NationStates Jolt Archive

Just over 5 hours to go til Italy vs USA go at it...

Start the slamming now...

The US had better have their heads out of their arses for this game and play like they mean it, or Uncle Sam's Army is going home....

I, for one, am looking forward to yet another humiliation of the US team. :)

Too bad Football isn't like World War Two.:p

Since this will prolly spark a lot of discussion, I'm posting this WAY ahead of time. Who do you think will win.

My pediction:

ITALY!
http://arthur.iea-coal.co.uk/files/IEACLE0001/Flags/Italy-flag.jpg

I'm thinking 2-0 to Italy. I don't think it will be any more than that, because the Italians tend to conserve their lead & not push too hard for more goals.

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=488103

Too bad Football isn't like World War Two.:p
What, so the US can come in halfway through the last game, nuke the referee and forever claim that without them the winners would have lost?

did'nt notice.

What, so the US can come in halfway through the last game, nuke the referee and forever claim that without them the winners would have lost?

That, and claiming nuking the referee was good for him.

ITALY!
http://arthur.iea-coal.co.uk/files/IEACLE0001/Flags/Italy-flag.jpg

I, for one, am looking forward to yet another humiliation of the US team. :)

Yo.

Since this will prolly spark a lot of discussion, I'm posting this WAY ahead of time. Who do you think will win.


You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.

My predictions:
IF the US has it's act together this time, 1-0 either way or a 1-1 draw.
Otherwise, 2-0 to Italy sounds right to me. :(

You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.

Where's Corneliu? He's been a very strong defender of the US team.

You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.

Actually....there maybe more than you might think.

USA by 1.

Where's Corneliu? He's been a very strong defender of the US team.

He does tend to defend the indefensible.

Where's Corneliu? He's been a very strong defender of the US team.

:p

Posted 1 minute after this statement.

USA! USA! USA!

Actually....there maybe more than you might think.

USA by 1.

I spoke too soon.

:p
USA! USA! USA!
ferociusly unlikely..

Just over 5 hours to go til Italy vs USA go at it...

Start the slamming now...

The US had better have their heads out of their arses for this game and play like they mean it, or Uncle Sam's Army is going home....

USA USA USA USA

What, so the US can come in halfway through the last game, nuke the referee and forever claim that without them the winners would have lost?

No, so the US can, in Game 1, come in at halftime to bail out a team on the verge of collapse using superior equipment and conditioning. Then in Game 2, realize halfway through that both your team and the others are gonna get blown to bits one by one unless you nuke 'em. So, nuke 'em.

P.S. I don't get the referee analogy. Japan wasn't the referee in WW II.

COPYCAT! (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=488103)

(:P)

did'nt notice.

;) 's OK.

You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.

While the US is caring more (Monday's game had the highest ever viewership of any association football game in the US), much of the comment is likely to be the (borderline flaming?) anti-USAmericanism seen in general here on any topic that comes up on the US.

Where's Corneliu? He's been a very strong defender of the US team.

Fass was MIA for a few days while C. was more active. Now Fass's back and C.'s MIA. Oogy-boogy puppets anyone?

USA USA USA USA
sorry, no.

I, for one, am looking forward to yet another humiliation of the US team. :)
Similar but not quite such strong feelings. America don't have a hope, but I don't imagine Italy will bother too much about thrashing them. It'll be comfortable for Italy - 2-0 or 3-0.

nFass was MIA for a few days while C. was more active. Now Fass's back and C.'s MIA. Oogy-boogy puppets anyone?

You have pre-summer finals once a year, and see such awful accusations arise...

You have pre-summer finals once a year, and see such awful accusations arise...

Yes it was an awful accusation. I say we take him on. What do you think?

*snip*

Fass was MIA for a few days while C. was more active. Now Fass's back and C.'s MIA. Oogy-boogy puppets anyone?

Now that's a conspiracy theory worth pursuing! :p

While the US is caring more (Monday's game had the highest ever viewership of any association football game in the US), much of the comment is likely to be the (borderline flaming?) anti-USAmericanism seen in general here on any topic that comes up on the US.



Fass was MIA for a few days while C. was more active. Now Fass's back and C.'s MIA. Oogy-boogy puppets anyone?
What, did two people tune in this time?

I'd rather watch women take their jerseys off again.

Yo.

'Sup beyotch?

Well, it's off to a late dinner, nap, 4 am wake up for the game, another
nap, and ice hockey... wish me luck for staying awake!

Yes it was an awful accusation. I say we take him on. What do you think?

Dibs for the backside!

You have pre-summer finals once a year, and see such awful accusations arise...
Yes it was an awful accusation. I say we take him on. What do you think?

Truly an unholy alliance. :eek:

Dibs for the backside!

I'll take his head then.

You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.
Yeah, but there'll be all the US-bashers coming out to declare their allegiance with Italy. I don't remember Fass taking part in many other World Cup related threads.

my prediction: at least one more thread about USA v. Italy

I'll take his head then.

Give him one, too.

What, did two people tune in this time?

I'd rather watch women take their jerseys off again.
Indeed

Give him one, too.

Umm no. :D

Well, it's off to a late dinner, nap, 4 am wake up for the game, another
nap, and ice hockey... wish me luck for staying awake!

I'm having the same problem myself. Stupid World Cup on the other side of the world. GMT + 11 hours is the correct time zone, not the other way around!

Give him one, too.

Job?

Umm no. :D

You took his, anything else but reciprocation is selfish and way too toppish for your personality.

What, did two people tune in this time?

I'd rather watch women take their jerseys off again.

That goes without saying, but we're really talking about the World Cup here. Try the "What is so indecent about BOOBS? (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=487845)" thread.

