The FIFA World Cup (Football/Soccer)

[Set 1]

So, is everyone ready for the World Cup starting this weekend?

:101:

[durcam]

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[jdrock24]

So, is everyone ready for the World Cup starting this weekend?

:101:

Yeah. I'm ready. I hope the U.S. can make a run. However, they have never played well on european soil. From what I've read, it's Brazil's to lose.

[fartman23]

Group of Death = suckage.

The U.S. got hosed. It'll all be decided with the first game against Czech...a very tough team with tons of EC experience.

I've seen a lot of people picking against Argentina in the first round. That's harsh...people will lose it down there if it really comes true.


--FM23

[Jaaaaa]

my type
1. Brazil
2. Holland - my favorite
3. Poland - my country :D

[AlanSharer]

I think it was 635 days to go when I posted my first football thread (at Hookupboard). Now the official FIFA-countdown is at 13 hours and 58 minutes. My vacation starts now, one month of ONLY football followed by another month of recreation :) Life is good!

I was bored yesterday, so I made a list comparing the number of players in the Champions League who are also representing their respective countries in the World Cup. The idea was to figure something out, i guess:

Last 8 (Benfica, Barcelona, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter, Villareal, Lyon, Milan):
Brasil - 12 players
Italy - 11 players (only in Italian teams)
Portugal - 8 players
Frankrike - 8 players (4 from Lyon)
Argentina - 7 players
Spain - 6 players (3 from Barca)
Switzerland - 4 players
Sweden - 3 players
Holland - 3 players
England - 3 players (only Arsenal players)
Mexico - 2 players
Croatia - 2 players
Czech Republic - 2 players
Ivory coast - 2 players
Angola - 1 player
Serbia - 1 player
Germany - 1 player
Togo - 1 player
Ukraine - 1 player
Australia - 1 player

Last 4 (Milan, Villareal, Barcelona, Arsenal):
Italy - 5 players
Brasil - 5 players
Spain - 4 players
Switzerland - 3 players
Argentina - 3 players
Holland - 3 players
England - 3 players
Sweden - 2 players
Mexico - 2 players
Ivory coast - 2 players
Germany - 1 player
France - 1 player
Togo - 1 player
Czech Republic - 1 player
Australia - 1 player
Croatia - 1 player
Ukraine - 1 player
Portugal - 1 player

Last 2 (Barca-Arsenal):
Spain - 3 players
England - 3 players
Holland - 3 players
Brasil - 2 players
Sweden - 2 players
Switzerland - 2 players
Ivory coast - 2 players
Portugal - 1 player
Argentina - 1 player
Mexico - 1 player
Germany - 1 player
France - 1 player

Conclusions? :013:

[Mies]

Conclusion: Brazil will kick some major ass, but I still have my hopes high for Argentina.

[RAZORMAID]

Germany 4, Costa Rica 2...Germany was clearly the superior side.

[lion]

what a surprise Equador won from Poland 2-0

[jdrock24]

what a surprise Equador won from Poland 2-0

That was a surprise. And Poland hitting two off the post in the final minutes. Not a good way to start if your Polish...

[zebulon]

That was a surprise. And Poland hitting two off the post in the final minutes. Not a good way to start if your Polish...

In this group it makes the door wide opened for Germant if hey bit Poland !!

[Ptit Philou]

World football for one month ! yahoooooooooooo !
The last for Zizou, the good for Henry, and the jewel Rib?ry ! Go France !

[AlanSharer]

Germany will probably win group A.. Not because they're bloody good or anything (Klose & Schweinsteiger, Frings & Lahm combined with the new ball are, but their defense was extremely erratic), it has more to do with the general crapness of the other teams in the group. It almost seems.. planned?

Potentially great games on day two, though.. England-Paraguay will most likely be a very tight game.. Then Argentina-The Ivory Coast=:004:

[AlanSharer]

Congratulations to Trinidad from Sweden. I haven't seen that many defenders in the box at the same time for 90 minutes since Greece won the Euro, well done.

Eventhough we would have liked to get the 3 points, in the end we're just very very happy none of our players was seriously injured today.

[Doomfury]

See, thats the glory of The World Cup right there. On day two, no less. I honeslty thought I could snooze through the Swed/T&T game (because getting up at 9am on a Saturday is VERBOTEN. I would only do so for England or Italy maybe the USA if they were playing England or Italy.......) but I am really glad I didnt as that was a fun as hell game to watch. Sweden played soooo bad you thought they were throwing it (wait! stop the press!!!!! Ibrahimovic plays for Juve doesnt he? Makes me wonder......). The T&T goalie was fucking outstanding. I just hope my Three Lions fare much better than Sweden did!

[PhoeniX27J]

Just 2 let u all know...Holland is gonna win the WC finally...

[Hemohes]

Good games yesterday, not so good today.... The England game was especially crappy :/

[Mr.HotStuff]

well I can guarantee my country will not lose a single game in the WC - BUT i KNOW THEY WONT WIN IT:)

[squonk]

I would like Czech Republic to win the world cup.

[AlanSharer]

Bloody hell, Argentina and Ivory Coast really performed :D
The group of death will indeed be.. well.. the group of death.

[PhoeniX27J]

My prediction from 2day is Holland will win with 2-0...erm my time is now 11.51 AM...

[AlanSharer]

Looking forward to seeing van Bastens lads in... 46 minutes!
I hope they do well, it's a rather radical team this time!
The Serbian defense is (normaly) very strong, but if anyone can see to that it disintegrates it would be the orange fellows :)

[Andean Highlander]

This kind of football is boooring! I hope Netherlands and Brazil will perform some good classic futebol!!! The Argentinians played like Robocops, that was nasty... :)

[fartman23]

It goes without saying that anyone reading this thread probably already knows this, but the U.S. got *drilled* Monday afternoon (ET) against the Czech Republic...it was 3-0, and frankly, it wasn't even that close. Ugly.

--FM23

[jdrock24]

It goes without saying that anyone reading this thread probably already knows this, but the U.S. got *drilled* Monday afternoon (ET) against the Czech Republic...it was 3-0, and frankly, it wasn't even that close. Ugly.

--FM23

That was ugly. It looks like our futility on european soil continues...

[AlanSharer]

USA were very unlucky to end up in same group as Ghana, Italy and the Czech Republic. It looks rather tricky for them, but.. two games remaining!

The really bad thing about the game in my opinion wasn't USA's perfomance (they were ok, just not ok enough to beat Nedved and company), it was the injury on Koller. He will probably be unable to play again in the tournament :/

[Ptit Philou]

Tomorrow the beginning of France....one nation keeps its breath, ready to shout or to cry........

[coolcalo2003]

Go Aussie what a spectacle

[Hard Drive]

Go Aussie what a spectacle
AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE!!!

Tim Cahill is our savior

[fartman23]

The really bad thing about the game in my opinion wasn't USA's perfomance (they were ok, just not ok enough to beat Nedved and company), it was the injury on Koller.


