View Full Version : World Cup Russia 2018
chris@panteg
14-06-2018, 05:41
Post your thoughts here then.
I think Germany will go all the way as usual, I also think Brazil are looking like a much better team it could be they make the final against Germany and maybe a chance for redemption for what happened on July 8th 2014.
Belgium should do better this time with the team they have, but I don't know, Uruguay, Portugal will be hard to beat
France are in with a shout, Spain despite the managerial problem will still perform, surprises? Sweden, Denmark or Iceland to get far?
COMEBACK. Well you ve named most teams there Chris ?. Brazil to win World Cup and how original is that !
Pete The Cat
14-06-2018, 07:57
I seem to recall that the continent that the tournament is played in favours its own.
Spain are still in it. The squad will rally and Hierro has been part of the set-up as well as having a CV that England would sell the crown jewels for.
I'm just glad that the hype around England has died down. It made me bored with international football.
Sherwood
14-06-2018, 08:03
Post your thoughts here then.
I think Germany will go all the way as usual, I also think Brazil are looking like a much better team it could be they make the final against Germany and maybe a chance for redemption for what happened on July 8th 2014.
Belgium should do better this time with the team they have, but I don't know, Uruguay, Portugal will be hard to beat
France are in with a shout, Spain despite the managerial problem will still perform, surprises? Sweden, Denmark or Iceland to get far?
Historically, Germany don't perform as well on Russian soil as they do elsewhere! :eyebrows:
Historically, Germany don't perform as well on Russian soil as they do elsewhere! :eyebrows:
Nice One
Sherwood
14-06-2018, 08:58
Nice One
Nor do the French for that matter!
chris@panteg
14-06-2018, 09:36
Historically, Germany don't perform as well on Russian soil as they do elsewhere! :eyebrows:
Well yes, the last time didn't work out well, the supporters have been assured of special treatment, whatever that means.
chris@panteg
14-06-2018, 10:04
COMEBACK. Well you ve named most teams there Chris ?. Brazil to win World Cup and how original is that !
Brian, I've never done anything original in my life so why start now?
Who do you fancy then? Or is it a secret.
Glad you've started this thread, Chris. I'll comment more later. Just getting ready to watch the opening match with Russia, bottle of chilled Baltika in hand:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/9ICLPK.jpg
Russian beer is rather good!! :barrel::barrel:
Let's hope it's a good match - I have my reservations.....
Marco.
Brian, I've never done anything original in my life so why start now?
Who do you fancy then? Or is it a secret.
Sorry Chris I meant my fancy was for Brazil and its me thats not very original !. Badly worded I m afraid.
Nice performance from the hosts today against admittedly poor opposition.
Well, that was a much better and more open match than I expected! :eek::)
Great opening game from the hosts, who despite rather poor opposition, showed their threat up front and attacking skills. I like how they played a fast pressing game. If they keep that up, and particularly their attack-minded and positive attitude, with the home crowd behind them too, they should do quite well.
This is certainly a much better Russian side than the boring defensive one we watched at the last World Cup!
Predictions? I'm going to reserve judgment on that one until I've seen each team play once, quite simply because, out with of the known 'superstars', I know next to nothing about most of the players. It's the first time I'll be watching the finals of a major football tournament with no real team to support (in the absence of Italy, Wales or Scotland)...
I will say though that (as usual) Germany will be there or thereabouts, and that after the last shambles I'm expecting big things from Brazil. I'd love to see a 'revenge match' between both teams, after Brazil's 7-1 humping from Germany last time, as I'm sure that such a showdown would be a cracker!!
I wish England well, as long as their fans behave and the media and commentators [and even some of the players] stop talking about their chances of winning the bloody thing, when they haven't even reached a semi-final for 28 years:doh:
Clue: if you want to gain the respect of neutrals watching (like me), rather than receive ridicule in our 'Anyone but England' T-shirts, best be a realist than a fantasist......;)
Anyway, let's all hope for some good, entertaining games in the weeks to come!!:cool:
Marco.
