Zidane's Headbutt Discussion and also some stuff on that FIFA World Cup 2006 thing [Archive] - Page 2

Croyles

06-14-2006, 10:53 PM

1-0
Late but fully deserved. Poland played much better than their last game against Ecuador, and their goalkeeper was on top form.
For germany, Lahm had another brilliant game, and created a lot of oportunities. He is right-footed and plays on the left wing! Schweinsteiger had a crap game compared to the last one and was fairly substitued. Odonkor when he came on played really well but unfortunetly did not get a lot of support further back. Neuville was really good when he came on, not to mention that the arrival of Ballack helped a lot. Still didnt see much from Jens, he didnt have to work too hard, which i am worrying about since he has not had an opportunity to 'practise' or so to speak. Frings didnt do all that much. Klose had some good chances but should have finished them off really. Finally we got to see more of Podolski's skill, because despite used to playing with a crap Cologne team (he is being transferred to Bayern Munich) has had a few good chances and he is a really good striker when you see the better of him. I'd say Lahm or Ballack as man of the match.
Germany's defence was tighter than their last game. They didnt try to do any offside tricks and our sweeper always went deep (if not too deep).
I am so happy that Germany scored, I couldnt believe that they might draw against Poland (although Poland did play much better this time around).

Black humour? Germany and Poland get on very well these days, so any jokes are outdated, 60 years to be exact. So get your facts right! :p

Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit!!!!

Im looking forward to the England match tomorrow, I hope they win, because England have a good team but have been slightly unlucky in World Cups lately. But TAT should NOT be underestimated!!

Psychotic

06-14-2006, 10:59 PM

I am disappointed with Tunisia, as they had a golden opportunity to qualify. I think they're underrated and overlooked by most people...although judging from today, I can see why. They're gonna have to beat Ukraine now.

And Poland. Oh Poland. Poland, Poland, Poland. You've been another great disappointment. And you started so brightly tonight, and then let it all slip away. You're going to need a miracle to qualify now, and from the way you've played, it couldn't happen to a more deserving team.

It seems that the Neviller is out for England v T&T. I hope Sven picks Carra and not Hargreaves for the right back spot. If we lose with Hargreaves at right back, I don't think it'll be an upset :p I do think that guy gets slated too much at times for his performances in the holding role, but at right back he deserves everything he gets. Or, even better, Sven could play Stevie G at right back (Just like he did at the end of the CL final, and indeed at the end of the 3-2 friendly win over Argentina) and then throw a holding midfielder into the mix.

This will be our most dangerous game, if you ask me. I think there is a greater chance of losing to T&T than there is against Sweden, so we must be careful not to get a repeat of the Northern Ireland debacle.

Russielloyd

06-14-2006, 11:20 PM

Even so, nothing less than a win tomorrow will be a failure.

This World Cup fantasy football, i joined up today, and ive moved up one place already with 20.5 points. I'm coming for top spot!

Resha

06-15-2006, 05:59 PM

0 - 0 at half time. (England - T&T :p)

Seems to me like T&T are just lying back; they wouldn't mind a draw, and so their initial defensive play seems to me like they're desperate just not concede and lose. If they draw with England and beat Paraguay, they will go through to the next round, regardless of the Sweden - England result. (They'll have 5 and Sweden either 6 or 3, England either 4 or 7). But Jesus Christ, some determined defending there -- good stuff. Not a great showing from Robinson especially when he left goal completely open for that Stern John shot -- thank god for Terry, aye?

If and when England score, I hope Crouch does it. I hope he scores an amazing, fabulous goal and shuts everyone up. They'll all be waffling on about the 42nd minute. :/

*It's so nice to see Crouch and Lawrence together in the box marking each other. They're perfect, it's so cute! Both tall, tall, talllll people.

06-15-2006, 06:43 PM

Hahahahaha I turned the TV on just and literally the first thing I saw was downing pass to Lennon, to Beckham, to Crouch and goal. Ultimate timing :heart:

Jess

06-15-2006, 06:57 PM

...Thank fuck for that.

2-0... I love Stevie Gerrard. :heart:

Russielloyd

06-15-2006, 07:01 PM

And England are through to the 2nd round, and in true England fashion aswell.

Inspired substitution for once! Glad to see Rooney back!

Come on Paraguay, beat the swedes!

I can't be bothered to say anything else now!

Resha

06-15-2006, 07:01 PM

If and when England score, I hope Crouch does it. I hope he scores an amazing, fabulous goal and shuts everyone up. They'll all be waffling on about the 42nd minute. :/

Y'heard it here first. :p

Great shots, especially Gerrard's. There was definitely more pace and life in the game once Rooney and Lennon came on. Gotta applaud Beenhakker's tactics though -- for 82 minutes, they worked.

T&T still have a chance. Sweden have to draw/lose their next two matches (which is a bit of a hope, with Paraguay!) and T&T have to beat Paraguay with a comfortable goal margin. I think they deserve to go through, I think. I hope they do.

Russielloyd

06-15-2006, 07:09 PM

...Thank smurf for that.

2-0... I love Stevie Gerrard.
Jess, where have you been for this thread? We know you like football!:p

Yes, i think the whole of England loves Stevie G right now! :love:

Also Terry, the rock at the back, no one can break him!

~SapphireStar~

06-15-2006, 07:13 PM

Yes, i think the whole of England loves Stevie G right now!
Indeed! It was an excellent match :D Dont forget Crouchy!

Russielloyd

06-15-2006, 07:25 PM

Crouch missed a siitter but then scored, so he made up for it! so my opinion of him hasn't improved or got worse!

Croyles

06-15-2006, 07:29 PM

The game looked very edgy!
Well done though.
A remarkable similarity to the Germany vs Poland game.

Psychotic

06-15-2006, 07:31 PM

England swung back and forth between playing well, and playing terribly. Trinidad and Tobago on the other hand, played terribly throughout except for about 15 minutes at the end of the first half. Yes, T&T will probably get a lot of credit for that performance, but why? Throwing 10 men behind the ball, in between occasionally breaking every 10 minutes? Terrible, and look what it got them: Nothing. Would've been more interesting if they'd actually had a go at us.

FAO Rio Ferdinand: STOP COMING UP FOR CORNERS AND FREE KICKS YOU FLAMING GREAT PILLOCK!
FAO Paul Robinson: You seem to have forgotten the reason why you are England's #1: You are not David James. So stop acting like you are.
FAO Michael Owen: Oh dear oh dear oh dear. "I want to be the top scorer in this World Cup." Do you, Little Mickey? Do you really? It sure doesn't look like it.
FAO Aaron Lennon: I love you.
FAO John Terry: I also love you.
FAO Peter Crouch: You know I love you, Crouchatron. And I'd love you even more if you had done your dance. :D

I hope this gives an incentive to drop Lampard for a holding player, either Carrick or Hargreaves. He played terribly, and wasted a lot of good chances. That's not to say Stevie had a blinder, because he didn't, but he played better than Lampard.

In other news, Ecuador are class.

EDIT: Oh, Sven? Can we play Beckham at right-back and Lennon as a winger from now on, seeing as the Neviller is injured? Pretty please? :D

Loony BoB

06-15-2006, 08:00 PM

FAO Rio Ferdinand: STOP COMING UP FOR CORNERS AND FREE KICKS YOU FLAMING GREAT PILLOCK!
I'm not usually a massive Rio fan (I don't care what you guys say about him Wes Brown is better), but would that not be Sven's decision rather than Rio's?

Jess

06-15-2006, 08:08 PM

FAO Michael Owen: Oh dear oh dear oh dear. "I want to be the top scorer in this World Cup." Do you, Little Mickey? Do you really? It sure doesn't look like it.
FAO Aaron Lennon: I love you.
FAO Peter Crouch: You know I love you, Crouchatron. And I'd love you even more if you had done your dance. :D
I have faith that Mikey will do us proud. But I'm a Geordie, so I would say that. He won't be the top scorer though, but he'll still get us a couple. :cool:

Aaron Lennon. Wow. I never noticed how amazing he was.

RoboCrouch said he wasn't going to do the robodance anymore because he doesn't want to become a joke. :laugh:

amratis

06-15-2006, 08:23 PM

Oh my good god. We played absolutly terribly. I can't actually believe we won that match. Were they all drunk or something? We were extremely lucky to squirm to 2-0. And I hope Sven realizes that. Lampard should be shot. Yes that is exaggerating but you get the idea ;)

Doomie

06-15-2006, 08:32 PM

Go Italy.

06-15-2006, 08:46 PM

Bah humbug. We are never going to win this World Cup if we play as poorly as that. We did almost nothing until the introduction of Rooney, who hardly changed the course of the game, but seemed to inspire the team to actually try to create something. Lennon was tricky going down the right, and Crouch got into some good positions, even if his finishing wasn't really up to scratch. However, I do think we were very fortunate to come out with a two goal victory considering the way we played. Our play just isn't varied enough at the moment, and our only consistent source of opportunities is the high ball in from the right. Without Rooney our ground play isn't what it could be, and usually results in speculative efforts from Lampard or Gerrard that are generally ineffective. Defensively we're much better, with John Terry in particular dominant in our own third of the field. But the lack of a dedicated holding player might cause problems on the counter-attack against a better side than T&T. But specific criticisms aside, what matters is that based on the two performances we've seen, our England team would collapse pitifully against the likes of Argentina. Unless I see a marked improvement against Sweden, I'll be feeling less than confident about our chances of taking the trophy.

And congratulations to Crouch on not doing the dance. Way to conduct yourself with dignity, Pete.

EDIT:
In other news, Ecuador are class.Hell yes. Shock Group A winners? :D

Russielloyd

06-15-2006, 09:00 PM

06-15-2006, 09:57 PM

Sweden took a late victory against Paraguay, but were rather unconvincing throughout, and should fall at the second round if they qualify. Of course, there's always the chance that, if England beat the Swedes on Tuesday, Trinidad and Tobago could sneak in and take that second spot, and advance to the knockout rounds :D

Croyles

06-15-2006, 10:04 PM

Third game in a row featuring a very late goal that won the game for the team.

Psychotic

06-15-2006, 11:43 PM

I'm not usually a massive Rio fan (I don't care what you guys say about him Wes Brown is better), but would that not be Sven's decision rather than Rio's?Well, whoever is responsible, make it stop. We need someone to stay at the back, and although Ashley Cole can just about stop a couple of T&T strikers, I doubt he'd be able to do the same against, say, Lukas Podolski.
Hell yes. Shock Group A winners? :D Haha, maybe! In our long group-by-group analysis, you were leaning towards Ecuador, while I was in the Poland camp. Oh how silly I look! :whimper:

What the hell is wrong with Sweden? With their frontline consisting of players from Barcelona and Juventus, supported by a host of Premiership/ex-Premiership players, they really should be doing better than they have so far.

Croyles

06-16-2006, 12:16 AM

England needed to do more short passing I reckon. TAT's defence was very deep and this resulted in a lot of long plays in the first and some of the second half. Its difficult like that, but im sure England can manage to play better! Also, I doubt they'll meet anothe team that is that determined just to 'not lose' instead of win. TAT were all about defence.

The dilemma between Crouch, Owen and Rooney is a tough one.

Ever heard of a German partly supporting the English? No? Well then im a first. :p

"Bayern: We won't sell Chelsea Lahm" Now if that isnt good news after losing Ballack, I dont know what is ^^

tomamar04

06-16-2006, 06:55 AM

Gerrard played better with two wingers, they exploited the wings(of course), creating space in the middle, where Gerrard can roam free in those spaces and play the way he does for Liverpool and score great goals, like he did! :)

I would say Lampard has basically been non-exsistant so far and should put Carrick in the holding role, though Lampard won't get dropped i don't think.

Beckham as a wing back, he linked up great with Lennon on the right and created the 1st goal.

Depending on the Sweden result, if they draw or lose, then start with Owen and Rooney, if they win, Crouch & Owen.

We play like that, things will get alot better!

Whoa...you must be the first person I've met who shares my opinion about Lampard....useless in both games thusfar. We need Carrick to push Gerrard, who I believe along with Rooney and Beckham is the best player in the squad, further forward.

I hope the press don't lay into the team too badly, we didn't play well, but we still deserved to win.

Looking forward to today's games. Argentina vs Serbia and especially Holland vs Ivory Coast should be great games with attacking, and then tomorrow we can all enjoy Italy dumping the Americans out of the competition!

