AudioCircle
Community => Non-audio hobbies and interests => Spectator Sports => Topic started by: JerryM on 19 Jun 2014, 04:14 am
-
My pick for the Cup is Argentina. :thumb:
There's some big games coming... :D
-
Was wondering when this thread was going to happen! :lol:
The US-Ghana game was a fun one to watch.
-
Double dethroning for Spain yesterday. Pathetic playing. The Chileans looks truly like warriors instead of all the pretty boy looks and hardly no run from part of Spianish team. Pa casa former Champs1 Chile, Mexico and even Costa Rica, all looked good.
-
I'm having a great time getting caught up in the excitement of the games. Watching Spain take their thumpings was a real treat. I'm a Netherlands fan, and even though prima donna millionaires they may be, they can run an exciting game. Go Orange. Hup, Holland, Hup!
-
The Portugal/US game should be revealing --- is Portugal that bad or is Germany that dominant? We'll get our answer Sunday.
Spain could not have fallen any further - zero goals in two straight losses. Utter collapse. I noticed most of the names on their team were familiar to me from 4 years ago. They must be getting old.
There are a lot of plucky teams this time around. There are sure to be some surprises advancing to the next round.
-
Today's Colombia / Ivory Coast game was great fun to watch - two teams that clearly wanted to win. Don't know if Colombia has what it takes to go the distance, but will be fun to watch. The way Netherlands slaughtered Spain makes me think they'll be in the finals, even if Spain's collapse was partly there's to blame. My underdog favorite is Uruguay, but today's game showed they are lost without there superstar Suarez. And, as usual, they play dirty and often loose at their own hand because of expulsions.
-
My pick for surprisingly strong teams, Chile. México and even Costa Rica. They all have earned their mettle so far.
-
Hi Kenneth,
The Australians really took it to the Netherlands team and only lost 3-2 to them. Not bad for a team that is ranked as our 3rd most popular football sport as Australian Rules Football and Rugby League have higher participations rates and take most of the talent. The English league has been a great way for our players to gain experience and improve our skill levels over the years.
Cheers Rod
-
Spain got chewed up in the machine.
They've played so many games. A lot of euros have been made on this team. They're beat up, plain and simple.
-
Michael Bradley's lazy passing cost the US a guaranteed place in the 16. Plus he was too damn lazy to make a goal that was handed to him. We are not on speaking terms at this point.
-
I think the excessive overtime cost us the game - first 4 minutes, then an extra minute, as if to favor Portugal. Bunch of BS if you ask me.
-
There were what? --- 15 seconds left when Bradley got possession. He could have kicked it into the stands and burned up enough time to make it a win. Instead he does a half-assed lazy pass that is intercepted by a Portuguese player. His team thought they had it won and lapsed on defense thinking he was still playing for their side. Apparently not. Landon Donovan would not have done that.
-
Macro! +100000000000
The US team gave away that game. What a crushing lapse.
-
Spain got chewed up in the machine.
They've played so many games. A lot of euros have been made on this team. They're beat up, plain and simple.
I think they should rent a large plane, take the Spanish, the Korean and the Aussie teams and send them back. Jajajajaj. Make sure all travel in economy, as the Italians did when they were coming to Brazil.
-
Michael Bradley's lazy passing cost the US a guaranteed place in the 16. Plus he was too damn lazy to make a goal that was handed to him. We are not on speaking terms at this point.
I'm glad I'm not alone in this. Bradley almost cost the U.S. the game against Ghana and DID cost them the full 3 points yesterday. I don't know why people are so high on him. He's slow, small, almost never actually runs, and continually makes lazy passes, usually to the wrong team. He drives me nuts and I had this sinking feeling he was going to be responsible for the team's heartache. He was. :(
Please get him out of the starting lineup. He really seems disinterested.
-
I think they should rent a large plane, take the Spanish, the Korean and the Aussie teams and send them back. Jajajajaj. Make sure all travel in economy, as the Italians did when they were coming to Brazil.
The above entry requires explanation. What the hell are you talking about? All three teams you cited have been eliminated. Who cares if they go anywhere? They are out of the tournament along with England and a few other teams. More will be eliminated today. Of the 32 teams that started the World Cup, 16 will be eliminated from the first round. Would it bother you if they stayed around to watch the outcome and enjoy the party atmosphere? After all, just getting into the World Cup tournament is a significant lifetime achievement. Let them cherish their moment.
-
I'm glad I'm not alone in this. Bradley almost cost the U.S. the game against Ghana and DID cost them the full 3 points yesterday. I don't know why people are so high on him. He's slow, small, almost never actually runs, and continually makes lazy passes, usually to the wrong team. He drives me nuts and I had this sinking feeling he was going to be responsible for the team's heartache. He was. :(
Please get him out of the starting lineup. He really seems disinterested.
Zero chance of that. :) He's not having his best tournament, but for the past few years he's been the most solid midfielder the U.S. have. It's not like they have a Pirlo (or similar) waiting on the bench to replace him. :)
As usual with the U.S. team, the defense is spotty and looks capable of breaking down at the wrong moment. However, many other teams have looked this way as well. :)
I suspect they're going to get a good drubbing by the German team, but we'll see. :)
Dave.
-
Zero chance of that. :) He's not having his best tournament, but for the past few years he's been the most solid midfielder the U.S. have. It's not like they have a Pirlo (or similar) waiting on the bench to replace him. :)
As usual with the U.S. team, the defense is spotty and looks capable of breaking down at the wrong moment. However, many other teams have looked this way as well. :)
I suspect they're going to get a good drubbing by the German team, but we'll see. :)
Dave.