I'm having the same problem myself. Stupid World Cup on the other side of the world. GMT + 11 hours is the correct time zone, not the other way around!

CET is where it's at, boy.

I'm having the same problem myself. Stupid World Cup on the other side of the world. GMT + 11 hours is the correct time zone, not the other way around!
Nuh ah, right now +13 PWNS ALL!!!

CET is where it's at, boy.

Sadly, it is at the moment, but we'll have our revenge. Oh yes we will, mwahahahaha.....

2-0 USA with goals by McBride off a header and Donavon with a rocket just outside the box. And yes, I know Im going out on a limb.

Sadly, it is at the moment, but we'll have our revenge. Oh yes we will, mwahahahaha.....

*knows how to programme recordable DVD, but probably won't bother as football sucks*

Is this elimination for the US? I just meandered over since I wanted to know how my countries doing, not that I am going for them. Sorry, the Czechs, Spanish, and Germans all have my vote.

Dibs for the backside!
I thought you were a reciever!:eek:

*knows how to programme recordable DVD, but probably won't bother as football sucks*

Yeah, I could do that, but by the time I get home from work & watch the game, I would know the score, heard multiple analyses of the game, etc. Plus my girlfriend would get pissed off with me hogging the TV. At least now she's in bed asleep & couldn't care less.

I thought you were a reciever!:eek:

I catch and pitch with equal passion.

I catch and pitch with equal passion.
Baseball/Softball euphamisim!:eek:

Baseball/Softball euphamisim!:eek:

I'm hip to the lingo.

Baseball/Softball euphamisim!:eek:

Well, to put it in a World Cup context, he's a striker & a goalkeeper.

Well, to put it in a World Cup context, he's a striker & a goalkeeper.
Thats Brilliant!:D

Getting ready to watch the Ghana game now. I am hoping that they will win and that the USA MNT will somehow get a win in today. It would be nice to see the US team advance to the next round. The US has the potential to win the game but if the coaching decisions are as bad as the last game and the players do not get fired up then it will be a massacre. The worst that I have heard so far is that someone quoted Reyna as saying they will be playing a defensive game. If that is the case then 3-0 Italy. The US needs to come out strong with a take no prisoners approach on this one. It is all or nothing and it is time they played it that way.

*knows how to programme recordable DVD, but probably won't bother as football sucks*
football dpos not suck.

football dpos not suck.

Yes, it unequivocally does.

2-0 USA with goals by McBride off a header and Donavon with a rocket just outside the box. And yes, I know Im going out on a limb.
Demarcus Beasley to score 5!:p

I'm rooting for Italy in this game. And here on the East Coast of the US the game's at three this afternoon. :)

football dpos not suck.
Suck is gay talk for cool.

I'm conflicted.

The US should at least manage 1 goal, methinks. But at the same time Italy should win by at least a margin of two. Yet I don't really see them scoring 3 goals.

Ahhh, what to do?

Screw it, I say 3:1.

Or 2:0.

Or 2:1.

Something like that.

Suck is gay talk for cool.

No, you're thinking of rim.

No, you're thinking of rim.
Suck is gay talk for rim?o_O

The USA will play twice as well as they did against the Czech Republic, but it won't be enough -- Italy are simply better in all phases of the game.

2-1 Italy

Suck is gay talk for rim?o_O

Only if you do it properly.

You would think that out of nearly 200 million, we'd be able to find a dozen or two that could play the game...

Only if you do it properly.
Ok, well i accuse you of having poor taste in woman!

Ok, well i accuse you of having poor taste in woman!

I can only hope.

You would think that out of nearly 200 million, we'd be able to find a dozen or two that could play the game...

if you're talking about the US population, it's just about 300 million

Italy 3x1.

if you're talking about the US population, it's just about 300 million

Limited to men between 16 and 40 probably closer to 60 million. If you add in under 250 lbs it goes down to about 5 million. :p

I have to say, my opinion of the US team has changed somewhat. They are very reminiscent of countless other international teams that are:

-well organised
- rigidly structured
- populated by players who put a great amount of effort in

However, they lack any noticably spontaneous or consumate players, and they lack the overall quality to compete with the "footballing powers".

In short, I would suggest that the USA are perhaps two or three true quality players away from being considered amongst the second and third tier of international teams.

Limited to men between 16 and 40 probably closer to 60 million. If you add in under 250 lbs it goes down to about 5 million. :p

Ouch! :p

I can only hope.
Quite.

Limited to men between 16 and 40 probably closer to 60 million. If you add in under 250 lbs it goes down to about 5 million. :p

hehe

most of our top athletes grow up playing football, basketball, baseball, etc.

soccer is the sport generally played (in gym class and at recess, anyway) by those who aren't good at the above three sports.

US soccer is still growing... as more and more of the better athletes choose soccer instead of football/basketball/baseball, the state of the US game will continue improving.

(although if we lose to Italy by 4 or 5 goals, our 1 step forward in Korea/Japan will have been followed by two steps back in Germany)

although if we lose to Italy by 4 or 5 goals, our 1 step forward in Korea/Japan will have been followed by two steps back in Germany
That's not going to happen, though USA are very unlikely to qualify for the next round. I just hope that Americans don't lose interest in the sport because they don't do so well at it. Had they been drawn in another group - say in group A, maybe group B, or group G - they could have had a decent chance of getting to the last 16.

If the US team actually comes to play, 1-0 US

Yet if they show up like they did against the Czechs, 2-0 Italy

*dropkicks US*
get your act in gear

the US could show up to play and lose 3-1... that's how good Italy is.