I agree...Koller's injury is great news for the Italians, but he's got more than a week to heal. As to the question of whether the US's performance was okay, I have to disagree...they spent far too much time on the retreat, and the skill men in the middle absolutely didn't show up. How many times did crosses and such go uncontested in front of the Czech net? Anyway...I'll be watching Saturday, but I don't hold out much hope....

--FM23

[fartman23]

Well that French/Swiss game sort of sucked. France still hasn't scored a World Cup goal since 1998. If ever people wanted to understand why soccer doesn't catch on in the U.S., that game is Exhibit A. Can't wait to see Brazil play.
--FM23

[Doomfury]

Well that French/Swiss game sort of sucked. France still hasn't scored a World Cup goal since 1998. If ever people wanted to understand why soccer doesn't catch on in the U.S., that game is Exhibit A. Can't wait to see Brazil play.
--FM23

Very true. Its getting to the point where I am going to start feeling sad/bad for the French. There is sooo much talent on that team I cant fathom why they cant even score a goal! I wanted the Samba Boys to just come out and rip the Crotia team apart. Unfortunately, that didnt happen

[fartman23]

Yeah...even the Brazil game was too mellow. 1-0, guys?

--FM23

[Ptit Philou]

Very true. Its getting to the point where I am going to start feeling sad/bad for the French. There is sooo much talent on that team I cant fathom why they cant even score a goal! I wanted the Samba Boys to just come out and rip the Crotia team apart. Unfortunately, that didnt happen

You are all so right about the French team......here in France people hesitate to go in Germany to kiss the French coach ass or to make him the surprise when he will come back ! lol

Seriously, some players seem to have made their time, sad to say, but Vieira played awfully, just to talk about him only.....

We all hope that the next match will be the good one.........

[Ptit Philou]

Yeah...even the Brazil game was too mellow. 1-0, guys?

--FM23

Yes but what a goal ! Kaka is impressive !

[Andean Highlander]

Ooooh... It's so sad Poland lost that way... :( Well, the door's open now for our Ecuador neighbours, they're heading for the second phase! :)

[fartman23]

Ooooh... It's so sad Poland lost that way... :( Well, the door's open now for our Ecuador neighbours, they're heading for the second phase! :)
It *is* sad. It was a pretty boring game, but what a finish. I can't wait for the knockout round...too many teams playing it too safe in the preliminary matches.... Brazil will be incredibly fun to watch once the games get to single-elimination.

--FM23

[wangz0r]

the u.s. dissapointed me :(

[fartman23]

Rule Brittania. England beats a game T&T squad, 2-0, with both goals coming with under 10 minutes left in the game. Beautiful cross from Beckham on the first goal (where was Posh?). England don't look good enough to win the whole thing, but they're on to the second round. England/Sweden may still be a meaningful game, though, for Sweden. We'll see.

--FM23

[booyaatribe]

mexico looked ok in their first match. what happend to the u.s.? and it doesnt get any easier against italy....

[AlanSharer]

England/Sweden may still be a meaningful game, though, for Sweden. We'll see.

Indeed. 0-0 would be a nice result.. but if we know our Sven properly, England will try to kill us. Looking forward to that game :)

I seriously felt for Paraguay today. They're a very good team that didn't really deserve to end up in the same group as Sweden and England :(

[Doomfury]

Wow! Argentina may just be the team to beat this time around. They look pretty damn good. If Brazil and Italy dont pick up their pace and tootsweet like they will be looking at an early depature time! That game was awesome! (The ongoing Dutch/Ivory Coast first half wasn't bad either. Second half is just starting.....)

[crazysexycool]

That's why I support Sweden!

http://news.yahoo.com/photos/ss/1756;_ylt=AmNuqeKp.uGPEoxMOiONqTpPXLoF;_ylu=X3oDMT Bia2Jza2VjBHNlYwNnYWxsZXJ5

[reysizzelchest]

people let me just say this




ARGENTINA!!!!!!!!!!!!! i LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[fartman23]

I'm not sold on Argentina yet, but we shall see. Spain was just as impressive in their first match, and they've got the flair to upset someone like Brazil. (Not saying it will happen, but the possibility exists....)

--FM23

[fartman23]

Wow, and how about Angola with the tie against Mexico. And Iran is currently locked in a 0-0 with Portugal early in the second half.

--FM23

[fartman23]

Wow, and how about Angola with the tie against Mexico. And Iran is currently locked in a 0-0 with Portugal early in the second half.

--FM23
Doh...no sooner did I speak than Portugal scored on a lovely goal (against Iran).

--FM23

[AlanSharer]

Czech Republic - Ghana 0-2 in the actual group of death.

[Obieobieobie]

Czech Republic - Ghana 0-2 in the actual group of death.
Amazing game! Ghana worked their asses off and it really paid off!

[AlanSharer]

Amazing game! Ghana worked their asses off and it really paid off!

Indeed. (Slightly off topic I'd like to add that Ghana-sub Derek Boateng plays for AIK in Sweden. Not very interesting, really, I just had to mention it because I'm an AIK hooligan. He was even wearing an AIK-wristband :))

The result makes group E a lot more interesting. If the USA for some strange reason should beat Italy (about as likely as Barca signing me), we'd have 4 teams on 3 points in the same group. Just imagine the final round!

Kick off in 4 minutes, forza Italia!

[Doomfury]

That was the weirdest game. Ever! Its too bad when a ref. plays such a decisive role but I guess thats just part of the game too. I thought the USA played vastly better than they did but they still have yet to score a goal. If Ghana's plays like they did today and given USA's redcards they might be in a world of hurt!

[Xirius]

Well done USA!

It's been a exciting world cup so far. Lots of matches where the "worse" teams holds out for the "better" teams. Hard to predict something right now.

Go Sweden!

[jdogg571]

Hopefully the US can win on Thursday and advance.

[fartman23]

What a strange game. Italy was offsides about 20 times, USA one, but the what a one! (It was a good call, but took away an American goal.) I have to say that Italy's red card was well-deserved (the blood on the American's face matched the card), and the yellow that led to Pope's ejection was valid, but the call on Mastroeni was so horrible, an investigation should be launched. Can you imagine if the call had been reversed, and had gone Italy's way after a U.S. player had been ejected? The world would say America had bought the game! Terrible. The tie was a fairly just result, though I'd be interested to know if you Italy fans out there feel your team played well enough to win or tie. From my perspective, it looked as though America carried the play all the way through, say, the final 15 minutes, when everyone was exhausted.

--FM23

[AlanSharer]

I'd be interested to know if you Italy fans out there feel your team played well enough to win or tie. From my perspective, it looked as though America carried the play all the way through, say, the final 15 minutes, when everyone was exhausted.

