NationStates Jolt Archive

The World Cup 2006 finals are between Italy and France. What are your predictions for this game?

I truly hope it isn't going to be another nothing to nothing game that we've seen so frequently in the world cup. I hope for something like a 3-2 win... rather than one goal to end the game.

I don't know who to root for, though, I've been rooting for both these teams as they've come to the finals. I think I'll go with Italy.

As for my prediction, 2-1 win by Italy. A 60-minute-ish goal by France followed by two late Italy goals.

NOTE: Since both of these teams are excellent, and I really hate poll clutter, the "3+" option has been eliminated.

You do understand the game is over, right? And that there already was a thread on it?

No, thats Portugal Vs France

France won that

Now the Final is between France and Italy

I'd say Italy. Depends on how France play on the day.

It could be the France of the Brazil game, or the France of the Swiss game.

Italy seem pretty solid, espicially in the back with Cannevaro.

Brazil

Beat ya both to a post and a delete.

Grudgingly, France. Purely because the Italians are more annoying

Italy's going to win 2-0.

It should be Spain, but, hey.

France.

France of course

I predict the match will be like a swimming contests with dives everywhere not so much on the French side of course

France, bien sur!

2-0 Italy. France just can't seem to get the *bleep* ball into the net unless its a penalty.

2-2 after 90 minutes. 4-2 to Italy after extra-time.

1-0 Italy.

Does anyone else think the French national team should change its name to the African national team?

*raises eyebrow*

I'm sure Barthez, Coupet, Sagnol, Ribery, Pires amongst others would be surprised by that.

*raises eyebrow*

I'm sure Barthez, Coupet, Sagnol, Ribery, Pires amongst others would be surprised by that.

Believe me, most of them wont be there next time.

Believe me, most of them wont be there next time.
So? Thats four years away.

Vieira, Henry, Zidane, Barthez, Thuram, Makelele, Sagnol, Wiltord probably won't be there either.

What's your point?

So? Thats four years away.

Vieira, Henry, Zidane, Barthez, Thuram, Makelele, Sagnol, Wiltord probably won't be there either.

What's your point?
Too many blacks....

Too many blacks....
Ah, I'd better warn Barthez, Coupet, Ribery, Zidane and Sagnol that.

So? Thats four years away.

Vieira, Henry, Zidane, Barthez, Thuram, Makelele, Sagnol, Wiltord probably won't be there either.

What's your point?

http://www.users.muohio.edu/miyamadm/francesoccer.jpg

3 French players there.

Overwhelmingly African and non-French, this means it would make more sense to call that team an African team.

Like wise if the German team was overwhlemingly Turkish then it would make sense to rename it a Turkish team.

Its pretty simple. Like 4th grade math.

Italy - France...

Why did I immediately thought of this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrShK-NVMIU)..?

It'll be most likely the pinnacle of football, surely...

It SHOULD be Argentina there... but since they aren't; Italy 2-1

http://www.users.muohio.edu/miyamadm/francesoccer.jpg

3 French players there.

Overwhelmingly African and non-French, this means it would make more sense to call that team an African team.

Like wise if the German team was overwhlemingly Turkish then it would make sense to rename it a Turkish team.

Its pretty simple. Like 4th grade math.
Meanwhile their passports say they are French, do they are.

http://www.users.muohio.edu/miyamadm/francesoccer.jpg

3 French players there.

Overwhelmingly African and non-French, this means it would make more sense to call that team an African team.

Like wise if the German team was overwhlemingly Turkish then it would make sense to rename it a Turkish team.

Its pretty simple. Like 4th grade math.

Really? Well that photo is 4 years old itself, but I'll pick through it (and the current team) for the laugh:

Henry- born in Essonne Paris Aug 17, 1977
Trezeguet- born Rouen, Oct 15 1977
Wiltord born- Neuilly-sur-Marne, May 10 1974
Gallas- born Asnières-sur-Seine Aug 17 1977
Sagnol- born Saint- Etienne March 18, 1977
Petit- born Dieppe Sept 22 1970
Cisse- born Arles Aug 12 1981
Lizarazu- born Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Dec 6 1969

Ok?

Take your racist bile elsewhere.

http://www.users.muohio.edu/miyamadm/francesoccer.jpg

3 French players there.

Overwhelmingly African and non-French, this means it would make more sense to call that team an African team.

Like wise if the German team was overwhlemingly Turkish then it would make sense to rename it a Turkish team.

Its pretty simple. Like 4th grade math.
Does it matter that the photo was from the last World Cup...?

Really? Well that photo is 4 years old itself, but I'll pick through it (and the current team) for the laugh:

Henry- born in Essonne Paris Aug 17, 1977
Trezeguet- born Rouen, Oct 15 1977
Wiltord born- Neuilly-sur-Marne, May 10 1974
Gallas- born Asnières-sur-Seine Aug 17 1977
Sagnol- born Saint- Etienne March 18, 1977
Petit- born Dieppe Sept 22 1970
Cisse- born Arles Aug 12 1981
Lizarazu- born Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Dec 6 1969

Ok?