Resha

06-16-2006, 03:01 PM

Long night ahead for Serbia & M. If they don't do something, they're going to get thumped (much worse than they're being now). Argentina are looking brilliant, and more convincing than they ever did against the Ivory Coast. Feel sorry for S&M, though, what with Vidic and those nepotism accusations and an incomplete squad. :/

Croyles

06-16-2006, 04:06 PM

6-0
Argentina are simply amazing. Such organisation and patient build ups.
Riquelme will win me the fantasy football! I havnt bothered with the Fantasy Football at all though, probably why im second last.

Russielloyd

06-16-2006, 04:08 PM

Agentina 6
Serbia 0

Amazing performance by the argies, and we just witnessed the perfect team goal in the World Cup imo. They totally destroyed Serbia.

Messi and Tevez, two players i both like, scored, so i was happy for them. Rodriguez with 2 goals, Crespo and Cambiasso. Requelme pulling the strings to pefection.

That's what i talk about, when i say "take your chances." *coughEnglandcough*

6-0
Argentina are simply amazing. Such organisation and patient build ups.
Riquelme will win me the fantasy football!
Is that why i'm already above you in the league, after i've only been in it for two night? lol

It does look mighty tough for Serbia though, i don't think they'll pick up any points to be honest.

:) two thirds right!

Resha

06-16-2006, 04:41 PM

That Tevez goal was beautiful. But meh, the goals in the 2nd half became something of an anti-climax towards the end. Now, go Ivory Coast. :D

Croyles

06-16-2006, 04:46 PM

Old Manus

06-16-2006, 04:47 PM

SERBIA & MONTENEGRO FTMFW

Russielloyd

06-16-2006, 04:53 PM

I did say that im doing crap in the fantasy football because i havnt bothered loggin in and changing my players around. But that was an edit in a post after you had posted but before i noticed that you did, so...
I actually had Ronaldo up front! What a mistake.

Lol, so far ive only had points from the Germany and England players from the last two days. I also got another 31 points from the Argentina players today and stil got Van Der Sar and Marquez to play aswell. At the moment, its not official but i should jump up 6 places by the end of the night.

Also i forgot to say this in my other post.

SNM got whipped!
lol, that made me laugh!

Resha

06-16-2006, 05:52 PM

Ah oh my GOD what a brilliant game :D If the Ivory Coast keep playing the way they played in the first half, I'm convinced they can equalise. Fuck, what a brilliant goal from Bakary Kone. I still haven't caught my breath. And that chance Drogba had (but muffed). I'm so so so so so so intensely proud of the dogged, determined, dazzling way they played on despite being two goals down so early. Brilliant free kick from van Persie, and well -- haha, Horse's goal was mainly due to a lack of marking him by the IC players, but whatever.

Arjen Robben booked for diving ^___^ Doesn't that just make your day?? He really had it coming. :) It's a fantastically thrilling game and I'm thrilled and YOU ought to be thrilled, and with any luck -- we'll come away with a draw (at least). The Netherlands have a fair few chances too, with the awesome pace and energy of van Persie and that simulator guy. It really depends on whether the IC come into the second half playing the way they just did. I can only hope they do. :)

Russielloyd

06-16-2006, 07:37 PM

More points for my fantasy team after only being in it 2 full days, in the league. I could go 6th tonight, depending how other people did.

Woooohooo!! i rule!

I told you lot, i'm coming for top spot! :D

Croyles

06-16-2006, 08:09 PM

Sorry, i've rigged the games, better luck next time! :D

06-16-2006, 09:33 PM

Argentina are just fantastic, and they're very close to replacing Brazil as my tip for tournament winners. To break down a defence with a record lke Serbia and Montenegro's so comprehensively shows just how amazing they are gonig forward, and their defence is probably the strongest outside of Europe, too.

Holland and the Ivory Coast put on a good show too, and the Ivorians proved that they are the strongest of the African sides in this year's competition, and that had they been given a luckier draw they certainly wouldn't be out of the competition already. Lovely goal from Kone, and I thought that Romaric was great going forward at times, too. They should come back greatly improved in future tournaments.

Angola are holding Mexico at the moment, through a lack of Mexican invention more than anything. I hope the Africans get the result, since it would be unfair for them not to take anything from two spirited performances against Portugal and Mexico.

EDIT: Yup, 0-0 draw. Well done to Angola.

anacacia

06-16-2006, 09:35 PM

Some team not on there! It always turns out unexpected does it not?!

escobert

06-16-2006, 09:59 PM

GO MEXICO, well Angola did pretty damn good.

Psychotic

06-16-2006, 10:17 PM

Whoa...you must be the first person I've met who shares my opinion about Lampard....useless in both games thusfarI've been saying that about Lampard for a long time. And don't double post!
Arjen Robben booked for diving ^___^ Doesn't that just make your day?? He really had it coming. :)Someone else who has that coming is Emanuel Eboue.

So, I've tipped Poland to go through and possibly challenge Germany for the first spot in Group A, both Tunisia and Serbia to push for qualification from their two groups, either Argentina or the Netherlands to implode, and Mexico to be possible Quarter or Semi finalists. I suck :laugh:

However, I have decided to use my power for good. Therefore, I'm going to tip Germany, Ecuador, Sweden, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, the Netherlands, Mexico, Portugal, Angola, Iran, Italy, the Czech Republic, USA, Ghana, Brazil, Croatia, Australia, Japan, France, Togo, Switzerland, South Korea, Spain, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia to win the World Cup. :) (it will be shared)

escobert

06-16-2006, 10:26 PM

yay for sharing!

Russielloyd

06-16-2006, 10:48 PM

Angola hold Mexico and that is a 1st class example that Mexico don't deserve their 4th place FIFA ranking!

If anyone wants to see the goals again, you can download them from these links,

Group A
Match 1
Germany v Costa Rica (http://www.russielloyd.org.uk/World Cup 2006/Group A/Germany V Costa Rica.mpg)
Poland v Ecuador (http://www.russielloyd.org.uk/World Cup 2006/Group A/Poland v Ecuador.mpg)

Match 2
Germany v Poland (http://www.russielloyd.org.uk/World Cup 2006/Group A/Germany V Poland.mpg)
Ecuador v Costa Rica (http://www.russielloyd.org.uk/World Cup 2006/Group A/Ecuador v Costa Rica.mpg)

These goals i've captured by myself. Rest of the goals to come.

Blitz Ace

06-17-2006, 01:30 AM

hehe, check out this video of some australians celebrating at home after we beat japan!!! its pretty funny... one of the guys just wont stop screaming...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdVtCG1wFs0&search=five%20socceroo%20fans

06-17-2006, 04:03 PM

However, I have decided to use my power for good. Therefore, I'm going to tip Germany, Ecuador, Sweden, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, the Netherlands, Mexico, Portugal, Angola, Iran, Italy, the Czech Republic, USA, Ghana, Brazil, Croatia, Australia, Japan, France, Togo, Switzerland, South Korea, Spain, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia to win the World Cup. :) (it will be shared)You're getting the hang of it! Now predict a dominant Chelsea to steamroller their way to a third consecutive Premiership title. ;)

A lovely strike from Deco to put Portugal through to the next round, but the real issue in Group D is second place. Since their last game is against Iran, it's quite possible that Angola could sneak through on goal difference if results go their way. Personally I don't see it happening, but stranger things have happened in the World Cup.

With Argentina dominating S&M yesterday, they're looking the team most likely to go on and win the whole thing. The Czechs and Italians will have to impress in their respective matches today if they're going to look competitive. If they can't do the business today, this is going to start looking very much likes the Argies' tournament.

Croyles

06-17-2006, 05:56 PM

Czech 0 - 1 Ghana
Wow, what a peformance from Ghana!

Resha

06-17-2006, 05:59 PM

The Ghana - Czech Rep. game is one of the best I have seen ever. Ghana are AMAZING. They're quick, great with their tackles and it's all so thrilling. Gyan and Appiah are fantastic, and (naturally) Essien is pivotal in the middle. They're just so fast that their defence is hardly ever shattered -- Rosicky's shown some good pace for the Czechs, but even so, their defending has been pretty ace. They're really going for it, and I hope they continue on in this vein. Nothing'd make me happier right now than if Ghana win :D Czech Rep. looking a bit peaky without Koller and Baros, but Poborsky is doing well.

Croyles

06-17-2006, 06:40 PM

Ghana 2-0!!!
They have pretty much won!!! Well done Ghana!!
Amazing play, but the czechs have been weak!
Hail the underdogs!!!

Spatvark

06-17-2006, 06:57 PM

Shock result of the tournament so far, and I doubt it'll be beaten either. It's not that the Czech's played terribly badly, but they really missed having a decent striker; Lokvents isn't even close to the quality of Koller or Baros. What Ghana excelled in here was quickly closing upon the Czech players, not allowing them to stroke the ball about the pitch, and did well to not give away too many cards and end up with players sent off, which was a worry I had at half time. It was fascinating to see how badly the Ghanians tore apart the Czech defence, especially in the last twenty or so minutes, though they were just enjoying themselves way too much to stay onside XD Really, if they had, they could have beaten Argentina's six goals against Serbia and Montenegro, but my hat's off to the Ghanaians. Well done lads.

dragoonknight_kain

06-17-2006, 06:59 PM

lol, now Ghana has a great chance of qualifying. Brazil vs Ghana, it'll be a great game!

Resha

06-17-2006, 07:07 PM

I hope Ghana qualify :) I think they have a fair chance, provided the Italy -- Czech Rep. game isn't a draw, and they don't lose to the USA. How the USA have recuperated and how they'll come back remains to be seen, and it might yet determine whether or not Ghana can beat them comfortably. I think, at the mo', they can.

They were fucking brilliant. I'm so proud of them -- forget the gap between 5th ranked and 2nd, and look at how the 50th beat the 2nd. First African win of the tournament so far too, and another cause to be glad. ^_^

If not for Petr Cech, the scoreline could have been more embarassing for the Czechs. I don't remember the Ghanian goalie making any great saves until the last minute of extra time, which gave him a chance to show that he was as class as anyone else on the Ghanian team. Muntari -- fucking brilliant and relentless. :heart:

Finally a team I'm cheering for win. o_o I was starting to feel jinxed.

06-17-2006, 07:20 PM

Nice work from Ghana. The Czechs were poor, and clearly missed having a top striker to lead the line, but the Ghanaian defence did so well to close them down that it barely mattered. Going forward they showed some great invention, and although their finishing wasn't brilliant the sheer volume of chances they created made up for it. You have to wonder if the suspension of some key players might come back to haunt them in the final match, though.

Also, what was with the Israeli flag at the end? :confused:

Spatvark

06-17-2006, 07:34 PM

What's fascinating now is what'll happen in the last three matches of the group; Italy vs USA (expect Italy to overrun the poor USA team), Czech Republic vs Italy and Ghana vs USA. If the USA team wins tonight (HAH!), all four teams will be scrapping for the qualification spots. More likely, Italy will win, leaving the USA only a remote chance of qualifying. The final two games are played at the same time to eliminate match-fixing, but even if Italy are already through, they'll still want to beat the Czech team, especially since they'll have Koller, Baros AND Lokvenc all out, plus the fact that since Brazil are likely to win their group, the second place team in Group E will face them in the next round, and nobody wants that (Or maybe they do; face Brazil before they really motor into form, rather than letting them get up a head of steam and facing them in the final). The Czechs have to beat the Italians come next Thursday, since with the form Ghana showed against them, I can't believe they'll fail to beat the US (HAH! That's what I said about the Czechs vs Ghana based on last week's matches!), but with Marek Heinz (Who?) as the only remaining Czech forward, it looks like Ghana may well qualify.<table border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0">
<tr><td>Rank</td><td>Country</td><td>W</td><td>D</td><td>L</td><td>GF</td><td>GA</td><td>GD</td><td>Pts</td></tr>
<tr><td>1</td><td>Italy</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>3</td></tr>
<tr><td>2</td><td>Czech Republic</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>3</td></tr>
<tr><td>3</td><td>Ghana</td><td>1</td><td> 0</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr>
<tr><td>4</td><td>USA</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td><td>-3</td><td>0</td></tr>
</table>

Russielloyd

06-17-2006, 07:36 PM

Ronaldo was poor yet again today, when is he going to learn that his tricks don't work!? Good players learn from their mistakes, yet Ronaldo keeps on doing them!