I'm sort of a fan of The New Italy - they really impressed me in the last game - but mainly I'm neutral. My take on the match is that Italy slightly underestimated the opposition, and that the USA in turn were a bit too enthusiastic/brutal, hence all the cards. In my opinion the referee did a great job considering the circumstances (total chaos). The second yellow after the Pope/Gattuso-incident was probably a mistake, it looked like he reached for it without remembering that Pope allready had a card. Had he remembered I'm pretty sure he'd settled for just a free kick. However, the USA got away with a lot of foul play (for instance Bocanegras amputation attempt on Perrotta), so maybe it was deserved..

According to me the final score was fair. The final 15 minutes was like the 12th round of a boxing match, with two very tired sluggers not being able to knock eachother out. Italy is the more sophisticated side obviously, but they looked uninspired. The attitude of the USA was proper compensation for the teams slightly lower level of finesse (McBride, Keller and Beasley not included in that statement).

Good game, though! The two final games in this group should be bloody intense. My prediction is a draw Italy-Czech Rep. and a Ghana victory :)

[AlanSharer]

And yeah, tomorrow will be a good day for France, I hope!

[fartman23]

Great analysis, AlanSharer, thanks. I may have been a bit biased watching the US/Italy match, so it's good to get an unbiased opinion. I still don't think that first red on the U.S. was warranted (a yellow would've sufficed), but I see your point about over-aggression on the U.S. side. I hope that Ghana game will be as emotionally charged as Saturday's tilt...that was about as stirring as soccer gets....

--FM23

[fartman23]

Croatia 0, Japan 0...the heat was the big winner. Lifeless stuff. Hopefully Brazil/Australia will be more attractive (coming up in an hour)...

--FM23

[Doomfury]

I never thoght I would say this but Brazil games are BORING! Plus, they look entirely beatable. If they play like this against say Argentina, Argentina will pick them apart. The first game of the day I actually fell asleep. I dont expect much more from the France/Korea game either. I expect Korea's fitness to trump France's........whatever they have. It sure as hell aint much lately.

[fredrau]

Australia held Brazil scoreless for the first 50 minutes, I don't know it that is an embaressment to Brazil or a compliment to Australia's defence (maybe a bit of both)

[RAZORMAID]

Not a fan of Brazil and was hoping for an Aussie upset.

[fartman23]

Not a fan of Brazil and was hoping for an Aussie upset.
Brazil *is* the favorite, and my natural tendency is to root for underdogs, but they (normally) play such lovely soccer...it's hard to root against them. Ronaldo did make an incredible pass early in that game...up over his head, lovely stuff. But I agree...it was another very slow game. One imagines that they'll be better in the knockout round (possibly trashing the U.S.). Spain is still the best team I've seen so far, only because they team *they* trashed (Ukraine) is very, very good....

--FM23

[AlanSharer]

I suspect Brazil will play themselves into form, but they haven't been at all impressive so far. Kaka seems to be in top form though, and if he can influence his team mates they'll go far in the tournament. Don't think they'll win, both Italy and Argentina looks stronger (not forgetting Spain, as Mr Fartman pointed out), but a place in the semis seems probable.

And the Swiss just now scored a bloody nice goal :D

[RAZORMAID]

The only thing I liked about Brasil was Dunga...I named one of my beagles that :004:

[PhoeniX27J]

I think Holland will play Brazil in hte finals and Holland will win...

[Doomfury]

FUCK ESPN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let me repeat myself just incase you missed that!
FUCK ESPN AND THE HORSE THEY RODE IN ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
Jesus Christ, its like pulling teeth for ESPN to show any kind of football/soccer outside of the WC but what are they showing after the Spain/Tun game? Fucking Dominoes!!!!!!!!!!!111 Its not even a fucking sport!!!!!!!!! I hope they all burn in hell for their poor judgement and horrible taste!

[wish]

Well Ill chip my bit in here and say come on England.

Sweden game tommorow and a victory will mean 9 points , Unbeaten in the group and a tasty chance of the Germans in the next round.

Haven't beaten Sweden since 1968 but judging by the Swedes last two games Ive got a good feeling about this one. Dont think they are playing at there best but hey what do I know. England haven't started brilliantly but they still have those 6 points.

To me I would relish the Germans in the next round. How good that would be (for me anyway) to knock them out of there own World Cup.

So come on Ecuador . Knock the Germans into second so we can play them Saturday.

(By the way I reckon Argentina will win) theres confidence eh

[Welsh Maximus]

Haven't beaten Sweden since 1968 but judging by the Swedes last two games

To me I would relish the Germans in the next round. How good that would be (for me anyway) to knock them out of there own World Cup.
Haven`t topped the swedes since `68??? That`s :013:

It`ll be a shame if England v Germany doesn`t come up in this WC...I haven`t watched the Germans play yet,but they`ll beat Ecuador surely?

[AlanSharer]

Haven't beaten Sweden since 1968 but judging by the Swedes last two games Ive got a good feeling about this one. Dont think they are playing at there best but hey what do I know.

Well, if there ever was a time when the English could end our 38 year undefeated run, now would be it. We are about as semi decent as we usually are, but the current England squad is potentially the best I've ever seen.. Looking forward to the game..

Good luck to England.. and should you actually win, we will take pride in the fact that we at least have Sven :)

[fartman23]

The only thing I liked about Brasil was Dunga...I named one of my beagles that :004:
Beagles rock! I have two.

--FM23

[fartman23]

Wow, that Spain game was crazy. I was feeling like quite an idiot for hyping them so much over this past week, but then bang-bang-bang, three goals and you're out. They're explosive. I'd love to see Spain/Brazil.

--FM23

[Doomfury]

England......fucking typical! Jesus Christ........

[qwertyell]

England are so shit it's untrue.

Talk about a bunch of over-hyped, over-inflated egos.

Beckham can't even run anymore - probably weighed down by his wallet.

Shit.

[fartman23]

England are so shit it's untrue.

Talk about a bunch of over-hyped, over-inflated egos.

Beckham can't even run anymore - probably weighed down by his wallet.

Shit.
It's hilarious that England actually *won* their group, and you guys are this pissed. But yes, that was pretty damn un-clutch. They'll beat Ecuador, though, and in the quarters play Portugal or the second-place finisher between Argentina and the Netherlands. You're right...they're probably not playing well enough to win that game...but it could be worse. You could be rooting for the U.S.

--FM23

[jdrock24]

I'm glad that Mexico went though. But how can you miss a penalty kick in that situation? Can you imagine what would have happened to that guy if his missed PK cost Mexico a trip to the elimination rounds?

As for the other group, that Argentina/Dutch game was a real snooze fest. I turned over to the Ivory Coast/S&M game after a few minutes. It was much more entertaining even if nothing was at stake.

[crazysexycool]

Did you guys thought France was stolen against korea? Viera header was in by a foot! and then Korea scores a dum goal, like Senegal did in 2002.
Now with the hand ball against the Swiss on Henry's kick, that's 2 potential victories taken from France. Oh well.
Could be good News if they pull if off against Togo. A slow start with now low expectations might help the team. Remember Italy in 1982? 3 draws in qualification and then they win the World Cup, after their striker Rossi woke up, and had a hat trick against Brazil in the semis.
Can Henry do this for France?
Anyhow, if France goes through, they meet Spain... Their first real test.

