win!:2thumbsup:

I do hope so ! :2thumbsup:

Hope Germany and Holland 'll meet in the quarter finals by the way, now that would be interesting !

:balloon2:

[Rodion Romanovich]

That first half was certainly Argentina at it's best!

I don't think second half will be worth watching though, they'll probably save their tricks for later games now that they are leading with 3-0. Serbia broke together almost completely after 1-0 and a series of about 2-3 dubious referee actions. The coach seemed to give up already from start, which explains how the first goal and a few dubious referee decisions made the Serbian team give up. A pity, because judging from their performance in last EC and other games they have a lot more potential than they showed today. Then came the 2-0 goal - the most beatiful goal in the entire WC so far IMO, after which the Serbian team gave up completely. 3-0 was probably the second most beautiful goal of this WC, but by then Serbia had already largely given up so it wasn't an as impressive show as it seemed.

I'm pleased to see Argentina being able to score with longer distance shots too (1-0 goal), it means they've got what they've been lacking the last few tournaments. Without the ability to threaten opponents from a distance they only had the close short passes tactics which tended to get get bogged down and easily stopped by teams with good defense. With good long-distance shots they can threaten the opposing defense in more ways and get more flexibility.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I do hope so ! :2thumbsup:

Hope Germany and Holland 'll meet in the quarter finals by the way, now that would be interesting !

:balloon2:

I'm making myself a Germany shirt right now. I will buy some replica jerseys later, but now I just got a white T-shirt, put the German flag on it, put DEUTSCHLAND on the front. On the back I have DEUTSCHLAND UBER ALLES IN DER WELT! :2thumbsup:


Clegane: what is a good chant for Germany other than that?

[scotchedpommes]

Good night, Serbia and Montenegro.
Looking forward to seeing the Argentina Holland match now. I think some people
might just be looking for a little revenge for that day in Marseille.

5 - 0 now. No, no, no. :no:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Good night, Serbia and Montenegro.
Looking forward to seeing the Argentina Holland match now. I think some people
might just be looking for a little revenge for that day in Marseille.

Holland will put Argentina in their place. FORZA HOLLAND!

[Riedquat]

Holland will put Argentina in their place. FORZA HOLLAND!


Our revenge is not against Holland, you must know that.:skull:

[scotchedpommes]

FORZA HOLLAND!

Very Dutch. ~;)

[6 - 0.]

[Dutch_guy]

That first half was certainly Argentina at it's best!

I don't think second half will be worth watching though, they'll probably save their tricks for later games now that they are leading with 3-0. Serbia broke together almost completely after 1-0 and a series of about 2-3 dubious referee actions. The coach seemed to give up already from start, which explains how the first goal and a few dubious referee decisions made the Serbian team give up. A pity, because judging from their performance in last EC and other games they have a lot more potential than they showed today. Then came the 2-0 goal - the most beatiful goal in the entire WC so far IMO, after which the Serbian team gave up completely. 3-0 was probably the second most beautiful goal of this WC, but by then Serbia had already largely given up so it wasn't an as impressive show as it seemed.

.

The second half was just as exiting as the first, really, argentina at its best.

They even brought in Messi, who then proceeded to humiliate the Serbs even more, eventually giving the assist that led to the 5th goal. And then made the 6th one himself.

And I agree, goal number two was the best goal of the WC thus far.

:balloon2:

[InsaneApache]

Argentina played well.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Wow, Serbia got absolutely thrashed. That was actually quite painful to watch.

[x-dANGEr]

Currently watching Netherlands VS CIV.. Man, what's the matter with this referee? As far as I counted, he had 'ignored' a penalty kick for the CIV, given one of their players a yellow card for nothing and counted the 2nd goal for the Netherlands which was an offside (As far as I believe).

Edit: (For comments, had to go at those last lines)

Man.. The 2 first goals in the match were both awesome.. Really nice! Seems like a well game through the first half. Good job to both teams ;)

[[DnC]]

Currently watching Netherlands VS CIV.. Man, what's the matter with this referee? As far as I counted, he had 'ignored' a penalty kick for the CIV, given one of their players a yellow card for nothing and counted the 2nd goal for the Netherlands which was an offside (As far as I believe).

Edit: (For comments, had to go at those last lines)

Man.. The 2 first goals in the match were both awesome.. Really nice! Seems like a well game through the first half. Good job to both teams ;)

The second wasn't offside. Their leftback (? or was it another?) made it possible for Van the Man to score because he made the difference between on and offside.

Anyways... What an unbelievable bunch of bull from the Dutch defense. Come on, how friggin' poor! If they continue to play this way Holland will lose. Very unsatisfied with the defense. Offense however does a quite a good game. Perhaps too many long balls are made though.

If there is any team I'd like to see win the world cup besides my own country, it will be without a doubt ARGENTINA!! Awesome team. WOW!!!!

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Very Dutch. ~;)

[6 - 0.]

I know :2thumbsup:

Dutch, Cote d'Ivoire isn't going down without a fight. Getting lucky with Piercy (sp?) saving that goal line. :sweatdrop:

[Big_John]

dutch were thuroughly outplayed. côte d'ivoire got very unlucky not only in this game, but being put in this group.

ref was pretty bad, but he probably didn't change the outcome that much. if the côte d'ivoire had a better goalie, they'd have won this game.

2010 WC in south africa.. will be interesting to watch how côte d'ivoire performs there.

[[DnC]]

'Robin Van Persie' AoM.

Netherlands did not win deservedly despite one great freekick and a nicely finished goal by Van the Man.
Cote d'Ivoire deserved a draw. Hell I predicted it would be 2-2 and it would have almost been that.