Take your racist bile elsewhere.

mhmm

Where were their parents and grandparents from? :rolleyes:

Also the word racist has no effect on me.

Well, if France continues this 1-0 shut out trend... then I'm gunna say 1-0 France. :eek: THEY BETTER WIN!!!!

Really? Well that photo is 4 years old itself, but I'll pick through it (and the current team) for the laugh:

Henry- born in Essonne Paris Aug 17, 1977
Trezeguet- born Rouen, Oct 15 1977
Wiltord born- Neuilly-sur-Marne, May 10 1974
Gallas- born Asnières-sur-Seine Aug 17 1977
Sagnol- born Saint- Etienne March 18, 1977
Petit- born Dieppe Sept 22 1970
Cisse- born Arles Aug 12 1981
Lizarazu- born Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Dec 6 1969

Ok?

Take your racist bile elsewhere.

QFT

It's not their fault they're black, and happen to be better than everyone else such that they are in the national team.

mhmm

Where were their parents and grandparents from? :rolleyes:


What does that matter? So what if their parents/grandparents weren't born in France proper (most who weren't were actually descended from former French Imperial territories)?

The players YOU tried to pawn off as being 'foreign', were all born in France, all hold French passports, all speak the language fluently etc etc.

(Whuch is more than I can say about the German team this time round as a matter of fact....)

mhmm

Where were their parents and grandparents from? :rolleyes:

I truly hope your father is an asshole so that I can call you an asshole too, regardless of who you are.

QFT

It's not their fault they're black, and happen to be better than everyone else such that they are in the national team.


So your saying the White French cant play soccer?

Thats a racist comment.

Italy all the way!

So your saying the White French cant play soccer?

Thats a racist comment.
Clearly with Barthez, Rirbery, Coupet, Landreau and Sagnol to name a few- they can.

So your saying the White French cant play soccer?

Thats a racist comment.

So you're saying that you condone Hitler's genocide of the Jews?

That's racist and disgusting! You should be ashamed of yourself!

Italy, no way!

I agree.

http://www.users.muohio.edu/miyamadm/francesoccer.jpg

3 French players there.

Overwhelmingly African and non-French, this means it would make more sense to call that team an African team.
Except that regardless of race these men are French citizens, and they are among the best players in their country.

So you're saying that you condone Hitler's genocide of the Jews?

That's racist and disgusting! You should be ashamed of yourself!

My grandparents fought in the Red Army during WWII.

:upyours:

So you're saying that you condone Hitler's genocide of the Jews?

That's racist and disgusting! You should be ashamed of yourself!
I'm too drunk to understand that... how does it work with this: "So your saying the White French cant play soccer?"..?

Anyway, racist babble aside, I'll go with a 2-1 victory for France.

Italy - France...

Why did I immediately thought of this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrShK-NVMIU)..?

It'll be most likely the pinnacle of football, surely...
Thank you for linking that. I pissed myself laughing! MP is the best.

My grandparents fought in the Red Army during WWII.

:upyours:

I'm too drunk to understand that... how does it work with this: "So your saying the White French cant play soccer?"..?

I claimed that because these French people (who happen to be black) end up being better than everyone else so that they get to play in the national team, it's not their fault.

Russia then put words into my mouth implying that I claimed that the black French people are better at soccer than the white French people. I then put words into his mouth that he condoned Hitler's actions. It seemed to have flown right past him, though.

Now, ---Russia----, I don't give a flying fuck what a person's colour, gender, nationality, etc. unless I'm talking about history. The fact is, the French people currently playing for France's football team were better than everyone else French, agreed? Otherwise, someone else would be playing instead.

There are people in France, that are French, who happen to have black skin colour. Just because there are more of these people that are better at soccer (to make the national team), doesn't give you justification to call it the "African" team. That is extremely ignorant and idiotic.

mhmm

Where were their parents and grandparents from? :rolleyes:

Also the word racist has no effect on me.
Because you don't know what it means?

Look, son, someone from Ghana has a baby in the US, then guess what, that child is a US citizen. Grandparentage doesn't mean squat and you know it. Any player of African ancestry can play for whatever country he or she was born in regardless of where their forebears hatched.

I want France to win, but I think it will be Italy 1-0. They've just got more & more impressive as the tournament has gone on.

The Steelers will win again...

Because you don't know what it means?



Because im not weak enough to fall back on my arguements based on that stupid word.

Liberals go crazy with the word "racist" and they use it left and right upon anyone who even just slightly annoys them or disagrees with them(if you dont beleive in what the Liberal herd believes in then your a "racist")

And dont you ever call me son again.

Liberals go crazy with the word "racist" and they use it left and right upon anyone who even just slightly annoys them or disagrees with them(if you dont beleive in what the Liberal herd believes in then your a "racist")

No, but you are racist if you automatically label any black person "African".

Because im not weak enough to fall back on my arguements based on that stupid word.

