FIFA World Cup 2010...

[Eki]

Go Brazil!!!!
:s mokin:
Easy for you to say.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

The defining moment of the World Cup so far was North Korea scoring against Brazil!

[race aficionado]

Easy for you to say.
I know . . . I do have the talent . . . .
:s mokin:

The North Korean team was impressive and that #9 had a great battling spirit.

It was also a clean game and it had sportsmanship, which is always nice to see.
:s mokin:

[Mark in Oshawa]

Go North Korea!!!!

You would...lol

[pino]

The defining moment of the World Cup so far was North Korea scoring against Brazil!

I totally agree and North Korea's first half was top class :up:

[Rollo]

Somehow I think that despite their differences, there is a sense of brotherhood between the two Koreas in this tournament. Media reports that I've heard seem to suggest a possible friendly between the two Koreas at some point later this year.

The North weren't expected to show any real fight against Brazil but considering the positively dour performances by Côte d'Ivoire and Portugal perhaps they are an outside chance of making the Round of 16?

In the unlikely event that they do escape, then almost certainly Brazil would be top of Group G and therefore they'd play the top of Group H, which would be Spain... and then be thumped.

[UltimateDanGTR]

I thought after ivory coast and portugal drew, that whoever put more goals past north korea and defended best against brazil would be 2nd in the group. (rather obviously) now, If north korea can do the same against the ivory coast and portugal, then it will be really close for that second spot. not convinced north korea will make a miraculous escape from group G, but they are gonna play a huge say in who does.

[Camelopard]

Australia was crap, I blame the 'fitness' coach!


Guess I'll have to go for the cabbage eaters now..........

[Valve Bounce]

Go! the Shockeroos!!

[wedge]

Well impressed by N Korea. Expecting to be whipping boys but they gave an excellent account of themselves. If I was an England I'd be nervous from watching that game. Stubborn and disciplined.

Only thing that let them down was the final 3rd but the goal by the #8 - cool calm composure to slot it into the back of the net.

I wonder how many football agents are lining up to go to Pyongyang to talk about football contracts with the Great Leader?

[UltimateDanGTR]

switzerland lead spain-for their all good football, spain havn't been able to score.

must be the ball

[christophulus]

Spain 0 - 1 Switzerland. That wasn't in the script!

[ShiftingGears]

The Swiss win.

[veeten]

I wonder how many football agents are lining up to go to Pyongyang to talk about football contracts with the Great Leader?

nah, it's just like athletes in Cuba. Want to defect?... Now's the chance!

[Josti]

The Swiss were well organized, they didn't create much but who can blame them. I still expect Spain to get to the 2nd round, but Chile doesn't seem to be a walkover either.

[pino]

Spain will win the next 2 games and will probably finish in 2nd pos and face Brazil in 1/8 that's very interesting :p :

[donKey jote]

bunch of donkeys :p

[pino]

btw on Marca.com...they blame the referee :p :

[Donney]

Of course they would... they are Marca...

[Eki]

nah, it's just like athletes in Cuba. Want to defect?... Now's the chance!
Actually, one of their players plays as a pro in Japan and one in Russia, so I don't think defecting is necessary.

[UltimateDanGTR]

uruguay beat south africa 3-0. gutted for SA.

[Tazio]

Actually, one of their players plays as a pro in Japan and one in Russia, so I don't think defecting is necessary.Yea they had a little bit on the one who plays in Japan on the U.S. coverage. ;)

[wedge]

nah, it's just like athletes in Cuba. Want to defect?... Now's the chance!

#9 striker defect to N Korea by way of Japan/S Korea!

[race aficionado]

bunch of donkeys :p

But very good playing donkeys.
:s mokin:

[Storm]

Wow 0-1 to Swiss. deja vu on the Barca v Chelsea game of last year but in that they finally scored a goal. Iniesta was being pushed off the ball too often and Pedro should have come on earlier. 4-4-2 if Torres is fit enough and Navas/Pedro to start!
But like pino said, this might mean a Brasil v Spain game in the 2nd round itself. Might be a blessing in disguise!

where's ody? King Otto to do something tonight with the team? Hellas were poor in the first game.

[ShiftingGears]

South Korea have no idea how to be aggressive without haemorrhaging penalties.

[MrJan]

2-1 half time, S. Korea nick one thanks to some sloppy defending and a bit of perserverance :up:

[Roamy]

Now I see why you guys always are fighting at the stadiums. If I had to sit though one of these boring events I would be kicking ass too !!!

[MrJan]

Now I see why you guys always are fighting at the stadiums. If I had to sit though one of these boring events I would be kicking ass too !!!

One of the most boring World Cups ever, I haven't even seen one properly exciting game yet :( I still love it though, there's something about being able to watch 3 games in a day that appeals to me.

[UltimateDanGTR]

the argies were a pleasure to watch today. with them beating south korea 4-1, and last nights 3-0 win for uruguay, dare i say it, but is it time for the goals to come?

so much for me saying before the tournement 'argentina:will they even get out of the group stage' Im pretty sure I was wrong now, but im still not convinced about their defence vs the better teams.

zanetti, where are you?

and actually, If they had zanetti, cambiasso and riquelme in the squad, they'd be in with a shout of having the best team in the world. well done maradonna for avoiding that

[pino]

Now I see why you guys always are fighting at the stadiums. If I had to sit though one of these boring events I would be kicking ass too !!!

You wouldn't be allowed in a football stadium anyway so...don't worry about it :p :





zanetti, where are you?

and actually, If they had zanetti, cambiasso and riquelme in the squad, they'd be in with a shout of having the best team in the world. well done maradonna for avoiding that

They are still one of the fave to win the title but with Zanetti, Cambiasso, Riquelme and Lavezzi (insted of Palermo) none would have a chance...not even Italy :p :

[odykas]

May I remind you that they have Messi? :D

[Storm]

where the hell have you been ody? Happy ? Hail King Otto and the stupid defender who got himself needlessly sent off! :p :

btw ody: have you changed your number? if yes some puzzled greek is reading a text message from me and wondering who I am :confused:

[odykas]

I've been busy watching world cup matches :p

Many thanks to Nigeria for the present, highly appreciated :p :

Thanks for the txt msg :cool:

P.S. Forza Italia :p : :crazy:

[52Paddy]

Mexico trounced France a few minutes ago. Delighted! :D What goes around, comes around ;)

But, even without holding grudges, some great playing from Dos Santos, Franco and a superb peno from Blanco :up:

[Roamy]

One of the most boring World Cups ever, I haven't even seen one properly exciting game yet :( I still love it though, there's something about being able to watch 3 games in a day that appeals to me.