It's really, really too bad Cote d'Ivoire cannot go through. Nice team. Hope they get more luck next time and don't land in another killergroup.

I'm glad however, but still feel a little bad about how they won. I wish they could have played more dominately. At least they have a chance now to grow in the tournament and really am hoping the defense gets their act together, far too many mistakes. Bad covering, passive defense which gives their opponents to much room. Second half they improved though, but it still needs to be better if they want to win the World Cup.

Van Persie is really showing his worth, what a guy!

Also no more friggin' Heitinga, Boulahrouz all the way!

[Taurus]

Argentina were absouloutly awesome, FIFA should take a good look at their rankings, 9th??? :inquisitive:.

I felt sorry for Ivory Coast though I think they deserved at least another goal they played very well, very unlucky.

[x-dANGEr]

Yes.. Unlucky 'cote d'ivoire'.. I think they also outplayed Argentina in their game with it.

[Big King Sanctaphrax]

Ivory Coast were really unlucky, they played very well and deserved at least a draw, I felt. It was a good match in general, although the second half was a little less exciting than the first.

Props have to go to Van Persie, he was everywhere!

[DukeofSerbia]

Good there was no match between Serbia and Poland... our anthems have the same melody for some reason, jeez this would be weird...:inquisitive:

Yes, it true. That's why everybody hate former anthem "Hey Slavs". That's anthem of communist's Yugoslavia and Serbia has anthem.

[DukeofSerbia]

Argentina – Serbia and Montenegro 6 – 0

Argentina wasn’t better team. Argentina was DRASTICLY better team.

Roberto Rossetti is the worst referee so far in the World Cup without any doubts. He was referee in game Iran – Mexico where he judged bad and now he was much worse! I watched game (ARG – SCG) on Croatian state television (HRT 2) and co speaker was former Croatian national couch Ćiro Blažević. He said for Rossetti that he is a hoof at least 8 times in second half and added: “He is referee in World Cup only because he is Italian. He is total anti talent!” For Serbian defender he said: “Four balks”. I agree with him 100%.
Serbian defense without Nemanja Vidić is pathetic, weak and disorganized. In midfield there is no player who can well pass to strikers. We don’t have player who can shoot well free kicks or corners. Pathetic!

P.S.
When Crespo scored in first half there was no offside and Kežman didn’t deserved red card.

[DukeofSerbia]

Netherlands - Cote d'Ivoire 2 - 1

Cote d'Ivoire has poor goalkeeper (Tissue) and poor realization of chances. On other hand, Netherlands had a lot of luck and referee was on their side. Columbian referee Oscar Ruiz is even worse than Rossetti. Rossetti didn’t impacted on match Argentina – Serbia, but Ruiz’s decisions had huge impact on this game. At least two penalties he didn’t give to Cote d'Ivoire and, to be honest, one to Netherlands.

[DukeofSerbia]

On the back I have DEUTSCHLAND UBER ALLES IN DER WELT! :2thumbsup:





Deutschland hat gute Manschaft, aber sie sind nicht die beste.

[Louis VI the Fat]

Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit! :2thumbsup:

That is the motto of Germany, and the part of the anthem now sung. "Deutschland, Deutschland über alles" is for right-wingers, and doesn't do Germany justice.



I'm making myself a Germany shirt right now. I will buy some replica jerseys later, but now I just got a white T-shirt, put the German flag on it, put DEUTSCHLAND on the front. On the back I have DEUTSCHLAND UBER ALLES IN DER WELT! :2thumbsup:


Clegane: what is a good chant for Germany other than that?Try 'Deutschland, Deutschland, alles ist vorbei...alles ist vorbei....alles ist vorbei!' :sweatdrop:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit! :2thumbsup:

That is the motto of Germany, and the part of the anthem now sung. "Deutschland, Deutschland über alles" is for right-wingers, and doesn't do Germany justice.


Try 'Deutschland, Deutschland, alles ist vorbei...alles ist vorbei....alles ist vorbei!' :sweatdrop:

Well you people have to tell me what they mean!

HAHAHA! All of Mexico is crying. Tremendous effort put forewards by Angola. Nice tie (might as well be a loss). All we can hope for is that Angola will beat Iran and some how advance instead of Mexico.

And BTW, Serbia is a good team and didn't deserve a 6-0 loss (of course they did play pretty bad, but they're worth more). And Duke of Serbia, Germany does have the best manpower, but they are the best.

[InsaneApache]

Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, über alles in der Welt.

To my untrained English ear this as always sounded like..

Deutschland, Deutschland ünter alles, ünter alles in der Welt.

Now. Isn't that better? :laugh4:

[Soulforged]

Looking forward to seeing the Argentina Holland match now. I think some people
might just be looking for a little revenge for that day in Marseille.
Oh yes.... :devil: I'll have to disagree with Favius here, I certainly expected this match since I suffered that match in 1998. It will be hard though, Serbia wasn't and easy team but an error in the defense at the start and morale goes down quickly, if the same happens to Holland then we'll see...

[Dutch_guy]

Well, what can I say ? I'm happy we made it to the next round.

Had we not won this match, then we would have had to get a draw against Argentina - or a win. Neither is very likely judging by our current defence which is horrible :juggle2:

We outplayed IC the first 40 minutes, scored twice and generally kept them on their half - of course not taking into account their goal, which was a great one.
The second half, well I don't know what van Basten told the team, but they started playing way to defensive, and gave away far to much room. The correct way to have played was to continue like we did in the first half, and score another early goal, thereby making it an almost impossible task for the IC team to win the match.

However we didn't and gave a way to much room on the midfield, giving IC a lot of chances which weren't at all necessary had we played a more attacking game.