Liberals go crazy with the word "racist" and they use it left and right upon anyone who even just slightly annoys them or disagrees with them(if you dont beleive in what the Liberal herd believes in then your a "racist")

And dont you ever call me son again.
Did you just use the word 'liberal', when speaking of mainly european thing..? Please, go intellectual, or some/anything... don't use that word though. Does not compute -- or even relate.

My grandparents fought in the Red Army during WWII.
so what?
whatever your Grandparents did is nothing for you to take cradit/blame for.

If your grand-parents had fough for Germany.. that would not make you a good or a bad person..
.

:confused: :confused: I think France will win 2-1:confused: :confused:

Too many blacks....have you ever seen any of the dream-team-USA ?

Italy - France...

Why did I immediately thought of this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrShK-NVMIU)..?

It'll be most likely the pinnacle of football, surely...

HAHAHA!

Ah, I got a kick out of that one.

EDIT: Please excuse the rediculously stupid pun.

Oh, and guys:

For the Lord's sake, shut up about the race thing! (I did that big so ya'll could see it)

This is for predictions about the World Cup finals, not to bicker and argue about racism.

Oh, and I think the match will be 0-0, because I'm a rugby fan, and no matter how many goals are scored, both teams suck. :p

Because im not weak enough to fall back on my arguements based on that stupid word.

Liberals go crazy with the word "racist" and they use it left and right upon anyone who even just slightly annoys them or disagrees with them(if you dont beleive in what the Liberal herd believes in then your a "racist")

And dont you ever call me son again.
I'll call you a plate of fetid dingo's kidneys if I like, son, and there's nothing you can do about it.

Now that THAT's out of the way, let me tell you that I don't care if you fall back or not. That doesn't make you any less ignorant and yes, racist, for your earlier comments. It doesn't take a Liberal to see someone who "doesn't like darkies" and openly says so in a public forum. I'm sorry your parents messed you up like that, son, I really and truly am.

Son, you've dug yourself a huge hole, and if you enjoy wallowing in it, fine by me. I don't use the word racist as an epithet unless you earn it. You did. How you react is really not my problem.

Italy: Two to One

I have France by one goal (and BEFORE the game this time! Yay!), and unfortunately, I think it'll be a boring ol' 1-nil game.

2-1 France

SKIN COLOUR DOSEN'T MATTER WE ARE ALL EQUAL TO EACH OTHER,THERE SHOULD BE NO RACISM IN FOOTBALL RACIST TW*TS SO BACK OFF. I SUPPORT MANCHESTER CITY AND I ONLY JUDGE OUR PLAYERS BY EFFORT,ATTITUDE AND PERFORMACE. THESE ARE THE ONLY WAYS IN WHICH YOU SHOULD JUDGE A PLAYER NOT BY SKIN COLOUR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:upyours: SO ALL RACIST F*CK OFF!!!!!!!!!!!:upyours:

(Sorry to everyone else, I had to get that off my chest)

I'll call you a plate of fetid dingo's kidneys if I like, son, and there's nothing you can do about it.

Now that THAT's out of the way, let me tell you that I don't care if you fall back or not. That doesn't make you any less ignorant and yes, racist, for your earlier comments. It doesn't take a Liberal to see someone who "doesn't like darkies" and openly says so in a public forum. I'm sorry your parents messed you up like that, son, I really and truly am.

Son, you've dug yourself a huge hole, and if you enjoy wallowing in it, fine by me. I don't use the word racist as an epithet unless you earn it. You did. How you react is really not my problem.

fine call me son.

I will call you ....asshole from now on.

have you ever seen any of the dream-team-USA ?
I was just saying what the racist guys' point was.

fine call me son.

I will call you ....asshole from now on.
The difference, son, is that "asshole" will get you banned.

Keep tryin'.

SKIN COLOUR DOSEN'T MATTER WE ARE ALL EQUAL TO EACH OTHER, I'M A GIRL AND I KNOW MORE ABOUT RACISM IN FOOTBALL TO SOME OF YOU RACIST TW*TS SO BACK OFF. I SUPPORT MANCHESTER CITY AND I ONLY JUDGE OUR PLAYERS BY EFFORT,ATTITUDE AND PERFORMACE. THIS IS THE ONLY WAY YOU SHOULD JUDGE A PLAYER NOT BY SKIN COLOUR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:upyours: SO ALL RACIST F*CK OFF!!!!!!!!!!!:upyours:

(Sorry to everyone else, I had to get that off my chest)

What does your gender have to do with anything?

Are you saying men dont know anything about racism?

Thats a sexist statement. :p

What does your gender have to do with anything?

Are you saying men dont know anything about racism?

Thats a sexist statement. :p

I didn't mean that I was saying to the racist scum are they going to judge me for being a girl and loving football?

Sorry for the confusion

The difference, son, is that "asshole" will get you banned.

Keep tryin'.
I dunno...if you persistently call him son after he's asked you not to, that could be construed as flamebait...

HAHAHA!

Ah, I got a kick out of that one.

EDIT: Please excuse the rediculously stupid pun.

Oh, and guys:

For the Lord's sake, shut up about the race thing! (I did that big so ya'll could see it)

This is for predictions about the World Cup finals, not to bicker and argue about racism.

Oh, and I think the match will be 0-0, because I'm a rugby fan, and no matter how many goals are scored, both teams suck. :p

I thought quoting that couldn't hurt, even though I actually came to say that you probably needn't bother - I had no luck with yelling yesterday either. :( :headbang:

Remembering what Frisbeteeria said in my thread last night about how this kind of bullshit could spell the end for all world cup threads, I'm relieved that at least the racist creeps only come out this late in the game, but I'm even more disappointed and disgusted that they had to come out at all.



As for the game - I hope France wins. I haven't yet made up my mind about the result I actually expect. :p

I dunno...if you persistently call him son after he's asked you not to, that could be construed as flamebait...
I suppose you're right, but when his "asking" not to be called "son" comes off like a threat, the compunction is to give him what he's really asking for, just to see what he thinks he can do about it. Threatening someone, even implicitly, online is about the single stupidest act I can imagine without Bush being involved somehow.

He then claimed he wouldn't back down from the charge of racism, which is fine by me, but how can he expect someone else to back down from merely calling him "son" when asked in such a pejorative manner?

Hard to call. Depends very much on Zidane's and Pirlo's performance on the day.

I'm thinking it might be a 1:1 after normal time, with France taking it on penalties because Italy misses two.

I think thread-starters should have a say in what's going on in their thread (to a point).

Therefore, I mandate:
For the [existent, inexistent, or possibly existent God, god or gods]'s sake, shut up about the race thing!

...and all discussion will be about football.

Italy is definitely winning this world cup.

Pardon the drama:

VIVE LA FRANCE

France wins 1-nil, close - maybe just like the Portugal game [where the Italian GK steps out to help score a goal in the last 2 minutes :D]

Italy wins 2-1. They emerged from the real group of death without any major faults and took care of Australia and Ukraine. Then, infront of 60 000 screaming Germans, they beat Germany. France, on the other hand, looked pitiful in the opening games (and beating Togo isn't that impressive), beat Spain (whom always underachieves), Brazil (who was having a poor tournament by their standards) and beat an exhausted and foul-ridden Portugal. Besides, I picked Italy to win it all at the start of the World Cup and I can't back down now.

Sorry for not obeying the thread starter's message, but I just can't stay silent. Besides, I started typing this post before I spotted the oversized letters. A weak excuse, though I hope that you shall, nevertheless, forgive or simply ignore me.

What I wanted to say is that I'm really not quite fond of football, however, in this case Italy has my utter and all-consuming support (for the same reasons as those of --Russia--'s). Their national team projects a pleasant image, especially in comparison with other squads that were successful in this championship. Their players are the true representatives of their nation, as opposed to those ethnic minorities of France, the source of endless riots against the native population. Although France does sport a couple of proper Frenchmen among its ranks, with whom I sympathise, they actually look rather alien in this unwholesome ethnic mosaic. If Italy wins, it will not only show its class as a football team, but will also prove that stuffing that what should represent your national pride with foreign matter does not guarantee success. Let this sacrifice of identity for a minor victory be in vain. Let the Zulu horde, along with its Saracen leader, be crushed by the might of honourable Imperial legionaries in the name of our Europe. Roma Victor! Huzzah!

Sorry for not obeying the thread starter's message, but I just can't stay silent.Real shame, too. :rolleyes: I'm honestly wondering where opinion ends and trolling starts.

Real shame, too. :rolleyes: I'm honestly wondering where opinion ends and trolling starts.

Right.......there!

No, not there, a little further down, to the left. Perfect! *drops a bag of Troll food*

Anyways, if I had to make a call on a (insert adjective that is degrating, censored for my own survival) sport known as football, I say Italy. Why?

Because the Roman Empire conquored France.

I can not see France beating Italy this time. It will come down to how well Gattuso can stop Zidane (and I think he will own him), how well Makelele and Viera can control Totti and Pirlo (which I don't think they can) and how well the Italian forwards play. The French managed to stop Torres, sort of, but can they stop Toni and or Gilardino. I don't think so fo rthe whole game.

My early prediction is 1 - 0 to Italy.

But what about the third - fourth place match? Germany vs Portugal. I go for a 3 - 1 win to Germany.

But what about the third - fourth place match? Germany vs Portugal. I go for a 3 - 1 win to Germany.
Hopefully Germany will humiliate Portugal... and we'll get GA telling us how crap Germany played.

...racist bulshit...

Its pretty simple. Like 4th grade math.
Much like you, then?

Much like you, then?

because I point out that the french team is overwhlemingly African?

And when did I say that was bad?

They could be French citizens but that doesnt mean that they arent African anymore.

Dont overreact and dont be an idiot. :rolleyes:

Both ya'll, the OP said shut up. Do it.

And I'm with you Stalin. Praise to humiliation.

Anyhoo...back to the footie. I think Italy will prob seal it with a late goal.
Personally, I hope France will win it. But having watched Italy/Germany I think Italy will just be too good.
Their defence is bloody good this year - they've yet to concede a goal to any other team this World Cup.


May as well stick in the inevitable conspiracy theory: Italy were promised this WC, after the appalling ref'ing that had them kicked out of the last WC.

Hopefully Germany will humiliate Portugal... and we'll get GA telling us how crap Germany played.

Fat chance. Portugal will probably humiliate Germany. Just like it did in the Euro 2000 while playing with backups. :cool:

May as well stick in the inevitable conspiracy theory: Italy were promised this WC, after the appalling ref'ing that had them kicked out of the last WC.

A ref can throw an entire team out of the WC?

(NO, in case you didn't notice, I don't follow it. I just started watching it while I was in Russia and China since it was pretty much the only thing on TV)

Anyhoo...back to the footie. I think Italy will prob seal it with a late goal.
Personally, I hope France will win it. But having watched Italy/Germany I think Italy will just be too good.
Their defence is bloody good this year - they've yet to concede a goal to any other team this World Cup.


May as well stick in the inevitable conspiracy theory: Italy were promised this WC, after the appalling ref'ing that had them kicked out of the last WC.

Anyhoo??

Because you know you were wrong.

I win.

This arguement is over.







Italy will win 2-0

May as well stick in the inevitable conspiracy theory: Italy were promised this WC, after the appalling ref'ing that had them kicked out of the last WC.

Nah, Germany won the world cup on Italian soil, time for payback, Italy will win one on German soil.

(and let us not start on about Germans, Italians and French soil. - That had nothing to do with football.)

A ref can throw an entire team out of the WC?

(NO, in case you didn't notice, I don't follow it. I just started watching it while I was in Russia and China since it was pretty much the only thing on TV)
Lol, no, not literally. He meant the ref presumably made calls in favour of the other team that led to them winning and Italy losing, thus being out of the World Cup.

Lol, no, not literally. He meant the ref presumably made calls in favour of the other team that led to them winning and Italy losing, thus being out of the World Cup.

Ah, okay. It seems a lot of refs did that, there were a couple that I can recall (I don't remember who the teams were, though), where even I could tell they were bullshit calls.

Since both countries only made the final through theatrical performances in the penalty box, we can only assume and expect a whole lot of academy award nominations from the final.

France to win 3-2 on penalties, all of which are taken during regular time after further referree hoodwinking.

Anyhoo??

Because you know you were wrong.

I win.

This arguement is over.

Does anyone out there speak 'racist moron' and can translate for me what the fuck this guy's on about?

Lol, no, not literally. He meant the ref presumably made calls in favour of the other team that led to them winning and Italy losing, thus being out of the World Cup.
Quite.
Doesn't anyone here remember the South Korea/Italy game last World Cup?
The Ref'ing was so biased towards the Koreans.
Italy were ahead and looking comfortable. Late in the game Korea scored from what looked like an offside position, but was allowed.
The game went into extra time, an Italian got sent off (Totti I think) and Korea scored. They were playing 'Golden goal' so the game immediately ended.


Not that I truly believe it was a delibrate pre-arranged decision to get Korea through, and this WC is payback for Italy.
I just like making up crap conspiracy theories.
Now I just have to get Roswell, the fake moon landings and fluoridation in there somehow...

Fat chance. Portugal will probably humiliate Germany. Just like it did in the Euro 2000 while playing with backups. :cool:
Oh yeah? In 1936 Germany humiliated Portugal 3:1, in Lisboa. Obviously Portugal has no chance.

Hamster, don't feed the troll.

Oh yeah? In 1936 Germany humiliated Portugal 3:1, in Lisboa. Obviously Portugal has no chance.

Lol! :D

Oh yeah? In 1936 Germany humiliated Portugal 3:1, in Lisboa. Obviously Portugal has no chance.

This coming from a German. :p

Does anyone out there speak 'racist moron' and can translate for me what the fuck this guy's on about?

:) Dont be angry.

Just learn to read previous posts before you criticize anyone or their beliefs.

I think that France will win 1-0 if Henry continues the gold-medal diving. If you ask me they shouldn't even be where they are. They cheated both Spain and Portugal and now they will cheat another of their Romance neighbors.

Predicted Match Report (just goals):

53rd min. 0-0 Henry runs forward and passes to Ribery who passes back to him. The Italian defender slides in from in front and gains the ball before Henry reaches the ball. But what's this! Henry has tumbled over and is imploring to the referee with scheming eyes. The ref blows his whistle as the Italian stares open-mouthed. The ref points to the spot, it was in the area! Zizou places the ball and knocks it home. France one, Italy nil.

76th min. 1-0 Zizou uses his magic to pass to defenders and passes it furtively to Henry who is open at the edge of the area. Henry shoots as if that is all he knows how to do, and the ball curls sweetly into the back post. France two, Italy nil.

89th min. 2-0 Pirlo lobs the ball to Luca Toni who controls the ball well and chips it over the keeper. It bounces into the net but all too late as France take Germany '06.

Final score: France 2-1 Italy.

Hamster, don't feed the troll.
Sorry. I forgot. It won't happen again, sir.
Will you forgive me?

Italy vs France... Hmmm.

France.. In extra time or penalties.

If Italy play more like they did against Germany then they did against Ukraine, they will win 2-0. Hopefully we will see a clean game like the first semi and not the diving display we say last night.

For the likes of Russia: Owen Hargreves is a natralised German, has blood of Emglish and Welsh in him, he was born in Canada? Why should he play for? I think he can play for any becuase he is all four of them like the France players can play for France becuase they are French. It is good to see Perrin's(think I have the right guy) words get shoved down his throat. If I didn't want France to go far, it was becuase they didn't play well for many games and some of their diving.

Is Italy any better? How if a team is supposed to throw a game, did they not know about the corruption? Or the control of transfers, the bookings, it was an open joke in Italy. I question how much they knew and if winning the World Cup would be a sort of glory that the Italians use to hide thier problems as much as they can.

Would have prefered a Germany vs Argentina or Mexico final myself but there you go. Hope it is a good clean game

Italy 4-0. As usual.

I think that France will win 1-0 if Henry continues the gold-medal diving. If you ask me they shouldn't even be where they are. They cheated both Spain and Portugal and now they will cheat another of their Romance neighbors. I see. Christiano Ronaldo's many dives don't count because Portugal didn't beat France I assume?

I think that France will win 1-0 if Henry continues the gold-medal diving. If you ask me they shouldn't even be where they are. They cheated both Spain and Portugal and now they will cheat another of their Romance neighbors.

What, and Italy deserves to be there, after diving Australia out of the Ro16?

ITALY! I hate France in every way, so go ITALY!

It will be a close game. 1-0 for either team: Italy if they can control Zidane and Henry, France if they can keep the ball in the Italian half.

What, and Italy deserves to be there, after diving Australia out of the Ro16? I thought you hated the Australian team?

I think that France will win 1-0 if Henry continues the gold-medal diving. *snip*
I wish I knew what you were on about. The penalty in the France-Portugal game was entirely justified. Sure, Henry sold it a bit -- everyone does, be fair -- but the Portagee raised his leg and made contact, thus interrupting the forward progress of the Frenchman through the penalty box.

Thing is, I have no idea why the Portagee did anything at all. I'd rather have a pressed French attacker try a shot at that range in the heat of an attack than a collected and calm Zidane three-step a shot with preparation and deliberation. Portugal's keeper had been magnificent til then (and he even got a hand on Zidane's PK) -- I'd have let him have his save chance in-game rather than in-penalty.

What, and Italy deserves to be there, after diving Australia out of the Ro16?
...and after an invented red card!!!

ITALY! I hate France in every way, so go ITALY!
Let's see, what would you say if someone else had posted what you did...

"No country deserves to be hated! Why must you be so mean?"

See how obnoxiously saccharine that is?

I thought you hated the Australian team?

I thought he did too. :confused:

France will win the worldcup.

I thought you hated the Australian team?

Better cocky Australia than cheating Italy.

I see. Christiano Ronaldo's many dives don't count because Portugal didn't beat France I assume?
It wasn't just Mummy Boy, it was pretty much the entire Portuguese team. Maniche was guilty at least once; Postiga would have won the 'Most Blatant Dive' award for this World Cup if it hadn't been for Ronaldo's Triple Twist with Pike in the French box in the first half. Miguel seemed to trip over the ball during a one-two with Pauleta in the second half, which had the Portuguese players surrounding the ref demanding a yellow card for a French player...in fact, the only Portuguese player who didn't dive (I think) was Figo.

It wasn't just Mummy Boy, it was pretty much the entire Portuguese team. Maniche was guilty at least once; Postiga would have won the 'Most Blatant Dive' award for this World Cup if it hadn't been for Ronaldo's Triple Twist with Pike in the French box in the first half. Miguel seemed to trip over the ball during a one-two with Pauleta in the second half, which had the Portuguese players surrounding the ref demanding a yellow card for a French player...in fact, the only Portuguese player who didn't dive (I think) was Figo.

it's curious that everyone forgets that "mummy boy" had to be replaced due to injury against the dutch (which had more fouls that we did, and as many red cards)

you people see the things you want to see, in this case you have to call our team a bunch of cheaters because you can't stand that the tiny portugal sent home the english and the dutch

now its our turn to go, its life. But we don't cry about it

it's curious that everyone forgets that "mummy boy" had to be replaced due to injury against the dutch (which had more fouls that we did, and as many red cards)

you people see the things you want to see, in this case you have to call our team a bunch of cheaters because you can't stand that the tiny portugal sent home the english and the dutch

now its our turn to go, its life. But we don't cry about it
Bravo!

now its our turn to go, its life. But we don't cry about it
But they were diving quite a lot. I mean, even a fan would notice.