England
Will
Win
[emoji38]
I wish England well, as long as their hooligan fans behave and the media and commentators [and even some of the players] stop talking about their chances of winning the bloody thing, when they haven't even reached a semi-final for 28 years:doh:
Clue: if you want to gain the respect of neutrals watching (like me), rather than receive ridicule in our 'Anyone but England' T-shirts, best be a realist than a fantasist......;)
.
'And now on BBC1, World Cup Football. Viewers in Scotland will have their own programme.'
Sorry, couldn't resist.
I'm having £20 on Germany to win. I've also got a load of spread bets on the scores but I'm putting them on as I go along, if I win early on I'll use it to double up the bets for the next one and so on. Sort of like a self administered accumulator.
'And now on BBC1, World Cup Football. Viewers in Scotland will have their own programme.'
Lol - is that one free from blatantly English-biased commentary, or simply free of a Scotland team?:D
I'm having £20 on Germany to win. I've also got a load of spread bets on the scores but I'm putting them on as I go along, if I win early on I'll use it to double up the bets for the next one and so on. Sort of like a self administered accumulator.
Good luck. I haven't put money on anyone. Like I said, I'll make a prediction (just for fun) after I've seen each team play once:)
Marco.
Lol - is that one free from blatantly English-biased commentary, or simply free of a Scotland team?:D
Good luck. I haven't put money on anyone. Like I said, I'll make a prediction (just for fun) after I've seen each team play once:)
Marco.
You don't get as good odds then. That's the only problem with that.
Lol - I know. I'm not interested in gambling. My prediction for the winner (top 3) will simply be for a bit of fun here:)
Marco.
Audio Al
14-06-2018, 18:31
Good win for the hosts nation 5-0 :)
Lol - I know. I'm not interested in gambling. My prediction for the winner (top 3) will simply be for a bit of fun here:)
Marco.
I'll have a punt on your predictions as well then. If you're right I can say 'Look at what you could have won'. :D
Lol - that sounds like a giggle!
Marco.
chris@panteg
14-06-2018, 19:48
Didn't watch the game, was at work, but that's unusual for a a five nil opening game, wonder if this is a sign of of more to come?
A solid team and the home side against arguably the weakest team in the tournament? I had it as 3-0 / 4-0/ 5-0.
Stratmangler
14-06-2018, 20:07
A solid team and the home side against arguably the weakest team in the tournament?
Is it?
There might be other considerations https://edition.cnn.com/2018/06/14/football/saudi-arabia-world-cup-ramadan-fasting-elite-athletes-spt-intl/index.html
Ramadan 2018 ends today.
Is it?
There might be other considerations https://edition.cnn.com/2018/06/14/football/saudi-arabia-world-cup-ramadan-fasting-elite-athletes-spt-intl/index.html
Ramadan 2018 ends today.
Probably didn't help them. But I didn't know that when I made my chart.
If you've got any more stuff like that PM me, ideally before the game starts ;)
Stratmangler
14-06-2018, 20:20
I expect Uruguay to do well tomorrow.
I expect Uruguay to do well tomorrow.
I have Uruguay to win, 1-0, 2-0, 2-1.
Audio Al
14-06-2018, 22:57
Didn't watch the game, was at work, but that's unusual for a a five nil opening game, wonder if this is a sign of of more to come?
First 5-0 opener since 1934
Audio Al
14-06-2018, 22:58
A solid team and the home side against arguably the weakest team in the tournament? I had it as 3-0 / 4-0/ 5-0.
Were England playing :scratch:
Well, what a load of boring, slow, tactical pish that first half was!! Just the type of football I detest:rolleyes: Two teams that simply don't want to lose their first game, rather than go out and try to WIN....
Let's hope that they all wake up in the second half, particularly Salah and Suarez, and remember that the fans watching are paying to get some ENTERTAINMENT!!!
Marco.
Well, 0-1 to Uruguay... A better second half (just), and the game won by the least worst team! Cavani is clearly quality, and showed some great touches, especially with that superb free kick, which should've resulted in a goal. Suarez, however, was dreadful.
Egypt were simply playing for a draw, and were super-defensive. Like Saudi Arabia, they're not a great team to watch, and simply play to their strengths, which I guess is understandable, but for neutrals it makes things very boring.