Anyways, Muntari claimed he's better than Ronaldo and Rooney, Ok, maybe Ronaldo but not Rooney, though he is a really good player, a great work rate and helps the team out alot. I've seen him play a couple of times for Udinese and is one of their main players! ManUre could do with a player like him, with the poor excuse of a midfield ManUre have!

dragoonknight_kain

06-17-2006, 07:40 PM

Also, what was with the Israeli flag at the end? :confused:
It seems that player plays in Israel, but I'm not sure.

Yamaneko

06-17-2006, 07:54 PM

A little late, but jeez, the Argentina - Serbia and Montenegro was something to see. You could really see the change in SaM after the second goal by Cambiasso (which was absolutely beautiful). I was watching the game on the Spanish language channel, Univision, and the commentators described Argentina's style as a tango. It was dead on. I sort of felt bad for the Serbians and I'm pretty sure the ref saw this too because he ended the game early before the extra time could be finished.

Spatvark

06-17-2006, 08:09 PM

Cristiano Ronaldo's problem is he doesn't play the simple ball often enough, but with a few more seasons at Man. United under his belt, I think he'll become an amazing player. Fergie is good at getting players to conform to a more team-based format; remember how Andy Cole used to play before he moved there? Sir Alex is the man to pull the young Portugese player into shape, I honestly believe that.

06-17-2006, 08:34 PM

Cristiano Ronaldo's problem is he doesn't play the simple ball often enough, but with a few more seasons at Man. United under his belt, I think he'll become an amazing player. Fergie is good at getting players to conform to a more team-based format; remember how Andy Cole used to play before he moved there? 44 goals in a single season? Yeah, I sure do. :p

It seems Daniele De Rossi will nto be content until he has completely wrecked my fantasy football team. What a bastard. Still, his dismissal should make this game very interesting. Italy 1-1 USA at the moment.

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 08:40 PM

Even though the score is tied, the US is badly outplaying the Italians so far. In fact, this game is a pretty good example of why I can't stand soccer. The US dominates for the first 21 minutes, gets a weak foul on - what else, a flop - and scores on a set play, and after the first goal the game is pretty much over. Now, Italy does something stupid and ties the score again, so I suppose that evens things, but Lord, I wish these players would actually play the game instead of flopping non-stop.

EDIT: How the freakin' crap is that a red card? Way to completely ruin the US's advantage. It takes a brutal elbow to McBride's face for Italy to get a red card, and a late tackle is a red card for us? I call major BS.

Strider

06-17-2006, 08:54 PM

The U.S. has pretty much owned Italy, with that one corner kick being the exception. I agree on Mastroeni's red card, though, that was highly questionable.

But we've got the edge, I think, and that will carry us through to the end. Don't forget Totti is already out of the game, too! You think if they'da known it was gonna be 10-on-10 eventually, they would've subbed him out?

Spatvark

06-17-2006, 08:55 PM

Mastroeni's tackle was horrific, though I'd like to see it a few more times before saying it definitely wasn't a red. The legs weren't high, but he went with both feet and was nowhere near the ball. Not 100% certain on that decision.

Keller didn't have much chance of saving the goal, his back four utterly failed him with their marking, but USA's equaliser was richly deserved since they've been going forward very well. With ten men a-piece though, if Marcello Lippi gives a good enough team-talk at half time, the Italians should be able to wrestle control of the game back and take the victory. Still, after the Czech Republic vs Ghana match, I'm not ruling ANYTHING out XD

06-17-2006, 08:58 PM

Mastroeni's tackle was horrific, though I'd like to see it a few more times before saying it definitely wasn't a red. The legs weren't high, but he went with both feet and was nowhere near the ball. Not 100% certain on that decision.Yeah, I think the replays mke it quite clear that it was worthy of a straight red. That sort of tackle is potentially dangerous, and there was no need for him to dive in the way he did. It's a shame really, since with the man advantage the USA had a good chance of pushing for the victory. Masteroeni's sending off will make things difficult for them again, althoguh like you say, after what we saw earlier today it would be foolish to rule out an upset here.

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 09:03 PM

This is like 11 Manu Ginobili's at once.

Pope didn't touch the player, and he falls down, furiously grabbing his ankle. These are pathetic sportsmen.

Resha

06-17-2006, 09:04 PM

DOWN TO 9??? WHAT THE....O___O

They must really like the colour red in Uruguay.

Edit: The red card happened just as I was about to type something. And after that there was no use saying it. o_o

06-17-2006, 09:06 PM

Another sending off? I think the referee will have some pretty serious questions to answer after this one.

Resha

06-17-2006, 09:09 PM

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 09:12 PM

06-17-2006, 09:15 PM

But it does make sense, in a fashion. Eddie Pope committed an awful drag-down foul in the first half, and was rightfully yellow carded. If his second foul -- which I missed -- was just as bad and another yellow card worthy, then it could be justified.To be honest, I think you're right. Pope's second challenge wasn't the cleanest, and certainly as deserving of a yellow card as some of the others we've seen in the tournament so far. That won't stop the Italians and Americans from complaining about their respective sendings off, though. And it really has had a negative effect on what was looking like an excellent game. Still, it would be rather unfair to fault the ref, I suppose.

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 09:25 PM

Dammit. God forbid someone actually score in this dang-blasted sport.

I do like that the ref has stopped calling fouls every time the Italians fall down. It's been absolute crap so far how much flopping they've done.

EDIT: This ref is awful.

06-17-2006, 09:28 PM

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 09:29 PM

Croyles

06-17-2006, 09:33 PM

But it does make sense, in a fashion. Eddie Pope committed an awful drag-down foul in the first half, and was rightfully yellow carded. If his second foul -- which I missed -- was just as bad and another yellow card worthy, then it could be justified.
Pope's red card was a result of a perfect play on the ball - the Italian player, after taking about three perfect steps after losing the ball, just furiously collapsed to the ground. But then again, that's all there is in soccer. Guys faking injury after injury just to get calls.

Now, that's 20 fouls on the US compared to 8 for Italy. This could either be an agenda against the US, or our players just might not be total pansies like the Italians are, diving every time someone gets within 3 feet. If anyone wonders why the US hates soccer, this is why.

Please, dont start assuming its an agenda against your country, thats un-sportsman-like and makes you look foolish. I'm not sure whether the last sending off of the american was justified, but theres no reason to say its a biased ref. If he really is a biased ref (which i very much doubt), since Uruguay is in South America, and is way closer to Italy, Id say he'd be rooting for the USA.

The americans seem to be falling down just as much as any other team including the Italians, so their equal pansies, as is every other football player then. I admit its awful how much falling and diving there is in football generally, but l0l god forbid that doesnt make football an awful sport :p
If you dont like football (and while your in this thread you should probably call it that :D), dont watch it.

Anyhow, even with 9 against 10, the USA are looking slightly stronger I reckon. But Del Piero has been getting a few chances.

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 09:39 PM

But it does make sense, in a fashion. Eddie Pope committed an awful drag-down foul in the first half, and was rightfully yellow carded. If his second foul -- which I missed -- was just as bad and another yellow card worthy, then it could be justified.
Pope's red card was a result of a perfect play on the ball - the Italian player, after taking about three perfect steps after losing the ball, just furiously collapsed to the ground. But then again, that's all there is in soccer. Guys faking injury after injury just to get calls.

Now, that's 20 fouls on the US compared to 8 for Italy. This could either be an agenda against the US, or our players just might not be total pansies like the Italians are, diving every time someone gets within 3 feet. If anyone wonders why the US hates soccer, this is why.

Please, dont start assuming its an agenda against your country, thats un-sportsman-like and makes you look foolish. I'm not sure whether the last sending off of the american was justified, but theres no reason to say its a biased ref. If he really is a biased ref, since Uruguay is in South America, and is way closer to Italy, Id say he'd be rooting for the USA.
The 20-8 foul differential (not sure what it is now) was my main focus about that. And my main point was not that there was an agenda against the US (though I think that both ejections were unjustified), but that we simply weren't flopping every time someone got close like the Italians have spent the entire match doing. Good for the ref, though, that since Pope's ejection, he hasn't fallen for them near as much.

Croyles

06-17-2006, 09:42 PM

Fair enough.
But I gotta give credit to the refs this world cup, because they really have been trying to punish diving more than in any other previous world cup.

P.S This "dang-blasted" sport is our sport, and we dont come into your American Football thread (assuming that is what you watch) and say how crap it is l0l.
Annnnnnyywaaaay, things are really taking surprising turns in the world cup lately.

*Has a minute of Silence for Fritz Walter*

06-17-2006, 09:51 PM

Not the best football match you'll see in your life, but plenty of drama. A draw leaves the group nice and open, at least, and the USA played far better than they did against the Czechs, posing a reasonable attacking threat while continuing to defend well with nine men. I'd say that all three red cards were justified, but that the game would have been better off without them nevertheless. They overshadowed what was an excellent competition for the opening thirty minutes, and will hurt both teams in their final group games.

Still, a good result for the USA, and it keeps Group E interesting. We should see a great final round of games.

Russielloyd

06-17-2006, 09:55 PM

Mastroeni's tackle was horrific, though I'd like to see it a few more times before saying it definitely wasn't a red.

That's nonsense, his studs were showing his tackling foot was off the ground and caught Pirlo right in the ankle, it could of been a serious injury.

Deffinately a red card.

Pope was sent off because he picked up 2 yellow cards, his 2nd yellow card was a stupid tackle, he took the player from behind and didn't take the ball and 2 yellows make a red.

Deserve to have gone down to 9 men.

And it's FOOTBALL, not f**king soccer! call your own pathectic sports soccer. If you don't like how FOOTBALL is played then piss off, simple as...

Spatvark

06-17-2006, 09:59 PM

As I said, I want to see it a few more times; not caught any replays of it since I posted that.

Group E table now stands as:<table border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0">
<tr><td>Rank</td><td>Country</td><td>W</td><td>D</td><td>L</td><td>GF</td><td>GA</td><td>GD</td><td>Pts</td></tr>
<tr><td>1</td><td>Italy</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>4</td></tr>
<tr><td>2</td><td>Czech Republic</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>3</td></tr>
<tr><td>3</td><td>Ghana</td><td>1</td><td> 0</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr>
<tr><td>4</td><td>USA</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>-3</td><td>1</td></tr>
</table>

Resha

06-17-2006, 10:00 PM

Hmm, not sure what to make of that offside decision. McBride didn't seem to touch the ball, but the fact that he was there in the first place (both because he was in a position to control it, and because he was blocking Buffon's line of sight) could mean he's considered active. Still, the US are looking threatening even with their numerical disadvantage, and with twenty minutes to go they could yet win this.

Well, the replays showed him trying to poke it in. He didn't make contact with the ball -- he didn't need to -- but he attempted it, from an offside position, and maybe that's why they called offside. He definitely attempted a swipe at it. A beautiful strike from Beasley, though.

All the red cards are going to be debated, hotly defended and controversial. But there's no denying this match was a very physical one right from the start, when Totti was yellow carded under five minutes of play, and a million free kicks given away.

Full credit to the USA -- they played brilliantly against all odds. Keller made some great saves; Landon Donovan, Jesus Christ, was amazing. They clung on, the USA, and surely no critic will deny that. A much, much better game than they had against the Czechs. If they continue on in this vein, they'll give Ghana a run for their money. Italy didn't shine overmuch, and the Czech Republic -- if they pick themselves up after their loss -- might provide a good match yet.

:D With so many teams confirmed a place in the 16, it's fantastic to have a nail-baiting last round of matches.

Psychotic

06-17-2006, 10:06 PM

Even you have to admit you were somewhat entertained by that, KB. :p

As Spat said, those Czechs sure do miss Koller and Baros. Rosicky doesn't look so hot now, does he Resha? :p and he has terrible hair, and so I am going to mock him all season just like Cz mocked Harry Kewell.

Italy will be fuming that they couldn't beat a 9 man USA, and eh, they didn't deserve to anyway. I remember discussion in this thread about how the USA would miss Brad Friedel...based on this evidence, I don't think so. Keller more than made up for his mistake against the Czechs. Even Landon Donovan didn't play terribly, but for me the star was Reyna, who held everything together.

Mastroeni didn't deserve a red, he deserved a yellow for that challenge, and as for Pope, well, some refs would give either one of them as a yellow, some would give neither, and some would give both. Tonight's falls into the last category.

Group E is going to have a fascinating last game.

Oh, and two of my fantasy football players got sent off today. Yeehaw! :laugh:

Russielloyd

06-17-2006, 10:23 PM

I think Mastroeni did deserve his red card, he could of broke Pirlo's ankle, the studs were showing aswell and that's a number one example to give a straight red card.