I just think it's pretty poor. I mean, Scolari is that sort of man...but surely, why would he want to put Portugese fans in a position where they are forced to defend players who'd rather score through a fake penalty or free kick than a decent playing move?

it's curious that everyone forgets that "mummy boy" had to be replaced due to injury against the dutch (which had more fouls that we did, and as many red cards)

you people see the things you want to see, in this case you have to call our team a bunch of cheaters because you can't stand that the tiny portugal sent home the english and the dutch

now its our turn to go, its life. But we don't cry about it
I haven't forgotten that. Just because a player gets injured in one match doesn't somehow let him off the hook if he dives in another game. I don't really care that Portugal knocked out England - yes, it meant that I wanted them to lose the semi-final, but between Portugal and France I'd want France to win anyway.

I never said that the Portuguese diving had any effect on any match, but that seems to be what you're trying to imply. It's not a case of 'seeing what I want to see' - I really don't like seeing diving. If I saw what I wanted to see, then every game at the World Cup would be perfectly refereed with some fantastic football. The Portuguese players dive. It's a simple, true statement.

Oh, and so what if the Dutch committed more fouls than you? Portugal managed to receive more yellow cards. Any statistic you care to throw up against me, I'll just give one back. Portugal deserved several yellows last night for diving - certainly Ronaldo and Postiga should have been booked - but they got none (for diving).

Too difficult to predict this one. Both teams are excellent. Both have very good defence, though Italy's is probably better. Italy is looking strong, and Buffon is a great goalkeeper, but I know better to bet against France after their last three games. I hope France wins it, of course, but it'll be close.

ALLEZ LES BLEUS!

France will win...or at least I hope so.
I don't think the game will be very interesting. The score will possibly be 1-0 no matter which team wins.
This Mundial in general didn't have much interest. IMO Most teams didn't play well.

2-2 after 90 minutes. 4-2 to Italy after extra-time.

Just watched the entire England vs Germany final 1966 on DVD - that was the scoreline with England winning scoring two goals in extra time.

Just watched the entire England vs Germany final 1966 on DVD - that was the scoreline with England winning scoring two goals in extra time.
Oh, yeah. I hadn't realised that. I think it could happen though. Italy certainly have the skill up front to break down the French defence (especially if Abidal plays at left back again), and the French have Henry and Zidane up front...

Oh, yeah. I hadn't realised that. I think it could happen though. Italy certainly have the skill up front to break down the French defence (especially if Abidal plays at left back again), and the French have Henry and Zidane up front...

Well, if they produce the 1966 final I'd be happy. No shirt pulling, diving, crying like babies, and good sportmanship. But it's Italy vs France, don't think so. Only one yellow card that game.

The World Cup 2006 finals are between Italy and France. What are your predictions for this game?

I truly hope it isn't going to be another nothing to nothing game that we've seen so frequently in the world cup. I hope for something like a 3-2 win... rather than one goal to end the game.

I don't know who to root for, though, I've been rooting for both these teams as they've come to the finals. I think I'll go with Italy.

As for my prediction, 2-1 win by Italy. A 60-minute-ish goal by France followed by two late Italy goals.

NOTE: Since both of these teams are excellent, and I really hate poll clutter, the "3+" option has been eliminated.



France wins 3 to 1

I just think it's pretty poor. I mean, Scolari is that sort of man...but surely, why would he want to put Portugese fans in a position where they are forced to defend players who'd rather score through a fake penalty or free kick than a decent playing move?

Actually, we scored two penalties in regular time, one against Iran and other against Mexico. And that one against mexico was when one of their defences handballed.

I don't think we even scored on a free kick..

So basically, I don't have to defend our players, except from wrongful accusations.

So basically, I don't have to defend our players, except from wrongful accusations.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPVOBrbqQXo&search=portugal%20diving

Italy winning the World Cup?

I DON'T THINK SO! :eek:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPVOBrbqQXo&search=portugal%20diving

If you take one event as signifying, then i expect you to lambast the italians, has they had a false penalty against Australia. Or you will attack thierry henry for is "drop" against spain that resulted in the pass for the second goal (if my memory serves me right). Those were two events that resulted in goals - of course, the sour losing englishmen don't make shocked videos about teams they didn't faced, so i'll just hope you saw those two games.

If you take one event as signifying, then i expect you to lambast the italians, has they had a false penalty against Australia.
Oh, I lambasted them, yes. However, to be fair, not only did Neill make a mistake there, but Australia didn't look like they had much of a chance of winning the match anyways.
It was unfortunate how they ended up scoring, but the goal was just as deserved as Grosso's was against Germany.

Those were two events that resulted in goals...
Hey, you know I can't stand the English team. I think the English should be ripping apart Rooney, not C. Ronaldo. But don't listen to the commentary - don't the pictures say plenty enough?
I know how horrible I feel whenever a German player dives, because I just can't condone it, no matter who does it.

But my point is not whether or not the ref spots that it was a dive. My point is that the Portugese are pushing it too far. They're diving all the time, they're trying to decide matches that way. And since Brazil did the same thing in 2002, I think it's Scolari who teaches them that that's where the higher percentages are.

If you take one event as signifying, then i expect you to lambast the italians, has they had a false penalty against Australia. Or you will attack thierry henry for is "drop" against spain that resulted in the pass for the second goal (if my memory serves me right). Those were two events that resulted in goals - of course, the sour losing englishmen don't make shocked videos about teams they didn't faced, so i'll just hope you saw those two games.

Quite frankly, this World Cup has been a little wimpy in the aspect of fake fouls and uncalled shots and pks and whatever - it's part of the game. It gnaws your head to the grinder, but it's part of the game. Otherwise, I'd have my rant about how the Swiss "cheated" their way into the elimination rounds.

I really hope that Italy wins, since the majority of the French will probably become just unbearable when their team wins the cup. :headbang:

I might just be supporting the French team if it wasn't for the fact they're the FRENCH team. Once France's supporters (and the French in general) will be a bit more modest, I might support them. :p


FYI: I'm Belgian... "arrête les histoires belges, mes amis français" and maybe :fluffle: :D :p

I think Italy will win.

Italy winning the World Cup?

I DON'T THINK SO! :eek:
Yeah, I mean, they've only managed it three time in the past. Only Brazil have won more.

Okay, I've pondered a bit more and now have decided that while I want France to win, Italy will win by 1.

Meh, I'll feel really sad for Zidane :(, but I'm okay with Italy winning, too.

<chopped>

but I'm okay with Italy winning, too.

Not me .. <dives>

Not me .. <dives>
That dive so gets you a yellow.

Oh, your second one already? Too bad. Off you go. Buh-bye. *waves*

That dive so gets you a yellow.

Oh, your second one already? Too bad. Off you go. Buh-bye. *waves*

"I'm Ronaldo, you can't yellow-card me for diving"

"I'm Ronaldo, you can't yellow-card me for diving"
That's it. Instant red for arguing. You're off.

http://mb-s1.upb.de/mb-it/!Rote%20Karte/intro.png

That's it. Instant red for arguing. You're off.

http://mb-s1.upb.de/mb-it/!Rote%20Karte/intro.png

<The usual theatrics> and storms off

...

Noticed not many cards for diving during the finals unlike the group stage?

<The usual theatrics> and storms off Hehehe. :p

Noticed not many cards for diving during the finals unlike the group stage? Yeah, and I found it quite frustrating. Last night on TV they said that FIFA apparently had it made one of their big goals to really crack down on diving this time, hence the strict rules (I had kinda thought the rules just had been tightened all around) - and then you really have to ask yourself how players have been getting away with it time after time.

I mean, at least in the last few games the referees were *very* good in spotting mere diving and just rolling their eyes (I assume :p) and letting the game go on, but I totally agree that a couple well-placed yellow cards would have made them shape up. Especially Portugal's Ronaldo, but also others, very much including our own private little dive master Ballack. :rolleyes:

Yeah, and I found it quite frustrating. Last night on TV they said that FIFA apparently had it made one of their big goals to really crack down on diving this time, hence the strict rules (I had kinda thought the rules just had been tightened all around) - and then you really have to ask yourself how players have been getting away with it time after time.

I mean, at least in the last few games the referees were *very* good in spotting mere diving and just rolling their eyes (I assume :p) and letting the game go on, but I totally agree that a couple well-placed yellow cards would have made them shape up. Especially Portugal's Ronaldo, but also others, very much including our own private little dive master Ballack. :rolleyes:

When it come down to the 90 minute mark and scores are even, that's going to be testing for the ref. Frenchman and Italians are going to trying to find the perfect time to "act".

I personally don't mind 0-0 games. I like defense and if the defense is good then the game will be fine. 0-0 games with terrible play is never something to look forward to or enjoy but with fine play a 0-0 game can be quite exciting.

Italia, of course! :D

Closed Already? That's not fair. :gundge:

Hopefully France.

Closed Already? That's not fair. :gundge:

Hopefully France.

My apologies. From the moment I started this poll, I calculated how much time it would be to kickoff in amount of days (because that was the only unit asked for). I got 3.875, so I put in 3.87. Unfortunately, the poll-maker rounded it down to 3 days, so it closed almost a day early from kickoff (putting in 4 wasn't an option either, because it would be right after it's done).

La France. :)

France!

We all know that at 120', Grosso is going to run himself into the advertising and get a penalty, 1-0 to Italy.

I'll say France 1-0. We need the bleus to be persuaded they can't lose. Then, who knows?

Aux armes, citoyens!
Formez vos bataillons!
Marchons, marchons!
Qu'un sang impur
Abreuve nos sillons!

I think I want France to win.

Me and Peisandros are neck and neck.:eek:

Lets get this straight Henry hurt his head diving...:p
That was not a foul!

Italy winning the World Cup?

I DON'T THINK SO! :eek:

It seems you're wrong.