The sad thing for me, when you watch teams like that is how much better it would've been had they been replaced with the likes of Wales, and Gareth Bale lighting up this World Cup instead!
Anyway, let's hope for something better in the two remaining games today, especially Portugal vs. Spain.
Marco.
no matches grabbed my thoughts yet. only gonna watch the ones i fancy
I'm trying to catch them all, as I've got different beers in to drink from all the alcohol drinking nations!
Next up is some Casablanca beer from Morocco:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/NJElI6.jpg
:barrel:
Marco.
chris@panteg
15-06-2018, 17:05
Well they won't want to play that one again in casablanca, that's a cruel blow in the 95th minute.
Another bland, boring, 'nothing' game though, Chris, which unfortunately this tournament will be full of in the early stages. That's why the Russia match was such a shock. I suspect that they felt duty bound to entertain, as a result of being the home team!
Only when we get two teams who have the confidence and ability to play at a high tempo and impose THEMSELVES on games, by properly attacking the opposition, rather than simply nullifying them, will we get some entertaining football.
Hopefully that will come later tonight, with Spain and Portugal, but I'm certain it'll come when France play, who on paper at least, are the most exciting team in the competition. They played some wonderful stuff in the last World Cup.
Btw, full marks to ITV who featured a black woman as a pundit. No idea who she was, although she spoke eloquently and knew her subject well, but bringing more women into the sport, on all levels, is to be applauded!:clap:
Marco.
Now *THAT* was a game of football!!! :eek::wow:
:exactly:
Marco.
RobbieGong
15-06-2018, 20:44
Now *THAT* was a game of football!!! :eek::wow:
:exactly:
Marco.
Indeed !! Ronaldo !!! :eek: Just brilliant, world stage and just rises to the highest heights every time.
His 51st hat trick as well :eek:
If you look over his achievements, what he's done and continues to do..... The best player in the world all said and done
Indeed. Statistically he is, but I still prefer Bale. He's more my type of player. Both are genuinely world class, though.
I had to laugh when some of the pundits were putting Harry Kane forward as 'world class', desperately trying to talk up England's World Cup hopes. He's good, but couldn't lace either of the above's respective pairs of boots!
Oh, and continuing the beer theme, this match was enjoyed with an ice-cold bottle of Mahou and Super Bock:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/923/YENKnz.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/921/1b75bb.jpg
:cool:
Marco.
Minstrel SE
16-06-2018, 05:28
Yep looking forward to some more great games.... I often look forward to the teams like Japan who may not be the worlds best but make for an interesting game. I just like to see heart and soul in a match over professional cynicism.
I will need to see a few more matches but might have a bet on Germany or Brazil to take it. Theres quite a few teams you cant rule out if they have their day. Theres a few draws that could go either way but nobody will be hammering the bookie on those odds
Now *THAT* was a game of football!!! :eek::wow:
:exactly:
Marco.
I agree, it was a superb game and may well be one of the best of the tournament.
chris@panteg
16-06-2018, 11:52
France not at their best, Australia gave them a game, a bit unlucky.
It's not over yet!;)
Marco.
France 2 Australia 1 / Argentina 1 Iceland 1
So France struggle to put Australia (featuring Celtic's Tom Rogic) to bed, but get there in the end. Not really the decisive performance I had expected from France, but the Ozzies are traditionally hard to beat.
Aguero scores a peach against Iceland, but Messi misses a penalty and disappoints overall. Full marks go to Iceland for taking a point against the mighty Argentina, who after watching them in this game I doubt will win the cup.
I always enjoy watching Iceland, and have a bit of a soft spot for them, as I just love the SHEER PASSION they show on the field and how much they love playing for their country. Plus I love the laid back Scandinavian attitude - gorgeous country, too! So I hope they can get through the group.
Beers enjoyed during this game were:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/922/o9Tvur.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/923/mhWv4u.jpg
Next up, Peru vs. Denmark!:cool:
Marco.
chris@panteg
16-06-2018, 15:53
I had a feeling that Iceland would get something out of the game, I can see them qualifying from the group, very hard to beat.