I agree, Germany will be a really tough nut to crack. I also agree with you regarding the team's midfield talent. But I find it hard to believe that anyone...any defense player in particular...can play as poorly as Bradley. Heck...even a winger like Wondo would have been better. He simply does nothing for the team...and in a quite central way. On the contrary, he has cost his team 2 goals at a minimum in the WC. Yesterday, all he had to do was kick the damn ball into Portugal's side of the field and the 25 seconds expire. Nope...he sends it backward, toward his own goal, and directly to that funky #7 for Portugal. But his demeanor the entire game was, as I said, at best disinterested.
Can you tell I'm still upset? :lol:
-
Can you tell I'm still upset? :lol:
Yes, I can sense a very slight bit of irritation in your tone. :)
But you're not alone......many pundits coming down hard on MB today.
Jones has looked good though. I don't know what the answer is.....if there is one. Maybe they could consider Diskerud or Zusi into the MB role, but I just don't think options like that will be given any consideration. They're going to live or die with Bradley. :)
Dave.
-
I watched soccer for the first time last night, the last 15 min of the game. It was hilarious! Guys flopping all over the grass, writhing in pain, about every 2 minutes. I had no idea it was such a ridiculous sport.
-
Soccer ignorance is always entertaining for those of us who play(ed) and are fans.
I think a ridiculous sport is an NFL game where a bunch of huge guys actually play for only about twenty minutes total time interspersed in a four hour commercial advertising blitz. :) I haven't been able to sit through a Superbowl game in years. :)
To each his own I guess.
Dave.
-
I don't think it has anything to do with ignorance. I don't think it takes any in-depth knowledge of soccer to determine what's happening there. Are you saying all the faking of injuries is a great part of your sport? I didn't criticize any other part of the game, only the flopping and carrying on. That's embarrassing for pro athletes making millions of dollars to do.
I don't watch football (NFL) either.
-
The flopping is rediculous and defending it is even more rediculous.
It seems that there are no "tough guys" on some teams. Just a bunch of actors. Man up.
-
........is an NFL game where a bunch of huge guys actually play for only about twenty minutes total time interspersed in a four hour commercial advertising blitz. :) I haven't been able to sit through a Superbowl game in years. :)
True, but I see a lot of soccer players staying in their areas waiting for the ball to come near them. That's hardly going full out 100% of the time.
The flopping is disgraceful. It's starting to look like the NBA, to say nothing of NFL players suddenly going down after a play without being touched.
-
Gents,
I didn't say I was defending flopping, did I? :) If they wan't to embarrass themselves, they certainly can, can't they? :)
I can't disagree that some of the flopping is ridiculous, but you didn't call it ridiculous flopping, you called it a "ridiculous sport." I disagree with that.
I think flopping is not unlike fighting in hockey. It's unnecessary and a distraction, but I don't think it diminishes the rest of what's actually a terrific game/competition.
Anyways, the flopping has been going on for years. It only amounts to a couple of minutes total each game and the referee never buys the acting anyways. It's not unusual to see a referee yellow card a player for doing it. I find it rather amusing.....and it's rather innocuous and never affects the outcome of a match. I hope you're not saying you can't take the WHOLE sport seriously BECAUSE of the flopping. That would be disappointing.
Regarding players staying in their areas. This is not like youth leagues were all the kids swarm the ball wherever it goes. :) Although that's damn fun to watch, you can't play that way when the game and competition become more mature.
Cheers,
Dave.
-
The higher the stakes, the higher the chicanery level. With the kind of money to be had in pro sports, and the insane amounts wagered thereon, you can expect cheating to take many forms and to be executed at a very high level. Flopping in soccer and other sports that we are forbidden to discuss is but one way to pursue a competitive advantage. I'm surprised to hear nothing of doping in the World Cup. Am I to assume these guys would never do such a thing?
-
I can't disagree that some of the flopping is ridiculous, but you didn't call it ridiculous flopping, you called it a "ridiculous sport." I disagree with that.
I think flopping is not unlike fighting in hockey.
I hope you're not saying you can't take the WHOLE sport seriously BECAUSE of the flopping. That would be disappointing.
I do find it a ridiculous sport due to all the flopping. I don't care to watch grown men making millions upon millions of dollars acting like crybabies.
Did you really just compare flopping to fighting? :green:
I'll never watch another game of that sport again, but that's just me. Obviously the world as a whole loves flopping.
-
I watched soccer for the first time last night, the last 15 min of the game. It was hilarious! Guys flopping all over the grass, writhing in pain, about every 2 minutes. I had no idea it was such a ridiculous sport.
Well...speaking for Oregon Duck football fans everywhere who have to endure it from opponents, I can tell you that there is plenty of flopping in NCAA football as well. See one here ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEr6tHeuKnA
It's a perfect display of bad sportsmanship (not to mention penalty worthy in both sports).
-
I like soccer, especially the WC, but did they learn "flopping" from WWE? :duh: :banghead:
-
I think the comparison stands if you consider it is really a comment on the cultural prevalence of certain behavior, seemingly ingrained in a certain sport.
I grew up playing hockey, and met a lot of idiots that felt that was a GREAT part of hockey. I do watch a lot of hockey, and will admit there are times when a fight is additive to the game, but not all are.
I think that diving in soccer is similar in that it is prevalent in the game, and seems accepted by fans.
I have seen little soccer in my adult life, but never fail to see humor in the theatrics. My brothers and I always mocked the "magic spray" and I had to explain it to my daughters this year.
I said it is magic spray that makes your fake injury go away!
I have watched parts of a lot of games this World Cup, and have seen lots of diving. I have also seen some really excellent goals.
-
If go to an NHL game or watch one on TV, what happens when a fight breaks out? The crowd goes wild. The fans love the fighting aspect of hockey. I don't watch soccer, but I have a feeling when someone flops the fans don't love it and don't cheer for it. Fans don't get all pumped up hoping the game has some great flops.