Me Too
1. early NFL game
2. Afternoon NFL game
3. Sunday Night Football

Are you ready for some action !!!!!

[MrJan]

Me Too
1. early NFL game
2. Afternoon NFL game
3. Sunday Night Football

Are you ready for some action !!!!!

I get tired of NFL to be honest. I can watch the odd game but it's just a bit lengthy for my liking. I suppose that it'd be different if I'd been raised with it. Hockey is much better IMO, nice fast pace, no ambiguity over how long it'll take and a good possibility of a fight. I suppose that it's the closest 'US sport' (e.g the sports that are mainly followed over your side) to good old fashioned Association Football :)

[pino]

Mexico trounced France a few minutes ago. Delighted! :D What goes around, comes around ;)

But, even without holding grudges, some great playing from Dos Santos, Franco and a superb peno from Blanco :up:

I am delighted too because France shouldn't be in South Africa, so the sooner they leave...the better :D Great performance by Mexico anyway :up:

[Josti]

Good riddance, they shouldn't have been there in the first place. But it was hopeless with Domenech beforehand.

[Eki]

Me Too
1. early NFL game
2. Afternoon NFL game
3. Sunday Night Football

Are you ready for some action !!!!!
The only NFL game they show here is the Super bowl, and it comes after midnight, so I'm tired even before it begins and never watch it.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

I am a bit mad that all the games yesterday on my day off were tedious (apart from the Spain one that I missed because of work) and todays games were all exciting, but i missed them (because of work).

The second round of group matches are looking like thay are going to be better as teams are going to start going all out for wins.

Tomorrows predictions:

Germany 2 - 0 Serbia
Slovienia 1 - 2 USA
England 3 - 0 Algeria

But as we have seen over the past few days, anything can happen.

[Storm]

Exactly JB, the 2nd round of games has been really good and hopefully we keep on getting exciting games now.

Still to see a proper free kick go in from the useless Jabulani. Also, the vuvuzelas were quieter and you could actually hear the Ole and the chanting from Mexico fans last night. Finally crowd noise rather than the plastic bees. :up:

[gadjo_dilo]

One of the most boring World Cups ever, I haven't even seen one properly exciting game yet

Things will change in the KO stage. It's impossible to win the cup if you waste the energy in early games.
However I wish I see more goals....

[odykas]

Viva Mexico! :D

France http://www.alfisti.gr/forum/images/smilies/bye.gif

[Tazio]

Tomorrows predictions:

Germany 2 - 0 Serbia
Slovienia 1 - 2 USA
England 3 - 0 Algeria

But as we have seen over the past few days, anything can happen.

Here's to hoping your right, :beer: especially in regard to Slovenia vs. U.S.A. ;)

[veeten]

and with a 1-0 lead, Serbia is attacking Germany with gusto.

it also helps to have a card-happy ref on the field, too. :p :

[Tazio]

We were robbed!! :eek: Robbed I tell you!!! :down:

[pino]

We were robbed!! :eek: Robbed I tell you!!! :down:

Yes you were, I can't believe the referee disallowed that goal :crazy:

[veeten]

and now, it's England's turn.

but beware, for as we've seen so far, nothing is assured. :o

[donKey jote]

hehe I got to laugh back at the colleagues who taunted me with swiss cheese comments the other day :laugh:

[Lee Roy]

Yes you were, I can't believe the referee disallowed that goal :crazy:

For those of us poor sods who are stuck at work an unable to watch, why was it dis-allowed?

[veeten]

because of an non-existant foul, and the fact that this was his first ever WC match he (the ref) officiated.

I believed that FIFA only used the 'best of the best' when it comes to referees to officiate these matches, guess I was wrong... :dozey:

[Lee Roy]

Thanks

[Tazio]

^^^^ Actually it was because of a very questionable offside call.
The player that was allegedly off side was being held inside the penalty box :dozey:

[Lee Roy]

^^^^ Actually it was because of a very questionable offside call.
The player that was allegedly off side was being held inside the penalty box :dozey:

Sorry, I'm not fully versed in this form of Football. What is the "Penalty Box"?

[veeten]

it's the square area in front of the goal.

sort of reminds me of that botched call by Jim Joyce on Gallaraga' 'perfect game' a few weeks back.

Instant Replay, anyone?...

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Sorry, I'm not fully versed in this form of Football. What is the "Penalty Box"?

The "penalty box" is the large box that surrounds the goal. It indicates the area that the Goalkeeper is allowed to handle the ball, and if the defending team makes a foul in the box it results in a penalty against them.

I've just seen the highights of the USA game and I can't see why they had their winning goal dissallowed, it looked like a good goal. If anyone was fouling it was the Slovenia defender. (now Americans might understand why we have soccer riots over here :p ).

It was still a great comeback by America though. Donovans finish was really sweet! :up:

[Lee Roy]

If anyone was fouling it was the Slovenia defender.

So then the Sovenians were guilty of a foul?

[Brown, Jon Brow]

So then the Sovenians were guilty of a foul?

The referee thought different or didn't see it. But it looked to me that the Slovenian defender was holding the US attacker and I have seen some referee's give a penalty for fouls like that.

[Lee Roy]

Thanks

I really like European Football. One year I had the good fortune to go to a match at St. James field in Newcastle between Newcastle United and Chelsea.

I never watch the NFL anymore.

[Tazio]

So then the Sovenians were guilty of a foul?Lee Roy it did appear that way.
BTW sorry V10 you are correct according to information during the England pre-game bit, the ref did call a penalty on the US :confused: From the information I have the US team still have not been informed who this BS phantom foul was called on????

[Rollo]

We've been playing the "How many minutes until Martin Tyler mentions 1966?" game. I guessed 43 minutes, and he first said it 1 minute later.

I've just won $36... hoo-beery-ray!

[pino]

What a crap match so far...

[Brown, Jon Brow]

England are poor. No imagination or sharpness. We also look nervous in defence.

[pino]

England are poor. No imagination or sharpness. We also look nervous in defence.

...and in a very bad shape too :s

[veeten]

man, those algerians are fast, no wonder the english were mostly in a defensive mode for most of the first half.

Well, second half up, now...

[Brown, Jon Brow]

England are as bad as France :s

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Dreadful. England aren't good enough to win a throw-in.

[veeten]

what the hell was that?...

no chemistry, whatsoever. And, at every turn, the algerians were blocking shots, stealing passes, and making them look like a mid-fielding MLS team, and that's pretty bad.

Big bounce back needed...