Looking forward to seeing Peru v Denmark, good to see Peru back in the world cup, I remember how good Cubillas was.
I had a feeling that Iceland would get something out of the game, I can see them qualifying from the group, very hard to beat.
Looking forward to seeing Peru v Denmark, good to see Peru back in the world cup, I remember how good Cubillas was.
Dont mention that to the Scots Chris !. Peru were so unlucky this afternoon, there bold , skilful play deserved so much more but thats footie for you all that possession and nothing to
show for it ?. Hope they can turn it around in there next match though.
Minstrel SE
16-06-2018, 20:55
Nigeria are extremely disappointing as this match draws to a close. They just dont look as if they even wanted to turn up
chris@panteg
16-06-2018, 21:49
Nigeria are extremely disappointing as this match draws to a close. They just dont look as if they even wanted to turn up
Exactly, very little intent or interest?
Dont mention that to the Scots Chris !. Peru were so unlucky this afternoon, there bold , skilful play deserved so much more but thats footie for you all that possession and nothing to
show for it ?. Hope they can turn it around in there next match though.
Lol... 1982 - I remember it well! Those were the days of 'glorious failure', when we actually had some world-class players, but were more likely to beat the likes of Holland or Spain, than Peru! Now it's just abject failure:D
We've got a good bunch of youngsters coming through the ranks though, so hopefully that will translate into success soon. Thing is, we know we're shite and have no delusions of grandeur, whereas England.........;)
Anyway, the reason why Peru got nothing from the game was simply because they couldn't finish! That penalty miss was one of the worst I've seen at this level in a long time...Plus, whenever they got near the Denmark penalty area, they just wanted to walk the ball into the net:doh:
Peru seemed to panic when they got into the Denmark penalty box, and ultimately paid the price for that. Denmark did what they needed to do, but I wasn't overly impressed with them.
And yes, Nigeria were very disappointing - I had expected rather more from them. However, I thought Croatia were excellent and should've won by more. Modric was superb. He's one of my favourite players, just so technically gifted and skilful. He'd defo be in my 'World Cup XI'
Looking forward to watching Germany and Brazil today and seeing where both teams are 'at'. It could turn out to be the final, which I'd dearly love to see!:)
Marco.
chris@panteg
17-06-2018, 09:27
Yes Marco, I've already predicted a Brazil v Germany final, though I've just been looking at the history of Germany world cup wins and interestingly every time they win it, the defence seems to go badly wrong, certainly in 1978 and 1994.
But I think this team is just too good for that to happen.
I think Croatia were basically playing at half speed last night, when they face a tougher opponent they will surely step up a gear, very good side.
That was actually 1978 with dear old Ally Macloud when they ( apparently ) were gonna win the whole thing ! Can still remember the tarton army flicking
v signs at the manager as Scotland were sent packing at the hands of Peru. Not that England even made it to the finals for that one btw. Happy days
Yeah sorry, '78. I was getting mixed up with something else! That was the same year this happened:
q3FvlWyyAKg
:yay:
Marco.
P.S It's MacLeod;)
yup, wee bud johnston got sent home for failing a dope test :lol: think he had innocently taken Reactivan. funny thing was it was archie gemmill who should have done the test and willie offered to do it for him as he was dehydrated...
Yeah I remember something about that, but not too much. I was only 13 at the time. The main thing that stuck in my mind was all the 'Ally's tartan army' pish, funny though it was.
World Cup 82 was more my era:)
Marco.
Yeah, new I was struggling with Ally s name mate. Great goal that.
knew willie.. had a pub in kirkaldy. used to fix his machines for him.. a mad gambler; would bet on anything lol
yup, wee bud johnston got sent home for failing a dope test :lol: think he had innocently taken Reactivan. funny thing was it was archie gemmill who should have done the test and willie offered to do it for him as he was dehydrated...
17 red cards in his career. Must have spent as much time off the pitch as on it !
chris@panteg
17-06-2018, 15:36
Wow, great play from Mexico, can they keep this up? Germany look a little sluggish.
chris@panteg
17-06-2018, 17:05
Mexico deserved that win, could and should have been a second goal, Germany very lacklustre but must improve surely?
