:official: world cup thread !!

[tupacboy]

so.... i'm pulling for 3 teams... the united states (where i am a citizen), germany, and korea (i'm 3/4 korean, 1/4 german)... germany got a great draw in group A.. they should have no problem winning... Korea has France in group G... they'll be tough... and US got Itatly, Czech republic, and Ghana... its a tough group there in E... here are my favs to win in each group

A = Germany
B = England
C = Argentina
D = Portugal (but they have some good competition)
E = US (i always root for my teams :) )
F = Brazil
G = Korea (see group E)
H = Spain

who do you guys pick for each group?

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/draw/worldcup?cc=5901

[attgig]

i forget, how many teams go to the finals? is it 2 from each group?

[bachviet]

The US is in the really tough group. I'm pulling for the US and France (my favorite team ever since I started watching soccer in 1982). :D Spain gets the easiest draw for this World Cup. Group C is destined to be the Group of Death with Argentina, Netherlands, Ivory Coast, and Serbia. Here are my picks:

Group A - Germany
Group B - England
Group C - Argentina
Group D - Portugal
Group E - Italy
Group F - Brazil
Group G - France
Group H - Spain

[baggio248]

Group winners and runner-ups qualify for the Knockout Round of 16.
Winner Group A plays Runner-up Group B in Munich on Sat., Jun. 24.
Winner Group B plays Runner-up Group A in Stuttgart on Sun., Jun. 25.
Winner Group C plays Runner-up Group D in Leipzig on Sat., Jun. 24.
Winner Group D plays Runner-up Group C in Nuremberg on Sun., Jun. 25.
Winner Group E plays Runner-up Group F in Kaiserslautern on Mon., Jun. 26.
Winner Group F plays Runner-up Group E in Dortmund on Tue., Jun. 27.
Winner Group G plays Runner-up Group H in Cologne on Mon., Jun. 26.
Winner Group H plays Runner-up Group G in Hanover on Tue., Jun. 27.

FIFA World Cup 2006 Group Stage Draw
GROUP A
A1 Germany GER
A2 Costa Rica CRC
A3 Poland POL
A4 Ecuador ECU

GROUP B
B1 England ENG
B2 Paraguay PAR
B3 Trinidad & Tobago TRI
B4 Sweden SWE

GROUP C
C1 Argentina ARG
C2 Ivory Coast CIV
C3 Serbia & Montenegro SCG
C4 Netherlands NED

GROUP D
D1 Mexico MEX
D2 Iran IRN
D3 Angola ANG
D4 Portugal POR

GROUP E
E1 Italy ITA
E2 Ghana GHA
E3 United States USA
E4 Czech Rep. CZE

GROUP F
F1 Brazil BRA
F2 Croatia CRO
F3 Australia AUS
F4 Japan JPN

GROUP G
G1 France FRA
G2 Switzerland SUI
G3 South Korea KOR
G4 Togo TOG

GROUP H
H1 Spain ESP
H2 Ukraine UKR
H3 Tunisia TUN
H4 Saudi Arabia KSA

There are a couple of good draws, and then the rest are should be easy.
My outright 1st palce picks are the obvious favorites. Next to my picks are the ones I think can actually be in first, though 1 and 2 doens't matter all that much.

A = Germany
B = England (Sweeden)
C = Argentina (Netherlands)
D = Portugal (Mexico)
E = Italy (US)
F = Brazil (Croatia)
G = France
H = Spain

[Butch]

I can't wait until the World Cup rolls around . . . it will be really exciting out here . . . I just wish I could get my hands on some tickets :sad:

On a more fun note, though, one of my new clients is one of the official sponsors of the World Cup . . . maybe -just MAYBE - there's some hope for tickets?? Please please please! :love:

[baggio248]

I can't wait until the World Cup rolls around . . . it will be really exciting out here . . . I just wish I could get my hands on some tickets :sad:

On a more fun note, though, one of my new clients is one of the official sponsors of the World Cup . . . maybe -just MAYBE - there's some hope for tickets?? Please please please! :love:

Yeah, I wish I was going. Maybe you're client can hook you up with a bunch of free promo stuff, then you can share with us. :hihi:

[Merlin]

Soccer...who cares? :shrug:

[VTGreg]

About 175 million people tune in for the Superbowl each year. Approximately 350 million people tuned in to watch the draw announced for the world cup today. Sounds like there are some out there who care.

[baggio248]

1 Brazil
2 Czech Rep.
3 Netherlands
4 Argentina
5 USA
6 Spain
7 Mexico
8 France
9 England
10 Portugal
11 Turkey
12 Italy
12 Nigeria
14 Denmark
15 Cameroon
16 Sweden
17 Egypt
18 Japan
19 Iran
19 Croatia

[ialsohaveadream]

All I can say is "GOOOOOO ARGENTINA!"

[Grubbie]

Soccer...who cares? :shrug:

And there folks, is your typical american...

[speedracer120]

Damn, I was hoping the games were later. I'm slated to be in Italy studying till early July. Damn!

[kimchicowboy]

be the reds!

[AlpineJay]

oooooh pilsung korea!

[speedracer120]

be the reds!
They need to change that slogan. I've turned down many a free T-shirts because of that. heheh.

[zenbooty]

Isn't that thing like 3 or 4 months away still? Its basketball time.

[speedracer120]

Zen quit being a universal wet blanket.

[zenbooty]

Zen quit being a universal wet blanket.
:cry: :pfft:




:king:

[Butch]

If anybody has any hookups for World Cup tickets, hook me up! :wavey2:

I'm in Germany and willing to go wherever in the country I can to catch a game! :cheers:

heh, yeah . . . good luck to me . . . tix are impossible to get.

Bah Humbug.

[kimchicowboy]

my coworker's going to the worldcup and was hoping to get tickets from scalpers...only hearing that the police are totally cracking down on that.

[Butch]

my coworker's going to the worldcup and was hoping to get tickets from scalpers...only hearing that the police are totally cracking down on that.

All tickets are registered, have names printed on them and you have to show ID at the gate.

If it's not your name on the ticket, you have to be with the person whose name IS on the ticket. eg. if I buy two tickets and I put my name on both and want to bring a friend, that's fine . . . but the friend has to be with me when we go through the gate. If I get sick and can't make the game, my friend is SOL.

Scalping will be VERY tough . . . if possible at all.

[ArkiStan]

My friend works for Yahoo, a sponsor for the game, so I managed to snag tickets for all of Korea's Group G matches (except France) and two of the round of sixteen matches (which will hopefully include Korea).

I'm goin to Germany!!!! Now where do I get my hands on some Be the Reds shirts.....

[baggio248]

Rank / Country
1 Brazil
2 Czech Rep.
3 Netherlands
4 USA
5 Spain
6 Mexico
7 France
8 Portugal
8 Argentina
10 England
11 Denmark
12 Nigeria
13 Turkey
14 Italy
15 Cameroon
16 Sweden
17 Japan
18 Egypt
19 Greece
19 Germany

[zenbooty]

Still not world cup time yet. Y'all watching UEFA Champion's League? Its the semifinal 1st leg, after all. And Arsenal is up 1-0 on Villareal at 75:00...

[baggio248]

Still not world cup time yet. Y'all watching UEFA Champion's League? Its the semifinal 1st leg, after all. And Arsenal is up 1-0 on Villareal at 75:00...

I'm just amazed that the US is #4 even after the ridiculous game against Germany.

I'm excited for the Champions league. I wish I was watching and not at work. I can't wait to see who's in the finals.

[kimchicowboy]

I'm just amazed that the US is #4 even after the ridiculous game against Germany.

:agree: my coworker is headed to germany to catch some games. he's a hardcore soccer guy and doesn't know how the US is ranked 4th.

me: GO TEAM KOREA!


My friend works for Yahoo, a sponsor for the game, so I managed to snag tickets for all of Korea's Group G matches (except France) and two of the round of sixteen matches (which will hopefully include Korea).

I'm goin to Germany!!!! Now where do I get my hands on some Be the Reds shirts.....
you lucky bastard.

[bachviet]

The US ranks #4 because it beat plenty of weak teams. :P

[VTGreg]

I'm just amazed that the US is #4 even after the ridiculous game against Germany.

I'm excited for the Champions league. I wish I was watching and not at work. I can't wait to see who's in the finals.

While the US is definitely overrated at #4, the Germany debacle isn't nearly as embarrassing as the 4-1 final score indicates. Germany had what will likely be their world cup squad because all of the German clubs were required to release their players for the friendly. The US on the other hand did not have most of their likely world cup starters.

The US will suprise many this world cup. It's an absolute joke that they weren't picked as one of the 8 top seeds after finishing above Mexico in CONCACAF qualifying.

[tupacboy]

While the US is definitely overrated at #4, the Germany debacle isn't nearly as embarrassing as the 4-1 final score indicates. Germany had what will likely be their world cup squad because all of the German clubs were required to release their players for the friendly. The US on the other hand did not have most of their likely world cup starters.

The US will suprise many this world cup. It's an absolute joke that they weren't picked as one of the 8 top seeds after finishing above Mexico in CONCACAF qualifying.


I agree US is a lot stronger then people think... after they qualified... they hardly have a proper full roster for any scrim... germany was almost at full strength for that game...

[bachviet]

FIFA needs to have different formula for the ranking since this system doesn't tell the true story. The US ranks higher than Argentina and I'll take Argentina everyday over the US.

[Butch]

SWEEET . . . just upped my World Cup ticket haul with tix to the two games I really wanted! (By the way, if anyone is interested, FIFA is releasing new tix now through noon on Monday)

I JUST got 2 tix to the USA vs. Czech Republic game in Geisenkirchen on June 12, and 2 tix to the Korea vs. Togo game in Frankfurt on June 13 (OK, so not my first choice for a game in Frankfurt - England vs. Paraguay would have been better, but I just wanted ANY tix to a Frankfurt game . . . Ark, you're going to this game, too?).

Add that to the 2 tix I have for Serbia v. Ivory Coast in Munich and 2 to Ukraine v. Tunisia in Berlin . . . can't wait until World Cup time around here!

[ArkiStan]

Yes, I'll be at the Korea vs. Togo game! It's gonna be quite hectic, but maybe we can meet up briefly and say hi to each other. Hell, if Korea wins, you can come get piss drunk with me and my friends, Korean-style!! hehe.

BTW, how much were the tiks?

[Butch]

Yes, I'll be at the Korea vs. Togo game! It's gonna be quite hectic, but maybe we can meet up briefly and say hi to each other. Hell, if Korea wins, you can come get piss drunk with me and my friends, Korean-style!! hehe.

BTW, how much were the tiks?

Sounds like a plan . . . tix were 60 Euros each (Cat. 1, obstructed view) . . . there are some more tix for the game on the site now . . . same category . . . as well as some for Korea v. France

Now, if I could get USA vs. Italy, I'd be REALLY happy . . . weekend game near Frankfurt

Edit: those tix are gone now

[Butch]

FIFA started a new conditional ticket phase today, in case anyone is interested in trying for more tix.

I put in an application for the USA vs. Italy game and the Brazil vs. Australia game. At most, you can get tix to only one game . . . would LOVE the Brazil vs. Australia game!

[Butch]

hee heeeee . . . World Cup Tix arrived this morning!

[baggio248]

hee heeeee . . . World Cup Tix arrived this morning!

I'm jeaous!! That's so sweet. I was watching Road to FIFA WC 2006 on FSC yesterday and they were previewing all the EU teams. They are going by continent breaking down the teams and doing interviews. It was an interesting show and has me ready for WC!

[TofuNinja]

hee heeeee . . . World Cup Tix arrived this morning!

Which game(s)?

[cheapie]

the koreans over that skating thing or would they do that silly dance again if they met? :|

[baggio248]

1 Brazil
2 Czech Republic
3 Netherlands
4 Mexico
5 USA
5 Spain
7 Portugal
8 France
9 Argentina
10 England
11 Nigeria
11 Denmark
13 Italy
14 Turkey
15 Cameroon
16 Sweden
17 Egypt
18 Japan
19 Germany
20 Greece

[baggio248]

Still not world cup time yet. Y'all watching UEFA Champion's League? Its the semifinal 1st leg, after all. And Arsenal is up 1-0 on Villareal at 75:00...

1-0 Arsenal after a half. Goal by Sol Campbell off a header, and Arsenal is playing a man down. I can't wait to get home and watch Tivo!

[Butch]

1-0 Arsenal after a half. Goal by Sol Campbell off a header, and Arsenal is playing a man down. I can't wait to get home and watch Tivo!

Yep, watching the game now . . . good game!

By the way, my tix for the WC are . . .

June 12: USA vs. Czech Republic in Geisenkirchen
June 13: Korea vs. Togo in Frankfurt
June 21: Serbia vs. Ivory Coast in Munich
June 23: Ukraine vs. Tunisia in Berlin

Of course, I'm most excited about the first game . . . 2nd game I only got because it's in Frankfurt . . . 3rd and 4th games are more about the location than anything . . . one of my best friends from college will be coming out for the Munich & Berlin games, so we'll travel around Germany and spend some time in those cities and catch the games. Can't wait!

I'm still scrambling to try to find tix to the Brazil vs. Australia game in Munich on the 18th . . . would LOVE those!

[baggio248]

My friend text messaged me with the score and info. I'm currently reading the action on ESPN Game Cast. It's sort of lame, but it gets the job done.

[Butch]

Ooooh . . . Barcelona tied it up in the 76th minute . . . I'm definitely getting more into soccer since I've been in Europe . . . heh

Edit: And in the 80th minute . . . just took the lead! Darn good game!

[VTGreg]

What a great match! Aresenal played quality ball while down a man most of the game. I would have liked the referee to have given Barcelona the first goal and give the keeper a yellow card. That decision to award a red card obviously had a huge impact on the game and Aresenal's goal came off a very shaky free kick.

Still a great game in spite of some of the questionable calls. Today really has me ready for the World Cup. I will definitely be disappearing from work at key times at least a few mornings every week.

[bachviet]

Arsenal goal came from a free kick with a phantom foul, i.e. he dived. :D Barcelona deserved to win this game. Too bad I missed the whole second half.

[VTGreg]

Just 2 1/2 weeks remaining before the opening match. Who will everyone be pulling for and what concerns do you have for your squad as training ends and the pre-cup tune-ups are played?

[MikeD]

Los Estados Unidos!

Wife is Chilean, so she'll probaby be pulling for a South American club. At any rate, looking forward to some good matches.

[bachviet]

France is my #1 team (ever since I started watching soccer in 1982 back in VN). My next favorite team is the US but I don't think they are going very far this time. My third choice has to be Holland.

[ialsohaveadream]

Argentina! Although of course I'll root for the home team, too. :)

[VTGreg]

Well last night was not a good night for the US national team. I'm less worried about the result since different combinations are being experimented, but very concerned about the health of Reyna going forward. Any run the US puts together will be dependent on him being healthy.

[DaFunkyUnit]

looking at how the World Cup groups are set, if the US does manage to make it past the 32 team round (ie. overcoming Italy and the Czech Rep.), chances are we'll play against Brazil. its not an easy road. :pissed:

[VTGreg]

looking at how the World Cup groups are set, if the US does manage to make it past the 32 team round (ie. overcoming Italy and the Czech Rep.), chances are we'll play against Brazil. its not an easy road. :pissed:

Unless they were able to win the group that is the likely matchup in the round of 16.

[MikeD]

Well last night was not a good night for the US national team. I'm less worried about the result since different combinations are being experimented, but very concerned about the health of Reyna going forward. Any run the US puts together will be dependent on him being healthy.

The injury didn't appear *too* serious, but with leg injuries it's obvious a different game. Hopefully things will turn out fine...

[VTGreg]

The injury didn't appear *too* serious, but with leg injuries it's obvious a different game. Hopefully things will turn out fine...

Yeah, I read an article today that said Reyna was cautiously optimistic that the injury wasn't bad and he thought he would be good to go.

The bad thing about injured hamstrings is that they typically take a long time to heal and have a tendency to be reinjured very easily.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

[Grubbie]

soccer suks!


What is the point of your thread crapping post? Good for you that you don't like the most popular sport in the world.

[baggio248]

soccer suks!

:lmfao: Suks like you're reading comprehension and spelling.

Anyway, back to the topic. Reyna's injury hopefully won't keep him out of it. I've been watching him play since I was a kid, and it would be great to see him play in his 3rd WC?

If he can't go, can they still replace him due to a medical condition?

[VTGreg]

:lmfao: Suks like you're reading comprehension and spelling.

Anyway, back to the topic. Reyna's injury hopefully won't keep him out of it. I've been watching him play since I was a kid, and it would be great to see him play in his 3rd WC?

If he can't go, can they still replace him due to a medical condition?

Yes, they can still replace him if he is injured. It sounds like that won't be necessary though, the results of his MRI were very positive. He won't play in the final 2 friendlies, but he is confident he will be good to go come June 12.

[VTGreg]

World Cup starts tomorrow with Germany v Costa Rica and Poland v Ecuador.

A funny side note: Greg Anthony was previewing the NBA last night on sportscenter and made the comment that this is a great time for the NBA because the whole world would be watching.

Unfortunately for the NBA, no one outside of the US will be watching because the NBA takes a back seat to the world cup everywhere but in the US.

[baggio248]

Anyone interested in some fantasy soccer on Yahoo? You can pick up to 23 players, and only 3 per team. No salary cap or anything. Just for fun. There's also 2 on foxsports, one with a salary cap, and one that is just pick em. I'll set them up if we get enough people interested.

[Butch]

Can't wait until it starts tomorrow, but I'm actually going to NOT be in Germany . . . bah . . . going to be in London, and have a meeting that runs into the opening match - what damn dunce scheduled that??

Cool thing is that I'll be in London during the first England game on Saturday - will be really fun to watch it from there!

Then have tix to games on Monday & Tuesday . . . can't wait . . . things are really getting interesting . . . Germany is going to be one big damn party . . . heh

[VTGreg]

Anyone interested in some fantasy soccer on Yahoo? You can pick up to 23 players, and only 3 per team. No salary cap or anything. Just for fun. There's also 2 on foxsports, one with a salary cap, and one that is just pick em. I'll set them up if we get enough people interested.

If you set it up, I'll play.

[baggio248]

If you set it up, I'll play.

Ok, I set up Fantasy Soccer on Yahoo. Anyone else interested PM me. Obviously we should try and get the league together by tonight. Sorry for such short notice, I just signed up for them yesterday.

[MikeD]

Unfortunately for the NBA, no one outside of the US will be watching because the NBA takes a back seat to the world cup everywhere but in the US.

Actually, maybe in the US as well. And if it doesn't now, it probably will within the next 8-12 years.

The only thing saving the NBA this year are some great games. A rarity to see this many, but there have been some good ones. Couple that with two first-timers in the Finals, and it will probably hold viewers.

[VTGreg]

Pretty interesting first day. Germany looked great while attacking but very shaky in their third. Ecuador made Poland look very average in a mild upset. Tomorrow should be good with the day kicking off with England v. Paraguay.

[bachviet]

Germany defense looked weak but its offense looked good against Costa Rica. However I don't think Germany is going to have a chance against good teams like Brazil, England, Argentina, Holland, and etc.

[VTGreg]

Germany defense looked weak but its offense looked good against Costa Rica. However I don't think Germany is going to have a chance against good teams like Brazil, England, Argentina, Holland, and etc.

England did not look impressive today. They were only able to generate one goal on a Paraguay own goal. They had their moments but were fortunate to escape with the win.

[tupacboy]

well.. USA lost... which is ok... they're still better then the remaining teams in their division... but we needed to win the division... because runner up basically has to play brazil in the next round...(assuming brazil wins thier division)

[shaggyucla]

Go OZ! Brazil is next

[VTGreg]

well.. USA lost... which is ok... they're still better then the remaining teams in their division... but we needed to win the division... because runner up basically has to play brazil in the next round...(assuming brazil wins thier division)

Ummm... Italy? Not only did the USA lose today, they didn't bother showing up. They were completely outclassed most of the match and at times looked like they didn't want to be out there. This loss definitely doesn't end their world cup, but if they put forth the same effort against Italy and Ghana, they will leave Germany embarrassed.

I was very disappointed in their performance today.

[ryan_self]

Ummm... Italy? Not only did the USA lose today, they didn't bother showing up. They were completely outclassed most of the match and at times looked like they didn't want to be out there. This loss definitely doesn't end their world cup, but if they put forth the same effort against Italy and Ghana, they will leave Germany embarrassed.

I was very disappointed in their performance today.


Dude, honestly, who cares. We might pretend to get excited for one game, but at the end of the day, for better or for worse, the USA just doesn't give a damn about soccer. It's not an indictment of soccer, it's just a fact.

[VTGreg]

Dude, honestly, who cares. We might pretend to get excited for one game, but at the end of the day, for better or for worse, the USA just doesn't give a damn about soccer. It's not an indictment of soccer, it's just a fact.

Obviously you don't care, but that doesn't mean that they aren't many out there that do care. It's fine if you don't grasp the nature of the world cup or soccer, but if that is the case then don't waste your time or the time of those that do care about the world cup.

Soccer is slowly growing in popularity and the national team continues to improve as more and more youth stick with it, it's just a fact. Just look at where the national team was in 1990 vs today.

[MikeD]

Soccer is slowly growing in popularity and the national team continues to improve as more and more youth stick with it, it's just a fact. Just look at where the national team was in 1990 vs today.

:agree:

And look at youth sports today, too. The soccer fields are FULL of kids on any given Saturday; youth soccer leagues are booming. Often times it's the first sports that kids are eligible to play (4 years old), and many kids stick with it. VT is right, look at the changes of the past 20 years. Forecast out 20 from now, and soccer is going to be a very popular sport.

Will it ever overtake the NFL? Nah, not here in the States. But it could become more popular than other sports, especially with the younger generation.

[Butch]

:agree:

And look at youth sports today, too. The soccer fields are FULL of kids on any given Saturday; youth soccer leagues are booming. Often times it's the first sports that kids are eligible to play (4 years old), and many kids stick with it. VT is right, look at the changes of the past 20 years. Forecast out 20 from now, and soccer is going to be a very popular sport.

Will it ever overtake the NFL? Nah, not here in the States. But it could become more popular than other sports, especially with the younger generation.

Exactly - I think I read somewhere that a youth nowadays is as likely to join youth soccer as they are to join little league. When I was growing up, it was a no-brainer - little league.

Also, just think back to the election in 1996 and 2000 . . . who was it being courted? Soccer Moms . . . they were the big demographic . . . think that's just a coincidence?

Project out a little ways, and soccer will grow tremendously in popularity in the US.

By the way, I just got back from the game - and while it was great to be at a World Cup game, and the tix were great (first row of the balcony in the corner), the US just plain SUCKED . . . I'm not a huge soccer fan, but it was so clear they were just waiting for stuff to happen - never works in sports.

Oh well, I love the Czech Republic after doing my study-abroad there, so I can always root for them and I don't mind losing to them . . . but damn I wish it had been a better game.

Sold my tix for Korea vs. Togo tomorrow - too much work to do, and it looks like the game is just going to be a mess - though I would love to be proven wrong.

Was in London for the first game and watched England's win from a pub there . . . tons of fun . . . and got caught up in an impromptu celebration in Trafalgar Square before the police broke it up . . . have some photos I'll try to post later.

Can't wait to get to a couple more games next week!

[speedracer120]

Dude, honestly, who cares. We might pretend to get excited for one game, but at the end of the day, for better or for worse, the USA just doesn't give a damn about soccer. It's not an indictment of soccer, it's just a fact.

Tell that to the grown men at the bar I was at tonight who were damn near tears.

[VTGreg]

Kepping this thread on track, it sounds like Arena didn't mince words after tonight's performance.


GELSENKIRCHEN, June 12 (Reuters) - U.S. coach Bruce Arena ripped into his players after they were thrashed on the pitch by the Czech Republic on Monday and singled out his key player Landon Donovan for an especially harsh public tongue-lashing.

Jan Koller celebrates his goal for the Czech Republic against the U.S.

'Landon showed no aggressiveness,' Arena told a news conference after his team's 3-0 defeat in their World Cup Group E opening match.

'I am very disappointed by the performance of our players over 90 minutes. But give the Czechs credit. They punished us every chance they got.'

Arena had been eager to prove the Americans could beat a top team on European soil after eight years of losses to the continent's elite but he saw those hopes destroyed after unmarked Jan Koller scored five minutes into the match.

'We certainly had a very poor start to the game - to put yourself down a goal after five minutes to a team like the Czech Republic,' he said. 'We were behind the eight-ball from the start.'

Arena blamed his veteran goalkeeper Kasey Keller for 'putting the ball upfield where we have nobody' at the start of the sequence that led to the first goal.

The Czechs then raced back towards Keller, with defender Zdenek Grygera lofting a fine cross to Koller.

'Grygera has an uncontested crossing and Koller is in front of the goal to knock it in,' said Arena. 'It's very disappointing. I can't explain why those things happen.'

Arena also singled out PSV Eindhoven midfielder DaMarcus Beasley - alongside Donovan one of his most important players - for strong criticism.

'We got nothing out of Beasley on the night,' Arena said.

'Not enough players took the initiative. We didn't get too many good performances.'

Although known for his generally blunt style, Arena was in top form as he rattled off his team's failings with refreshing candor.

'A number of players played poorly,' he said. 'Aside from giving up the early goal, second balls were a big part of the game and they won more than their fair share.'

The U.S. next face Italy on June 17 in Kaiserslautern and Ghana on June 22.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=370928&cc=5901

I'm glad to hear that Arena let them have it after that performance. Maybe it will light a fire and they can come out strong against the Azurri.

[DaFunkyUnit]

with Italy beating Ghana, the chance of USA advancing now is very, very, very slim.

[ray]

I played soccer for 11 years and indoor soccer for 4 years. It is definitely a growing sport in the US, but I highly doubt it would ever overcome the popularity of baseball and football.

Personally, I enjoy watching football and basketball the most. But if I had to choose between watching soccer, baseball, tennis, or golf I would definitely pick soccer.

In regards to the US' chance of making it to the 2nd round, it will be very difficult with both Italy and Czech earning 3 points already and the US and Ghana at 0 points.

[baseballbob]

Tell that to the grown men at the bar I was at tonight who were damn near tears.
:stupid: yes-it seems to be popular for 15min of fame-then nothing:cheers:

[Grubbie]

In regards to the US' chance of making it to the 2nd round, it will be very difficult with both Italy and Czech earning 3 points already and the US and Ghana at 0 points.

If they make it out of there group(most likely by winning the next two games) they will be a force to be reckon with. In the case that they win 2 games they get to go up against Brazil in the round of 16. To go further into how the US must go on is very bleak to look at, they have to win both games and they could still not go on. Most likely 2 wins and they go on. For them to go on with a win and a tie they have to beat italy and have Chezh win out. If that happens the US has 4 points, Czech with 9 points, Italy with 3 points and Ghana with 0(If Czech loses to Ghana we gotta beat them, or win in GD which will be hard).

The problem with Soccer in the US is the youth development program aren't meant for the best soccer players. It is all political and normally the wealthier kids go further in ODP.

Another major problem with soccer in the US is that the best athletes don't play soccer here. Just think how good the US team would be if they had the best athletes who grew up playing soccer. A physical freak like Lebron James would be unreal in soccer.

[bachviet]

The US chance to advance to the 2nd round is very slim. The US really has to attack Italy to get a win, which will play into Italy advantage (defense and counter attack). BTW the US is not a better team than Italy even though the FIFA ranking says so. I'm going to miss my favorite team playing tomorrow. The Brazil vs. Croatia game is going to be good also.

[VTGreg]

Yes, it will be a very tough road for the US to advance to the knock-out stage. They will likely need to win both games to advance and beating Italy in Europe is not a task to be taken lightly.

One good thing is that the game is in Kaiserslauten (sp?), which is nearby the US military base. This means that there should be a good contingent of US fans to cheer them on as they take on an Azurri team that will be heavily favored.

The US will need to throw caution to the wayside and attack, which will definitely play into Italy's style of play. However, the US has nothing to lose now and will hopefully play with a sense of purpose.

[Butch]

Huh . . . Togo's up 1-0 at the half! I'm going to be disappointed if I gave up tix to see a Togo upset! However, I'm not really disappointed I'm not in the stadium right now . . . to make it easier to watch on TV, they shut the roof to get rid of shadows . . . gotta be like an oven in there now (no AC)!

[Grubbie]

Huh . . . Togo's up 1-0 at the half! I'm going to be disappointed if I gave up tix to see a Togo upset! However, I'm not really disappointed I'm not in the stadium right now . . . to make it easier to watch on TV, they shut the roof to get rid of shadows . . . gotta be like an oven in there now (no AC)!

Game is turning into a blowout for Korea. The double yellow killed Toga soooo bad.

Great game, it is becoming as exciting as the Aussie game yesterday. There have been some great early morning games.

[ShawnLee]

Togo put up a great game, sucks that they had to lose it on fouls. Oh well. Fun to watch certainly.

[kimchicowboy]

go team korea!

<---- jumping on the korea bandwagon

[tupacboy]

wow... brazil didn't look that sharp to me... they looked good... but not great... croatia gave them a run for their money.... KOREA finally decided to play in the 2nd half :) ... i'm rooting for 3 teams... korea, usa, and germany... because i'm korean/german mixed living in the usa! 2 wins... 1 loss... not bad

[baggio248]

Brazil did not look sharp at all. They played really sloppy defense and allowed Croatia to get between the defenders. They also stood around waiting for the ball instead of going after it, and Crotia just stepped in between and took the ball away. They'll have to step it up.

On another note, i've been reading the articles about Ronaldo and being "fat". He denies any of it, but really, did anyone see him run at all? He didn't move, or chase down any balls. When he did run he was beat to the ball by 5 steps. I was waiting for his sub out. He wiped the sweat from his head as if he did anything. I'm dissapointed in him. I hope he doesn't start the next game.

[AlwayzMarel]

I was in Rosarito, Mexico this past weekend when Mexico beat Iran. Talk about a hell of a time I had, people had parades in the streets and were so patriotic that their country team won. Why don't we see any of that for the US here, the only time people get patriotic is for the Olympics!

[bachviet]

My favorite team played like crap today. Hopefully they are going to pick up their game this Saturday against Korea. :D

[Kevster]

I was shocked at how Brazil looked today. Croatia definitely gave them a run for their money.

[Grubbie]

Eh, I watched the Brazil game and they played the Brazil way. They don't play defense and can get beat by couterattacks and offensive strikes. I thought they played well and could of easily scored a couple more goals.

[kimchicowboy]

My favorite team played like crap today. Hopefully they are going to pick up their game this Saturday against Korea. :D
oh yeah? :boxing: hehehe

[guiseppewv]

:agree:

And look at youth sports today, too. The soccer fields are FULL of kids on any given Saturday; youth soccer leagues are booming. Often times it's the first sports that kids are eligible to play (4 years old), and many kids stick with it. VT is right, look at the changes of the past 20 years. Forecast out 20 from now, and soccer is going to be a very popular sport.

Will it ever overtake the NFL? Nah, not here in the States. But it could become more popular than other sports, especially with the younger generation.

:stupid:

I started playing soccer when I was 6. We had to play on fields that were meant for football or were sandwiched btwn 2 little league fields. We also could not get real soccer cleats and we played with balls that we nicknamed "Mitre Bricks." Now there are dedicated soccer fields, good soccer equipment that is readily available to all, and plenty of coaches who actually played soccer when they were young. People always said that soccer would never get bigger in the US but it has. Now naysayers say that soccer will never be a major sport in the US but I think that time is right around the corner. It will probably never overtake football but it will be a major sport in the US.

[baseballbob]

it is amazing how many KIDS play soccer-but NOBODY watches it

[gear02]

it is amazing how many KIDS play soccer-but NOBODY watches it

That's because the MLS isn't that great and no one knows that many players. Look at NASCAR. At one point it was a niche sport. Then as more and more people started to be exposed to some of the drivers and learn who they are it exploded.

I think it will happen with soccer, but it will take a long, long time.

Back to the WC, did anyone see the Germany Poland game? That was an INSANE ending. In the last 10 minutes Poland was down 1 man and were seriously on the defensive. Germany had like 6-7 great scoring chances but the goalie made some great saves or the ball hit the frame. In injury time they finally score to win 1-0.

Absolutely crazy. I love World Cup Soccer.

[tupacboy]

germany's game was awsome.... spain look REALLY sharp this morning though... if they play like that all WC... they'll be tough to beat...

[Butch]

That's because the MLS isn't that great and no one knows that many players. Look at NASCAR. At one point it was a niche sport. Then as more and more people started to be exposed to some of the drivers and learn who they are it exploded.

I think it will happen with soccer, but it will take a long, long time.

Back to the WC, did anyone see the Germany Poland game? That was an INSANE ending. In the last 10 minutes Poland was down 1 man and were seriously on the defensive. Germany had like 6-7 great scoring chances but the goalie made some great saves or the ball hit the frame. In injury time they finally score to win 1-0.

Absolutely crazy. I love World Cup Soccer.

Last night was awesome here . . . place was one big damn party . . . watched the game from a bar - couldn't get into the viewing area on the river - 30,000 people there already.

After the game, the area around the river was PACKED with people until police cleared it out around 2AM . . . tons of fun . . . and glad it pretty much means Germany will make it through to the next round . . . the longer Germany is in the tourney, the more fun it will be out here!

[VTGreg]

it is amazing how many KIDS play soccer-but NOBODY watches it

The same could be said for golf, which is a very popular sport. However, I doubt you will see executives discussing business during a soccer match anytime soon.

[guiseppewv]

The same could be said for golf, which is a very popular sport. However, I doubt you will see executives discussing business during a soccer match anytime soon.


Especially if they are playing in the match. :P

[ArkiStan]

WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm a little late but the Korea game was amazing. Talk about a comeback. What's more scary than crazy fans? Organized crazy fans with a plan. Now that's what I call chearing. You really had to be there to feel it. I'm visiting Berlin right now and I'll be traveling to Budapest and Prague until my next match against Switzerland in a week or so. I've got tickets to both of our groups best 16 matches as well. I hope Korea makes it. Otherwise we'll be scalping them, which will probably cover the cost for my roundtrip plane tickets. ;)

Every city in Germany is a large scale party right now. People from every corner of the world screaming, whistling singing and jumping around from the break of dawn to late at night. What a scene. I'll try to post some pics when I get back to the states.

[baggio248]

Presented by L.A. Galaxy, AEG & Korean World Cup Supporters Committee

World Cup Viewing Party - South Korea v. France

Staples Center
Date: 6/18/06 12:00 PM
Doors Open: 11:00 AM

Get a look at the international action of the World Cup. Admission is free!

Ticket Distribution
Friday, June 9 @ 10am at STAPLES Center and Home Depot Center's box offices. Tickets will NOT be distributed through TicketMaster phones, outlets or internet. Four (4) ticket limit per person.

[Butch]

Conditional Ticket program came through!

.......

We are delighted to inform you that within the Conditional ticket programme for
the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany (TM) you have been allocated 2 single tickets
for the following match:

Match #25: Italy - USA, Kaiserslautern, 17.06.2006

The tickets allocated have the following price category cat. 2 and price 65,00
EUR per ticket.

Looks like I'm heading to Kaiserslautern tomorrow . . . happily, it's just a short trip and pretty much on the way to Munich . . . my next destination!

[VTGreg]

Conditional Ticket program came through!

.......

We are delighted to inform you that within the Conditional ticket programme for
the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany (TM) you have been allocated 2 single tickets
for the following match:

Match #25: Italy - USA, Kaiserslautern, 17.06.2006

The tickets allocated have the following price category cat. 2 and price 65,00
EUR per ticket.

Looks like I'm heading to Kaiserslautern tomorrow . . . happily, it's just a short trip and pretty much on the way to Munich . . . my next destination!


Nice, hopefully you get to see a competitive match. Unfortunately, because the US has to win this game, the US could play much better than they did against Czech Repbulic and still end up will a similar result. The attacking nature they will be forced to play with will play right into Italy's counterattack tactics.

[VTGreg]

Just saw one of the greatest team goals ever. Argentina's second goal against Serbia and Montenegro was unbelievable. An absolutely great build followed by a few deft touches and a solid finish.

Argentina is looking very good.

[bachviet]

Argentina looked very good today. Scored 6 goals against Serbia. :eek:

[tupacboy]

i think out of the teams i've watched... argentina and spain look really SHARP!!!

[baseballbob]

ghana whooping checks 2-0

[VTGreg]

FIFA should send the official of the US v Italy match home at half time. Why wait until after the game. This guy has been incredibly quick with the cards and has pretty much dictated the game so far.

The first red was a bit harsh but somewhat deserved with the intentional and very violent elbow. The second red to Mastroeni was completely out of line. That foul deserved a yellow but is unbelievable.

It will be an interesting second half.

[VTGreg]

Too late. FIFA decided to let him come back out for the second half and he has already f-ed up again.

UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!

[cheapie]

this ref is terrible! the red and yellow against the US were questionable at best. the dude falls on the ground like he's been shot. of course 30 seconds after he's carted off he's back and running. i know europeans are used to that but to americans that just make us dislike the sport even more when we see it. there was a recent foul call that after review showed no contact at all. of course this was after the ref called for the gurney. :rolleyes:

[VTGreg]

this ref is terrible! the red and yellow against the US were questionable at best. the dude falls on the ground like he's been shot. of course 30 seconds after he's carted off he's back and running. i know europeans are used to that but to americans that just make us dislike the sport even more when we see it. there was a recent foul call that after review showed no contact at all. of course this was after the ref called for the gurney. :rolleyes:

I can't believe Arena didn't take Pope out after Mastroeni was sent off. He already had a yellow and didn't play well the entire time he was on the field. He failed to mark his man on Italy's goal.

I'm also incredibly suprised that Arena didn't use his last substitution considering they were playing with 9 men the entire second half. Eddie Johnson could have made a difference coupled with Beasley running at a tired Italian defense.

[cheapie]

beasley did nada. didn't really attack or force the issue. he kept dropping it off. and who didn't see that dude taking it away from him on one of his first runs. dude...you GOTTA make a move!!!

[VTGreg]

beasley did nada. didn't really attack or force the issue. he kept dropping it off. and who didn't see that dude taking it away from him on one of his first runs. dude...you GOTTA make a move!!!

Beasley wasn't great but he did a decent job. The US was making sure they were staying behind the ball since they were down a man and Beasley did score the goal that was disallowed due to offsides.

I hope Dempsey gets the start again next game. I also hope they put someone out there besides Convey. He hasn't done a whole lot in either of the games. Look for Eddie Lewis or Josh Wolfe to get the start. Also, with Mastroeni being unavailable against Ghana
John O'Brien should be inserted into the starting lineup. Hopefully he is fully fit and can play a full 90.

[Showtime]

So I am supposed to cheer for a tied game?

NBA finals game 5 tomorrow if you want to watch some real sports.

[VTGreg]

If you watched the game and understood soccer you would be cheering.

Picture the Mavs beating the Heat while playing 4 against 5 for the entire second half.

[MikeD]

If you watched the game and understood soccer you would be cheering.

Picture the Mavs beating the Heat while playing 4 against 5 for the entire second half.

He only understands the Lakers winning, whether it's reality or not (most often not). ;)

Great effort by the U.S. And who would have thought it possible? They are in great position to move on after Ghana's win yesterday...

[bachviet]

If the US wants to advance, they have to win big the next game. If Ghana plays like they did yesterday, it's a tough task.

Anyway I can't wait to watch my favorite team playing for the first time later today. :woohoo:

[VTGreg]

If the US wants to advance, they have to win big the next game. If Ghana plays like they did yesterday, it's a tough task.

Anyway I can't wait to watch my favorite team playing for the first time later today. :woohoo:

Hopefully Italy will take care of business against a Czech Republic team that will be very shorthanded and the US won't have to beat Ghana by 5 goals.

The red cards to Pope and Mastroeni may end up helping the US in the long run. This should allow O'brien to get on the field. Not sure what they will do to replace Pope at Central defense, but IMO he has been a liability through the first two games. He was beat for Italy's only goal and was beat for the opening goal against the Czech Republic.

Ghana should be a tough match, but they will be without both of their starting strikers. There was a question about it before, but I think Group E is, without a doubt, the group of death.

[bachviet]

The ref sucked in the France vs. Korea game. It was a definitely goal but I guess the ref didn't see it. My France team needs to be Togo by 2 goals to advance.

Italy only needs a tie to advance so I don't know how hard will they play.

[VTGreg]

The ref sucked in the France vs. Korea game. It was a definitely goal but I guess the ref didn't see it. My France team needs to be Togo by 2 goals to advance.

Italy only needs a tie to advance so I don't know how hard will they play.

Yes, that was definitely a goal for France. Unfortunately, unless the ref was directly on top of the play there was no way to tell if the ball was completely over the line. The ref's assistant didn't have a view of the ball because of how the goalkeeper was positioned.

That ended up being one of the best games I've seen so far. The crowd was unbelievable. The Koreans have become the darlings of the soccer world after their result in the 2002 world cup.

[baseballbob]

ghana 2-usa 1----usa out

[MikeD]

ghana 2-usa 1----usa out

:sad:

Hate to see the US get bounced, but they simply didn't play well enough to move on.

What kind of changes do they need to make? Personnel? Coaching? Both?

Hopefully they'll be stronger in '10.

[cheapie]

:stupid: i guess we can't be good at everything but it still stings.

[Memo]

Pwnt!

[guiseppewv]

I think there needs to be a coaching change. After the drubbing in our first game one of the coaches said "I don't think we were ill prepared, actually I think we were overly prepared." :rolleyes: Whatever!!! Make some heads roll on the coaching staff. Then start to weed out some of the players who just didn't come to play.

[VTGreg]

I don't agree with Arena waiting so long to really get the team attacking against Ghana, but I don't think a coaching change needs to be made.

This was the toughest group in the world cup and the US was not favored to advance before Ghana suprised everyone. Czech Republic was ranked #2 in the world, a ranking that was considered realistic as opposed to the US' #6 ranking, and they too will be going home before the knock-out stage.

The US did not play their best soccer at times and that is disappointing. However, the US continues to improve at soccer vs the world and hopefully will improve their result in the next world cup.

[VTGreg]

One other thing with regards to making changes on the team. This team obviously did not have a very good result in this world cup. However, they had some very controversial calls go against them, which led to the result. Ghana got a very gracious PK today in stoppage time of the first half and then there is the card fiasco from the Italy game.

If the US gets a break in either of those games instead of having the breaks go against them, who knows what would have happened.

I must say that going back through the last 4 world cup games the US has played in, they have had some really poor calls or non-calls go against them.

1) There was the hand ball that wasn't called against Germany in the 02 world cup

2) The red cards for Mastroeni and Pope (both of these players are at fault for putting themselves in these positions, but the calls were still questionable) in the Italy game

3) The PK for Ghana today.

I can understand a call or two going against a team, but this is becoming too consistent of an occurence in my opinion.

[bachviet]

The US didn't play a good game today but the PK call was just ridiculuous. The US needs to find a more offensive minded coach if we want to advance further in the WC. Playing 4-5-1 formation against the best of the world is not going to cut it. We can't just count on counter attacks to get goals. Brazil showed the world today how this game supposes to be played.

[Grubbie]

Arena is gone....

The US also needs to heavily recruit the dual nationality players. They need to get Adu playing for them before he switches to Ghana and also get Giuseppe Rossi to come play for the US instead of Italy.

Along with that, getting fresh hungry faces onto the world cup team and retiring the old guard will be in order(Started today with Reyna retiring).

[VTGreg]

I hope Adu will be able to live up to the hype, but he still a long ways away from being physically mature enough to play at the international level. The US is a large enough country that we shouldn't need to rely on dual nationality players.

Unfortunately, the players that are supposed to replace the old guard didn't perform up to par this world cup. Donovan and Beasley, two players who were supposed to be the stars of the future didn't have very good world cups and John O'Brien only played a half in the first game.

The US needs more players like Dempsey, but the US youth system doesn't churn out many players like that.

[DaFunkyUnit]

and this years World Cup theme is Europe vs South America.

oh wait, thats pretty much every World Cup.

btw, France vs Spain... who wouldve thought?

[bachviet]

:woohoo:

My team is in and they will beat Spain on Tuesday. :D

[ArkiStan]

Well that's it for Korea. The ref's questionable call, or lack of, was a pity, but it's true we've benefited several times from questionable calls in the past so I can't complain too much. Even though it was obvious we still have a lot to work on, especially our defense, it was by far the best game Korea played in this tournament. I'm proud of our players.

It will be an unforgettable experience seeing the world cup first-hand amongst a truly international croud in several international cities. Can't wait to see some more action in South Africa. Farewell. I'm heading back home in a couple days. Boy will NYC seem dull after this.

[VTGreg]

Well that's it for Korea. The ref's questionable call, or lack of, was a pity, but it's true we've benefited several times from questionable calls in the past so I can't complain too much. Even though it was obvious we still have a lot to work on, especially our defense, it was by far the best game Korea played in this tournament. I'm proud of our players.

It will be an unforgettable experience seeing the world cup first-hand amongst a truly international croud in several international cities. Can't wait to see some more action in South Africa. Farewell. I'm heading back home in a couple days. Boy will NYC seem dull after this.

I really enjoy watching Korea play. They are an up and comer in the international game.

I did think the ref made the right call on that play. When the ball was originally played by Switzerland, the man was on side. Then the ball deflected off the Korean player and the linesman put his flag up, not realizing a Korean player had played the ball, because the Swiss player was in an offside position. At that point, a number of players on both teams stopped playing, but the man with the ball finished the goal. Definitely reinforces the point that you have to keep playing until you hear a whistle.

[baseballbob]

[QUOTE=VTGreg]I hope Adu will be able to live up to the hype, but he still a long ways away from being physically mature enough to play at the international level.
As good as ADU is-I hear that his size will prohibit him becoming an international-quality player:rolleyes:

[Markel]

I watched the Argentina - Mexico game today. Argentina's second goal was a world-class score. Absolutely beautiful.

[gear02]

Absolutely. That shot was amazing.

But after watching Argentina vs. Mexico, two incredible teams, I've come to the uninformed conclusion that the US is just as talented physically as these two teams. However, Argentina and Mexico are infinately more creative than USA and I think that's the major difference. These two teams can get shots on goal in more ways than I can count, whereas it seemed in our games we didn't know what to do with the ball.

There were some give and gos that the two young argentine forwards pulled off that were just amazing.

[bachviet]

US strikers are affraid to take shots at the goal. They try to aim before taking shots instead of just bombing it. US players don't have the skills to keep the ball for a long time thus depending on counter attacks and long passes. The South American teams are famous for making short passes between 2-3 players and it's pretty to watch.

The Portugal vs. Netherlands match tomorrow is going to be a classic. The Netherlands want to revenge its loss to Portugal in Euro 2004. I'm surprised that Netherlands is the favorite in this game even though it's my dark horse to win this tournament.

[VTGreg]

US strikers are affraid to take shots at the goal. They try to aim before taking shots instead of just bombing it. US players don't have the skills to keep the ball for a long time thus depending on counter attacks and long passes. The South American teams are famous for making short passes between 2-3 players and it's pretty to watch.

The Portugal vs. Netherlands match tomorrow is going to be a classic. The Netherlands want to revenge its loss to Portugal in Euro 2004. I'm surprised that Netherlands is the favorite in this game even though it's my dark horse to win this tournament.

I cannot wait for this game. Should be a classic.

The US players may have the technical skills that many other countries possess but they do not have the creativity that is so important at this level. Clint Dempsey possesses some of these skills and it was evident because he was the best player on the field for much of the final 2 games the US played.

The breakdown of US talent as I see it is the top level talent of the best countries is higher than the US, the mid level talent of the US is on par with the mid level talent of the other countries and the talent of the lesser players from the US is higher than that of other countries.

The US needs to develop some superstars to take their play to the next level.

[baseballbob]

I watched the Argentina - Mexico game today. Argentina's second goal was a world-class score. Absolutely beautiful.
Yes it was sweet:gle:

[MikeD]

Bend it like Beckham.

Sweet or what? :)

[Butch]

Back from my little World Cup tour . . . watching the Netherlands vs. Portugal game now . . . crazy!

Was in Berlin yesterday and watched the Germany vs. Sweden game from in front of Brandenburg Gate - so much fun! Big party! heh

[bachviet]

That has to be the worse football match I have ever watched. The ref lost control of the game and just gave out yellow cards like candies. :eek: Players from both team played dirty (diving, fouling, time wasting, and etc). However Portugal played a better game and had better individual skills thus deserved the win. Too bad the ref gave England an advantage by giving out 2 red cards to Deco & Costinha and others yellow cards.

[speedracer120]

bachviet, that game was Portugal v. Netherlands. I think Portugal played the dirtier game, but that's just my perception. Figo got hit in the chin and grabbed his eyes like he'd been given a real hard knock. Very reminiscent of Rivaldo's ploy. DIRTY.

[Butch]

bachviet, that game was Portugal v. Netherlands. I think Portugal played the dirtier game, but that's just my perception. Figo got hit in the chin and grabbed his eyes like he'd been given a real hard knock. Very reminiscent of Rivaldo's ploy. DIRTY.

I think he was referring to the advantage England (Portugal's opponent in the Quarters) will have next game due to the ineligibilities and risk (via the yellows).

[speedracer120]

Mea culpa. That's what I get for reading threads late at night.

[baggio248]

That was by far the worst game i've seen. Between the 16 yellows, four reds, and unsportsmanlike conduct....it was terrible. Some of those were just stupid! :disa: The ref had no control of that game, the players dictated the game. Decco's second yellow was so stupid on his part. He should have put the ball down and get back in position. I'm dissapointed in the refs, and both teams. I wonder if FIFA will deem the cards all justified because of the ratios. Terrible game!!

[VTGreg]

That was by far the worst game i've seen. Between the 16 yellows, four reds, and unsportsmanlike conduct....it was terrible. Some of those were just stupid! :disa: The ref had no control of that game, the players dictated the game. Decco's second yellow was so stupid on his part. He should have put the ball down and get back in position. I'm dissapointed in the refs, and both teams. I wonder if FIFA will deem the cards all justified because of the ratios. Terrible game!!

I agree. I must say, the officiating since the first two or three days of the World Cup has been atrocious. Incredibly inconsistent and as many have said, way too many cards.

I think the officiating lends itself towards games like yesterday's match. It is so frustrating to play when an official conducts himself like that and that typically spills over into the play.

FIFA needs to take a proactive approach on how to fix the problems that have been so prevalent in this World Cup. They should:

1) Make sure that every foul doesn't get a card. I would say that well over 50% of the cards in the tournament so far have not warranted cards.

2) If the official stops play for a player injury, that player must remain off the field for a set amount of time (3 min, 5 min, whatever). This will cut down on all of the antics at the end of games to waste time.

3) Tape should be reviewed after every game and players should be awarded some sort of penalty for taking dives. It is very difficult for an official to book players for taking dives because the official wants to be 100% sure that it was a dive. It doesn't have to be cards but some sort of system that says, we reviewed your match and you dove 6 times. If you dive 4 more times in any of your remaining games, you will be suspended for a game.

I realize that #3 is a bit over the top, but it does get very frustrating to watch these games and to see players going down with little or no contact. Something really needs to be done to clean the game up in this regard. You could either use #3 or you could have the referrees err on the side of booking players for dives.

[guiseppewv]

I agree. I must say, the officiating since the first two or three days of the World Cup has been atrocious. Incredibly inconsistent and as many have said, way too many cards.

I think the officiating lends itself towards games like yesterday's match. It is so frustrating to play when an official conducts himself like that and that typically spills over into the play.

FIFA needs to take a proactive approach on how to fix the problems that have been so prevalent in this World Cup. They should:

1) Make sure that every foul doesn't get a card. I would say that well over 50% of the cards in the tournament so far have not warranted cards.

2) If the official stops play for a player injury, that player must remain off the field for a set amount of time (3 min, 5 min, whatever). This will cut down on all of the antics at the end of games to waste time.

3) Tape should be reviewed after every game and players should be awarded some sort of penalty for taking dives. It is very difficult for an official to book players for taking dives because the official wants to be 100% sure that it was a dive. It doesn't have to be cards but some sort of system that says, we reviewed your match and you dove 6 times. If you dive 4 more times in any of your remaining games, you will be suspended for a game.

I realize that #3 is a bit over the top, but it does get very frustrating to watch these games and to see players going down with little or no contact. Something really needs to be done to clean the game up in this regard. You could either use #3 or you could have the referrees err on the side of booking players for dives.

I def agree with #'s 1 & 2. #2 is ridiculous. I cannot believe people get away with that. If you have the ball play "keep away" to consume time but don't fall on the ground and fake injury - that is just pathetic.

[VTGreg]

BERLIN, June 26 (Reuters) - Germany coach Juergen Klinsmann said on Monday he was not interested in any other job, dousing speculation he might be the next United States coach.

'That doesn't interest me at all,' Klinsmann said when asked at a news conference in Berlin about his interest in coaching the U.S. team, who were eliminated at the group stage.

'At the moment, I'm only interested in my job and that has to continue to the final,' said Klinsmann, who has yet to say what his future plans are. His two-year contract with Germany expires after the World Cup.

Klinsmann, who has an American wife, has lived for years in California and cherishes his anonymous lifestyle there. He spent a few weeks working as an observer with the U.S. team several years before he took the Germany job in 2004.

'It's speculation,' said Klinsmann, 41. 'It's something completely normal that there is speculation about the coach in a country that gets knocked out.'

The U.S. were eliminated after losing 3-0 to Czech Republic and 2-1 to Ghana. They finished a disappointing last in Group E with one point from a 1-1 draw against Italy.

Former U.S. striker Eric Wynalda and many U.S. newspapers have said Klinsmann would be an ideal candidate to replace Bruce Arena, 54. Arena has not said what his future plans are. He has coached the U.S. team for the last eight years.

Klinsmann has faced German media criticism for his decision to live in the United States and commute on 11-hour flights several times a month.

His travelling time would be cut dramatically if he were to take the U.S. job - a short 45-minute drive from his home in Huntington Beach to the U.S. training centre in nearby Carson.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=372585&cc=5901

Interesting speculation in the wake of the US performance at this world cup and the ensuing discussion about whether or not Bruce Arena will be back as the MNT manager.

[Butch]

Geeze, how often do you see a goalie stop 3 out of 4 penalty shots?

I'm definitely rooting for Ukraine against Italy in the Quarters . . . even though they really haven't played terribly well . . . but gotta go for the underdog ;)

[shaggyucla]

Socceroos were robbed against italy... last second of injury time, Italy was awarded a penalty kick for a dive..... costing OZ the game, which dominated for most of it (because they were playing 11 on 10)

[bachviet]

Judging by the way Ukraine played today, they don't have a chance against Italy. Looked like an easy road to the semifinals for Italy. However either Germany or Argentina will beat them bad.

[gear02]

Socceroos were robbed against italy... last second of injury time, Italy was awarded a penalty kick for a dive..... costing OZ the game, which dominated for most of it (because they were playing 11 on 10)

How do you rid the problem of diving when you reward someone for acting by giving them the game in the round of 16 of the World Cup?

That's awful. :puke:

[Memo]

And France looks like it's going to advance due to another ****ty call by a ref. That Frenchie went down holding his face eventhough it was never touched. The ref had been great all game about not calling cards for every foul too.

Edit:

Well, I guess I spoke too soon, Zizou put another one in for a decisive victory. :)

[Butch]

Allez Les Bleus! Allez Les Bleus!

Oh well, Brazil will likely wipe the floor with 'em on Saturday . . . but still nice to get past Spain.

[VTGreg]

And France looks like it's going to advance due to another ****ty call by a ref. That Frenchie went down holding his face eventhough it was never touched. The ref had been great all game about not calling cards for every foul too.

Edit:

Well, I guess I spoke too soon, Zizou put another one in for a decisive victory. :)

I've got to say, if there is a team, other than the US, that deserves to get a call after the way the group stages went, it's France.

I wouldn't be so sure about Brazil mopping the floor with France. With the exception of the game against Japan, Brazil has looked unispiring at best. Should be an interesting matchup in the quarterfinals.

[Memo]

I've got to say, if there is a team, other than the US, that deserves to get a call after the way the group stages went, it's France.

I wouldn't be so sure about Brazil mopping the floor with France. With the exception of the game against Japan, Brazil has looked unispiring at best. Should be an interesting matchup in the quarterfinals.

Brazil may be over-hyped, but the only true uninspiring team of the World Cup was the USA.

[VTGreg]

Brazil may be over-hyped, but the only true uninspiring team of the World Cup was the USA.

I'll disagree but only to a certain degree. Yes, the USA did not perform as was expected, but they did get a result against perennial power Italy while playing down a man for an entire half.

That game was an inspiring performance in my opinion.

[bachviet]

My team is in the quarterfinals and they will have a good chance beating Brazil. :woohoo:

Brazil record vs. France in WC is 1-2. The two wins by France was in 1986 and 1998.

Spain has to be the biggest choker in the WC as a powerhouse. :disa:

[baggio248]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=372585&cc=5901

Interesting speculation in the wake of the US performance at this world cup and the ensuing discussion about whether or not Bruce Arena will be back as the MNT manager.

The adult league I used to play in, there were guysI knew who played with Klinsmann. He would show up to a soccer park in Arcadia and put on a clinic.

[speedracer120]

Since my teams are out, I love pulling for the under-dogs or whoever is hated by the majority of my friends. I'm feeling surly over their ousters.

[bachviet]

The best match during the quarterfinals is between GER and ARG. The second best will be between my team, FRA, and BRA. Too bad I'm stuck at work right now so I have to follow the game online. :cry:

[Butch]

The best match during the quarterfinals is between GER and ARG. The second best will be between my team, FRA, and BRA. Too bad I'm stuck at work right now so I have to follow the game online. :cry:

I'm watching from work right now . . . company set up a projection screen in the confrence room and has a couple kegs of beer . . . had to miss part of the first half to interview someone who flew in from Sweden . . . Germany is a ghost town right now unless there is a TV around . . . no TV = no people

[Jeffbx]

I know I'm late to the discussion, but I happened to be in Paris having dinner a few days ago when France beat Spain - you would have thought they won the world cup with that game. Traffic was stopped & people were partying in the streets. It was pretty cool to see.

[baseballbob]

that would have been cool to be there then

[gear02]

Random curiousity but when all of these international players are arguing with international referees, what language are they arguing in?

What's the language of soccer?

[ArkiStan]

damn. I missed some good games over the past few days.
anybody know where i can see match highlights on the internet for free (preferably with english commentary)?

[bachviet]

Go to www.fifaworldcup.com and watch the hightlights.

:woohoo: My team is in the semifinal. Zizou was putting on a skill/trick clinic today. He showed the world why he is consider the best midfielder in the last 10 years.

Hopefully on Wednesday, they are going to put on a good show (equally or better than today against BRA) and send the Portugeses home fishing. I'm afraid though that they are going to meet GER in the final because they seemed to always lose to GER in the WC.

[STREETFIGHTER]

And now the blame game begins in England.....
Yes, Rooney should have been more restrained, but lets face it we're only good enough for major quarter-finals...and that's it.

[baseballbob]

you just can't put your emotions on a highwire-restraint is absolutely necessary at this level

[baggio248]

He needs to show more disipline, and that's always been his problem. He is a great talent.


LONDON (AP) - Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo, criticized for his role in Wayne Rooney's sending off at the World Cup, won't be back at Manchester United and can expect payback from the star England striker in the future, according to a report.

Quoting an unnamed source, The Sun newspaper reported Monday that Rooney threatened to "split him in two" when the two next meet.

Ronaldo may be wearing a different uniform when that happens. The British tabloid says United will show Ronaldo the door "because of his World Cup shame."

Ronaldo, who has spoken of moving to Real Madrid, infuriated England players for his actions in United teammate Rooney's ejection Saturday. After Rooney stamped on defender Ricardo Carvalho's groin, Ronaldo rushed to the Argentina referee to complain. When Rooney was shown the red card, moments after shoving Ronaldo, cameras caught Ronaldo winking - apparently at the Portugal bench.

Citing a top Football Association source, The Sun reported Rooney's rant came one day after the penalty shootout loss to Portugal in the World Cup quarterfinals. Rubbing salt in the wound, Ronaldo converted the penalty kick that sealed the Portuguese win.

"At breakfast in the hotel this morning, Wayne said he would split him in two and smack him in the head. Who can blame him?" the source told The Sun. "He is determined to settle the score in his own way and there is nothing anyone can do about it."

The newspaper also said Ronaldo had apparently joked before the game with Rooney that he would get him sent off.

The Sun has joined the anti-Ronaldo bandwagon, printing a mock dartboard with a picture of Ronaldo winking.

"Here's every England fan's chance to get revenge on the world's biggest winker," the paper said.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, has denied asking the referee for a red card and said he was "very sorry" for Rooney.

"The English press say the referee gave a red card because I spoke (to him), but this is not true," Ronaldo is quoted as saying on Manchester United's official Web site. "I said 'ref this is foul' but I did not say 'red card' because Wayne is my friend and I play at the same team as him."

Still the flashy Portuguese winger can apparently expect a torrid reception from other England players.

"I saw what Ronaldo did," said Steven Gerrard, according to English reports. "I saw him going over to the referee and giving him the card and I think he was bang out of order. If he were one of my teammates I would be absolutely disgusted with him.

"After Wayne was sent off he (Ronaldo) winked at his bench and his teammates and that just about sums him up as a person. If I were playing against a teammate from Liverpool and they were involved in a situation like that I would never try to get them sent off."

Added fellow midfielder Frank Lampard, "He's supposed to be a teammate of Wayne's at Manchester United and he does something like that. It's not nice, is it? A lot has been made of trying to promote fair play in this tournament and that was certainly not fair play. Unfortunately that's the way it is with some players. We were told that anyone who tried to get someone else a yellow or red card would get a yellow but it just hasn't happened."

Defender John Terry was reportedly upset at the behavior of other members of the Portuguese squad, including Chelsea teammate Carvalho. "It's really disappointing seeing that - players playing in the Premiership too. Teammates as well. It's disappointing to see them coming over doing that."

In other news, the Daily Mirror reported manager Sven-Goran Eriksson burst into tears in the England dressing room as he thanked his players for their service. Eriksson is stepping down as England boss.

[Butch]

So nice to have a little World Cup reprieve for a couple days - Saturday night was crazy . . . Sunday, I didn't have the energy to keep up (missed opportunity with Brazil and France in town).

The next two days should be nuts here . . . really hoping France and Germany can make it through . . . if they get to the finals, I've got a win-win situation . . . if Germany wins, I've got a huge party in town . . . if France wins, I've got some heritage to celebrate!

In the end, though . . . I'm just hoping Italy doesn't win! heh (though, if they do win, I've still got a bit of a win in it, since I saw them play vs. the US).

[Butch]

Bah . . . game tonight was such a let-down. So frustrating. That goal just silenced everyone/thing in the area . . . now I'm am wholeheartedly going for France . . . but, at least if Italy wins, I can say I saw them play during the tournament . . . but I would be more than happy to have France win and be able to say I saw their finals competitor play. ;)

[speedracer120]

Tonights game was tight, but infuriating.

[bachviet]

Go France!

Zizou is going to show Figo how to play beautifully. :D

[Butch]

If France wins tonight, I'm trying find a way to get to Paris for the game on Sunday and somehow make it back to Frankfurt for a 9AM meeting on Monday morning (What kind of ****ing German schedules a meeting for 9AM on the day following the World Cup final?? - this meeting was scheduled long before the loss last night, by the way).

I've found an Air France flight that will get me back into Frankfurt Airport at 8:25, which would leave me hustling to make it to the meeting . . . but might be well worth it.

[ialsohaveadream]

Bye bye Krauts! That'll teach you to eliminate the team I was rooting for. :)

[Butch]

Bought my ticket to Paris! :) . . . got a flight that is scheduled to arrive back in Frankfurt at 8:25AM on Monday, so I'm going to have to RUN to make my meeting . . . but whatever . . . ****'em!

ALLEZ LES BLEUS!

[DaFunkyUnit]

from now until the game, I will eat nothing but pizza and french fries. :P

[bachviet]

Les Bleus are in the final. :woohoo:

On Sunday, I will sport my '82 France jersey and watch the game at local coffe shop. Italy has not beaten France in 25 years and I hope the streak will continue.

[speedracer120]

I hope Zizou gets his last hurrah.

[guiseppewv]

Down with the Frenchies. :P Maybe Italy can get a military honor guard to go to the game which will cause France to surrender immediately and then Italy can win by forfeit. :P :)

[TofuNinja]

Not a fan of the french... go Italy

[baseballbob]

yes-go ITALY

[gear02]

Damn great game marred by one of the worst lapse of judgements I've seen, especially from the Captain. That would be like Derek Jeter throwing a bat at the pitcher in a walk off situation...

[irwin]

in case you missed it...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBV52GPhNjw

http://img284.imageshack.us/img284/153/zidane3di.gif

[MikeD]

Damn great game marred by one of the worst lapse of judgements I've seen, especially from the Captain. That would be like Derek Jeter throwing a bat at the pitcher in a walk off situation...

:stupid:

Hard to say that it cost them the game, but not having your best player on the field for the rest of the match was certainly not helpful.

Not only a lapse of judgement, but on the biggest stage in the world. Couldn't believe it when I saw it.

[Markel]

I was already pulling for Italy, but when I saw that cheap headbutt, it made me totally pull for France to lose. Too bad it was already his last game - nothing further to ban him from.

[speedracer120]

Well, great World Cup. Can't wait for the next one.

[baggio248]

Great WC indeed. I'm sad its over. Zidane's action was classless and cost them the cup. Without he, and Henry taking PK's it didn't look to good. I take my hat off to them though, they played great all the way through.

In two weeks my friend is coming back from Italy and she is bringing me a jersey.

VIVA ITALIA!

[JackHammer]

Who butts people with their heads? Leave it up to the French. Viva la France!

[speedracer120]

I must say that the headbutt was random but awesome. Straight up knocked him on the ground.

[Markel]

Straight up knocked him on the ground.
Being knocked to the ground in those games means nothing. If you sneezed at some of those players, they would end up on the ground. :rolleyes:

[gear02]

Being knocked to the ground in those games means nothing. If you sneezed at some of those players, they would end up on the ground. :rolleyes:

and people wonder why soccer hasn't caught on in the US. :D

[zippyjuan]

We want more head butting and goals scored.

[speedracer120]

Seems the punk either called Zidane a "terrorist" or may have purposely touched his wounded arm. Not "proper" behavior, but I don't blame him.

[gear02]

Seems the punk either called Zidane a "terrorist" or may have purposely touched his wounded arm. Not "proper" behavior, but I don't blame him.

Wow...if the former is true that Italian guy should really get reamed. It's one thing for FIFA to proper anti-racism for the spectators and fans. It's another for players to be racist as well.

FYI Zidane is Algerian by descent.

[baseballbob]

Well, great World Cup. Can't wait for the next one.
too bad it's gonna be 4 MORE years:dead:

[Markel]

...or may have purposely touched his wounded arm. Not "proper" behavior, but I don't blame him.
If you watch the video, it looks like the guy is reaching around Zidane and purposely NOT touching his left arm. It looks like Zidane then purposely jogs ahead and turns and butts the guy. Zidane comes out looking like a jerk.

By the way, did anybody else notice how the French all refused to wear their second place medals?

[nickel]

in case you missed it...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBV52GPhNjw

http://img284.imageshack.us/img284/153/zidane3di.gif
granted that was definitely a solid headbutt to the midriff, but does anyone think Materazzi fell a bit harder and made it look worse than it was?

[zippyjuan]

The Italians celebrated. I don't get excited about it, but they were still living it up in Little Italy in San Diego when I rode through there this evening. The picure isn't that great since the people were in the shade and the buildings in the sun, but it did OK. I liked the composition with the billboard in the background. They were hoisting a replica trophy. It looks like they were Photoshoped in. That is just because I had to reduce the shadows quite a bit to show the people in much more than a silluette.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/JeffryZ/On_Eighth_Day.jpg

[Markel]

granted that was definitely a solid headbutt to the midriff, but does anyone think Materazzi fell a bit harder and made it look worse than it was?
It was more to the chest. Materazzi might have done a bit of acting, but Zidane's actions deserved nothing less than a red card.

[cheapie]

If you watch the video, it looks like the guy is reaching around Zidane and purposely NOT touching his left arm. It looks like Zidane then purposely jogs ahead and turns and butts the guy. Zidane comes out looking like a jerk.

By the way, did anybody else notice how the French all refused to wear their second place medals?


yeah. pretty classless taking them off huh?

[nickel]

It was more to the chest. Materazzi might have done a bit of acting, but Zidane's actions deserved nothing less than a red card.
i agree, but i guess all the falling down on purpose and exaggerating for effect just gets silly after awhile from this fan's point of view.

[gear02]

i agree, but i guess all the falling down on purpose and exaggerating for effect just gets silly after awhile from this fan's point of view.

Quick! The magic spray!

[cheapie]

totally. and i thought the ref was going to have a bad game after that phantom foul in the penalty box and the score and then the quick yellow a few minues later. he made up for the penalty kick by not giving one later when italy deserved it.

also, he didn't call a foul on many of the dives during the game.

also the announcers kept going on and on about the penalty kick and how great it was. they never mentioned that he basically missed it! an inch or two higher and he would have missed completely. :rolleyes:

[cheapie]

Quick! The magic spray!


pour cold water on it! that will make my seizure-inducing pain go away. :2far:

[nickel]

Quick! The magic spray!

What's That Magic Spray?
The World Cup's special injury potion, revealed. (http://www.slate.com/id/2144194/)

[baseballbob]

I hope to see it on replay-had to work-forgot to tape it

[Markel]

I hope to see it on replay-had to work-forgot to tape it
Passwird had a link to a Franch language replay a few replies back:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBV52GPhNjw

[baggio248]

yeah. pretty classless taking them off huh?

It was classess. A good handful of players took them off, but even the coach took his off and put it in his pocket before he stepped off the stage.

[guiseppewv]

I was in disbelief that Zidane would do such a thing. I had just taken a bite of food and I almost spit it out. I was like "what the ef just happened?". Then they played the replay and I was like "holy $hiote". I kept thinking there is no way that was Zidane. Then they showed the replay again and I knew he was gone. That was a very classless act.


Seems the punk either called Zidane a "terrorist" or may have purposely touched his wounded arm. Not "proper" behavior, but I don't blame him.

Were you watching the same game I was? The Italian didn't touch Zidane's injured shoulder and Zidane was a yard or 2 away from the Italian before he turned around and head butted him. Not a good note to end your career on.


If you watch the video, it looks like the guy is reaching around Zidane and purposely NOT touching his left arm. It looks like Zidane then purposely jogs ahead and turns and butts the guy. Zidane comes out looking like a jerk.

By the way, did anybody else notice how the French all refused to wear their second place medals?

Classless both times. I cannot believe that you would be so unsportsmanlike as to remove your second place medal before you even leave the "stage". Just classless. :disa:

[guiseppewv]

totally. and i thought the ref was going to have a bad game after that phantom foul in the penalty box and the score and then the quick yellow a few minues later. he made up for the penalty kick by not giving one later when italy deserved it.

also, he didn't call a foul on many of the dives during the game.

also the announcers kept going on and on about the penalty kick and how great it was. they never mentioned that he basically missed it! an inch or two higher and he would have missed completely. :rolleyes:

I am not sure he had a make-up call for his bad call early in the game but it was much harder to get a call shortly after that bad call. The Italians should have gotten a foul called on them in the box in the 2nd half but when I was watching the full speed live action I thought the defender got the ball. Once they replayed it the attacker's foot was pushed into the ball by the defender's foot, which is a foul, but a hard one to notice on a breakaway when you are viewing the action from behind.

The PK was a good one. Any PK that is unstoppable is a great one. If the goalie could have stopped by jumping to one side or the other then I don't think it was great. He was lucky, though, b/c he could have easily missed that one.

I was dissapointed by the Italian's play in the 2nd half. They owned France in the 1st half. If it were not for a few near misses and the bad PK call the Italians would have had the lead at the half. The French had great endurance in the 2nd half. The Italians lost thier morale and their legs early. They looked like they were surely going to be defeated. They had a few great defensive plays and a few great saves that kept them from losing. I also think the French waited way too long to sub fresh players in. They had 2 subs remaining as OT started. They should have started off with 2 fresh subs then. I think if they would have made a few more good runs at Italy they probably would have squeaked one in.

I am glad Italy won. :)

[nickel]

the geeks have been busy with this :P

Zidane takes back his Butterfinger (http://zidanewantscandy.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane performs a 6-hit combo (http://francefighter.ytmnd.com/)

http://zidanegetsowned.ytmnd.com/

Materazzi counter-attacks (http://emca.ytmnd.com/)

lol, headbutt (http://oulalazidane.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane vs. Deathstar (http://zidanedeathstar.ytmnd.com/)

Medieval Zidane (http://medievalzidane.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane from the NES days (http://neszidane.ytmnd.com/)

[guiseppewv]

the geeks have been busy with this :P

Zidane takes back his Butterfinger (http://zidanewantscandy.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane performs a 6-hit combo (http://francefighter.ytmnd.com/)

http://zidanegetsowned.ytmnd.com/

Materazzi counter-attacks (http://emca.ytmnd.com/)

lol, headbutt (http://oulalazidane.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane vs. Deathstar (http://zidanedeathstar.ytmnd.com/)

Medieval Zidane (http://medievalzidane.ytmnd.com/)

Zidane from the NES days (http://neszidane.ytmnd.com/)

Those were pretty funny. :heh: People have way too much time on their hands.

[Grubbie]

also the announcers kept going on and on about the penalty kick and how great it was. they never mentioned that he basically missed it! an inch or two higher and he would have missed completely. :rolleyes:


How can you see he basically missed it? It was an amazing freekick and he had massive balls to step up and take the PK that way. I have taken PK's before and nailed them in off the side post, does it mean I basically missed it? No it means I placed a great kick in the back of the net or in Zidane's case in the goal.

There is always an inch or two here or an inch there for every spot. You could say the same thing for every homerun hit in baseball, well if he was an inch higher he would of topped it off.

[gear02]

How can you see he basically missed it? It was an amazing freekick and he had massive balls to step up and take the PK that way. I have taken PK's before and nailed them in off the side post, does it mean I basically missed it? No it means I placed a great kick in the back of the net or in Zidane's case in the goal.

There is always an inch or two here or an inch there for every spot. You could say the same thing for every homerun hit in baseball, well if he was an inch higher he would of topped it off.

The analogy would be if you barry bonds comes to the plate in the bottom of the ninth inning tied with two outs and with a guy on third and he bunts rather than swing for the fences.

You see a lot of PKs where the guy hits it as hard as he can.

[guiseppewv]

The analogy would be if you barry bonds comes to the plate in the bottom of the ninth inning tied with two outs and with a guy on third and he bunts rather than swing for the fences.

You see a lot of PKs where the guy hits it as hard as he can.

I have to disagree with your statement. Barry bonds bunting would be like someone softly shooting the ball up the middle knowing that the goalie is going to expect you to shoot it hard to one side or the other. The goalie jumps and the ball hits the back of the net.

The correct analogy would be if someone was playing softball and there were 2 outs in the 3rd inning and a man on third. The count is X-2 and you have no fouls to give. You hit the ball and it is barely fair down the first or third baseline. An inch further and you are out but since it is fair your team scores a run.

This was not an end of the game or even near end of the game PK. It was a good shot b/c of velocity but let's not confuse his shot with a spectacular GW goal in the 90th minute.

[gear02]

I have to disagree with your statement. Barry bonds bunting would be like someone softly shooting the ball up the middle knowing that the goalie is going to expect you to shoot it hard to one side or the other. The goalie jumps and the ball hits the back of the net.

The correct analogy would be if someone was playing softball and there were 2 outs in the 3rd inning and a man on third. The count is X-2 and you have no fouls to give. You hit the ball and it is barely fair down the first or third baseline. An inch further and you are out but since it is fair your team scores a run.

This was not an end of the game or even near end of the game PK. It was a good shot b/c of velocity but let's not confuse his shot with a spectacular GW goal in the 90th minute.

True. I still love that goal in overtime where the guy knocked the ball down with one leg and while the ball was still coming down he nailed an amazing curving ball. One of the most beautiful plays in sports I've ever seen.

[Butch]

Klinsmann has quit as German coach . . . folks in Germany, none too pleased.

Klinsmann has become a bit of a hero here, but I think a lot of people assumed he may leave.

Wonder if he'll take up the US post.

[speedracer120]

I sure hope he does.

[baggio248]

Klinsmann has quit as German coach . . . folks in Germany, none too pleased.

Klinsmann has become a bit of a hero here, but I think a lot of people assumed he may leave.

Wonder if he'll take up the US post.

Orginally I heard they had inquired about that, but he said no. But now that he just up and quit...it makes you wonder. Maybe i'll start hanging around where he shows up to play sometimes and see if I can get some info. =)

[cheapie]

How can you see he basically missed it? It was an amazing freekick and he had massive balls to step up and take the PK that way. I have taken PK's before and nailed them in off the side post, does it mean I basically missed it? No it means I placed a great kick in the back of the net or in Zidane's case in the goal.

There is always an inch or two here or an inch there for every spot. You could say the same thing for every homerun hit in baseball, well if he was an inch higher he would of topped it off.


ha! are you telling me he played it off bottom of the crossbar on purpose?

[baggio248]

1 Brazil
2 Italy
3 Argentina
4 France
5 England
6 Netherlands
7 Spain
8 Portugal
9 Germany
10 Czech Rep.
11 Nigeria
12 Cameroon
13 Switzerland
14 Uruguay
15 Ukraine
16 USA
17 Denmark
18 Mexico
19 Paraguay
20 Ivory Coast

[ialsohaveadream]

ha! are you telling me he played it off bottom of the crossbar on purpose?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INdYpvjjImc&search=ronaldinho%20crossbar

[Memo]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INdYpvjjImc&search=ronaldinho%20crossbar

That video is fake though man.

[ialsohaveadream]

That video is fake though man.
:rolleyes: Yeah, right. Next you're gonna try to tell me that this video is fake. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jy8kpad6BdM&search=vick%20powerade) Whatever, man.

[bachviet]

That video is fake though man.
No it's not fake. Ronaldinho has the skills to hit the crossbar with the ball.