[Daniel]

w00t. One game close to a lot of people crying into their beers :D

[Roamy]

Hey where did you guys get the fag referee
well its ok cuz in your sport a tie is as good as a win

[Rollo]

Hey where did you guys get the fag referee
well its ok cuz in your sport a tie is as good as a win

In football when they hold a world cup they invite... the world.

[Ranger]

Atrocious referee for the USA-Slovenia match. :down:

USA deserved to win, hands down.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Why won't Capello play Joe Cole? He is one of the few England players who has a creative mind. We don't need a defensive midfielder against Algeria!!!! :mad:

P.S Heskey is a donk!

[UltimateDanGTR]

awful awful england. i blame the players just as much as the manager if not more so.

at least the usa and slovenia provided us with an exciting match.

[pino]

England can still qualify to 1/8 unless they are starting to insults eachother like the french do :eek:

http://www.lequipe.fr/Quotidien/home_v2.html

[UltimateDanGTR]

yep, as the french show, it could be a lot worse for england.

as a side not, IF mexico win their group, would anyone bet against them reaching the semis? I think the mexicans could go that far, presuming they beat uruguay and argentina win their group.

[odykas]

I can't believe the ref denied this goal to US :mad:
I'm really sorry because they deserved to win.

[pino]

I can't believe the ref denied this goal to US :mad:
I'm really sorry because they deserved to win.

ody are you ok ? you are supporting USA ? :s hock:

[52Paddy]

Saw one and a half matches yesterday. Germany squandered too many chances against Serbia. Any time the ball got near the box, they didn't know what to do with it.

First half of the England match was good. They were really shown up by Algeria. Then I had to go out, but I was happy with the final result :D

[veeten]

ody are you ok ? you are supporting USA ? :s hock:

I think he, like the majority of us, believe in fair and honest officiating, and not 'judgement calls' based on poor positioning by the ref. What's worse is that there is no explination by said ref, and then he chooses to hide behind FIFA rather than stating the case. On top of that, the heads of FIFA choose to act like the 'old donkeys' that they are and be oblivious to the matter.

There has been too many bad calls during this WC, and there will be a lot for the ruling body to answer for. Unfortunately, there will be the usual 'sweeping under the rug' of all this and too much PR attempts to have us all forget the 'unpleasant' matters. It's the tactic that old men in power are most famous for...

Rant over.

[janneppi]

I can't believe the ref denied this goal to US :mad:
I'm really sorry because they deserved to win.
I think the ref was looking for an easy foul from the US team since to get the free kick the American did a bit of dive in the first place. Still, two wrongs don't make a right, not left either. ;)

Just as I'm typing this , an Aussie player is awarded a red card for playing the ball with his hand, a bit iffy call IMO since the ball hits him in the upper part of his arm.

[Ranger]

I think the ref was looking for an easy foul from the US team since to get the free kick the American did a bit of dive in the first place. Still, two wrongs don't make a right, not left either. ;)

Just as I'm typing this , an Aussie player is awarded a red card for playing the ball with his hand, a bit iffy call IMO since the ball hits him in the upper part of his arm.

Red card!! :s hock:

Disgraceful.

Australia should just train with 10 men because that's as many end up on the field these days! :\

[UltimateDanGTR]

harsh red card for the aussies. it was definatly not a delibrate handball IMO. i wonder how far kewell could have got out of the way though.

[odykas]

ody are you ok ? you are supporting USA ? :s hock:

Yes. I like this team. They did very year last year in confederations cup.

[markabilly]

soceer or football has become like NBA basketball, where the dominant force in many a game, is not a particular player....but a ref....

[pino]

Yes. I like this team. They did very year last year in confederations cup.

You have changed a lot my friend...that's good :up: :p :

[Tazio]

soceer or football has become like NBA basketball, where the dominant force in many a game, is not a particular player....but a ref....Except in the NBA it would require at least ten egregious penalties to be equivalent to wrongfully disallowing a goal in a footy :evil:

[jens]

Haven't written anything here yet, but now it's time to do it. :D As always, my personal favourite is Germany. But I also cheer for Cote d'Ivoire and Japan. :)

Anyway, the expected European top teams haven't managed to leave a serious impression. The Netherlands has won two games out of two, but ITA, GER, ENG, ESP, also POR all have to push hard to make it through the group phase. It may well be over for FRA already.

I personally find that Group G very exciting. CIV really must get at least a draw against BRA to keep its hopes of making through the group phase alive. Against Portugal they seemed to have a slight advantage in midfield, but the final crosses were quite poor. North Korea is also quite a fun team - let's see, how will their defence and well-organized game strategy work in the next games. :D

Btw, I don't know why, but in terms of appearance Maradona somehow reminds me an ancient Greek philosopher. :p :

[Eki]

Btw, I don't know why, but in terms of appearance Maradona somehow reminds me an ancient Greek philosopher. :p :
Soccerates?

[ShiftingGears]

More mentally unwell refereeing in the World Cup. Great.

[52Paddy]

Some decent matches today.

Whether or not Kewell should have been sent off is one thing, but I certainly believe that Ghana's shot (Gyan was it?) was well on target!

And it's goodbye Cameroon also. I thought both them and Denmark were fairly evenly matched but had flaws in different areas. Denmark were so bad in the first 10-15 minutes but after Cam scored, they found some enthusiasm. What I found a little annoying was that Denmark had some great defence going on when Cam were given a free or a corner. But when any Cam players got the ball into Denmark's box, there were so many open doors :mark:

But I will give a worthy mention about Rommadahl's goal. Perfectly executed in a difficult situation :up:

[pino]

Many surprises so far, let's hope New Zealand won't surprise Italy :D I wouldn't mind a surprise in Brazil vs Ivory Coast though :p :

[Hondo]

So how many do you have to lose before you are eliminated from this thing?

[ShiftingGears]

So how many do you have to lose before you are eliminated from this thing?

It's still the first round, so the top two pointscorers from each group go to the next round.

[veeten]

Many surprises so far, let's hope New Zealand won't surprise Italy :D

and there's the suprise! :p

ITA 0-1 NZL

[pino]

1-1 :s Hopefully Di Natale or Camoranesi plays on 2nd half insted of useless Marchisio...

[veeten]

good comeback by Italy. :)

boy, it is a total mess for the French... :s

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5307299/ce/us/france-team-director-jean-louis-valentin-resigns-says-team-refused-practice?cc=5901&ver=us

can you say 'meltdown', children?...