All in all, because our team played a bit too defensive in my opinion, we gave away chances which could have led to a draw. It's sad that IC had to lose this way, I'd rather have them rewarded for their play in yesterday's match, but I am glad we're through.

:balloon2:

[scotchedpommes]

Oh yes.... :devil: I'll have to disagree with Favius here, I certainly expected this match since I suffered that match in 1998. It will be hard though, Serbia wasn't and easy team but an error in the defense at the start and morale goes down quickly, if the same happens to Holland then we'll see...

And how I cheered then. I'm confident the Dutch will fight. [There is a good
chance that they will crash and burn now that I've said that. The only underdog
to put up a successful fight and win was Australia - excuse for an overly dramatic
clip (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-ywh6q6GbY).]

[Ser Clegane]

Try 'Deutschland, Deutschland, alles ist vorbei...alles ist vorbei....alles ist vorbei!' :sweatdrop:

:stare:


Deutschland, Deutschland ünter alles, ünter alles in der Welt.

:inquisitive:

[Quid]

Try 'Deutschland, Deutschland, alles ist vorbei...alles ist vorbei....alles ist vorbei!' :sweatdrop:

He he he...I like...a lot! On the other hand, I suppose since Germany is the host we will let them proceed one or two more rounds. They have been very good so far with all the stadia filled and a wonderful atmosphere.

Quid

[Rodion Romanovich]

Grr, a decent WC day today, but I'm eagerly awaiting tommorrow's games:
JPN-CRO 15:00 - kamikaze goals please
BRA-AUS 18:00 - go Australia/Hiddink!
FRA-KOR 21:00 - hopefully French players wake up. If not, hopefully Korea will score 2-0 or something

:jumping:

Oh and Angola holding Mexico to a tie yesterday was a pretty entertaining game to watch!

[Ser Clegane]

Today is the match between Portugal and Iran here in Frankfurt.

I just came home from doing the shopping for the weekend in the city and it was really fantastic to see all the happy fans from both countries filling the streets of Frankfurt.
I particularly likes a scene when two small fan Portuguese and Iranian fan groups started a kind of chanting competition and then posed together to take some pictures of the combined group.
That's the spirit I love to see here during the Worldcup :2thumbsup:

I am already looking forward to the match between Argentina and Holland that will take place in Frankfurt next week.
I expect the city of Frankfurt to be orange ~:)

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Iran vs. Portugal

In order for Mexico to get knocked out (which I would like very much), Portugal would have to win here to get first for sure. Than Angola would have to beat Iran more than 3-1 so I'm going to Portugal, but I really want to underdogs to win this game. I'm torn...:embarassed:

Iran is doing well. They don't have possession of the ball almost at all, but they are making their chances when they get the ball. Portugal just can't finish and it seems even with their possession numbers they can't even get a good look.

[Dutch_guy]

So how did the game turn out ?

Did I miss anything by missing the game ?

:balloon2:

[Rodion Romanovich]

Portugal 2-0 Iran. Was pretty good football (Portugal always is), but the second goal was penalty shot and Portugal wasn't in top-shape. Miguel, Deco and Figo played well though.

[Sasaki Kojiro]

Wow, Ghana dominated Czech republic 2-0. Could easily have been 4-0 ~D

[Dutch_guy]

Now that surprised me a lot, didn't think Ghana would rip the Czech republic to pieces as they did...

Now it makes it a lot harder for the Czechs to go through to the next round, they have to beat Italy, whereas they would have been there already had they won todays match.

If they lose, and Ghana beats the US (likely) then Ghana's through.

That would be a surprise...

:balloon2:

[LeftEyeNine]

Here goes the inability caused by a weak bench. Did anyone see some influential Czech forward on the pitch ?

[ShadesPanther]

Here goes the inability caused by a weak bench. Did anyone see some influential Czech forward on the pitch ?
The Beanpole up front wasn't very good. He is like a poor man's Peter Crouch.
He will not be playing against Italy now. Who else is there upfront?

The Czechs simply got out muscled by Ghana. They lost almost every 50-50 and they just couldn't get the ball off some of the players. A well deserved win though.

[ShadesWolf]

An excellent game

2-0 is by no means a reflection on this match.
Ghana missed a pen and could have had 10.
The Czechs seemed to struggle without 'The big guy' and Baros.

[Crazed Rabbit]

GO GHANA!!!!!!!!!
A huge upset, 2-0 victory over the Czechs!

The US is still in it! Now if they can just win against Italy...

Crazed Rabbit

[InsaneApache]

GO GHANA!!!!!!!!!
A huge upset, 2-0 victory over the Czechs!

The US is still in it! Now if they can just win against Italy...

Crazed Rabbit

There's more chance of a creationist embracing Darwinism.

(oopps wrong board :laugh4: )

Ghana played well.

[doc_bean]

I don't quite understand why Ghana still played so 'enthousiastic' in the last few minutes though, they even missed a few goals by rushing in as they did.

It seems like US-Italy is truning into a bloodbath right now ...

[x-dANGEr]

Czech really missed their big boys..

Anyway, go USA!! (Man.. That red card was more than surely deserved.. Come on Italy, what are you playing; soccer or karate?)

[Knight Templar]

I'm just watching, 10 Italians vs 9 Americans. Italian offensive players play terribly.

[Idaho]

Whoa! Now that's soccer ~:)

Fantastic stuff. Well done US. I think if McBride had been a better player they might have even won.

I wonder if the game has converted any Americans to the beauty of draws?

[Louis VI the Fat]

That was fantastic! One of the most interesting games so far. The Americans in the audience didn't look all that enthusiatic, when all the foreign papers will applaud the American team. Maybe the old stereotype still applies, that Americans just don't have a feel for 'soccer', at least a different one.