[fartman23]

Well, I've been pimping Spain for two weeks, so I have to say I think they'd beat France.

--FM23

[fartman23]

This just in: Germany is good.

--FM23

[crazysexycool]

...yeah, it was over after 10 mn. Larson and Abra were tired.
Mexico did well against Argentina. Argentina needed an amazing goal in extra time to win. So far the favorites are through.

Tomorrow Holland-Portugal!!! that should be amazing!

[Mies]

As an argentinian I can?t say that I?m very happy with the situation, I mean it?s great to beat Mexico and all, but it?s goint to be a lot harder against Germany, specially considering the way Argentina performed today, Mexico shouldn?t be a problem for us and yet we had many trouble to win that game.

[fartman23]

As an argentinian I can?t say that I?m very happy with the situation, I mean it?s great to beat Mexico and all, but it?s goint to be a lot harder against Germany, specially considering the way Argentina performed today, Mexico shouldn?t be a problem for us and yet we had many trouble to win that game.
It's an unlucky draw for Argentina. It seems clear that their youth is much readier than people (read: the tourney organizers) thought to be a contender. On a neutral pitch, I give Argentina a great chance to beat Germany. But on home soil, it's going to be tough. This should be a semifinal or final match, not a quarterfinal. But you plays 'em where they lie, I guess.

--FM23

[fartman23]

England up 1-0 in the 77th minute against Ecuador, by the way.

--FM23

[squonk]

ARG has the worst draw, and I agree with fartman23, the match against GER should be a semi or a final. Even if ARG beat GER, the semi is goint to be against ITA. Dont you think it was enough being in the Group of Death?

[Mies]

ARG has the worst draw, and I agree with fartman23, the match against GER should be a semi or a final. Even if ARG beat GER, the semi is goint to be against ITA. Dont you think it was enough being in the Group of Death?
Absolutely, think about Brazil, they where in the easiest gorup and now they go against Ghana. I?m not saying that the cup is fixed in favor of Brazil but things always seem to go smooth for them.
About England-Ecuador, I was hoping a triumph for the Southamerican team, but I guess England desserves to pass to the next round.

[qwertyell]

Another game, another terrible referee - Ivanov (or whatever he was called) sends off four, books another eight (a total of sixteen yellow cards in a game with just twenty-five fouls made) as the Portugal/Holland match becomes a total farce.

The refereeing in this tournament has been the worst ever. By the time anyone makes it as far as the final, they'll be lucky to have any players left to pick who aren't suspended.

Inept.

[jdrock24]

The officiating has been atrocious. That Netherlands/Portugal game was a joke. The ref totally lost control of the game.

However, it looks good for England. They now get to play Portugal who will have two guys suspended and C. Ronaldo out hurt. Actually, I don't think it's clear yet if Ronaldo will play or not. But still, Portugal will be shorthanded because of a terrible ref.

[crazysexycool]

England did not look so good. I vote Portugal even without Deco and C. Ronalco.

[fartman23]

England did not look so good. I vote Portugal even without Deco and C. Ronalco.
I think England will win...I'd have taken the Netherlands against the Brits, but I'm not a big believer in Portugal's eternal "potential." Too bad the Dutch lost...they can be a fun offensive team to watch. This World Cup has been dreadful, really, on the whole. I agree with all the comments about the refs, in spades, and it seems there's more of a premium than ever on clutching, grabbing and, worst of all, diving. This is why Brazil should win...they're about the only team that doesn't do as much of that...they're just far more skilled. It reminds me of the NHL a couple years ago...they had to get rid of the neutral-zone trap to get the game flowing again. FIFA are probably trying to get similar results (the hockey playoffs were *awesome* this year) by having refs call more, but instead of laying off one another, the players are simply diving around more than ever. Horrible.

--FM23

[crazysexycool]

This World Cup has been dreadful, really, on the whole. I agree with all the comments about the refs, in spades, and it seems there's more of a premium than ever on clutching, grabbing and, worst of all, diving. This is why Brazil should win...they're about the only team that doesn't do as much of that...they're just far more skilled. It reminds me of the NHL a couple years ago...they had to get rid of the neutral-zone trap to get the game flowing again. FIFA are probably trying to get similar results (the hockey playoffs were *awesome* this year) by having refs call more, but instead of laying off one another, the players are simply diving around more than ever. Horrible.

--FM23

Even with Bad refering, I'm enjoying this world cup a lot. Most of the great teams are through, no more crap like Turkey and S.Korea in the semis... So we should continue to see great games with great teams.

2 comments on refs:
1- When will they introduce video support???? They can keep the game going but just check when there is PK (handball, diving etc..) and when the ball crosses the line or not. Checking Off-side might be more tricky, but would be amazing.
2- More cards does not equal less fouls as Holland-Portugal showed. The ref lost control of the game in the first 20mn and he started to card everybody, most of them were justified, but it was way too late. Again, good refs can control games without carding, that has not changed.

[qwertyell]

I've had to stop watching the Switzerland/Ukraine match.

Worst. Game. Ever.

[fartman23]

Good point, crazysexycool...Turkey and South Korea in the semis of a World Cup isn't the height of fun watching. I have to say, though (and maybe this is just a faulty memory that doesn't go back four years), that I don't recall so many bad games, in terms of teams refusing to try and score, and matches that were decided directly by officiating. Would anyone have been sorry to see that final Italy call ignored with a "play on"? Australia earned a shot at OT and PKs...I suppose it was a foul in the box by the letter of the law, but just as we hope refs won't call Dirk Nowitzki for a phantom foul at the end of a game, World Cup refs should put the whistle away when it means the game. Maybe it's fair by the letter of the law, but in the end these matches are intended for the enjoyment of spectators, and there's no way FIFA can tell me that ending earned enjoyment. Heck, I was rooting for Italy, but it left a crap taste in my mouth.

--FM23

[Hard Drive]

ARRRGGGHH!!!

What a stupid way to bow out of the World Cup... :(

[lion]

I've had to stop watching the Switzerland/Ukraine match.

Worst. Game. Ever.

I agree worst game ever

[squonk]

Spain is out!!! what is the problem with those guys??? Every world cup the same story...

[crazysexycool]

Wahoo, France has just became a contender! I wrote them off prior to the cup, even if they have tons of talents. But no team. That has changed.
If Zidane can find Henry, they can beat Brazil. Still a long shot... Could be the best game of the cup.

[Ragnorak]

As an Australian i am disappointed that we were knocked out of the World Cup in such a fashion. For some reason all the major referee errors i've heard about so far have only occurred during Australian matches, possibly due to Australian media only caring about the Australian team.

However what the Socceroos managed to accomplish for a team that has failed to qualify for the World Cup for 32 years is outstanding. Although we were getting the short end of the stick with having only the Oceanic league to play against then have to defeat a team from Europe or Asia just to qualify.