Kirobaito

06-17-2006, 10:59 PM

Russielloyd

06-17-2006, 11:17 PM

After poor performances by todays players in my WC fantasy team, i still moved up one place. In 3 days, ive gone from 16th to 6th, lol, you lot suck! :p

Croyles

06-17-2006, 11:28 PM

And I hardly even know how fantasy football works, i didnt even know it involves how players do in the real world cup until 3 days ago, so yeah, YOUR PRIDE IS FULLY DESERVED MASTER RUSSIELLOYD :p

Cant wait for more World Cup action! :D

Russielloyd

06-17-2006, 11:33 PM

You got a calendar on the left, you select tomorrows date, then select the players you have, that are playing on that day. Selecting a captain gives you double points for that player.

Doomie

06-18-2006, 12:04 AM

If anyone wonders why the US hates soccer, this is why.

...because you suck at it? xD Seriously, you guys have yet to score a goal on your own. USA is quite possibly the most overrated team that qualified for the World Cup, and would have lost the game had Zaccardo not handed them a birthday present.

EDIT: I can honestly say that Italy is the captain of missed chances. They had so many chances to score, and didn't capitalize. If it was anyone but Keller, the game would have been won.

*ETERNAL FANTASY*

06-18-2006, 12:43 AM

Ghana was brilliant that was an awesome match...sometimes i was thinking if the team they were versing was the same team that beat the US but yeah Ghana played brilliantly!!

-N-

06-18-2006, 12:50 AM

I can't believe I missed those games. >_<

Well, Czech has to lose to Italy and USA needs to beat Ghana to advance. Or Czech could draw with Italy and USA needs to make up for their terrible goal differential. If Czech wins, it's over.

jesteranimefreak

06-18-2006, 01:48 AM

Ok... I know that 2 yellows = red and sit next game. now a red on the first try, does that equate to a sit for the next game?

Russielloyd

06-18-2006, 02:28 AM

A straight red card means they miss the next game also, with the fact they cant play the rest of the match they got the red card in.

For the group stage though, if you pick up 2 yellows from any of the 3 games, you miss the next match.

For example, if you pick up a yellow card in the first match, then another one in the second match, you'll be suspended for the third match.

If you pick up one yellow card over the 3 matches and make it to the knock-out stage, then the yellow card will be wiped from the players name and they get to start with a clean slate.

dragoonknight_kain

06-18-2006, 02:28 AM

Yup, but Rossi can get loads of games, because it was an aggression. I'd be surprised if he played again in this WC.

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 02:39 AM

If I was Lippi, I'd send Di Rossi home. It was plain horrendous, and as good a player as he is, why carry that liability?

As for the Fantasy league, man I totally messed it up at the beginning, but I've shifted up to second now (yay for Cristiano Ronaldo playing badly but still gettign 16 points; picked him as captain so it doubled =D~), but there'll be days where I'm significantly weaker than other teams in the league, so it's gonna be a tough battle for me to keep second, or even to try and take the top.

Russielloyd

06-18-2006, 03:00 AM

Yup, but Rossi can get loads of games, because it was an aggression.No, he'll just miss the match v Czech Republic and will be fined. He'll be able to play n the 2nd round if Italy make it.

As for the Fantasy league, man I totally messed it up at the beginning, but I've shifted up to second now (yay for Cristiano Ronaldo playing badly but still gettign 16 points; picked him as captain so it doubled =D~), but there'll be days where I'm significantly weaker than other teams in the league, so it's gonna be a tough battle for me to keep second, or even to try and take the top.
I'll catch you in the fantasy league Spatvark. I'll will win and if i don't i've got an excuse! :D

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 03:03 AM

Considering the nature of the incident, FIFA might slap him with a ban, meaning he'll miss more than just one match.

Freya

06-18-2006, 07:36 AM

So i missed all the games Fri and Sat, can i get a quick summary of it. I'm at my sister's house and she doesn't have TV :cry:

Yamaneko

06-18-2006, 08:13 AM

The Italy - USA game was a bloodbath. The De Rossi red card was warranted. That was criminal and one of the worst plays I've ever seen in all the World Cups I've seen. The Mastroeni foul was pretty bad and also warranted a red card. FIFA made it pretty clear it doesn't want to see tackles like that. He didn't even try to go for the ball. Pope already had his first yellow early on and you don't try your luck like that. It was well-deserved sending him off.

06-18-2006, 12:16 PM

As Spat said, those Czechs sure do miss Koller and Baros. Rosicky doesn't look so hot now, does he Resha? :p and he has terrible hair, and so I am going to mock him all season just like Cz mocked Harry Kewell.Sucky though Rosicky's hair may be, don't you dare compare it to the bad-adjective-ness of Kewell's last season. Besides, Rosicky might have been ineffective in yesterday's game when his only target was Lokvenc, but somehow I doubt he'll have the same trouble when he's got Thierry Henry to link up with. :p

Anyway, Brazil have a lot to prove today. Unless they can dramatically improve on their showing against Croatia then their reputation as untouchable champions will be in serious doubt. And with the Czechs and Italians disappointing last night, that would leave Argentina pretty much unopposed.

Blitz Ace

06-18-2006, 12:21 PM

The big game (Australia v Brazil) begins in only a few hours (2 am Sydney time)... all the hype, all the hope... can australia do it??? can we come away with a draw? or even a win?... well, im being optimistic and saying we can, but deep down i know that if brazil are in their element, we will probably go down... still, cant blame me for hoping... GO THE SOCCEROOS!!! ... im gonna be so stuffed tomorow mornin

dragoonknight_kain

06-18-2006, 03:49 PM

Yup, but Rossi can get loads of games, because it was an aggression.No, he'll just miss the match v Czech Republic and will be fined. He'll be able to play n the 2nd round if Italy make it.
Really? And what about all that talk about fairplay and against violence? Shame on you, FIFA!

1 minute to the end of Croatia vs Japan, 0-0. Only a disaster will prevent Australia from qualifying.

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 04:55 PM

Uhm, actually, assuming Brazil beat Australia, I wouldn't be surprised if Croatia then beat them in the third game as well, IF the Croats can start scoring. They don't seem to have an up-front talent to rival that of past heroes like Suker and Boksic which is a big shame, the main reason why they've failed to win either of their first two games, but if they start scoring against the Socceroos, they can come away with the victory and second qualifcation spot. But then, I guess I'm being kinda down on the Aussies here; they're not a bad side at all, but they lack any real depth in their squad, and I expect even an average performance from the Brazilians (that is, average for the Brazilians) can stump them. Still, the Aussies love a good battle, and I don't expect them to take this lying down. It promises to be a fascinating match.

Croyles

06-18-2006, 05:47 PM

half time: 0 - 0
Ronaldo is still fat!

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 05:54 PM

This has been a pretty interesting first half, with Brazil still not blowing on all cylinders, but looking much more of a threat going forward. The star man of this half though has blatantly been Gus van Hiddink; you can see in Australia's formation shifts how well he's picked out the tactics they need for this match and has drilled them hard in it; the Aussie back four are doing pretty well, both Neill and Moore making great tackles, but going forwards, the Socceroos haven't been too inventive. Whenever they do get the ball out wide on the wing, they've rarely got a cross in, instead getting throw-ins or being dispossessed. If Australia are to score in the second half, it'll most likely come from a long range shot swerving past Dida, rather than some spectacular skill in the box. I'm looking forward to seeing Aloisi, and maybe Kewell coming on in this second half, but I'd also like to see Robinho and Juninho coming on to spark some more creativity in the Brazil attack.

I have to say, lookng at how van Hiddink has got the Aussies going in this first half, I'm revising my view of the Croatia vs Australia game; if the tactics are right (and Croatia ALWAYS play the same way), the Socceroos can pinch victory there and qualify. I think this may well become my favourite group.

Resha

06-18-2006, 05:56 PM

You're horrible Croyles xD

The commentator said, in all earnestness, "What a riveting first half." :laugh: Brazil FAIL to sparkle; full credit to the Aussies, they have dug in for defence and are doing pretty well. They've had more shots on goal that Brazil, and honestly -- I don't remember Schwarzer making a save on shot at all. The critics are going to swarm all over Ronaldo for that shot he missed, and I feel awful for him. :(

I don't know what's wrong with this Brazilian team, touted to be the best in the world. And boy, they don't look it (compared to Argentina and Spain). Maybe in terms of individual achievement, skill and talent they have in the team -- but they haven't put any of that talent together to achieve something truly spectacular (yet), like people expected them to.

Strider

06-18-2006, 06:41 PM

History will show you that Brazil has always started slow in group qualifying. They'll come around eventually.

06-18-2006, 06:44 PM

Mo-Nercy

06-18-2006, 06:53 PM

Aw. :(

Resha

06-18-2006, 06:58 PM

History will show you that Brazil has always started slow in group qualifying. They'll come around eventually.

Yep. Form is temporary, Class is permenant. I'm suprised a supposed cricket fan like you, Pooja "Farter" Bharat isn't more aware of that phrase. :mad2:
Aw. :( I'm not saying they're playing badly (I'm not thaaaaat stupid geez xD) -- just that they could play better with what they have. =D

Anyways, better second half. Jinxed Robinho, much? I love the name Fred. In a team full of hos and dinhos, a Fred...is beautiful.

tomamar04

06-18-2006, 06:58 PM

Australia were brilliant today. They deserved at least a draw in my opinion. Kewell missed a sitter :(

Russielloyd

06-18-2006, 07:07 PM

Neill had an amazing game and it's just Blackburn's bloody luck, because teams will want to sign him if he keeps playing like that, damn it!

dragoonknight_kain

06-18-2006, 07:09 PM

It's incredible how the team gets better with Robinho. He's a faster player than both Ronaldo and Adriano, and Fred did well in the few minutes he was in the game. Ronaldo and Adriano won't work together. Besides, I'd like to see Juninho on the team.

I'd believe more in our team if we played with Rogerio (I just can't trust Dida), Cicinho, Lúcio, Juan, R. Carlos, Gilberto Silva (or Mineiro), Zé Roberto, Kaká, Ronaldinho, Robinho and Adriano (or Fred), and Juninho playing in the second half. With the likes of Cafu, Ronaldo (playing like this) and Emerson we'll have problems.

06-18-2006, 07:15 PM

Brazil underperformed once again, but were still the better team overall, particularly after the addition of Robinho. They still don't look like world-beaters though, and Australia were given plenty of space to create chances as the game wore on. I'd back Australia to qualify now, since they're more than capable of holding the Croatians off for ninety minutes based on their performances so far. But the Brazilians have to find their form pretty sharpish if they're going to go all the way this year.

Croyles

06-18-2006, 07:18 PM

Well done to the Aussies!
I do feel sorry for Ronaldo, he seems to be so unfit.

tomamar04

06-18-2006, 08:25 PM

Well done to the Aussies!
I do feel sorry for Ronaldo, he seems to be so unfit.

Ronaldo's performance made me cringe, it was that bad. HE did set up the opener for Adriano, but other than that, it was a 4/10 performance at best.

Kaka was yet again their best performer.

Croyles

06-18-2006, 08:42 PM

France's first goal in 8 years by Henry. Nice goal too!

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 08:54 PM

France 1 : 0 South Korea (HT)
I'm kinda annoyed by France's performance in this first half; for the first ten minutes, up to the goal, they were magnificent, and then they totally went into cruise mode. Henry should have tucked away his second of the evening but seemed to feel that he preferred to lie down on the job a bit, and Viera was horribly unlucky not to get awarded a goal for his header cleared from BEHIND the line; I can understand that neither the ref or the linesmen saw it, but it's still harsh. This is where video technology really helps, though in that aspect, it would have to be CALLED for by the ref, kinda like in cricket and rugby.

South Korea haven't really looked too sharp, and I think it's really down to their formation, as the BBC commentators have been saying; playing three men against Viera, Makelele, Zidane and Malouda is just insanity, which is why they've had next to no chances to score, though their inswinging free kick to the back post has been one I've seen a few times so far in this tournament to good effect. S.Korea definitely need to switch to a 4-4-2, whilst France need to stop taking it easy and really settle the game quickly, or they'll invite South Korea to get lucky.

Croyles

06-18-2006, 09:40 PM

OMG shock goal!
1 - 1

Russielloyd

06-18-2006, 09:40 PM

Come one South Korea! Beat the frogies!

Croyles

06-18-2006, 09:52 PM

FT: 1 - 1
I cant believe France screwed that one up!