Germany 0 Mexico 1 / Brazil 1 Switzerland 1
Only seen the highlights of Costa Rica vs. Serbia (0-1), so can't really comment too much, save to say that Kolarov's free kick was a stunner!
Yup, Mexico most certainly deserved that win, as right from the off, they *wanted* it more than Germany, who only really woke up and started playing, as they can, in the last 20 mins, and had a couple of near misses.
A strangely subdued start then from Germany, but then again Mexico have always been a rather 'stuffy' and hard side to beat, plus they have some talented players, so not only can they defend well, but they possess a threat up front. If they continue playing like that, they're going to do well in this competition.
I think that Germany, having now had this wake-up call, will be a different team in their next match - and they'll need to be if they're going to win the cup. After watching that game yesterday though and analysing some of the players, my gut feeling [that's all it is at the moment] is that they won't be the winners this year, which brings me onto Brazil....
I started off being very impressed with Brazil, especially defensively, and in terms of their overall organisation. In that respect, they've clearly learned from the disaster of the last World Cup, and of course they have a number of world class players in their ranks, particularly up front, especially in Coutinho, whose goal was just simply sublime!!
For me, that's going to be the goal of the tournament. It will certainly take something pretty special to beat it. However, after Brazil scored, instead of going on to assert their class and put Switzerland to bed, they seem to retreat into their shell and almost be contented that one goal was enough, which was disappointing and not at all like Brazil teams of the past.
Again, Switzerland have always been a tough team to beat. They're usually pretty solid defensively, as was proven last night. The goal they conceded, no keeper in the world could have stopped, and with the likes of Shaqiri, who I thought had an excellent game, they've always got a chance of creating something out of nothing. His corner, which lead to the goal, was superb. If only all corners from teams were taken like that!
However, back to Brazil... As I've said this is a different Brazil team from old, and one which seems to be less showboating and more disciplined and organised, but still with players who can change a game in an instant. The defence does look suspect from cross balls, which I'm sure they can sort, but other than that I think they have the discipline and mental toughness, of course as well as they skill, to go all the way.
The teams I expect to do well, but won't necessarily win it are the likes of Croatia, Belgium, Portugal and Mexico. The hosts, Russia, also have a chance, particularly if they continue to play as well as they did in the opening match, but realistically I can't see them getting any further than the quarter-finals.
Spain aside, it's been a subdued start from most of the 'big hitters', but that's not unusual, as plenty of teams in the past who've drawn their opening games have gone on to win the cup, and in that respect I'm pretty sure we've already seen the winner. It's often the teams who 'grow into' a tournament, rather than those who start off with a bang, who go onto win it. Of the teams that realistically have a chance of winning it, Spain have impressed me the most, followed by France, then Brazil, Argentina and Germany.
Portugal, of course, were fantastic, but for me they rely too heavily on Ronaldo, so if he should get injured or have a bad game, the back up isn't there to take his place, unlike is the case with the other teams I've mentioned. I also feel the same way about Argentina, who rely too much on Messi, although of course they have Aguero. For me though, overall, unless they improve markedly, I don't see them as this year's winners.
England and Belgium of course still have to play, and I'm very much looking forward to watching today's games. I'm expecting good things from Belgium, and they could well be an outside tip for going all the way, if all their big players click, and certainly wish England well tonight against Tunisia. They're a young team and have plenty of talent. It's simply a matter of if they can all gel together and embrace that all-important 'tournament mentality', which has been sadly lacking since 1990.
I think they're have to win tonight to have a chance of doing anything, as the pressure that will be put on the players if they don't will be incredible, and we know where that usually leads... That said, I'm going to predict 2-0 to England. However, having studied the teams now with the most realistic chance of winning the cup, my prediction is that the winner will be either Spain, Brazil or France!
Anyway, good luck tonight to England :cool:
Marco.
chris@panteg
18-06-2018, 10:21
You know Marco, after watching the games so far, I've no idea who will win this now, could be Portugal? I had this strange nightmare of seeing Ronaldo lift the world cup:eek:
Right, been down the bookies and got a shedload of bets on this afternoon.
Germany to win the tournament, Spain to win the tournament.