If the US team actually comes to play, 1-0 US

Yet if they show up like they did against the Czechs, 2-0 Italy

*dropkicks US*
get your act in gear

Even if the US do come to play, I still think it will be Italy 2-0. Even at the top of their game, I just don't think the USA are strong enough to knock over the Italians.

If the US team actually comes to play, 1-0 US
Yes, assuming that Italy don't turn up...

Americas only chance is if the Italians get sent off for diving.

If the US team actually comes to play, 1-0 US

Yet if they show up like they did against the Czechs, 2-0 Italy

*dropkicks US*
get your act in gear

If the US team shows up and plays to its fullest extent, Totti could still beat them single handedly.

That's not going to happen, though USA are very unlikely to qualify for the next round. I just hope that Americans don't lose interest in the sport because they don't do so well at it. Had they been drawn in another group - say in group A, maybe group B, or group G - they could have had a decent chance of getting to the last 16.

or D -- we won our Q group over Mexico... have their number everywhere but Estadio Azteca.

or D -- we won our Q group over Mexico... have their number everywhere but Estadio Azteca.
Yeah, I wasn't sure about that one because I'm not sure which country USA would replace. If they replaced Iran, I think they'd lose to Portugal and struggle against Angola, whereas if they replaced Angola they'd have a decent chance.

Yeah, I wasn't sure about that one because I'm not sure which country USA would replace. If they replaced Iran, I think they'd lose to Portugal and struggle against Angola, whereas if they replaced Angola they'd have a decent chance.

the thing about the US over the past several years is that they win the games they should win -- on account of that, i think they could beat Iran or Angola.

(the friendly loss to Morocco right here in Nashville notwithstanding, lol)

soccer is the sport generally played (in gym class and at recess, anyway) by those who aren't good at the above three sports.

That's the best thing about football, almost anyone can play it almost irrespective of skill or equipment. Even if you've got no real skill or coordination and only jumpers for goal posts you can still have a kickaround and not feel left out.

the thing about the US over the past several years is that they win the games they should win -- on account of that, i think they could beat Iran or Angola.

(the friendly loss to Morocco right here in Nashville notwithstanding, lol)
You mean losing to Costa Rica, and drawing with Guatemala, Scotland and Costa Rica? :p Not to mention 3 draws with Jamaica and one with Panama...and a draw with Haiti. And to round it off, a draw with Canada and a defeat to Morocco. ;)

Italy is the better and, the USA just got crushed by Czech but is anyone watching the Ghana game? Ghanas up one nothing at halftime. If Ghana wins it gets blown wide open. Italy, Czech, and Ghana could all have three points. If USA beats Italy...lol... then they could actually make it to the next round.
Thanks All,
The Turk :sniper:

If the Ghanas can beat the Czechs, not a good sign for USA. They play Ghana last. Still USA needs to beat Italy anyway.

Americans should be proud of how their soccer team has been coming along over the years and Bruce Arena is a great coach.

Nevertheless Italy should win this easily. 2-0. No sweat.

To be honest I think Italy is taking the cup this year. South American teams usually slip up when the World Cup is held in Europe. Italy is the strongest of all European teams right now. Portugal is a serious dark-horse with Scolari in charge and Brazil can still overcome the continental handicap.

To be honest I think Italy is taking the cup this year. South American teams usually slip up when the World Cup is held in Europe. Italy is the strongest of all European teams right now. Portugal is a serious dark-horse with Scolari in charge and Brazil can still overcome the continental handicap.
I'm not sure how relevant the Europe disadvantage thing is going to be in the future since a sizeable proportion from the S. American teams play in Europe nowadays.

3-0 to Italy

Goal Italia!

Italia!!!

Goal! Gilardino for Italy, diving header from the edge of the six yard box, from a free kick from the right. 1-0 Italy.

While I like Claudio Reyna (who has played for the 1. VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga) I don't see the US win this game.

Although they've just scored the 1:1

ITALY scores again!!! Against their own goal !!:eek:

And now they've killed McBride! :mad:

EDIT: It seems he didn't die. He just got an ugly elbow to the face. ;)

Own goal! Zaccardo slices into his own net when attempting a clearance from a free kick. 1-1!

Red card! Elbow apparently. De Rossi is off, Italy are down to 10 men.

Just seen the replay, and that was disgraceful! He can have absolutely no complaints about being sent off.

Whoa, this game is weird.

Wow, I guess that did deserve a red card after all. Damn.

Mmh. That clearly was a justified http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/redcard.gif.

How can the Italians be so stupid?!? Beats me...

Now, to meet my prediction of 3:1 they need to score another 2 goals while playing with 10 against 11. This should prove to be interesting!

to coin a phrase, game on.

should be a cracker now!

The U.S. has dictated the flow so far... the problem for the US has always been... ummm... scoring goals though. We'll see what happens.

in one minute, the Italians have gone from being 1-0, to being tied and a man down

Should be a cracker now!
Uhm... to coin my favorite highschool phrase: What does that mean?!?

at 35 minutes, it's 1-1 and Totti is being substituted. At least England is doing well in the world cup! :D

Offsides! I'm checking the TiVo for the validity of that call...

If the Ghanas can beat the Czechs, not a good sign for USA. They play Ghana last. Still USA needs to beat Italy anyway.

With Ghana winning it makes things much better for the USA. We're tied with Italy now. Nice to see our team actually playing hard this time.

at 35 minutes, it's 1-1 and Totti is being substituted. At least England is doing well in the world cup! :D
[off topic - like your name; sure makes for an interesting nation!]

It's a tactical substitution to improve the midfield. (They are? Their games didn't really convince me just yet.)

Uhm... to coin my favorite highschool phrase: What does that mean?!?
It'll be a good game.