Hopefully now that Australia has been allowed to compete in the Asia league our team can now gain more experience and perhaps make it to the finals next time around }; )

[fartman23]

Well, so much for my pimping Spain. I was set to write a scathing post about the officiating in this game...I thought the first French goal was clearly offsides, while the second one was set up by a blatant dive by Henry...but that third goal was such a thing of outright beauty, that I'll shut up. Besides which, the Spain goal was set up by a stupid call in the box for a PK. France deserved it. I agree with crazysexycool...I'm really looking forward to the Brazil/France tilt.

--FM23

[fartman23]

Oh, and I'm with Ragnorak...just a terrible call to let Italy go through like that. I feel terrible for the Aussies...they could very well be favored against Ukraine with a chance to go to the semis....

--FM23

[jdrock24]

Even with Bad refering, I'm enjoying this world cup a lot. Most of the great teams are through, no more crap like Turkey and S.Korea in the semis... So we should continue to see great games with great teams.

2 comments on refs:
1- When will they introduce video support???? They can keep the game going but just check when there is PK (handball, diving etc..) and when the ball crosses the line or not. Checking Off-side might be more tricky, but would be amazing.
2- More cards does not equal less fouls as Holland-Portugal showed. The ref lost control of the game in the first 20mn and he started to card everybody, most of them were justified, but it was way too late. Again, good refs can control games without carding, that has not changed.

I enjoy new blood in the later rounds of the World Cup. I don't want to see the same teams over and over again. In this one, the only team that could be considered an underdog is Ukraine. The rest are the same old standbys we see all the time. B-o-r-i-n-g....

I'll tune in to the remaining matches if I don't have anything else to do. But I won't be paying as much attention as I was in the Group stage.

[crazysexycool]

Now what do we do for 2 days????

[Humpie]

Now what do we do for 2 days????

Watching tennis -> W I M B L E D O N :lol:

[zebulon]

Nobody talks about France who kicked off Spaine ! Saturday we are playing Brazil in quarter final. Nobody knows what can happens !!

[zebulon]

Just 2 let u all know...Holland is gonna win the WC finally...


Sorry but Hollandis already off the game. This is in fact when you have seen the way they have been playing against Portugal ! So brutal !

[fartman23]

Predictions:

Italy over Ukraine
Argentina shocks Germany
England over Portugal
Brazil over France

What do you all think?

--FM23

[jdrock24]

Predictions:

Italy over Ukraine
Argentina shocks Germany
England over Portugal
Brazil over France

What do you all think?

--FM23

I agree with all of those except that I think Germany will beat a tired Argentina squad.

[MPXX]

... In this one, the only team that could be considered an underdog is Ukraine.


Ya that's because it's their first World Cup ever, and they're doing pretty good for their first, heading into the top eight.

As their head coach said, all they want this time around is to be remembered, and their match tomorrow with Italy should get them in the books; hopefully it will be a better match than the one against Switzerland...

[fartman23]

I agree with all of those except that I think Germany will beat a tired Argentina squad.
Truth is, I probably agree with you, but I had to pick at least *one* upset. :-)

[jdrock24]

Well, Germany won on PKs. That was a pretty close game.

I forgot to ask something after the last overtime game. Why did FIFA get rid of "The Golden Goal"?

[qwertyell]

Well, Germany won on PKs. That was a pretty close game.

I forgot to ask something after the last overtime game. Why did FIFA get rid of "The Golden Goal"?

Because FIFA are always fucking around with the rules for no apparent reason - which is why none of the referees seem to know how to properly officiate the game.

The Golden Goal was briefly replaced by the Silver Goal (honestly, I'm not making this up) which meant that, if someone took the lead in the first half of extra-time, the result would be called at half-time without the need for the second half. :106:

Of course, they gave up on that, and have gone back to the original extra-time rules from way back when.

I'm sure FIFA will dream up some new and 'exciting' way to fuck with the rules and damage the game some more soon enough...

[jdrock24]

Because FIFA are always fucking around with the rules for no apparent reason - which is why none of the referees seem to know how to properly officiate the game.

The Golden Goal was briefly replaced by the Silver Goal (honestly, I'm not making this up) which meant that, if someone took the lead in the first half of extra-time, the result would be called at half-time without the need for the second half. :106:

Of course, they gave up on that, and have gone back to the original extra-time rules from way back when.

I'm sure FIFA will dream up some new and 'exciting' way to fuck with the rules and damage the game some more soon enough...

I see. So they really had no reason to get rid of it. They just screwed with the rules to make the game longer or something? I kinda liked the concept of the Golden Goal. Oh well...

[Mies]

I?m really pissed. Yesterday I thought we didn?t have a chance against Germany but after Ayala?s goal I was sure that we had that game. The referee was a joke and Germany played really bad, I guess the only bad thing I have to say about Argentina is that they didn?t put to much effort on the atack. Anyway, Germany sucked and won and is clear to me that penalties are not fair, though I can?t complain considering Argentina?s performance in Italy in 1990.
Speaking of Italy, they?re up against Germany in the semi-finals and I think Germany will win again, will we withness another Germany-Brazil final?

[reysizzelchest]

today is not a good day..........:022:

[Mies]

WOW, Brazil is out!!!! France played an amazing game and Zizou was the star of the match, it?s incredible how bad Brazil played considering the quality of their players. I?m still sad about Argentina being eliminated but I can?t deny that seeing England and Brazil out makes me a little, just a little happier.

[crazysexycool]

If Zidane can find Henry, they can beat Brazil.
I hate to quote myself, but I should have gone to Vegas!

New prediction: France will loose to Germany in the final. As much as France was the only team that could beat Brazil, historically the French can't beat Germany. And... The French will loose a few key players for the final due to yellow cards in the semis.

[jalen]

<3 Henry :)

[D'Artagnan]

Go Italy!!!

[zebulon]

I hate to quote myself, but I should have gone to Vegas!

New prediction: France will loose to Germany in the final. As much as France was the only team that could beat Brazil, historically the French can't beat Germany. And... The French will loose a few key players for the final due to yellow cards in the semis.

We have first to beat Portugal and we will be very lucky if afterwards we do not have any seriously injured player when you condider their brutality in playing.

If we win against Portugal we will also win the final ion Berlin against eiter Italy or Germany , you will see that we are on the way to our second star !!

[squonk]

Go France!! Germany showed that against great temas is not the same, even Italy beat them...If Zidane play a 50% of the game against Brazil, France is the champion.

[zebulon]

Go France!! Germany showed that against great temas is not the same, even Italy beat them...If Zidane play a 50% of the game against Brazil, France is the champion.

You are right ! What a poor match between Italy and Germany, none of them deserves the title of world champion, but I am glad that Italy made it ! Will see tomorrow against Portugal !

[D'Artagnan]

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS

Italy, goooooo Italy.

I went out and got 2 Italian jersheys the other day.

