World Cup....! [Archive]

ElectraGlide

06-13-2006, 07:45 PM

There aren't many sports I can stand watching on TV but I think soccer may just turn out to be one of them. It's fast paced and violent.
What channel(s) is/are showing the matches?
I agree about the fast pacing and the violence. I don't know how anyone can think it's boring to watch. I hear people complain that all they do is run up and down the field and it's not exciting. What the hell do basketball players do?

Most of the matches are on ESPN and ESPN2, with a few on ABC. This website lists the TV schedule:

http://www.soccertv.com/wc-us.cfm

Firecat

06-13-2006, 08:19 PM

Not all matches are that exciting. It depends who's playing.

I was disappointed with the France - Switzerland result. Especially considering the brilliant players the French have. I have similar feeling for the Brazil - Croatia match. Of course, just watching the Brazillians is poetry in motion.

The only match i'll watch tomorrow is Spain vs. Ukraine. I have a feeling that Spain will win the cup this year....of course, people probably will disagree because the side generally comes in strong but doesn't live up to standards. We'll know more tomorrow I guess.

ElectraGlide

06-14-2006, 07:35 AM

Not all matches are that exciting. It depends who's playing.

I guess I could qualify my previous post. In my opinion, blah blah blah the rest of my post.

Firecat

06-14-2006, 08:06 AM

lol....right. So, i've recorded the spain vs. ukraine match. I plan on watching it when I get home in a few hours.

So, i'm at work and these 2 dudes come in. They ask me which african team is playing, I couldn't remember. But I told them the others that are playing. The one guy says they watched the spain match, and I immediately said "don't tell me anything, i'm going to watch it later"......after that, the person told me that it was a horrible match, and if you're a Spain supporter you will be disappointed...i was like "What the f, stop talkin' dude"....and when the person left he was like, if you like spain it was exciting or something....I dunno.

HoneyBunny

06-14-2006, 12:19 PM

Firecat -
I am not a soccer follower - but I did hear something about the German press and David Beckham and was wondering if you know anything about it. I trust you way more than the media...

hb

Firecat

06-14-2006, 03:04 PM

I don't know any details, but I think it had something to do with what was printed in a tabloid/paper.

Spain played a fantastic match today, most exciting game yet. Before the cup started I had them as my favorites to win...They beat Ukraine 4-0

zoobabe

06-14-2006, 07:38 PM

I had an offer from an English guy (and HUGE team England fan) to attend a soiree on Sat. night that's all about celebrating Brits in the DFW area. They can bring an American guest. Should I talk about how much better American football is?:rolleyes:

Firecat

06-15-2006, 08:11 AM

Well, i'm hoping that Trinidad defeats England this afternoon.....because I really don't like that team. So if you were to tell the England fans there what I think, they'll be breakin' bottles over your head all night long.

Congrats to Germany and Ecuador for Advancing to the second round, bye bye to Costa Rica and Poland.

doctorsnark

06-15-2006, 09:43 AM

england is looking pretty lame right about now. is it wrong to be rooting for trinidad and tobago, just so i can root against england?

now, if japan can beat croatia, and croatia beats australia, and then brazil ties japan... ah, who am i kidding?)

go portugal!

Firecat

06-15-2006, 10:29 AM

lol....I recorded the match, was just about to watch it...but then I saw a headline on yahoo's front page. Dammit!

doctorsnark

06-15-2006, 02:09 PM

lol....I recorded the match, was just about to watch it...but then I saw a headline on yahoo's front page. Dammit!

yeah, yahoo screwed me over a couple of times during this past season of american idol... i would still be at work (after the east coast watched it), and yahoo would splash the eliminated contestant all over its front page...

but really, that hardly compares to world cup spoilage!

(i won't even mention the results of sweden-paraguay...)

Firecat

06-16-2006, 08:25 AM

wow....great football from Argentina.

EdHill

06-16-2006, 08:47 AM

off to a mexican place today to watch Mexico, tomorrow we got Italy and US and sunday Brazil. Busy weekend...

Beckham is so hot!!!

Firecat

06-16-2006, 11:56 AM

Mexican place?!? What, you couldn't find an Angolan place?

Firecat

06-17-2006, 10:01 AM

Wow...Ghana just pounded the Czechs 2-nil, plus they missed a penatly and forced the Czech keeper to make some amazing saves. They've ripped open the group, and saved the USA.

Ness

06-17-2006, 11:01 AM

That was a good game, and i'm usually not into sports.

Firecat

06-17-2006, 01:06 PM

I'll give the Americans credit for playing a good game with only 9 men. The Italians played like sh!t. Hopefully thursday the Italians will beat the Czechs, and Ghana will beat the US. I want those teams to advance from this group.

Firecat

06-18-2006, 01:21 PM

I'm disappointed with Brazil and France. I can't believe Zidane will miss the next match, bad call by the ref. Also, that one ball was behind the line...should have been a goal for France.

doctorsnark

06-18-2006, 01:47 PM

Also, that one ball was behind the line...should have been a goal for France.

i agree. this cup has been dominated by bad officiating. first the usa game, now this. and if you want to talk about dissapointing, look no further than japan. ugh.

Ness

06-18-2006, 05:55 PM

I'm disappointed with Brazil and France.

This is the first time I am actually sitting down to enjoy any sport, and I am really enjoying the World Cup and Playoffs. Now after all that crap I heard about Brazil I expected better, same goes for France.

Doctorsnark - sorry about your team, I would go for Japan but any team I go for usually end up losing, so I guess I have to go for whatever team is playing against Japan.:p I should change my name to Jinx.:o

zoobabe

06-18-2006, 07:12 PM

well- I went to the English party and just happened to win a HUGE gift basket full of team England stuff! Leave it to the American girl to win their coveted prize. I gave most of it to him, but I kept a shirt and hat so I'll wear my team England shirt tomorrow.

Firecat

06-18-2006, 07:15 PM

This is the first time I am actually sitting down to enjoy any sport, and I am really enjoying the World Cup and Playoffs. Now after all that crap I heard about Brazil I expected better, same goes for France.

I'm sure Brazil will pick up their game in the later stages. Right now, focus on Spain and Argentina. Spain will be playing Tunisia tomorrow at 2:55pm. It should be a great match. I'll be wearing my Spain shirt as well :cool:

Firecat

06-18-2006, 07:16 PM

Doctorsnark - sorry about your team, I would go for Japan but any team I go for usually end up losing, so I guess I have to go for whatever team is playing against Japan.:p I should change my name to Jinx.:o

Well, Japan will play Brazil next.

doctorsnark

06-18-2006, 07:45 PM

Well, Japan will play Brazil next.

yeah, even with your jinx/help, ness, i'm not sure japan has much of a chance...

firecat- i think you should add portugal to your list of teams to watch. spain, argentina, and portugal. first cup since '66, after all.

but even so, right now, my money's on spain to take the whole thing.

Firecat

06-18-2006, 09:02 PM

Portugal has played well. They will likely go far. So yeah, Spain, Portugal and Argentina are doing awesome. Germany and England have won their games, but not that convincingly.

I hope Brazil, Italy, and France start playing better. When they are at their best, it's just a privilege to watch them.

I'm looking forward to Ghana beating the USA on thursday :D
Argentina has a tough match against the Netherlands on wednesday, but I think they will do fine.

Anyway, must focus on Spain for tomorrow!

StreetHassle

06-19-2006, 06:59 AM

Switzerland beat Togo 2-0 today. I'm actually really sad seeing as the referees screwed Togo hardcore in the first half.