The Italy/ Czech / USA/ Ghana group is the most exciting by far. Their final games last round should be two thrillers. Brilliant stuff. :2thumbsup:

[Sasaki Kojiro]

That was a crappy game...are red cards for late tackles usual?

[doc_bean]

I liked the game, good play from the Americans. A little too violent a game perhaps though...

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I can't believe Ghana beat the Czech Republic. Luck? Yes. Hard work? Yes.

On any given day though any team can win and the chances of that happening again in my mind are slim to none. Czech vs. Italy will be an amazing game. Ghana vs. United States will be an amazing game.

I just can't wait for Argentina vs. Netherlands and Germany vs. Equador.:2thumbsup:

[Dutch_guy]

That was quite the game, exiting really.

Must say the referee knew what he was doing, 3 red cards and each and every one of them was deserved, also props to the linesman for cancelling the late US goal. Would have been great had they won, but it really was offside.

I'd expected the Italians to eventually score the winning goal considering how each and every American was thoroughly exhausted, but the goal wasn't scored, mainly due to some great reflexes by the US keeper.

As said, this group is definitely the most interesting one, each team is still able to progress to the next round!

Looking forward to the Italy - Czech republic game, bound to be interesting !

:balloon2:

[Quid]

USA - Italy

One of the best games I have actually ever seen. Not in terms of quality necessarily but in terms of heart and intensity. Both teams really wanted the win. This game had it all. Red cards, yellow cards, blood, simulating Italians, goals, offsides, offside goal and a wholly open group...what else could you wish for? The only thing that was missing, I suppose, was a winner. Then again, after having seen the look on Lippi's face, the US definitely took it.

What a marvelous evening of football and what a joy to be alive to have seen it...

This, of course, is the view of someone that didn't favour any team in particular but just wanted to see an intense game and got what he bargained for...

Thank you football!

Quid

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Italy was better. The USA's goal was pure luck. They'd be nothing without that. LUCK. Nothing more.

[Crazed Rabbit]

A great performance by Americans. Down a man for 40+ minutes, and they tied Italy.

Yes, Italy scored both goals, but Americans pushed hard the whole game. And the red for the late tackle was, to me, absurd.

Italy was a man up for 40 mins-and America was what-a 8-1 underdog? The Americans deserved this.

And now, if Italy beats Czech, and America beats Ghana, we can advance! A decidely heated group. Any team could advance. Heck, Ghana could be the group leader (though I certainly hope not).

Crazed Rabbit

[scotchedpommes]

Don't see the Americans getting past Ghana if they play as well as they did
today against the Czechs. Was willing them to beat the Italians after the
elbowing, almost as much as I wanted the Germans beaten four years ago.


[Also need to see France actually show up for the match tomorrow night against
South Korea.]

[The Black Ship]

That was quite the game, exiting really.

Must say the referee knew what he was doing, 3 red cards and each and every one of them was deserved, also props to the linesman for cancelling the late US goal. Would have been great had they won, but it really was offside.

I'd expected the Italians to eventually score the winning goal considering how each and every American was thoroughly exhausted, but the goal wasn't scored, mainly due to some great reflexes by the US keeper.

As said, this group is definitely the most interesting one, each team is still able to progress to the next round!

Looking forward to the Italy - Czech republic game, bound to be interesting !

:balloon2:
Well, being a fan of the team that received the smelly end of the stick I can't believe you're serious about the ref. Pope's two yellows, OK, if we're going by the letter of the law...but when does any ref go by the letter of the law? Mastroeni's was a yellow, plain and simple. Has been all tourney, why the sudden change in interpretation? And, I've seen Drogba take a swipe at a ball when he was "passive" and the goal stood... are you saying THAT ref was wrong:oops:

Do I sound biased:idea2:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

A great performance by Americans. Down a man for 40+ minutes, and they tied Italy.

Yes, Italy scored both goals, but Americans pushed hard the whole game. And the red for the late tackle was, to me, absurd.

Italy was a man up for 40 mins-and America was what-a 8-1 underdog? The Americans deserved this.

And now, if Italy beats Czech, and America beats Ghana, we can advance! A decidely heated group. Any team could advance. Heck, Ghana could be the group leader (though I certainly hope not).

Crazed Rabbit

Nope. America is seeded 5th and Italy 13th. Those seedings gave USA way too good a standing, but they were supposedly the favorites. I don't know how I want this to turn out though. I want the worst teams to come out of every group to help Germany's chances, but I don't who the worst two are!:help:

[Louis VI the Fat]

[Also need to see France actually show up for the match tomorrow night against
South Korea.]Oh the princesses will show up alright. The question is, will the combined striking force of Arsenal, Manchester United, Olympique Lyon and Juventus manage to break the record currently held by Bolivia: that of the team that went longest without scoring at a world cup?

Really, how can you have Henry and manage to field a team that can't score goals?
(well I know why: because Domenech won't play Trezeguet, the natural couple with Henry front. Because he didn't bring Giuly, champions league winner with Barcelona and whose goal kicked out AC Milan in the semis. Because Zidane is worried about his status as number one and refuses to have the team play in a manner that fits Henry. And blahblahblah)


Edit: the ref from the US-Italy game was truly excellent. All his major decisions were correct.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Oh the princesses will show up alright. The question is, will the combined striking force of Arsenal, Manchester United, Olympique Lyon and Juventus manage to break the record currently held by Bolivia: that of the team that went longest without scoring at a world cup?

Really, how can you have Henry and manage to field a team that can't score goals?
(well I know why: because Domenech won't play Trezeguet, the natural couple with Henry front. Because he didn't bring Giuly, champions league winner with Barcelona and whose goal kicked out AC Milan in the semis. Because Zidane is worried about his status as number one and refuses to have the team play in a manner that fits Henry. And blahblahblah)


Edit: the ref from the US-Italy game was truly excellent. All his major decisions were correct.