Columbia v Japan 1-0, 0-1, 1-3
Belgium v Panama 2-1, 3-0, 4-0
Tunisia v England 0-1, 0-2, 1-2
Poland v Senegal 1-0, 0-1, 3-2 (I think the 3-2 should have been 1-2 but I couldn't read my own writing. So that's become a bit of long shot).
Let's see how it goes. England better not let me down. Starting to get pre-match nerves already and there's almost 4 hours to go yet.
Sorry, I don't bet so have no idea what that means...How can you predict two winners and all those different scores? I thought it had to be one winner and one scoreline per match?:scratch:
Marco.
A largely forgettable game between these two, won by the marginally least worst team. Let's hope for MUCH better in the other two games today!
Marco.
Good result for Belgium, against a pretty poor Panama team, who didn't really test them. Throughout long spells, the Belgian play was poor, but the goals were all rather special, especially Martens volley from outside the box!:eek:
Still, you can see the class that this team have, and they deserve to have the tag of outside chance winners. Celtic's Boyata did well and mostly looked solid. They'll certainly give England a hard game, but by then it might not matter if England win their first two games, starting tonight against Tunisia.
Let's hope for all England fans here they can get the win they need to kick start their tournament in style. I think they can do it: 2-0 England! :cool:
Marco.
RobbieGong
18-06-2018, 17:18
Good result for Belgium, against a pretty poor Panama team, who didn't really test them. Throughout long spells, the Belgian play was poor, but the goals we all rather special, especially Martens volley from outside the box!:eek:
Still, you can see the class that this team have, and deserve to have the tag of outside winners. They'll certainly give England a hard game, but by then it might not matter if England win their first two games, starting tonight against Tunisia.
Let's hope for all England fans here they can get the win they need to kick start their tournament in style. I think they can do it: 2-0 England! :cool:
Marco.
Exactly, they have a good team, no more of the same ole same ole, flat struggly performances, scraping through by hoping / relying on others to do you a favour :nono:
Come on Inglann !! :)
Well, what a painful second half that was until the 91st minute, when Kane scored his second goal!:doh::)
England started brightly, playing really well and at a high tempo in the first half hour, causing Tunisia all sorts of problems and had them on the rack, during which time Kane scored. And they created a number of other chances, which they spurned. You wondered if that would come back to haunt them, but in end it didn't.
Then England seemed to lose their way a bit, which is when Walker gave away the penalty for Tunisia, which I thought was a little unfortunate, as the Tunisian player definitely player for it, by running into his arm. Walker shouldn't have had his hand in that position though, facing his goal, as he couldn't see what was happening behind him. Hopefully, he'll not make that mistake again.
Then I thought England were denied a stonewall penalty, when Kane was manhandled in the box and wrestled to the ground. How that wasn't picked up by VAR, I've no idea. In fact, there was another England penalty claim shortly after, which seemed to have some merit, but again nothing was given.
Realistically, England should've gone in at half time at least 3-1 up, but it wasn't to be. Then in the second half they seemed to have all the energy sucked out of them and Tunisia were dictating the tempo, which was ponderous and designed to frustrate England. The pace had notably dropped from the first half. However, England kept on going and eventually got their reward. when Kane netted his second.
Definitely 'squeeky-bum' time for much of that second half, for England supporters, but all that matters is getting the three points, which they duly did, and I predicted would happen. Now if they can beat Panama, which I think they're got a great chance of doing, it'll put them in a great position to qualify for the next round.
No doubt there's still much more excitement to come! :cool:
Marco.
chris@panteg
18-06-2018, 20:16
Kane was wrestled to the ground twice and nothing given?
Good start for Harry Kane though, two goals in his first world cup game, Rooney had to wait until his third world cup for a goal.
RobbieGong
18-06-2018, 20:19
We made a little bit of a meal of it but thankfully Kane to the rescue.
Tunisia were dirty because they could be with a ref like that :rolleyes:
A couple of our guys looked slightly ordinary / lacking that clinical killer edge
We'll need to imrpove and take our chances going forward that's for sure.
Kane was wrestled to the ground twice and nothing given?