Fighting today in the NHL is few and far between. Rarely is there a toe to toe fight since the NHL started their effort to make the sport more family friendly. In the WC, I was seeing flops every minute or two!!! If there was a crybaby once a game it would be fine, but in the 15 min I saw it was non-stop flopping. I think one guy was even put on a stretcher but then hopped off it once he knew it wasn't going to buy him anything. It's pathetic.
-
Didn't know biting was part of soccer -
http://espn.go.com/?topId=11127197
Flopping is a little less now because they can get red card for it....usually if it happens in the box only though.
-
Soooo - the US has backed into the Round of 16 or Sudden Death Round as it is also known. Apparently they will be playing Belgium on July 1st. I heard somewhere that Belgium was a team the Germans wanted to avoid. They may change their minds after a good dose of Algeria though.
About half of the European stalwarts have been eliminated in the Group Stage. What do you see as the likelihood that Belgium will be eliminated too? Can the US win that game?
-
Have not followed the Belgium games, but can't keep hoping / expecting that they would be a less fierce rival than Germany. USA really had to fight that onslaught all game and did admirably to keep it to just 1 goal against.
-
Didn't know biting was part of soccer -
http://espn.go.com/?topId=11127197
Flopping is a little less now because they can get red card for it....usually if it happens in the box only though.
And now suspended for 4 games + 100K franc fine. Didn't realize he was a serial biter - to the extent that some have nicknamed him "dracula" and photoshopped him accordingly. This is sad news for my underdog favorite Uruguay and practically guarantees a loss in the upcoming Colombia quarterfinals match. This team is really their own worse enemy.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-06-26/suarez-gets-nine-game-ban-by-fifa-for-bite-in-world-cup-game.html
-
Suarez I think got 9 games (international games) and 4 months.... but his sponsors are cutting ties, so he is getting some of what he deserves (he is a scumbag IMO).
-
A Suarez-Tyson match could be fun. :lol:
And now the games start. :D
-
About half of the European stalwarts have been eliminated in the Group Stage. What do you see as the likelihood that Belgium will be eliminated too? Can the US win that game?
unfortunately the chances of the US beating Belgium are slim unless a miracle-on-ice kind of thing takes place again!
-
Here's the Sports Illustrated view of who's who in the Knockout Round. The US prospects are grim indeed. If somehow we slip past Belgium, Argentina will be our next opponent.
http://www.si.com/soccer/planet-futbol/2014/06/27/world-cup-power-rankings-knockout-stage-brazil
-
OK -- Just watched the Netherlands/Mexico game. The World Cup is definitely rigged. Arjen Robben can get a penalty kick inside the box anytime in any game with his acting skills. My fantasy about this being a high level of competition has been thoroughly disabused. No point in watching any further.
-
Robben was clearly play acting there. From the slo-mo, we can see the mexican defender's foot *just* clip Robben a *wee* bit. But Robben went down like a heap of sack attracting the penalty. Clearly overly harsh. Mexico should've been through this round.
-
Re: Ned/Mex game: Penalty kick.
Opinions will vary, but even ESPN's fairly biased announcers eventually agreed that there was definite contact and the call was correct.
ADDED - Oh, and w/o the penalty kick, it was still 1-1 headed for extra time - anybody's game
-
One would think given the Ref's placement he got a good look at it and at the end of injury time you typically really have to have a quite obvious infraction to get awarded a penalty kick. I think it should have gone to extra time but the boys in Orange had a better second half and might have still pulled it off given their momentum. I think Mexico fielded a strong team and would have liked to see them advance.
-
I would've liked to see Mexico advance also.
But, I agree with others that the ref made the correct call regardless of the extra flopping. The player was just ensuring he got the call, by making it super obvious.
It's unfortunate that such a critical play/call happened with so little time left in regulation, but that's the nature of the sport (and many other sports).
-
Also didn't like to see Holland win by a penalty kick, but they were more fit as the end progressed, more opportunities on goal, and ultimately even without the penalty kick I think they would have come ahead in what was left of over time or in the sudden death round. Still a very impressive effort by Mexico. Going into the World Cup I wouldn't have expected them to get this far - they have been underwhelming for many prior World Cups.
US VS Belgium : have not watched any of the Belgium games, so don't know how strong they are. Here's still hoping that if they can come so close w/ Germany that they have what it takes to pull out a win vs Belgium. Argentina : if it wasn't for Messi, they could very likely been out. Sorta of tired of "one hero" teams like Argentina / Portugal, and possibly even Brazil. Brazil BARELY squeezed by. I could see Colombia closing the door on their lucky streak at the next game.
-
As one announcer pointed out, Robben was already on the way down when contact was made. Given the circumstances, it was a ridiculous giveaway.
And as for speculating about who will win ensuing games, don't bother to guess. Only Sepp Blatter and his well trained officials know that answer.
-
As one announcer pointed out, Robben was already on the way down when contact was made. Given the circumstances, it was a ridiculous giveaway.
And as for speculating about who will win ensuing games, don't bother to guess. Only Sepp Blatter and his well trained officials know that answer.
I'm not certain he was on his way down. He was making a quick move forward (trying to steer his body back in-bounds) and his body was in a natural forward position. Hard to say. I'd have to watch the replay more than I really care too. What I think we all can agree on was regardless of whether Robben was going down or not, there was definitely leg contact and the Mexico player's leg was in the path of Robben's trajectory. I still have to agree with the ref's judgement call here. It's not like it was an obvious "fake flop" where virtually zero contact was made......as we've all witnessed countless times, where you'd think the player has a career ending injury to his knee after the opposing player crop dusted nearby. :lol:
-
Interesting side story about the WC.
http://blog.flickr.net/en/2014/06/27/pakistans-key-role-in-the-world-cup/
-
Belgium is taking it to the US, two scoring chances already early in the game.
How the US got this far in the tournament. :dunno:
-
watching this at the office .... Belgium is all over the US. Completely outplaying them.
-
Outstanding goalkeeping !!! :thumb:
Go us
-
Outstanding goalkeeping !!! :thumb:
Go us
Damn straight - Howard deserves a medal!
Way to blow that goal opportunity in the last minute. Hope USA comes back rested enough to make a real attempt at attacking / winning.
-
It'd have been a miracle had US scored that goal in the last minute. 2 strikers, no defenders and just a goalie to beat.
-
USA is going home!
Thanks for showing up in the last 10 minutes of overtime. :thumb:
-
First, I'll admit that I only watch soccer every four years, during the World Cup. It's kind of fun but this US team (with the exception of the goalie Howard) totally sucked. They made it to the quarters but only won one game in the tournament against a fourth world country, Ghana. Today's game sucked and I hope the American players and their useless coach stay in Brazil. Maybe they can go live in a Favella or whatever they call those miserable, crime ridden slums that surround the cities. Don't come home! :thumb:
-
US played in an uphill battle against 4 of the best teams in the entire tournament and was not embarrassed by any of them. The fact that they were able to resist the onslaught of offense by the best team I have seen so far for a full 90+ minutes, says a lot about their courage and stamina. As you so eloquently indicated, they were very inferior in terms of skill. They had to do this without their best defender, Kyle Breckerman and one of their two strikers, Jozy Altidore. Nonetheless, they played their hearts out and acquitted themselves nicely.
What did you do this month? Why are you heaping on the hate? Surely you can understand that they wanted this win much more than you did. These guys are heroes in my eyes.
-
Booo Jackman, :o
The US showed a ton of heart throughout the game. Yeah they were out classed by a better team with more talent, but they played their hearts out in OT., and nearly tied it a few times.
I have to agree that this was a success for the US team big time. They also played very well against Germany and Portugal.
Don't hate, be proud , I am!
Also Jackman, your Favela comment was ignorant and insensitive !
-
US played in an uphill battle against 4 of the best teams in the entire tournament and was not embarrassed by any of them. The fact that they were able to resist the onslaught of offense by the best team I have seen so far for a full 90+ minutes, says a lot about their courage and stamina. As you so eloquently indicated, they were very inferior in terms of skill. They had to do this without their best defender, Kyle Breckerman and one of their two strikers, Jozy Altidore. Nonetheless, they played their hearts out and acquitted themselves nicely.
What did you do this month? Why are you heaping on the hate? Surely you can understand that they wanted this win much more than you did. These guys are heroes in my eyes.
Very well stated. I'm proud of our Team.
-
I do not know if the US team was outclassed or not by the Belgian team but one thing that I do notice is the amount of goals that the Howard, the goalkeeper kept at bay. An NPR comment said that he stopped 30 shots to the arch, meaning, 2 out of 30, excellent stats. I just do not think that the Belgians were all that strong and so far what I have noticed about most of the teams that advanced, they were not incredibly better, simply that they were able to complete a couple of passes in the time that was given to them and the teams that lost, simply they were unable to score at the same rate.
The best game I have seen all along was the Algeria vs Germany.....The Algerians really proved their tenacity continuously countering the air superiority that the Germans are known for.
The US as an overall team, they were fine but to no standards a cut about the Belgian team. And no, the US team and the coach should not stay in a favela. :thumb:
-
First, I'll admit that I only watch soccer every four years, during the World Cup. It's kind of fun but this US team (with the exception of the goalie Howard) totally sucked. They made it to the quarters but only won one game in the tournament against a fourth world country, Ghana. Today's game sucked and I hope the American players and their useless coach stay in Brazil. Maybe they can go live in a Favella or whatever they call those miserable, crime ridden slums that surround the cities. Don't come home! :thumb:
WOW!
What a horrible take on things.
-
I think Lionel Messi is the best soccer player in the world. Not only that, but he's a humble player to boot.
I think it's Argentina's to lose..
-
It's a mixed bag to me. The US Team was clearly shown up today. If not for the Performance of Howard in Goal, it could have been ugly.
On the other hand, we survived the "Group of Death" which I did not think was going to happen. Doing it w/o Jozy was borderline miraculous.
Kudos to the USA Team :thumb: and hope that this result further "grows the Game" here. I'm not a huge Soccer fan, but I do get into the World Cup and some of the major games of the European Leagues.
-
Regarding the USA Team...
Before the Games started, would you have bet that the US would make it farther than Spain?
They did. That's the kind of thing that matters. Congrats USA! :beer:
-
That's right, Jerry. Before play commenced and the speculation about the Groups was raging, all of what I read had the US in the toughest Group of all --- the so called Group of Death. But for a lapse in the final seconds of play against Portugal, they would have won first place in that Group handily.
Not only did they outlast Spain but Italy, England and Portugal as well. We are definitely a threatening presence these days.
-
How is the Favella comment rude and insensitive? The word literally means slum. Favellas are violent slums ruled by drug lords. Is there a nicer more "sensitive" or more PC description?
Anyway, I was just pissed at the US team's performance. Thank God they had a great goalie or this tournament would have been ugly. As ugly as a Favella in rainy season.
Also, the US won ONE measly game...against Ghana, by one goal. Big deal. Any good team would have beat them. They had a lucky run and soccer is still a fourth or fifth tier sport in the USA. Maybe we should have a ping pong thread or celebrate our badminton success next.
Cheers
Jack
-
Keep digging ..........
-
Keep digging ..........
Which good team did the US beat? They got some great goaltending and played some good teams close, but still lost. They couldn't even beat a depleted Argentina team when they had the lead. Are we supposed to pretend they won?