[jalen]

World Cup 2006 Final : France vs Italy

I think this will be an intresting final.
hope there will be many goals.
My bet is 2-0 to France (Henry, Trezeguet)

and your bet ?

[MPXX]

http://www3.shrani.si/files/who676096.jpg

The battle of the colours...

[fartman23]

World Cup 2006 Final : France vs Italy

I think this will be an intresting final.
hope there will be many goals.
My bet is 2-0 to France (Henry, Trezeguet)

and your bet ?
I think France wins, too. It's too bad so many of these later-round games have featured such capricious refereeing. Fouls in the box should have to be bloody *murder* before a referee awards a penalty shot...it's just lame, because Portugal/France was shaping up to be such a lovely game, and then France gets the PK, they crawl into a shell for the rest of the game, and the soccer turns dreadful. Here's hoping they settle it on the field with some offense on Sunday, with no PKs....

--FM23

[jalen]

http://www3.shrani.si/files/who676096.jpg

The battle of the colours...

haha :) france ^^

[Humpie]

I'm working for an Italian company but I think that France will win
the final. :010:

[jdrock24]

I think France will beat Italy. But then again, I thought Germany would beat Italy, so what do I know?

[zebulon]

I think France wins, too. It's too bad so many of these later-round games have featured such capricious refereeing. Fouls in the box should have to be bloody *murder* before a referee awards a penalty shot...it's just lame, because Portugal/France was shaping up to be such a lovely game, and then France gets the PK, they crawl into a shell for the rest of the game, and the soccer turns dreadful. Here's hoping they settle it on the field with some offense on Sunday, with no PKs....

--FM23
I think that your coment about the PK is absolutely unappropriate. If you have seen the game you have probably noticed that Thierry Henry's leg has been blocked by a Portos and that penalty was well deserved . On the other hand it is too bad that our team won on penalty but at least we haven't simulated as the Ports have particularly the young Ronaldo who is enough talented without using such unfair moves. I think that we deserve our victory !

[zebulon]

http://www3.shrani.si/files/who676096.jpg

The battle of the colours...

This is a good one ! But the colour will be blue !

[psychoegg]

I think france will win as well. Italy shouldn't have gotten as far as they did in the first place. If they can switch their game around from a defensive snoozer to an offensive one... you never know...

[RAZORMAID]

Too close to call. I had to see the semi-final games on video tape and the Germany/Italy game had a cliffhanger finale...wow :043: So at this point I don't know who'll win..and that's good.

[fartman23]

I think that your coment about the PK is absolutely unappropriate. If you have seen the game you have probably noticed that Thierry Henry's leg has been blocked by a Portos and that penalty was well deserved . On the other hand it is too bad that our team won on penalty but at least we haven't simulated as the Ports have particularly the young Ronaldo who is enough talented without using such unfair moves. I think that we deserve our victory !
How short is your memory, zebulon? What about Henry's incredible dive in the game against Spain, in which he pretended to have been punched in the face, while replays clearly showed no contact was made? And while I definitely did *not* say that Henry wasn't tackled in the box, I'm not the only one to bring up the question of his diving:

http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/sports/story/0,4136,109648,00.html

I just hate to see games decided on PKs. To say Portugal was the only one diving is ridiculous; if they dove more in the second half, it was because they believed the referee believed he "owed them one," because, well, he did.

--FM23

[RAZORMAID]

Let's take a quick SG-1 sample :042:

[Doomfury]

Italy 2-1 with a late goal by Zambrotta!

[D'Artagnan]

Italy, woot!

Got my Italian Jershey all laid out for tomorrow.

[RAZORMAID]

I'm in the don't know club, I honestly can't call this one just yet :042:

[KanMan]

I just put france becuase it didnt have a vote, I've seen italy play twice and im guessing they are the favorite.

[frank_beans]

definetely italy but only by one goal, 1-0.

[lion]

I think Italy, they are the surprice this WC

[Swann]

??? Italy and France have soccer teams ???

I guess I fall somewhat into the third catagory. :D

[funk]

i'll go with italy because italian chicks are hotter

[zebulon]

None of you know a damn thing about soccer. Italian are playing defence because they can't play another way. France is pretty offensive and should make it, not easily but we will. Allez les bleus and allez Zizou !

[zebulon]

It's absolutely normal that an english guy would hate to see France winning football game plus the fact that England has been ridiculous in rugby when playing the 6 nation tournament in Paris this year. That's probably too much for you !!

You newspaper can't be neutral.

[Hard Drive]

I want France to win... coz Italy beat Australia cheaply

[peja]

i hope france will win the match - coz Italy beat Germany... and the women of france are damn hot too

[durcam]

None of you know a damn thing about soccer. Italian are playing defence because they can't play another way. France is pretty offensive and should make it, not easily but we will. Allez les bleus and allez Zizou !

I think you meant , offensive minded hahahahaha Viva La France!!..........:075:

[wish]

If Italy play with the same passion as they did against the Germans they will walk it.

2-0 Italy

And that prediction is from an Englishman. I would never normally support Italy but I really think they are the superior team.

I will of course apologise to any Frenchman on the board if Im wrong

[snoH]

And the winner is... :041: FRANCE :041:
I hope that France wins tomorrow!

[zebulon]

If Italy play with the same passion as they did against the Germans they will walk it.

2-0 Italy

And that prediction is from an Englishman. I would never normally support Italy but I really think they are the superior team.

I will of course apologise to any Frenchman on the board if Im wrong

If you sincerely mean it you don't have to apologize but wegonna make it. We have never lost a final against Italy and our black defence is like a wall .

Remember in rugby this year my english french , you were supposed to beat us to death in Paris and you have received a correction !

[Andean Highlander]

ITALIA, the best football we?ve seen in decades!

[jalen]

Zidaneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

[MichaelJordan]

I will bet anyone $100.00 that a European team is gonna win the world cup! :lol:

[Creamy Goodness]

I wanna see France win but Italy has yet to allow an opponent to score (the only goal they conceeded was an own goal)

[Mies]

I think it?ll be France and will see an exibition of talent by Zidanne. But if Zizou can?t play very well, like he did in some previous games, then Italy will have a very good chance to get their fourh cup.

[fartman23]

None of you know a damn thing about soccer. Italian are playing defence because they can't play another way. France is pretty offensive and should make it, not easily but we will. Allez les bleus and allez Zizou !
I'm with zebulon on this one...I think France is bolder offensively and will be rewarded....

--FM23

[fartman23]

It's absolutely normal that an english guy would hate to see France winning football game plus the fact that England has been ridiculous in rugby when playing the 6 nation tournament in Paris this year. That's probably too much for you !!

You newspaper can't be neutral.
Argh. I don't hate to see France win...I don't have a dog in that hunt. Don't care. I'm American, and our team blows. I just hate diving, and I thought both teams (France and Portugal) did their fair share, and I hate to see it. Here's hoping we get some straight-up great play on Sunday. France can win if they press the matter offensively. I'd love to see it.