I live in the USA and I think I'm the only American who wouldn't have a biased decision about the refs because I'm a German fan. As you can see though a French man and a Dutch man (men gaining from neither side) agreed to good refs. I'd agree with them. :bow:

[Sasaki Kojiro]

Edit: the ref from the US-Italy game was truly excellent. All his major decisions were correct.

He was suspended in 2002 and not allowed to ref in the last world cup...of course they play it up more on american tv but he was certainly inconsistant.

I don't think the game result would have been different, but it would have been nice. The game itself was poor to watch, set piece goals are boring and the US made a lot of bad passes which was a letdown after watching Ghana.

[drone]

Mastroeni's red card was a poor decision by the ref, should have been a yellow at the most.

Hell of a game though. Even though their finishing was crap, at least the US showed up. Though if Arena plays Beasely against Ghana, he should be fired. With fresh legs and his pace, he just didn't do anything. All his teamates spent in the second half, and Beasely just stood around, didn't challenge any balls, didn't seem to put any effort in at all. Hopefully his last international performance, he doesn't deserve another.

Go Italy, go USA. Pretty entertaining group. :2thumbsup: Ghana looks tough though, wouldn't surprise me if they win the group outright.

[InsaneApache]

I disagree, Mastroeni's tackle was mis-timed and two footed. He clearly played the man not the ball (he'd get a warning in the backroom for that :laugh4: ) furthermore it was completely unnecessary just in front of the Italian penalty box. What did he think he was doing?

Aside from that, a great game of footy. Lots of passion and commitment. The US had to run their legs off to stay in the game and rose to the challenge, kudos to them.

The Italians (much like the Portuguese) got more and more frustrated and it affected their moral as it became obvious that they were not going to break down the US defense. Keller, IMO, kept them in the WC with a cracking one handed save at the end.


Originally posted by InsaneApache
There's more chance of a creationist embracing Darwinism.

I'm glad I didn't say I'd eat my hat, I dont like bacon, eggs, fried bread and trilby.

[Rodion Romanovich]

Damn I missed Italy-USA... It seems like I missed out on a great game...

Ghana 2 - Czechs 0 was both a disappointment and a pleasant surprise. Ghana deserved the victory but I had hoped the Czechs would be better than they were. As it seems now, they aren't that good, and it's even doubtful if they continue to 2nd round - Italy and Ghana probably will instead (Ghana have USA left to play while Czechs have Italy left to play, Ghana has 3 points and Czechs have 3 points, plus Ghana won internal meeting between Czechs and Ghaha).

[Dutch_guy]

Well, being a fan of the team that received the smelly end of the stick I can't believe you're serious about the ref. Pope's two yellows, OK, if we're going by the letter of the law...but when does any ref go by the letter of the law? Mastroeni's was a yellow, plain and simple. Has been all tourney, why the sudden change in interpretation? And, I've seen Drogba take a swipe at a ball when he was "passive" and the goal stood... are you saying THAT ref was wrong:oops:



Well my friend, Pope should not have tackled from behind, with an outstreched leg and in front of the referee. That's asking for it. Also a referee likes to appear unbiased, meaning that when he gave a red card to the italians he was itching to give one to the Americans, to even it up again - it's what you usually see in a match, especially if a referee made a very bad call and thus appeared ill favoured towards a particullar side. It's no written rule,but it does happen quite a lot really.

Keeping that in mind I wasn;t surprised when Mastroeni got a red card, only moments before had the ref. given the Italians a red one, for that horrible elbow to the face :skull:

ALso I didn't really understand Mastroeni's intention...it was what, another 2 minutes to half time ? You don't take risks like that when you're almost there.


Do I sound biased:idea2:

A bit yes, but it doesn't matter, we all want our team to do well ~:)

:balloon2:

[DukeofSerbia]

And BTW, Serbia is a good team and didn't deserve a 6-0 loss (of course they did play pretty bad, but they're worth more). And Duke of Serbia, Germany does have the best manpower, but they are the best.

Serbia good team?! :laugh4:

Nemanja Vidić is injured on training bz Mateja Kežman. Ognjen Koroman and Dejan Stanković had fought in training before game with Argentina. Yesterday, on press meeting couch Petković accused media for disastre! I just cant't believe.:wall:

[DukeofSerbia]

Mastroeni's red card was a poor decision by the ref, should have been a yellow at the most.

Hell of a game though. Even though their finishing was crap, at least the US showed up. Though if Arena plays Beasely against Ghana, he should be fired. With fresh legs and his pace, he just didn't do anything. All his teamates spent in the second half, and Beasely just stood around, didn't challenge any balls, didn't seem to put any effort in at all. Hopefully his last international performance, he doesn't deserve another.

Go Italy, go USA. Pretty entertaining group. :2thumbsup: Ghana looks tough though, wouldn't surprise me if they win the group outright.

Mastroeni's red card was clear. He tackled with both legs. New rules say that is immediately exclusion


Italy - USA was one of the best game so far in World Cup, especially second half. http://www.sk.co.yu/forum/images/smilies/custom1/alealeee.gif

[The Black Ship]

Well my friend, Pope should not have tackled from behind, with an outstreched leg and in front of the referee. That's asking for it. Also a referee likes to appear unbiased, meaning that when he gave a red card to the italians he was itching to give one to the Americans, to even it up again - it's what you usually see in a match, especially if a referee made a very bad call and thus appeared ill favoured towards a particullar side. It's no written rule,but it does happen quite a lot really.

Keeping that in mind I wasn;t surprised when Mastroeni got a red card, only moments before had the ref. given the Italians a red one, for that horrible elbow to the face :skull:

ALso I didn't really understand Mastroeni's intention...it was what, another 2 minutes to half time ? You don't take risks like that when you're almost there.



A bit yes, but it doesn't matter, we all want our team to do well ~:)

:balloon2:

So if I tell you that ref is going to control your game against Argentina...you're cool with that? Not worried by the way he interprets the rules of the game...I mean it's not as if Van Persie or Van Nistelroy have ever made a rash tackle, right?

Oh and BTW, Mastroeni's call was the make up call, so why did he feel the need to have another make up call with Pope's tackle from the SIDE?

[Rodion Romanovich]

Today is the great day - Brazil vs Guus Hiddink. To simplify a bit - will unmatched tactical skills beat unmatched technical brilliance ~:)?

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Damn I missed Italy-USA... It seems like I missed out on a great game...

Ghana 2 - Czechs 0 was both a disappointment and a pleasant surprise. Ghana deserved the victory but I had hoped the Czechs would be better than they were. As it seems now, they aren't that good, and it's even doubtful if they continue to 2nd round - Italy and Ghana probably will instead (Ghana have USA left to play while Czechs have Italy left to play, Ghana has 3 points and Czechs have 3 points, plus Ghana won internal meeting between Czechs and Ghaha).

You think the Czech's are going down? Did you see them play against the United States? They're amazing. They're one of the only teams, in my opinion that can take on Brazil. They will not lose out.

[Rodion Romanovich]

You think the Czech's are going down? Did you see them play against the United States? They're amazing. They're one of the only teams, in my opinion that can take on Brazil. They will not lose out.
Yes they're amazing, but now their top 2 scorers are injured - Koller and Baros. I saw them win vs USA, and USA then did a tie with Italy (which I didn't see), while Italy beat Ghana. So there might be a circle of incompatible tactics meaning that Czechs losing to Ghana doesn't mean they're worse than Italy even without Koller and Baros. But I must say the Czechs looked a lot weaker with Koller out. Even when Koller doesn't score in an attack, the threat he poses usually draws a lot of defensive strength away from others that it opens the paths for other skilled scorers. And Baros has the speed required for scoring in quick breakaways. The good news is that both Koller and Baros are back for quarter or semi finals, but the way there will be tough for the Czechs - they need to beat the spaghettis first ~:), then they'd need to take on Brazil in the 2nd round IIRC. Would be a shame if the injuries of Koller and Baros prevented the skilled Czech team from reaching the finals.

Edit: btw if Italy got many warnings and match penalties from the earlier two games it's possible the Italians won't be able to field a good army for the crucial encounter next weak, in which case even a by injury weakened Czech team will have good chances of wining the crucial victory needed to advance.

[Dutch_guy]

So if I tell you that ref is going to control your game against Argentina...you're cool with that?



Well yes I am, that ref. did a good yob in my opinion.


Not worried by the way he interprets the rules of the game...I mean it's not as if Van Persie or Van Nistelroy have never made a rash tackle, right?


Well no I'm not worried really, I found the ref. to be a good one yesterday and I do hope our players don't go elbowing other players or tackling for behind, also I'm a bit more worried about those players that already have a yellow card, if they get another one they're suspended for their next match - meaning against either Portugal or Mexico.

But as those players you mentioned don't have a yellow card at the moment, I'd say the chances they're getting one in a game with nothing at stake is pretty slim


Oh and BTW, Mastroeni's call was the make up call, so why did he feel the need to have another make up call with Pope's tackle from the SIDE?

Well I found Pope's tackle kind of a stupid thing to do with one yellow card already owned, and sliding in from the side in front of a referee who isn't afraid to send you off the pitch isn't the best thing one could do.

:balloon2:

[The Black Ship]

Cool, when you quote it says "citaat"...never noticed that before.

I chose those two players because, having watched the EPL for years, I've seen them perform the Mastroeni tackle with great frequency. Ask an Arsenal fan if they believe Ruud would do such a thing:laugh4: Don't worry about the other players...yellows get wiped clean in the next round, unless those players get red they're safe.

Have you watched the Crotia/Japan match? By that (Larrionda) refs standards there should have been 4-5 yellows by now... and it's only early in the second half

I know I have to get over it...I'm trying.

[Dutch_guy]

Cool, when you quote it says "citaat"...never noticed that before.



Indeed, took me a while to notice that too.


I chose those two players because, having watched the EPL for years, I've seen them perform the Mastroeni tackle with great frequency. Ask an Arsenal fan if they believe Ruud would do such a thing:laugh4: Don't worry about the other players...yellows get wiped clean in the next round, unless those players get red they're safe.

I'm not surprised really, the EPL is a somewhat tougher league than the one here in Holland.



Have you watched the Crotia/Japan match? By that (Larrionda) refs standards there should have been 4-5 yellows by now... and it's only early in the second half



Well as it wasn't the best match I've ever seen I just watched bits and pieces of it, I saw the missed penalty, but I didn't really pay attention to the referee - as he wasn't too dominant from what I saw.


I know I have to get over it...I'm trying.

It takes time, it takes time. :2thumbsup:

:balloon2:

[scotchedpommes]

Oh the princesses will show up alright. The question is, will the combined striking force of Arsenal, Manchester United, Olympique Lyon and Juventus manage to break the record currently held by Bolivia: that of the team that went longest without scoring at a world cup?

Really, how can you have Henry and manage to field a team that can't score goals?
(well I know why: because Domenech won't play Trezeguet, the natural couple with Henry front. Because he didn't bring Giuly, champions league winner with Barcelona and whose goal kicked out AC Milan in the semis. Because Zidane is worried about his status as number one and refuses to have the team play in a manner that fits Henry. And blahblahblah)

I'm struggling to understand why Giuly wasn't included, really. He's a pain in the
neck for anyone when he starts his runs and links up with passes for Barca. I
think he'd really bring yet another cutting edge to the French team. Maybe just
another princess though?