Firecat

06-19-2006, 07:31 AM

I missed the first half, and haven't seen any highlights yet. I'm at work watching a live stream of ESPN, they were talking about how FIFA is pleased with the refs so far....

Technology has come a long way, I don't see why the refs can't defer to another ref that can watch a replay.

Firecat

06-19-2006, 12:59 PM

Spain Vs. Tunisia...Very good game, very tense. I was watching with a few Moroccans, who were kinda pissed at the final result. I wore my Spain shirt proudly LOL.

doctorsnark

06-19-2006, 05:54 PM

awesome match between spain and tunisia... spain started shaky, but raised their level of play toward the end. some amazing shots on goal... and tunisia's keeper should be recognized for withstanding the onslaught as long as he did!

seriously considering coming down with some mysterious illness so i can miss work on thursday...

Firecat

06-19-2006, 06:22 PM

LOL...Thursday is gonna be awesome. As long as the Italians perform how they should, and Ghana plays how they did in their last match.

I think Spain started out too confident, and that early goal by the Tunisians really lit a fire under their @sses. From that point they were relentless in their attacks on goal, I knew that at some point a few would have to go through. Raul is one of my favorite players, and I'm glad he got a goal today.

Let's see...tomorrow should be interesting as well..

Germany Vs. Ecuador. Not sure who I like of the two.
England Vs. Sweden. I hope Sweden win.

It's going to be interesting how England change their plan based on the Germany/Ecuador game. Because they will be playing one of them in the next round.

zoobabe

06-19-2006, 07:44 PM

England Vs. Sweden. I hope Sweden win.

It's going to be interesting how England change their plan based on the Germany/Ecuador game. Because they will be playing one of them in the next round.

I'm going to the pub to watch the England game with the Brits. I'll have to wear my Team England 66 shirt again.

Firecat

06-19-2006, 09:45 PM

If Ecuador beats Germany, I wouldn't be surprised if England throws their match so they can play Ecuador in the next round (As opposed to playing Germany). Just my 2 cents...lol

TinkerbellAPixie

06-20-2006, 03:12 AM

I have to root for anyone who plays against Brazil. I stayed in a hotel a few years back that was packed full of Brazil fans during world cup time. My entire stay was ruined by chants of OLE OLE OLE OLE...Brazil - Brazil! Morning, noon and night. Yellow shirts and chanting everywhere.

I think that year Brazil was up against France so we took to singing - Viva La France! Viva La France! Just to be bratty.

Now in honor of my boyfriend - GO England! And EdHill is right - Beckham IS a hottie! Then again - most of the English team players are pretty darned cute.

zoobabe

06-20-2006, 05:45 AM

I think that year Brazil was up against France so we took to singing - Viva La France! Viva La France! Just to be bratty.

I'd think that could be dangerous Tink. Like being in a Steelers bar yelling "Go Browns". Although that's a stretch b/c we always trounce the Browns.:D

Firecat

06-20-2006, 06:26 AM

The Brazilians fans are awesome. In '98 they played France in the World Cup finals and lost pretty badly, was that the game?

I really dislike the England team, I hope they lose. :D

zoobabe

06-20-2006, 06:30 AM

Why do you dislike the England team FC? Granted- I don't really care about who wins the World Cup, but I'll root for the team that has fans that are paying for my food and drinks.:D As long as it's not English pub grub, which is gross.

Firecat

06-20-2006, 06:58 AM

I can't really say why exactly, they just bother me. Partly because they are overrated, and partly because I like to see pissed off English fans LOL

I'm not sure how they are playing now, but when I used to watch their matches I found them very boring. They played safe and were too technical.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-20-2006, 07:33 AM

The Brazilians fans are awesome. In '98 they played France in the World Cup finals and lost pretty badly, was that the game?

I really dislike the England team, I hope they lose. :D

Yup - that was it. Go England! Down with Brazil! :p

Firecat

06-20-2006, 01:48 PM

I couldn't watch the entire England / Sweden match. But based on the last 30 minutes, it was very tense. I'm happy with the result, although I had hoped the Swedes would have won.

zoobabe

06-20-2006, 02:37 PM

oh FC- that's bullshit!!! England should have won, they just had a bad play by their goalie in the LAST MINUTE of the game that led to a tie. I will say that the fans I was with were a lot less vocal than I expected. I was screaming more than they were and I'm only a fan by association!

J-Unit

06-20-2006, 03:04 PM

England really bollocksed it up today. Should be a good weekend though.

Ness

06-20-2006, 04:54 PM

Well I was going for England in this game. That last point they let the other team get was crap. Two people in front of the goal post and it still went in, WTF.
Oh well, it's not like i want them to win the world cup, i don't have a favorite team yet. I was only cheering for england to piss my brothers off.

Firecat

06-20-2006, 05:16 PM

I'm actually a little pissed off that Italy/Czech and USA/Ghana are on at the same time Thursday. I have no idea which one to watch.

But looking at tomorrows matches, Argentina Vs. Netherlands should be awesome. Portugal Vs. Mexico should be interesting as well. And I think if Angola beats Iran, they could advance ahead of Mexico.

Mulv

06-20-2006, 10:14 PM

I'm rooting for the USA. There, I said it! I know American soccer (football, whatever) is just beginning to get good and that they probably won't make it much farther but, goddamnit, we (or maybe it's just me) need something to cheer about in this country these days. If it has to be soccer, then so be it.

That being said, I'd also be happy if England won, although I've heard they've been playing like shite.

Firecat

06-20-2006, 10:25 PM

lol....well, I hope Ghana crushes them! I think i'll put off watching the Italians just so I can watch the Ghana/USA match. It's a tough decision though, but that Italians have been playing poorly.

England has been playing okay. I don't think they'll go too far though, hopefully Ecuador will beat them in the next round. I feel bad for Owen who got injured in the first few minutes, that's a setback for England.

I'm really psyched for Argentina tomorrow (Wednesday). :cool:
Gotta love Crespo....

roob

06-21-2006, 12:01 PM

"I hope Brazil, Italy, and France start playing better. When they are at their best, it's just a privilege to watch them." - Firecat

I know you posted this a couple of days ago, but please. It's not a privilege to watch Italy dive and whine for calls for an entire match. It took me about the first 5 minutes of their first match to remember why I hated watching them so much. When they stay on their feet and play the game, they're good. Unfortunately, they rarely do that.

And it's not just because they were playing the U.S. They were the same against Ghana, the same as they always are.

During my game last Sunday, it was a running joke every time someone went down or bitched at the ref for a call. "What, do you play for Italy?"

I would agree that it is a privilege to watch Brazil, or Argentina. England - unimaginative and lucky to have gotten through. Portugal looks good. I still need Spain to convince me. Germany looks stonger and stronger - they'll wipe out Sweden.

roob

06-21-2006, 12:12 PM

I always like to get out of the gate with a misspelled word. Especially in the title. Good times!

J-Unit

06-21-2006, 12:12 PM

Mulv,

I am rooting for the home team as well. Unfortunately, they are playing completely uninspired. While 1998 will always be an embarassement, this is nearly as bad. We have had only one shot on goal the entire tournament. We barely have enough skill to be called offisdes. Considering the talent and the experience on this team, those stats are a complete joke. The game vs. Italy was a good effort, but I think we are kidding ourselves if we think that performance against Italy means we'll turn the corner against a very good Ghana team.

roob,

Have to agree about the Italians.

Other than that, I think Argentina has been the most talented. Brazil has underwhlemed (not as badly as France and England), and I think Spain has been the surprise.