--FM23

[zebulon]

Argh. I don't hate to see France win...I don't have a dog in that hunt. Don't care. I'm American, and our team blows. I just hate diving, and I thought both teams (France and Portugal) did their fair share, and I hate to see it. Here's hoping we get some straight-up great play on Sunday. France can win if they press the matter offensively. I'd love to see it.

--FM23
I am sorry Fartman, I thought you were an englishman making once again fool of us ! You are absolutely right , diving is very unfair (don't forget that Thierry Henry plays at Arsenal and it works there !!

[JadeGiant]

I haven't watched any of the matches so I can't make an educated judgment. Looks like a great match in the making though!

[RAZORMAID]

What happens if neither side scores after regular play time and extra time, and when they go to penalty kicks, each side scores ony 3? How do they decide a winner?

[D'Artagnan]

They continue penalty kicks until they have winner I believe. Well actually they might have "Golden Goal" after regulation, which is basically just overtime. But I think the first goal wins. Sometimes they just add extra time too. The rules are pretty stretchable lol, from what I understand anyways.

I think France will win, but I'm Italian, so it's natural for me to vote for Italy.

[durcam]

What happens if neither side scores after regular play time and extra time, and when they go to penalty kicks, each side scores ony 3? How do they decide a winner?

I think them mofos just start beating the shit out of each other , last man standing team win's :lol: :lol: :lol: or they continue to shoot PKs till 1 team misses or run's out of players , if still tied , replay. My way sound's much more exciting though............:075:

[sousou]

2 great team with very strong defenses .........

zidane & Thierry henry for france

cannavaro & Zambrotta for italy

although there's a little advantage because the french attack is stronger , le's not forget that italy's counterattacks could cause serious damage


so my guess is...the game will end on a 0-0 score , and then will come freekicks , where france will probably win

[frank_beans]

hopefully italia will take the cup rathen than france.

[fartman23]

I am sorry Fartman, I thought you were an englishman making once again fool of us ! You are absolutely right , diving is very unfair (don't forget that Thierry Henry plays at Arsenal and it works there !!
Heh...no problem. And I'll be rooting for the French on your behalf, zeb...

--FM23

[Alex40000]

What happens if neither side scores after regular play time and extra time, and when they go to penalty kicks, each side scores ony 3? How do they decide a winner?


D'Art got it in some way, but theres nohing strechable. Both sides kick their five penaltys. If the score is even, they continue with 1 penalty each until after both sides shot the same number of penaltys you have an uneven score.

for example:

3 - 3 after regular

4 - 3 still the opponent got his left

4 - 4 even again!

4 - 4 first team missed! second team has to hit to win

4 - 4 second team missed too.. stillgoing on....

4 - 4 first team missed again

4 -5 second team hit and won.

Something like this.

Golden goal is just for the longered playtime, but that rule is optional and doesnt aply to international matches. Maybe for friendly games if both decide to take it, but not on FIFA, UEFA or whatever-cups.

Aaaand although Italy kicked us (the germans) out of the cup, i hope they do it. They earned the victory in the half finals and i feel, the french team is overrated.

Italy or the win! (although thex kicked us out grrrrr ;) )

[sousou]

What happens if neither side scores after regular play time and extra time, and when they go to penalty kicks, each side scores ony 3? How do they decide a winner?

after Five Free kicks , if the score is even , there's sudden death free kicks , the first team that misses loses .....

[Mr.HotStuff]

I voted Italy - it is a 12 thing :D

after Five Free kicks , if the score is even , there's sudden death free kicks , the first team that misses loses .....


a little edit

1st team to miss if the other scores -loses - otherwise it just keeps going-
and going -
and going

[RAZORMAID]

currently 1-1 at half time....:053:

[Mr.HotStuff]

my GOD -Barthez should be shot - how did he not save that header

come on Italy

[RAZORMAID]

Italy it is :053:

[sousou]

FUCK fuck fuck !!

france lost on freekicks

[RAZORMAID]

I thought Rooney was a hot-tempered fuck but Zidane takes the cake. If he didn't let his stupid ego and stupid temper get the better of him, he would have taken that penalty kick for France. They should tar and feather his bald-head ass when he gets back to le francais.

[fartman23]

I thought Rooney was a hot-tempered fuck but Zidane takes the cake. If he didn't let his stupid ego and stupid temper get the better of him, he would have taken that penalty kick for France. They should tar and feather his bald-head ass when he gets back to le francais.
Terrible. Never seen anything like that head-butt.

--FM23

[Humpie]

To give Zidane the red card was quite rightly. It doesn't matter how great
name you have but you have to behave yourself on the field especially a
great footballer as Zidane. :105:

<img src="http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/5556/zidane8uq.gif" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us" />

[Mr.HotStuff]

FUCK fuck fuck !!

france lost on freekicks


ah yes - but they one on Headers :010: :010:

[Mr.HotStuff]

BTW this poll should be closed by now :D

[saga1979]

The Best Match..france-brasil, Zidane Fantastic!!!!

[crazysexycool]

Anybody interested? Anybody knows how to watch it in the States if you don't have satellite (ie Setanta)?

For background:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rugby_World_Cup

and

http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/

The first game starts on Friday 9/7 between the host France and The Argentinians' pumas. Should be plenty of broken teeth and dislocated elbows!

[Mr.HotStuff]

come on the Irish:)

[zebulon]

come on the Irish:)

You must be kidding HotStuff. Do you realize that World Cup will be in France this time and the final will be New Zealand versus France and we gonna make it !

[Ptit Philou]

France : 20
New Zealand : 18

England : 12
Australia : 10

North Hemisphere is alive !!!!!!!!!!

[Creamy Goodness]

can't believe Australia lost again to the POMS

[zebulon]

France : 20
New Zealand : 18

England : 12
Australia : 10

North Hemisphere is alive !!!!!!!!!!

You're right brother plus the fact that we gonna play England next Saturday in Paris in semi-final . One more step to the supreme title of world champ. Go France !!!!

[hixxy]

England France today. Come on ENGLAND!

[jalen]

sure :D france ftw

[Ptit Philou]

England 14 - 9 France

That was very tight, but the French team made too many mistakes to beat England...

Damned we were so close !!!
It would be funny if final was England - South Africa....a deadly revenge for England after the 36-0 defeat two weeks ago against....South Africa !
But Argentina has not said its last word !!

[hixxy]

Get In! We are in the final... AGAIN!

Who would have thought after we got crushed by South Afirca that we would end up being where we are. Thats pure grti,determination and self belief for you.

Cant wait for the final, another awesome night in town get smashed :)

[benco74]

Ireland will win the RWC 2011

[myles]

Who is travelling to SA to watch their team play in the Soccer World Cup next year?
What's everyone's expectations of the country?

[sgt5150]

So, who are you guys rooting for?

[Sniper]

Give me $5

[adrenalina]

go argentina go!!

[thgy]

USA, and will be most peeved if we don't manage to at least get out of the group!

