OK. Here we go. Another 4 years has passed. Another World Cup about to begin.
Looking forward to seeing how a youthful Socceroos outfit preforms against some top quality sides in Spain, Holland and Chile. Most are predicting we will get smashed, but you just never know.
Key Dates:
Group B
13 June 2014: Spain v Holland, Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador, 20:00
13 June 2014: Chile v Australia, Arena Pantanal, Cuiabá, 23:00
18 June 2014: Spain v Chile, Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, 20:00
18 June 2014: Australia v Holland, Estádio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre, 17:00
23 June 2014: Australia v Spain, Arena da Baixada, Curitiba, 17:00
23 June 2014: Holland v Chile, Arena de São Paulo, São Paulo, 17:00
Waiting for someone to do one of these.
Aussies look in dire straights.
Greeks have a decent chance of progressing with Colombia, Japan and Ivory Coast.
Some amazing groups, Italy/England/Uruguay and can't believe Portugal plays Germany in their first game. To top it all off I go on 12 weeks paid paternity leave from June 10! Bring it on baby!! :D
Aussies will most likely struggle, but think most fans not expecting much seeing as though such a young squad. Should have played the kids 4 years ago. I like Ange's mantra though, so i twill be interesting to see them play against football powerhouses.
I wonder if any player can beat rivaldos dive for pretend foul of the century
Was that the one vs Turkey?
Yep, thats the one carrots.
Not feeling great about my teams prospects at this one.
Portugal best chance as always (the wife is portugese). Aussies will be surprisingly better than expected but wont do much, and im anticipating a Greek default...
Haha funny I'm a big Ronaldo fan so I too will be following Portugal once the Greeks get knocked out!
I'm trying to stay positive about Greece, the beauty about Greek football is we will know after 10 minutes how we will fare in the tournament. :))
Pity Malta did not qualify. ;D
Waiting for someone to do one of these.
Aussies look in dire straights.
Greeks have a decent chance of progressing with Colombia, Japan and Ivory Coast.
Some amazing groups, Italy/England/Uruguay and can't believe Portugal plays Germany in their first game. To top it all off I go on 12 weeks paid paternity leave from June 10! Bring it on baby!! :D
You've mentioned that before Carrots... how the hell did you get 12 weeks of paternity leave?
Well I work at GE. They offer it provided I become the primary carer of my youngest prior to him turning one year old. So since my wife is going back to work on June 10 I'm a collecting baby! Yeah! Giddyup! Not going to be easy with two kids but far from the daily pain in the ass that is work.
I'm impressed PI2C... got two little ones myself. After a couple of days looking after them i look forward to work!
I'm impressed PI2C... got two little ones myself. After a couple of days looking after them i look forward to work!
You must have a better job than me!
TBH it's a great chance to bond with my youngest who I haven't spent too much time with so with the World Cup it's good times for 12 weeks. ;)
Still can't get over some of these first up games. England vs Italy. Portugal vs Germany. Spain vs Netherlands. FFS. This is like some epic dream.
Waiting for someone to do one of these.
Aussies look in dire straights.
Greeks have a decent chance of progressing with Colombia, Japan and Ivory Coast.
Some amazing groups, Italy/England/Uruguay and can't believe Portugal plays Germany in their first game. To top it all off I go on 12 weeks paid paternity leave from June 10! Bring it on baby!! :D
Now there is some really good forward planning!! :P
The Aussies chances don't look great, a surprise or 2 would be nice !!!
Portugal would be my next team of choice, I may have some better luck with them...
Probably one of the most wide open world cups I can remember even though ive only been alive for 6 or 7 and thus should be very entertaining. For mine there is no clear cut favourite this time despite what anyone says.
There is nothing like the World Cup frenzy every 4 years cant wait!
Nothing like a bit of World Cup drama. Pure theatre.
Newcastle defender Paul Dummett must be feeling a little nervous if suarez doesn't play in the world cup.
some Uruguay took to twitter to give Paul some advice. ...this one is a piece of work
“Hi Paul Dummett. I hope some day you come here [Uruguay] to have a nice time with friends. We have things for you, like a bullet in the head.”
or another subtle one “Hey, Paul Dummett. If Suárez doesn’t play against England, you’ll never play again.”
Yep they take it personally in South America.
Something to be said for a ball that bounces predictably.
Italy all the way.
gli azzuri
Interesting just watching Real Madrid win both the Champions League this morning and the Copa Del Ray a few weeks back and watching Xabi Alonso in the CL who missed through suspension and Ronaldo who missed the CDR due to injury. Both players didn't seem fazed by missing their respective finals and cheered on their teams throughout the game and were ecstatic after their side won coming on to the ground and celebrating like they'd played. Compare them to AFL players who miss the Grand Final and it's a different scenario altogether. Usually tears of pain and devastation, even though their club has won, there are no smiles.
Just an interesting observation I made.
Interesting just watching Real Madrid win both the Champions League this morning and the Copa Del Ray a few weeks back and watching Xabi Alonso in the CL who missed through suspension and Ronaldo who missed the CDR due to injury. Both players didn't seem fazed by missing their respective finals and cheered on their teams throughout the game and were ecstatic after their side won coming on to the ground and celebrating like they'd played. Compare them to AFL players who miss the Grand Final and it's a different scenario altogether. Usually tears of pain and devastation, even though their club has won, there are no smiles.
Just an interesting observation I made.
May have something to do with the fact they are multi millionaires. ;D
LOL never thought of it that way but yes, that would be a reason to be happy. Imagine the punani these guys are putting away.
LOL never thought of it that way but yes, that would be a reason to be happy. Imagine the punani these guys are putting away.
Harry Kewell was talking about it on MMM yesterday.
Was talking about what it is like to be treated like a god and what is was like to earn that money.
Also made the comment that AFL players are hardly recognised outside this state but Football players are known worldwide... and treated as gods wherever they go.
In footy u could play every game but not the grand final for whatever reason u miss out on the medal. In soccer u would get one even if u missed the final providing u reach the minimum game requirement.
Extra incentive to cheer :D
(http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2014/05/28/1226934/635075-d5063fa6-e622-11e3-ba62-a129b4e220c3.jpg)
Does that sand on the pitch look familiar to anyone? That's where the final is being played.
The Daily Mail reports that the iconic venue has hosted 37 matches in the past five months – more than the Emirates (29) and Old Trafford (27) and the wear and tear shows, with organisers hoping the grass is rooted in time.
Otherwise, the World Cup might be just that.