Mulv

06-21-2006, 12:53 PM

Mulv, I am rooting for the home team as well. Unfortunately, they are playing completely uninspired. While 1998 will always be an embarassement, this is nearly as bad. We have had only one shot on goal the entire tournament. We barely have enough skill to be called offisdes. Considering the talent and the experience on this team, those stats are a complete joke. The game vs. Italy was a good effort, but I think we are kidding ourselves if we think that performance against Italy means we'll turn the corner against a very good Ghana team.

C'mon J-Unit, you can't let a little thing like sucky playing get in the way of blind devotion. Can you tell I was raised in a Red Sox family?

And to whoever said it (roob or Firecat, I think) I agree that watching the Brazilians or Argentinians play is amazing. God, they're just so damn graceful. How do they do it?

Firecat

06-21-2006, 01:46 PM

Regarding the Italians. When I talk about how they play, I refer specifically to skills on the ball. When they are on, they play with a passion that only Brazil can surpass.

Argentina and Spain have been the most fun for me, partly because I have Spain to take the tournament. Spain had me a little worried in their last match, but they bounced back. Argentina had me worried today, but they came through alright (I was upset that Crespo didn't play, but I can understand why)

Not sure how many people here watch the Spanish and Italian leagues....

At this point, Ghana has been playing much better than the US (and the Italians as well)...they will be tough to beat. Tomorrow will be a good day of football (Italy/Czech. Ghana/US. Brazil/Japan)

roob

06-21-2006, 02:03 PM

Agree that they have great skill on the ball, when they stay upright. It's just so rare that they actually do. I was waiting the entire US game to see if one of them earned a card for a dive, like the Mexico player did today.

That's why I tend to admire teams with skill and a (relatively) low propensity for diving/whining. Like Brazil or Argentina, or even Germany.

Italy is like a more skilled version of Mexico (without the cheap shots).

Firecat

06-21-2006, 02:52 PM

It's a part of football that I really don't like. All the rolling on the floor and acting, ugh. Which is why you can't always blame the refs, if the players were honest...it wouldn't be an issue.

Check out these videos...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGlXKDJnEiY&search=football%20dives

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuN09NLwNu8&search=football%20fake

roob

06-21-2006, 03:36 PM

Seeing videos like that make it easy to understand why the game hasn't caught on in the US. Most people in this country were raised on American football, where honest injuries happen all the time (I wouldn't mind seeing that keeper get the Theismann treatment, if you know what I mean).

When soccer is played the right way, it's a beautiful game to watch. But it's hard for a newbie to "get it" when they see crap like that happen, and it affects the outcome of games.

Firecat

06-22-2006, 08:30 AM

I'm happy with the results today. I watched 15 or 20 minutes of the USA game, then switched to the Italians.

Ghana plays Brazil next. Oh Boy.

And of course, Brazil plays Japan this afternoon

roob

06-22-2006, 08:53 AM

But they didn't get any help - there isn't anyone who can convince me that penalty should have been called - in injury time! That's a basic rule of reffing - if you are screened off of the play, you can't make the call.

That being said, the US played with very little creativity or energy, and deserved to lose.

I only caught the Italy-Czech game on a second TV out of the corner of my eye, so I can't comment. Seemed like every time I looked over, though, an Italian player was writhing around on the ground in pain!:D

J-Unit

06-22-2006, 09:17 AM

The penalty kick was a bad call, and took away a lot of momentum, but the first problem was that clear. If that ball was kicked out of bounds, there is no controversy.

The second problem was that the US had to win. Maybe you don't start Eddie Johnson, but if you are down 2-1 and need a boost, why not bring him in at the start of the second half?

I think Arena was a huge idiot this world cup, and he deserves whatever is coming to him.

Congrats to team Ghana. A lot of spirited teams from Africa this year, good to see that one was able to advance, especially in such a difficult group.

Waiting for Brazil to put on a show later today!

roob

06-22-2006, 10:56 AM

True enough about the clear. In fact, both goals were caused by indefensible lapses in the back - how does Reyna hold on to that ball with no support behind him?

And the fact that Arena played it conservative at the beginning of a must-win game means that he has to go. He's done. You have to go in with an offensive mindset in a game like this, even if you are looking to counter. Which would have been a good strategy, assuming he had the right bodies in there to actually execute the counter attack. Which he didn't. They should have started Johnson up front at the expense of Lewis, and pushed Beasley out to the left where Lewis was.

J-Unit

06-22-2006, 12:32 PM

Brazil is putting on a show as I hoped.

roob,

As soon as I saw that they were in the 4-5-1, I had a bad feeling about the game. Like you said, not aggressive enough in a game that you need to win. That mindset trickles down through the whole team. How about having confidence in your players and going for the win? The worst thing that can happen is a loss. Would rather have lost because we had 3 people up front trying to score instead of the shit we did today.

roob

06-22-2006, 01:14 PM

Exactly, J-Unit. Couldn't agree more.

Plenty of teams to root for still remaining in the cup, though. And now I'm freed from the shackles of rooting for one specific team.

I'm rooting for Germany (lived there for three years) and Argentina. And I'd like to see Brazil play like Brazil - sounds like they may be doing that right now. I'm kind of intrigued by Portugal, too.

Firecat

06-22-2006, 01:46 PM

Spain is still my #1 pick, then Argentina. I still love Brazil & Italy though. If France qualifies, i'll support them as well (just because of Zidane).

Brazil picked up their game, finally! It took a goal from Japan to get them moving. Italy played better as well. Today turned out to be an awesome day of football.

Not that I have any basis for my next comment, but I feel that Ghana will be able to put up a better challenge against Brazil than the USA could have.

J-Unit

06-22-2006, 02:21 PM

I think Argentina has looked the best, very relaxed. Germany, which has handled the pressure well and I think will at least make it back to the semis. FC, I think Spain is looking like they aren't scared to lose, which makes for a strong side. Only two more weeks!

Firecat

06-22-2006, 07:36 PM

Spain is now like 23 games undefeated (several draws though). It's like one of the longest streaks ever. I just hope they don't underestimate any of their opponents.

Australia made it through today, I heard from some friends that the streets of Melbourne were in chaos. They are having a very good World Cup (as well as Ghana). Definitely the surprises of the tournament.

Spain Vs. Ukraine tomorrow morning and Togo Vs. France in the afternoon. Those are the matches i'll be watching.

Stage 2 (so far)
Germany Vs. Sweden (Saturday)
Argentina Vs. Mexico (Saturday)

I'd like to see Germany and Argentina progress.

England Vs. Ecuador (Sunday)
Portugal Vs. Holland (Sunday)

I'd like to see Ecuador move on. I don't have a fave for the second match

Italy Vs. Australia (Monday)
2nd Match TBD (Monday)

I'd like to see Italy move on. Lots of possibilities for the second match

Brazil Vs. Ghana (Tuesday)
2nd Match TBD (Tuesday)

Of course I love Brazil, although I wouldn't mind Ghana moving on. The second match will likely be Spain Vs. Switzerland, Korea, or France. Go Spain!!!

Firecat

06-23-2006, 07:56 AM

Alright, Spain and Ukraine move onto the next round.

Spain defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0. Spain played a good first half, but was very lazy in the second half. It's odd because they didn't play their usual starters and gave other players an opportunity.....so i'm suprised they didn't try harder to impress.

roob

06-23-2006, 09:01 AM

This morning was the first extended look I got at Spain, and even if they had an entirely new starting lineup, they were impressive! Only caught the first half, though, so I can't comment on what happened in the second...they sure generated a lot of chances in the first, and they were really clever and calm in the box.

Can't wait for the elimination round to start tomorrow.

Firecat

06-23-2006, 10:59 AM

lol....I can't believe out of all the matches featuring Spain, this is the one you watch.