I still think Italy will win. They have quality throughout their side, even if they are a man down and Totti has been substituted. Come on, when you can bring on a player of Gattuso's quality from the bench, you can't really complain.

10 men all, whooo.

Well, at least they're even now.

That's a ridiculous red card. Ridiculous. I'm pissed off.

C'mon! That was not a red card! Yellow, sure, but red?

Red card for America! Mastroeni for a 'reckless' tackle. He was late, studs first on the ankle. Referees have been told to crack down on that sort of challenge by FIFA, so the ref was right to send the man off. It was a nasty tackle.

It'll be a good game.

I still think Italy will win. They have quality throughout their side, even if they are a man down and Totti has been substituted. Come on, when you can bring on a player of Gattuso's quality from the bench, you can't really complain.
Thanks for clearing that up :D

Gonna be interesting now: 10 vs. 10

Argh. That was clearly NOT aimed for the ball, http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/redcard.gif absolutely justified as well.

Kudos to the ref, good decisions so far, he's really where he's needed most!

That's a ridiculous red card. Ridiculous. I'm pissed off.

Someone seems reasonable. Yellow would have been overdoing it. Hasn't that same kind of "foul" been going on all the time?

Red card for America! Mastroeni for a 'reckless' tackle. He was late, studs first on the ankle. Referees have been told to crack down on that sort of challenge by FIFA, so the ref was right to send the man off. It was a nasty tackle.

That was a make-up call pure and simple. That's a yellow card at worst if Italy hadn't lost a man earlier (on a MUCH, MUCH worse takedown, I may add).

That's a ridiculous red card. Ridiculous. I'm pissed off.
C'mon! That was not a red card! Yellow, sure, but red?
No. That clearly was an attack directed at the player with no chance to get to the ball. 100% justified and just as stupid of the US player.

No. That clearly was an attack directed at the player with no chance to get to the ball. 100% justified and just as stupid of the US player.

Ummm.... I'm looking at the replay, and the American touched the ball.

Well... if Italy can stop scoring ALL the goals (in every net), we might see a decisive result in the second half.

I'm still sticking with 3-1 to italy.

Ummm.... I'm looking at the replay, and the American touched the ball.
No. No he didn't. Opinions are all well and good, but don't make up crap.

Too bad Football isn't like World War Two.:p
If it were like World war 2, the US would be late.

P.S. Viva Italia!

Red card for America! Mastroeni for a 'reckless' tackle. He was late, studs first on the ankle. Referees have been told to crack down on that sort of challenge by FIFA, so the ref was right to send the man off. It was a nasty tackle.

BULLSHIT!

This is a terrible officiating crew. That was a make-up red card. You will see that tackle all day long. The U.S. has dominated this game, but the officials seem to think the game is more about them than the two teams.

Uhm... to coin my favorite highschool phrase: What does that mean?!?

sorry, just remembered that phrase has connotations your side of the pond:

cracker = cracking game = good game.

things are getting interesting now, and there is a definite edge to it.

landon donovan might regret standing in a US military base taking about 'waging war' on the US ally Italy.

No. No he didn't. Opinions are all well and good, but don't make up crap.

I'm looking at the damn replay on TiVo. He touched it; either that or the Italian intentionally passed it to an American in his own zone.

To people trying to defend Mastroeni, here's my view of it.

He went in for the challenge fractionally after the ball was played, and therefore probably had the intention of going for the ball. However, once the ball was gone, he made absolutely no attempt to pull out out of the challenge. His studs were up all the way through, which referees have been told to clamp down on. He did not touch the ball at all. He did not need to go sliding in - he could have stayed on his feet and attempted an interception of the pass.

Finally, the referee was right on the spot - less than 5 metres away - and made his decision immediately.

If the U.S. keeps playing like they did in the first half they will beat Italy today (in spite of the officials).

Well, USA brought their game this time. :D

And I have to agree with German Nightmares on the red card after watching the replay.

Whether it was a good call or not it made the game (and this Thread) more interesting.:D

To people trying to defend Mastroeni, here's my view of it.

He went in for the challenge fractionally after the ball was played, and therefore probably had the intention of going for the ball. However, once the ball was gone, he made absolutely no attempt to pull out out of the challenge. His studs were up all the way through, which referees have been told to clamp down on. He did not touch the ball at all. He did not need to go sliding in - he could have stayed on his feet and attempted an interception of the pass.

Finally, the referee was right on the spot - less than 5 metres away - and made his decision immediately.

Yes, and that is why he deserved a yellow card and a warning. The red card was pure make up for the early red against Italy.

BULLSHIT!

This is a terrible officiating crew. That was a make-up red card. You will see that tackle all day long. The U.S. has dominated this game, but the officials seem to think the game is more about them than the two teams.
No you don't see tackles like that all day long. Players rarely throw themself into tackles with their studs up. There is no bias by the referees. Please stop trying to claim there is.

Updated prediction
2-1 US

hoping for 3-1 to help us with goal differential, but can't be greedy

and that was a blown call. yellow card, sure, red, definately not.

To people trying to defend Mastroeni, here's my view of it.

He went in for the challenge fractionally after the ball was played, and therefore probably had the intention of going for the ball. However, once the ball was gone, he made absolutely no attempt to pull out out of the challenge. His studs were up all the way through, which referees have been told to clamp down on. He did not touch the ball at all. He did not need to go sliding in - he could have stayed on his feet and attempted an interception of the pass.

Finally, the referee was right on the spot - less than 5 metres away - and made his decision immediately.

studs up, missed the ball, a FIFA clampdown on those challenges.

he had been warned.

I'm not sure how relevant the Europe disadvantage thing is going to be in the future since a sizeable proportion from the S. American teams play in Europe nowadays.
True. Also the physical preparation techniques have nowadays are very concerned with preparing the athletes for the climate they will be playing in.

Yes, and that is why he deserved a yellow card and a warning. The red card was pure make up for the early red against Italy.
No. Read the words that I am typing!

He didn't try to pull out.

His studs were up.

It was a dangerous challenge.

Referees have been told to crack down on these sorts of challenges.

The referee was right to send him off.

studs up, missed the ball, a FIFA clampdown on those challenges.

he had been warned.
Thank you! A sensible person! ;)

To people trying to defend Mastroeni, here's my view of it.

He went in for the challenge fractionally after the ball was played, and therefore probably had the intention of going for the ball. However, once the ball was gone, he made absolutely no attempt to pull out out of the challenge. His studs were up all the way through, which referees have been told to clamp down on. He did not touch the ball at all. He did not need to go sliding in - he could have stayed on his feet and attempted an interception of the pass.

Finally, the referee was right on the spot - less than 5 metres away - and made his decision immediately.

OK, clamp down with a YELLOW CARD! Why give a red card for a marginal call? In my opinion, it was simply a foul. No malice in that tackle, just a tad late,and I still contend he got a piece of the ball -- it's obvious if you look where the ball went. The red card is overkill if the tackle was not malicious or reckless. That was simply a man going for the ball.

No you don't see tackles like that all day long. Players rarely throw themself into tackles with their studs up. There is no bias by the referees. Please stop trying to claim there is.

Crap, crap, and double crap. That was a standard rough tackle that usually earns a yellow card. I am not saying the official is bias. He may merely be incompetent. I'll give him the benifit of the doubt.

Someone seems reasonable. Yellow would have been overdoing it. Hasn't that same kind of "foul" been going on all the time?
And each and everytime a play like that is going on, you will get a red card!

OK, clamp down with a YELLOW CARD! Why give a red card for a marginal call? In my opinion, it was simply a foul. No malice in that tackle, just a tad late,and I still contend he got a piece of the ball -- it's obvious if you look where the ball went. The red card is overkill if the tackle was not malicious or reckless. That was simply a man going for the ball.
Some referees would give a yellow, some would give a red. That was before FIFA told them to give reds. The players know this, yet Mastroeni still went in for the tackle like he did. He deserved a red, for stupidity if nothing else. And I've seen at least a dozen replays of it, from various angles, and I don't see the American getting the ball until the Italian was pretty much on the floor.

Ummm.... I'm looking at the replay, and the American touched the ball.
He went straight into the ankle of the opposing player and risked him being seriously hurt. That calls for a red card where I come from.
He didn't touch the ball, the change of direction comes from the Italian player.

Crap, crap, and double crap. That was a standard rough tackle that usually earns a yellow card. I am not saying the official is bias. He may merely be incompetent. I'll give him the benifit of the doubt.
That wasn't a standard rough tackle. A standard rough tackle wouldn't have been made with studs up. That's the key to the whole thing. Mastroeni went in with studs up.

By the way, he was not studs-up. I'm not sure what play you were watching. EDIT: I've watched the play about a dozen times on TiVo.

No. Read the words that I am typing!

He didn't try to pull out.

His studs were up.

It was a dangerous challenge.

Referees have been told to crack down on these sorts of challenges.

The referee was right to send him off.


Boo hoo. Dangerous my ass. It's a man's game, not a tea party. It was a bullshit attempt to offset the red given earlier. These officials have been pulling out the cards and blowing their whistles far too much in this World Cup. If they want to call more penalties how about for the epidemic of pussy dives?

That was a very poor call, as replay showed he got part of the ball, and I saw no intent to injur, a reckless tackle though, and deserving of a yellow card. No warn from ref just red card. Its ashame the ref wants to even them up so badly.

BULLSHIT!

This is a terrible officiating crew. That was a make-up red card. You will see that tackle all day long. The U.S. has dominated this game, but the officials seem to think the game is more about them than the two teams.
No, it was as justified as the other one. While I've seen some bad decisions being made during this tournament, those two are not among them.

Yes, and that is why he deserved a yellow card and a warning. The red card was pure make up for the early red against Italy.

No - I don't think so... although I think it has certainly given some ammunition to those among the US support team, that are looking for something to blame when Italy stuffs them 3-1.

The tackle was WAY excessive.

And then there were nine.

It's a festival of cards!!!

EDIT: I wonder if it can finish with the two goalies only.

What The Hell????

sorry, just remembered that phrase has connotations your side of the pond:

cracker = cracking game = good game.

things are getting interesting now, and there is a definite edge to it.

landon donovan might regret standing in a US military base taking about 'waging war' on the US ally Italy.
And the US have another "casualty" with a yellow-red.

Italia (10) vs. USA (9) 1:1

Crazy!

Another bullshit yellow/red card.

I'm sorry, but that was bull.

USA down to 10 men! they're oing to get cut to shreds

No you don't see tackles like that all day long. Players rarely throw themself into tackles with their studs up. There is no bias by the referees. Please stop trying to claim there is.
I'm absolutely with you here. I remember exactly one such tackle from the last few days that I saw and it also was punished by an immediate red card (can't remember the game).

And the referee was standing right next to it.

I also have no idea where this claim of bias is coming from in a game where both teams just got a red card.

I watched almost all of the games so far, and referee bias is one thing i have yet to see. Seriously, people.

He touched the fucking ball first. Why the hell did he get a yellow for that?!?!?!?!

Ahh, this is FUNNY. It's almost as if the US is dragging Italy down.