France will pull something off - if not, I think it'll be hard to deal with the
resulting fallout.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Australia better beat the pants off Brazil. :laugh4:

But seriously...~:pissed:

[doc_bean]

Croatia -Japan was rather lame, especially the second half...

[Dutch_guy]

Croatia -Japan was rather lame, especially the second half...

How did it turn out ?

0 - 0 ?

:balloon2:

[scotchedpommes]

0 - 0, yes.

Aussies doing well against Brazil so far - had some bad offside calls against them,
and one of their players just stopped a run thanks to a whistle from the crowd.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

0 - 0, yes.

Aussies doing well against Brazil so far - had some bad offside calls against them,
and one of their players just stopped a run thanks to a whistle from the crowd.

Go Australia! If they win or even tie, I'll be so happy. :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:

[Red Peasant]

From what I've seen so far, Italy and Brazil are both overrated. Italy were particularly poor with the US dominating possession and the play before going down to nine men. The tackles that led to the dismissals for the US were really stupid and totally unnecessary. But the referee was correct, no doubt about it, and if I was their coach then I'd be mad as hell with those players.

Just watching Brazil v. Aus game and the ref seems determined to protect the Brazilians no matter what. Every 50/50 decision has gone their way so far, and god help you if you so much as breathe on Ronaldihno. Aus are playing well, and they potentially carry an attacking threat that the US so obviously lack.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I HATE BRAZIL!

Australia will come back. They'll tie it up. I hope...:help:

[Sasaki Kojiro]

Brazil is a lot of fun to watch. When they got it together for a bit near the end of the game they just ran circles around the aussies. The reffing was much better in this game. One of the best games I've watched this world cup.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


~:pissed: ~:pissed: ~:angry: ~:mad ~:mecry: ~:mecry: ~:mecry: :furious3: :furious3: :wall: :sad2: :furious: :bigcry: :stare: :angry:

[Dutch_guy]

Oh well, the Aussies did what they could and had some great chances to tie the game, Brazil on the other hand played at about 60 % I reckon - they're capable of much more.

Hope they manage to grow into the tournament.

Well let's hope Australia beats Croatia next game !

:balloon2:

[Rodion Romanovich]

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


~:pissed: ~:pissed: ~:angry: ~:mad ~:mecry: ~:mecry: ~:mecry: :furious3: :furious3: :wall: :sad2: :furious: :bigcry: :stare: :angry:

GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! MUUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
I agree I don't like Brazil's play. It's static, slow and boring to watch, not anything like the speed and entertainment of Argentina or Portugal, or the tactics of Germany and Holland, or the mix of those that Italy can be from time to time. Brazil are just walking around in the field for 70 minutes, then they score a few lucky goals because they have the worlds best long-distance shots. And as a fan of Turkey last world cup I'll never forgive them for Rivaldo's simulation that incorrectly gave a red card, and in the same game some Brazil player's simulation incorrectly gave a game-winning penalty shot.

[doc_bean]

Brazil has great players, they just don't come together as a team. That pass by Ronaldo was a great move though, nice to see him not trying to score himself and ruining it for a change. I hope the Aussies go on, they certainly seemed better than Croatia...

[Red Peasant]

Well, some people watched a different Brazil to me, very pedestrian. The first half was terrible, but it picked up a little in the second although it was hardly a gripping contest. Argentina and Spain have been the standout teams so far, but little can be read into World Cup group games and results.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

I want Brazil to fail miserably.:skull:

[Dutch_guy]

Well, some people watched a different Brazil to me, very pedestrian. The first half was terrible, but it picked up a little in the second although it was hardly a gripping contest. Argentina and Spain have been the standout teams so far, but little can be read into World Cup group games and results.

Indeed, Spain always manages to get out of the groups un damaged, but then never quite does what it's supposed to do - win.

As for Argentina, they usually do well and are therefore one of the favorites to win the cup. Personally I hope they win, as they've made the best impression overall in my opinion.

Of course I'd love it if we won, but it's still a long way to the finals...

:balloon2:

[Justiciar]

Fred saves the day. :laugh4:

[LeftEyeNine]

What I predict is happening for the early stages of the cup. Though they are far behind of how they are expected to play, you will be stunned with Brazil's play in the further rounds. :2thumbsup:

[Alexanderofmacedon]

And Henry finally gets one...eight years later ~;)

[Cha]

GOAAAAAAAAALLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Hmm...

Cha: is location R.O.K = Republic of Korea?

That was a funny little goal you guys got!:2thumbsup:

Sort of felt sorry for France. Rooting for them a bit.

[Quid]

Am sorry to have to say this but France wholly deserved not to win this match. There is no fight in that team any longer (hasn't been for a while). What on earth is the coach thinking?

Very sad to see one of the best footballers the world has ever seen in absolute desolate form. Zidane should perhaps never have come back to the team and finish his career a tad earlier. I sort of feel for him...

Well, never mind. That blows the whole group open wide...It's going to be interesting.

Quid

[Louis VI the Fat]

What to say, what to say...

The team is playing against itself. The will to perform is there, they are trying. That much I see now.
Zidane really is a metaphor for the entire team. He's struggling, he does want to do it one last time, but he's fighting a lost cause, his legs have abandonded him.

I don't care even about the disallowed goal (that header was so far over the line it was untrue) or the scrappiness of the Korean goal. With the talent France can still field, you should overcome bad luck. They should've pushed on after the Henry goal, go for a second. There was no fantasy, no spirit, no playfulness.