Interesting just watching Real Madrid win both the Champions League this morning and the Copa Del Ray a few weeks back and watching Xabi Alonso in the CL who missed through suspension and Ronaldo who missed the CDR due to injury. Both players didn't seem fazed by missing their respective finals and cheered on their teams throughout the game and were ecstatic after their side won coming on to the ground and celebrating like they'd played. Compare them to AFL players who miss the Grand Final and it's a different scenario altogether. Usually tears of pain and devastation, even though their club has won, there are no smiles.
Just an interesting observation I made.
I know in the premier league you get a medal if you have played 10 games which is about a quarter of the season. In Aussie rules you can play every game but if you miss the grand final through injury you're not part of it apparently.
http://www.theage.com.au/fifa-world-cup-2014/world-cup-news-2014/first-xi-the-world-cup-games-to-stay-up-or-get-up-for-20140612-zs4lw.html (http://www.theage.com.au/fifa-world-cup-2014/world-cup-news-2014/first-xi-the-world-cup-games-to-stay-up-or-get-up-for-20140612-zs4lw.html)
Like to see the Aussies do well but the odds are against us so I'm going to follow Germany when we probably depart after the early rnds.
The Germans play some nice football but can never beat the Brazils, Spains's etc so I am hoping they go one better this WC.....
Though I am less interested this WC as the NBA finals are on and being a big Spurs fan I am hoping to have a win.....
The Dutch 1-0 down with 43 min on the clock, 1-1 at half time and end up winning 5-1 !!! Cracker of a game with some great goals !!!
Aussies up next !!
This is amazing from Australia!
Cahill loves the world stage.
FAARRRKKK! Could have easily won that game with a little more luck. That was impressive from the Aussies.
Aussies were all over them for a large pat of that game.
Did well considering. Sterner tests await
Ok. I'm no expert on the round ball but now Chile is out of the way it's gunna get easier.
The other teams in the group couldn't be much better. ;D
Ouch. Robben and Van Persie await us.
Ouch. Robben and Van Persie await us.
The scary thing for me is that I've HAVE heard of these guys.
A great 2nd half by the Socceroos, unlucky not to find the back of the net more than they did.
We currently sit 3rd in our group ahead of Spain on goal difference !!! :P
Cahill loves the world stage.
Cahill is a superstar. Heart and soul of that side. Great effort by the boys. As Carrots said, with a little more luck...
There should have been at least 1 penalty our way.... if it had been 2-2 with 15 minutes left......
Gee. 2 Dives and the Italians are showing nothing. Yawn. Hope England score to wake this game up.
Gee. 2 Dives and the Italians are showing nothing. Yawn. Hope England score to wake this game up.
We have a game now.
Gee. 2 Dives and the Italians are showing nothing. Yawn. Hope England score to wake this game up.
We have a game now.
Certainly do..... Out of nowhere 2 goals
Could easily have gone in 2 -1 the Italians
Gee. 2 Dives and the Italians are showing nothing. Yawn. Hope England score to wake this game up.
We have a game now.
Certainly do..... Out of nowhere 2 goals
Now growing up in Northern Ireland, we love watching England loose at anything, just like the Scots and Welsh do, BUT I can't stand Italy in Football. Hope England win.
Gee. 2 Dives and the Italians are showing nothing. Yawn. Hope England score to wake this game up.
We have a game now.
Certainly do..... Out of nowhere 2 goals
Now growing up in Northern Ireland, we love watching England loose at anything, just like the Scots and Welsh do, BUT I can't stand Italy in Football. Hope England win.
This Italian team seems defensively lazy compared to previous teams
Cmon England!!
Yeeeeeeeeeeeeees
Tighten up FFS >:(
Clear penalty to Gerrard.
Clear penalty to Gerrard.
Yeah I was worried there for a sec,
Forza Italia
FMD Sterling is a live wire, dangerous every time it goes near him..Reminds of Eddie Betts..
That was close.
8)
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
Correct. Worst press in the world. But the English can't help themselves. Makes it funny when they stumble. They do not do humble.
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
Correct. Worst press in the world. But the English can't help themselves. Makes it funny when they stumble. They do not do humble.
TBF I thought they were unlucky. They could easily have drawn but for a dubious refereeing decision.. Nonetheless will gladly take the win :D
England's problem is they all play in the fast moving attacking EPL but for some reason in major tournaments go all defensive and try not to concede. This was a step forward for them for sure. Re England almost equalising I have no doubt whatsoever Italy would've scored again if they had to.
Clear penalty to Gerrard.
Wasn't a penalty from memory
England played well but you could see as the game went on Italy stretched their back four and it showed.
Anyone catch Ivory Coast vs japan cracker of a game that was.
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
England will do squat in a World Cup with Rooney in the squad. He their version of Leon Davis.
we need a pirlo - one touch genius
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
England will do squat in a World Cup with Rooney in the squad. He their version of Leon Davis.
Mate did you miss his cross to set up the England goal? :o
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
England will do squat in a World Cup with Rooney in the squad. He their version of Leon Davis.
Mate did you miss his cross to set up the England goal? :o
No :o
Fair enough then :))
Messi. That was a cracker
Cmon Agey it wasn't anything spectacular.
Cmon Agey it wasn't anything spectacular.
I agree. The Italians didn't display their usual tight defensive strangulation game once they scored. They seemed sloppy at times, and if they play like that thought the rest of the serious they won't go far. Perhaps it was due some key players missing. Even that free with 40 seconds to go, previous Italian teams would have chipped it around and held possession rather than shooting for goal and risking a counter attack...
Enjoying the variety of fta sport of late.
The Netherlands/Spain match was a cracking game.
Yep just love the World Cup going to be so depressed once it's over.
Every World Cup England are way over hyped.
Having just spent the last month there and been there the previous 2 cups, they actually had the most low key approach i had seen. Most of the people i spoke to, said they have picked the best squad possible and while it is not good enough, they have some optimism for the future.
The funny thing Shadesy, is that game against Italy is probably some of the better football that England have played at a major tournament for years.
The funny thing Shadesy, is that game against Italy is probably some of the better football that England have played at a major tournament for years.
They needed to do something different. They picked, Sterling, Barkley, Wilshire etc to bring run and pace and impact. i watched all there friendlies and they still played the very English style of football, dont want to make a mistake, minimal risks but it doesnt hold up in the world cup against the South Americans and clinical European teams.
It was a great move they picked Sterling and showed some change in thought and tactics. I hope they progress just as vindication of showing some balls this time.
Meanwhile Aussies were robbed by the Ref and showed a lot more than I thought possible.
Im loving watching the worlds greatest players strutting their stuff on the biggest stage of all... Unlike the crappy versions of this in Cricket, Rugby etc, this truly is a proper WORLD Cup, with countries like Honduras, Nigeria and Iran represented.
Loving waking up, and sneaking in the Morning Highlights show before work, getting to the office, and cracking on the live net stream of whichever game is playing, and getting home, and watching whatever other World Cup related shows are playing.
The way the Blues are going at the moment, this tournament couldn't have come at a better time.
There's only been two negatiwes for me so far:
- Greece embarrassing themselves on the World stage, AGAIN!!! lol
- The missus and her continual whining 'You watching ANOTHER game ?', 'Aren't you sick of 'soccer' yet ?'. 'You're obsessed. I cant wait for this World Cup to be over!'.
The funny thing Shadesy, is that game against Italy is probably some of the better football that England have played at a major tournament for years.
Agree 100%, because they played the younger players, something us Greeks should look at. ;)
@Dom
We didn't embarrass ourselves IMO, we played a decent game but things didn't go our way. I'm confident we can get back on track against the Japanesi.
Loving the series so far, but the lack of sleep is killing me. I've hardly slept since it started. My whole routine is knackered. I'm surviving on espresso and TV.
Germany vs Portugal coming up.....or it should be Germany vs Ronaldo, be a great game this one and the powerful German team would need to be wary of
the brilliance of Ronaldo and not think they can just roll up and win...
Klose for the Germans keeps on keeping on and has been an amazing WC player...much like Tim Cahill.
Klose looking to break the all time WC scoring record!
Watch out for Portugal they are very strong defensively and far from a one man show!
:))
That went well!
:))
That went well!
Close game. Germany, just sneak home.
Clint Dempsey scores one of the fastest goals ever for the US, 32 seconds!!
:))
That went well!
One of the perks being German is watching the team in the World Cup. Perfect start to the day. Vielen Dank Herr Mueller.
I used to love the Germans, followed them in every competition, had tremendous respect. Then Angela Merkel bent Greece's economy over and I've hated them ever since. I look forward to them looking like World beaters and then dropping out in the semis. :))
Klose looking to break the all time WC scoring record!
Watch out for Portugal they are very strong defensively and far from a one man show!
Germans are very good and were too polished for Portugal but have the stigma of falling over in the semis and I dont think a euro team has ever won the WC on South American soil.
I used to love the Germans, followed them in every competition, had tremendous respect. Then Angela Merkel bent Greece's economy over and I've hated them ever since. I look forward to them looking like World beaters and then dropping out in the semis. :))
Amen!!
I used to love the Germans, followed them in every competition, had tremendous respect. Then Angela Merkel bent Greece's economy over and I've hated them ever since. I look forward to them looking like World beaters and then dropping out in the semis. :))
[/quote
Hah. ;D
That's one version of the truth. The other is that Greece is a basket case and deserved to be slammed. Lazy buggers and a corrupt government who cooked the books to convince Europe it was a fiscal good boy to get into the club. Great mix. Zero sympathy. The Irish didn't like it either but are stoic enough to shut up and get on with it instead of marching in the streets every week. Still dodgy politicians mind you...but they are everywhere.
The funny thing Shadesy, is that game against Italy is probably some of the better football that England have played at a major tournament for years.
Agree 100%, because they played the younger players, something us Greeks should look at. ;)
@Dom
We didn't embarrass ourselves IMO, we played a decent game but things didn't go our way. I'm confident we can get back on track against the Japanesi.
Sorry Carrots, but the Greek youngsters are babies. 23 year old Fetfatzidis still looks like he would struggle to run out 90 mins.
But blokes like Athanasiadis, Lazaros and Samaris? Anyway, more youth should have been introduced to the line up a long time ago.
Dutch Vs Aussies tomorrow morning. Will probably wake to witness the smashing.
Dutch 4 - Aussies Nil
Yeah, cant see me staying up to watch it...
Watched Germany Portugal last night (recorded) though, glorious headbutt from the Portugese backman, hilarity ensued for a red card.
But blokes like Athanasiadis, Lazaros and Samaris? Anyway, more youth should have been introduced to the line up a long time ago.
Samaris yep. Lazaros is a sometimes proposition and his form has been patchy at best, and Athanasiadis has shown solid form over the last few years but only in the Greek league.
These guys probably should have played more than they have lately, but I dont think they are signficantly better than what else is currently playing for us and may not have made a major difference to our game.
K. Paps is a big loss though.
I just think that the best of greek football is not quite up to scratch and solid competition is about as good as we can hope for.
I agree we're not up to scratch but we can surely do better than Gekas up front. That has proven to be a severe handicap in big tournaments time and time again. Also Lazaros has been pulling the strings for Bologna in the Serie A and looked the goods in our friendlies. He should be given a chance. Can't see it happening however.
I agree we're not up to scratch but we can surely do better than Gekas up front. That has proven to be a severe handicap in big tournaments time and time again. Also Lazaros has been pulling the strings for Bologna in the Serie A and looked the goods in our friendlies. He should be given a chance. Can't see it happening however.
Stands to reason that you follow the Greek patriotic protocol and show some support for a close regional and cultural neighbour. Italy
I agree we're not up to scratch but we can surely do better than Gekas up front. That has proven to be a severe handicap in big tournaments time and time again. Also Lazaros has been pulling the strings for Bologna in the Serie A and looked the goods in our friendlies. He should be given a chance. Can't see it happening however.
Greek coach must be Mick Malthouse
Lol it's way worse than that. Imagine Mick still had Kouta, Campo and let's say Aaaron Joseph on the list and was still playing them at the expense of Menzel and Yarran. That would be a good comparison.
@DU
Actually no it's the opposite for us in Australia, we hate the Italians though I do have a new found respect for them in the way they play and the fact they knocked Germany out of Euro 2012.....in Greece however they love the Italians calling them cousins. They have a special saying uno razza uno fazza. ;)
Lol it's way worse than that. Imagine Mick still had Kouta, Campo and let's say Aaaron Joseph on the list and was still playing them at the expense of Menzel and Yarran. That would be a good comparison.
@DU
Actually no it's the opposite for us in Australia, we hate the Italians though I do have a new found respect for them in the way they play and the fact they knocked Germany out of Euro 2012.....in Greece however they love the Italians calling them cousins. They have a special saying uno razza uno fazza. ;)
Time to respect the roots P2C, the real Greeks and Italians are like family. Forget the local differences lol
Lol it's way worse than that. Imagine Mick still had Kouta, Campo and let's say Aaaron Joseph on the list and was still playing them at the expense of Menzel and Yarran. That would be a good comparison.
@DU
Actually no it's the opposite for us in Australia, we hate the Italians though I do have a new found respect for them in the way they play and the fact they knocked Germany out of Euro 2012.....in Greece however they love the Italians calling them cousins. They have a special saying uno razza uno fazza. ;)
LOL, there is no Menzel and Yarran in the wings. You severly underate these two by saying as much. Its more so about playing Bradley at age 36 than someone like Sam Cranage or Murray Vance.
Sadly if its not Mitroglou up front we are in all sorts. Athanasiadis has not really done well against strong opposition and much of his domestic form is up against the easy beats.
In fact, I would have preffered we played Salpigidis centrally and playing Lazaros out wide on the right than Gekas, but I dont think it would have made any difference as we really had a hard time creating scoring opportunities in the final third, and that had more to do with our ball use than our formation, and the players playing. They were too quick to cross in, and moved the ball around the park too slowly when in posession and dont seem to understand that sometimes, patient build up and switching of play will open up opportunities than you could otherwise.
In any case, I dont think we were all that bad either. Sure, it was a bad loss, but thinking of our last 6 months and the amount of players that got into this world cup on the back of injury clouds and just non existant form, we have done okay thus far.
It is absolute BS that we finally get a star striker and he's bunged up for the WC plus the move to Foolham was just sheer lunacy. Should have waited for the off season. Now apparently Besiktas are into him FFS.
Bravo Australia what an effort.....and to think I thought they'd embarrass themselves like my mate Ross said, Australia have that winning attitude, they always rate themselves a chance and have that great Aussie never say die culture. Would be a great thing if they could knock off Spain.
My mate made an interesting comment......if Schwarzer plays this tournament the Socceroos probably progress through to the round of 16 Matt Ryan has been awful in goal. Schwarzer was playing Champions League semi-finals.
Bravo Australia what an effort.....and to think I thought they'd embarrass themselves like my mate Ross said, Australia have that winning attitude, they always rate themselves a chance and have that great Aussie never say die culture. Would be a great thing if they could knock off Spain.
Ill find a quote for you on GS where I said we will fair better than most think. The Aussies have the never say die attitude that many of the world lack and a proffesionalism to out work the best sides in the world.
I agree with your mate about Schwarzer. Ryan was ordinary, but its clear to me that this change was a cultural shift and a changing of the guard as much as anything else. The respectable thing to do would have been to have taken Schwarzer to this world cup and then he could have hung up the boots. Particularly with game 3 vs Spain a dead rubber now.
Still, I think we made the shift in coach too soon or too late. Holga should have taken us to the world cup, and Postecoglou should have taken over after the world cup and made the transition in the side. Either that, or Postecoglou should have been approached earlier so he could have started the changes 2 years ago. It was a very disrespectful way to end blokes careers early, and although it appears to have paid dividends, I dont see why we couldnt have taken lets say Wilkshire to the world cup.
So have the Aussies won a match yet ??
No but to put this morning's match in perspective, Australia had the most honourable loss you could ever imagine against a team that should really have knocked their socks off.
What a massive fall from grace for the shifty Spaniolos!!
I got up at 2:00AM this morning expecting a 'white wash'. Very impressed by the Aussies!!
I would've liked to see Bresciano play out the game a little longer, thought he was very influential in the first half. Pity they couldn't maintain a level score-line, but an all round very entertaining match.
Let's hope they woop the 'El Polo's Loco' outa the park.
And.... it be nice if Italy gets another win on Saturday morning ;D
I think Bresciano is too old he's pretty much done after 60 minutes, especially in that heat.
I got up at 2:00AM this morning expecting a 'white wash'. Very impressed by the Aussies!!
That's because Australia is the GWS or Dees of international soccer. On the other hand, at least Carlton fans aren't creaming themselves over almost toppling Geelong and putting in a competitive showing against the Hawks.
I got up at 2:00AM this morning expecting a 'white wash'. Very impressed by the Aussies!!
That's because Australia is the GWS or Dees of international soccer. On the other hand, at least Carlton fans aren't creaming themselves over almost toppling Geelong and putting in a competitive showing against the Hawks.
Same set of supporters Mav :P
How's this mob, This bloke head butted his own team mate while walking off the ground after the game.. http://www.theage.com.au/fifa-world-cup-2014/world-cup-news-2014/cameroon-star-benoit-assouekotto-headbutts-own-player-20140619-zsedm.html
Bloody Greece and its defensive bore fest!!
90 wasted minutes of my life I ll never get back.
As for England, well, if they didn't hate Luis Suarez before this morning, they d sure hate him now!! Suffer you warm beer drinking, national team overrating yobs!!!
Love it when the EPL stars destroy England
Bloody Greece and its defensive bore fest!!
90 wasted minutes of my life I ll never get back.
Relax re they had a lot of chances before going one man down. 0-0 was a sensational effort.
Can I safely assume that regardless of whether the Aussies win or lose against Spain, they will be eliminated from the competition ??
Can I safely assume that regardless of whether the Aussies win or lose against Spain, they will be eliminated from the competition ??
Yep!!
Plus Timmy Cahil isn't playing in the last match due to suspension, so see ya!!
But they've won people's respect, despite losing both their games.
What a farce this soccer crap is !!
How much does it cost to get a team into that competition only for them to be punted immediately ??
We got booted after the preliminary rounds last time and it has happened again. I keep reading how well the team has played but stiff crap, we lost !!
Get over the "honourable loss" thing, if you don't win you are crap !!
What a farce this soccer crap is !!
How much does it cost to get a team into that competition only for them to be punted immediately ??
We got booted after the preliminary rounds last time and it has happened again. I keep reading how well the team has played but stiff crap, we lost !!
Get over the "honourable loss" thing, if you don't win you are crap !!
Pfft
Feeling bored Sheik?
Hey guys, soccer noob here.
Can anyone suggest an underdog nation (with at least a sneaky chance of an upset or two) to follow now that the Aussies will not be progressing?
Colombia. Through to the next stage already, and probably talented enough to go on with it.
Thanks Thryleon, I'm officially on the Colombia bandwagon ;D
Hate to say it but I backed the Italians today, I just feel they are the best side I've seen so far, they have the right blend of experience and youth and at $17 I couldn't resist having a nibble.
Bloody Italians. Had their chances, just couldn't get it over the line.
Goodbye England. :))
What a farce this soccer crap is !!
How much does it cost to get a team into that competition only for them to be punted immediately ??
We got booted after the preliminary rounds last time and it has happened again. I keep reading how well the team has played but stiff crap, we lost !!
Get over the "honourable loss" thing, if you don't win you are crap !!
I'd have to say I'm a bit over the honourable loss stuff as well.
Terms like brave, battlers, unlucky and people making excuses for them gets on my tits.
I'm getting a bit cynical but I can't help get the feeling we were getting sold something.
The way the media have covered the bombers in much the same way probably has something to do with it.
Bloody Italians. Had their chances, just couldn't get it over the line.
You know why? Because I put $50 on them @ $17 to win the tournament to deliberately jinx them. Happy to pay $50 to see them bow out. Plus Sportsbet refunds your $50 if they get knocked out in penalties which we know if they reach the knockout phase of the tournament is a high probability. :P
What a farce this soccer crap is !!
How much does it cost to get a team into that competition only for them to be punted immediately ??
We got booted after the preliminary rounds last time and it has happened again. I keep reading how well the team has played but stiff crap, we lost !!
Get over the "honourable loss" thing, if you don't win you are crap !!
I'd have to say I'm a bit over the honourable loss stuff as well.
Terms like brave, battlers, unlucky and people making excuses for them gets on my tits.
I'm getting a bit cynical but I can't help get the feeling we were getting sold something.
The way the media have covered the bombers in much the same way probably has something to do with it.
I can tell you CIMM you're getting sold nothing, it has been nothing short of amazing how the Aussies have performed. Most people thought they would get beat 5-0 in their matches.
Bloody Italians. Had their chances, just couldn't get it over the line.
You know why? Because I put $50 on them @ $17 to win the tournament to deliberately jinx them. Happy to pay $50 to see them bow out. Plus Sportsbet refunds your $50 if they get knocked out in penalties which we know if they reach the knockout phase of the tournament is a high probability. :P
Do not forget PI2C, the Italians won the World Cup in 2006 due to penalty shoot out!
But yes, that was a very rare occurance. We are a funny bunch, us wogs. :D
Yep thats what I like about the bet....it's a win/win. Italians win and I collect $850, they lose and I enjoy the fact they didn't win. If they lose in penalties even better! :P
A retrospective comment about last nights game between Oz v Spain. We showed a heap of courage but geez the different in class was apparent. Although when Breshi came on you could see the difference in class between some of our finishers and himself. Am surprised Spain have performed as poorly they have, they really looked polished last night..
Anyway gearing up for the Italian game in just under an hour
LMAO can't believe Italy is out in the group stage.....won't be long, maybe another 4 hours and Greece will be too. :(
Switched off as soon as I saw Uruguay score. Italy's sole purpose in the second half was to stop Uruguay scoring - no interest in scoring themselves. Should've taken their chances in the first half.
Second World Cup in succession they've been knocked out at the group stage. Fooey.
LMAO can't believe Italy is out in the group stage.....won't be long, maybe another 4 hours and Greece will be too. :(
Perhaps not Carrots. lol
LMAO can't believe Italy is out in the group stage.....won't be long, maybe another 4 hours and Greece will be too. :(
Perhaps not Carrots. lol
FKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! OH THE DRAMA!! Did I say how much I love the World Cup? :))
What a game!!!!
Lost the plot in my lounge room this morning!!
Was late for work, but who cares!!!
ELLADARAAAAAA!!!!!!!!
If ever there was a reason to introduce some sort of video review system, or at least have a very good look at the whole penalty system, there you have it.
Very harsh result considering there was no infringement.
If people thought Fabio Grosso's dive of 2006 was bad...... :))
If ever there was a reason to introduce some sort of video review system, or at least have a very good look at the whole penalty system, there you have it.
Very harsh result considering there was no infringement.
Mate watch the replay from every angle he was CLEARLY clipped from behind. I'll happily give you my phone number and bet you any amount you want right now, I'll even put the house on it. Next time watch and don't listen to the English commentator. ;)
BTW how those Italians going? :P
@MBB
Even if he wasn't fouled (which he clearly was), it wasn't a dive.
https://vine.co/v/Mtn1b7zJAgP/embed
Didn't touch him.
Like I said, watch it from EVERY angle. The footage on SBS after the game showed an angle from behind where he clearly takes his left leg from behind putting him off balance and making him stub his toe. That footage is blurred, from inconclusive angles and all but one starts from after the foul. On the way home I was listening to SEN and Radar Maher said in response to tweets they have seen from all angles and there was CLEARLY contact from behind.
The gif shows he stubbed his toe in the ground all by himself and then he flopped. He has history too. ;)
Not only that but to have two players injured in the first 15 minutes and have one sub left for the game in that heat was an enormous performance. We also hit the bar three times as well as having a host of other chances. Bring on Costa Rica!!
The gif shows he stubbed his toe in the ground all by himself and then he flopped. He has history too. ;)
It's a gif. Says it all. Like I said, watch it from all angles on SBS tonight and I will be amazed if you still think the same thing. Just reading a few articles I see they use the terms 'Samaras upended' and 'brought down Samaras' etc. No talk of the penalty not being there.
100% penalty. better team all day and it's a just result.
The ivorian player fails to play the ball and gets the man.
100% penalty. better team all day and it's a just result.
The ivorian player fails to play the ball and gets the man.
Not to mention he tackles from behind. Stonewall penalty.
100% penalty. better team all day and it's a just result.
The ivorian player fails to play the ball and gets the man.
100% dive.
https://vine.co/v/Mtn1b7zJAgP/embed
Suarez might get banned for 2 years by FIFA!!
https://vine.co/v/Mtn1b7zJAgP/embed
Why do you keep showing that like it proves anything lmao. Troll alert! :))
LMAO can't believe Italy is out in the group stage.....won't be long, maybe another 4 hours and Greece will be too. :(
Perhaps not Carrots. lol
FKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! OH THE DRAMA!! Did I say how much I love the World Cup? :))
A Chris rang SEN just after game. It wasn't you was it? LOL
Yep. Clear penalty. If it was Australia though,.......play on
Nah it wasn't lol....but I think I heard a replay of it was he going nutso??
Chris,
I have watched the reply several times, and to me it looks like he stubbed his foot into the turf and fell.
At any rate, it doesn't matter what I think. It's history now, and it's worked out in your favour.
Have fun.
Cheers Paul. ;)
You need to see it from the correct angle there was heavy contact he basically took his left leg as he was about to shoot, from behind. Please note they didn't show the best angle until after the game so anything you saw during was inconclusive.
https://vine.co/v/Mtn1b7zJAgP/embed
Why do you keep showing that like it proves anything lmao. Troll alert! :))
The last replay on it proves there was no contact.
So anyway...the Greeks to play Costa Rica in the round of 16, not too confident TBH they have topped a very strong group.
With the chance of Iran going through and also Algeria the World Cup certainly has a worldy feel to it.
It's wide open, no one looks unbeatable.
@Paul P and MBB
Here you go. ;)
https://vine.co/v/MtnO7MAx0OQ
The angle I saw was even more damning, shows him step straight across his line and take his leg out from behind.
@Paul P and MBB
Here you go. ;)
https://vine.co/v/MtnO7MAx0OQ
The angle I saw was even more damning, shows him step straight across his line and take his leg out from behind.
I'd only seen the replay of him stubbing his toe. Having read the articles there was not a lot of mention about the penalty and that view tells a completely different story.
Christopher, you can call me blind, inept, crazy, biased, whatever you like. When I see that footage, I see as follows :
- the CIV player is behind the Greek player. His front (left ankle) bends in a forward motion on the turf, as if he is trying to stop, change direction etc. His left arm is cocked, and hovers over the Greek players shoulder, like he's trying to avoid contact. The CIV player's left leg catches the Greek players foot, but to me the Greek still looks like he's balanced at that point.
The Greek player to me looks like he's running in a balanced and upright way, until his foot stubs the turf, at which point he loses his balance and falls forward.
Sorry matey, that's what it looks like to me.
You get a sense of how much the World Cup means to people when your 72 year old father rings you up at quarter to 8 in the morning going nuts on the phone!!
You get a sense of how much the World Cup means to people when your 72 year old father rings you up at quarter to 8 in the morning going nuts on the phone!!
Is your father here or in Greece ?
Ah Louis Suarez, you douche!
Some great meme's etc in here on his bite.
http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/slideshowajax/newslideshowfootball/420540/suarez-bite-spawns-fresh-memes.slideshow
The CIV player's left leg catches the Greek players foot
PENALTY!
Trying to avoid contact does not make it any less a penalty. Samaras' foot clearly stubs the turf due to the contact made. Penalty every day of the week.
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
:))
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
But you're still spewing they're out? :P
But you're still spewing they're out? :P
Obviously I'd like them to still be there, but I'm not spewing as much as you may think.
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
:))
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Mate are you guys serious? The Italians wrote the handbook on that stuff. As for the World Cup most pundits have it as the best ever and I agree.
@Paul P and MBB
Here you go. ;)
https://vine.co/v/MtnO7MAx0OQ
The angle I saw was even more damning, shows him step straight across his line and take his leg out from behind.
You have my apologies. He still dived (as soccer players do) but contact was made and it is a penalty.
@Paul P and MBB
Here you go. ;)
https://vine.co/v/MtnO7MAx0OQ
The angle I saw was even more damning, shows him step straight across his line and take his leg out from behind.
You have my apologies. He still dived (as soccer players do) but contact was made and it is a penalty.
;)
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Crazy Talk.
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Mate are you guys serious? The Italians wrote the handbook on that stuff. As for the World Cup most pundits have it as the best ever and I agree.
I thought it was quite obvious I wasn't being serious.
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Crazy Talk.
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
And just for the record, it wasn't a penalty
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Mate are you guys serious? The Italians wrote the handbook on that stuff. As for the World Cup most pundits have it as the best ever and I agree.
I thought it was quite obvious I wasn't being serious.
Sorry, I thought you were serious lol. DU however......
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
Actually I think you'll find half the Greek side play in Italy themselves, the rest have all been playing Champions League football, the talent is clearly there.
I'm tipping this one stings pretty bad DU, chin up, only another 4 years to go. This is what the second time running Italy has failed to progress from the group stage? I can understand your bitterness. :))
FWIW the Italians were sucked in by the Uruguayans who will try any dirty tactic to put their opponents off their game. Italy got dragged down to their level and paid the price.
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
Actually I think you'll find half the Greek side play in Italy themselves, the rest have all been playing Champions League football, the talent is clearly there.
I'm tipping this one stings pretty bad DU, chin up, only another 4 years to go. This is what the second time running Italy has failed to progress from the group stage? I can understand your bitterness. :))
FWIW the Italians were sucked in by the Uruguayans who will try any dirty tactic to put their opponents off their game. Italy got dragged down to their level and paid the price.
p2c I was kidding ;), If it cant be the Italians then glad that the Greeks are still in there. As for the Italians we had 65 % of the play in the first half and failed to capitalize. I said 2 weeks ago that our defense was sloppy. You cant go defense for an entire game, ll it takes is one slip up and your stuffed. Some poor discipline whinging by our striker irked the hell out of me.
at least there's still some decent European representation. These south Americans have had a bulk of luck run their way thus far.
It just doesn't feel like a World cup.
This goes out to all the Italian players and fans going nuts over Suarez and Uruguay's dirty tactics...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jne9t8sHpUc
I think as I posted earlier on if teams like Algeria, Ghana, USA and Iran progress then it is very much a World Cup.
My sister is married to a Greek, her father in law was going nuts this morning.
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
Actually I think you'll find half the Greek side play in Italy themselves, the rest have all been playing Champions League football, the talent is clearly there.
I'm tipping this one stings pretty bad DU, chin up, only another 4 years to go. This is what the second time running Italy has failed to progress from the group stage? I can understand your bitterness. :))
FWIW the Italians were sucked in by the Uruguayans who will try any dirty tactic to put their opponents off their game. Italy got dragged down to their level and paid the price.
We may have failed to progress to the next stage in the past two world cups, however... When was the last time you Greeks got their hands on the coverted trophy PI2C? :P
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
Actually I think you'll find half the Greek side play in Italy themselves, the rest have all been playing Champions League football, the talent is clearly there.
I'm tipping this one stings pretty bad DU, chin up, only another 4 years to go. This is what the second time running Italy has failed to progress from the group stage? I can understand your bitterness. :))
FWIW the Italians were sucked in by the Uruguayans who will try any dirty tactic to put their opponents off their game. Italy got dragged down to their level and paid the price.
We may have failed to progress to the next stage in the past two world cups, however... When was the last time you Greeks got their hands on the coverted trophy PI2C? :P
They (the Greek squad) dominated the European cup and won it around the last time we (Italy) last figured prominently in WC..around 2006 I think it was.
When you have Greece, in their current capacity, progressing further than Italy and Spain you know there's something not quite right about the tournament ;)
Actually I think you'll find half the Greek side play in Italy themselves, the rest have all been playing Champions League football, the talent is clearly there.
I'm tipping this one stings pretty bad DU, chin up, only another 4 years to go. This is what the second time running Italy has failed to progress from the group stage? I can understand your bitterness. :))
FWIW the Italians were sucked in by the Uruguayans who will try any dirty tactic to put their opponents off their game. Italy got dragged down to their level and paid the price.
We may have failed to progress to the next stage in the past two world cups, however... When was the last time you Greeks got their hands on the coverted trophy PI2C? :P
The fact you have to resort to that argument says it all.....
Gentlemen, please. Let's not squabble over such things. What's done is done and it doesn't really matter. The important thing is the Italians have been eliminated.
A tournament that has no regard for sportsmanship and fair play is no place for the Italians.
nail on head.
Worst WC tournament in living memory
Mate are you guys serious? The Italians wrote the handbook on that stuff. As for the World Cup most pundits have it as the best ever and I agree.
Nice penalty the Greeks got.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YM-3CdprY0s
Clear penalty: https://vine.co/v/Mtnxa6HXg7p
Still shaking my head at Hannibal the cannibal. Dirty cheating biter.
Who should I barrack for in tonight's game Argentina or Nigeria... decisions decisions. Argentina it is .
Geez, its raining goals. 2 within 40 seconds of eachother.
Thank you to both sides for a wonderful attacking game of football. Can't help but Barack for both of these sides, great entertainment. Italian side should take note.
Clear penalty: https://vine.co/v/Mtnxa6HXg7p
That's the one I saw! MBB and Paul, see how he just cuts across his line and takes his leg from under him? Well MBB has already agreed anyway.
Amazing how social media is trying to discredit the Greeks by showing replays of the penalty starting from after the foul. :))
Lol@DU's avatar
Tonight's game represents P2C's description of a truly World Cup, USA v Germany. History says it should be a whitewash in Germany's favor. Think ill root for USA.
At least they got through to the next phase the USA DU. I really enjoy their style great team to watch play.
Has anyone seen the Wiggles take on Súarez's little chomp?? Very funny!
At least they got through to the next phase the USA DU. I really enjoy their style great team to watch play.
Yeah I agree P2C
They were in it the whole game, almost scored in the last 30 seconds. And their keeper is a gun keeper, saved some absolute gems. Glad they went thru..
Has anyone seen the Wiggles take on Súarez's little chomp?? Very funny!
Haven't seen it yet but I'll search it and check it out lol. Just as hilarious, is the reactions at the biter's 4 month suspension, their country's president says "i did not see him bite anyone" his coach says "there is insufficient evidence" pmsl it's on TV footage FFS .. .........
Germany 1-0 over the USA...thought the Germans dominated and were a class above the US and the latter were too defensive just looking to counterattack except they never got much ball to do that.
The money is still on a South American team winning the WC but I think the Germans can make the semis.....
Germany 1-0 over the USA...thought the Germans dominated and were a class above the US and the latter were too defensive just looking to counterattack expect they never got much ball to do that.
The money is still on a South American team winning the WC but I think the Germans can make the semis.....
Yeah the Germans look the goods, had it not been for the some outstanding USA Keeping the Germans would have scored several more times.
Louis Suarez in pacman form! haha:
http://bitemangame.com/
At least they got through to the next phase the USA DU. I really enjoy their style great team to watch play.
Yeah I agree P2C
They were in it the whole game, almost scored in the last 30 seconds. And their keeper is a gun keeper, saved some absolute gems. Glad they went thru..
Yeah about to watch the highlights mate BTW Tim Howard is the USA's keeper plays in the EPL for Everton.
This is the Uruguay President saying this in defence of the suspended biter. :o
"We feel that this is an assault on the poor because this gang..(he's referring to FIFA)... will never forgive him because he never went to university, he isn't educated, he grew up on the field, and he is a natural rebel and expresses his anger naturally," said the president.
http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/article/2014/06/27/maradona-slams-fifa-over-suarez
Or maybe he just bit another player for the third time in his career? :P I mean seriously who bites? The guy clearly needs help.
(http://images.bidnessetc.com/content/uploads/images/source5/luis-suarez-meme-mordida-11-51d92be1c60d1db1d2e5e7a07da55b26.jpg)
(http://www.saduseless.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Luis-Suarez_Bite_Meme_02.jpg)
(http://www.saduseless.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Luis-Suarez_Bite_Meme_07.jpg)
(https://scontent-a-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/l/t1.0-9/10457911_1491041317779964_8567168011890890287_n.jpg)
Germany and France through and square off next.....bit of a struggle for the Germans who keep piling on the shots at goal but cant finish...2-1 result in extra time and thanks to some brilliance from Ozil hung on to win.
French won 2-0 over Nigeria and were more impressive.....dont over use the ball like the Germans and make every shot count....I want to see Germany win having some German blood on both sides of the family but I think the French may execute better and a 2-1 result to the French might be the scoreline...
The Europeans appear to be struggling with the conditions and it's destined to be a south American winner.
It's only half time and it's nil all but the Swiss look the goods against Argentina. Very impressive counter attacking, these guys are quick.
Dramatic finish, Argentina through another European side bites the dust...
Cant believe the Swiss guy hit woodwork from point blank range with that header.
Yeah it was very unlucky, the game decided in last 5 mins of extra time and they should have equalized in last 30 seconds.
Spewing about USA going down, and spewing Germany plays France next game in what could have been the grand finale..
DU did you see the tricky free kick that the US nearly pulled off late in extra time? Would have been something special.
DU did you see the tricky free kick that the US nearly pulled off late in extra time? Would have been something special.
Yes I did carrots, I love the way they play, they're not scared of the big stage and they play with self belief they're not afraid to risks and aren't intimidated by reputation and history.
I'll go as far as to say with Klinnsman and a very young group can go a lot further in Russia in 2018.
I'll go as far as to say with Klinnsman and a very young group can go a lot further in Russia in 2018.
I agree. I reckon they'll be a real danger for some of the established sides in 2018.
Germans can barely bother to celebrate their 6th goal. Elwood and Woodstock should be happy.
Aussies would have beaten Germany :P
OMG my worst nightmare could possibly come true......an Argentina vs Germany final....no one to go for, can't even barrack for a draw. Maybe an Argentina win with a Messi red card could be bearable.
Ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah.
Seventh bloody heaven. My day is complete. My Mum and Brother are in Germany right now - a trip home. I'm so jealous, imagine the partying.
Incredible implosion and ruthless professionalism collide and Brazil are handed their biggest ever defeat in their history. In a World Cup Semi. At Home. Some of these players will never recover.
Strange strange game. Stunned at the result and ease in which it eventuated. ???
Have never seen a Brazil side play so badly.
It was a total joke.
Those dudes in Brazil take football really seriously. Id be watching my back if I was involved in the Brazil national team.
Yeah It was joke, they threw in the towel. Wierd shiat, can you imagine the calls of tanking if that happened here ? . I think they spat the dummy because of the injury to their star player and the suspension of their captain.
Nice to see Germany win but Brazil were very ordinary and their keeper looked like he had no arms and was playing as a striker...
I think the Dutch will win through and it will be a Euro WC GF....Dutch have some real X factor....Germany are very well drilled but may struggle in defense to hold the big name Dutch scorer's....
Yeah It was joke, they threw in the towel. Wierd shiat, can you imagine the calls of tanking if that happened here ? . I think they spat the dummy because of the injury to their star player and the suspension of their captain.
Brazil were literally hanging in the tournament by a thread. They lost their best playmaker (Neymar) and their best defender (Silva) due to injury and suspension, conceded an early goal and proceeded to go to water at the back. All tournament their full backs were getting way too far forward to attack and had got away with it but no chance of doing that against Die Mannschaft, they will slice through your defence like a hot knife through butter and they did....over and over again. Poor old CB David Luis their 22 year old make shift captain had no idea what was going on, and he was at fault for plenty.
David Luiz, the most expensive bag of sh1te in history, or spot betting with Indian bookmakers? :o
The sad part if you are Brazilian is that Germany didnt even need to hit 80% rat power.
It was awful defending from a group of players who play for Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea to name a few.
Honestly, the art of defending has slipped dramatically over the last decade.
Cannavaro at his best was the last of the great ones. Even Italy are producing pedestrian defenders these days.
I still rate the Nesta Cannavaro defensive pairing against Holland in a semi at Euro 2000 as one the greatest defensive efforts ever. That was defending with Coglioni
If Varane and Thiago Silva are the best going around, its a sad indictment on the craft.
Perhaps this is fundamentally a flaw in the Brazilian game plan, which is often 100% attack, but if you go 100% attack and the opposition can defend you're fecked! ;)
Love to see Miroslav Klose win a WC.. a real gentleman of the game and well respected....no drama queen stuff /bites/diving etc....just a good professional soccer player.
Prediction = Argentina to win 2-1
I just pray the Dutch win.
Would not put it past the dirty Dutch. But I hope the Argies get in.
This is a disgracefully defensive game shame oh shame.
Massive yawnfest.
DU, this game would have been a perfect opportunity for you to catch up on some much needed sleep.
Thank God the Dutch did not get through can you imagine they did and then went to 0-0 in the final and won on penalties again? That was their aim IMO and you cannot have a team winning the World Cup on the back of three 0-0 penalty shootout victories.
I really hope Argentina wins the WORLD CUP ,it will do wonders for the confidence of the people , pride and give a boost to their ailing economy,.
Can you imagine how the Brazilians would feel if the Argentines beat Germany on their home soil,would be like Man City winning the premier league at Old Trafford,
Based on what I saw this morning, I think Woodstock and Elwood's boys deserve to start warm favourites.
Based on what I saw this morning, I think Woodstock and Elwood's boys deserve to start warm favourites.
I think they will Paul but its down to Messi and the Argentine goalie to mess it up for the Germans(pardon the pun).....Messi can win the game by freaky brilliance and their goalie is very good but will need to be as the Germans have controlled all games they have played and have plenty of firepower to score.
Two contrasting teams IMO and lets hope its a game of skill and doesnt come down to some dumb referees decision.....
Want Argentina to win but cant see it happening. Germany are the best team in the world and the possession will be something rediculous like 70-30 in their favour.
If Di Maria plays, not sure on his status, they are a chance he is in my opinion their most important player. He basically plays as a striker, winger and no.10 for them.
Agree on Di Maria. Carried Real Madrid over the line in the Champion's League final as well. Just can't see die Mannschaft getting beat, they beat pretty much the same Argentinian side 4-0 in the last World Cup. Argentina look far tighter at the back this time around but at what cost? Lionel Messi having one shot on goal in 120 minutes of football says it all.
Germany 2-0 Argentina
Argentina to win. History on their side, no European team has won a world cup in South America and I don't expect that to change. Germany were clinical against Brazil, but I think that was more Brazil capitulation than German brilliance. They didn't even have to pick apart that defence, it was open for the taking.
I hope Argentina win.
I hope Argentina win.
Me too. ;)
Is the "World Cup" still going? ;)
It must be the most drawn out sporting competition ever (where's the ducking for cover emoticon?)
@DJC The sport deserves a "Ducking for cover " emoticon before anything else!! LOL!!
Is the "World Cup" still going? ;)
It must be the most drawn out sporting competition ever (where's the ducking for cover emoticon?)
bad pun.
I don't see how they could do it faster though, it's been three weeks and the finalists are about to play game six.
Is the "World Cup" still going? ;)
It must be the most drawn out sporting competition ever (where's the ducking for cover emoticon?)
Soft sport, full of corrupt players staging for penalties, who also appear to practice acting more than their football skills.
It's boring now and should have been over three weeks ago!
You could make it shorter by dropping it down to 16 teams only to qualify instead of 32.
The Aussies would never make qualify if that happened though...
Loving the extra fta sport, throw in Le Tour too. Good value during the cold winter months here.
Ok the last game, the premiership of soccer. My tip is Germany but I'd like Argentina to win because we have several members of family who migrated there from Italy. Good luck to both sides and thanks for an entertaining month.
Ok the last game, the premiership of soccer. My tip is Germany but I'd like Argentina to win because we have several members of family who migrated there from Italy. Good luck to both sides and thanks for an entertaining month.
You of Italian decent DU?
Wasn't sure who I wanted to win then I saw Angela Merkel singing the German anthem and I knew straight away I was going for Argentina! :P
Wasn't sure who I wanted to win then I saw Angela Merkel singing the German anthem and I knew straight away I was going for Argentina! :P
What a way to start the week. Die Mannschaft delivers. Fantastic World Cup.
One of the worst finals I've seen however. I think it was a great Cup up until the quarter finals. Full credit to the Germans they deserved their win. Merkel can still eat a dick though.
Very late on this one but it made me LOL
(http://www.101greatgoals.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-09-at-1.58.29-PM.png)
Ok the last game, the premiership of soccer. My tip is Germany but I'd like Argentina to win because we have several members of family who migrated there from Italy. Good luck to both sides and thanks for an entertaining month.
You of Italian decent DU?
Yes Literally, I'm off the boat (off the plane actually). Italian enough to also understand the deeper meaning of GTC, it was a big for thing to GTC and Chapel St in teens and early 20s. :)
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FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking
All | CAF | CONCACAF | CONMEBOL | OFC | AFC | UEFA
Previous ( jun 2014 )
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
Last Updated 17 Jul 2014Next Release 14 Aug 2014
Jul 2014
Rnk Team Pts +/- Pos
1 Germany 1724 1 Up
2 Argentina 1606 3 Up
3 Netherlands 1496 12 Up
4 Colombia 1492 4 Up
5 Belgium 1401 6 Up
6 Uruguay 1330 1 Up
7 Brazil 1241 -4 Down
8 Spain 1229 -7 Down
9 Switzerland 1216 -3 Down
10 France 1202 7 Up
11 Portugal 1148 -7 Down
12 Chile 1098 2 Up
13 Greece 1091 -1 Down
14 Italy 1056 -5 Down
Oh dear Greece above Italy. To quote the great Anthony Hudson, I see it, but I don't believe it! :P