Rocket Edge

06-18-2006, 09:52 PM

i have a 10 euro bet on argentina to win, lookin good so far...

Spatvark

06-18-2006, 10:06 PM

South Korea didn't deserve to equalise, their play was stodgy, but France deserved to concede, serving them right for totally easing off after Henry hit the back of the net. Let's face it, the French team are lazy. Any time they wanted, they could have jsut stepped up the pace and decimated South Korea, but no, they were too arrogant and paid for it with Park Ji-Sung's equaliser.

Endless

06-18-2006, 10:14 PM

FT: 1 - 1
I cant believe France screwed that one up!

Sadly, I could have forseen that. I doubt we'll pass the first round :/

Russielloyd

06-18-2006, 10:18 PM

France are going home, there going home, there going home, there going! France are going home!

Psychotic

06-18-2006, 10:19 PM

Oh Croatia. You just missed a golden opportunity. :(

As for the Aussies, other than as a defensive performance, I don't think they played all that well until Kewell came onto the pitch...and promptly missed a sitter. But then Brazil brought on Robinho, and it swung in their favour again. Brazil only looked like world champions after Robinho had replaced Ronaldo, really.

France, well...that really was an accident waiting to happen after their total complacency. Can't really feel sorry for them, because they should've put that game away a long time ago. Group F also looks like it will have an interesting finale.

Levian

06-18-2006, 10:35 PM

I'm going to eat my hat if Ghana doesn't win. I don't have a hat so it's a win - win situation.

dragoonknight_kain

06-18-2006, 10:40 PM

Omg, France can't beat S. Korea? It's going to be a bitter retirement for poor Zidane. Can't say I care, though.:p

Blitz Ace

06-19-2006, 01:19 AM

i thought Australia was pretty unlucky not to get something from the game against brazil... it could have easily been 1-1 if a few things had gone our way... but oh well, we did have our chances (ie kewell) and failed to take them. still it was encouraging to see that we can mix it with the best in the world, even if they didnt play their best. now all we need is a draw (assuming japan lose) or a win against croatia to qualify... and i reckon they can do it

Croyles

06-19-2006, 01:30 AM

I'm creating a new EoFF group for people who have messed up (e.g. didnt know how fantasy football works, and would like to start new again, or anyone else that wants to start another one/again). The first line up will be for the final games of the group stages, so the Germany vs Ecuador and Poland vs Costa Rica games and further until the end of the World Cup.
I hope people will join, but wont be surprised if no one does.
Ill still be in the other one, but I only bothered to figure it out today, so im kinda behind :p

I am posting the ID and Password here now, But please dont put any players in your match line up until the 20th of June. Failure to comply will result in me removing you and I will only allow you back on on the 20th of June :p :D.
So remember, first line up is for the 20th of June: Germany vs Ecuador, Poland vs Costa Rica, England vs Sweden, Trinidad and Tobago vs Paraguay.

Here is the ID# and Password:
Group ID#: 47193
Password: eyesonff

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you want to know how the groups are standing at the moment this is the best place to go:
http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/w/group/index.html?r=436

tomamar04

06-19-2006, 07:33 AM

France should progress. Switzerland and France should both beat Togo, and Switzerland should beat Korea in the final group game, leaving Switzerland with 7 pts, France with 5pts, Korea with 4pts and Togo with nothing.

Resha

06-19-2006, 06:55 PM

Lacklustre performance from Saudi Arabia. That second half was played with a defeatist attitude, and the moments of life were far and few between (although they became slightly more offensive after the substitutions). Shevchenko was brilliant :( and a good Ukrainian performance all around. Nice that they've eaten up the goal difference et al.

06-19-2006, 08:19 PM

You go, Tunisia. You go to the max. :cool:

Croyles

06-19-2006, 08:32 PM

Lol, 1-0 for Tunisia in like the first 3 minutes. Early upset?

I got an idea:
!World Cup + Qualification Pub Quiz!

Which player tied with another for scoring the highest amount of goals in one single match? The match also happened to have the most amount of goals all around in a single match, EVER.
Give me the name of the player + his amount of goals, and the overall scoreline if you wish.

Yamaneko

06-19-2006, 08:54 PM

You go, Tunisia. You go to the max. :cool:
:mad2:

Spain deserves to win. They are the better team and it's about time they win a World Cup. Tunisia is playing well, but that header to the net should have gone in. :(

Psychotic

06-19-2006, 10:11 PM

Oh Tunisia, I bet you go on to take the lead against the Ukraine, too, before throwing it all away. A bit baffled by the decision to bring Luis Garcia off, as not only is the man a legend (and Raul is a bit crap these days) but also I thought he was one of the best, if not the best (Xavi and Sergio Ramos are also contenders) players on the pitch in the first half.

Still, Fabregas lit the second half up, so it's all good.

Hurray for Ukraine! I've been a fan of some of their players for a while now, like Tymoschuk, and especially Voronin (which is why he is in my fantasy football squad) so it was good to see them do well, and also, Kalinichenko has won me over too.

Good result for the Swiss. I reckon they and South Korea will draw, and then it's down to France to decide their own destiny. They'll need two goals...twice as many as they've scored in the past eight years. And you know Togo will be fired up for a game against their former colonial masters...

Yamaneko

06-19-2006, 11:53 PM

I'm going to have to watch the second half when I get home. I only ever get to watch the first half during my lunch break. :(

Resha

06-20-2006, 04:50 AM

To all the atheists: God does exist! He's aka Cesc Fabregas. He is subliminally awesome. (And he's all Arsenal's.) :D

Edit: Germany's best performance so far, imho. >:o Two beautiful goals from Klose -- he's now the highest scorer in the World Cup (so far), ahead of Torres. Ecudaor made five changes to their starting line-up! I don't know if Luis made it for tactical reasons, or just to rest the players. They are through, after all.

06-20-2006, 05:21 PM

Spain's second half performance was excellent last night, making up for their disappointing start. Fabregas was impressive, but what really stretched Tunisia was the introduction of Joaquin on the right, offering the Spaniards a wide option that they didn't really have in the first half. Raul was nothing special, but popped up when it mattered to score the equaliser, which is all you can really ask of a substitute striker. Besides, with Torres up front, he can afford to underperform. :p

Didn't see the first half of the Germany match, but the fact that Ecuador rested their strongest players means that this is hardly evidence of a dominant German side. The Poland score isn't that surprising either, and the final Group A table is a pretty accurate summar of the teams' respective quality, if you ask me.

Now, with regards to tonight's England game, I think that winning might not necessarily be the best option. While a first place finish might give us an easier match in the second round, we'd be pretty much guarenteed to play Argentina in the Quarter Final, and I don't need to tell you what's wrong with that. Much better to face a sub-standard German side and save the Argies for the final, if you ask me.

Psychotic

06-20-2006, 05:45 PM

To all the atheists: God does exist! He's aka Cesc Fabregas. He is subliminally awesome. (And he's all Arsenal's.) :DAnd I would take Xabi Alonso any day of the week. :) Also, God is Robbie Fowler, and everybody knows that.

I sort of agree with Cz on Argentina, but then again, I'd rather lose in the Quarter Final than the Final itself. You can talk about progress or whatever, but I don't think there's anything worse than losing in a final.

But after the friendly in Geneva, who knows what result an England - Argentina game would produce?

Croyles

06-20-2006, 05:50 PM

Germany had 1 substitution from the start, made 2 substitutions at half time and another one not so much later on. So its not like it doesnt show evidence of the german team entirely. Klose went off pretty much at half time. Ecuador didnt have Degaldo and many other important players, but this is still a good victory.
Sub-standard German team? I would hardly call it sub-standard. The team hasnt been this good for ages. And the way england are playing at the moment, you do have reason to fear us!
Fair enough about the Argentinians though, I dont think anyone really wants to play them. But I do have to say that Argentina did not have a strong opposition when they got 6-0. Germany got 8-0 against Saudi Arabia last world cup but that didnt say all that much. They could easily become like spain and look more shaky again.

Psychotic

06-20-2006, 05:54 PM

Congratulations on topping the group, Croyles. However, I am annoyed, because I just realised I forgot to put Podolski and Friedrich in my starting line up! :( I'm going to load my team with Group C and D players now, just in case I forget to later.

Rocket Edge

06-20-2006, 05:55 PM

thats pretty much the same with me.. sucks:mad:

Resha

06-20-2006, 05:56 PM

Like Cz said, the Ecuadorian team rested five of their previously starting line-up players. Including Delgado, I think. I don't think they were playing to win, and they weren't entirely outclassed either. They saw plenty of the ball and didn't use the opportunities they had -- the few times they did push forwards, Lehmann did have to make saves. Germany did field all their best players, on the other hand.

It's good to see Ballack back in form ^_^ He played much better today than he did against Poland.

Croyles

06-20-2006, 06:18 PM

Well im glad about the win anyway :p

Resha

06-20-2006, 06:23 PM

Yes indeed! Congrats very much! Klose and Lahm were ace! :D

Croyles

06-20-2006, 06:28 PM

Thank you! :D
Im also happy because I had Klose on fantasy football as captain, 40 points from one player in one day!! I wont be getting them till the day is over though.

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-20-2006, 07:21 PM

who does lahm play for

06-20-2006, 08:34 PM

Joe Cole, I could kiss your face. :heart:

amratis

06-20-2006, 08:48 PM

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! OWEN!! :cry:

On the other hand, Joe Cole = God.

Russielloyd

06-20-2006, 08:50 PM

YES! come on England!!
Joe Cole's scores an amazing goal! Best goal of the tournament so far!

Lahm plays for Bayern Munich.

Loony BoB

06-20-2006, 08:54 PM

Paul "I'll take my full six seconds" Robinson
Jamie "He'll do" Carragher
Rio "Slip'n'Save" Ferdinand
John "I think I saw him for a couple of seconds" Terry
Ashley "That totally was not a handball" Cole
Owen "The first time I've noticed him doing well" Hargreaves
David "Why won't the strikers collect my crosses" Beckham
Frank "It's my birthday and I'll shoot if I want to" Lampard
Joe "Dan wants to kiss his face" Cole
Wayne "Oh, bugger, he lost it. Oh, wait, he's got it back!" Rooney
Peter "The commentators get surprised every time he does something other than a header" Crouch

and Michael "We're only allowed three fit strikers, you see" Owen.

Not a bad first half.

06-20-2006, 08:58 PM

That's more like it. England have looked consistently threatening during this half, and with Rooney back in the team we've now got a number of routes to goal, making us far more dangerous in the final third. Cole's strike was amazing, and even Hargreaves has done a pretty good job. Sweden haven't done much, but that shouldn't take anything away from England's showing.

However, Owen's injury is extremely worrying. Not because he's critical to our success, but because if Crouch finds himself booked, or Rooney's fitness isn't up to scratch, we're left with very little option but to start with Walcott. Personally I'd rather see us start with a five-man midfield (with Aaron Lennon on the right) but I doubt Sven would try something like that. This is where the decision not to take a fifth forward could really hurt us, so here's hoping that Owen's injury isn't too severe.

Loony BoB

06-20-2006, 09:01 PM

There is the possibility of Gerrard getting a game as an all-out forward, a la the warmup matches.

06-20-2006, 09:07 PM

I have to say, that goal looked like it had been coming from a Swedish Set Piece. However, why the arse was 3'7" midget Ashley Cole covering the back post? :(

Edit: YESSSSSSSS STEVIE G YOU ARE THE SEXIEST MAN IN THE WHOLE WORLD

Edit2: That was hot. I said "Henrik needs to score now :(" in chat and literally 3 seconds later he scored xD even though who the actual goalscorer was is up for debate. Anyway, I'm happy with that, we went through on top of the table. We're lucky we got Ecuador over Germany 'cause our team isn't anywhere near fullstrengh/on top form.

I Took the Red Pill

06-20-2006, 09:51 PM

Larsson is mah hero.

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-20-2006, 09:53 PM

Big up the Swedes. Who didn't see that coming? England just can't beat them :D

Loony BoB

06-20-2006, 09:57 PM

Things of note:

1) I love how every time ITV's commentators mention Walcott, they sound disgusted at the idea of him playing at all, at any point. He's spoken of like a 12th player for the other team. It can get kind of amusing after you get through the phase of finding it annoying.
2) "England are contendors" - ITV's last words before the ads. Yeah, they're as good as Sweden.
3) All this talk about avoiding Germany just kind of shows that England aren't very big favourites at all compared to what they used to be before the tournament, regardless of the fact that everyone is still hyping them up. Fact is, if England play Ecuador, the jump in class that they're going to have to make if they get to the semis is going to be insane. Right now they've faced a whole lot of decent sides but not a single great one. I'm not sure if they'll be able to make that giant step up at this rate.
4) Oh, poor Lampard. You want a goal so badly, don't you? Kicking the ball into the net after the goal was scored, the subdued celebrations before looking down with an almost sad look after a very quick pat on the back to Gerrard... he's visibly jealous. xD I really, really want Lampard to get a goal, because once he does, hopefully he'll be able to put more concentration on just playing his game.
5) Does anyone not like Larsson? I don't think it's possible to not like the guy. I don't know anyone that doesn't, and I know a lot of Rangers fans, too.

Russielloyd

06-20-2006, 09:59 PM

I can not, F**KING wait till Sven leaves and pisses off back to Italy, i'm fed up of these defensive tatics

Saying best defense in the f**king world and they had no clue at all on how to defend their 2nd goal.

We're not going to get far if "i'm a moron" Sven doesn't realises we're not a defensive team!

Sweden had trouble scoring past Paraguay and T&T, yet they can easily put 2 past England.

We take the lead 5 mins left, and can't even hold on, useless.

I'm furious!

I Don't Need A Name

06-20-2006, 10:00 PM

However, why the arse was 3'7" midget Ashley Cole covering the back post? :(
You call that covering the back post!?!?! i call that, stood behind the goal line!! he could have stopped the last goal, but he was stood behind the line!!

06-20-2006, 10:04 PM

I have to say, that goal looked like it had been coming from a Swedish Set Piece. However, why the arse was 3'7" midget Ashley Cole covering the back post? :(Because he is awesome and much sexier than you. :mad2:

Disappointed that we didn't get the win, but aside from our weakness at set pieces we didn't do that badly. Gerrard's inclusion worried me at first, and I was hoping he'd stay out of trouble rather than risk getting a yellow card. Instead, he got right into the thick of it and saved us, twice. Joe Cole did an excellent job to play him in for the goal, and between them I think they've been our players of the tournament so far. We're still not good enough to win it, but we'll do for now.

Oh, and Sol Campbell makes me sad. :(

Psychotic

06-20-2006, 10:06 PM

Oh hello, my name is Frank Lampard! I'll blast from 20 yards out and miss, and then contribute absolutely sod all to the team! As Clive Tyldsley or Jon Champion or Peter Drury (all the ITV commentators sound the same) said, he has had more shots than anyone else in the tournament, and 0 goals. Frank, knock it off.

Joe Cole is England's player of the tournament so far, and would be even if he hadn't scored that.

Oh god, Sol Campbell. I don't care how the commentator started orgasming over a block for a minute. He played terribly against Hungary and Jamaica, and was at fault for the second goal with his air kick. Rio, I know I've said bad things about you, but come back. Oh, if only Ledley King hadn't got injured. :(

To be honest, it wasn't as bad as people will try to make out. We looked solid at the back except for at set-pieces - that was the only way they cracked us open - and Owen Hargreaves did alright. Not to mention the fact that all three of our substitutions were injury/fitness related, as normally we'd throw on Downing and Lennon, who can help push us on.

Quite why we fell apart at set pieces when we have Terry, Ferdinand/Campbell, Carra and Crouch I don't know.

As I said, I hope Rio's injury isn't serious. We all know what happened when Terry-Campbell were played in Euro 2004. We defended too deeply, and Portugal and France spanked us for it. Rio pushes the defensive line forwards.

Drop Lampard for Hargreaves/Carrick, Sven. Please. I won't ask you again.

I have to say, that goal looked like it had been coming from a Swedish Set Piece. However, why the arse was 3'7" midget Ashley Cole covering the back post? :(Because he is awesome and much sexier than you. :mad2: Correction, WAS awesome. Undoubtedly the best left back in WC 2002 and Euro 2004, he doesn't look as sharp in this World Cup.

06-20-2006, 10:17 PM

I have to say, that goal looked like it had been coming from a Swedish Set Piece. However, why the arse was 3'7" midget Ashley Cole covering the back post? :(Because he is awesome and much sexier than you. :mad2: Correction, WAS awesome. Undoubtedly the best left back in WC 2002 and Euro 2004, he doesn't look as sharp in this World Cup.He'd have to pretty bloody spectacular to match his career-defining showing against Portugal in 2004, so I suppose you're technically correct. I thought he did a good job today though. Joe Cole's tendency to cut inside and shoot means he doesn't get as much of the ball in the final third as he used to, but he's still solid in defence. He did a better job than Carragher, who really should have been moved into the centre of defence where he's at his best, instead of bringing on Campbell and leaving Jamie out of place on the right. I'm glad we're agreed that Ashley is sexier than Dan, though. :thumb:

P.S. You'd better have just been watching University Challenge. :D

jrgen

06-20-2006, 10:18 PM

A good game with a somewhat fair outcome. England was the better team in the first half and Sweden played a really good second half. Joe Cole's goal was amazing, but Allbäcks goal wasn't a bad one either.

Psychotic

06-20-2006, 10:22 PM

He's still our best left-back, even if Sven does have a bizarre infatuation with Wayne Bridge. He's improved with each game in this tournament, so I still have hope he'll climb those heights once again, but I won't hold my breath. Yeah, Carra does look awkward at right back, but with the Neviller injured, he's all we've got, and I'd take him over Luke Young and Owen Hargreaves. When the Neviller retires, we're going to have a huge hole at right back that will need filling. (Oh my god, I typed "Philling". Freudian slip...and oh dear god please no)

One has Loony BoB and the other has Cheryl Tweedy. C'mon. :p

P.S. ...why?

06-20-2006, 10:23 PM

Drop Lampard for Hargreaves/Carrick

Carrick Carrick Carrick Carrick I don't care if Hargreaves played better than usual his mere presence in the team is surely enough to lower the whole teams game by at least three notches.

Plus I'm sexier than Psy so it doesn't matter that he thinks. :D

Croyles

06-20-2006, 10:27 PM

One of the best goals so far, by Joe Cole, not THE best, I'd say second place behind Torsten Frings :p
Well done to England for getting to the top of the group.

06-20-2006, 10:31 PM

P.S. ...why?A question came up about a certain final involving a certain red team, and there was cheering involved. I thought you might've enjoyed it, since I think I overheard you say that you watched that match on TV or something. (A question just came up about Dennis Bergkamp too, oddly enough. Honestly, the standard of television these days!)

Now, I'm sure most of us are confident of an England victory over Ecuador, but what does everyone make of a Germany vs. Sweden matchup? I'd go for the Germans personally, but it should be one of the closer second round matches.

Psychotic

06-20-2006, 10:38 PM

Plus I'm sexier than Psy so it doesn't matter that he thinks. :<b></b>DOnly by one vote. :(

P.S. ...why?A question came up about a certain final involving a certain red team, and there was cheering involved. I thought you might've enjoyed it, since I think I overheard you say that you watched that match on TV or something. (A question just came up about Dennis Bergkamp too, oddly enough. Honestly, the standard of television these days!)Which match? I actually thought it might've been because my university, Leicester, were on it. If they are, I hope they fail miserably for not inviting me onto their team. :cool:
Now, I'm sure most of us are confident of an England victory over Ecuador, but what does everyone make of a Germany vs. Sweden matchup? I'd go for the Germans personally, but it should be one of the closer second round matches.The Germans have really got their act together since that shaky start, and the Swedes have only looked threatening from high balls into the box, something which the Germans don't seem to have any problem with. With Klose scoring the way he is, and Podolski getting a goal to boost his confidence, I'm going to agree that the Germans are the most likely to claim a win.

Loony BoB

06-20-2006, 10:49 PM

Oh, I forgot.

5) Rooney's football today: 8 or 9 out of 10. Rooney's sulking today: 10/10.

Croyles

06-20-2006, 10:50 PM

The Germans have really got their act together since that shaky start, and the Swedes have only looked threatening from high balls into the box, something which the Germans don't seem to have any problem with. With Klose scoring the way he is, and Podolski getting a goal to boost his confidence, I'm going to agree that the Germans are the most likely to claim a win.

:whimper: (Tears of joy) :hyper: :ty:
Thank you so much! l0l
Of course, it will still be a hard match, Germany cant and will not (Im sure) make the mistake of growing complacent.
I was SOOOOOO glad that Lukas Podolski scored, I was mored glad for him than I would have been if Klose scored a hat trick. Its kind of like the situation with Frank Lampard, except Podolski is new and really needed that goal so maybe he can start finding his rythm!

amratis

06-20-2006, 11:07 PM

Oh, I forgot.

5) Rooney's football today: 8 or 9 out of 10. Rooney's sulking today: 10/10.

I did laugh at the look on Rooney's face when he came off. 'Petulant 10 year old' springs to mind. :p Can hardly blame them though, least he lasted for longer this time. Fingers crossed for 90 mins next match.

Croyles

06-21-2006, 12:11 AM

Lol yeah, Rooney was quite funny. I can understand why he must be so annoyed though.

I noticed a while ago that Lahm has a really funny run. He's short, and he runs with his arms bent forwards :eep:

Apparently Torsten Frings stole the football from the first game lol. He had to give it back but he managed to steal it again :rolleyes2
Some bbc reporter said this:

"The England squad have just arrived here and I have rarely seen them quite so angry. Remember 40 years ago when they ran off with the ball, well they are up to it again. What a scandal. Torsten Frings has dissapeared with the match ball, and I think, this tells you everything you need to know about the nature of the german team."

Well done, you well and truly managed to show that the German team is truly evil for this scandalous deed. No words about the brazlinians stealing the ball too though... Hmmmmm fishy.

l0l I just found it funny.

Here is one of the many links, the video is in german but has the bbc reporter talking in english at the end:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhSsEjWmnCE&search=summertime

Oh and Russielloyd, I am now in front of you in fantasy football, even though I only started on Sunday! :p

The Captain

06-21-2006, 12:35 AM

This has been quite an entertaining World Cup thus far, with more than a few surprises and lackluster performances to even it all out.

I think Argentina seems the favorite thus far as they look so in sync with one another and seem to be gaining momentum. It remains to be seen how they play their last game of the opening round, but from what I've seen, they look good. Boy, are they deep too.

France, England and Brazil have all been sort of underwhelming to me. They need to pick up their play if they want to really do damage in this tournament, France especially since they won't have Zidane for the final game of their opening round.

Germany has played well, but I don't think I'm ready to declare them a title favorite yet. Klose has been wonderful, but as others mentioned, the match today was a sort of mirage since they were facing a team that wasn't fielding its best lineup.

Still, what's important right now is just getting to the knock-out phase, so all the teams that have done so should at least be pleased by that result.

I'm crossing my fingers about the USA. They played a very good match against Italy, good enough to win in my opinion and came away with a respectable draw. However, they need to move forward from this, not think that they've figured it all out. Ghana, even without their two best goal scorers for the upcoming game, has played inspired as well and can't be taken lightly. I'd like to see more Eddie Johnson and O'Brien in this game as well as Dempsey as those three are fast and creative and the USA MUST, MUST actually score a goal.

Take care all.

Doomie

06-21-2006, 01:39 AM

Owen is "injured" and Rooney isn't on form. Ouch.

P.S. Go Italy.

Jess

06-21-2006, 02:01 AM

Edit: YESSSSSSSS STEVIE G YOU ARE THE SEXIEST MAN IN THE WHOLE WORLD

Agreed. I can't believe we conceded another goal after being handed that beauty by Gerrard. :(

I feel terrible for Owen, the poor injury ridden soul - Hopefully it won't be that bad. :)

We really do need to improve dramastically if we want to get anywhere in this tournament. For example - Lampard. Pur-leaaase, stop being so goal hungry and play skillfully. Joe Cole has been amazing, and I think that Rooney did well today considering he's been out - there were little glimpses of his talent.

I hope Sven gets a swift kick to the face for bringing Walcott instead of Defoe.

Psychotic

06-21-2006, 02:19 AM

I hope Sven gets a swift kick to the face for bringing Walcott instead of <s>Defoe</s> Ashton.:)

Mind you, I'd take "One goal in sixteen internationals" Defoe over Jenas.

But seriously, what the crap was the point in taking Walcott as part of a group of 4 strikers, when one was injured and the other had just returned from injury? Especially as Sven seems to have realised, after watching him train, that he isn't good enough for international football, and refuses to use him.

tomamar04

06-21-2006, 06:44 AM

Isn't it obvious what Sven has to do wfor the knockout stages?