[dunes]

It's still the first round, so the top two pointscorers from each group go to the next round.
Excuse my ignorance:
But what if the 2nd and 3rd place teams are equal in points, like thus far is apparent in more than one bracket?
I'm still learing this game, from a pro stand point. I can keep up with the kids out back but not for real.
I am interested why refs don't have to have any expleatioon and are above interviews when they have for years been so wishy washy.

[veeten]

Kiwis, stand up and cheer!!! :D :D

ITA 1-1 NZL

[pino]

1-1 what a crazy World Cup so far :crazy: well done New Zealand anyway :up:

[jens]

I have a feeling that besides France one more European giant is going to fall after the group stage...

[odykas]

Surprise! http://www.softlab.ntua.gr/%7Esiochos/smilies/surprise.gifhttp://www.softlab.ntua.gr/%7Esiochos/smilies/surprise.gifhttp://www.softlab.ntua.gr/%7Esiochos/smilies/surprise.gif



Go Cote d'Ivoire :)

[janneppi]

Excuse my ignorance:
But what if the 2nd and 3rd place teams are equal in points, like thus far is apparent in more than one bracket?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup

If two or more teams are equal on the basis of the above three criteria, tiebreakers are used as follows:
-greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned;
-goal difference resulting from the group matches between the teams concerned;
-greater number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams concerned;
-drawing of lots by the FIFA Organising Committee. (i.e., determining team positions at random).

[dunes]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_World_Cup
Thanks now for the calculator

[pino]

I have a feeling that besides France one more European giant is going to fall after the group stage...


Me too...go Cote d'Ivoire :p :

[ioan]

I am interested why refs don't have to have any expleatioon and are above interviews when they have for years been so wishy washy.

Welcome to the world of the most dictatorial sport, where the dictator's mistakes are considered part of the 'game' (according to the fifa president).

I won't even go into details about the other crap that happens in football.

[race aficionado]

Go Brazil!!!!!
:s mokin:

[Eki]

Go North Korea!

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Go Brazil!!!!!
:s mokin:

I really want the Ivory Coast to win :p I don't like Brazil.

But I get a feeling the winners of this tournament is either going to be Brazil or Argentina. :(

[race aficionado]

I really want the Ivory Coast to win :p I don't like Brazil.

But I get a feeling the winners of this tournament is either going to be Brazil or Argentina. :(

I've always rooted for Brazil - always a sentimental favorite in my native Colombia - and this year, because of my admiration for Messi, I have Argentina as the faves to win the whole enchilada - and I expect Spain to be battling for the championship as well.
:s mokin:

[pino]

French players refused to train after Anelka was sent home :

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8750302.stm

[UltimateDanGTR]

ah, harmony in the french camp. (mwahaha!)

well done new zealand, fantastic job against the world champs!

[dunes]

Welcome to the world of the most dictatorial sport, where the dictator's mistakes are considered part of the 'game' (according to the fifa president).

I won't even go into details about the other crap that happens in football.
So before my batteries went bad I come to the conclusion that as of this morning the US would advance and England would go home. Right. :p :

As for the officiating if this is how they plan to get world acceptence I think they need to be more stealthy about the calling and not so obvious. :vader: I don't see many americans buying a ticket for a rigged sport. Oh Wait is Wrestling a sport. :eek:
Am I playing the game right.

[Ranger]

and there's the suprise! :p

ITA 0-1 NZL

Daniele de Rossi dived after he was let go by the NZL defender. :down:

New Zealand deserved to win.

Its a shame this world cup is being let down by atrocious rule enforcement.

[ShiftingGears]

http://www.acegames.us/forum/attachments/jokes-section/124276d1238173579t-football-team-tactics-27-03-2009-17.46.09.jpg

[ShiftingGears]

Just saw the Kaka red card. Video refereeing needed.

[Eki]

Just saw the Kaka red card. Video refereeing needed.
Probably wouldn't done any difference in that case. Replay clearly showed that Kaka hit with his elbow the CIV player.

[UltimateDanGTR]

why don't FIFA use video replay? because they're too proud and old fashioned? move with the times people of football's world governing body. that way, Kaka would have never have got sent off, for me he raised his elbow just to protect himself, more to the point the ivory coast player walked into him, seemingly delibrately. ridiculous decision, ridiculous refereeing and ridiculous play acting by the ivory coast player.


at least the rest of the game was good! another good day of football today, the world cup has since the start of the second round actually kicked off. but somebody forgot to tell france and england that.

[MrJan]

FIFA want the football played in Sunday league to be essentially the same game as in the World Cup. No replays in Sunday league means no replays in WC. Crimples.

[pino]

So many ridiculous decisions by referee so far and still stupid Blatter (FIFA's president) don't want to use the video-reply...idiots :down:

[Brown, Jon Brow]

I know I'm not allowed to say this but..........................I find Brazil boring :\

The game against the Ivory Coast only got interesting when they started kicking each other.

[Ranger]

So many ridiculous decisions by referee so far and still stupid Blatter (FIFA's president) don't want to use the video-reply...idiots :down:

Agree 100%.

[jens]

Actually things got only tougher for CIV thanks to that red card, because Portugal will have it easier against Brazil with its weakened line-up.

[Valve Bounce]

Daniele de Rossi dived after he was let go by the NZL defender. :down:

New Zealand deserved to win.

Its a shame this world cup is being let down by atrocious rule enforcement.

Typical Italian cheating once again. Pity the review board hasn't the power to ban the diver de Rossi for the rest of the tournament.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Typical Italian cheating once again. Pity the review board hasn't the power to ban the diver de Rossi for the rest of the tournament.

That would be a bit harsh :p

I wish footballers still had the attidude that 'if he kicks me i'll kick him back harder'. Instead they think, if he kicks me I'm going to go flying and try and get him sent-off. :(

[Daniel]

That's why I prefer rugby. If something like that happens and someone deliberately hurts someone then they hurt them back.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

That's why I prefer rugby. If something like that happens and someone deliberately hurts someone then they hurt them back.

It happens in the 5-a-side football league I play in. I'm not satisfied unless I have some 'battle scars' after a game.

[odykas]

I know I'm not allowed to say this but..........................I find Brazil boring :\

The game against the Ivory Coast only got interesting when they started kicking each other.

Before kick-boxing we enjoyed volleyball :mad:

Stupid FIFA :down:

[Eki]

Go North Korea!!!

[odykas]

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/6817/fb1o.jpg

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/2099/fb2k.jpg

http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/5886/fb3a.jpg

http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/1913/fb4b.jpg


This guy is a joke :down:

[veeten]

Go North Korea!!!

looks more like go home, North Korea. :p

[Valve Bounce]

That would be a bit harsh :p

I wish footballers still had the attitude that 'if he kicks me I'll kick him back harder'. Instead they think, if he kicks me I'm going to go flying and try and get him sent-off. :(

How about "I'm going to take a dive if he pulls my shirt" ? That way, Italy gets a penalty and NZ gets a draw instead of a win.

Now this sort of behavior may only mean a couple of points in a club match, but during a World Cup, it can change the whole course of the competition. This sort of cheating can be reviewed from video replays, and the culprit ejected from the World Cup.

Remember the 1990 qualifier between Chile and Brazil when the goal keeper faked injury. Chile was disqualified from the 1994 World Cup as a result.

No! I don't think it is too harsh. Too harsh would be the penalty revoked and Italy get's to lose the game.

[Ranger]

7-0!

Portugal vs. Brazil will be interesting but you'd have to put money on Portugal after that!

[Garry Walker]

Always lovely to see communists getting destroyed.
Its not that I watch footy, its highly boring, but I just saw the result and thought I`d express my happyness over commy sh!ts getting humiliated. Just lovely.

[JRodrigues]

7-0!

Portugal vs. Brazil will be interesting but you'd have to put money on Portugal after that!

Unofrtunately, I wouldn't :( :(

[odykas]

Now or never for Spain.. let's see :)

[52Paddy]

Saw the first half of Portugal v North Korea. NK didn't look like they were playing that bad in comparison. Not 7-0 bad anyway :p :

Spain v Honduras should be interesting.

[UltimateDanGTR]

a portuguese 3 goals in 8 minutes killed north korea. after that they were easy for portugal, who will have a massive confidence boost now. still, I see brazil beating them, but portugal have at least started. I loved ronaldo's goal by the way, pure humurous genious.

revelation of the day: the goals per game average actually reached 2 today! (after portugal's third) it is now just above that. as I type, 67 goals have been scored in 32 games. (well, 31.6 games anyway)

[Rollo]

7-0!

Portugal vs. Brazil will be interesting but you'd have to put money on Portugal after that!

Kim Jong Il already reported it as 7-0 in the North Korean newspapers on Santo, Sam & Ed's Cup Fever. North Korea is going all the way to the final... er :D

http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad297/rollo75/kor7por0.jpg

[52Paddy]

And Spain has beaten Honduras 2-0. I only saw the first half but Villa scored a beaut.

[donKey jote]

bunch of donkeys threw away too many chances.
now for some chili : ody :

[ShiftingGears]

Another moronic red card. This is beyond a joke.

[Storm]

bunch of donkeys indeed..this is the worst I have seen Torres play. 2 clear cut chances and nothing while Villa showed that even if he is on the left side he still is the better striker. I like Torres but he looked very rusty and unfit. He just gave up running a few times and Navas played far too much with the ball than crossing it quickly. Llorente perhaps as a big centre forward against the Chileans with Torres to come off the bench? Ramos could have scored a couple too.

[Garry Walker]

Always lovely to see a communist nation get destroyed, it was very enjoyable to watch.

[Tazio]

bunch of donkeys threw away too many chances.
[b]now for some chili[/] : ody :
Speaking of Mexico In the first 5 minutes they have been peppered by Uruguay and should be down at least 1 really 2 imo

[Tazio]

Speaking of Mexico In the first 5 minutes they have been peppered by Uruguay and should be down at least 1 really 2 imo Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Goal Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooal
de Uruguay

[pino]

South Africa - France 2-0 :eek:

[Tazio]

South Africa - France 2-0 :eek: They still only have a slight chance to go through. But that's better than none!
France playing with 10!

"How are the mighty fallen" Samuel 1:19 :)

[UltimateDanGTR]

my god................I've witnessed france score at a finals of a major competition again....boo!

2-1 now. common south africa!

[Lee Roy]

Final - France loses. I guess they won't be getting a welcome home parade when they return home.

[pino]

EDrq1SM9f_o

[52Paddy]

Domenech is such a tw*t. I'm glad France are gone. A shame SA had to bite the bullet too but a good effort for a team that is far from strong.

[odykas]

Dear Players, Coach and Fans of Argentina,

I would like to let you know that I will support your national team in the game against Greece, with enthusiasm!

Go Argentina!

Best Regards,
Eki

[Josti]

Domenech made himself a laughing stock this tournament, even topping it after their final match with this behaviour.

[Tazio]

Domenech is such a tw*t. I'm glad France are gone. A shame SA had to bite the bullet too but a good effort for a team that is far from strong.Did I miss something?
Were France playing with 10 because an SA player was saying crude things about one of his star players sister, and mother, and responded by head-butting him in the solar-plexus?
Plus what did he have to say to him that took so long, and why did the SA coach stand attentively listening :confused:
If a poor sport doesn't want to shake my hand it only takes me about .75 seconds to say F$#% You, and walk away.

[odykas]

I have a feeling that besides France one more European giant is going to fall after the group stage...

Maybe you were referring to Greece :p

We will be back to kick some arse in Euro 2012 :o

[Eki]

I go south.

Go South Korea!!!

[pino]

Crucial day for both England and Germany...will they make it to the 1/8 finals, or we will have more suprises ? :p : I am happy for South Korea anyway :up:

[Valve Bounce]

Crucial day for both England and Germany...will they make it to the 1/8 finals, or we will have more suprises ? :p : I am happy for South Korea anyway :up:

I am even happier for North Korea. :D To make this a truly momentous occasion, their match against Portugal was the first World Cup match directly transmitted into the country and shown live.

There is a God!!

[pino]

I am even happier for North Korea. :D To make this a truly momentous occasion, their match against Portugal was the first World Cup match directly transmitted into the country and shown live.

There is a God!!

You will be more happy tomorrow when Italy will return home ;)

[Valve Bounce]

You will be more happy tomorrow when Italy will return home ;)

In many ways, it also makes me sad too :( . I go to Carlton each week with my wife and Benny to have coffee and cakes at Brunetti, http://www.brunetti.com.au/OurHistory.aspx
and everyone there loves Benny. Brunetti is at the centre of the Italian community in Melbourne.

[pino]

In many ways, it also makes me sad too :( . I go to Carlton each week with my wife and Benny to have coffee and cakes at Brunetti, http://www.brunetti.com.au/OurHistory.aspx
and everyone there loves Benny. Brunetti is at the centre of the Italian community in Melbourne.

You can't be/have both way, either you love or you hates them (Italians) :p :

[Valve Bounce]

You can't be/have both way, either you love or you hates them (Italians) :p :

Nearly the entire Italian Community turned up in Lygon Street for the previous World Cup game between Australia and Italy. After the game, many Italian fans said they were ashamed to have cheered for Italy and swore they are now Australians. I know Italians are very emotional, so make of that as you will.

Of course I love Italians, but I cannot support the team winning in that manner. Where's Roberto? :(

[odykas]

You will be more happy tomorrow when Italy will return home ;)

Italian team always struggles to qualify but always makes it to next round... this is tradition ;)
I don't see early return in my crystal ball :p :

Edit: Looks like an Italian coach will be travelling tomorrow http://www.alfisti.gr/forum/images/smilies/thinking.gif

[pino]

1st half and England leads, while Usa's been robbed again :crazy:

[Tazio]

1st half and England leads, while Usa's been robbed again :crazy:

Not to worry!
Valve proclaimed:

There is a God :dozey:

[odykas]

God forgives but ref does not forgive ;) :p :

[Rollo]

1st half and England leads, while Usa's been robbed again :crazy:

And in the 91st minute, Landon Donovan steals back the glory. If that isn't a show of drama, I don't know what is.

... And Zahia gobbing off at the referee... yeah, well.

[pino]

Both England and USA qualified with USA on top of the Group, what a great result for them ! :eek: :up:

[Brown, Jon Brow]

England had enough chances to win at least 4-0. They need to learn how to put their chances away if they are going to beat the best teams.

Well done to USA for winning the group. :up:

Now lets hope the Germans lose :p

[Tazio]

And in the 91st minute, Landon Donovan steals back the glory. If that isn't a show of drama, I don't know what is.

... And Zahia gobbing off at the referee... yeah, well.

Landon Donovan has bigger balls than "The Boss" ;)

[Brown, Jon Brow]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?

[pino]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?


No to mention all the chances they've had to score earlier in the match, I am so glad for them :D

[Tazio]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?This one

ix848GU0gNo&feature=related

[race aficionado]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?

Well, many others do so too - that's why watching pros doing what they do best is so much fun.

And watching the US win was a lot of fun!!!!

I love the World Cup.
:s mokin:

[Hondo]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?

American football
Basketball
Auto racing
Shuffleboard
Hockey
Spelling Bees
Checkers
Pong
ZZzzzzzzzzzz.....

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Basketball


:rotflmao:

[Hondo]

This one

ix848GU0gNo&feature=related


No Taz, Kirk Gibson, Dodgers 1988, injured, barely able to walk, coming off the bench to pinch hit the game winning homer. He barely made it around the bases.

[Josti]

I've just seen the USA game highlights and I don't see how any American can say football is boring. I winning goal in the last minute of the game! What other sport can produce a finale like that?

The most intence game I've seen so far in the World Cup, it was really exciting despite the lack of goals, and a great climax.

This is a great stimulance for football "soccer" in the US. Also glad England got through.

[pino]

Guys...let's go back to World Cup, thank you :)

[Tazio]

No Taz, Kirk Gibson, Dodgers 1988, injured, barely able to walk, coming off the bench to pinch hit the game winning homer. He barely made it around the bases.Gibson's was in game one. Mazeroski's was in the 9th inning of game 7 that nobody gave the Pirates a chance in hell to beat the Yankees.
Not even close (but a good one)

[Lee Roy]

Well done to USA for winning the group. :up:



Since England and the US had the same number of wins, draws and losses, as well as the same goal difference, what was it that determined the US as the winner of Group C?

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Since England and the US had the same number of wins, draws and losses, as well as the same goal difference, what was it that determined the US as the winner of Group C?

The USA scored more goals than England. (USA-4 goals, England-2 goals)

[Lee Roy]

Thank you.

[pino]

Go Ghana :D

[Tazio]

Go Ghana :D

Screw that! Bring on Brazil next :D

[veeten]

Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! :D

AUS 2 - 0 SRB

[Brown, Jon Brow]

I want Ghana to score so England wont get Germany in round 2 :(

[veeten]

but, why?... :p :

[Mark in Oshawa]

Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! :D

AUS 2 - 0 SRB

Gotta like THAT!!!!

[veeten]

AUS 2 - 1 SRB

shame they didn't make it, but a good showing nontheless. :)

[Brown, Jon Brow]

but, why?... :p :

Football is a simple game; 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans win :(

[veeten]

aww, c'mon JB. As the Rev. Jessie would say,... "Keep hope alive..."

[Eki]

Sorry for Australia, but it's nice that there's also an African team that got through. We already have teams from Europe, the Americas and Asia. Does New Zealand still have a chance, so that we could also get one from Oceania?

[odykas]

I have a feeling that Ghana didn't want to win this game http://www.alfisti.gr/forum/images/smilies/thinking.gif

[Daniel]

Football is a simple game; 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans win :(

The ME-109 will triumph over the Spitfire this time mein British friend :p

[Lee Roy]

I'm glad you Brits have the Germans. Ghana will be tough enough, but at least I feel like we have a chance.

[Eki]

Ja, but it's not mein kampf.

[Tazio]

I have a feeling that Ghana didn't want to win this game http://www.alfisti.gr/forum/images/smilies/thinking.gif

Seriously?
Than I guess Germany is a pretty weak team ;)

[AndyRAC]

England will probably play well on Sunday.............and go out!
Too much is made of passion and fight - football is won by skill and technique, something England don' t have a lot of.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

England will probably play well on Sunday.............and go out!
Too much is made of passion and fight - football is won by skill and technique, something England don' t have a lot of.

I agree that England are short on skill and technique, but I don't think Germany have more skill and better technique than England. Germany have a winning mentality.

I think England are better man-for-man than Germany and have been for the best part of a decade!

Per Mertesacker or John Terry?
Bastian Schweinsteiger or Steven Gerrard?
Miroslav Klose or Wayne Rooney?

But somehow in the past decade Germany have got to two major finals and England have never looked like getting past the quarters even if they manage to qualify.

[dunes]

Thats a pretty tough break for england, and for the US to advance as well.
Its starting to sound like story time to me. If ghana beats the US then I will believe its ok, however if the US wins I won't believe any part of it.

[Mark in Oshawa]

I read this quote on FB today :

The World Cup is like WW2. The Americans are late getting into it, The English are fighting the Germans alone, and the French have surrendered!

[Storm]

..Miroslav Klose or Wayne Rooney?

I know what you mean Jon in the man-to-man thing, but this has got to be a joke right?

Klose = 11 goals in 3 world cups. golden boot winner
Rooney = 0 goals in 2 world cups.

Yes Rooney is really good and a better player but on past records AND current form, I will still take Klose if my life depended on it or if I wanted a goal in a crunch situation.

USA - I sort of like this team (even though its a bit workmanlike) and they got a deserved top spot - which should have been easy really - a stupid ref call which disallowed a goal against Slovenia and even last night a Dempsey goal for offside :crazy:

well done Yanks.

England v Germany will be fun!

[pino]

Rooney has been the biggest flop so far so unless he finds his form again, it's going to be very difficult for England to survive. As for today...stupid Lippi has changed 4 men, so we might go ahead but I am still pessimistic for our future in the Tournement...not enough class-players in the squad :(

I also hope Denmark will reach the 1/8 finals...can't wait for the action :D

[Daniel]

Storm, you also forgot that Rooneys head looks like a potato.

[pino]

Daniel...what Team are you supporting ?

[Daniel]

Anyone but England :p Except perhaps Italy :p

[Eki]

I read this quote on FB today :

The World Cup is like WW2. The Americans are late getting into it, The English are fighting the Germans alone, and the French have surrendered!
And everyone has forgotten Finland and Russia.

[Valve Bounce]

I read this quote on FB today :

The World Cup is like WW2. The Americans are late getting into it, The English are fighting the Germans alone, and the French have surrendered!

:P :D :rotflmao:

[Storm]

Russia must be kicking themselves for not being able to beat Slovenia in the play-offs...as for Finland :s

pino, atleast Di Natale will start today, lets see if he can do any better.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

I know what you mean Jon in the man-to-man thing, but this has got to be a joke right?

Klose = 11 goals in 3 world cups. golden boot winner
Rooney = 0 goals in 2 world cups.

Yes Rooney is really good and a better player but on past records AND current form, I will still take Klose if my life depended on it or if I wanted a goal in a crunch situation.



I'd still prefer Rooney in my team any day than Klose.

Your statistics are very unfair. You have to remember that Rooney only played 2 games in 2006 World Cup and he was unfit in both of them.

Rooney scored far more goals than Klose for his club this season and goals aren't all that Rooney offers. He is much more of a team player, and when he is at his best he would get into any team in the world.

[Lousada]

I agree that England are short on skill and technique, but I don't think Germany have more skill and better technique than England. Germany have a winning mentality.

I think England are better man-for-man than Germany and have been for the best part of a decade!


Come on dude, you are joking here right? Yes England has Rooney, Lampard, Gerrard and Terry. But they also have Heskey, G.Johnson, Upson, Milner and a bunch of clown keepers. England has 4/5 worldclass players and 18 sheit players, Germany has no worldclass players but 23 very good players. If one of Englands stars fails, the whole squad goes down. If one of the Germans fails they just get another of near equal level. That is why Germany succeeds and England never does.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Come on dude, you are joking here right? Yes England has Rooney, Lampard, Gerrard and Terry. But they also have Heskey, G.Johnson, Upson, Milner and a bunch of clown keepers. England has 4/5 worldclass players and 18 sheit players, Germany has no worldclass players but 23 very good players. If one of Englands stars fails, the whole squad goes down. If one of the Germans fails they just get another of near equal level. That is why Germany succeeds and England never does.

http://board.muse.mu/images/smilies/noey.gif

Milner and Johnson are very good players. And Carragher, Joe Cole, Ashley Cole and Defoe are too.

Maybe you have hit the nail on the head. Apart from the injured Ballack, Germany have no star players so the whole team plays together as a team. England rarely play as a team.

[Daniel]

Didn't I say something like this earlier in this thread Jon. England aren't a team, they're a bunch of players.

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Didn't I say something like this earlier in this thread Jon. England aren't a team, they're a bunch of players.

:up:

Another reason why the Germans do well without star-players might be because the German league has fewer teams and plays fewer matches. Their players are still quite fresh while England look very tired.

I remember Germany having world class players in the 1990's. Klinsmann, Moller, Sammer, Matthäus etc

[Tazio]

I read this quote on FB today :

The World Cup is like WW2. The Americans are late getting into it, The English are fighting the Germans alone, and the French have surrendered! And with that logic it woud be fair to assume that France beat Ireland because Ireland were too much of cowards to play them! :confused: :laugh:

[pino]

pino, atleast Di Natale will start today, lets see if he can do any better.


For what I know Italy will play with Pepe, Pazzini and Quagliarella in the front, and Gattuso replacing useless Marchisio in the midfield. Lippi's too stupid to play Di Natale from the beginning :p :

[Brown, Jon Brow]

For what I know Italy will play with Pepe, Pazzini and Quagliarella in the front, and Gattuso replacing useless Marchisio in the midfield. Lippi's too stupid to play Di Natale from the beginning :p :

A World Cup winning manager and you call him stupid!

You wouldn't believe what England fans would do to have Alf Ramsey back! :p

[pino]

A World Cup winning manager and you call him stupid!

You wouldn't believe what England fans would do to have Alf Ramsey back! :p

You would do the same if you knew all the good players he left home for personal reasons. So glad Prandelli will replace him after World Cup :up: And winning a World Cup don't mean you're top coach, especially when you do that with a team like Italy :p :

[odykas]

For what I know Italy will play with Pepe, Pazzini and Quagliarella in the front, and Gattuso replacing useless Marchisio in the midfield. Lippi's too stupid to play Di Natale from the beginning :p :

Zilardino out!
That's a major improvement! http://www.softlab.ntua.gr/%7Esiochos/smilies/bowdown.gif

[Storm]

I'd still prefer Rooney in my team any day than Klose.

Your statistics are very unfair. You have to remember that Rooney only played 2 games in 2006 World Cup and he was unfit in both of them.

Rooney scored far more goals than Klose for his club this season and goals aren't all that Rooney offers. He is much more of a team player, and when he is at his best he would get into any team in the world.

I know stats aren't the best way to compare but in this case I meant to show that Klose knows how to score goals in a Germany shirt (in a world cup) and has done it in the past and even in this tournament. Rooney has done neither. 2 matches in 06 you say? what about the 3rd when he was sent off? Klose got sent off too before you point that out but that was just the ref being silly.


As for German clubs playing less games overall is true, but most of the Bayern players (quite a few in the German squad) played their last game of the season after most of the English squad had finished their season ;)

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Goal for Slovakia! :eek:

[Tazio]

Slovakia has one finger up Italy's @$$ :eek:

[Brown, Jon Brow]

Bye bye Italy! :wave:

[Brown, Jon Brow]

This is going to be tense now. 2-1.

[ShiftingGears]

3-1!

[Brown, Jon Brow]

3-2! It's not over yet for Italy!

[Brown, Jon Brow]

It's over for Italy!

Slovakia 3 - 2 Italy in an incredible game!