Good start for Harry Kane though, two goals in his first world cup game, Rooney had to wait until his third world cup for a goal.
Yeah, that England didn't get at least one penalty was a disgrace. What on earth is VAR for if it can't be used to highlight obvious fouls in the box?
Kane was excellent, along with Henderson and others, and Rashford made a good impact when he came on, as did Loftus-Cheek. It's important now that they [mainly pundits and media] don't get carried away, as is often the case when England win, and take Panama too lightly.
If England play to their capabilities, they should beat Panama, but Panama will also want to make up for their poor performance against Belgium, so it won't be easy. What England simply can't do is lose that game, as I'd be surprised if they could go on and beat Belgium, and then despite such a good start, they'd be back on the plane home.
So they must not take the Panama game too lightly, and show the same professionalism and commitment that they did against Tunisia.
Marco.
chris@panteg
18-06-2018, 20:36
Agreed Marco, not sure about Maguire though, he made a few mistakes, Rashford looked good as soon as he came on.
I think England can improve, they just desperately needed a win tonight to get some confidence and momentum.
Tunisia were dirty because they could be with a ref like that :rolleyes:
A couple of our guys looked slightly ordinary / lacking that clinical killer edge
We'll need to imrpove and take our chances going forward that's for sure.
Yeah I thought the ref was very poor and let the Tunisian players away with way too much, especially pushing and shoving in the box at corners. However, this result should give the England players a lot of confidence and take the pressure off them (and the manager) for a bit. It's a platform to build on.
However, like I said, I just hope they don't go thinking that the Panama game is a guaranteed three points. They need to treat that game exactly as they did the Tunisia one, or they could be in trouble.
Marco.
Them and Belgium are good bets to go far imo. Decent sides although England maybe lack a bit of quality and experience. Belgium
Should have both
chris@panteg
18-06-2018, 20:48
Yeah I thought the ref was very poor and let the Tunisian players away with way too much, especially pushing and shoving in the box at corners. However, this result should give the England players a lot of confidence and take the pressure off them (and the manager) for a bit. It's a platform to build on.
However, like I said, I just hope they don't go thinking that the Panama game is a guaranteed three points. They need to treat that game exactly as they did the Tunisia one, or they could be in trouble.
Marco.
I don't think there is any danger of complacency Marco, especially after tonight's game, I think the strategy should be the same, really go at them in the first half hour, if that doesn't work then then be patient like Belgium.
Sorry, I don't bet so have no idea what that means...How can you predict two winners and all those different scores? I thought it had to be one winner and one scoreline per match?:scratch:
Marco.
The bookies don't care they will take as many bets on as many different scorelines or winners as you like. But if you cover too many bases you won't win enough to cover all the bets.
Anyway, great England performance, could have been five nil. Best I've seen England play in a competitive game in years.
Belgium v Panama bit less exciting, Belgium seemed to take a long time to come to life.
Them and Belgium are good bets to go far imo.
Let's take it a step at a time. At the moment, England are nowhere near at the level of the top teams in the competition, but they have some quality, which with the right breaks could take them further than they've been in years.
Marco.
I don't think there is any danger of complacency Marco, especially after tonight's game, I think the strategy should be the same, really go at them in the first half hour, if that doesn't work then then be patient like Belgium.
Did you not hear Rio Ferdinand say that Panama were "no great shakes", almost dismissing them in the process? It's that kind of mindset that can get through to the players, and no doubt the English media will further feed that sort of over-confidence. That's what England have to guard against, not complacency.
The rest, I agree with:)
Marco.
The bookies don't care they will take as many bets on as many different scorelines or winners as you like. But if you cover too many bases you won't win enough to cover all the bets.
Ah I see, the scattergun approach?:D
Anyway, great England performance, could have been five nil. Best I've seen England play in a competitive game in years.
Belgium v Panama bit less exciting, Belgium seemed to take a long time to come to life.
No doubt overall England played well, but against better opposition they'll need to be much more clinical, or they'll be punished.
Belgium pretty much cruised through their game in third gear, and simply popped it about when they felt like it. The quality of their finishing though was different class - and that's precisely what England are currently lacking, as evidenced in the first half of tonight's game. It'll come though, if they get the chance.
Marco.
chris@panteg
18-06-2018, 21:17
Did you not hear Rio Ferdinand say that Panama were "no great shakes", almost dismissing them in the process? It's that kind of mindset that can get through to the players, and no doubt the English media will further feed that sort of over-confidence. That's what England have to guard against, not complacency.
The rest, I agree with:)
Marco.
If it was Woy still in charge or Sven I would be concerned but I think Southgate has a different approach, I'm sure he'll keep them focused on what's needed against Panama.
Ah I see, the scattergun approach?:D
Marco.
Not quite. For the two games I bet today I put on a total of £12 and I will walk into the bookies tomorrow with my slips and they will hand me £30 back. It's a good start.
If it was Woy still in charge or Sven I would be concerned but I think Southgate has a different approach, I'm sure he'll keep them focused on what's needed against Panama.
I agree, and have been impressed so far with Southgate's professional and methodical approach. He had the players very well prepared and all knowing what their jobs were. It's also clear that he has their respect and that camaraderie in the camp is good.
It augurs well for the future, even if this World Cup campaign isn't the biggest success. Time will tell:)
Marco.
Not quite. For the two games I bet today I put on a total of £12 and I will walk into the bookies tomorrow with my slips and they will hand me £30 back. It's a good start.
Enjoy... In terms of your prediction for the winner though, ignore Brazil or France at your peril;)
Marco.
I agree, and have been impressed so far with Southgate's professional and methodical approach. He had the players very well prepared and all knowing what their jobs were. It's also clear that he has their respect and that camaraderie is good.
It augurs well for the future, even if this World Cup campaign isn't the biggest success. Time will tell:)
Marco.
I'm not so sure about Southgate. What did he say to them at half-time? When they came back out it they slowed it right down. It was like watching a different team until about 15 minutes before the end when some of the inspiration came back.
You have to give credit to Tunisia for the tactical changes they made at half time, to nullify England's attacking threat and impose their game plan on proceedings, which was to lower the tempo and upset England's fluidity.
That and the heat, which unsurprisingly Tunisia coped better with, were the main reasons why England were poor for the majority of the second half, nothing to do with Southgate. He later went onto make two very positive substitutions, which got him the win.
Marco.
Good point.
Pity they didn't have a guy on the far post. That last goal could/should have been defended.
chris@panteg
19-06-2018, 08:00
Good point.
Pity they didn't have a guy on the far post. That last goal could/should have been defended.
The goalkeeper and a defender at the far post, I think you have to give some credit to Kane for that precise header.
Let's take it a step at a time. At the moment, England are nowhere near at the level of the top teams in the competition, but they have some quality, which with the right breaks could take them further than they've been in years.
Marco.
just 2 sides that may do well. obviously you can never forget the Germans; they usually start poor and grow to a mighty machine.
France too, have a superb squad, but there are question marks as always.... then Brazil, although out of their continent, will be decent, and the hosts will get stronger the more fever the fans get.
Still think Belgium have the quality and player maturity to make it to final. England, i would not count out due to quality alone. the 66 team were not the best footballers, but had everything else.
Sure, I hear where you're coming from.
My gut feeling just says that Germany won't do it again. Only Italy and Brazil (way back) have ever successfully defended their World Cup title, as it's incredibly hard to do, especially as the game has changed so much since then.
There's usually always a new winner, so that alone puts me off Germany this year. Plus, I don't think that their current team is as good as the one that won it last time.
I do agree with Belgium, and they could indeed be the surprise package, as they have the quality. Therefore, we'll see England's credentials, in that respect, when the two teams meet on 28th June. If England can beat Belgium, then I'll reassess my views of how far they're likely to go in this competition.
For me, Spain, Brazil and France have all the right 'tools' to win the cup, and some others, as I outlined earlier, will do well. Like you say, Brazil traditionally perform better when the tournament is based outside of Europe, so for me this year's winner is more likely to be Spain or France, but I wouldn't rule them out. The second group matches, though, will reveal much.
Marco.
Sure, I hear where you're coming from.
My gut feeling just says that Germany won't do it again. