NationStates Jolt Archive

Not long now!

Yesterday night Australia beat Greece 1:0 in Melbourne (home to the largest Greek community outside Greece).
They played well. In the first half they were clearly the better team, and should have scored more. I felt they had trouble actually creating chances, even though they were able to put a lot of pressure on the Greeks - the one goal was from a corner.

In the second half the Greeks turned it up, and I was really impressed with the way the Australians withstood that pressure and kept the opposition away from their goal. That was Guus Hiddink's touch, because I've seen them play before he became coach, and they invariably collapsed in these situations.

Match Fitness was perhaps an issue, but then they'd been training twice a day eversince they all arrived here for the training camps, so that would've taken its toll on that game.

They play Holland in the Netherlands Sunday next week - and that will be an interesting game. They might lose, but I think they'll raise a few eyebrows.

Post reports on what you see and think about the teams in these last few days here. I want to be fully informed about every team's details.

I can hardly type I'm sooo fuckin' excited!

Not long now!

I know! :eek:

Post reports on what you see and think about the teams in these last few days here. I want to be fully informed about every team's details.

Amen to that. SERIOUS amen. I want to hear everything. Anyone who is unlucky enough to stumble across this thread will become my news-slave. I hope that is crystal clear. Don't try and leave without giving me updates!

And Australia! I am SO looking forward to their games! More so than any other! With Hiddink behind the wheel, I'm hoping to see these guys head straight to the top! Okay, maybe that's hoping a bit much, but man, if they do...! I'll probably just snap, in all honesty. I'll be clinically insane, that's all I can say.

But I'm having trouble finding the Socceroo's games on television. Then again, I'm in Canada, so that's understandable. Understanding it does not relieve the royal pissing off that is occuring, however. What network do you catch these guys on? Or, rather, help ME find what network I can catch these guys on. I don't want to miss a single game...including the friendlies, although I've already missed some, which is annoying. (A huge thanks to Neu Leonstein here for filling me in on the highlights of that game versus Greece, by the way. ;) )

Keep the info coming! :D

Germany's been busy meanwhile playing warmup games against Swiss sides.

Won 2:1 against Geneva, and 12:0 against Geneva's U-18 Team. Yay!

Oh, and Ballack hurt his ancle and won't be training for two days or so.

Why did Ballack have to sign with Chelsea....HE was great with Bayren Munich (my fav team).

Yeah, cant wait for the world cup. I hope Australia do well, but the odds are agaisnst us.:mp5:

England lost 2-1 to Belarus. Fucking A. :rolleyes: And our 3rd choice keeper got injured.

And our 3rd choice keeper got injured.
That was hilarious! How the hell did he do that to himself?!

Fell on his pay packet I bet.

That was hilarious! How the hell did he do that to himself?!
Ruptured his groin taking a goal kick. Then Belarus scored while he was lying on the ground quite clearly in agony.

Terribly unsporting!

I've only watched two world cups (Was two young to rember '94, which we didnt qualify for anyway) And I'm already jaded enough that I'm not even considering the possibility that England will do anything. Except loose in an unusual fashion.

Sweden doesn't even have a regular right-side defender, and the team is incredibly weak without the so called Superswedes (:rolleyes:) Zlatan, Ljungberg and Larsson. Midfield is looking better though, Källström is just getting better and better. However, we played Finland 0-0 (the backup team, but still), so not much to be happy about. Kinda funny that only Trinidad & Tobago had any real "spies" there though...

Woohooo!!!!
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gifhttp://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gifhttp://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gifhttp://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gifhttp://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gif

Here's a link to a soccer song:

http://www.db.de/site/wm2006/de/bahntage__wm/raabe__wm__song/raabe__wm__song.html

(Video at the bottom of the page)

No offense Nightmare, but I found that... silly. Not very unusual for WC songs, I guess.

I cant freakin wait. 2 more weeks! USA! USA!

No offense Nightmare, but I found that... silly. Not very unusual for WC songs, I guess.
That wasn't silly, but this is:

http://www.prosieben.de/music_cd/videos/popup_video/24271/index.php?ausgabe=play&rate=hi&video=/music_cd/videos/popup_video/24271/
Oliver Pocher - Schwarz und Weiß

But okay, I take it you want some more rocky tune, huh?

http://www.prosieben.de/music_cd/videos/popup_video/25506/index.php?ausgabe=play&rate=hi&video=/music_cd/videos/popup_video/25506/
Sportfreunde Stiller - '54, '74, '90, 2006

Which is - of course - the Klinsmann-formula. Don't believe me?

Check this out:

54 x 74 - 1990 = 2006 http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/german.gif

I do wonder what France will be able to do during this world cup. After being World Champions in 1998 and World Ridiculous in 2002 (honestly ! world champions not even able to pass the first round !! Not even being able to score only one goal !! :headbang: )...

Still, i don't have much hopes, as it seems that the french staff chose to try to replay 1998 with most of the same players. And the two goalkeepers arguing ! Talk about team spirit...

At least, this time, it won't take too long to go back home, since it's in Germany... :D

And the two goalkeepers arguing ! Talk about team spirit...
It would've been a bigger problem if the midfielders or such were arguing. At least the goalkeepers can't keep bitching off on the field...

bump

Why did Ballack have to sign with Chelsea....HE was great with Bayren Munich (my fav team).
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,418059,00.html

An interview with Ballack.

Latest results (if anyone saw the games, please do tell):

Holland v Cameroon (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/holland/5023582.stm), 1:0
Germany v Luxembourg (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5023580.stm), 7:0
France v Mexico (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/france/5023578.stm), 1:0
Wales v Trinidad & Tobago (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/5004566.stm), 2:1

And Huth got hurt. (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5024128.stm)

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say Holland wasn't playing their standard lineup.

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say Holland wasn't playing their standard lineup.

The limb broke:

The line up was:
1 Edwin Van der Sar
12 Jan Kromkamp
4 Joris Mathijsen
13 Andre Ooijer
5 Giovanni Van Bronckhorst
8 Phillip Cocu
20 Wesley Sneijder
18 Mark Van Bommel
11 Arjen Robben
9 Ruud van Nistelrooy
17 Robin Van Persie

with the following substitutions made

R van Nistelrooy for D Kuijt (76)
P Cocu for D Landzaat (78)
A Robben for R Babel (82)
source (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/match?id=197094&cc=3888)

Pretty much a full strength side. The Camaroons are good.

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say Holland wasn't playing their standard lineup.
I think they did. At least van Basten said he would play them.

http://netherlands.worldcupblog.org/1/ned-1-0-cam-ft.html

Yeah sure, but I thought the dutch would be better than that result... then again, I don't know the full story and I've been bombarded with orange propaganda by my sister's boyfriend.

http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,418059,00.html

An interview with Ballack.

Danke:) .

Danke:) .
It might also be interesting to note that Borowski apparently played really well in the game against Luxembourg, and is now confirmed as a full-fledged backup to Ballack should something happen. He plays pretty much the same position - so perhaps the overreliance of the team on Ballack is not as great as it once was.

Yeah sure, but I thought the dutch would be better than that result... then again, I don't know the full story and I've been bombarded with orange propaganda by my sister's boyfriend.

The Dutch always underachieve. They didn't even make it to the last World Cup, and that was also a very strong team.Probably fall at the group stage this time round.

Cameroon are very good, and it was a shock they didn't make it this year.

Some questions from someone who hasn't watched any soccer since the last World Cup..

1. When's it start?
2. Who's in the tournament?
3. Do the Germans still have Oliver Kahn (sp?) He was funny.
4. Does the U.S. team (if there is one) still have that little guy? He was funny too.

I know I could research this stuff, but with so many here who know this stuff from memory, I thought I'd just ask, and probably get more accurate andwers that way anyway. :)

DEUTSCHLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

:D

Some questions from someone who hasn't watched any soccer since the last World Cup..

1. When's it start?
2. Who's in the tournament?
3. Do the Germans still have Oliver Kahn (sp?) He was funny.
4. Does the U.S. team (if there is one) still have that little guy? He was funny too.

I know I could research this stuff, but with so many here who know this stuff from memory, I thought I'd just ask, and probably get more accurate andwers that way anyway. :)

1. June 9th
2. 32 teams - you really want that we list them all. This page (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/default.stm) has details
3. Yes, but he is reserve to Lehman.
4. They are there, yes, but who do you mean?

DEUTSCHLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

:D
That's better.

3. Yes, but he is reserve to Lehman.
4. They are there, yes, but who do you mean?

Aha, thanks for the link. I'm not sure of the name of the guy, except that he was the runt of the team (of the entire 2002 tournament maybe) and was basically the star forward (I think that's what it's called) for the U.S. team 4 years back. I basically cheer for whichever team has the most animated/amusing goalkeeper, but I liked this guy too.

Anyone know if any of the games are going to be broadcast in English this time? Not that I mind Telemundo, but my Spanish is kinda mediocre..

Aha, thanks for the link. I'm not sure of the name of the guy, except that he was the runt of the team (of the entire 2002 tournament maybe) and was basically the star forward (I think that's what it's called) for the U.S. team 4 years back. I basically cheer for whichever team has the most animated/amusing goalkeeper, but I liked this guy too.

Anyone know if any of the games are going to be broadcast in English this time? Not that I mind Telemundo, but my Spanish is kinda mediocre..
Can't help you there. Being an Englishman living in Brazil, I don't keep up with USA team info or TV transmission details.

Anyone know if any of the games are going to be broadcast in English this time? Not that I mind Telemundo, but my Spanish is kinda mediocre..

The broadcast through Spanish in Germany now? :eek:

The broadcast through Spanish in Germany now? :eek:

Naw, I'm in California.. you have to watch the Spanish (Mexican/Mexican-American) channels to see any World Cup games here. Unless the U.S. team makes the semifinals or better, in which case the major networks might play it, but I don't think that's likely.

Aha, thanks for the link. I'm not sure of the name of the guy, except that he was the runt of the team (of the entire 2002 tournament maybe) and was basically the star forward (I think that's what it's called) for the U.S. team 4 years back.
Might have been Josh Wolff, he's 175cm, the shortest US striker this tournament...

Unless the U.S. team makes the semifinals or better, in which case the major networks might play it, but I don't think that's likely.
Here in Oz, SBS shows every single game (in English) and SBS Radio does parallel broadcasts in other languages. So you can turn off the sound of the TV and listen to the radio commentary...

Here in Oz, SBS shows every single game (in English) and SBS Radio does parallel broadcasts in other languages. So you can turn off the sound of the TV and listen to the radio commentary...

Makes sense, since you have a significant number of soccer fans over there.. the number is kinda less significant here. ESPN will probably be playing re-runs of the Poker World Series during the games here. :(

Makes sense, since you have a significant number of soccer fans over there..
No kidding! It's really taken off here.

When Oz played, the crowd was 95,103 people. Highest turnout ever for a football match in the country, and the highest ever at the new MCG (which hosted the commonwealth games as well as big cricket matches and dozens of AFL matches).

Guus is right when he says that Football is going to become the major code here.

When Oz played, the crowd was 95,103 people. Highest turnout ever for a football match in the country, and the highest ever at the new MCG (which hosted the commonwealth games as well as big cricket matches and dozens of AFL matches).

95,113. And I was one of them.

Dammit...Canada doesn't like soccer enough, so, well, it looks like I'm going to have to adopt another country as my own. I'm moving to Australia! Football's where it's at, and I'm not talking about futbol de Americanos! :D

Go Socceroos! YEAH!

Well, I'm glad I don't live in Spain where the new free to air channel (Le Sesta i think) has bought the rights, but, and this is the catch, they can only reach 2/3 of the population as they don't have enough transmitters.

Ouch.


And Wales 2:1 Tinidad and Tabago (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/5004566.stm) was a dull match, although Trini did look dangerous every now and again. You just watch Chris Birchal score a 25 yarder against England to put us out in the group stage :(


In other news Terry Venables has turned down Middlesbrough (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/middlesbrough/5005250.stm) offering him the managers job, and some say he will be an advisor/assistant to Steve Maclaren when the latter is England manager.

Spain 0-0 Russia (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/spain/5023594.stm)

and

Italy hopeful over Totti (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/italy/5024234.stm)

Update on the Unofficial World Champions (Uruguay) - they drew 1-1 with Serbia & Montenegro, thus retaining their status. Their next match is against Libya this week sometime.

When Oz played, the crowd was 95,103 people. Highest turnout ever for a football match in the country, and the highest ever at the new MCG (which hosted the commonwealth games as well as big cricket matches and dozens of AFL matches).
Not true. ~104,000 saw the Spain v Cameroon match at Stadium Australia in 2000.

Guus is right when he says that Football is going to become the major code here.
We'll see what happens once the World Cup's over. You may be right, but it's not the first time that claim's been made (and not just for soccer).

DIE NIEDERLANDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

:D
Indeed:p

Please don't laugh, as I know absolutely nothing about soccer....... Answer 2 questions for me....

1. Does the US have any chance whatsoever??

2. Is that guy with the braids and little green and white beads going to be playing for Nigeria???

Please don't laugh, as I know absolutely nothing about soccer....... Answer 2 questions for me....

1. Does the US have any chance whatsoever??

2. Is that guy with the braids and little green and white beads going to be playing for Nigeria???
1: No
2: Nigeria doesn't compete this time.

2. Is that guy with the braids and little green and white beads going to be playing for Nigeria???

Taribo West, I think has retired from International football. :confused:

Please don't laugh, as I know absolutely nothing about soccer....... Answer 2 questions for me....

1. Does the US have any chance whatsoever??

2. Is that guy with the braids and little green and white beads going to be playing for Nigeria???
1. You've got a difficult group, so it's unlikely you'll make it out of there. At best you'll finish 2nd, and so play (most likely) Brazil in the next round. So no, you've got no chance.

2. Taribo West has retired, and Nigeria aren't in it...so unlikely.

DEUTSCHLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

:D
http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gif http://www.frenchapartment.org/smilies/flag_german.gif http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gif

Indeed:p

As much as I love the Netherlands and its scandalous ways...

GERMANY RAWKS MY SAWKS!!!!

;)

Japan will not only make it out of their killer first round, but will make it to the final eight, at least. *nods*

Japan will not only make it out of their killer first round, but will make it to the final eight, at least. *nods*
Might be a bit difficult, especially since they're in Brazils group. Let's see... Comes 2nd in group, faces Italy/Czech Rep/US (not too sure about that group), makeable with some luck I guess...

Might be a bit difficult, especially since they're in Brazils group. Let's see... Comes 2nd in group, faces Italy/Czech Rep/US (not too sure about that group), makeable with some luck I guess...

Almost certain to face the Czech republic (given the current state of Italian football). They are unlikely to win that one, the Czechs are a good team at the moment.

I think that England is overated, everybody here thinks england is so cool, but they dont "gel" together well. Personally, I like the US, Brazil, and France, Henry is due for a lot of goals.

Just to remind everyone that there is a NS Fantasy World Cup competition set up. See this thread. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=483246)

Brazil are overrated, but any team that has the rating they have would be.

Not true. ~104,000 saw the Spain v Cameroon match at Stadium Australia in 2000.
At the Olympic Games? Not sure whether that counts...:p

http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gif http://www.frenchapartment.org/smilies/flag_german.gif http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gifhttp://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/klatsch.gif

Bist du auch Deutschland? :D (Referring to your famous ad - Du bist Deustchland)

I'll probably be supporting Germany too because neither Sweden nor Netherlands got much chance I think...

You know what I want to see? Australia. And lots of it. I am laying down ALL my chips on them coming in first! They'll beat Croatia, they'll beat Japan, and they'll even beat Brazil. A tall order, to be sure, but I'm rooting for those guys all the way. Go Aussies!:D

Also, Ghana killed off Jamaica 4:1.

And England are playing a friendly against Hungary soon.

Any bets?

I'll say 1:1. :p

I'm really looking forward to Australia's warm up game against the Dutch. I think it will be a good indicator of how we're travelling.

The Socceroos will have their asses kicked... :D

Mind you, Australia is absolutely my fourth-favourite team!!! (after Holland, Italy and Trinidad).

And France or Germany arent gonna get anywhere. Brazil again... :(

I'm really looking forward to Australia's warm up game against the Dutch. I think it will be a good indicator of how we're travelling.

Yeah me also, I hope to watch some of it too.

The Socceroos will have their asses kicked... :D

They will NOT! :(

But even if they somehow, miraculously, lose, I have a few backup favorite teams myself. Japan and Spain, all the way! Well, most of the way. Only the Aussies are allowed to really go ALL all the way. :p

They will NOT! :(

But even if they somehow, miraculously, lose, I have a few backup favorite teams myself. Japan and Spain, all the way! Well, most of the way. Only the Aussies are allowed to really go ALL all the way. :p
yes, they will

Go Holland:D

The Socceroos will have their asses kicked... :D

yes, they will

Oooo...just you guys wait 'till they're cheering with the cup high over their heads! It'll happen one day!

Oooo...just you guys wait 'till they're cheering with the cup high over their heads! It'll happen one day!
Yes, after a six time consecutive win by the Dutch:p

Yes, after a six time consecutive win by the Dutch:p

Yeah, but the Dutch wins will be so boring and bland compared to that one Australian win that no one will remember or care! :D

(Assumption based on the theory that everyone thinks exactly as I do, which is pretty reasonable.)

Yeah, but the Dutch wins will be so boring and bland compared to that one Australian win that no one will remember or care! :D

(Assumption based on the theory that everyone thinks exactly as I do, which is pretty reasonable.)
Yeah, because it''s the first and last thing Australia is going to win, ever.:p

Yeah, because it''s the first and last thing Australia is going to win, ever.:p

Nah, after the six consecutive Dutch wins, Australia'll win a good dozen Cups or so. :D

If anything the Aussies will play bland. They've got Hiddink on the bench for God 's sake.

If anything the Aussies will play bland. They've got Hiddink on the bench for God 's sake.

Hiddink GOT them to the Cup this year! He's broken 32 years of failure! I think he's earned his keep. :p

England vs Hungary

England: Robinson, G Neville, A Cole, Terry, Ferdinand, Carragher, Gerrard, Lampard, Beckham, J Cole, Owen. Subs to follow.

Carragher to play a holding midfield role. It is one way of getting our best players on the field I suppose.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5029634.stm

Well, England won 3:1.

I feel sad...

Also,

Cote d'Ivoire v Chile (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/ivory_coast/5032008.stm) 1:1

and (goddammit, but I suppose you have to read the article)

Germany v Japan (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/5032108.stm) 2:2

Oh, and also Germany-related news:

Costa Rica lost to the Czechs 0:1, and Poland lost to Columbia 1:2 (the Columbian goal keeper scored...from his own goal!).

And Argentina beat Angola 2:0.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5029634.stm

Well, England won 3:1.

I feel sad...

Also,

Cote d'Ivoire v Chile (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/ivory_coast/5032008.stm) 1:1

and (goddammit, but I suppose you have to read the article)

Germany v Japan (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/5032108.stm) 2:2

The Germany v Japan one is a very interesting result, I would have expected the Germans to be stronger than that. I'm really looking forward to the Aussies pitting themselves against the Japanese our opening game.

Also looks like Rooney is definitely out of the cup, his broken foot is worse than originally thought.

Aussie won't preform at the World Cup.

They're just not good enough.

Aussie won't preform at the World Cup.

They're just not good enough.


Thats rich coming from a kiwi....Remind me how New Zealand did again?:p
(just stirring with ya)

Thats rich coming from a kiwi....Remind me how New Zealand did again?:p
(just stirring with ya)
All I care about is rugby to be honest lol.

Go the All Blacks.

All I care about is rugby to be honest lol.

Go the All Blacks.
Good on you mate:

Plus for England: Sensable formation-no more diomonds! 442 and 451 all the way, should be Carrack at DM tho
Crouchs performance
Becks performances
Walcotts first cap
3 goals
Terrys first cap
We didn't get mullered
No serious injurys

cons:
First 40 mins was like watching a dead, rancid duck hemmeroging
Them scoring
Nevells slight tweak of the Hamstring
Rooney not fit
Walcott didn't look like the second coming of Pele. But he didn't look bad.

Aussie won't preform at the World Cup.

They're just not good enough.

I don't think they'll get too far either, but I live in hope. :)

The Germany v Japan one is a very interesting result, I would have expected the Germans to be stronger than that.
I think everyone did. German media wasn't impressed.

The official line is
a) they tried a new formation
b) they came from weeks of a hard training camp (Kliensmann is using tough, physical techniques he got from the States)
c) the fact that they got back showed psychological strength.

Make of that what you will, if they play like that, they're not gonna go far.

And they told you classy football celebrations were dead...but no!

One man has put a stop to the rot...

One man brave enough to take ridecule...

He has honed his skills on dance floors across Liverpool and Posh and Becks house. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlfLx1HrOz4&search=peter%20crouch%20dancing)

Then one day after scoring for his country he reintroduced the gift of the 'Robot' to the masses.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr. Peter Crouch! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96eSrFlUVh0&search=peter%20crouch)

http://img304.imageshack.us/img304/6281/saturdaynightcrouch6ik.jpg

I think Spiegel is starting a series about every team.

Group A is first: Germany (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,418952,00.html), Costa Rica (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,418927,00.html), Equador (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,418947,00.html) and Poland (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,418959,00.html).

Lucerne 0-8 Brazil (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5033482.stm)

Good strong line up and plenty of goals to show for it.

Juninho Pernambucano will be a player to look out for.

This thread should be retitled, How to make a Thread that no Americans will care about or post in.

I find "watching" organized sport to be terribly boring.

It doesn't matter if it's world cup football, or American football, or golf.

It's insanely boring to watch sport. I've never sat through a whole game of any sort just watching.

This thread should be retitled, how to make a Thread and have no Americans participate in it.
No, "How To Make A Thread, and Have No "People Who Hate Watching Sport" Participate In It"

Except that sort of bypasses my underying point that the US hates soccor.

the U.S.A WONT make it out of the groups i mean Italy are world class, and even the Cech Republic are miles better then the states , i am sure Ghana would be even able to give them a game , i just goes to show that fifa rankings are a joke , north american and even some south american teams get just high rankings cause most of the teams in their confederation are crap, while in europe , you have lots of good teams ( almost too many now days ) i mean it looks like Montenegro well have their own team soon enough

Except that sort of bypasses my underying point that the US hates soccor.

It's not that the US hates soccer - it's that the average American could care less. They have other sports they like (which I find equally boring).

If the US was as interested in soccer as they are in football, I suppose you would be happier? Please be glad that they aren't overcommercializing it beyond all reckoning like they do with the US football and baseball and basketball.

im from the US, and i love soccer. im not sure i can make it another week, im so excited. I think the States can beat Italy, but the czechs is another story, will be a very hard game and can see the game going either way.

for all you other US soccer fans out there, every single game will be shown on either espn, espn2, or abc, which is pretty sweet, especially if you have HDTV...which i dont :(

Lucerne 0-8 Brazil (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5033482.stm)

Good strong line up and plenty of goals to show for it.

Juninho Pernambucano will be a player to look out for.
Who where they playinh Lucerne? Where the hells that?

Who where they playinh Lucerne? Where the hells that?

Lucerne is in Switzerland (although the German spelling is Luzern which is how I normally write it).

Apparently it was just a warm up game, nothing too serious. Do't know if they've played any other countries yet, although I'm pretty sure they've got some lined up.

It's on the lake next to its name.

http://www.henleyglobal.com/pics/swissmap2.gif

It's not that the US hates soccer - it's that the average American could care less. They have other sports they like (which I find equally boring).

If the US was as interested in soccer as they are in football, I suppose you would be happier? Please be glad that they aren't overcommercializing it beyond all reckoning like they do with the US football and baseball and basketball.
Most of the major sponsors of the World Cup are American companies - McDonalds, Coke, Mastercard (is it American?), Yahoo!, Gillette, Budweiser...

Though there's other ones like Toshiba, Adidas, Hyundai, Philips, so it's not entirely American. Football is overcommercialised - about 50% of tickets for this WC have gone to sponsors rather than fans.

I always wonder why so many people have to mention in a thread that they dont care about the subject at hand... Is that simple post-whoring or are they actually trying to make a point?
I mean, it is not as if the name of this (or most) threads leave anything to the imagination, does it? It is called "world cup". Guess what the topic is? It's the bloody World Cup. If you dont care, dont look at it!

Anyways, I reckon the US has a difficult group but they might just accidently end up making it through (e.g. Italy beats the Czech or the other way around and the US manages a draw against the loser...) And after all it's the World Cup! Anything can happen (remember SKorea....?)

Anything can happen. Except the Socceroos doing well. That would be ridiculous.

Anything can happen. Except the Socceroos doing well. That would be ridiculous.
Guus Hiddink:

with the Dutch in '98: Semi finals
with S Korea in '02: Semi finals
wit Australia in '06: Semi finals?:p

I always wonder why so many people have to mention in a thread that they dont care about the subject at hand... Is that simple post-whoring or are they actually trying to make a point?
I mean, it is not as if the name of this (or most) threads leave anything to the imagination, does it? It is called "world cup". Guess what the topic is? It's the bloody World Cup. If you dont care, dont look at it!
I think it's because it's the most watched sporting event in the world (possibly bar the Olympics) and while America are taking part the vast majority of the country just doesn't care - which out of all 32 countries in it is probably only true of America.

Anyways, I reckon the US has a difficult group but they might just accidently end up making it through (e.g. Italy beats the Czech or the other way around and the US manages a draw against the loser...) And after all it's the World Cup! Anything can happen (remember SKorea....?)
Japan/S. Korea was partially a result of America being slightly fortunate in their draw (unlike this time) and partially as a result of the climate being unsuitable for the majority of the European teams.

Anything can happen. Except the Socceroos doing well. That would be ridiculous.
Well...I could come up with a lot of things that aren't going to happen - Trinidad & Tobago aren't going to win it, for a start.

Guus Hiddink:

with the Dutch in '98: Semi finals
with S Korea in '02: Semi finals
wit Australia in '06: bottom of group

That's better.

don't worry it'll all be over soon

That's better.
Probably:p

I would like to see this:

Semi finals:
Holland vs Trinidad&Tobago
Australia vs South Korea
(find the connection between those countries;) )

Final:
Germany - Holland: 0-14

Probably:p

I would like to see this:

Semi finals:
Holland vs Trinidad&Tobago
Australia vs South Korea
(find the connection between those countries;) )

Final:
Germany - Holland: 0-14
Not entirely sure how you'd get a Germany - Holland final if Germany aren't in the semis...:p

Not entirely sure how you'd get a Germany - Holland final if Germany aren't in the semis...:p
Magic:)

well, it are the germans:eek:

Magic:)

well, it are the germans:eek:
You mean they'd cheat...not got any Schumacher's on the team, though ;)

You mean they'd cheat...not got any Schumacher's on the team, though ;)
Cheating? Well, yes...:p But it'd be fun:eek:

Probably:p

I would like to see this:

Semi finals:
Holland vs Trinidad&Tobago
Australia vs South Korea
(find the connection between those countries;) )

Final:
Germany - Holland: 0-14

LOL :D

And btw, dont underestimate the powers of Trinidad&Tobago!!! They may well...uhm...score a goal!

Maybe.

If they get a 5-minute head start in a match...
:cool:

ESPN has been advertising the world cup for a while now so if any Americans have cable turn it to that. Anyone with Fox Soccer Channel should get the games too.

And paint is drying on channel 55.

And paint is drying on channel 55.
Ah, crap, I don't have channel 55!:rolleyes:

Soccer bores me asleep in the offseason, but I'm all about World Cup when it's on. Dunno why. I think I'm just drawn to a frenzy.. and the ball is kinda hypnotic after 20 minutes or so..

Germany - Holland: 0-14
Oh, you just wait. We'll pull a France and get our old players back...like about '74, I'd say?

And the final result will be 15-14, Müller scores 14 times and puts that silly little pretender Ronaldo back in his place.

Oh, you just wait. We'll pull a France and get our old players back...like about '74, I'd say?

And the final result will be 15-14, Müller scores 14 times and puts that silly little pretender Ronaldo back in his place.
I wouldn't care who's in the final if it ends 15-14. That'd be a frikkin' brilliant match. Or a completely incompetent showing by both teams' defences. But, as it's the World Cup final, I imagine it'd be the former.

Italy are going to win it...

barring any ersatz red cards or spitting incidents...

hehe

LOL :D

And btw, dont underestimate the powers of Trinidad&Tobago!!! They may well...uhm...score a goal!

Maybe.

If they get a 5-minute head start in a match...
:cool:

if they got a 5-minute head start, they'd use it to sit down on the pitch and smoke pot

could you blame them?

"Yo, Stern John, check out all those drooling fans... should we blow it their way?"
hehe

When I was in the UK, I found out that if a man doesn't have Sky, he can't watch most sport unless he goes to a friend's house or the pub.

And if it's a big match, you have to pay for Sky Extra (second tier).

In the UK, how did you all sign over everything to Murdoch that you already had in the BBC?

As an additional question, if you're in the UK now, do you have to have Sky Extra to see the World Cup games? (I think I can guess the answer, but I want to see).

When I was in the UK, I found out that if a man doesn't have Sky, he can't watch most sport unless he goes to a friend's house or the pub.

And if it's a big match, you have to pay for Sky Extra (second tier).

In the UK, how did you all sign over everything to Murdoch that you already had in the BBC?
Wasn't our decision. During the 1991/92 season, the teams in the top division of English football (then the First Division), took the decision to create a 'breakaway league' (the Premiership) to increase their share of tv revenue. To get the most money, they signed a deal with BSkyB allowing Sky to be the only provider of top flight matches in England.

It was the clubs' decision, not ours.

As an additional question, if you're in the UK now, do you have to have Sky Extra to see the World Cup games? (I think I can guess the answer, but I want to see).
Actually, the BBC and ITV (terrestial commercial channel) share coverage of World Cup matches. You can probably find out on the BBC Sport website what matches the BBC are showing - ITV will be showing all the others, plus the final, which is on both. The BBC does the best coverage, though - whenever both channels show a match, the viewing figures come out as about 75:25 in the BBC's favour.

Well, if America is barely interested, I'm pretty sure that Canada's even FURTHER away from caring about the World Cup, seeing as we have no team in there. Which really annoys me, as I am Canadian, and I'm in love with the thing! :p Tough to find enough people to enjoy the games with though.

Oh well. Again, go Aussies! :D

Semi-finals:
Italy 2-3 Australia
Holland 2-1 Germany

Wouldn't that be sweet? :p

Go New Zealand!!!
We lost to Hungary 2-0, but beat Georgia 3-1 and drew with Estonia 1-1.
Playing Brazil in Geneva on Sunday and I am going to watch it!!!

(By the way I am a New Zealander who lives in Geneva)

And yes I do know that the New Zealand team is very bad compared with most countries, and that they aren't in the World Cup.

I am so excited about the World Cup, but most of my friends don't even know where it is being held! I'm behind Australia all the way, but I hope that they will pose a challenge to Holland when they play them, otherwise I might begin to lose faith on the Socceroos.

The future of soccer in the nation lies on you, Guss Hiddink!

I am so excited about the World Cup, but most of my friends don't even know where it is being held!

I am in EXACTLY the same boat, unfortunately... :p

I'm behind Australia all the way, but I hope that they will pose a challenge to Holland when they play them, otherwise I might begin to lose faith on the Socceroos.

I don't think I could lose faith in those guys. Is it blind faith? Yeah, probably.

The future of soccer in the nation lies on you, Guss Hiddink!

Heh...no pressure, eh? ;)

I don't think they'll get too far either, but I live in hope. :)
Considering we're ranked 118th in the World, I'm not really in a position to say you guys suck, heh.
I'll end up supporting you guys just because your Australia, and I love your girls :).

A couple of friends from work have got tickets to the Aus V Japan & Aus V Croatia games. They're leaving for Germany Friday week. I'm so envious, I reckon it'll be a huge buzz over there.

Wasn't our decision. During the 1991/92 season, the teams in the top division of English football (then the First Division), took the decision to create a 'breakaway league' (the Premiership) to increase their share of tv revenue. To get the most money, they signed a deal with BSkyB allowing Sky to be the only provider of top flight matches in England.

It was the clubs' decision, not ours.

Yup, and the one time someone tried to break the monopoly (ITV Digital), they went bust and drove a whole load of 2nd - 4th tier teams into administration. Like mine :( Plus before that, the BBC couldn't show many games at all, they only had two chanels and considering it was public money to buy the rights, they also had to show other programmes/sports as well. Sky do have excellent coverage if you want to pay, but I'll stick with watching Gary Lineker et al. on the highlights on Match of the Day.

Besides, Setanta have got one of the new packages to begin 2007/2008 season IIRC. Wonder how they will show those...

Anyways, I believe the World Cup is on a list of sporting events that has to be shown on free to air television (unike the Ashes :mad:) so the BBC and ITV will always get them.

Actually, the BBC and ITV (terrestial commercial channel) share coverage of World Cup matches. You can probably find out on the BBC Sport website what matches the BBC are showing - ITV will be showing all the others, plus the final, which is on both. The BBC does the best coverage, though - whenever both channels show a match, the viewing figures come out as about 75:25 in the BBC's favour.

Yup, John Motson is a legend.

Yup, John Motson is a legend.
Maybe so, but he's past it now. Let Jonathan Pearce do all the commentary! :p

Or I'll do what I normally do - watch the football and listen to the radio commentary. Alan Green is my god.

And Holland beats Mexico!!!!!

Holland - Mexico 2-1

GO HOLLAND :D :D :D

Which reminds me, when are the Socceroos coming again for another Friendly? Make sure you are prepared!!!!

All this after, btw, Holland U21 beat France U21 to reach the Final of the European Cup U21 that is held in Portugal right now

Holland U21 - France U21 3-2 (after ET)

More Spiegel team analyses:
England (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419142,00.html)
Paraguay (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419151,00.html)
T&T (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419163,00.html)
Sweden (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419177,00.html)

And not yet mentioned: South Korea only managed a 0:0 against Norway (link (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=194789&cc=3436))

And Holland beats Mexico!!!!!

Holland - Mexico 2-1

GO HOLLAND :D :D :D

Which reminds me, when are the Socceroos coming again for another Friendly? Make sure you are prepared!!!!

All this after, btw, Holland U21 beat France U21 to reach the Final of the European Cup U21 that is held in Portugal right now

Holland U21 - France U21 3-2 (after ET)

The Aus v Holland freindly is Sunday night our time (starts about 11pm I think). That would make it about Sunday lunchtime in Holland?

The Aus v Holland freindly is Sunday night our time (starts about 11pm I think). That would make it about Sunday lunchtime in Holland?

Honestly, I have no idea... :confused:

I live in Italy, so I wouldnt be able to watch anyway :rolleyes:

Honestly, I have no idea... :confused:

I live in Italy, so I wouldnt be able to watch anyway :rolleyes:

I'm going to stay up & watch it on Sunday night. I'll be buggered at work on Monday morning, but I'll have to get used to that over the next month anyway.

Italy were awful against Switzerland, and don't try to pretend England are good. We're not.

Rooney's absence has demonstrated how Erikkson has transformed a world class side into uninspiring, unthreatening mediocrity.

You mean they'd cheat...not got any Schumacher's on the team, though ;)LOL

Hmmm...Germany seem to have managed a convincing victory over Colombia - 3-o, with Ballack, Schweinsteiger and Borowski scoring. Should shut the German press up for a day or two...

Togo achieved their first win in nine matches by beating the mighty Liechtenstein 1-0.

Sweden could only manage a 1-1 draw with Chile - after Larsson gave them the lead on the half hour, Chile equalised shortly after half time. This is encouraging for England, especially combined with apparently good news about Rooney - he was involved in a kickabout at training today, both putting weight on and kicking with his injured foot.

Italy and the Ukraine seem to be heading for a 0-0 draw, with about 10 minutes left. Good result for the Ukraine, but Italy might be wondering about their strikers' form.

Togo achieved their first win in nine matches by beating the mighty Liechtenstein 1-0.

LOL

Italy and the Ukraine seem to be heading for a 0-0 draw, with about 10 minutes left. Good result for the Ukraine, but Italy might be wondering about their strikers' form.

After the embarrassing (sp?) draw against Switzerland, this is Italy's second shameful appearance.

Note to bookies: Scrap Italy of your favourites list...

Naw, I'm in California.. you have to watch the Spanish (Mexican/Mexican-American) channels to see any World Cup games here. Unless the U.S. team makes the semifinals or better, in which case the major networks might play it, but I don't think that's likely.
you smoking crack? They played the games of the last world cup on major networks... it's just that they were showed when they were live... at like, 1 to 3 in the morning cst.

http://www.fifa.com/en/mens/statistics/index/0,2548,116811,00.html?articleid=116811
Go New Zealand!!

I think we have a great chance of knocking Brazil over in thier final hit out :).

LOL
Not bad. Two LOL's in a row...:D

After the embarrassing (sp?) draw against Switzerland, this is Italy's second shameful appearance.

Note to bookies: Scrap Italy of your favourites list...
I wouldn't count them out just yet. Remember they beat Germany 4-1. And not conceding against Ukraine, with Shevchenko in the team, is pretty good. They're one of the few teams at the World Cup who could do well on the strength of their defence - England are another.

More team analyses: Argentina (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419433,00.html), Ivory Coast (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419440,00.html), Serbia (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419446,00.html) and of course Holland (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419447,00.html).

A special article about the 1974 World Cup: Land of the Long-Haired Legends (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,418582,00.html)

Klinsmann does all he can to present this 3:0 as the finalisation of all his work, and that this now is a true representation of the German form, as opposed to all those other matches. :p
But a good point is that Phillip Lahm came back into the team after injury, and the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5043024.stm) at least seems to be convinced that that is what made the difference. Spiegel (http://www.spiegel.de/sport/fussball/0,1518,419536,00.html) instead prefers to blame a poor Columbian attack.

Oh, God! Italy's going to kick our ass! :eek:

you smoking crack? They played the games of the last world cup on major networks... it's just that they were showed when they were live... at like, 1 to 3 in the morning cst.

Yup, this year ABC has eight first round games on the weekends, including one USA game (June 18th, 2:30PM eastern, v. Italy).

ESPN2 and ESPN has the rest of the games.

http://www.fifa.com/en/mens/statistics/index/0,2548,116811,00.html?articleid=116811
Go New Zealand!!

I think we have a great chance of knocking Brazil over in thier final hit out :).

Knock a few of their star players out for us. Soften them up a bit before we have to meet them! ;)

Knock a few of their star players out for us. Soften them up a bit before we have to meet them! ;)
Yeah, pretend you playing rugby, play Tana Umanga.

Ok, so Marlon King was sent home for a breach of discipline and two others were fined half their match fee, Jamaica will be looking slightly dodgy for this, esp. with a Sheffield Wednesday striker (Deon Burton) up front :p

But our (Bradford City's) goalkeeper has said that,


Donovan Ricketts has taunted Peter Crouch ahead of their England showdown on Saturday by declaring: I'm bigger than you.

Jamaica provide the opposition for the final World Cup warm-up at a packed Old Trafford and the City goalkeeper believes he can come out on top in the battle of the giants.

Both men measure up at a towering 6ft 7in but Ricketts reckons he edges it on bulk.

"He's skinny and I'm big so I'll bully him," laughed Ricketts.

Talking to the Telegraph & Argus he continued: "But he won't get to me anyway because we have two proper centre backs to stop him. Claude Davis and Damion Stewart will sort him out, so I'm sorry for Crouchy."

Crouch came off the bench to score the final goal in England's 3-1 win over Hungary on Tuesday and Jamaica coach Wendell Downswell warned: "He will definitely be a handful in terms of the quality that he possesses.

"Whenever Crouch takes the field, we will have to be very cautious of what he brings to the English side."

The Reggae Boyz were thumped 4-1 by Ghana on Monday, with Stewart scoring in his own net and Ricketts blamed for at least one of the goals.

That result has left many predicting an England massacre but the Bantams shot-stopper does not see it that way.

Ricketts, pictured, said: "We will relish playing against England. We played Ghana in a friendly spirit because they are our brothers but come tomorrow you will see a different outfit, ready and raring to go.

"No goalkeeper likes to concede goals but hopefully we will minimise our mistakes in the defensive third and we will have a better game."

Ricketts, who aims to swap shirts with Paul Robinson afterwards, is excited at the prospect of trying to stop some of the biggest names in football.

Having produced a star-studded display against a Ronaldo-inspired Brazil a few years ago, he is geared up to thwarting David Beckham and Co and he has done some homework for the real acid test against Beckham's set-piece prowess.

"The trick is not to build too much of a big wall so you have time to get across or keep a good position," revealed Ricketts.

"I'm really looking forward to playing against them all but the real challenge will come from free-kicks because Beckham can really bend a ball."

While England apply the finishing touches for next week's World Cup opener against Paraguay, Jamaica are already looking ahead to qualifying in 2010.

Ricketts, who sat on the bench as cover during their only appearance in the finals eight years ago, believes tomorrow's match is the starting point for that campaign.

"The build-up for our next World Cup begins against England," he said.

"The nucleus of our team will be the ones we want to select again so it is important that we play to our best."

http://www.bradfordcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk (http://www.bradfordcityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/News/NewsDetail/0,,10266~835443,00.html)

One of the centre backs, Damien Stewart is ok, he played for Bradford on loan before moving to QPR, but after scoring a cracking own goal against Ghana, it should be an interesting game for him against Crouch, Owen et al.

I have to say it tho, that Ricketts is one hell of a keeper, how he's keeping for the lesser lights of BRadford I don't know. He should sign for a big club....like forest. :D

Seriously, we need a keeper and the latest rumor is that he's the one, on a £200,000 deal.

Why does nobody appear to be concerned about Holland?

Martin Samuels omits van Nistelrooy from a discussion of world class no.10's, and the BBC pretend they don't exist. They play great football, have fantastic players (van der Vaart, RVN, Robben, van Bommel et al) and are actually a unified squad.

As for Italy, I watched the Switzerland game, and found them unimpressive.

Why does nobody appear to be concerned about Holland?

Martin Samuels omits van Nistelrooy from a discussion of world class no.10's, and the BBC pretend they don't exist. They play great football, have fantastic players (van der Vaart, RVN, Robben, van Bommel et al) and are actually a unified squad.

As for Italy, I watched the Switzerland game, and found them unimpressive.

Yeah, but Holland are frequently like Italy, they implode at some point when they get thinking they are the best, and then when it doesn't quite go their way, they throw a hissy fit amongst other members of the squad. Still, they are supremely talented so you can't count them out.

The BBC has had a few pieces on them such as:

Dutch Masters (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/holland/4986666.stm)

As for Italy, they have set a new record by having their scandelous moment before the world cup, rather than during.

I have to say it tho, that Ricketts is one hell of a keeper, how he's keeping for the lesser lights of BRadford I don't know. He should sign for a big club....like forest. :D

Seriously, we need a keeper and the latest rumor is that he's the one, on a £200,000 deal.

Since we signed him on a v.good deal (a free no less) for 3 years :D Norwich were in for him, but I heard we demanded about £500k+ for him (he's that good) and they buggered off... So we'll keep a good keeper. Should do our playoff chances the whole world of good next year. Pity we couldn't sign Stewart though, he was class and is a pacy defender who complemented Wethers and Bower really well. Still both will have a shocker this afternoon and no one will be interested in Ricketts so we can keep him for longer :D

Why does nobody appear to be concerned about Holland?

Martin Samuels omits van Nistelrooy from a discussion of world class no.10's, and the BBC pretend they don't exist. They play great football, have fantastic players (van der Vaart, RVN, Robben, van Bommel et al) and are actually a unified squad.

As for Italy, I watched the Switzerland game, and found them unimpressive.
Whoever qualifies from the group Holland's in has a very good chance of doing well. I wouldn't be surprised if one of them gets to the final.

Whoever qualifies from the group Holland's in has a very good chance of doing well. I wouldn't be surprised if one of them gets to the final.
Or two, damn you Argentina for '78:D

Whoever qualifies from the group Holland's in has a very good chance of doing well. I wouldn't be surprised if one of them gets to the final.

As long as Argentina don't win, anything's a bonus.:p

As long as Argentina don't win, anything's a bonus.:p

Thats a point of view I whole heartedly agree with :D

As long as Argentina don't win, anything's a bonus.:p
I think that's something that everyone can agree on. Except perhaps the Argies themselves. Personally I think it'd be a nightmare if England won. Just imagine the media...

And Beckham's status would be even higher. If that's even possible.

I think that's something that everyone can agree on. Except perhaps the Argies themselves. Personally I think it'd be a nightmare if England won. Just imagine the media...

And Beckham's status would be even higher. If that's even possible.
No, that would be so much fun, to see the media do a 180 and start praising Svennis :p I don't like him, but it would be priceless...

Well, England have got 4 and we've only just reached the half hour...

Ricketts isn't being helped by his defence who have scored two own goals so far, but he was caught out trying to close down Michael Owen.

So far...

1-0 Lampard

2-0 Jermain Taylor (OG)

3-0 Peter Crouch/Omar Daley (OG); Looks to be an own goal as Crouch's shot didn't appear to be on target.

4-0 Owen

Terry off with a light hamstring strain, Ashley Cole is injured with a slight strain (thigh) too apparently and Beckham has taken a knock but is ok.

Friday nights results

Angola 2 - 3 Turkey
Germany 3 - 0 Colombia
Italy 0 - 0 Ukraine
Liechtenstein 0 - 1 Togo
Sweden 1 - 1 Chile

Saturday's results so far

England 6 - 0 Jamaica

More results from last night:

Czech Republic v T&T (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/5044440.stm) 3:0
Switzerland v China (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=195530&cc=3436) 4:1
Poland v Croatia (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=195986&cc=3436) 1:0
Paraguay v a Bavarian Amateur Squad 3:0
Spain v Egypt (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/spain/5044472.stm) 2:0

Also, a little article about Klinsmann (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=369960&cc=3436), a full interview (http://www.spiegel.de/sport/fussball/0,1518,419554,00.html) in German, and Uwe Seeler (http://www.spiegel.de/sport/fussball/0,1518,419081,00.html) reckons Germany will play Brazil in the Finals and win 2:1 (also in German).

6 DAYS!!!!! I cant wait! its going to be the best freakin world cup ever.

What is all this anti Argentina sentiment. If you keep it up people you will be made honorary Brazilians. ;)

What is all this anti Argentina sentiment. If you keep it up people you will be made honorary Brazilians. ;)

Well after maradona played volleyball on a football pitch (he then admittedly then scored one of the best WC goals ever)... i think we're entitled to a little less than sympathetic view :D

Well after maradona played volleyball on a football pitch (he then admittedly then scored one of the best WC goals ever)... i think we're entitled to a little less than sympathetic view :D
Well, at least he admitted after 20 years that it wasn't the hand of God..

Well, at least he admitted after 20 years that it wasn't the hand of God..

Yeah, he showed such humility...

Well, at least he admitted after 20 years that it wasn't the hand of God..
Took him long enough.

I saw a chart on the 5 greatest EC goals yesterday. Strangly, England, Argentina and Belgium feature a lot.

Oh, Australia vs Netherlands is a ONE ALL DRAW.
Oh yeah, it's a friendly but not bad against the 3rd seed eh? :D

crazy cool! world cup horay

They gave Portugal trouble in the first half, keeping Portugal goal-less and even getting a header of the bar. But when Simao Sabrosa was subbed in for the 2nd half, he netted 2 goals including a penalty kick. Then Figo put in a nice goal in the 84th to finish up the game. Still Portugal and USA FTW at the World Cup....

Results

Netherlands 1-1 Australia; RV Nistelrooy 9' and Cahill 54'.

Japan 1-0 Malta; Tamada 2'

Current scores and other fixtures (as of 16:09 BST)

Ghana 1-0 South Korea; Gyan 35'

Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivore) 0-0 Slovenia

Brazil vs. New Zealand 17:00 BST kick off.

Results
Netherlands 1-1 Australia; RV Nistelrooy 9' and Cahill 54'.
Brazil vs. New Zealand 17:00 BST kick off.

We (Oz) did well, Brazil shouldn't have problems with the Kiwis!

We (Oz) did well, Brazil shouldn't have problems with the Kiwis!

By the looks of the text commentary I was getting, it appeared that OZ were holding out for a draw and that Schwarzer was man of the match. Esp. with the 5 major saves that he made.

Still, when your GK is in such good form, it bodes very well for the opening game against Brazil! :D

By the looks of the text commentary I was getting, it appeared that OZ were holding out for a draw and that Schwarzer was man of the match. Esp. with the 5 major saves that he made.

Still, when your GK is in such good form, it bodes very well for the opening game against Brazil! :D

Schwarzer is the man. Admittedly Schwarzer deflected a shot from another player to Ruud early (Ruud scored).

No Kewell either!

We play Japan, Brazil and then Croatia.

Schwarzer is the man. Admittedly Schwarzer deflected a shot from another player to Ruud early (Ruud scored).

No Kewell either!

True, should be a good match if Kewell is fit, esp. with the way he has been playing in the Prem this year, finally seeing what he can do on a consistant basis.

Ah good point about the Brazil game...

Ghana 3-1 South Korea; Gyan 35' (1-0), Eul-Yong 49' (1-1), Muntari 62' (2-1), Essien 86' (3-1)

Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivore) 2-0 Slovenia; Drogba 35',36'

By the looks of the text commentary I was getting, it appeared that OZ were holding out for a draw and that Schwarzer was man of the match. Esp. with the 5 major saves that he made.


Well, from the commentaries I have read, it seems that the Ozzies were mainly focused on injuring as many Dutch players as possible... And they did well, knocking out Cocu, van Bronckhorst and Sneyder...

I hope they will learn to behave during the next week, before the real matches start!

Well, from the commentaries I have read, it seems that the Ozzies were mainly focused on injuring as many Dutch players as possible... And they did well, knocking out Cocu, van Bronckhorst and Sneyder...

I hope they will learn to behave during the next week, before the real matches start!
From what i've seen they actually did that:( Losing Cocu and Sneyder is the worst because we now have three injured midfielders (van der Vaart being the third):(

edit: and at the very moment of posting Huntelaar shoots Holland -21 to a 1-0 lead against Ukrain:D

edit: and at the very moment of posting Huntelaar shoots Holland -21 to a 1-0 lead against Ukrain:D

In fact, by now Huntelaar has made sure that Holland U21 leads 2-0 against Ukraine in the EC U-21.... :D

That is one championship down, one to go...........

Holland -21 wins the EC after bearting Ukraine 3-0:D :D

Holland -21 wins the EC after bearting Ukraine 3-0:D :D

Good stuff!!! You'll have good quality replacements for the players the Aussies decieded to murder....

Good stuff!!! You'll have good quality replacements for the players the Aussies decieded to murder....
Yeah:(

I watched the Oz v Holland match, and here is what I saw:

1) There was no need for all those fouls and bad blood. Particularly the Aussies seemed to keep getting involved in unnecessary and clumsy challenges. One of them was actually sent off.

2) Both teams played pretty poorly. I can't say that I've seen the Dutch play before this, but I've seen the Aussies do a lot better than that. In the first half there was barely a pass that reached its destination. Bresciano didn't get involved at all, although he's such an important player for the team. Holland probably should've gotten a penalty for a hand ball by the Australian defense.

3) Schwarzer did an excellent job. His early save from which Nistelrooy converted wasn't too flash, but there were a lot of players in the way and it was kicked pretty hard. It's thanks to him and the goalpost that Oz held on.

4) But sometimes the Australians did put together something useful, such as when they suddenly had Viduka with the ball behind the Dutch defense, who was then fouled. Viduka took the penalty and hit the crossbar, the ball bounced off van der Sar's back and rolled around in the penalty area, Cahill was the first man there and put it in.

So in conclusion, the result is a little flattering for the Aussies, but no one will remember that in a month or so. They showed strength of character by holding out 30 minutes with only ten men against a team that is technically and tactically superior to them.
Holland didn't exactly convince me either. Especially after Cocu left the pitch, they seemed to lose a lot of steam. They'll probably have to turn it up a notch if they want to seriously win this World Cup.

In other news, Brazil killed NZ 4:0 (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5046886.stm), Ivory Coast accounted for Slovenia 3:0 (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/ivory_coast/5046822.stm) and Ghana put a damper on South Korea with a 3:1 (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/5046684.stm).

Like I said before...

DEUTSCHLAND!!!!!!!1111

And although I think Brazil is a pretty nice team and a hawt country, I'd like to see a different team win the cup this time.

:D

Like I said before...

DEUTSCHLAND!!!!!!!1111

And although I think Brazil is a pretty nice team and a hawt country, I'd like to see a different team win the cup this time.

:D
Different? There has only been one final without one of the two.

Different? There has only been one final without one of the two.

Lawl. I meant as a repeat, I don't want to see a team win twice in a row. Not saying it can't happen. If not Germany or Brazil, then... theres alwas Portugal, ya? :)

After watching some of the warm up games I have to revise my opinion. Holland simply are not clicking at the moment. This leaves me predicting, of all things, an England - Italy final (with Brazil being eliminated in the quarter finals by Ukraine).

After watching some of the warm up games I have to revise my opinion. Holland simply are not clicking at the moment. This leaves me predicting, of all things, an England - Italy final (with Brazil being eliminated in the quarter finals by Ukraine).

Was listening to a Brazilian commentator talking to BBC 5Live the other day, who said that Ronaldo's finishing (or distinct lack of) could be bettered by his blind folded mother. It was an entertaining interview to say the least...

Oh, my! :eek:

T&T beat Pauli 2:1! (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=370142&cc=3436)

And in good news for Oz, it seems like the Japanese team is having troubles (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=370087&cc=3436).

Ballack (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5049952.stm) sat out training with a calf strain, as did Beckham (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5049354.stm) with ankle problems.

I would love a England v Argentina final....

Go Ukraine! :)

Was listening to a Brazilian commentator talking to BBC 5Live the other day, who said that Ronaldo's finishing (or distinct lack of) could be bettered by his blind folded mother. It was an entertaining interview to say the least...

It is suprising that a Brazilian commentator would risk any comment that may be construed as a criticism of the Brazilian team. (If he is employed by a Brazilian company it may cost him his job!) However, Ronaldo is not playing well, as he rightly says, Robinho too often tries to do something flashy and loses the ball, and Ronaldinho is useless when he doesn't have the ball and the sympathy of the referee. This leaves Kaká as being the only serious threat from the Brazilain fab four. (Apart from Ronaldinho at dead ball situations.) Add to this two geriatric full backs, one of which seems to have no notion of defending at all (No Mourinho do NOT buy Roberto Carlos, please), and only one centre half of any note, Brazil seem to be depending upon Dida, Lucio, Kaká, Gilberto Silva, and Adriano. A nice group of players, but not one that can win anything without some serious help.

I watched the Oz v Holland match, and here is what I saw:

1) There was no need for all those fouls and bad blood. Particularly the Aussies seemed to keep getting involved in unnecessary and clumsy challenges. One of them was actually sent off.

2) Both teams played pretty poorly. I can't say that I've seen the Dutch play before this, but I've seen the Aussies do a lot better than that. In the first half there was barely a pass that reached its destination. Bresciano didn't get involved at all, although he's such an important player for the team. Holland probably should've gotten a penalty for a hand ball by the Australian defense.

3) Schwarzer did an excellent job. His early save from which Nistelrooy converted wasn't too flash, but there were a lot of players in the way and it was kicked pretty hard. It's thanks to him and the goalpost that Oz held on.

4) But sometimes the Australians did put together something useful, such as when they suddenly had Viduka with the ball behind the Dutch defense, who was then fouled. Viduka took the penalty and hit the crossbar, the ball bounced off van der Sar's back and rolled around in the penalty area, Cahill was the first man there and put it in.

So in conclusion, the result is a little flattering for the Aussies, but no one will remember that in a month or so. They showed strength of character by holding out 30 minutes with only ten men against a team that is technically and tactically superior to them.
Holland didn't exactly convince me either. Especially after Cocu left the pitch, they seemed to lose a lot of steam. They'll probably have to turn it up a notch if they want to seriously win this World Cup.

I reckon that's a pretty good summary of the match. I was disappointed to see so many crude tackles by our players. Being strong on the ball is one thing, but it was a bit too much. I think the Dutch team really missed Schneider (sp?) after he went off, they seemed to lose a great deal of their drive. We were lucky it was 1-1, we could easily have been 4 or 5 down, but credit is due for hanging in there. It was a much better effort in the second half & we actually strung together some good moves, particularly after Aloisi came on.

I reckon that's a pretty good summary of the match. I was disappointed to see so many crude tackles by our players. Being strong on the ball is one thing, but it was a bit too much. I think the Dutch team really missed Schneider (sp?) after he went off, they seemed to lose a great deal of their drive. We were lucky it was 1-1, we could easily have been 4 or 5 down, but credit is due for hanging in there. It was a much better effort in the second half & we actually strung together some good moves, particularly after Aloisi came on.
Yeah, latest news is that San Marco (van Basten) has called Nigel de Jong and Stijn Schaars (both midfielders) to wherever they train. Although they are pretty good, I'd rather have Cocu and Sneijder in the team:(

Yeah, latest news is that San Marco (van Basten) has called Nigel de Jong and Stijn Schaars (both midfielders) to wherever they train. Although they are pretty good, I'd rather have Cocu and Sneijder in the team:(

Yeah, I'd hate to see them miss the World Cup. Apart from weakening the Dutch team, it's a pretty shitty thing to happen.

Yeah, I'd hate to see them miss the World Cup. Apart from weakening the Dutch team, it's a pretty shitty thing to happen.


Indeed, have a look at Luke Wilkshires tackle on van Bronckhurst. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As2Rw6HnT9E&search=australia%20holland) Subtle that.

Indeed, have a look at Luke Wilkshires tackle on van Bronckhurst. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As2Rw6HnT9E&search=australia%20holland) Subtle that.

Damn, he nearly managed to take down the ref as well! :eek:

Indeed, have a look at Luke Wilkshires tackle on van Bronckhurst. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As2Rw6HnT9E&search=australia%20holland) Subtle that.

Subtle? :D
More stupid ... and he's stuffed up in front of Guus now.

It is suprising that a Brazilian commentator would risk any comment that may be construed as a criticism of the Brazilian team. (If he is employed by a Brazilian company it may cost him his job!) However, Ronaldo is not playing well, as he rightly says, Robinho too often tries to do something flashy and loses the ball, and Ronaldinho is useless when he doesn't have the ball and the sympathy of the referee. This leaves Kaká as being the only serious threat from the Brazilain fab four. (Apart from Ronaldinho at dead ball situations.) Add to this two geriatric full backs, one of which seems to have no notion of defending at all (No Mourinho do NOT buy Roberto Carlos, please), and only one centre half of any note, Brazil seem to be depending upon Dida, Lucio, Kaká, Gilberto Silva, and Adriano. A nice group of players, but not one that can win anything without some serious help.

Not sure what his job was, it wasn't mentioned, but he didn't mention much about the rest of the team, just Ronaldo, which might be something to do with his boots ---> http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5052234.stm

Damn, he nearly managed to take down the ref as well! :eek:

Not as bad as this one by Roy Keane. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIAqD4dzkLM&search=bad%20tackle) Ouchies.

Not sure what his job was, it wasn't mentioned, but he didn't mention much about the rest of the team, just Ronaldo, which might be something to do with his boots ---> http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5052234.stm

Hehe, some folks have been calling Ronaldo "FAT", but honestly he's a little chubbier but 100 times fitter than real fatsos.

Subtle? :D
More stupid ... and he's stuffed up in front of Guus now.

Very stupid. Tackle he learned from the lower leagues that...

Hehe, some folks have been calling Ronaldo "FAT", but honestly he's a little chubbier but 100 times fitter than real fatsos.

Yeah, the commentator I mentioned said he had a spare tyre around him :D

But you're right, he's still immesurably fitter than real fat people...

Not as bad as this one by Roy Keane. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIAqD4dzkLM&search=bad%20tackle) Ouchies.

Ouch. Very, very ouch.:(

Not sure what his job was, it wasn't mentioned, but he didn't mention much about the rest of the team, just Ronaldo, which might be something to do with his boots ---> http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/brazil/5052234.stm

Globo, the Brazilian equivalent of Fox, interviewed him during the game against NZ (yes during, not after) when he had been substituted. He said that he had some five blisters on his foot, but only one that was causing him a problem. I would have thought though, that with the money and support these players get from boot manufacturers, that they could at least get boots that fit properly.

The conclusion is that he may be a little fat in the head.

Ouch. Very, very ouch.:(

Yeah, the first 'tackle' was what the second one was revenge for.

Globo, the Brazilian equivalent of Fox, interviewed him during the game against NZ (yes during, not after) when he had been substituted. He said that he had some five blisters on his foot, but only one that was causing him a problem. I would have thought though, that with the money and support these players get from boot manufacturers, that they could at least get boots that fit properly.

The conclusion is that he may be a little fat in the head.

LOL or his feet have spread to carry the extra weight ;)

A last chance to join the NS fantasy football world cup before the WC starts.

See this thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=483246)

Yeah, the first 'tackle' was what the second one was revenge for.

Wasn't that first tackle an attempt by Keane to foul said player? What was his overall ban, including the one after admitting it was delibrate? Six games? I was suprised the police didn't get involved

Didn't Veria get more for spitting and Wegner get a 12 match ban for swearing(later overturned)? Shouldn't it have been at least 24 then? Or Keane banned for life?

A last chance to join the NS fantasy football world cup before the WC starts.

See this thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=483246)

Could you TG me the League info, i've just signed up...

Wasn't that first tackle an attempt by Keane to foul said player? What was his overall ban, including the one after admitting it was delibrate? Six games? I was suprised the police didn't get involved

Didn't Veria get more for spitting and Wegner get a 12 match ban for swearing(later overturned)? Shouldn't it have been at least 24 then? Or Keane banned for life?

Yeah, it was a travesty of justice.

Basically the first one, Keane tried to tackle Haarland, who then proceeded to say he deserved it for trying a late tackle.

Keane didn't like this and then deliberately took him out in that game.

If it was Keane's tackle that ended Haarlands career (which it wasn't, it was Haarlands left knee that broke down, not his right), then Keane could have been banned, but the ban given by the FA wasn't harsh enough.

Could you TG me the League info, i've just signed up...

Done

Done

Cheers, I'm in :D

Not WC related but since we're talking about tackles: In Holland some guy (Rachid Bouaouzan, can't call him a footballplayer, actually) tackeled Niels KokMeijer from Ado Den Haag, who was taken of the field per brancard and to the hospital. He spend several months in bed and doctors had to operate him twice on his leg to get it to heal. He can never play football and it's still not sure whether he can walk normally someday.

And the guy who did the tackle? Banned for 13 games (where the maximum penalty is banning for 8 games)...
Fortunetly, Kokmeijer did sue him (for severe and deliberate abuse or something).

Not WC related but since we're talking about tackles: In Holland some guy (Rachid Bouaouzan, can't call him a footballplayer, actually) tackeled Niels KokMeijer from Ado Den Haag, who was taken of the field per brancard and to the hospital. He spend several months in bed and doctors had to operate him twice on his leg to get it to heal. He can never play football and it's still not sure whether he can walk normally someday.

And the guy who did the tackle? Banned for 13 games (where the maximum penalty is banning for 8 games)...
Fortunetly, Kokmeijer did sue him (for severe and deliberate abuse or something).

Same happened at Bradford:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/204017.stm

Not as bad as rugby though, there some seriously messed up stuff therwe with the 'citing' system and some of the bans...

For example, Martain Johnson was sent off rightly and thats a 2 week ban. The RFU's own laws say that if the match offical has delt with the incident then there is no more action....but because this was Martain Johnson they ahd to do somthing so cut through there own rules and banned him for 12 weeks for a single punch.

Three more days - I can't wait for the show to begin!!!

By the way:
http://www.world-of-smilies.com/html/images/smilies/starwars/sidholo0.gif
Everything is proceding as I have foreseen.

Same happened at Bradford:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/204017.stm
But he can still walk?

Ballack missed training again, he might not be fit to play in the opener on Friday.
But as I said before, Germany now have a pretty good replacement for him in Tim Borowski. In the preperation matches he's done very well, and even though he may not score as often, at least tactically it shouldn't hurt the team too much of Ballack sits one out.

Togo won 4:0 against Wangen, some local amateur side.

And England fans return to their usual routine. Every four years, they kid themselves into thinking they can achieve something...:p
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419933,00.html

And in more good news, the far-right NPD has cancelled pretty much all its World Cup Program, no demonstrations except a little one in Gelsenkirchen. Public pressure and the tens of thousands of policemen and -women who've been mobilised might have done their job already. ;)

But he can still walk?

Yup, but so can Haarland, just neither can walk very well and both are having problems later in life.

And England fans return to their usual routine. Every four years, they kid themselves into thinking they can achieve something...:p
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419933,00.html

Yup, every time we get a squad with talent and promise, we get knocked out and some uninspiring German team gets the glory...:p

Not long now!
woohoo! another excuse to go to the pub! hopefully i can find a seat pointing away from the telly and some people who will be more interested in chatting than gawping at the telly and shouting.

woohoo! another excuse to go to the pub! hopefully i can find a seat pointing away from the telly and some people who will be more interested in chatting than gawping at the telly and shouting.

Thats not going to happen...well maybe in Scotland where unless a team is playing against England the TV will be off...

*snip*

And England fans return to their usual routine. Every four years, they kid themselves into thinking they can achieve something...:p
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,419933,00.html



Good article, I particularly liked this bit! :)

For British comedian Rory McGrath, fears that they may cause problems are overblown. "People are worried about a lot of English fans getting drunk and causing trouble but it's really only that tiny 85 percent of them."

Go NZ :).. We did reasonably well against Brazil.

1-0 at half time. A brave effort.

Good article, I particularly liked this bit! :)

For British comedian Rory McGrath, fears that they may cause problems are overblown. "People are worried about a lot of English fans getting drunk and causing trouble but it's really only that tiny 85 percent of them."

Sounds like France '98 where the office that dealt with reports on hooliganism had one desk for each country, which were manned every now and again when needed. Germany and England had 3 desks each and were manned 24/7 for the duration of the tournament...

http://www.world-of-smilies.com/html/images/smilies/sport/wm2006england1.gif

Yup, but so can Haarland, just neither can walk very well and both are having problems later in life.
It's a shame:(

It's a shame:(

Yup, Roy Keane is suffering too as well. Just goes to show you can't always gain revenge and come out of it fine yourself...shame though, all three mentioned were good players.

Rooney gets World Cup green light (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5057514.stm)

SCORE! :D

Whoooo!

Rooney gets World Cup green light (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5057514.stm)

SCORE! :D

Get in. Rooney will either be the best player in the cup, or a complete wash out. But if memory serves, the last time he came back from a broken foot he scored a hat-trick in his debut for a new club, in a european game.

yup yup im ready. bring it on. Im excited if you guys can't tell. :upyours: ;) :)

yup yup im ready. bring it on. Im excited if you guys can't tell. :upyours: ;) :)

Sorry to tell you, but I am backing Iran to beat Mexico. Nothing against Mexico specifically, just it is good odds, and Iran are better than people think. Either way it will be a tough opener for you.

As much as i would love England to win a World Cup after 40 fucking years...im worried that people here are already writing off teams before we have even played them, saying, for example, Trinidad and Tobago will be an easy win as well as Paraguay, but anyone who watches Football will know that its not as simple as that, the underdog can, and more often than not will, bite the favourtie team on the ass.

eh, Australians, you 'defeated' Liechtenstein (3 to 1) today but I see no mention of it here:p Of course, letting Liechtenstein score at all means they have the moral victory;)

Thats not going to happen...well maybe in Scotland where unless a team is playing against England the TV will be off...
that's what i'm hoping for. it's not that i don't support england so much (i'm half english), i just don't support football. or team sports in general. particularly at the international level.

eh, Australians, you 'defeated' Liechtenstein (3 to 1) today but I see no mention of it here:p Of course, letting Liechtenstein score at all means they have the moral victory;)

They conceded to Lichtenstein!?!?!? BWAHAHAHAHA

They conceded to Lichtenstein!?!?!? BWAHAHAHAHA
No, they (Australia) won, but letting Liechtenstein score?!:eek: and making only three goals (20, 73 and 80, Liechtenstein at the 8th minute)

No, they (Australia) won, but letting Liechtenstein score?!:eek: and making only three goals (20, 73 and 80, Liechtenstein at the 8th minute)

Thats what 'conceded' meant, i.e. let Lichtenstein score :D

Thats what 'conceded' meant, i.e. let Lichtenstein score :D
ow, well, it's late and I'm dutch, and...:p

ow, well, it's late and I'm dutch, and...:p

I know, just thought i'd clear the meaning up.

I know, just thought i'd clear the meaning up.
yeah, thank you:)

yeah, thank you:)

No worries, i have the same thing happen to me when I speak German...in fact, every time i write or open my mouth :D

Regarding the Liechtenstein match:

Well, well, well...

That was pretty atrocious.

First, the goal they 'conceded' was an own goal by a defender who thought he might stop a free kick with his head, but didn't jump high enough and succeeded in scoring.

After that, they pretty much forgot everything Guus may have taught them. They reverted to their old style: Let's kick the ball far and high forward, and hope that someone will get it.

Kewell didn't seem all that confident, and so he didn't impress. Aloisi was better.

The 3:1 scoreline is flattering to the Aussies, who just couldn't manage the Liechtensteiners' style of defending (10 defenders and a goalie). Instead of going more around the flanks, they kept trying to go through the middle. Ironically, every time they managed to string something together on the flanks, they scored.

And they still play a pretty physical game. Pushing, pulling, kicking and all the rest of it. Tim Cahill got a yellow for ellbowing.

Hiddink is fuming. (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=370339&cc=3436)

And in other news, Australia's competition Croatia lost to Spain 2:1 (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=197697&cc=3436), and France beat China 3:1 (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=194796&cc=3436). Cisse (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/france/5057580.stm) broke (!) his leg.

Ballack doesn't think Germany is quite up for it (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,420027,00.html) (he's been a bit of a worry recently with his comments against Klinsmann, hasn't he)
Jens Lehmann (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5056116.stm) says the same thing about the English. Hehe.

And a nice little thing about Germany's win in the 1954 World Cup: Germany is born (http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/0,1518,420110,00.html).

Not only does Ballack not think Germany are up for it, but he ain't helping by being out of the first game (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5049952.stm)...


In other news, we've got a fit squad who are all training (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5058442.stm) :D

Mexican Keeper Goes Home After Death Of Father (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/mexico/5058878.stm)

I feel so sorry for him, talk about absolutely gutting :(

On a personal level, i've had to change all my fantasy football teams now caus I had him in :(

Not only does Ballack not think Germany are up for it, but he ain't helping by being out of the first game (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/germany/5049952.stm)...


In other news, we've got a fit squad who are all training (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2006/teams/england/5058442.stm) :D
Will Rooney play the group stage, though? I find it unlikely, except, maybe, if we need a result against Sweden. Don't see that happening though - as long as we beat Paraguay and T&T, we only need a draw against them.

Will Rooney play the group stage, though? I find it unlikely, except, maybe, if we need a result against Sweden. Don't see that happening though - as long as we beat Paraguay and T&T, we only need a draw against them.

Doubt it, he might come on against T&T if we're looking comfortable though...

How great a second round match would that be? Obviously England would win, but how great would it be to watch the Germans lose about 4 - 0.

How great a second round match would that be? Obviously England would win, but how great would it be to watch the Germans lose about 4 - 0.

About as great as it was to see em lose 5-1 after being in Germany for Euro '96 :D

About as great as it was to see em lose 5-1 after being in Germany for Euro '96 :D

He he he. Served them right.

How great a second round match would that be? Obviously England would win, but how great would it be to watch the Germans lose about 4 - 0.
Ha!

Yeah, right! I'm sure three time winners and four time runner's up, Germany, are really scared!

Ha!

Yeah, right! I'm sure three time winners and four time runner's up, Germany, are really scared!

Yeah, but they don't appear to have Beckenbauer, Mattheus, Mueller, Breitner who won them those world cups...

Still, never discount the Germans until the final whistle has gone.

It all starts tomorrow, hurry up & bring it on! :)