Sorry Pino!

[ShiftingGears]

Italy is out of the world cup!

[Tazio]

I thought the US Algeria game was close :crazy:
BTW Italy was eliminated the old fashion way!
They earned it!! :dozey:

[Josti]

I can't believe Italy didn't start the game like they played in the last 15 minutes. They can only blame themselves.

[UltimateDanGTR]

england were pretty darn good yesterday..fantastic news. bring on the mighty germans!

I still think Italy have a chance :D
another european giant falls. thinking about it, the netherlands are the only european team so far who havn't had a wobbly match. (they're saving that till round 2 as usual :D )

this world cup started as poor with dull football. Now it is exciting and unpredictable, anything can happen. like 2002 all over again.............

[pino]

Well done Slovakia :up: Italy didn't deserve to be in 1/8 finals, nothing more to add really...

[Alexamateo]

Have you guys checked this out.
I love it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idLG6jh23yE&feature=player_embedded


:s mokin:

I think this commercial is cursed! :p

Look at everyone featured in it:

Drogba, breaks arm, and Ivory Coast is out unless they score 8 goals or so.
Cannavaro and Italy, out
Rooney, not out but playing like you know....
Ribery and France, out
Ronaldinho, didn't even make squad

Therefore I am predicting catastrophe for Ronaldo and Portugal :p :D ;)

[52Paddy]

Netherlands v New Zealand soon :)

[Tazio]

I think this commercial is cursed! :p

Look at everyone featured in it:

Drogba, breaks arm, and Ivory Coast is out unless they score 8 goals or so.
Cannavaro and Italy, out
Rooney, not out but playing like you know....
Ribery and France, out
Ronaldinho, didn't even make squad

Therefore I am predicting catastrophe for Ronaldo and Portugal :p :D ;)

+1

+2 People (like me) need to check themselves before they post. The affect of bashing is magnified x 10, I now know why hospitals fill up with people that have either tried to commit suicide, or have had a nervous breakdown over this event. And the media hype is actually making it much worse. So try not to get hypertense over it! :)

[Brown, Jon Brow]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs017.ash2/34211_437611248486_632308486_5792505_7965210_n.jpg

[52Paddy]

Netherlands v New Zealand soon :)

Cameroon in fact :dozey:

Japan 2-0 Denmark already!

[52Paddy]

I'm rooting for Denmark in this game but something special will have to happen if they want to get through. Their defence is awful.

[Mark in Oshawa]

Pino, my sympathies to your Azzuri not moving on. A friend of mine of Italian extraction put it to me in terms I understood: The Azzuri if they were a hockey team would be playing the "trap". It makes for dull football and if they get behind they don't know how to turn up the offense without being vulnerable.

Also the Slovaks played to win, while the Italians I think were playing to tie until they got desparate.

AS for the English? I cheer for them every World Cup, and they keep finding excuses while putting some great talent on the field. No...I am backing the Dutch I think now that we are firming up the final 16. I would love the Netherlands to finally take it all. Year after year they put some of the best players on pitches around the world, and yet they have never got over the hump. Maybe with all the upsets, bad referees and injuries, they will make the final and find a way to win...

[Rollo]

New Zealand finished ahead of Italy in Group F. Maybe Italy needs to play with teams of its own level... like Vanuatu or Niue. I think that they might struggle against quality sides like the Solomon Islands though... maybe even against Easter Island.

[52Paddy]

And Denmark are out. Japan go through. Very disappointed with Denmark's showing this evening. A mix of lethargic form in Japan's box, awful keeping from Sorensen and passes which lacked any enthusiasm. Denmark, I'm sad to see you drop out, but Japan beat you hand over fist. :up:

[race aficionado]

Well done Slovakia :up: Italy didn't deserve to be in 1/8 finals, nothing more to add really...

Amigo Pino.
knowing you, you will continue to enjoy the World Cup and enjoy the teams that are playing good soccer - and some of them definitely are.

My wife and I are having a ball watching all the games and making good use of our DVR recorder.
:s mokin:

[Valve Bounce]

Amigo Pino.
knowing you, you will continue to enjoy the World Cup and enjoy the teams that are playing good soccer - and some of them definitely are.

My wife and I are having a ball watching all the games and making good use of our DVR recorder.
:s mokin:

What are you using to minimise the noise from the vuvuzelas?

[pino]

Amigo Pino.
knowing you, you will continue to enjoy the World Cup and enjoy the teams that are playing good soccer - and some of them definitely are.

My wife and I are having a ball watching all the games and making good use of our DVR recorder.
:s mokin:

Offcourse dear race, Italy or not I will still enjoy (along with my son) the World Cup, and I am waiting for more surprises today ;) Now without Italy and Denmark, my support goes to Ghana and Japan who really impressed me yesterday :up:

[pino]

What are you using to minimise the noise from the vuvuzelas?

Andrea Bocelli ;)

[Storm]

I have sometimes tried to hear the TV on surround sound mode and that does seem to bring the crowd noise than the vuvus..try it Valve.

pino, my sympathies, you know I have followed the Azzurris right from Italia 90! They always make it hard for themselves in the group stage but seem to pull out, sadly this is the most impotent Italy side I have seen with no magic/skill to make a goal near the end. Lippi made some poor choices for the squad and also in his tactics and although they were a bit unlucky(offside goal and Skrtel clearance which looked behind the line to me), eventually they just did not score enough goals in 3 matches to deserve a place in round 2. Cannavaro was finished as a player 2 years ago and you could see by some of the poor/lethargic defending on show. Camoranesi, Marchisio, Iaquinta, Zambrotta aren't good enough.

I actually like the Kiwis in general, but happy that they are not going to round 2, yes they have put on brave defensive performances much above their skill/rankings but I do not want to see a 0-0 AET game in round2.

[pino]

pino, my sympathies, you know I have followed the Azzurris right from Italia 90! They always make it hard for themselves in the group stage but seem to pull out, sadly this is the most impotent Italy side I have seen with no magic/skill to make a goal near the end. Lippi made some poor choices for the squad and also in his tactics and although they were a bit unlucky(offside goal and Skrtel clearance which looked behind the line to me), eventually they just did not score enough goals in 3 matches to deserve a place in round 2. Cannavaro was finished as a player 2 years ago and you could see by some of the poor/lethargic defending on show. Camoranesi, Marchisio, Iaquinta, Zambrotta aren't good enough.



Storm thanks mate :up: but I am not surprised or even sad, and I was ready for this as posted many times in here. So it's time to move on now with a new coach and a new squad who can bring Italy on top again ;)