They did have a good first half, minus about 5 of their usual starters (upfront and midfield). They have a lot of depth, so they can still put on quite a show.

Be glad you didn't watch the second half, they were giving up the ball in their own penalty box. And when the got the ball forward into the Saudi box, nobody attacked the ball.

That said, I'm still confident they will pass the second round and will likely meet Brazil in the quarter finals.

Firecat

06-23-2006, 01:00 PM

Alright....

Spain Vs. France
Switzerland Vs. Ukraine

I love Zidane, and I want France to do well. But Spain is my team this year

And I was just watching ESPN, they said (regarding the Spain/Saudi match) that it was the first time a team changed all 11 players. lol

TinkerbellAPixie

06-24-2006, 08:46 AM

Germany playing Sweden now and it looks like the Swedish team didn't even show up. Germany is running circles around them.

Firecat

06-24-2006, 09:16 AM

Indeed, I can't believe Larsson missed that PK

The only thing that will stop this German blitzkrieg are the Argentinians. I'm confident they will take out Mexico today. Crespo!

J-Unit

06-24-2006, 10:48 AM

Germany looked great today. Even if Larsson made that PK, Germany was strong on the attack. That is what an aggressive team looks like!

As an aside:

http://www.minimalsworld.net/BrazilName/brazilian.shtml

Your Brazilian football name generator:

J-Unit - Unegra. Has a nice ring to it.

Firecat

06-24-2006, 11:54 AM

My real name comes to "Gardeinho"

Argentina and Mexico are tied....C'mon Argentina!

Firecat

06-24-2006, 01:39 PM

wow, what an amazing goal! Mexico played very well, but now it will be Germany Vs. Argentina.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-24-2006, 06:22 PM

http://www.minimalsworld.net/BrazilName/brazilian.shtml
Your Brazilian football name generator:J-Unit - Unegra. Has a nice ring to it.

My real name came out lame so I tried my screen name - the result sounds like something you'd buy in an adult toy store:

Tildo

StreetHassle

06-25-2006, 05:06 AM

Yeah, Tink, replace a letter and you'd be all sorts of party of one fun.

My Brazilain Screenname: Strealdo

Firecat

06-25-2006, 06:27 AM

Today...England vs. Ecuador and Portugal vs. Holland

Go Ecuador!

I was speaking with a variety of British people yesterday, they seemed pretty upset about the German victory. Apparently, they are still bitter over the war. I also saw a yahoo news article about some clashes between British and German fans. If these teams meet in 2006, it's gonna be crazy.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-25-2006, 06:30 AM

Today...England vs. Ecuador

I was speaking with a variety of British people yesterday, they seemed pretty upset about the German victory. Apparently, they are still bitter over the war. I also saw a yahoo news article about some clashes between British and German fans. If these teams meet in 2006, it's gonna be crazy.

I have to agree with you about the Anti-Germany sentiment. My English fella and some other English friends were all "gutted" over Germany's win yesterday.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-25-2006, 08:17 AM

Beckham Scores!!

1-0

GO ENGLAND!

Firecat

06-25-2006, 09:12 AM

DAMN YOU BECKHAM!!!!!!!

He can only score off free kicks, bah.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-25-2006, 10:25 AM

DAMN YOU BECKHAM!!!!!!!He can only score off free kicks, bah.

Is someone being a poor sport?

Neener!:p

Firecat

06-25-2006, 02:43 PM

Portugal / Netherlands. What a crazy match. 4 red cards, 16 yellow...

Very exciting though. You could feel the tension, I'm surprised nobody threw any punches. I can't really pass the blame onto the ref, the players should know better as well.

England should be happy, Portugal will be without Deco...and possibly without Ronaldo. Plus, many of their other players will be worried about getting another yellow and missing a game if they continue through....

zoobabe

06-25-2006, 05:44 PM

Beckham Scores!!

1-0

GO ENGLAND!

woohoo! England wins!!! Bend it Becks!!!!

suck it FC!:D

sg-dub. I checked out your link. My comment. World Cup?- kinda blah... baby-dub?- PRICELESS!!!

StreetHassle

06-25-2006, 05:51 PM

I have a theory that half Asians, as a rule, grow to be attractive individuals; however, being exposed to Rothko could prove to be detrimental

HoneyBunny

06-25-2006, 06:37 PM

Shhhh, it's a secret.

I like soccer just a little more than a cow heart on a stick but I did enjoy your adventures to the far flung corners of CT.

Damiano! Pefecto!

hb

TinkerbellAPixie

06-25-2006, 07:36 PM

Baby-dub is quite the little sportsfan. And one with such a wide expansive wardrobe. Great great blog dubster, kept me up too late on a work night reading it -but it was worth it - every single post was hilarious.

roob

06-26-2006, 07:35 AM

That Portugal-Holland game left a bad taste in my mouth. I can't support Portugal anymore after that display - both teams were at fault, but that game just left me disgusted and embarrassed for the sport.

That game winner in the Argentina match was brilliant. I guess I'm going to hitch my wagon to Argentina from here on out. Or Germany, they looked pretty good. Can't support England, as they look horrible and are just squeaking by in every match. That'll end vs. Portugal.

I still have to take a closer look at Spain, too.

Firecat

06-26-2006, 09:49 AM

wow...just wow. That was a dive, IMO.

I'm still glad Italy won, tough luck for Australia

Roob, I kept on thinking about our discussion regarding Italy when that call was made

roob

06-26-2006, 10:01 AM

I got back to my office just in time to see the last 10 minutes or so...missed all of the second half.

FC, you are going to find this odd, but from what I saw (most of the first half and the last 10 minutes), I found the Italians to be less whiny and divey (to invent a word) than normal. Not nearly as bad as the Portugese on Sunday, that's for sure.

I would agree, that foul was a not really a foul. But what a dumb tackle in the box that Aussie made, with all kinds of support from both the end line and the defender behind him. Just stand the guy up - he had nowhere to go!

The Italian "sold it well," but he should have never had the opportunity to sell it. What a cruel way to lose a match, though.

Firecat

06-26-2006, 10:47 AM

You're absolutely right, Neill should never have given the Italian that opportunity....I can't fault the Italians for taking advantage of it. They both played well the entire game, so it was a shame for it to end like that.....the game deserved to go into extra time.

J-Unit

06-26-2006, 10:59 AM

I also thought the Italians did a pretty good job, and I think the red card was a little much. The Aussies played scared with only 1 striker even though the Italians looked to be running around a lot and looking tired. Playing against a favored side with nothing to lose, why not go all out?

roob

06-26-2006, 12:03 PM

It's a shame the way the draw sets up, with Italy vs. the Ukraine/Switzerland winner, and Argentina vs. Germany. The Argentina/Germany winner will walk into the final, I think.

The Swiss look alright, I guess. Looks like Ukraine is mainly trying to counter. I'm just happy I figured out how to get ESPN 360 to squeeze through my company firewall! Is it wrong to take a nearly two hour lunch with my door closed?

Agree that a last second dubious penalty kick is a horrible way to end an even match.

Firecat

06-26-2006, 12:24 PM

Hmmmm....is this ESPN 360 broadcasting all the games?

I've been watching the matches from work on www.viidoo.com

A 2 hour break, nah...that's not unethical at all....:D

I agree, the Australians should have played another forward. This swiss/ukraine match is pretty exciting...no cards?!?

Firecat

06-26-2006, 12:26 PM

It's a shame the way the draw sets up, with Italy vs. the Ukraine/Switzerland winner, and Argentina vs. Germany. The Argentina/Germany winner will walk into the final, I think.

Yeah, Italy has the easiest road. Brazil plays Ghana, and then will have to play either Spain or France. That Germany/Argentina game will be AWESOME!

roob

06-26-2006, 12:56 PM

I looked a little more closely, and I think that ESPN 360 is a pay service that I may be getting a free look at today. We'll see tomorrow, I guess, when I try to call up Brazil-Ghana. And then have lunch with France-Spain. And then get fired. I usually have a rough time getting anything video-related.

The Swiss-Ukraine ref seems to have gone in the opposite direction, but unlike yesterday's Portugal-Holland game, the players haven't taken it into their own hands. There's a lot of tackling (clean, with very little diving!) in this game, but the ref is letting them play on. I like that, as long as the tackling isn't dangerous. He probably could have handed out more than the one he did, but not too much more.

Both teams seem awfully tentative in the second half, but the Swiss more so. I think Ukraine scores in the overtime period. They've been knocking on the door for about 15 minutes.

J-Unit

06-27-2006, 12:49 PM

Sorry Firecat, looks like Spain will have to wait again.

Firecat

06-27-2006, 12:53 PM

LOL....Yeah, Spain was my team, oh well....I like Zidane, so it's bittersweet.

I'll still wear my new España shirt (that I bought yesterday) :P

Not that it matters, but Henry totally faked the elbow to the face. It was a 50-50 challenge, he got hit in the chest...and covered his face. lol.

roob

06-27-2006, 12:55 PM

Too bad. Spain looked so crisp for most of the match.

I'm afraid France doesn't stand a chance vs. Brazil. Though Brazil still hasn't at the top of their game, either.

Firecat

06-27-2006, 12:57 PM

You're right. I have no idea who to support in that match. I love Brazil (as most people do, except Tinkerbell)....but I love Zidane as well. :(

I'll have to go with France. For the other matchups, I like Argentina...Portugal...and Italy.

roob

06-27-2006, 01:32 PM

I'm not ready to see Brazil go away yet, and wasn't all that impressed with France. So it's Brazil, Portugal (reluctantly, after that display on Sunday - but who can support such a dull, uninspired English side), Ukraine (can't support Italy, even if Ukraine bores me to tears) and...I guess I have to be loyal to Germany, since I lived there. This match should be at least a semifinal.

Whoever wins the Argentina-Germany match is the team I'm supporting for the title.

Firecat

06-27-2006, 01:45 PM

Every side I support loses. I supported Italy in '94, they lost to Brazil in PKs. I supported Brazil in '98, they lost to France (because of Zidane)....I really didn't even watch in 2002.

France does still looks shaky, their strongest asset is their defense (which is funny considering WW1 and WW2 lol). I just really like Zidane, he's so good.

The Germans are going to have their first real test on Friday. IMO, Italy and Brazil have had the easiest route so far. I don't particularly like Portgual, it's just that I dislike England...Considering Portugal will be down several top players, plus the rest of the team will be on edge because they are carrying yellows...England has a good shot at the Semis, but France or Brazil will put an end to that.

zoobabe

06-27-2006, 03:03 PM

you boys and all your England hate. I watched some of the France/Spain game with my English date at lunch today. He asked me who I wanted to win. I said "France b/c the guy on my message board that hates England is rooting for Spain". See what happens when you mess with me FC?:p

I made a good joke though b/c I was asking him if the players ever have fistfights on the pitch and he said yes. Then I said- "but not in this game b/c the French don't fight, they're cowards"! At least I thought it was funny.

Firecat

06-27-2006, 03:25 PM

lol....That's kinda funny. I'm sure he would have appreciated a joke against the Germans more though.

I really should have kept my mouth shut regarding the teams I like and the teams I hate :D

I just can't understand why Spain can't win the World Cup. They have some of the best players, they have the best leagues....the teams they send to the Cup are always strong! I can only hope for 2010 South Africa, maybe i'll even go there.

roob

06-28-2006, 07:45 AM

I want to support England, believe me. I have a couple of English guys on my team, and they have the best insults - calling whiny players "tarts" and the like.

I just can't support them, because, well...they suck. They look like hell out there, and they just keep squeaking by in every match. I just can't take them seriously. Though I think FC is right about Portugal - the fact that they are carrying so many yellow cards may be a problem.

Firecat

06-28-2006, 10:32 AM

It's funny, only 7 teams have ever won the World Cup (Italy, Argentina, England, Germany, Brazil, France, and Uruguay). 6 of those teams are still alive in the competition.

France has a good defense, they seem to be coming back into form. I think they will give Brazil some competition. Although, that's partly because Brazil hasn't been looking that good either, of course they seem to be doing better as they move on.

I don't think Ukraine has a chance. Germany/Argentina....wow, what a matchup....I have no idea who will win.

England/Portugal. At their best, Portugal is the better team. Given all the yellow cards and injuries, it's a tough call....Regardless, I think Brazil or France will knock them out in the Semis.

TinkerbellAPixie

06-28-2006, 11:25 AM

You're right. I have no idea who to support in that match. I love Brazil (as most people do, except Tinkerbell)....

Damn Straight - Brazil Blecch!

Every side I support loses.

Then keep rooting against England Buddy! heheh

I don't particularly like Portgual, it's just that I dislike England...

Rarrr!

you boys and all your England hate. I watched some of the France/Spain game with my English date at lunch today. He asked me who I wanted to win. I said "France b/c the guy on my message board that hates England is rooting for Spain". See what happens when you mess with me FC?:p

I made a good joke though b/c I was asking him if the players ever have fistfights on the pitch and he said yes. Then I said- "but not in this game b/c the French don't fight, they're cowards"! At least I thought it was funny.

And this is why I love ZooBabe :o

Firecat

06-28-2006, 05:54 PM

hahaha. I just can't stop the England hate, i'm pre-programmed for it. In fact, i'm gonna step it up and say that I've been to London about a dozen times....and hate it!

:eek:

TinkerbellAPixie

06-28-2006, 06:02 PM

hahaha. I just can't stop the England hate, i'm pre-programmed for it. In fact, i'm gonna step it up and say that I've been to London about a dozen times....and hate it!:eek:

<gasp!>

zoobabe

06-28-2006, 08:06 PM

Are you sure you're not jealous of Becks and his blue shoes FC? Maybe you hated London 'cuz the English girls wouldn't shag you.

Plus- who cares if England is just "squeaking by" in thier games? They're WINNING- which is more than I can say for Spain...:p

roob

06-29-2006, 09:45 AM

Plus- who cares if England is just "squeaking by" in their games? They're WINNING- which is more than I can say for Spain...:p

True enough, the point is to win. I just think when they play a decent side, they are going to get their collective asses handed to them on a platter. Especially if they continue playing the way they have.

Now, having said that, the potential is there for more, if they would just get their shit together. I love Rooney - if he rounds into form and someone gets him the ball where he can do something with it, anything's possible.

zoobabe

06-30-2006, 11:06 AM

I have a new soccer hero now- LEHMAN! We watched that game on Univision today. Best part was the Spanish-speaking announcer saying "GOALGOALGOALGOAL.." when they score. I told my date that Lehman was cute, so in the shootout I said "come on cute goalie and block the kick", and he DID!! He was great with his reaction at the end too. Great game!

One more day until England kicks some Portugese ass!!!:D

Firecat

06-30-2006, 01:58 PM

Alright...I'm conflicted. Another team I love lost (Argentina)...but then the other team I love (Italy) won. Am I still a jinx? Maybe it's because I missed the first 35 mins of the Italy game.

Anyway, Argentina played awesome in the first half. They lost on their substitutions. The players were getting tired, no subs made. Then they were forced to sub the goalie which kinda screwed things up for them. I just can't believe they didn't bring in Messi and Saviola.

Firecat

07-01-2006, 07:54 AM

lol...England is playing well for the first time in the tournament.

Firecat

07-01-2006, 10:31 AM

Yeah, Portugal!

What sucks is that i've been watching a feed online, and it was working fine right up until the first penalty kick....then it cut. There were a bunch of other people with me (some customers from different countries) that were watching also, we were totally bummed.

Anyway, Brazil / France next. Go Zidane!

TinkerbellAPixie

07-01-2006, 10:51 AM

Anyway, Brazil / France next. Go Zidane!

It's a sad day. :(

Viva La France!! Kick some Brazilian arse! :mad:

Firecat

07-01-2006, 01:58 PM

What an awesome game, best so far. Zidane was amazing.

doctorsnark

07-01-2006, 03:35 PM

What an awesome game, best so far. Zidane was amazing.

nice to see some good clean, well-officiated football! amazing game. zidane is a pleasure to watch.

and portugal guts out another one in overtime... good to see cristiano back in form following that bloody cleat to the thigh... and nice to note the team is deep enough to wipe the pitch with england even without deco.

overall, a great day!

semi-final matches should be intense. my call on the final: germany-portugal (but that last part might be wishful thinking!)

zoobabe

07-01-2006, 05:25 PM

I'm glad that I was working today and didn't have to watch England lose. Thankfully, they are only my team by association and not my TEAM as in real football (American).:D

Firecat

07-01-2006, 07:36 PM

I want France to win, just because of Zidane. After that, I wouldn't mind seeing Italy win. I don't particularly like Germany or Portugal.

England played well, considering they were a man down throughout much of the 2nd half and overtime.

Christiano Ronaldo may be moving to Real Madrid, not that the folks at Man United would want him back now LOL.

Firecat

07-02-2006, 09:21 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OOWTTV5dRU

^video of Zidane schooling the Brazilians last night. Best footballer of the decade, very smart of France to bring him out of retirement for one last shot at the cup.

:cool:

zoobabe

07-02-2006, 10:20 AM

FC- that was a good video. Thanks for sharing!

Do you know the name of the little guy on the German team that wears orange shoes and is really good/quick at dribbling the ball past the other team's defenders? When I watched the Germany game I was quite impressed with him (and the cute goalie).:)

Firecat

07-02-2006, 10:59 AM

?

http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/w/photos/ger.html?i=167&d=1

zoobabe

07-02-2006, 12:12 PM

that's him FC. Thank you:)

(I guess his shoes are red)

I might have to cheer for Germany now, even though I'm Italian so I should go for my heritage. You and roob keep talking about how the Italians like to fake injuries to get penalties called though, and I just don't like that style of play. Plus- if you're cheering for Italy FC- I have to go against you and cheer for Germany. You ARE a jinx-right?:D

Firecat

07-02-2006, 12:16 PM

lol....I'm for France first, then Italy. The Italians haven't been that bad, and they seem to be playing better. They should give the Germans some stiff competition.

I'm a little worried about France because a few players are carrying yellow cards (including Zidane), and Portugal has been playing pretty rough lately...so I hope more yellows don't start flying, because then some players may end up missing the final.

zoobabe

07-02-2006, 12:19 PM

can we (you, Tink and I and whoever else is logged on) just go into chat? It's much more personal. :)

TinkerbellAPixie

07-02-2006, 01:25 PM

can we (you, Tink and I and whoever else is logged on) just go into chat? It's much more personal. :)

Oops - sorry I didn't see this until it was too late. Sorry. :(

Firecat

07-04-2006, 01:45 PM

Forza Italia!

Unless they meet France in the final :p

roob

07-05-2006, 07:34 AM

Back at work after a loooooooooooooooong July 4th weekend...what a game yesterday! Too bad about the result, though. I hope the Italians are able to heal all of the terrible head injuries they incurred!;)

Now that Germany is out, I am feeling France, though it pains me to do so. I was liking Portugal early on, but actually found myself rooting for England against Portugal (probably for the same reasons I hate the Italian side).

I have the same attitude in World Cup that I do in baseball...my second favorite team is whoever is playing Italy (which is how I feel about the Dodgers!).

Firecat

07-05-2006, 07:38 AM

lol.....France all the way. I'm still worried about the fact that some key players for France are carrying yellows, and we've all seen how Portugal has been playing. Could be dangerous.

I'm hoping for the best. Go Zidane!

Italy finished well, a minute longer and they would have been out on penalties.

roob

07-05-2006, 10:13 AM

That's the part that is killing me...one more minute. But I must say, that goal was brilliant!

I know this goes back a ways, but the game Zidane had against Brazil was enough to win me over to the French side. I hope they win today, because I'm going to have a really hard time rooting for that pretty boy Christiano Ronaldo if Portugal goes against Italy in the final.

J-Unit

07-05-2006, 12:00 PM

Good game so far. I love how the crows is booing Christiano Ronaldo's every touch. I would be rooting for Portugal as an underdog, but Ronaldo has been a disgrace. Although some blame him for the Rooney throw off, that red card was deserved. Besides that, he has been disgrace when it came to diving.

Now, Henry's foul for the PK? He definitely embellished it a lot with the arms and legs flailing, but the foul was pretty obvious, and Henry would have been unobstructed in front of the goal. Good job with Zidane finishing the PK.

The game was getting a little sloppy towards the end, and I hope the ref can keep it under control because both teams have been playing great attacking soccer throughout the first half.

Firecat

07-05-2006, 01:11 PM

France had some problems near the end (Barthez is a little shaky in goal)....but I'm happy with the result. Good game. Portugal did a lot of diving and acting...sheesh.

Anyway, Viva La France! As long as Zidane is playing, I can't say "Forza Italia"....

roob

07-05-2006, 01:37 PM

I love how the crowd rode Ronaldo...he's going to kick himself when (if) he watches the replay and sees that he had some decent chances had he stayed on his feet. That being said, if he ever grows up, he's going to be (already is, really) an amazing player. So fast!

I thought the PK was deserved, too. Henry would have had an unobstructed path had he avoided the tackle, and though he may have embellished the fall...bottom line is, Portugal has no room to bitch about anything close to a dive.

I can't believe that clown that reffed the US-Italy game was the one working the semifinal. Someone must have had a talk with him about cards, because they weren't flowing nearly as freely.

FC, I'd be worried about Barthez, too. Seems like you just need to fire at him on goal, and sooner or later, he'll give you something.

Firecat

07-05-2006, 01:47 PM

Exactly, and I'm sure Italy will exploit that. France has their work cut out for them. The Goalkeeper for Italy is magnificent, the best in the tournament. I think he may get the Golden Ball.

It will be an exciting match. I think the 3rd place match should be good as well....I have a feeling it may end in blows (considering their styles and past games), but maybe not because there isn't that much on the line....except pride.

J-Unit

07-05-2006, 02:43 PM

Barthez is going to make it very adventurous. Buffon has been so solid saving the few chances the Italian back four have allowed, and Barthez just seems to be caught wrong-footed all of the time.

I guess we have to remember that Ronaldo is still very young. He looked like the best player on his team today, but maybe that was because Pauleta was absent and Deco didn't get into the game at all.

I'll probably root for France, but I think this will be a good game. France showed the game can be changed on one mistake, and Italy showed that if you are patient, your chances will come. Great final Sunday!

doctorsnark

07-05-2006, 03:29 PM

TinkerbellAPixie

07-05-2006, 03:49 PM

i just couldn't let the afternoon go by without someone representing the portuguese...

If it helps - I think the Portugese team has the most attractive men of all the teams. England has a few hotties - but Portugal is ALL hotties. ;)

Firecat

07-05-2006, 05:46 PM

as a proud fan of the portuguese team (who is actually wearing his #17 jersey today), i am a bit disheartened by the anti-ronaldo sentiment on this board. i am curious as to whether people dislike him because he is pretty? or is it because he is the best young player europe has produced in years? yeah, he's young... and yeah, the portuguese as a rule (much like the italians) are theatrical in their play... and yeah, i agree, sometimes they dive. but i challenge you to run as fast as he does, and dance around the ball as much as he does, and not fall down even from the slightest touch or clip.

and speaking of dives, let's not overlook the fact that this afternoon's winning penalty kick was debatable at best. a direct free kick may have been a better call. i wish i could have more faith in the officials, but given their track record this cup...

with that said, i have enjoyed the comments and banter in the forums during the cup... but i just couldn't let the afternoon go by without someone representing the portuguese...

Hmmm....I don't think i've been that harsh on either Ronaldo or the Portuguese team. I don't doubt his talent, or the talent of the team. I do think that they suffered in the end because of their style (they have been playing fairly rough, compared to everyone else). Plus all the diving (Which really should have produced some yellows) ruined their flow

That said.... Figo and Deco are 2 of my fave players. And I was supporting Portugal against England.

I disagree on your thoughts regarding the penalty, it wasn't debatable. The rules are clear. Henry was taken down in the box, it has to be a penalty.

On this day, France was just the better team (until the last 15 minutes maybe lol).

doctorsnark

07-05-2006, 06:15 PM

Hmmm....I don't think i've been that harsh on either Ronaldo or the Portuguese team....

I disagree on your thoughts regarding the penalty, it wasn't debatable. The rules are clear. Henry was taken down in the box, it has to be a penalty.

no offense intended, firecat. i certainly didn't mean to seem as if i was pointing fingers at anyone in particular... just taken as a whole, the board seemed to need a little more "pro-portugal" sentiment for balance!

and i completely agree with your (above) statement that if a player is taken down in the box, it has to be a penalty kick. you're right. the rules are clear. i guess what i disagree with is the use of "taken down" as i think in this case that was a bit more debatable, and given the course of the game to that point, the official had lattitude as to what call to make. but we may have to agree to disagree on that one!

regardless of that call, the pk, the final score... it was good football. france is, without a doubt, a strong and consistent team. i just don't think i could cheer for them just yet...

Firecat

07-05-2006, 06:21 PM

lol....It's all good. :cool:

But you're gonna have to take your pick. It's either Italy or France :D
I think i'm leaning towards Portugal in the third place match....provided they stay on their feet....hehehehe

Firecat

07-06-2006, 06:49 AM

Candidates for the Golden Ball

http://fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/06/en/060706/1/8mhj.html

roob

07-06-2006, 07:58 AM

as a proud fan of the portuguese team (who is actually wearing his #17 jersey today), i am a bit disheartened by the anti-ronaldo sentiment on this board. i am curious as to whether people dislike him because he is pretty? or is it because he is the best young player europe has produced in years? yeah, he's young... and yeah, the portuguese as a rule (much like the italians) are theatrical in their play... and yeah, i agree, sometimes they dive. but i challenge you to run as fast as he does, and dance around the ball as much as he does, and not fall down even from the slightest touch or clip.

and speaking of dives, let's not overlook the fact that this afternoon's winning penalty kick was debatable at best. a direct free kick may have been a better call. i wish i could have more faith in the officials, but given their track record this cup...

with that said, i have enjoyed the comments and banter in the forums during the cup... but i just couldn't let the afternoon go by without someone representing the portuguese...

I was a supporter of the Portugese side for most of the World Cup, right up until the match against the Dutch - you know, the one where Figo should have been ejected for a head butt, and there was diving all over the place. That match left a sour taste in my mouth for them.

About Ronaldo, I gotta agree with FC on this...I think Ronaldo is already an amazing player, and has a chance to be incredible. He just has to mature...his diving was over the top and actually hurt his team at times, and his antics leading up to and immediately after the Rooney ejection were childish.

But once he grows out of those tendencies (assuming he does), he is soooooooooo fast - I've never seen anyone keep the ball on such a short leash at such high speeds - it's really a treat to watch him attack defenders at full speed.

The penalty kick was deserved. It may not have been a super rough foul, but it impeded Henry's progress when he had a clear path to goal. That, combined with the fact that the tackle would have been a foul anywhere else on the pitch, meant that the referee had to award the penalty. He didn't have a choice.

I'm not sure I could support Buffon for the Golden Boot - he hasn't been tested enough, I don't think. It's got to be Zidane.

J-Unit

07-08-2006, 12:41 PM

Solid 3rd place game, at least if you're a Germany fan. Although I suspect that they wonder why Scweinstager couldn't come up with those sort of chances against Italy. Overall, I think Portugal had a good effort, but it is difficult to come up with the energy for the third place game, especially when the host country is there. Nice ovation for Figo when he came in, but if this is his last game, kind of sad that he goes out in mop up time.

Who's going to stick around for the Champion's league and Euro 08?

Firecat

07-09-2006, 08:32 AM

Who's going to stick around for the Champion's league and Euro 08?

Which is why it was important for teams to give their younger players some time in this world cup. I think Spain has a young squad, and should do well in Euro 08....A lot of other great players may not be around in 2 years, but we'll see.

I'm really looking forward to this final. Viva La France!

J-Unit

07-09-2006, 10:09 AM

Firecat

07-09-2006, 10:50 AM

Wow, I thought they would let a little more contact go this early into the game, but Zidane had an amazing touch on that PK.

The ghost of the Socceroos comes back to haunt the Azzuri? Luckily, the Italians still have a great advantage - Barthez playing goal for France....

ROFL @ Barthez.

I'm not so sure that was a penalty, didn't really see any contact. Italy has been playing better, hopefully France will pick it up in the 2nd half.

zoobabe

07-09-2006, 10:52 AM

I'm trying to watch it guys, but the BB live feeds are addicting!!!:D

Firecat

07-09-2006, 12:31 PM

Stupid, Stupid, Stupid...Even if the guy insulted your mother, what the hell was he thinking?!?

Firecat

07-09-2006, 12:46 PM

Congrats Italy....I liked them anyway, so I'm not that upset, even though I really wanted France to win. :cool:

J-Unit

07-09-2006, 12:46 PM

Can't believe that Zidane would have pulled that kind of shit. Too bad, because France were controlling the game through the last part of the second half and the overtime periods.

However, good job to the Italians for finally having the guts to make it through on penalties for once! Too bad the match fixing scandal is always going to be associated with this win for them.

Ness

07-09-2006, 01:05 PM

Yay for Italy, after what the Zidane did, France deserved to lose. Now I must go call my uncle who lives in France and laugh at his ass.
What a great game, the first time I watch the world cup and the team I go for wins (so much for being a jinx:p ).
J-Unit
Luckily, the Italians still have a great advantage - Barthez playing goal for France.... lol, yea he sucks :D

Smaggy

07-09-2006, 06:31 PM

I'm so happy Italy won. What Zidane did was crappy. Not too many penalties either. Which is an accomplishment, us Italians have tempers.

zoobabe

07-10-2006, 07:34 AM

yeah guys- I got to see the highlights last night. Zidane was a total asshole for doing what he did. Too bad that his last World Cup appearance will be marred by the stigma of poor sportmanship.

roob

07-10-2006, 07:34 AM

zoobabe

07-10-2006, 07:40 AM

Seeing Italy win the World Cup is like seeing the Dallas Cowboys win the Super Bowl, or the Dodgers win the World Series. Makes me want to vomit.

Be still my heart! A Cowboys hater?

I was just talking shit to the Cowboys fans at the bar last night. It's loads of fun!:D

doctorsnark

07-10-2006, 07:49 AM

yeah guys- I got to see the highlights last night. Zidane was a total asshole for doing what he did. Too bad that his last World Cup appearance will be marred by the stigma of poor sportmanship.

whats worse is that despite the antics, he still won the golden ball. with all of FIFA's concentration and attention on fair play and good sportsmanship, the award was an embarrassment to soccer and an insult to the other nominated players.

zoobabe

07-10-2006, 08:00 AM

whats worse is that despite the antics, he still won the golden ball. with all of FIFA's concentration and attention on fair play and good sportsmanship, the award was an embarrassment to soccer and an insult to the other nominated players.

I didn't know he won it. That's crap and he should be embarrassed to accept it after what he did. You're right doctorsnark.

Firecat

07-10-2006, 10:53 AM

What a horrible way for a final to end. What Zidane did was incredibly stupid...can't believe what I saw. I heard that Zambrotto (it was him, right?) give him a little titty twister before the head butt, but regardless of what happened, that was an incredibly stupid thing to do. I wish he would have buried that header in a corner in the first OT period - it should have never come to PKs.

Seeing Italy win the World Cup is like seeing the Dallas Cowboys win the Super Bowl, or the Dodgers win the World Series. Makes me want to vomit.

It was Materazzi. He has a reputation in Serie A for being a dirty player. Not that it should excuse what Zidane did. If Buffon saved even one of the PKs, he should have got it. Otherwise I think Cannavaro should have got the award.

Firecat

07-10-2006, 11:47 AM

I read a few articles. According to Zidane's agent, he is sad about what happened and didn't want it to end that way. He said Materrazi had made a "very serious comment"...but didn't want to say what, he'll discuss it later. Some other papers have said (According to lip readers) that Materrazi called Zidane's sister a prositute...and others have said there was something going on about Materrazi made a comment about being a "terrorist" and not having the right to play for France (referring to Zidane's Algerian heritage).

Even if any of this is true, it doesn't excuse what he did. But just sheds a little light on it.

roob

07-10-2006, 12:15 PM

Be still my heart! A Cowboys hater?

I was just talking shit to the Cowboys fans at the bar last night. It's loads of fun!:D

Even better than being a Cowboys hater is being a Cowboys hater in Texas. I'm seriously jealous.

Firecat

07-10-2006, 12:19 PM

Zidane never even touched him, just take a closer look....

http://f10.putfile.com/7/19005024357.gif

roob

07-10-2006, 12:19 PM

It was Materazzi. He has a reputation in Serie A for being a dirty player. Not that it should excuse what Zidane did. If Buffon saved even one of the PKs, he should have got it. Otherwise I think Cannavaro should have got the award.

Despite the fact that I can't stand the Italian side, after what Zidane did, I think it should have been Cannavaro as well. One of the few Italian players who stays on his feet.

I've read a lot of the same, FC. The stuff about Matarazzi's rep seems pretty prevalent, and I've heard both the prostititute and terrorist stuff, as well. Regardless, you keep your cool in that situation. Smack talking, no matter how disgusting or low of a level Matarazzi may have taken it to, is prevalent in all sports nowadays. And Matarazzi got exactly what he was looking for - an ejection of Zidane.

I've read a lot on different sports blogs today, claiming that Italy was a "deserving" champion. What complete BS. They should have never gotten by Australia, let alone won the final.

Firecat

07-10-2006, 12:29 PM

The fact that they couldn't beat the United States made me question the Italian side. Of course France started out pretty rough as well. Perhaps they are looking at the fact that half the Italian squad have an uncertain future in Italy due to the match-fixing scandal, but they still managed to win the cup. I can see that. To be honest, no team had a perfect world cup. Except Germany I guess...they were the most consistent.

I agree that Zidane should have kept his cool. I criticized Rooney and Figo for a similar loss of temper, so I have to criticize Zidane as well.....As someone mentioned above, I just wish Zidane buried that header.....and all of this could have been avoided, and the game would have ended on a magical note (PKs suck)

roob

07-10-2006, 12:46 PM

It goes all the way back to the way the draw was set up. Germany should have never faced Argentina in the quarters. That one of those teams HAD to go so early kind of sucked - they were the two most consistent teams in the tournament, from pool play forward.

PKs do suck, by the way. With you on that one.

zoobabe

07-10-2006, 04:36 PM

Even better than being a Cowboys hater is being a Cowboys hater in Texas. I'm seriously jealous.

not only in Texas roob, but in the DFW area! I'll talk shit in your name-don't worry.:D The Cowboys have T.O. now. That's worth a lot of shit-talking!!!

roob

07-11-2006, 07:31 AM

not only in Texas roob, but in the DFW area! I'll talk shit in your name-don't worry.:D The Cowboys have T.O. now. That's worth a lot of shit-talking!!!

I know - it could not have come together better for me. The two teams I always root against (well, three, if you include the Raiders) are the Cowboys and whoever TO plays for (since he left the Niners, anyway). I can't wait for that jackass to completely screw up the Cowboys' season.

ObstinantGirl

07-12-2006, 09:27 AM

Firecat...that's a funny clip! Damn that lamppost, huh?

I was raised on soccer. All of the private schools that I attended had soccer instead of football. Low-level soccer can be kind of dull and tedious to watch, but World Cup level soccer? Amazing. The skill of these guys is tremendous, and their athleticism.

That said, the Italian teams Drama Queens, and the French teams Bad Sportsmanship (Zidane, and not just the head-butting episode, but other episodes as well...), they ruined this WC for me. And by midway through the final game, I really didn't care WHO won.

In any sport, people try to psych one another out. Tossing out comments, making cheap shots, etc...it's not unusual. And if you're a player who's made it this far in your sport (whatever the sport might be) you should be used to it, and you should know how to control your temper. Hey, find a LEGAL way to get back at someone! That's what people do in football all the time.

It's a shame.

Firecat

07-12-2006, 11:46 AM

I thought this was an interesting article....

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/phil_taylor/07/12/zidane/index.html?section=si_latest

ObstinantGirl

07-12-2006, 11:53 AM

I read it.
I just can't bring myself to feel sorry for either one of them.
They both acted unprofessionally (IMO), and they both made bad choices. Now they'll both have to live with whatever consequences (and they're BOTH getting consequences, natural or otherwise) arise out of the situation.

Ultimately, though, Zidane's the one who took it too far & reacted violently and physically.

roob

07-12-2006, 02:48 PM

Depends on your point of view, I think.

Here's a blog discussion worth looking at, if you can get past the idiots who blindly support their team, regardless of circumstance. And I'm not just referring to the Italian fans!:D

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/si_blogs/soccer/world_cup_blog/2006/07/case-of-he-said-he-said.html

My opinion? Of course Zidane is a pro and should have acted like it. But that doesn't excuse the mentality of the Italians - or any other team, for that matter, where the thinking is that the end justifies the means, no matter what those means might be.

Anyone who claims that diving and acting and trash talking are part of the game ought to understand that there are varying degrees of all of that stuff. And there were plenty of teams in the World Cup that managed to stay on their feet (for the most part) and avoid the cheap shots (for the most part) that characterized the Italian run.

Personally, a championship run like that would be tainted for me, if I were a fan (or a player). The phantom PK against the Aussies, anyone? But I doubt the Italians feel that way, since this is the way they always play.