Play Gerrard and Rooney up front with Becks, Lampard, Hargreaves and Cole in midfield. Hargreaves was one of our only decent performances last night.

Loony BoB

06-21-2006, 11:01 AM

But seriously, what the crap was the point in taking Walcott as part of a group of 4 strikers, when one was injured and the other had just returned from injury? Especially as Sven seems to have realised, after watching him train, that he isn't good enough for international football, and refuses to use him.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - because he can't lose. I mean, the English already hate him. So if it doesn't pay off, they keep saying the same old thing about him. If it does, suddenly, Sven will be considered a genius.

Of course, that's only if he plays him.

EDIT: And I agree that Gerrard up front is a great prospect. He's done better there than other strikers have lately. Assuming England don't get another injury, the playing XIV should be...

Gerrard, Rooney, Crouch for strikers.
Lampard, J Cole, Beckham, Lennon, Hargreaves for midfield.
A Cole, Terry, Ferdinand, Neville, Carragher (Campbell should Neville stay injured).
Robinson for keeper.

Those fourteen should still give England a <s>great</s> decent chance of victory.

Right now I can't pick between Hargreaves and Carrick. I normally would say Carrick, but he hasn't had much gametime, and Hargreaves did everything right in the last game. Actually, yeah, I'd say Hargreaves. No reason to replace someone if they are indeed doing everything right.

06-21-2006, 02:44 PM

There we go, the offical word on Owen's Knee, ruptured his Cruciate ligament in the knee. He's out for a long time. Poor scouser. :(

Loony BoB

06-21-2006, 02:46 PM

Doomie

06-21-2006, 02:49 PM

I think 5 months was the final verdict.

Russielloyd

06-21-2006, 03:50 PM

How much did FA insure him for? I wonder if Newcastle will get any money out of this. I know the maximum is something like £20m, although I don't know if they'd shell out that much unless the guy died.

EDIT: Things looking good for a Neville return, though. Should be okay for the semis if England get through.

Insurance doesn't pay out unless is career is ended normally, but seeing as he's going to be for about 5-6 months, i think the F.A will pay his wages for those 5 to 6 months, which would be about 2.4 million.

Resha

06-21-2006, 03:59 PM

I'll take back every horrible, nasty thing I said about the poor man if only he miraculously heals well. :( Injury after injury, and he hadn't even had a chance to return to form properly. (Will he play after this? :/ Ever?)

5) Does anyone not like Larsson? I don't think it's possible to not like the guy. I don't know anyone that doesn't, and I know a lot of Rangers fans, too.
I loathe Larsson! :D:D:D:D He's a dreadful man and I was very sad when he scored.

Eriksson's put everyone in such a lose-lose situation; Walcott doesn't get to play, and England have to rely heavily on Rooney (just back from injury) and Crouch. What the hell was the point of bringing him if he's not going to use him? Why not Dean Ashton or Darren Bent, both of whom played brilliantly during the season and are experienced lolol? If Eriksson undermines Walcott's confidence and blights his youthful expectations and ruins his chances of performing well at Arsenal...

Mexico 1 -- 2 Portugal at the moment, and Mexico are looking considerably threatening yet, because much like Ingerland, Portugal are having muchas difficulty dealing with the set-pieces. Every single Mexican corner has looking threatening so far, and if it weren't for some awesome Ricardo saves, Mexico could well be level or ahead.

I can't wait for the Argentina -- Holland game.

Shoden

06-21-2006, 04:02 PM

This injury is pretty serious, up to 6 months out of action, goodbye intertoto cup. It's mostly the midfielders that score the goals anyway, put Gerrard up front, give it a wizz. The Sweden match was a perfect oppurtunity to test out Walcott and experiment with formations, wasted oppurtunity. Argentina vs Holland is going to be one hell of a match.

Russielloyd

06-21-2006, 04:05 PM

This injury is pretty serious, up to 6 months out of action, goodbye intertoto cup.

You just took that off ITV didn't you? :p

Shoden

06-21-2006, 04:10 PM

Yahoo actually. The FA says it will leave it it up to Newcastle to take care of the recovery and Fat freddy says it's still too early to determine how long he will be out for. One paper says 6 months, other news say 5, some say undetermined.

Russielloyd

06-21-2006, 04:12 PM

So you just happened to post it, straight after it was said on ITV?

Coincidence.

Polaris

06-21-2006, 04:12 PM

If the fame doesn't raise in portuguese football players we'll even defeat brazil!

Loony BoB

06-21-2006, 04:20 PM

If the fame doesn't raise in portuguese football players we'll even defeat brazil!
:confused: I'm not sure I understand that sentence, sorry. :(

Portugal lacking without the help of those that are currently carded.

EDIT: Perez sent off for a second yellow in the game. For diving! I like that they actually card people for diving these days.

tomamar04

06-21-2006, 04:24 PM

Angola have just scored against Iran...if Portugal can score another against Mexico or Angola score again...Mexico could be going home early!

Come on Angola!

Polaris

06-21-2006, 04:29 PM

Portugal is the best team on that group and if they keep their head cold and play as they know, we can be in a great place! Portugal already defeated Brazil once, it can happen gain! Thinking that just because Brazil is winning for a few years and it's the current World Champion (if I'm not worng, if I am plz correct me), that he'll win again, aw man that's not giving fight! Only at the day of finl we'll know who are the best!

Resha

06-21-2006, 05:35 PM

Mexico muffed way too many chances. I reckon Volpe should've subbed Bravo towards the end; today wasn't his day and everything that could stop him from finding the back of the net...did. I wanted Angola to go through, but meh. 1 - 1 there. Angola needed to win 3 - 1 to go through, at any rate. Goal difference.

Yamaneko

06-21-2006, 07:36 PM

I was expecting Portugal to dominate. Mexico really did miss way too many shots to the net. I guess it doesn't matter since they're advancing to the next round regardless, but they have to step up the next round because it's only going to get harder.

Psychotic

06-21-2006, 07:43 PM

But seriously, what the crap was the point in taking Walcott as part of a group of 4 strikers, when one was injured and the other had just returned from injury? Especially as Sven seems to have realised, after watching him train, that he isn't good enough for international football, and refuses to use him.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - because he can't lose. I mean, the English already hate him. So if it doesn't pay off, they keep saying the same old thing about him. If it does, suddenly, Sven will be considered a genius.I don't have a problem with him being taken, I just have a problem being taken as a part of a four when two were not fully fit. Would he really be hailed as less of a genius if he picked Ashton (or even Bent or Defoe) instead of Jermaine Jenas? Heck, I'd hail him as a god for not picking Jenas anyway.

And Stevie G, while a fantastic player, is not an out-and-out striker. His best position is a free role, so he can get all over the pitch.

Mexico played some good football, especially after going down to 10 men, and were unlucky not to get a draw. I predict Netherlands v Argentina will be boring. :)

Yamaneko

06-21-2006, 07:45 PM

I'm going to lunch soon to watch the game. Hopefully it won't. Two very different styles of football. We'll see.

Psychotic

06-21-2006, 11:02 PM

I called it.

Also, :( at Serbia losing to the Ivory Coast. Oh well, at least the loathsome Drogba wasn't playing.

06-21-2006, 11:10 PM

I loathe Larsson! :D:D:D:D He's a dreadful man and I was very sad when he scored.

You go die in a ditch. Right now. :mad2:

And Stevie G, while a fantastic player, is not an out-and-out striker. His best position is a free role, so he can get all over the pitch.

So, four in the midfield, Beckham, Lampard/Carrick/Hargreaves in the middle, Joe Cole on the left, Peter Crouch/Rooney up front and stick Gerrard inbetween the two and let him roam around? Give him lisence to go forward and attack or to charge into the midfield and get stuck in.

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-21-2006, 11:13 PM

i wanted holland to win that match
I thought Argentina v Portugal would be a very interesting second round encounter

Outer Heaven

06-21-2006, 11:43 PM

Netherlands vs Argentina was so lame....0-0. What a waste of time.

Yamaneko

06-21-2006, 11:49 PM

Argentina - Mexico! This will be good!

Outer Heaven

06-21-2006, 11:57 PM

I'm glad Mexico lost against Portugal.

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-22-2006, 12:10 AM

I'm glad Mexico lost against Portugal.
and I'm glad it wasn't as boring as last time (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-E6weZIdG8&search=homer%20simpson)

Outer Heaven

06-22-2006, 12:27 AM

HAHA I remember that.:D

Russielloyd

06-22-2006, 01:18 AM

It does look mighty tough for Serbia though, i don't think they'll pick up any points to be honest.

Hate to say it i told you so, no wait, no i don't.

I TOLD YOU SO! :p

Resha

06-22-2006, 01:20 AM

I predict Netherlands v Argentina will be boring.
Gesundheit. It was as boring as hell.

Yay Ivory Coast 3 - 2; considering S&M had to play the whole second half with 10 men 'tis understandable. ^_^ 'Twas good stuff from Dindane!

Loony BoB

06-22-2006, 10:36 AM

I actually fell asleep watching the Argentina-Holland game.

Blitz Ace

06-22-2006, 11:44 AM

yeh, i thought it was pretty boring too... geez, after what argentina gave us last time, i was looking foward to something special. guess neither team went all out cos they had both already qualified.

Croyles

06-22-2006, 02:43 PM

I wanted Holland to win so we can play our old rivals in the quater-finals and avoid Argentina if we win against Sweden :p

Doomie

06-22-2006, 03:28 PM

Marco Materazzi puts Italy ahead!

06-22-2006, 03:45 PM

Go Ghana! And this Italy-Czech match has been fun to watch so far. Campernezi is a total poof, though.

Edit: And now that Jan Polak is sent off 'cause of that dirty dive he pulled.

Edit: boo USA

Edit: YYYYYYAY GHANA

Doomie

06-22-2006, 03:47 PM

Camaronesi.*

Pollack has been sent off. Two really bad challenges. Let's hope Italy keeps their...umm...touch.

Man, Materazzi is like a giraffe.

06-22-2006, 03:51 PM

Bad Challenges my arse, alright the second one was dumb but he was nowhere near him on the first one, Campernezi(I know, it's on purpose.) is just a turd. :D

dragoonknight_kain

06-22-2006, 03:54 PM

Pollack is dumb. Oh, imagine if the Czechs score an equalizing. We can already have a Brazil-Italy game! Go Ghana! Go Nedved!:D

Doomie

06-22-2006, 03:56 PM

Italy is the only team that can really beat Brazil. *nods*

Croyles

06-22-2006, 04:03 PM

That should never have been a penalty for Ghana.

Resha

06-22-2006, 04:06 PM

Gah. I want the Czech Rep. and Ghana to go through -- Ghana are 2 - 1 up, which pleases me greatly. (I haven't been watching the game!) It was pretty dumb of Jan Polak to get himself red-carded though, and now the Cz. Rep. are at a huge disadvantage for the second half. No man is an island, 'tis said, but looking at Milan Baros submerged in a sea of Italian defenders, I think otherwise. Maybe a formation change?

Jimmy Dark Aeons Slayer

06-22-2006, 04:35 PM

Boy i can already feel it Portugal is going to kick Netherlands ass once again.

Let´s face it three victories in a row...that´s a lot of memento to go to the semi quarter finals.

06-22-2006, 04:44 PM

memento xD

Czech R. are trying really hard but any time they get forward italy have about three players just shutting one player down. Not that Italy are setting the world alight of course. Although, Inzaghi has JUST finally scored as I type this. He's looked sharp going forward but he botched those two chances before. He REALLY should have scored that header.

Doomie

06-22-2006, 04:45 PM

Inzaghi just sealed the deal. We're off to the round of 16!

EDIT: Yes, plenty of memento if you ask me.

06-22-2006, 04:57 PM

Yay, Ghana <3

Croyles

06-22-2006, 05:01 PM

I wanted Cz.R to go through with Ghana, nothing against the Italians, I just dont often like their style of play, even if it does give them the wins.

Resha

06-22-2006, 05:02 PM

Czech R. are trying really hard but any time they get forward italy have about three players just shutting one player down. Not that Italy are setting the world alight of course. Although, Inzaghi has JUST finally scored as I type this. He's looked sharp going forward but he botched those two chances before. He REALLY should have scored that header.
QFT.

Yay Ghana -- subliminally awesome. I think they deserved it, and the Ghanian people are so happy. :) Can't imagine how ecstatic these Ghanians would be! I'm so happy for them!

I don't know whether they deserved that penalty or not, but even if they hadn't gotten it, 1 - 1 would've taken them through. *happy* But the odds are that they'll face Brazil in the next round :/ But anyways, we'll see.

I wanted the Czech Republic to go through too, but meh. *Rosicky is still the greatest thing ever so shut up!

-N-

06-22-2006, 05:10 PM

That should never have been a penalty for Ghana.The most unjustified PK I've seen. If anyone was watching the Ghana match, you'd probably want Ghana to win it less than if you didn't. Their pathetic dives were almost as foul-smelling as Italy's. Oh, I guess that's why they're advancing, because there's really no other reason going for them.

*sigh* I need finals to be over so I can watch some decent football instead of only having time for the crappy matchups in E-H. There isn't a single match I'm looking forward to until Round of 16, or possibly even the quarters.

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 05:19 PM

2nd best and 5th best teams in the world my arse.

Disappointed that the Czechs didn't put up more of a fight, really.
*Rosicky is still the greatest thing ever so shut up! He had one good game, and in the other two he was mediocre. You're an attacking midfielder, and your team is 1-0 down and about to go out of the World Cup, do you:
A) Spend your time in your own half, running around like a headless chicken.
B) Actually go up and support your lone striker who is isolated and clearly still feeling the effects of an injury.
C) There is no C.

B) is what a good player would do. It doesn't matter that the holding midfielder got sent off, leave that type of thing to your defence, mainly because: YOU'RE GOING TO GO OUT UNLESS YOU SCORE TWO. And what did he achieve by it? Nothing. Italy comfortably played their possession game as per usual, and the Czechs were no more than a small annoyance. The most impact he had was when he actually went forward.

(C) is the choice of a world class player)

Anyway, it seems like the gods of football were simply against the Czech Republic and the USA, what with all the unlucky decisions that have against them in this World Cup. But that's football, and it happens to everyone at some point, really.

I'm happy for Ghana, even if they do have Michael Essien. :p

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-22-2006, 05:56 PM

*eagerly waiting to get a screenshot of Essien on his backside looking over his shoulder at Ronalindho with the ball at his feet so I can use it as my signature*

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 06:08 PM

It's a shame that he's been suspended, then, just like in the Chelsea v Barcelona games. Fourth time lucky, mobiletype. :p

06-22-2006, 07:11 PM

Poor Czechs. Without a recognised striker up front they simply didn't have enough firepower to qualify from such a tough group. If Koller hadn't been injured, or if Baros had been fit, they could have been a force to be reckoned with. Still, their elimination did allow Ghana to sneak through, so I suppose that's a plus. They're the only really surprising qualifier so far though. Maybe Australia will have something to say about that.

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 07:14 PM

06-22-2006, 07:24 PM

I wouldn't say Australia qualifying as opposed to Croatia would be that much of a shock. It would be as much of a shock as Ecuador qualifying in place of Poland - if you had to back one, you'd back Poland/Croatia, but you wouldn't be surprised if the other team qualified in their place.

Well, maybe you wouldn't back Poland. :pActully, I did back Poland; I just didn't dismiss Ecuador immediately like most people did. I wouldn't be too surprised to see the Aussies qualify either, but they're not World Cup regulars in the way Croatia are, so to see them in the second round would be a bit unusual.

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 07:26 PM

Oh, okay, now I can stop cruelly mocking you for being correct. Anyway, it's not unusual to see a Hiddink team in the secound round, or the semi finals for that matter...

Resha

06-22-2006, 08:55 PM

Is...it it me or are some of the countries on the poll struck out??? How do you do THAT? xD

Brazil 1 - 1 Japan -- I wasn't watching this, so how the hell did the Japanese score*? I saw the Ronaldo goal. Fairly simple -- he shouldn't have missed that one.

Australia 1 - 1 Croatia as well; excellent game, Aussies are brilliant! If they keep hammering the Croatian defence this way, they'll definitely win it. That should have completely been a penalty for Mark Viduka at the beginning there -- it was a drag-down foul -- but they got one anyways. Great free kick from Croatia too, but they haven't really been on the offensive, have they? ^_^ But there's one thing about them; they're very quick and very dangerous on the counter-attack, and then they could pose a problem or two to Aussies.

I dunno which game to watch. O_O Damn this same timing.

EDIT:*Okay, I saw it. Gorgeous.

dragoonknight_kain

06-22-2006, 09:02 PM

Brazil's defence sucks. It's the first time we face a team that really wants to win, and guess what happens? Anyway, the team is better, manly because of Robinho, Juninho and Cicinho, but Ronaldinho is playig in a position that keeps him from showing his best football. And it was about time Ronaldo did something.

Jimmy Dark Aeons Slayer

06-22-2006, 09:06 PM

They only focose on atack and their defense is rubish nice memento from Japan though.

JaytodaP

06-22-2006, 09:10 PM

I now hate bruce arena. Worst Case scenario the us had to win by 4.
what formation to use.......... 4-5-1? you have to be kidding me. It was obvious US didnt know what they were doing and DOnovan sucks at free kicks. how abput using more strikers and some attcking midfielders. YOU NEEDED GOALS. Im a usa fan but they did not deserve to win playing the way they did. It was the CZE game all over again.

Shoden

06-22-2006, 09:16 PM

Haha, USA fail. Us Englishmen have anothet thing we can use to point and laugh at the petty Americans and their failures. =). I watched the Italy match in a pub down in York, so I was up to date with the wins and fails.

Resha

06-22-2006, 09:55 PM

That Australia - Croatia game descended into the pits of insanity and confusion towards the end. What the hell was wrong with them? A pile of men lying inside the goal (and as far as I saw the ball didn't cross the line, either). Some of the Croatian players were handling the referee and Simunic managed to receive three yellow cards; a goal after the final whistle -- Jesus Christ. :laughing: Tomas is such a happy guy -- always jumping with his arms in the air.

Congrats Soccccccerrooos! :heart: (Especially YOU, gor-gor!!)

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 10:01 PM

06-22-2006, 10:04 PM

An excellent finale to Group F. Controversy aside, Australia and Croatia had a great game that could easily have gone either way. I didn't see the Brazilian game in full, but four goals is a good sign that, regardless of how they perform, Brazil can get results. Graham Poll's temporary insanity will be the talking point, but there was plenty of good football played tonight too.

Croyles

06-22-2006, 10:05 PM

I think Japan deserve a pat on the back for that first goal, it was really good. So far no one who saw it even mentioned it! Something called glory supporting :p

06-22-2006, 10:30 PM

I'm so sad I missed the three yellow cards. It would have been well worth missing my moms birthday dinner for that. :(

Bart's Friend Milhouse

06-22-2006, 10:31 PM

that does it, tomorrow I'm watching ukraine/tunisia, switzerland/south korea. I always get to see the lousier games. The Australia/Croatia match seemed to have more tension, incidents, entertainment and a better pitch than Brazil/japan. Brazils masterful display in the early second half would've got me excited in the highlights anyway but tense all-or-nothing football is best served live

Loony BoB

06-22-2006, 10:33 PM

I want to see if Ronaldo can go one better than his game against Japan tonight, and score a goal without moving at all, unless it is to get into position (from kick-off) or to stay onside. Because I honestly think he is the only person in th world who can stay so still for so much of the game and still get two goals. Sneaky bastard.

Croyles

06-22-2006, 10:37 PM

I got 55 points in fantasy football today :p and could have gotten 80 if i had chosen a higher point-getting captain ^^
Pay attention Russielloyd!
25 points from Ronaldo! Haha what a joke.

Jack

06-22-2006, 10:40 PM

I watched the Croatia- Australia game and cheered and griminiced with the same spirit as watching a England game. I guess that's how Australia have made me feel in this World Cup: A team to cheer.
I think the first goal by Croatia was well deserved, being that Australia were playing pretty much crap with their passing and play in the 1st few minutes. After that though...
I was gripping the seat. I was off it when their goalie took a brave save and held on under 2 Australians. Full of end to end action, plenty of good football. Except by former Leicester City *hangs head as Leicester fan* keeper Kalac. Shocking.
I'm just upset by how dirty Croatia got in the end, complaining about every descision. Until the whole THREE Yellow Cards problem, I thought Poll was pretty good. Now I just think of his a giant twat. They were speaking about (in the paper) that he was to be considered for the final game... He's blown it with that terrible incident.

I was desperate for Simunic to score after he got his second yellow. That would've been absolutely hilarious, although his third yellow made up for it.
If he had scored, would it count? Technically, he was banned from the pitch. I would have loved Australia finding that he was meant to be off, and then charging FIFA. Possibly more contraversial then the "Hand of God"

It would have been nice for Japan to beat Brazil, but it appears they just didn't have the quality to get to the 2nd round this time around. Shame. Still, their best player retired (Nakata) so it'll take many years before Japan are a serious threat like Mexico are now.

Croyles

06-22-2006, 10:43 PM

I didnt watch the last Mexico game, but wasnt their play mediocre?

Psychotic

06-22-2006, 10:47 PM

I didnt watch the last Mexico game, but wasnt their play mediocre?After they got a man sent off, they played rather well. And they were pretty good at the start of the second half, after Zinha came on.
that does it, tomorrow I'm watching ukraine/tunisia, switzerland/south korea.I'd watch those anyway. Spain are through, so who cares what happens in their game? And if news comes through to the Switzerland/South Korea game that France are winning, it'll be extremely interesting to see how both teams respond to that.

If he had scored, would it count? Technically, he was banned from the pitch. Yes. I think it would be no different than if the ball were to hit the post, corner flag, or the referee.

Jack

06-22-2006, 11:01 PM

If he had scored, would it count? Technically, he was banned from the pitch.

Yes. I think it would be no different than if the ball were to hit the post, corner flag, or the referee.

Pity, I would have liked it to be taken to a FIFA conference where Blatter stumbles and falls over his words. The world (except in Croatia) will be baying for blood. Australia have really captured hearts around the world and in Germany, because noone expected much out of them. A bit like South Korea in '02. But more this time because the Socceroos are slighty English. They are like us, and therefore a true alternative to England. It's not like I'm cheering for Scotland or *shudder* Wales... Although if Jamacia were there and were not playing England I'd support them (My Grandfather was Jamacian and therefore technically I might have prevented the 6-0 massacare.... It'll be 12-0 :D). Go the Socceroos... Pity they're playing Italy.

I want France to get knocked out. It will put a smile on my face. A big one.

*ETERNAL FANTASY*

06-22-2006, 11:49 PM

what a great way to start a morning congrats to the socceroos

Rusty

06-22-2006, 11:54 PM

Go the Socceroos! Congrats~

Strider

06-23-2006, 12:11 AM

In case anyone didn't notice, the ESPN SoccerCast called Ronaldo a fatty during the minute-by-minute log. xD

black orb

06-23-2006, 01:04 AM

>>> I expected more of Italy, but they were kind of disappointing..

Blitz Ace

06-23-2006, 03:55 AM

Hahahaha, Simunic's three yellow cards. Hahaha Graham Poll you twat. :laugh:

Glad I watched Australia v Croatia instead of watching Brazil spank Japan. What a game, and good to see Harry Kewell finally perform in a big game!

This tournament has confirmed my belief that Dario Srna of Croatia is the best right wing-back in the world (it's a different position to right back, in case any of you want to dispute that) and there were rumours that Liverpool had been inquiring about him, and I hope they turn out to be true. :D

I was desperate for Simunic to score after he got his second yellow. That would've been absolutely hilarious, although his third yellow made up for it. :D
yeh, what was with that, 3 yellow cards for simunic in a game... has that ever happened before?? seriously though, croatia are the dirtiest team i have seen at the world cup so far... australia should have had 3 spot kicks at least... we only got one. oh well, in the end it didnt matter, they got through, so im happy... but now we gotta face italy.

also... i hope kalac never gets picked as goalie again... what a mistake for the second goal!! that could have cost us everything

DeathKnight

06-23-2006, 03:58 AM

Like I said Mexico will win.

Psychotic

06-23-2006, 04:29 AM

In case anyone didn't notice, the ESPN SoccerCast called Ronaldo a fatty during the minute-by-minute log. xDPssh, my favourite football site (the sublime football 365. Today's mediawatch with the "Can we have him back in one piece please?" Northern Rock Michael Owen advert was :love:) calls the guy fat every 5 minutes, and Lampard too, for that matter.