-
The offensive side has seemed to be a historical weakness of the USA national team for decades. If / when there is a striker of world quality a la Messi / Neymeyer / even Suarez, then the US team will be a real contender. They didn't seem to understand w/ this match and too many other world matches that you can't win by holding back & defending. I hope though they don't resort to the coward strategy of Italy / Greece etc of always defending and doing nothing, then try to win at the last minute w/ the counter attack.
-
Which good team did the US beat? They got some great goaltending and played some good teams close, but still lost. They couldn't even beat a depleted Argentina team when they had the lead. Are we supposed to pretend they won?
Jeez, Jack, try to keep your eye on the ball...
No, we are not supposed to pretend they won. We might, however, recognize that they made it farther, or just as far, as many of the best teams in the world.
Also, please check your typo. USA did not play Argentina.
Clearly, our mileage varies. But there are whole countries having big parties just because their team made it into tne Tournament. Try enjoying. :thumb:
-
Sorry Jerry, I meant Portugal. They tied A depleted Portugal team. It was too frustrating watching a team with no offense waste such heroic goaltending. Anyway, I wish I had everyone's positive attitude.
Go Colunbia
-
Because of work commitments, I was able to watch a bit of the first half and some of the second half.
What I noticed was that the Belgians were faster, quicker with more energy - being a young team - but just weren't working well together when it often counted due to inexperience and that the US worked a little better as a team with more experience which kept them in it.
But it was clear that they had much more talent than the Americans. The US is and probably will be a good team for a long time but they're not anywhere near being at the top.
-
I'm very happy to see the support and interest US soccer team has gotten from this world cup. If this continues US soccer has a bright future.
-
I hope though they don't resort to the coward strategy of Italy / Greece etc of always defending and doing nothing, then try to win at the last minute w/ the counter attack.
They almost succeeded yesterday though! :icon_twisted:
Oh the amount of curses i heard yesterday at that moment :o :o :lol: :lol:
-
I think part of the problem was coaching and not taking bradley out in any of the games. He made so many small errors and the biggest in the portugal game :scratch: I would have taken him out just to test someone else's skills.
-
I, too, am glad to see the excitement about American soccer. I hope it spurs more participation in the sport.
The problems with the current U.S. WC team? ... As I see it, and in order...
* The 4-5-1 strategy has, is, and always will offer few chances at goal AND make the other team appear to have superior personnel. It's a goofy attack (?) that limits plays.
* The coach made some bad and belated decisions regarding personnel and ... well ... strategy.
* THE key player in the 4-5-1 alignment, Michael Bradley REALLY wasn't into the games. He was very disinterested and his lazy passing cost the team.
* Injuries to key personnel.
The team will do better next campaign and should have younger, more talented players...except maybe in goal.
-
I was disappointed in Bradley's overall play but we don't have another player like him to sub in.
Not to make excuses but here goes anyway. When Portugal got the late tie, the US had to go all out vs. Germany in the Jungle. Belgium rested a lot of their players and played in pleasant weather in their 3rd game. US had a ridiculous travel schedule compared to all the other teams in the tournament and with the short turnaround, that took it's toll on their fitness. The US always play with less possession than their quality opponents. They don't have the same ball skills as the rest of the world does where all their best athletes have had a ball attached to their foot since birth and development teams that emphasize skill over winning. Belgium brought on Lukaku who's a beast. We brought on Wondo. What if we had an athlete like Lebron to bring on as a striker? Don't know if we'll ever have that luxury as long as other sports pick off our best athletes
I watched both games yesterday and Argentina/Swiss game was a bore until the last 5 minutes. 3 players in that game were worth watching (Messi, DiMaria and Shakiri). The US played 4 games that were exciting, action packed, tension filled battles that were nail biters to the last minute. Would have been nice to have kept going but we couldn't have asked for more from our boys. Plus we have the best chant in the world.
-
Here's a good read on Bradley and the team's performance in general.
http://lastwordonsports.com/2014/07/02/failed-experiment-michael-bradley-attacking-midfielder/
-
The US always play with less possession than their quality opponents. They don't have the same ball skills as the rest of the world does where all their best athletes have had a ball attached to their foot since birth and development teams that emphasize skill over winning. Belgium brought on Lukaku who's a beast. We brought on Wondo. What if we had an athlete like Lebron to bring on as a striker? Don't know if we'll ever have that luxury as long as other sports pick off our best athletes
You hit the nail on the head. With less skilled players and overall lower level of competition (compared to other countries) the US will also have a limited strategic repertoire exposed in the WC. I think this will improve with time, especially as the dangers of American football scares parents and kids away. That America showed such great support during this WC is just another arrow pointing in this direction.
-
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/76133000/jpg/_76133452_023076126-1.jpg)
BAM! 7-1
Take that Brazil...next up Messi & Co. History in the making, first time two European teams in the finals in the Americas. :thumb:
-
What a national disaster & disgrace - and as host no less. I can't imagine what's going on in Brazil now.
I'd have to concur that it's likely to be Holland & Germany in the final : with Germany being the victor. Folks will get the Brazil - Argentina game they wanted though : just that it will be for 3rd place.
-
Yes, that was an ass-beating. In Americsn football, that score would be 70-10.
The game tomorrow is much bigger now. The pressure is on.
I hope the officiating stays neutral and even.
-
Jerry - I think it would be 49-7.
As an aside, I heard an announcer remark several times that the trouncing this afternoon is the first time Brazil has been beaten at home in a competitive game since 1975.
And I'm not so sure about the Netherlands beating Argentina.
-
Jerry - I think it would be 49-7.
Yep, a definite ass-beating. (http://www.maanclan.com/images/smilies/smiley_-_spanked.gif)
And I'm not so sure about the Netherlands beating Argentina.
You and me both. :beer:
-
Nothing would make me happier than to see Argentina beat Netherlands - I'm just concerned that they are a one man show w/ Messi. Hopefully I will be proven wrong.
-
my guess is that argentina is gonna play catenaccioo against the dutch and germans and take both games 1:0 or by PK, but on the other hand I'd love to see Holland beating Germany in the final for the FIRST TIME!
this world cup is the most exciting and unpredictable since I remember (1982) :thumb:
-
I wish I could have been at today's game. Sheer emotion.
Both teams were playing *not to lose*. (In American football, that's the equivalent of the Prevent Defense.)
Then, Messi looked tired and Robben lit up like he had a Columbian friend. At 99 minutes.
The PK's were nail-biting.
Here's to the Dutch - :beer:
One game left... 8)
-
I can understand the flopping in soccer but when I saw the previous Dutch game, I was taken aback. I'm glad Floppin' Robben is gone.
Why the refs give him the benefit of the doubt is just beyond me. (I wasn't able to watch the game today.)
-
I share your disdain for Robben and the Dutch. Good riddance.
-
Nothing would make me happier than to see Argentina beat Netherlands - I'm just concerned that they are a one man show w/ Messi. Hopefully I will be proven wrong.
I was proven wrong (big surprise). A Brazil - Argentina game would have been interesting, but on the other hand a Germany - Holland final game less so. So we got what we got.
It has been a world cup of a lot of big surprises, and at least through the quarter finals a lot of interesting games with plenty of goals. In that respect it's been a pretty good World Cup.
-
When the group stages ended someone published a projection for the Knockout Round in the form of Power Rankings. I included a link to it somewhere earlier in this thread. Here is the part I recall.
1- Argentina
2- Germany
3- Netherlands
4- Brazil
Not everyone was surprised.
-
What a national disaster & disgrace - and as host no less. I can't imagine what's going on in Brazil now.
I'd have to concur that it's likely to be Holland & Germany in the final : with Germany being the victor. Folks will get the Brazil - Argentina game they wanted though : just that it will be for 3rd place.
Pride, arrogance and pride and more pride.
They have the best salaries, fame, the best houses, the best cars and even the best woman, so came pride and fall is inevitable.
A failed model of sport based on the export of superstars to made profit.
They dont have rapport, they are incompetent collectively as a team.
The german players are masters(aged) that plays together since 2006 at the Bayer Munchen the brazilian players play in Europe all the year.
As usually the herd will guilty the Gov for a soccer cup loss, so maybe we get rid of this comunist gay gov we are enduring since 2003.
-
Yeah, but for all the emotion of the Brazilian fans, it was a very classy act to applaud the game at the end.
And what's wrong with having the best women? :drool:
-
I see nothing wrong with having the best women. In fact, I have one.
FULLRANGEMAN - That was a nasty rant. Are you just a disappointed Brazilian or is there something deeper and broader behind it? Given the racist rants and cold condemnation prevalent in some of your posting, it would appear the latter might be the case. Do you really have a "communist gay governor"?
-
Much worse than it, I can PM you to Kafkaesque absurd real facts happen since 2003.
But take a look at this one:
A Fed gov campaing from 2013, someone instituted 02June international day of prostitutes and they had the brilhiant idea of promoted this people.
http://www.canalgama.com.br/noticias/campanha-do-governo-federal-diz-sou-feliz-sendo-prostituta
(http://www.canalgama.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Cartaz-de-prostituta.png)
http://leitura-obrigatoria.blogspot.com.br/2013/06/campanha-do-governo-federal-diz-sou.html
(http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQrgYNIIqsJGLDSQEeQI0g6CT9GPa0VoFq2p8kIXJ1ezPOVBSPTzQ)
Its a absurd what this gov are mading with our teens and young woman.
For more detail google for Sou feliz sendo prostituta (Iam happy being a prostitute) and use translator for english.
All this are in the news site, Iam not imaging.
-
I've seen better looking "working women" in the Bronx.
Doc
-
Yeah. These guys in power today are thus.
They find it pleasing.
-
I see nothing wrong with having the best women. In fact, I have one.
Me, too! :thumb: :inlove: :notworthy: :dance:
-
Remember how the Netherlands brought in a new goalkeeper for Penalty Kicks against Costa Rica? Maybe they did that because they knew the game goalie was terrible against PKs. If that's the case, they may have lost that game by using all their substitutions during the playing time. Any comments?
Of course, Argentina's goalie helped things out by blocking 2 of the Dutch attempts.
-
I share your disdain for Robben and the Dutch. Good riddance.
Well, I like the Dutch.
Frankly, half the problem is the referees, when they look right at Robben and give him the benefit of the doubt by giving him the call. If they start ignoring the minor infractions, he'd stop doing it. It just looks too ridiculous on a consistent basis.
-
My anecdote of the game between Brazil and Germany of the past Tuesday....
Crónica de lo que pasó mientras veía el partido entre Alemania y Brasil....
Bajé la chela. Estaba 1 a cero. I lowered my beer. It was 1 to zero
Me bebí un sorbo....estaba 2 a cero. I took a swig.....It was 2 to zero
Me comi un cacahuete...y estaba 3 a cero. I ate a peanut.....and it as 3 to zero
Me tragué el cacahuete y el partido estaba 4 a cero. I swallowed the peanut and the game was 4 to zero
Produje un eructo...y se metió el quinto. I burped and the fifth was scored.
Cuando fui al baño para hacer el número dos....escuché el grito de mi vecino alemán...supe que era la sexta. I went to the bathroom to do number 2....and I heard the shout of my German neighbor.....and I knew it was the sixth
Y cuando bajé el agua del inodoro...escuché a Ángela Merkel gritando gooooollll por la tv. and when I flushed.....I heard Angela Merkel screaming Gooooallll through the TV
Jijijiji
:thumb:
-
Y cuando bajé el agua del inodoro...escuché a Ángela Merkel gritando gooooollll por la tv. and when I flushed.....I heard Angela Merkel screaming Gooooallll through the TV
Jijijiji
:thumb:
:rotflmao: :rotflmao: :thumb:
-
I say to all people, the Cup is just a set of games and nothing else. Those in Brazil should not read too much into what happened. This Sunday, the game between Argentina and Germany will test two theories.....1: That the Germans were prepared all along to score their way to the top OR 2: if the game is more even than the Mineirazo, then, that somehow Germany got lucky all along facing some questionable opponents along the way to the top. I tell you much, the game between Netherlands and Argentina, the Argentinians had more guts and tenacity than the Brazilians had when facing Germany. I can still the image of the Argentinean defender Zabaleta...and he still playing with something stuck to his face. One thing that I can tell you, they played and bled on the field...now, will that be enough to defend themselves against the German bombardment......who knows?
-
Brazil wasn't just missing Neymar, they were missing their Captain, Thiago Silva. Granted, it was Silva's own stupid fault, but the Team was devastated.
The rest of the team knew they were screwed. What would the Lakers have done in a game of this magnitude without Kobe and Shaq? The 'Niners without Montana and Rice? The rest of the team just deflates.
Soon we'll see how Germany performs against a full squad. :thumb:
-
Argentina might not be a full squad. Angel Di Maria, one of their strikers, missed the Netherlands game with an injury. I haven't heard if he'll be back for the final. And the remainder of the team is coming off only 4 days rest after a grueling 120 minutes against the Dutch. Germany's arsenal, on the other hand, is having a longer rest after a breeze of a game against Brazil.
Winner is anybody's guess, of course, but I give the advantage to Germany.
-
Pride, arrogance and pride and more pride.
They have the best salaries, fame, the best houses, the best cars and even the best woman,
FRM, in life, we tend to get what we deserve. I'm guessing that's why you are SOL with women.
-
I tried to find how to say misogynist in Portuguese. Apparently they have no use for such a word.
-
Alright guys - let's calm down. While I don't share all of FRMs personal views (I am a fan of "satanic music"), I don't see any misogynistic comments in this thread (and pretty sure it's a very similar word in Portuguese). By "best women" I'm sure he means in the conventional term of attractive / famous / etcetera, not in every important respect. And it is true that they are regally rewarded in every way - so when their country expends billions to host the WC and build stadiums for them to play in and millions are watching them play with their hopes and dreams riding on their performance, giving up because two key players are absent is totally unacceptable. They really needed to give it there all, and they clearly didn't. Even a college level team would have lost by considerably less than the Brazil national team vs Germany.
Being good Christians I assume Brazilians will eventually forgive and forget, but here's hoping they decide to show up spiritually in their last game and try to rebuild some honor and goodwill.
-
FRM, in life, we tend to get what we deserve. I'm guessing that's why you are SOL with women.
Your focus is women, whatever I say you will find strange.
Woman is for the youngs.
Jarcher: Thanks bro, you most kind.
-
Being good Christians I assume Brazilians will eventually forgive and forget, but here's hoping they decide to show up spiritually in their last game and try to rebuild some honor and goodwill.
Uh, right. They're still agonizing over their 2-1 WC final loss to Uruguay in 1950 - 64 years ago!!! :roll:
-
Your focus is women, whatever I say you will find strange.
Woman is for the youngs.
I'm in my 60s, and most of my non-audiophile friends are women of all ages. Most quickly figure out which men don't deserve female companionship and choose men who respect them. Your condescending and hateful attitude toward women suggests the women in Brazil have figured that out, too.
My focus is making my amazing wife of nearly 10 years happy. When she's happy, I'm happy.
Try that approach sometime.
-
Back to our regular programming............
In my wife's office people were watching the game, and it sounded something like this:
WHAT?!?!
WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!
WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!
REALLY??? Hey guys, are you watching this game???
WHAT????????????????????
etc., ad infinitum and forever. :o
-
Uh, right. They're still agonizing over their 2-1 WC final loss to Uruguay in 1950 - 64 years ago!!! :roll:
Touché. Perhaps FRM can elaborate on the truth of this. Seems like the press really liked to rattle on about it, particularly after the recent loss to Germany.
-
The Brazilian performance against Germany was unusual for sure, but it was a day for the Germans when everything went right for them -- it's rare but it happens. Luiz running forward at every opportunity from central defense didn't help either. I think the final is a different game altogether. Argentina may not have impressed as much in the attacking stakes as the Germans but they have something strong going on as a team too. Messi is truly tired looking now. Certainly he's had a long season and he's a player who gets lots of 'attention' from opposing players in every game but Argentina are clever enough to work this to their advantage as a team. And of course, he's still capable of a moment of magic.
In soccer, what is most difficult to grasp on TV is the organization of the teams on the full field of play. When you see a game live you can appreciate more clearly how the tactics work, how the defense is set up and organized, and how well the team shape is maintained in the face of opposition moves and possession changes. My sense is Argentina are extremely good at containment, making it supremely hard for opposition to score. It doesn't make great TV viewing but live it's another matter. And despite the attention of the world on Messi, the other players in the squad are highly skilled too. I'd like to see a European team finally triumph in South America and Germany are the form team but am not sure that counts for too much on the day. All I really want is a game settled by real goals, not penalties. It's been a great month.
-
Brazil's lost to Germany was not unexpected , them getting 7-1 or almost an 8-1 flogging was unexpected. The team looked avg at best even with Naymar, so without, not unexpected loss at all against Germany ..
I'm hoping Argentina pulls it off.....
-
Touché. Perhaps FRM can elaborate on the truth of this. Seems like the press really liked to rattle on about it, particularly after the recent loss to Germany.
Here the soccer press are brown press they are having a moment of glory with these unusual headlights.