Oh and I will quarter Domenech when he returns, what with bringing on Trezeguet only in the 91st minute, for f's sake! :furious3:
The guy is clueless, he can't make up his mind or face up to tough decisions.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

What to say, what to say...

The team is playing against itself. The will to perform is there, they are trying. That much I see now.
Zidane really is a metaphor for the entire team. He's struggling, he does want to do it one last time, but he's fighting a lost cause, his legs have abandonded him.

I don't care even about the disallowed goal (that header was so far over the line it was untrue) or the scrappiness of the Korean goal. With the talent France can still field, you should overcome bad luck. They should've pushed on after the Henry goal, go for a second. There was no fantasy, no spirit, no playfulness.

Oh and I will quarter Domenech when he returns, what with bringing on Trezeguet only in the 91st minute, for f's sake! :furious3:
The guy is clueless, he can't make up his mind or face up to tough decisions.

How about the Indian guy Louis. You think he's any good?

[Soulforged]

Oh and I will quarter Domenech when he returns, what with bringing on Trezeguet only in the 91st minute, for f's sake! :furious3:
The guy is clueless, he can't make up his mind or face up to tough decisions.
I think "they" (refering to everybody) should make fútbol democratic, some people just don't have any idea of what they're doing. Forget about France being one of the oldest teams in this World Cup, what the hell is Trezeguet doing with his ass on the bench?!!!! Is Domenech crazy or something.
Another rant: The match between France and South Korea was one of the of the most boring matches I've ever seen, if it was for France they could have held the ball for the rest of the match after the first goal without nothing else happening, and Korea was content with losing... I mean, people, come on, this is the World Cup let's end with speculation and with this kind of actitude for people's sake...:no:

Another thing: Louis if I was you, and if Domenech puts only one man on the front again, I would be preparing the guilliotine right now...

[Kralizec]

As for Argentina, they usually do well and are therefore one of the favorites to win the cup. Personally I hope they win, as they've made the best impression overall in my opinion.

Of course I'd love it if we won, but it's still a long way to the finals...

:balloon2:

We're up for a huge beating next wednesday...but a man can hope :balloon2:

[Louis VI the Fat]

How about the Indian guy Louis. You think he's any good?I thought you'd be interested in him. Vikash Dhorasoo is they only 'Desi' (South Asian) player in the tournament. He's from Mauritius, and is the living proof that Indians can play football. He's a creative midfielder, not world-class like Zidane or Viera, but very good nonetheless. He plays for Paris St-Germain.

Quick linky. (http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/w/player/181838_DHORASOO_Vikash.html) You should be able to google some videos if you search for his name.

The French team used to be even more multi-etnic a few years ago, with players from Polynesia, the West-Indies, the Magreb, West-Africa, Armenia. Well over a dozen different parental nationalities were the norm, although the emphasis now is on West-Africans or mixed-race, as you could tell from watching them.

[Louis VI the Fat]

Dp.

[Alexanderofmacedon]

Supposedly the first player of Indian Decent to make it to the World cup. Maybe I'll be the second ~;)

[AwesomeArcher]

Man that Ghana-Czech game was awesome. Sorry if i am a little late i was gone all weekend at a soccer tourney. My whole team was packed into a hotel room watching the game. We went crazy when Ghana scored and again everytime they had an opportunity to score. We got to watch most of the U.S. game, the ref lost total control of the game and screwed it all up, which i see you guys have already discussed. When the U.S. got their second goal called back most of the team started cussing and we got a lot of complaints from the others in the hotel, but it was worth it.

[scotchedpommes]

What to say, what to say...

France should've put the result beyond doubt. While I did want to see a good
performance from them, I was pleased enough with Henry's goal. I've never
liked Barthez, add to that the humour of the pundits having a laugh at Gallas,
and then perhaps I can say I'm almost pleased with the overall result. ~;)

[English assassin]

Oh dear oh dear. The disallowed goal was unlucky but its quite right, you have to kill these games off against lesser sides. 1-0 at 80 mins is asking for an upset. Not that Korea deserved a draw. I was actually supporting France (solely in the interests of justice. Normal prejudice will be resumed shortly.)

Barthez eh. Its some sort of gallic joke, has to be, but like mime, I'm trying to work out why its funny.

[Ianofsmeg16]

Good game between France and Korea, in the end anyway, when France suddenly realised they might not win.

In other news, my England shirt has finally arrived! not got anyone on the back yet, those little numbers and letters are too expensive

[Quid]

Oh, we're bloody hopeless! I can't believe we're doing a 'Frenchie'! Score that boody second goal and the match is over...

Quid

[Dutch_guy]

We're up for a huge beating next wednesday...but a man can hope :balloon2:

Indeed. Let's hope for the best.

:balloon2:

[Quid]

Oh, we're bloody hopeless! I can't believe we're doing a 'Frenchie'! Score that bloody second goal and the match is over...

Quid

That was a tough piece of work. In the end, we won just as I had predicted. Switzerland clearly being the better and more controlled team on the pitch with a few clitches that could have led to disaster...

Quid

[Big_John]

switzerland looked pretty weak imo. s.korea is the best team in this group. france is the most talented (whether they choose to show it or not). they should be the two to move on, s.korea will beat the swiss and france will beat togo.

i'm getting tired of watching there refs taking over though.. this last game, spain/tunisia was more of the same. spain was the better side, but they were gifted that last goal by the ref.. and this ref was wildly shaky all day. fifa, your admonitions are hurting your product, take heed.

[Soulforged]

We're up for a huge beating next wednesday...but a man can hope :balloon2:Don't worry we believe the same... honestly I think it will be a boring draw, but time shall tell.:2thumbsup: