MUScoop
MUScoop => The Superbar => Topic started by: Henry Sugar on May 26, 2010, 02:57:51 PM
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Since Tim and I keep passing World Cup links back and forth, I thought it would be fun to open up an official World Cup thread.
USA 23 Man Roster is set (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5222503/ce/us/united-states-sets-23-man-roster-south-africa?cc=5901&ver=us)
ESPN Soccernet has their top 50 players of the world cup (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/page/worldcup101-03012010/ce/us/top-50-players-2010-world-cup?cc=5901&ver=us)
GQ has a bevy of small features (http://www.gq.com/sports/guides/201006/world-cup). Their Top 11 players doesn't have Rooney, but the list of possible breakout players was interesting
The Big Lead has the best previews I've seen
USA! USA! USA! (http://thebiglead.com/index.php/2010/05/06/2010-world-cup-preview-group-c-united-states/)
English people drink too much and have bad teeth (http://thebiglead.com/index.php/2010/05/04/2010-world-cup-preview-group-c-england/). Okay, that's just my title
According to FIFA, only fifteen days remaining.
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http://www.nyasatimes.com/national/malawi-prostitutes-flock-to-south-africa-ahead-of-world-cup.html (http://www.nyasatimes.com/national/malawi-prostitutes-flock-to-south-africa-ahead-of-world-cup.html)
Bring Condems.
Title:
Malawi prostitutes flock to South Africa ahead of World Cup
Quotes:
The global football showpiece has generally become a common ground for prostitutes to rake in millions from thousands of tourists.
19-year-old Chrisy said: “If I fail to go to South Africa during the World Cup I hope our business will still improve here at home because some of the fans will be coming to Africa for the first time and they will be interested to visit countries like Malawi. I hope this World Cup is going to work to our advantage because I have been interested to have more clients like whites so I believe during this period I may get some.”
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Seriously, is the entire Spanish team in the Espn Top 50?!
(Note, not saying it isn't accurrate. Just amazing to see the all around talent.)
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Seriously, is the entire Spanish team in the Espn Top 50?!
(Note, not saying it isn't accurrate. Just amazing to see the all around talent.)
According to this article, Spain enters the tourney as the #2 ranked team in the world -- Brazil is tops
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5iawA-T_IeqIdBvBu_Hy6sWu2ls9A
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I am baffled as to how Robbie Findlay made the squad and Brian Ching didn't. I wonder if Holden playing a full 90 has convinced Bob to play Dempsey up front with Altidore and use Stewie on the right wing.
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I am baffled as to how Robbie Findlay made the squad and Brian Ching didn't. I wonder if Holden playing a full 90 has convinced Bob to play Dempsey up front with Altidore and use Stewie on the right wing.
If I had to guess, it was because of Findlay's speed and questions about Ching's hammy. Also, I think Findlay's spot was pretty secure, Ching was competing with Gomez and Buddle.
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Since Tim and I keep passing World Cup links back and forth, I thought it would be fun to open up an official World Cup thread.
USA 23 Man Roster is set (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5222503/ce/us/united-states-sets-23-man-roster-south-africa?cc=5901&ver=us)
ESPN Soccernet has their top 50 players of the world cup (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/page/worldcup101-03012010/ce/us/top-50-players-2010-world-cup?cc=5901&ver=us)
GQ has a bevy of small features (http://www.gq.com/sports/guides/201006/world-cup). Their Top 11 players doesn't have Rooney, but the list of possible breakout players was interesting
The Big Lead has the best previews I've seen
USA! USA! USA! (http://thebiglead.com/index.php/2010/05/06/2010-world-cup-preview-group-c-united-states/)
English people drink too much and have bad teeth (http://thebiglead.com/index.php/2010/05/04/2010-world-cup-preview-group-c-england/). Okay, that's just my title
According to FIFA, only fifteen days remaining.
There is no way John Terry and Kaka should be in the top 11 after the seasons they had.
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There is no way John Terry and Kaka should be in the top 11 after the seasons they had.
There is no way Michael Ballack should be in the top 50 as he won't be playing and Ashley Cole on ESPN's list is a bit laughable as well.
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I thought this was interesting from the WSJ
Vendors Leave No Shirt Unturned Seeking North Korean Soccer Duds (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704717004575268232320877058.html)
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There is no way Michael Ballack should be in the top 50 as he won't be playing and Ashley Cole on ESPN's list is a bit laughable as well.
Well, the article was written before Ballack's injury. Can't see why Cole shouldn't be in, though. I'd take him in a heartbeat. If he's fit, he's one of the best left backs in the world.
Of course, I'd also take England U-21 left back Ryan Bertrand over anyone the US has back there, too.
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On the field the quality of play will be high. Off the field I think this will be a financial disaster of epic proportions...and I just hope that every gets home safe.
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If I had to guess, it was because of Findlay's speed and questions about Ching's hammy. Also, I think Findlay's spot was pretty secure, Ching was competing with Gomez and Buddle.
I think you are right there, Ching's breakaway midway through the 2nd half against the Czech's where he could outpace the defenders and nothing came of the attack probably stood out in Bradley's mind like it did mine.
Call me off my rocker, but I would have rather had Robbie Rogers than Beasley. I know the team is somewhat short on Cup caps, but Beasley is way too soft any more and Rogers has really mixed it up of late.
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Well, the article was written before Ballack's injury. Can't see why Cole shouldn't be in, though. I'd take him in a heartbeat. If he's fit, he's one of the best left backs in the world.
Of course, I'd also take England U-21 left back Ryan Bertrand over anyone the US has back there, too.
Touche on Ballack. As for Cole, I personally think France alone, which is saying something coming from me who hates that team with a passion, has two left backs better in Evra and Abidal. I also rate Lahm, who while is naturally a right back has played for Germany on the left much higher than Cole.
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Call me off my rocker, but I would have rather had Robbie Rogers than Beasley. I know the team is somewhat short on Cup caps, but Beasley is way too soft any more and Rogers has really mixed it up of late.
For me, this is just classic Beasley. I remember when he played that one game at left back in qualifying...he came in and suddenly we thought we had someone who could play back there every month. But the next time he was back there, he was awful and suddenly couldn't get a look. I'm a Fire fan, and have liked DaMarcus from way back, but he's the sort who can put together a great performance, then seems to go in the tank for the next 5-6 games. After getting past injury, he did that at Man City and then also at Rangers. That history definitely doesn't bode well going into the World Cup.
My hope is that Beasley never gets on the pitch. If so, I want it to be at most for the final minutes against Slovenia and/or Algeria to spell Donovan after we have built a 2+ goal lead. I would have much rather had Rogers in, as I feel he may not have the history, but he's certainly more exciting. And at least Rogers plays for his club team. Beasley didn't play much for Rangers, and isn't there anymore.
Still, I can't fault the selections much. Considering that Bob called in Gomez and Buddle, two guys that never got a sniff in qualifying, and then put them on the roster? It's clear to me that Bradley will pick guys based on form and how they impress him at the time, rather than just sticking with the same guys (something Arena was guilty of for too long). I thought Ching made sense in as the hold-up guy, but Holden played 90, maybe he can take over at right mid with Dempsey moving up front, and Buddle adds skill and form while Gomez is the pure super-sub type. I look forward to seeing this team on Saturday against Turkey.
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Buddle has been on fire this MLS season . Beasley has been a enigma on the pitch most times i have watched him. he seems to be completley lost and a non-factor. He possesses a lot of speed and talent but disappears and I second the hope that he not enter the pitch.
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I love the fact he put Gomez in the 23. The U.S. has very few finishers up front. They need a guy who finds space and takes his chances. Gomez can do that. I thought Buddle looked very active against Czech and can be the guy that can hold the ball like Ching, except he has more pace.
Still very concerned about the depth at the back, and the left back position in general. Hope Spector can get on a good run of form, they were exposed badly on Tuesday.
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Left back is a horrible problem. It seems like everyone can play one good game at the position then gets exposed. Bocanegra doesn't have the pace. Bornstein and Pearce lack quality. Beasley isn't physical enough and simply not defensively aware. Edgar Castillo didn't do much to earn time at the position.
My thought is that Bradley should have brought Spector, Boca, Bornstein, Pearce, Besley, and Castillo, and rotated his starter at left back. If everyone has one good game in them, that's enough guys to get you to the final :D then just start whichever one played best in the final.
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We have a ball issue
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/398601-adidas-new-world-cup-ball-lambasted-by-goalkeepers-again
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A friend from Argentina is going to be in town during the world cup. Are there any good world cup bars in Milwaukee to take him to catch Argentina in action on tv?
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Tell him to join us at the Highbury! I'll be there for all the USA matches, and they will be open early enough every day during the Cup for him to take in all the action. It's located just south of Lincoln on KK in Bay View, and will be the best for atmosphere, bar none.
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A friend from Argentina is going to be in town during the world cup. Are there any good world cup bars in Milwaukee to take him to catch Argentina in action on tv?
I will be at the Nomad on Brady.
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Thanks guys, we'll probably try Highbury.
And onward Slovenija Nogometna!!!! (1/2 slovenian guy here) pretty impressive Slovenia made the World Cup for being such a small nation.
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1 word: DROGBA!!!!
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1 word: DROGBA!!!!
I hope they bring a couple cases of magic spray for that guy. He is always "hurt"
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1 word: DROGBA!!!!
Divers are off until 2012. Luckily for him, the Olympics are in London.
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How about predictions?
Quarters:
England over France
Brazil over Netherlands
Argentina over Germany (Germany beats US in Round of 16)
Italy over Spain
Semis:
Brazil over England
Italy over Argentina
1st: Brazil
3rd: Argentina
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How about predictions?
Quarters:
England over France
Brazil over Netherlands
Argentina over Germany (Germany beats US in Round of 16)
Italy over Spain
Semis:
Brazil over England
Italy over Argentina
1st: Brazil
3rd: Argentina
Are you the guy picks all the #1 seeds in the NCAA tourney too? ;D
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Yeah...well...I did have Spain losing to Italy. ;D
But I just don't see how France, the Netherlands or Germany will beat their possible opponents. And then England v. Brazil???
It's kind of a top heavy sport.
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Yeah...well...I did have Spain losing to Italy. ;D
But I just don't see how France, the Netherlands or Germany will beat their possible opponents. And then England v. Brazil???
It's kind of a top heavy sport.
Germany I agree with(esp w/out Ballack), but I think Netherlands gets to the final.
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Winner: Brazil
Runner-up: Ivory Coast
Third Place: England
Other predictions...
USA make deepest ever run to semis, then lose to Drogba and Ivory Coast.
France, Portugal, and Argentina fail to get out of their respective groups.
Spain and Italy both lose in the second round.
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Winner: Netherlands
Runner Up: Spain
Third Place: Brazil
Not so fearless predictions: South Africa becomes the first host country to not make it out of the group stage and North Korea becomes the first country to win the world cup without scoring one goal (at least Kim Jong Il will make it seem like they won).
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Don't get sucked into the Netherland hype.
They have talent to be sure, but they always disappoint come WC time.
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Dos Santos thinking about quitting the Mexican squad because his brother was cut.
Color me shocked, a Mexican soccer player crying and complaining about something.
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/sow_experts/post/Walking-away-from-the-World-Cup?urn=sow,244952
(http://njmg.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2007/09/06/oswaldo_sanchez_2.jpg)
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Don't get sucked into the Netherland hype.
They have talent to be sure, but they always disappoint come WC time.
I understand where you're coming from. In the opening games of Euro 08 they were world beaters, only to fizzle out against Russia. BUT, I have a nagging feeling that this is their year. They beat down on my Mexico with ease with half of their starters and then recently dismantled Ghana 4-1. Robben and Sneijder on the wings is too much for any team to handle. This is their year.
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Go Netherlands, my homeland! Go USA, my home
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Couple of good articles about youth development.
Andy Najar and MLS academies (ESPN) (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5219888/ce/us/future-us-soccer?cc=5901&ver=us)
How a Soccer Star is Made (NYTimes) (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/06/magazine/06Soccer-t.html?ref=general&src=me&pagewanted=all) Very long, but well worth reading
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Argentina (Non-European Team)
Netherlands (European Team)
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/sow_experts/post/American-born-Giuseppe-Rossi-won-t-be-playing-fo?urn=sow,245193
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This sucks!!!! I love Drogba, but I'm sure some people will be happy...
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=ap-ivorycoast-japan
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Wow, the injuries are piling up now. Didier Drogba joins Michael Essien, Rio Ferdinand, Jose Bosingwa, and Michael Ballack as players all likely to miss the World Cup due to injury. Good thing I saw the Drogba report before I went to Stefan's Soccer Supply today...headed in to turn in my World Cup bracket (and pick up a new Donovan kit) and I had Ivory Coast going to the final. Now I can't see them getting out of the groups...Portugal advances to group stage, loses to Spain, who goes on to the final against Brazil.
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This sucks!!!! I love Drogba, but I'm sure some people will be happy...
http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news?slug=ap-ivorycoast-japan
Drogba is a bitch, as evidenced by this rock and roll montage.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAATMG91KUU
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Couple of good articles about youth development.
Andy Najar and MLS academies (ESPN) (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5219888/ce/us/future-us-soccer?cc=5901&ver=us)
How a Soccer Star is Made (NYTimes) (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/06/magazine/06Soccer-t.html?ref=general&src=me&pagewanted=all) Very long, but well worth reading
After reading that NYT article, I have my doubts that the US will ever be at this level. Soccer is just not ingrained enough in our culture to operate like that. I guess we may get there just because we have so many people, but it's just not a sport that is all that relevant to many Americans.
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Drogba is a bitch, as evidenced by this rock and roll montage.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAATMG91KUU
Hahaha yeah dude soccer players always over react to little shoves and crap like that though
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Oh yeah, most do, not just Drogba. But the dong grab :o :o :o
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drogba scored 29 in 32
at age 32
what is bitchy about that?
the IC is done in my book / I bet there is a chance he plays though can you wear a cast in international matches?
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drogba scored 29 in 32
at age 32
what is bitchy about that?
the IC is done in my book / I bet there is a chance he plays though can you wear a cast in international matches?
Nothing about his skill, but he is one of if not the biggest egotistical crybaby floppers in the Premiership.
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Nothing about his skill, but he is one of if not the biggest egotistical crybaby floppers in the Premiership.
at least he keeps good company
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The Premiership is the essence of flopping...not. If you think their is flopping in the English league wait to you see Spain, Portugal or Italy play in the World Cup.
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The Premiership is the essence of flopping...not. If you think their is flopping in the English league wait to you see Spain, Portugal or Italy play in the World Cup.
This is what really bothers me about soccer.
I would call people out on it in the media, and say if you flop in a game against us, the next time we will make sure it isn't a flop.
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This is what really bothers me about soccer.
I would call people out on it in the media, and say if you flop in a game against us, the next time we will make sure it isn't a flop.
Yeah, but the danger of it is that if you say you'll target floppers, then you target floppers, you'll get handed a card by the ref, and may miss out on the next match.
Diving used to bother me, but the more I've watched the sport, the more I've accepted that it is part of the game. There is a skill to diving, and if a ref suspects you are diving, that is also a bookable offense. I don't really see it as any different than basketball players selling a hard foul or a charge. When you see someone sliding backwards on their butt after a charge, yet with enough composure to still pump their fist as they see they earned the charge call in the lane, it's the same thing as a dive in football.
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I've gotta agree w/ Brew
If ronaldo didn't go down as much as he does his goal total would be cut in 1/3'd he earns those free kicks...IMO
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Drogba is out for the World Cup ... wow. Africa's hope for a title on home soil now rest mostly with Nigeria.
http://deadspin.com/5555520/omfg-didier-drogba-out-of-the-world-cup
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Yeah, but the danger of it is that if you say you'll target floppers, then you target floppers, you'll get handed a card by the ref, and may miss out on the next match.
Diving used to bother me, but the more I've watched the sport, the more I've accepted that it is part of the game. There is a skill to diving, and if a ref suspects you are diving, that is also a bookable offense. I don't really see it as any different than basketball players selling a hard foul or a charge. When you see someone sliding backwards on their butt after a charge, yet with enough composure to still pump their fist as they see they earned the charge call in the lane, it's the same thing as a dive in football.
But the trainers aren't running out onto the court with a spray-can magically healing injuries...
I enjoy watching soccer, but A LOT of the players are...well, sissy-boys.
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Don't rule out Cameroon. I give them great odds to come out of Group E in second place, the only drawback for them is that they will likely meet up with Spain or Portugal in the quarterfinals. But they are an overlooked squad that could make a run to the semifinals, possibly even the final itself with a few good bounces.
On another note...North Korea tried to outfox FIFA by only selecting two keepers and adding an extra striker. But FIFA rules mandate that you must bring three keepers, so now the striker they named as their third keeper can only play keeper for the duration of the Cup. Absolutely hilarious (http://images.pesfan.com/smilies/laugh.gif)
North Korea striker now a keeper (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5247372/ce/us/roster-restricts-north-korea-striker-keeper?cc=5901&ver=us)
And LON...it's all gamesmanship. Doing what you have to in order to win your team a valuable setpiece or a penalty isn't being a sissy, it's taking advantage of your physical training. I would absolutely love it if the US had anyone who could dive with half the talent that Cristiano Ronaldo does. It would be a huge benefit to our side. But because we as a nation deride this gamesmanship our players are hesitant to try. Then on the occasions when they do try to dive, frankly they suck at it.
I think it's important to understand the way a game is played. If a cornerback can get away with hand checks in American football beyond 5 yards or if an offensive lineman gets away with an illegal hold, do we call him a sissy? Is Chris Pronger a sissy because he is cross-checking Dustin Byfuglien illegally in the back on a nightly basis in the Stanley Cup Finals? When a Marquette basketball player does that little bit extra to earn free throws, do we complain? Every sport, and I mean every sport has a bit of cheating going on in every game, and probably close to on every play. It's easy to cast aspersions on sports you don't follow, but realize that the sports you do follow have just as much cheating on a nightly basis.
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Or when Kobe throws his arms in the air when he gets stripped of the ball or gets touched when going up to take a shot.
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Now Ferdinand is officially out for the Brits.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5250277/ce/us/england-captain-rio-ferdinand-ruled-world-cup&cc=5901?ver=us
:'( Not.
More like this, ;D
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I have a nagging fear that Ferdinand's absence may be an addition by subtraction for Angleterre. I know he brings leadership presence to a team currently desperate for it on the field, but he was inconsistent this season at the club level and injury-plagued. I still feel the US can exploit that backline with its speed, but like I said, just a nagging feeling.
I'm more worried if Rooney and Crouch can prove to co-exist against the US backline... I think the US needs to score at least two goals to come away with at least a point in that match.
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Anyone watching the friendly with Australia? Looking very bright so far. Up 2-1 in the 55th minute, and could easily be 4-1 after Findley missed a wide open net and Dempsey had a goal ruled out for offside that probably should have been given. Defending suspect at times, but in general, a fairly solid performance so far.
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I am encouraged except for Bornstein is playing. Hopefully, this is his only appearance in SA.
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Yanks looked good today. With the way Buddle played today, most likely in line, for either a start or first striker off the bench.
Still hoping for Jozy to recover completely, looks like he will be fine for the Redcoats game.
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I am encouraged except for Bornstein is playing. Hopefully, this is his only appearance in SA.
Today was the best Bornstein played in quite awhile. He did linger up front a bit too long after one attack, but he made a number of good clearances and got in the way of quite a few balls. Usually I think he's wretched, but it wasn't like Australia was rampaging all over our left defensive flank when he was in there. Not that I'm ready to slot him into the starting XI, but if pressed into service, he could do alright against Slovenia and Algeria if he plays like he did today.
My hope is that we've seen the last of Robbie Findley in South Africa. Great pace, but his decision making seemed poor today. He shot when he should have laid off, and had two fairly simple chances that he really should have converted. I realize you don't score every time, but that first half miss when he rounded Schwarzer so cleanly was just :-X Buddle did well both in going forward and playing the target role. I would like to see him start in front of Jozy with Gomez as the man to come in for the final fifteen minutes when we are either tied or down by one. If Jozy, Buddle, and Herc are all healthy for the next five weeks, I think our strikers could be surprisingly good in South Africa, something no one really expected a month ago.
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A few thoughts: Pace seems to be a big factor in Bradley's squad. I just hope Findley can hit those bunnies he missed today. I am bery excited about the speed we have. Is that why Beasley was chosen? That selection still confuses me... speaking of hitting bunnies, when will John Terry start shagging his teammates' WAGs in the England camp and thereby sending the team into completely Chaos (Does Capello have an out-clause in the new contract?)... lastly, some MU folk will be watching at Small Bar (The new Fullerton location) in Chicago very early next Saturday.
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Yeah, surprised by Beas myself. My guess is because he is a bit more active as a defender when he's on the left flank than some of the younger guys. I would wager we will be most likely to see him late in games when we are protecting a lead.
EDIT: And not that I'm bothered, more confused. I've been on 199 posts for about a week now, maybe longer, and just noticed that I put this post up and my count stayed the same. Anyone know why this is?
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Superbar posts don't count toward your total.
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Ahh, cheers, Reinko :)
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I hope that Bradley would move Dempsey up to play behind Jozy before Findley gets to play (that would put Holden or Feilhaber on the outside).
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And now Robben may be out for the "Orange".
http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Robben-puts-his-World-Cup-in-doubt-by-being-fanc?urn=sow,245940
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More links
Awesome 3D tour of every world cup stadium by google earth (http://gizmodo.com/5558513/google-earths-incredible-3d-tour-of-every-world-cup-stadium) (HT: Tim)
Fantastic (but long) article about Messi and Maradona (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1169995/index.htm)
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Confirmed now that Pirlo will be out for the Azzurri until after the group stage. =/
That doesn't bode well as he's the Azzurri's last creative force in the midfield. I suppose there's other ways to attack, but Italy's offense will get stale quickly if we rely on De Rossi to carry the load as a forward-moving center mid.
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http://kissingsuzykolber.uproxx.com/2010/06/the-us-world-cup-team-gets-its-proper-dose-of-motivation.html
Hilarious stuff from KSK, as always.
"THE OVERLORDS OF DEATH"
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Slovenia Baby!!!!!!!!!! First ever international cup win!!!
(http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/images/sports/photos/2010/06/13/koren-robert100613getty.jpg)
We are going to get smoked by USA though.
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WTF, those horns that create the constant noise throughout all the matches drive me nuts.
I was in the World Cup in Germany in 2006. It was loud but there weren't any horns. I think they should be banned.
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WTF, those horns that create the constant noise throughout all the matches drive me nuts.
I was in the World Cup in Germany in 2006. It was loud but there weren't any horns. I think they should be banned.
Agree, sounds like there is a constant hornet's nest buzzing non-stop. I actually turned the mute button on.
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I lose faith in general opinion or mankind when a huge group of people are dumb enough to think it is cool to make a bunch of white noise during a sporting event.
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I don't mind the vuvuzelas. I actually think they add to the environment, mainly because it's something memorable. They drove me nuts at first last summer, but it's just background noise. It doesn't drown out the crowd, and it is definitely something different. Europeans sing, South Americans dance, we chant "U-S-A" over and over.
Different cultures have different traditions, and that's what makes it a "World" Cup. Blow on, South Africa.
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Different cultures have different traditions, and that's what makes it a "World" Cup. Blow on, South Africa.
Agree.
Go USA
Go Netherlands
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We are going to get smoked by USA though.
Not so sure...Slovenia is a very good defensive side, and if the US wants to avoid Germany in the round of 16, they'll likely need to put 2-4 past Slovenia. Slovenia needs to do what the US did to England, give the keeper good sight lines, defend tightly, try to take advantage of counterattack opportunities. This could be a very tricky game for a USA side that is heavily favored to win. Slovenia sneaking a draw or even a win isn't impossible.
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So I tried watching the World Cup. I can get over the slow play, but I can not accept the horrible horn sounds. They need to knock that crap off.
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Not so sure...Slovenia is a very good defensive side, and if the US wants to avoid Germany in the round of 16, they'll likely need to put 2-4 past Slovenia. Slovenia needs to do what the US did to England, give the keeper good sight lines, defend tightly, try to take advantage of counterattack opportunities. This could be a very tricky game for a USA side that is heavily favored to win. Slovenia sneaking a draw or even a win isn't impossible.
If we play our game, nothing to worry about here.
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Damn! If only Altidore's shot in the second half would have found the net. But, in light of the gift that England's keeper gave us, I probably shouldn't be complaining.
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Now that is funny......lego reenactment
http://deadspin.com/5563011/usa+england-tie-given-the-lego-treatment
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This one is great as well. BP's latest failed attempt to plug the leak.
(http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d88/kenwoodla/tumblr_l40bkkMhBV1qcr7dco1_500.png)
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If we play our game, nothing to worry about here.
That's what worries me...Bradley's teams have a tendency to play to the level of their opponent. In qualifying, matches like El Salvador and Honduras, in both cases both home and away, were far more difficult than they should have been. We definitely outclass Slovenia, and if we play our tactics to perfection, we should be comfortable, but this team's tendency to play for the one goal result can often get the into trouble.
We need a first half goal. Get Slovenia chasing, then hit them a couple more times on the counterattack. I have to admit, even a 2-goal win would leave me a bit uneasy, unless somehow Algeria managed to get a draw with England.
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Drogba in!!!
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What the hell, Brazil? First half 0-0 tie?
EDIT: That's more like it
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Finally. This world cup needs some more goals.
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http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/2010/06/world-cup-odds-update.html
Nate Silver busts out some WC predictions
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http://www.vuvuzela-time.co.uk/www.muscoop.com (http://www.vuvuzela-time.co.uk/www.muscoop.com)
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http://www.vuvuzela-time.co.uk/www.muscoop.com (http://www.vuvuzela-time.co.uk/www.muscoop.com)
speaking of which... a co-worker gave me a vuvuzela WAV file that is now my ringtone.
also
http://www.windycitynovelties.com/14975p/yellow-stadium-horn.html
Updated - I converted the WAV file to an MP3 (thanks Kevin) and attached it here. One can grab the file and use as you see fit.
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speaking of which... a co-worker gave me a vuvuzela WAV file that is now my ringtone.
also
http://www.windycitynovelties.com/14975p/yellow-stadium-horn.html
I am extremely jealous of the ringtone
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http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5297052/ce/us/south-african-man-killed-wife-kids-changing-tv-germany-australia-game?cc=5901&ver=us (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5297052/ce/us/south-african-man-killed-wife-kids-changing-tv-germany-australia-game?cc=5901&ver=us)
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That's horrible!
I can't imagine a world where a woman would be allowed to operate the remote.
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USA! USA! USA!
On repeat for the next four hours!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPudiBR15mk
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Gremo Slovenija!
(http://www.world-cup2010odds.com/images/wc%20teams/slovenia.jpg)
Heading out to the pub in a couple hours!!!!
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Germany got screwed, go USA!
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Germany got screwed, go USA!
They better beat Ghana or they may not advance.
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?-( ?-( - 0
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Gott hand it to slovenia so far, those were two nice goals. The usa was showing that they can get good opportunities at the end of the half though. Should be a frantic and fast paced 2nd half.
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Speed means nothing in this game, Slovenia clamps down. Torres has been useless thus far, very nervous touches. Hopefully we can salvage a tie.
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2-2!!!!
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The US got robbed! That was a goal!
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The US got robbed! That was a goal!
Off all the infractions on that setpiece, they call the one that didn't actually occur. Great. Thanks Leon from Curb Your Enthusiasm, swallow your whistle next time.
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Off all the infractions on that setpiece, they call the one that didn't actually occur. Great. Thanks Leon from Curb Your Enthusiasm, swallow your whistle next time.
What infractions? You mean the bear hug to Bradley? He was just showing his affection. What a crock.
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Why does the interviewer from ESPN keep asking about the officiating? The coach and players risk punishment if they disparage the refs. I understand it is a natural question, but think of the potential damage. Remember Jackie Charlton in USA 94? Banned from the sidelines.
I'm appalled at the lack of possession and poor passing by the US. Half the team wants to run and gun, while the other half wonder what the strategy is. Way to dig deep though. C'mon Algeria - tie England!
Does anyone else notice the parallels to watching MU hoops while watching the US? Same feelings!
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We just got hosed...What a terrible call. What a great comeback thought. Hopefully this call will give the US reason to come out firing against Algeria although being a must win game should be motivation enough.
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Although we didn't play well enough in the first half to warrant winning, we did get screwed onn Edu's goal and should have won. This ref was just as bad as the Spanish card throwing ref in the Germany/Serbia game today. I'll be curious to hear his explanation if there is one.
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Although we didn't play well enough in the first half to warrant winning, we did get screwed onn Edu's goal and should have won. This ref was just as bad as the Spanish card throwing ref in the Germany/Serbia game today. I'll be curious to hear his explanation if there is one.
Explanation from FIFA: Foul on Edu during the free kick, not an offside call.
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Explanation from FIFA: Foul on Edu during the free kick, not an offside call.
TERRIBLE CALL!!!! There was no damn foul, he won position that's it!!!!! Cost us the game...
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Why do I feel like the US always gets jobbed in international soccer, especially in games not played in the US. Last world cup it was the Italy game...this year the Slovenia game. So bogus.
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Well it seems as if the referees are becoming noticed in these games and that is not good regardless of what sport you are watching. Call the game the same for the entirety of the game, don't pick your spots.
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Announcer called the referee many disparaging words. The guy was over his head but he didn't cost us a win .
Poor play in the first half was on us.
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What makes that "call" all the more galling is this was the ref who worked the African Cup of Nations final. He's done big games before. Sad, but the US never should have put itself in an 0-2 hole like that. Oh well, root for the Desert Foxes to stun the world and pick up a point this afternoon and then go balls-out for a two-goal victory for the US in the group finale to get through.
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Why do I feel like the US always gets jobbed in international soccer, especially in games not played in the US. Last world cup it was the Italy game...this year the Slovenia game. So bogus.
Because a lot of other countries hate the US and international sports are more crooked than the NBA Playoffs.
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Posnanski is the best. I'm not sure I agree that this was that historic, but still, I like his stuff
http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2010/06/18/the-goal-that-wasnt/
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What makes that "call" all the more galling is this was the ref who worked the African Cup of Nations final. He's done big games before. Sad, but the US never should have put itself in an 0-2 hole like that. Oh well, root for the Desert Foxes to stun the world and pick up a point this afternoon and then go balls-out for a two-goal victory for the US in the group finale to get through.
Regardless of today's outcome, a two goal win v. Algeria clinches it for us.
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Regardless of today's outcome, a two goal win v. Algeria clinches it for us.
I've been trying to work that out in my head, but that's a succinct and correct statement. Thanks. In the case of a three-way tie at the top, goal differential will be the key and Slovenia's goal differential will be +1. Therefore, a +2 differential for USA will do it.
After watching the replay (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5rGDAZnvcI) of the goal, I'm still shocked by the call.
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I've been trying to work that out in my head, but that's a succinct and correct statement. Thanks. In the case of a three-way tie at the top, goal differential will be the key and Slovenia's goal differential will be +1. Therefore, a +2 differential for USA will do it.
After watching the replay (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5rGDAZnvcI) of the goal, I'm still shocked by the call.
What if there is a 3 way tie and goal differential tie?
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What if there is a 3 way tie and goal differential tie?
I believe total goals scored, then perhaps FIFA ranking?
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What if there is a 3 way tie and goal differential tie?
Reinko is correct -- total goals. Fortunately, Slovenia win against Algeria was 1-0. Right now, we're tied with Slovenia in total goals. So, if USA wins 1-0 and England and Slovenia tie 1-1 (assuming an England win today), we will have a three way tie where USA and Slovenia also would be tied on points; differential and total goals. If England's win over Algeria happened to be 1-0, we'd have with all three teams tied in points, differential and total goals.
Here's a link (http://fredericiana.com/2010/06/16/fifa-world-cup-tie-breaker-rules/) to the tie breaking rules. It gets confusing after the first three. If I'm reading it correctly, it might result in a tie and FIFA would draw straws?!! We're screwed if it gets to that point.
USA just needs to win 2-0 against Algeria to make everything very simple.
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England is still struggling with Algeria...a tie (or worse) there would help USA's cause.
Also, one of England's defenders (Carragher) just got his second yellow card and will sit for the game against Slovenia. Not sure how important he is to their team.
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Posnanski is the best. I'm not sure I agree that this was that historic, but still, I like his stuff
http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2010/06/18/the-goal-that-wasnt/
Fantastic article. And yes, this would have been historic. No team in 80 years has come back from 2-0 down to win at the World Cup.
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Sorry, I'm mobile right now, best for USA is that Algeria/UK tie, or an Algeria win?
Thanks!
USA! USA! USA!
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Carragher is useless, there better off without him. England's defense is not very strong as I believe they asked Carragher to come back to international play as he sat out last world cup. He lacks speed to cover pretty much anyone one on one.
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Sorry, I'm mobile right now, best for USA is that Algeria/UK tie, or an Algeria win?
Tie. Then the US only has to win to advance and can still advance on a draw. If Algeria wins, a draw does nothing for us in the final game.
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0-0 tie. Great result for USA. Win, and we're through. Tie, and we're through if England loses. We'd even advance on a tie if England/Slovenia tie as long as England doesn't score too many since we're ahead of them 3-1 for goals in the tournament.
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Why do I feel like the US always gets jobbed in international soccer, especially in games not played in the US. Last world cup it was the Italy game...this year the Slovenia game. So bogus.
Don't forget the missed handball against Germany in 2002. German midfielder Torsten Frings literally slapped a clear goal off the line to prevent us from reaching the semifinal. This was an awful call, but I'm over it. We still have our destiny in our hands thanks to Algeria and this call has provided more domestic interest in the World Cup than any time since 1994. If we can't beat Algeria, we don't deserve to advance (though depending on other results, we still could).
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So much for the African chances at the WC. While a couple of African countries are still potentially able to move into the next round, they all face uphill battles. (Ivory Coast for instance has to hope for a Portugal loss to Brazil and needs to now make up a 9 goal differential when they play North Korea.)
Even Ghana, who is currently leading the group, might be in a bad situation. They are playing Germany next and need to hope for a draw. If they lose, they may be out even if Serbia draws with Austrailia.
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I'm curious to hear how Portugal's 7-0 dismantling of North Korea will be reported back at home. Supposedly the game was supposed to be aired live in North Korea. I'm thinking they might have had some technical difficulties in the broadcast.
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So I tried watching the World Cup. I can get over the slow play, but I can not accept the horrible horn sounds. They need to knock that crap off.
Dan Uggla doesn't like them either.
http://ca.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idCATRE65J0JN20100620
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Do we have a team name? I've noticed so many other countries have an actual team name (fighting dogs, etc). Do we have one?
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Do we have a team name? I've noticed so many other countries have an actual team name (fighting dogs, etc). Do we have one?
The Yanks.
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I love soccer and can't wait for World Cup but have grown tired of the weenie theatrics and fake fouls. Americans will never embrace a sport that isn't honest and fair.
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I love soccer and can't wait for World Cup but have grown tired of the weenie theatrics and fake fouls. Americans will never embrace a sport that isn't honest and fair.
Yes, because American sports are honest. God Bless Barry Bonds, Tim Donaghy, Lance Armstrong, Rodger Clemons and the NBA.
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Chili don't forget NCAA football either.
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I love soccer and can't wait for World Cup but have grown tired of the weenie theatrics and fake fouls. Americans will never embrace a sport that isn't honest and fair.
You mean like the revenue disparities in baseball?
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I love soccer and can't wait for World Cup but have grown tired of the weenie theatrics and fake fouls. Americans will never embrace a sport that isn't honest and fair.
Sure is sheet doesn't happen in the NBA....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWRjyUzPX70 ::)
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The Yanks F*CKING OVERLORDS OF DEATH
Rex Ryan'd
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the worst part of the theatrics are the fake injuries meant to worsen the level of the penalty. ie when a guy grabs his head and writhes in pain to elicit a red card. i'm cool with a flop or a dive to exaggerate or draw a foul, guys do that in every sport. basketball, obviously. football linemen fall down or throw their hands in the air and stop rushing if they think theyre being held. wr-cb battles are rife with exaggeration, etc. but the acting after the play/whistle is what is sickening.
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The problem is that flopping / faking is embedded in the culture of the game... As with everything in life, you must adapt your behavior accordingly or you are doomed to fail.
The US players who have played on international club teams seem to understand this better than the rest.
Go F.O.D.!
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Not a technical soccer fan here...but according to the announcers we just got screwed out of another goal again on a phantom offside call.
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U.S. has nothing to complain about if they don't win.....Altidore just whiffed on an open goal from 5 yards out.
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Not a technical soccer fan here...but according to the announcers we just got screwed out of another goal again on a phantom offside call.
100 percent true
U.S. has nothing to complain about if they don't win.....Altidore just whiffed on an open goal from 5 yards out.
100 percent true
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With both sides attacking, it reminds my why soccer can be so exciting. Too many goals taken away from the US and too many opportunities missed. At least as of the 72 minute mark.
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Nice left in the box to Dempsey's jaw. Algeria is doing crazy stuff and daring the ref to either give the US a penalty kick or one of their guys a red card. So far, it is working.
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Now that was beautiful.
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GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAL!!!!!!!!
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GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAL!!!!!!!!
How did it happen? The ESPN scored changed and I can't get anything now.
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Donovan got a rebound off of their keeper.
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Donovan got a rebound off of their keeper.
Keeper actually made a beautiful and instinctive stop on the cross, but Donovan was trailing in textbook fashion and sent the rebound into the lower corner. It all was started by Tim Howard making a good save and then immediately recognizing the numbers and throwing a perfect lead ball that started a 4 on 2.
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Where were you guys during the game? I left work and went to a bar across the street in manhattan. Place was packed. great vibe. Lots of support. They were literally handing out free beers as you walked in.
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Just saw a replay (finally). Altidore was coming up the right with the ball and made a pass into the box to Dempsey who was making a run up the middle. As JWags said, the keeper made a really nice play to stop the pass to Dempsey and take if off of his foot. Donovan was trailing and put it in. A great play. Great goal.
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That was awesome! The commentators said it best: Even Hollywood couldn't write this!
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Fantastic stuff!! Very exciting!
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I can't wait to watch the replays of the game. Listened to it at work, it sounded like a real nail biter for both teams. Game of the World Cup thus far. Will be interesting to see what happens in this afternoons games to see who we play on Saturday.
Man the bar is going to be CRAZY :D on Saturday.
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I can't wait to watch the replays of the game. Listened to it at work, it sounded like a real nail biter for both teams. Game of the World Cup thus far. Will be interesting to see what happens in this afternoons games to see who we play on Saturday.
Man the bar is going to be CRAZY :D on Saturday.
Wait 'til you see it! You won't believe it!
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I am trying to think of a better TV sports moment than that, at least for myself.
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They had just missed earlier on a similar set up when Howard made a similar Wes-Unseld-ian outlet throw to midfield hitting a wing streaking up the side. They failed to finish that time. Another great throw, a beautiful run, a great save by the Algerian goalie except for giving up a huge rebound opportunity and then......euphoria.
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Oh, ye of little faith. Never in doubt, was it?
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let the superlatives begin
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Full credit to the team for never giving up even when they were unable to finish many earlier opportunities. Also, Clint Dempsey and, I think, Edson Buddle's runs were huge in creating numbers up for the US and a nightmare for the Algerian defense. Also Altidore!!!!
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Watched the second half in the car on the iPhone with the slingbox (carpool...I didn't have to drive)....that was awesome.
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Great pic of the celebration.
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I am trying to think of a better TV sports moment than that, at least for myself.
How old are you? That probably answers it.
For me, 1980 Olympic hockey against Russial will always be it, even though it wasn't live. No Internet then so few people knew what had happened.
Today was pretty awesome, however.
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I am trying to think of a better TV sports moment than that, at least for myself.
You should probably watch more televised sports.
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How old are you? That probably answers it.
For me, 1980 Olympic hockey against Russial will always be it, even though it wasn't live. No Internet then so few people knew what had happened.
Today was pretty awesome, however.
I'm 30.
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Christian Laetnner hitting the shot against Kentucky is my first great sports memory.
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You should probably watch more televised sports.
Well my fiance thinks I should watch less, and my DirecTV bill is proof I probably watch too much. :P
As for this moment, I was trying to think back in the last 20 or so years I have been watching sports on TV (i'm 30) that I jumped uncontrollably in my living room up and down, where my heart was pumping uncontrollably fast. Probably less then 10 moments.
No baseball game has ever done that, a handful of MU games, the LeBron shot from 35 ft. last year was pretty incredible, if I was a Jordan/Bulls fan I imagine some of his Finals moments may have gotten to me. The Desmond Howard performance in the SB is up there...
So make fun of me all you want.
USA! USA! USA!
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US vs. Ghana on Saturday. 2 o'clock.
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US vs. Ghana on Saturday. 2 o'clock.
I'm guessing there will be strong crowd support for the lone-remaining African team (unless Ivory Coast pulls off a win for the ages).
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Guys, this World Cup has been simply awesome for me, and yesterday was no exception. But why take my word for it, since an AP reporter was at The Highbury in Bay View with us and his coverage was used for an ESPN.com article...
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5319743/ce/us/us-wins-game-group-whole-lot-new-fans?cc=5901&ver=us
I suppose you can still take my word for it, since some of my quotes are used near the end (Bykowski). I'll be back at Highbury wearing my Donovan shirt yet again on Saturday. Landon has scored every time I wore it. We have a very realistic chance of getting to the semifinals. Ghana will certainly be a challenge, and there's no doubt that Uruguay especially would pose a stern test in the quarterfinals.
Coolest moment of the Cup for me so far, driving home from the Slovenia match on I-94, a car pulled up alongside me and a 7 or 8 year old kid leaned out the window and started screaming "USA-USA-USA". For my money, even though we weren't through yet at that point, that was a truly transcendent sports moment, seeing soccer reaching our populace.
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Italy is out. Wow.
I certainly like our quarter of the bracket (USA/Ghana/South Korea/Uraguay) better than England's (England/Germany/Argentina/Mexico). I hope we continue to play well and take advantage of the comparatively favorable draw. At this point, any team can beat any other team in a single game (right Italy?).
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Italy is out. Wow.
Italy did not deserve to advance. They looked horribly slow today against Slovakia, (and for much of the WC), for 80 min of that match.
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The round of 16 is looking very interesting.
If the favorites hold out, you will likely have a "non-traditional" team v. a traditional power in each semifinal
For instance on one side, Uruguay, Korea, the US or Ghana will be a semifinalist. But Brazil may have to play Spain in the first round with the winner likely facing the Netherlands in a quarterfinal.
On the otherside, we know about Germany, England and Argentina. On that same side, it could be Chile, Paraguay, Portugal and Japan.
It will be nice to see some new faces.
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Italy is out. Damn. My daughter's high school choir just landed in Rome for an 8 day concert tour. Hope the riots don't get too out of hand.
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I went to last night's Dodgers - Angels game (Go Halos!) and during the 3rd inning break they showed the winning goal, both Angels and Dodger fans going crazy. Brought chills in the stadium.
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The other thing that appears intriguing is that there could conceivably be an all-South American semifinal. Uruguay and Argentina have looked good, Brazil is Brazil, though they would draw the Dutch in the quarters, and Paraguay and/or Chile haven't been slouches either. Chile, however, has a lot of work to do against Spain without two of its starters (yellow cards) to get a draw since Switzerland may put up 2 or 3 on Honduras tomorrow.
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couple links to fire you up
The World's Reaction to Landon Donovan's goal (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbn3rOPmR9w&feature=player_embedded#!) (HT: Chili)
Unofficial US Soccer Anthem - "Represent" by Weezer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7nCt6vWOxQ)
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The reaction video gives me chills.
1pm CST tomorrow correct?
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The reaction video gives me chills.
1pm CST tomorrow correct?
Coverage starts at 2pm EST, kickoff at 2:30pm
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Pathetic early defense. Weak goal. Nice shot, but uncontested. Ghana is the aggressor. US has started slow in every game, but once again they need to end the cranial rectum insertion.
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After outplaying Ghana for the entire second half, a completely brain dead play by the defense. Beautiful goal, though.
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Just when soccer starts to pull me in, the pathetic, embarrassing dives by these players just pushes me away again. Why does this have to be part of the game? I don't know what to call it other than embarrassing. They aren't remotely believable, yet the time still keeps ticking and the ref does nothing. And the stupid little time wasters that "any team in that position would do the same". Then change the fricken rules. Here's an idea. Have a start/stop switch on the clock.
That game was like eating a great meal at a nice restaurant and when dessert comes out it's a nice moldy piece of cake.
Oh well, wake me up in 4 years and I will watch again.
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Just when soccer starts to pull me in, the pathetic, embarrassing dives by these players just pushes me away again. Why does this have to be part of the game? I don't know what to call it other than embarrassing. They aren't remotely believable, yet the time still keeps ticking and the ref does nothing. And the stupid little time wasters that "any team in that position would do the same". Then change the fricken rules. Here's an idea. Have a start/stop switch on the clock.
That game was like eating a great meal at a nice restaurant and when dessert comes out it's a nice moldy piece of cake.
Oh well, wake me up in 4 years and I will watch again.
I was just talking about the same thing. Two reasons soccer will never be big in this country. First, we are capitalists. We are putting out a poor product on the field and no one will buy. If we put a good product on the field, we would buy. Second, americans are hard nosed and appreciate "tough guys". Soccer players are the biggest nancies on the face of this Earth. And the issue is that the game encourages dives. I don't mind falling down. We all know players flop to try and force a call BUT GET BACK UP. The rolling around on the ground screaming bloody murder and then getting up and running around for another 30 minutes is where I cringe. Sorry soccer. Just not made for Americans.
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We are putting out a poor product on the field and no one will buy. If we put a good product on the field, we would buy.
I don't have a problem with the American team. In fact, when I realized Steve Cherundalo was the little brother of a girl in my sister's class back in grade school and high school, I was really pulling for him/them really hard. I don't no better, but they seemed to be on the same level as the other teams.
It is just some of the things that are "part of the game" that annoy me to no end and keep me from being all in.
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I was just talking about the same thing. Two reasons soccer will never be big in this country. First, we are capitalists. We are putting out a poor product on the field and no one will buy. If we put a good product on the field, we would buy. Second, americans are hard nosed and appreciate "tough guys". Soccer players are the biggest nancies on the face of this Earth. And the issue is that the game encourages dives. I don't mind falling down. We all know players flop to try and force a call BUT GET BACK UP. The rolling around on the ground screaming bloody murder and then getting up and running around for another 30 minutes is where I cringe. Sorry soccer. Just not made for Americans.
The reality is that soccer players are actually tough as nails, but they go through these faux charades to try and get sympathy and fouls. It's unneeded, but these guys aren't really hurt on the field. That's the sad part about it.
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They flop like the Badgers and whine like Bo Ryan.
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I don't have a problem with the American team. In fact, when I realized Steve Cherundalo was the little brother of a girl in my sister's class back in grade school and high school, I was really pulling for him/them really hard. I don't no better, but they seemed to be on the same level as the other teams.
It is just some of the things that are "part of the game" that annoy me to no end and keep me from being all in.
They aren't that good. To put it in perspective, Donavan is touted as the best US player ever and he probably isn't a top 20 player in the world. Here is a comparison. Champions League = NBA and MLS = Euro Basketball. I think only 5 US players play in the Champions League. And I don't think any of them play on an elite team. That's like Basketball in the Olympics where the US is going against Poland and US's whole team is in the NBA while Poland might have only a couple of players from the NBA. The skill level is not even close. I think the MLS is helping the US cultivate talent but it is not in the same ballpark.
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Tough loss. Back to the drwing board, I guess. You'd have to be a lot younger than me to have any real expectation of seeing a US World Cup championship in your lifetime.
I mean a men's team World Cup championship of course. Thank God for the women's national team.
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They aren't that good. To put it in perspective, Donavan is touted as the best US player ever and he probably isn't a top 20 player in the world. Here is a comparison. Champions League = NBA and MLS = Euro Basketball. I think only 5 US players play in the Champions League. And I don't think any of them play on an elite team. That's like Basketball in the Olympics where the US is going against Poland and US's whole team is in the NBA while Poland might have only a couple of players from the NBA. The skill level is not even close. I think the MLS is helping the US cultivate talent but it is not in the same ballpark.
Donovan may not be top 20, but I would certainly put him in the top 50, and when you consider the number of leagues there are, that's not too shabby. Had we won today, he would have been a lock for the World Cup All-Star team, and may still get on it with his three goals and brilliance in the midfield. He's probably been one of the five best players at this tournament, along with Diego Forlan, David Villa, Javier Mascherano, and Mesut Ozil.
While we don't have anyone in the top teams, add a big *yet* asterisk to that. Michael Bradley is rumored to be headed for Arsenal. Tim Howard and Landon Donovan could both find themselves the subject of transfer rumors in the coming months. Jozy Altidore's solid season for Hull, coupled with good play here could get him a chance to actually play for Villarreal if they move the Jersey traitor, Giuseppe Rossi. Considering the sport scarcely existed here 20 years ago, that's not bad.
Tough loss. Back to the drwing board, I guess. You'd have to be a lot younger than me to have any real expectation of seeing a US World Cup championship in your lifetime.
I mean a men's team World Cup championship of course. Thank God for the women's national team.
I would say it depends on how old you are. 20 years ago, Paul Caligiari hit a wonder-goal against Trinidad & Tobago just to get us to qualify for Italia 1990. Now we are a lock to qualify in CONCACAF and are a constant in the FIFA's top 20 rankings. We're not yet a major power, but my expectation is that by 2030, we will have won our first World Cup. I think that if we don't do it as host nation in 2022 (expect us to win the bid) that we will have a great swell, similar to the early days of MLS only on a much bigger scale because this time the infrastructure for the sport is already in place, and we will take one of the next two, wherever they are played. If you're 70 or younger and in decent health, I think you have a decent sniff at seeing one.
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Oh, crap! You had me hooked until your last sentence. If that's true, I ain't gonna make it cuz I'm a very old Warrior. I watched George Andrie play split end for M. That's how old I am.
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Oh, crap! You had me hooked until your last sentence. If that's true, I ain't gonna make it cuz I'm a very old Warrior. I watched George Andrie play split end for M. That's how old I am.
Well, cross your fingers on 2018 or 2022 then. Neither are impossible, provided our continued development. We have talent in the pipeline. Give us a couple more Landon Donovan types in the next 8 years and we could challenge in England...provided we actually learn how to win on European soil between now and then.
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I played in high school on one of the top teams in the state of California. We played against Cobi Jones and Eric Wynalda. I thought Wynalda was the single greatest American player I went up against head to head, and that included Cobi. There just wasn't any talent around him to help. Part of the problem has been that even when we do come up with a very talented player, if you don't have complimentary players, doesn't do you a lot of good. It's like having a great QB but an offensive line that is so bad the QB is on his back all day.
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Athletes are also going to have to stick with soccer instead of migrating over to the other sports.
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I think that is the major thing holding us back and I believe Reilly did a piece on it. Our top athletes are in the NBA, NFL, and MLB whereas in Europe the sport of choice is soccer. I know Tirico was saying how shocking it must be when a country the size of Oregon with 1/10th the population beats the US, but in Ghana people are playing soccer like we used to play sandlot baseball or pickup basketball.
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Oh, crap! You had me hooked until your last sentence. If that's true, I ain't gonna make it cuz I'm a very old Warrior. I watched George Andrie play split end for M. That's how old I am.
I'm with you, By 2030 If I'm still around, I'll probably know that I like soccer but I won;t remember why!!
PS Remember Art Felker!
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http://deadspin.com/5574387/heres-the-lego-version-of-usa+ghana-youve-been-dreading
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NEDERLAND!
That is all.
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Well, this World Cup just got a lot more interesting. :o
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I have never seen a team as skilled as Brazil completely lose their sh*t like that. What is Melo thinking?
Oranjie Oranjie Oranjie!
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I have never seen a team as skilled as Brazil completely lose their sh*t like that.
Until Germany-Argentina today. Wowza. Total domination.
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germany has looked fantastic.
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"Football is a simple game; 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans win."
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Holanda aka Paies Bajos aka Netherlands aka Holland looks goooooood
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Holanda aka Paies Bajos aka Netherlands aka Holland looks goooooood
Aka Oranjie
I think this is all because of the orange mini-dress promotion.
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Aka Oranjie
I think this is all because of the orange mini-dress promotion.
Or this lovely lady. HUP HUP indeed 8-)
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/63/189197863_ac230e6c71.jpg)
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Anyone looking for a good feed, here ya go...no sound (unless you speak Spanish of course, great quality.)
http://futbol.univision.com/fifacopamundial/partidos-en-vivo
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"Football is a simple game; 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes and at the end, the Germans win."
unless, of course, Spain is playing Germany
/gratuitous self-quote
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Poll added
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i wonder who Paul has in the 3rd place game, i feel like placing a bet.
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i wonder who Paul has in the 3rd place game, i feel like placing a bet.
I'm expecting that third place game to be way more entertaining than the actual title game. Two free-wheeling sides with plenty of attacking options and no one suspended. And if Lugano is out for Uruguay, it will only open up the pitch even further.
God help us if Spain scores in the first half. Could lead to the most dull 45 minutes of pass-around the World Cup has ever seen. I really hope the Dutch score first in the final, regardless who wins it will be more interesting with Holland on top early.
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paul picked germany and spain. Btw the spain pick for the title was his fastest pick yet.
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Diego Forlan is amazing.
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Go Holland, the motherland
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Pulling for Oranje today, but expecting Spain to win. Would love to see the Dutch get a first half goal to make it interesting, though I doubt it will be anything near the adventurous free-for-all we saw yesterday. That third place match was simply fantastic. Both teams came from behind to take the lead, Forlan was extraordinary (Golden Ball imo), and a 20-year-old took the lead for the Golden Shoe.
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That was one boring game
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Chippy, ugly, easily could have been 3-4 red cards during regulation. The one that WAS called turned the game, though Spain had been dominating for awhile. i started out rooting for the Orange, but they committed so many ugly fouls early that I switched. Unfortunately, I think this game will be remembered for the number of fouls and missed opportunities.
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Xavi and Inesta were fantastic throughout the tournament.
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Xavi and Inesta were fantastic throughout the tournament.
No doubt. Was a just ending that Iniesta bagged the winner.
BTW, thought Howard Webb was fantastic today. De Jong should have seen a straight red, but beyond that I thought he was really good. Kept a game in check that could have spiraled out of control.
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No doubt. Was a just ending that Iniesta bagged the winner.
BTW, thought Howard Webb was fantastic today. De Jong should have seen a straight red, but beyond that I thought he was really good. Kept a game in check that could have spiraled out of control.
Couldn't disagree more.
There's no doubt the Dutch were the aggressors but Webb created an environment where acting was always going to win out (well, except for Robben who will always be eyed with suspicion) and Spain took advantage of that as the game reached the deep stages.
As for Iniesta, he is a fantastic player. Completely underrated in the shadow of Xavi. That said, he spent more time diving yesterday then in an entire campaign in La Liga. And he should have been booked for the petulant hip check he put on Van Bommel, which ironically came directly in front of Mr. Police Sargent Webb who chose to ignore it. Not the only action he ignored.
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Second yellow totally uncalled for and we saw more diving from Spain than Robben who had a terrific World Cup. Spain clearly was the better team and it was a fitting win .
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The Germany - Uruguay match was the most exciting of the whole tourney imho.
We need to find a way to get Forlan or Mueller to defect.
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all the commentators put on apologists masks for that game, but i didnt think that was necessary. sometimes i like watching a game with two entirely different styles/strategies/skill levels, even if it means the game doesnt have remarkable up and down flow and pageantry. i thought that from a competitive point of view, watching the Dutch tow the line between physical-disruptive-admittedly dirty soccer but not get sent off and see how for the end of the 1st through the middle of the 2nd they were totally in the spaniards' heads was really interesting. sure it didnt end 3-2 or anything, but a close watching made for what i thought was an intriguing game with the dutch forced to play with fire strategically.
that being said, I thought Webb did a pretty okay job, the Dutch were bound to be viewed with suspicion - their strategy necessitated it. I didn't like booking Robben for complaining, but beyond that thought he did a pretty solid job.
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I can't remember who got the card for the dutch, but the dive by Iniesta was beyond obvious. There was zero contact.
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There will always be bad decisions in the course of a match. And I agree that Iniesta should have been booked for diving rather than the Dutch player being cautioned.
Unfortunately from the get go the Dutch forced him into tough decisions with their cynical tactics. I believe it was van Bommel that came straight through, high and studs up and took out a Spanish player. He could have easily seen red.
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There will always be bad decisions in the course of a match. And I agree that Iniesta should have been booked for diving rather than the Dutch player being cautioned.
Unfortunately from the get go the Dutch forced him into tough decisions with their cynical tactics. I believe it was van Bommel that came straight through, high and studs up and took out a Spanish player. He could have easily seen red.
It was De Jong, and that was ridiculous. As has been stated, I don't have a ton of problems with the officiating compared to some of the other games, but Iniesta going down like he had been shot all game was just absurd, and was rewarded all game. Even Robben, a fairly accomplished diver in his own right (who i dislike for that and his whining even though I love the Dutch), looked like a rugged competitor compared to some of that crap.
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Couldn't disagree more.
There's no doubt the Dutch were the aggressors but Webb created an environment where acting was always going to win out (well, except for Robben who will always be eyed with suspicion) and Spain took advantage of that as the game reached the deep stages.
As for Iniesta, he is a fantastic player. Completely underrated in the shadow of Xavi. That said, he spent more time diving yesterday then in an entire campaign in La Liga. And he should have been booked for the petulant hip check he put on Van Bommel, which ironically came directly in front of Mr. Police Sargent Webb who chose to ignore it. Not the only action he ignored.
Webb created an environment? How, pray tell?
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The Globe, has a great photo series, called the big picture, here is there take on the WC 2010. Very cool stuff
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/07/2010_world_cup_comes_to_a_clos.html
My favorite:
(http://inapcache.boston.com/universal/site_graphics/blogs/bigpicture/wc2010_07_12/w08_24098813.jpg)
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Webb created an environment? How, pray tell?
Quite simply, when Webb allowed the first 15 minutes to roam free and then went on a yellow card orgy over the next 15 minutes it gave the competitors two minds to play. With that orgy, it sent the signal that the game was heating up and Webb wouldn't shy from booking people. Of course, given the angles of play and the speed of the game, this opens the possibility for exaggerated reactions and creative gamesmanship.
Both sides were guilty of embellishment but the Spanish did so better as evidenced by Iniesta diving to get van Der Wiel booked and then going down with an unreachable ball to get Heitinga's second booking and the sending off.