Explanations are endless and facts and stories related directly and indirectly abound at all day.
They will repeat this tragic tango for eons to dont give rest to the crowd.
My afro neighbor since the fateful day no more heard Pagode and even his pornographic funk.
-
This thread has taken an odd turn.
I am hopeful the Brazil side pulls it off today.
I am torn about tomorrow. I'd like to see Argentina win tomorrow, but the German team is strong. It will be a low scoring one tomorrow I bet.
-
It would be great to see a Latin team win the cup but I don't see Germany losing. They are a powerhouse and the better team. This World Cup was a good appetizer, before the real football, NFL, season begins. Bears!
-
Real football , NFL..! :duh:
Yep , nothing compares to throwing an egg around , must be the Real "football"...:)
-
Scoreless in Regulation.
We have a 30 minute World Cup Final, barring PKs.
Great game!!!
-
Germany 1.
If the Argentinians won they would get even more arrogant.
End game.
-
Germany 1.
If the Argentinians won they would get even more arrogant.
The young Argentinian women in the stands are winners! :inlove:
-
The young Argentinian women in the stands are winners! :inlove:
Yes, that they are... :o
Congrats Germany!!!
(http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01620/WORLD-CUP_1620749c.jpg)
-
One of the prettiest goals of the tournament.
-
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7Di0bNl4xE
-
One of the prettiest goals of the tournament.
I agree. It looked like a shot Mario had practiced a million times. Super awesome. :thumb:
-
Hard to say who is the big loser this Cup, Brazil or Argentina!
The game with Germany was 11September for Brazilians:
http://f5.folha.uol.com.br/televisao/2014/07/1485339-luciano-huck-compara-goleada-do-brasil-pela-alemanha-a-atentado-de-11-de-setembro.shtml
-
Argentina made their fans poud
So did Germany.
So did Holland.
It's not looking so well for Brazil.
-
:peek:
-
One of the prettiest goals of the tournament.
+1
I and my friends were rooting for Argentina, but all agreed that this was one of the better goals of the tournament.
Argentina had atleast 2 clear chances that they blew. Can't really blame anyone if simple easy ones are not converted against a team like Germany.
-
It was a fantastic goal , a pity , for Messi that is. As to the brazil Holland match , lousy goal keeping aside, Brazil was robbed ....
-
Germany was awesome, but I admit rooting for Argentina. Great championship game by two talented teams.
Brazil was a disgrace and I don't blame their fans for being angry.
Also, the Latin women are smoking hot. Colombian, Brazilian, Argentinian, Costa Rican, etc., how can anyone pick a favorite? Maybe soccer isn't so bad after all!
-
Those futballers all have awesome WAGs! :o
-
Germany was awesome, but I admit rooting for Argentina. Great championship game by two talented teams.
Brazil was a disgrace and I don't blame their fans for being angry.
Also, the Latin women are smoking hot. Colombian, Brazilian, Argentinian, Costa Rican, etc., how can anyone pick a favorite? Maybe soccer isn't so bad after all!
Hot, yes, but I vote for Brazilian all the way.
Argentina had an amazing defense but was pathetic around the goal (and not just in the final match) and eventually you have to score.
-
World Cup fever is finally subsiding in our house as I await the opening game of my Redskins. I just finished two, imo, fantastic books on soccer: Nick Hornby's tremendously enjoyable Fever Pitch (1993) and David Winner's Brilliant Orange The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Soccer, a very readable analysis of Dutch football as well as a commentary on Dutch culture and Dutch obsessions. As a fan of Dutch soccer, I found this fascinating.
Hup, Orange, Hup!
-
World Cup fever is finally subsiding in our house as I await the opening game of my Redskins.
As a fellow Redskins fan, you have my sincerest condolences. :lol:
The most frustrating uneven club in NFL recent history.
Whoops - I guess this topic is about the other football....
-
As a fellow Redskins fan, you have my sincerest condolences. :lol:
The most frustrating uneven club in NFL recent history.
Whoops - I guess this topic is about the other football....
Thanks for the two titles...I haven't read a good football (soccer) book since "The Game of Their Lives" came out (the 1950 US team's world cup story)...
Best,
John
-
World Cup fever is finally subsiding in our house as I await the opening game of my Redskins. I just finished two, imo, fantastic books on soccer: Nick Hornby's tremendously enjoyable Fever Pitch (1993) and David Winner's Brilliant Orange The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Soccer, a very readable analysis of Dutch football as well as a commentary on Dutch culture and Dutch obsessions. As a fan of Dutch soccer, I found this fascinating.
Hup, Orange, Hup!
Read this:
http://www.livrariasaraiva.com.br/produto/347696/estrela-solitaria/
(http://images.livrariasaraiva.com.br/imagem/imagem.dll?pro_id=347696&L=310&qld=100&A=-1&PIM_Id=)
http://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estrela_Solit%C3%A1ria_-_Um_Brasileiro_Chamado_Garrincha
It is a biographical book and tells the story of football player Manuel Francisco dos Santos, the famous Garrincha, from his birth to his tragic death due to alcoholism. To describe this trajectory, Ruy Castro, author of Chega de Saudade and The Pornographic Angel, has more than 500 interviews with 170 people. Garrincha reborn in Lone Star as a human tragic hero.
Five days after its release, the book was banned by the Brazilian courts after heirs of the former player asked for compensation for alleged damage to the image of father. The prohibition of "Lone Star" lasted nearly an década.
The embargo ended after decision of the Superior Court, which ordered the publisher to pay compensation of 100 minimum salaries for each heir to Garrincha in damages, with interest at 6% per annum from the date of release of the book.
The book gave the film Garrincha - Lone Star (2003), produced by Jorge Moreno, directed by Milton Alencar and André Gonçalves and Tais Araujo.