Well, one thing is for sure, that BULLSHIT pussy call will get team U.S.A. even more fired up for the second half. They dominated the first half.

3-1 U.S.A.

If the U.S. keeps playing like they did in the first half they will beat Italy today (in spite of the officials).

How do you work that? Italy has dominated on the field, had one really good chance on goal, and capitalised on it.

The only reason USA is still IN it, is because of stupidity.

We were tied after the 1st half 1-1. Then the refs got all critical and took some of our playas out. That sucks, Italy has more playas on the field then US, so they should win.

Yes, and that is why he deserved a yellow card and a warning. The red card was pure make up for the early red against Italy.
If you don't agree to the football rules, go play jojo. This kind of dangerous game is simply unacceptable and the US team is suffering the consequences of its harsh, brutal play.

Ok, that was a dodgy yellow. Foul, yes. He had to go through the man to reach the ball. Yellow? Again, some would give it, some wouldn't. And, IIRC, I don't think Pope deserved his first yellow - I know some refs wouldn't even give it as a foul.

When the own goal happened followed by an obvious foul right next to the referree I thought someone must have paid the Italians off. Now I don't have a clue what's happening in this game.

Once the games over, the ref might be handing out burgers and saying Thank You for eating at Mc Donalds.

Well, one thing is for sure, that BULLSHIT pussy call will get team U.S.A. even more fired up for the second half. They dominated the first half.

3-1 U.S.A.
They only dominated once Italy were down to ten men. Before that it had been about equal all across the pitch. America were creating more chances, marginally, but their finishing wasn't as good.

If you don't agree to the football rules, go play jojo. This kind of dangerous game is simply unacceptable and the US team is suffering the consequences of its harsh, brutal play.

Nice flamebaiting, troll.

OK, clamp down with a YELLOW CARD! Why give a red card for a marginal call? In my opinion, it was simply a foul. No malice in that tackle, just a tad late,and I still contend he got a piece of the ball -- it's obvious if you look where the ball went. The red card is overkill if the tackle was not malicious or reckless. That was simply a man going for the ball.
If that ain't been reckless I wouldn't know what is!

Same goes for the yellow-red. If you've been warned with a yellow, you just shouldn't play like that and get another one!

I also have no idea where this claim of bias is coming from in a game where both teams just got a red card.

It isn't bias. Nobody is saying the officials want the Italians to win. It is officials realizing Italy was in the hole for the first red card trying to even out the match with a red card for a marginal call.

Ok, that was a dodgy yellow. Foul, yes. He had to go through the man to reach the ball. Yellow? Again, some would give it, some wouldn't. And, IIRC, I don't think Pope deserved his first yellow - I know some refs wouldn't even give it as a foul.

The games so far have been pretty brutal - too... way too many fouls, for the numbers of goals being scored.

It is no surprise that the refs are cracking down on it.

you cant really be accepting this uruguay guy's calls plain and simple this is perhaps the worse display of officiating I have ever seen. :upyours:

They only dominated once Italy were down to ten men. Before that it had been about equal all across the pitch. America were creating more chances, marginally, but their finishing wasn't as good.

The U.S. dominated in time of possession and in scoring opportunities BEFORE the man advantage.

It isn't bias. Nobody is saying the officials want the Italians to win. It is officials realizing Italy was in the hole for the first red card trying to even out the match with a red card for a marginal call.
That is bias. Get a dictionary.

Referees do sometimes try evening things up when they feel they've got an earlier decision wrong, but the entire stadium could see that De Rossi deserved to be sent off.

Boo hoo. Dangerous my ass. It's a man's game, not a tea party. It was a bullshit attempt to offset the red given earlier. These officials have been pulling out the cards and blowing their whistles far too much in this World Cup. If they want to call more penalties how about for the epidemic of pussy dives?
Listen pal, if your players can't play according to the rules of real football, maybe you shouldn't play at all.

Don't like it? Tough luck. Get out of FIFA and play a "world cup" or "world serious" like you always do.

It isn't bias. Nobody is saying the officials want the Italians to win. It is officials realizing Italy was in the hole for the first red card trying to even out the match with a red card for a marginal call.
Well, that *would* be bias. Why would he have *any* interest whatsoever in "evening out the match"??

Nice flamebaiting, troll.
How is that flame baiting or trolling?

The games so far have been pretty brutal - too... way too many fouls, for the numbers of goals being scored.

It is no surprise that the refs are cracking down on it.

It hasn't been brutal. It just looks that way because FIFA allows such Golden Globe winning performances by players who dive if a stiff breeze blows through their hair.

That was a very poor call, as replay showed he got part of the ball, and I saw no intent to injur, a reckless tackle though, and deserving of a yellow card. No warn from ref just red card. Its ashame the ref wants to even them up so badly.
You don't know what you're talking about, noob!

The U.S. dominated in time of possession and in scoring opportunities BEFORE the man advantage.
Possession is 50/50, and Italy haven't had that much more since they had a man sent off. Italy have had 4 fewer attempts on target, but America had most of the surplus there after De Rossi went. America have had three corners to Italy's one.

Most interesting stat - Italy have committed 8 fouls. America? 21.

I believe I can confirm that everyone, everywhere, regardless of the sport that is being observed, questions the officials. Constantly.

And furthermore, they call those who disagree with them (including the officials) total morons.

I'm glad we can all come together around something. We can all agree "The ref is wrong!"

Well - they finally took Zaccardo off... so we might see another Italian push now.

You don't know what you're talking about, noob!
Calm down, dude. Do this: :)

Another bullshit yellow/red card.
I'm sorry, but that was bull.
And again: If you already have a yellow card, you don't play that way and risk another one! Simple as that!

Too bad Italy can't execute a crossing pass.

It hasn't been brutal. It just looks that way because FIFA allows such Golden Globe winning performances by players who dive if a stiff breeze blows through their hair.

Not brutal? I take it you didn't watch the Iran game, today?

And again: If you already have a yellow card, you don't play that way and risk another one! Simple as that!
Especially when there's been another red card deliverd shortly before - a sort of statement of intent that players who foul will be punished.

And again: If you already have a yellow card, you don't play that way and risk another one! Simple as that!

Wait a minute... you stop playing defense when you have a yellow card? I don't remember ever hearing that from my coach.

Not brutal? I take it you didn't watch the Iran game, today?
yeah but that is Iran lol

Nice flamebaiting, troll.
Neither flamebaiting nor a troll, http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/newbie.gif

I just happen to have a) watched all the WC games so far and b) know football and its rules.

Looks to me like the game could go either way. After all that has happened a 1-1 tie would be a disappointment though.

Beasley is coming in, let's hope he doesnt repeat his preformance with the Czech

Wait a minute... you stop playing defense when you have a yellow card? I don't remember ever hearing that from my coach.
No, but you go into tackles more cautiously. Let's be honest, the Italian player wasn't going anywhere, there were another couple of American players around to deal with it, yet Pope went in for a dodgy tackle anyway. He can't really complain.

Listen pal, if your players can't play according to the rules of real football, maybe you shouldn't play at all.

Don't like it? Tough luck. Get out of FIFA and play a "world cup" or "world serious" like you always do.

Are we letting you folks run your own country yet? I forget.

Calm down, dude. Do this: :)
;) Thanks for that. :p

Honestly, this is the worst game I've seen in a long time. And I really don't blame the referee, either.

No, but you go into tackles more cautiously. Let's be honest, the Italian player wasn't going anywhere, there were another couple of American players around to deal with it, yet Pope went in for a dodgy tackle anyway. He can't really complain.

the pope red was questionable but that bs call on Morteni (sp) was what really pissed me off.

You really think this will spark a lot of discussion? You forget that we just DON'T CARE about the World Cup in the U.S... so not many will argue with passion on the American side.

yeah that's right make your excuses now

Are we letting you folks run your own country yet? I forget.
Low blow man. What's your point?

USA offsides. Crap. :(

The US comes close to getting the lead.

Does anybody else thinks that the US is actually playing BETTER than Italy? I think they are.

Gahhhh...so close.

Neither flamebaiting nor a troll, I just happen to have a) watched all the WC games so far and b) know football and its rules.

If you don't agree to the football rules, go play jojo. This kind of dangerous game is simply unacceptable and the US team is suffering the consequences of its harsh, brutal play.

Ummm, calling me a newbie doesn't change the fact that the tone of that post was arrogant, superior and condescending, telling those who disagree with you to play jojo, and that you were over-the-top in defending a marginal call as deserved by the U.S. because of its "harsh, brutal play..." it wasn't a reasonable post. You're not stupid, so I assume you were being a troll.

Are we letting you folks run your own country yet? I forget.
Now this might be considered flamebaiting. There ya go: http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/flamethrower.gif

What the hell's going on out there? I'm listening to the game on the radio and it sounds like a pub grudge match! They'll be playing five-a-side at this rate.

damn offsides

the second USA goal should have counted.. The off-side playa did not touch the ball.

Still think this game is being well called by the officiating crew?

What crap.

Ummm, calling me a newbie doesn't change the fact that the tone of that post was arrogant, superior and condescending, telling those who disagree with you to play jojo, and that you were over-the-top in defending a marginal call as deserved by the U.S. because of its "harsh, brutal play..." it wasn't a reasonable post. You're not stupid, so I assume you were being a troll.
GM was not over the top in defending "a marginal call...because of its "harsh, brutal play..."". America have made over 25 fouls in this match - many matches pass without that number being reached by both teams combined. I'd say that's pretty harsh and brutal. And it wasn't a marginal call. This is the last time I say this. Referees have been told to crack down on dangerous tackles, a la Mastroeni's. It was not a surprise he was sent off.

the second USA goal should have counted.. The off-side playa did not touch the ball.

They said he was blocking the view of the goaltender... whatever.

Wow. People with a heart condition shouldn't watch this match. :D

Now this might be considered flamebaiting. There ya go: http://www.studip.uni-goettingen.de/pictures/smile/flamethrower.gif

Hey, Fritz, I'm not the one who started with the insults. Can't take the heat then don't invade Poland.

'nother yellow.

You don't know what you're talking about, noob!

I've played competitive soccer for 8 years. This being my first two posts has nothing to do with my soccer expertise. Really, get a life.

Another Yellow....:(

Wow, another yellow... crazy.

Very ticky-tack yellow on Italy.

Please have respect for the Officials.

They can only see things once, and often from weird prespectives, with other players blocking the way. Also, they have to make split-second decistions,

The do not have the advantage of slow-montion replays, or being able to see the game from avobe.

but I think that too many yellows are being handed out this World Cup

the second USA goal should have counted.. The off-side playa did not touch the ball.
Wondered if someone would say that. The player was 'actively offside' - ie. he was interfering with play while in an offside position. He was standing between the player who took the shot and the goalkeeper, thus impeding the 'keeper while in an offside position. It was a good decision.

Please have respect for the Officials.



WHAT!!!

They are calling a terrible game. What is to respect?

Good save.

Wondered if someone would say that. The player was 'actively offside' - ie. he was interfering with play while in an offside position. He was standing between the player who took the shot and the goalkeeper, thus impeding the 'keeper while in an offside position. It was a good decision.

I have no problem with that call; the man was offsides and affected the play.

Nice save.

*cheers*

Good save.
Yup.

the second USA goal should have counted.. The off-side playa did not touch the ball.

The commentator here (who actually seems to know what he's talking about) said it was because McBride offside "irritating" the keeper, blocking his sight, something like that (which is why the keeper hardly reacted to the shot). I really don't know the rules well enough, but he made it seem quite clear cut, actually.

In fact, he's been praising the referee all the time, saying he's been giving a flawless performance in this rather awful game.

And seeing how I'm in Germany, I'd say our commentator is as unbiased as can be in this case.


ETA: Ugh, reading helps... I V Stalin said everything upthread already. <.< >.>

Beautiful save by Keller.

Beautiful save by Keller.
Excuse me, less of the positive comments please. ;)

The commentator here (who actually seems to know what he's talking about) as far as I am concerned.. TV World Cup "experts" have lost all credibility long ago.

WHAT!!!

They are calling a terrible game. What is to respect?
way to exclude the rest of my argument

Hey, Fritz, I'm not the one who started with the insults. Can't take the heat then don't invade Poland.

What are you, some sort of fucking inquisitor? You obviously don't know the first thing about Germany, or Europe in generaly, so please do us all a favour and STFU.

Ummm, calling me a newbie doesn't change the fact that the tone of that post was arrogant, superior and condescending, telling those who disagree with you to play jojo, and that you were over-the-top in defending a marginal call as deserved by the U.S. because of its "harsh, brutal play..." it wasn't a reasonable post. You're not stupid, so I assume you were being a troll.
Listen pal, the FIFA rules have been explained to the players, the trainers and especially to the referees. The latter were instructed to call that kind of foul with a red card and this ref did just that. Complaining about it and going http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/Foul.gif doesn't change a thing about it.

Calling you a noob was out of line and I apologize for that.

Still doesn't disprove my resent for calls of a "manly game" being played "like that or worse" to paraphrase that. That was when I went a little astray.

"arrogant, superior and condescending"?
Yeah. Whatever. Straight forward, speaking my mind, and being absolutely football-crazed is how I would paraphrase it ;)

Excuse me, less of the positive comments please. ;)

I mean, damn Italian let Keller save it. What a moron.

Anybody else smell a tie coming?

The problem with the US´s players are .... they don´t play football ..... they play soccer.:p

WHAT!!!

They are calling a terrible game. What is to respect?
No, they have to be referee in a terrible game. There's a difference.

The problem with the US´s players are .... they don´t play football ..... they play soccer.:p
Or they don't play soccer, they play football (American).

Listen pal, the FIFA rules have been explained to the players, the trainers and especially to the referees. The latter were instructed to call that kind of foul with a red card and this ref did just that. Complaining about it and going http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y223/GermanNightmare/Foul.gif doesn't change a thing about it.

Calling you a noob was out of line and I apologize for that.

Still doesn't disprove my resent for calls of a "manly game" being played "like that or worse" to paraphrase that. That was when I went a little astray.

"arrogant, superior and condescending"?
Yeah. Whatever. Straight forward, speaking my mind, and being absolutely football-crazed is how I would paraphrase it ;)

OK, truce.

If that ain't been reckless I wouldn't know what is!

Same goes for the yellow-red. If you've been warned with a yellow, you just shouldn't play like that and get another one!The way I see it.. for this game the USA team has borrowed a page from the German book..

the US is playing just like Germany play.. when they play talented teams.

The way this ref is distributing reds and yellows, Germany would finish with 9 players most of the time.

I mean, damn Italian let Keller save it. What a moron.
That's more like it. Looks like it'll end 1-1, though it's end to end stuff. Either team could score, what with all the space there is on the pitch.

Hey, Fritz, I'm not the one who started with the insults. Can't take the heat then don't invade Poland.
And I really don't like being called or compared to a nazi. You brought that topic into this thread. Others can look out for themselves.

Or they don't play soccer, they play football (American).

A good possibility too.:p

I've played competitive soccer for 8 years. This being my first two posts has nothing to do with my soccer expertise. Really, get a life.
Then you should know the rules by heart and shouldn't be surprised by the referee's decisions.

He sent it out of the field with no receiver in sight just to stop the clock! That's a 10 yard penalty!

Oh, wait, wrong football... nevermind. ;)

What are you, some sort of fucking inquisitor? You obviously don't know the first thing about Germany, or Europe in generaly, so please do us all a favour and STFU.

Stay out of this, pussy. I wasn't talking to you. German Wetdream started this. It has nothing to do with you.

No, they have to be referee in a terrible game. There's a difference.
no they suck period. bad calls for both sides the two red cards for the americans one or two of the offsides against the italians and that one yellow card on the push for the italians
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Come on American fans cheer with me!!!!
We are the yankees
We are not afraid
You beat us tonight
Tomorrow we invade!!!!!

People, people, calm down. This is football, it's not worth starting a war over.

He sent it out of the field with no receiver in sight just to stop the clock! That's a 10 yard penalty!

Oh, wait, wrong football... nevermind. ;)

Haha, nice one.

OK, truce.
Yeah, sorry 'bout that. Hope you know how it is - I got a little carried away in the heat of the match, too. :)

The way I see it.. for this game the USA team has borrowed a page from the German book..

the US is playing just like Germany play.. when they play talented teams.

The way this ref is distributing reds and yellows, Germany would finish with 9 players most of the time.
And rightly so, I'd say. While I certainly wouldn't like it, I'd have to accept it!

Corner for Italy...

Come on USA, hold them off for at least 3 minutes into stoppage time. Make it a tie, and I'm happy. Win, and I do some very crazy stuff.