[skip2mylou]

Spain FTW!!!!!

[proxy105]

like beckenbauer said spain england and brazil are favourites...im gunnung for england...but the spanish tean is sooo talented....jus look at their strike force villa and torres...but if rooney stays fit he might make the differece...

[sharky]

france & spain

[proxy105]

france & spain

if they go on to lift the trophy it will be sheer injustice...but its happened b4..i wudnt be suprised if they win it....like milan won the champions league the yr they shudve been knocked out beacause of the bribing case...

[tdog]

As an American, I'm rooting for America. Best case scenario for group stage is a win or draw vs England and wins vs Algeria and Slovakia and finishing top of the group for the easier 2nd stage opening game. Worst case is losing badly to England and then losing to either Algeria or Slovakia and going home.

USA should be ready. Several American players have had success in club play this year. Donovan and Howard have been great for Everton, Dempsey has come up huge for Fulham, Davies will be ready to go, Altidore has been good for Hull, Onyewo has been getting great experience with Milan and the MLS season just started which will help many of the players (including Donovan).

[proxy105]

As an American, I'm rooting for America. Best case scenario for group stage is a win or draw vs England and wins vs Algeria and Slovakia and finishing top of the group for the easier 2nd stage opening game. Worst case is losing badly to England and then losing to either Algeria or Slovakia and going home.

Onyewo has been getting great experience with Milan.

I think he's hardly played...unless u mean being around more experienced players like nesta has helped him mentally.......

I think england for u guys are gonna be bit tough..but u guys hv got some good plyrs....but dont discount algeria they have a pretty decent squad and hamsik for slovakia can win games foe them...

[tdog]

Yeah, the whole experience thing hasn't been from playing in the field but from improving his work ethic and learning from several world class players.

The problem with USA is geography. The only other top level team on the continent is Mexico. Costa Rica can't produce once it leaves their astro turf field and Honduras is new to the party. In Europe there are a dozen great national teams within a days drive and established national club leagues.

Even sitting on the bench for AC Milan and training with them is comparable to playing in the MLS given the skill difference. Many American players realized that and with the Confederations Cup success last year, many European clubs are willing to sign a Yankee now. Altidore in particular could be a huge force for years to come.

[proxy105]

Altidore in particular could be a huge force for years to come.

Yup saw him play a couple of times this season...he looks like a decent enuf player..quite a physical specimen if u ask me.....but donovan's speel at everton has got to take the cake..he was absolutely fabulous

the problem for u guys is that mexico are not improving.they hv a pretty average team..except for 2-3 plyrs....that way i think asian football is really progressing..all teams are steadily improving..south korea are producing some really good players atm...but i can never see my country(india) ever qualifying for a world in the next 50 -100 yrs..our infrastructure is so poor for football....but v r atleast top class in cricket..lol!!!

[tdog]

Well India is a heck of a lot better at cricket than America.

Asia is benefiting from several of the countries taking footy seriously. The only two that do in North America are USA and Mexico. Canada doesn't care as they care about hockey and most of Latin America, the Carribean and Central America don't have the infrastructure to be serious world contenders. Costa Rica, Honduras and Trinidad and Tobago are the second level of North American football and they can't get any long-term traction since their governments are so corrupt and inept. Honduras made the World Cup inspite of the civil war going on in their country (not to mention a 95th-minute equalizer by USA vs Costa Rica).

[proxy105]

You guys could do what australia did...the joined AFC for qualification...u guys could join the south american qualification process(like a joint qualification for CONCACAF and CONMEBOL)...and increase the qualification spots from 4 to 6...but then there is the risk of finishing below other south american teams..but in order to play more quality this is the only step which looks possible.....i fear most for mexico as i see them in decline..if they can groom their young players well then there would be no problem...

[tdog]

A joint North/South American qualification process would be very interesting. Give the countries serious about it better competition and the countries who slide their way in more reason to try harder.

Mexico will be fine as long as they can continue to play in Estadio Azteca. It's at 6,000 ft and has the worst air pollution in the world. It's the reason Colombia, Peru and Ecuador have great home records in qualifying although FIFA went after them.

[proxy105]

A joint North/South American qualification process would be very interesting.

FIFA went after them.

For sure..it will be good competition nd the south american teams will face a different sort of opponent in america in terms of team organisation..

Yup remember..i think it was colombia..i remember argentina really complained about it once....man i bet in colombia they have coke in the air at that altitude too..lol!!.i must visit :yes:...

[tyre]

I can't wait until 6/12 for the USA-England game! It's gonna be epic, already making plans to have a bunch of people over. Besides the USA team, I'm also rooting for Italy.

[IDEALIST]

I can't wait to watch spain tear shit up! :) It would be so great to be in SA!

[Humanly]

Which team are you rooting for?

[ecko999]

To be honest I'm not into soccer that much, but I would root for Brazil.

[Humanly]

Yea Brazil is the World Cup favorite for now.

[tfk777]

Gotta root for the USA. Don't care for soccer too much but still gotta support the team.

[zhaowei]

After yesterdays game, it's Germany!

[proxy105]

england here..though im not english..

[hixxy]

England!

[IronSlash]

To be honest... I won't root for any teams because I'm from Canada... Well, what can you expect from a hockey country :p But I got some French friends so I'll just say them good luck and same for anyone here ;)

[rfss4]

make the noise stop!!! lol

[ducatis]

USA all the way! don't watch much but sports are always a good reason to drink!

[viceroyuther]

gotta go for the u.s.

[RazorBlade]

I'm guessing Argentina!!

[PhreakHacker]

I'm not Brazilian but I've watched them play growing up; reminds me of the good ol' days whenever I see them in action. =)

I was rooting for Italy as well but they've given a pretty bad performance so far in the World Cup, minus the last 25 minutes of the last game.

[hollywood_noel]

I will tell you guys...I'm American, currently in Hong Kong for a business trip. When the US beat Algeria 1-0, with a goal in the 90th minute.....AMAZING!!! There were non-Americans running through the streets of Hong Kong yelling "USA!! USA!! USA!!" It was absolutely incredible!

[sephopower]

I think Sri Lanka will take it all.

[Harry Tasker]

Spain Wins in extra time

[aymsports]

WAIT FOR THE NEXT 4 YEARS IN BRAZIL 2014, I wonder what ARRIVAL OF PLAYERS THIS WORLD CUP

[superdupe]

Spain played tough throughout the tourney, they deserved to win. Little disappointed in the USA's run, but they fought hard.

[kryptkeaper]

Hey, it's hard to be disappointed in a country whose general populus doesn't recognize football as a sport. They outlasted a lot of good teams and not by some stroke of luck; they were genuinely good this year, despite the fact that the average person who plays doesn't make it past junior leagues for 10 year olds.
Spain's a great team. Their midfield is stacked, and the manager wasn't afraid to give priority to players who were better fits. I wish Torres would have put in a better show this year, and not just with Spain. Rough year for a lot of stars.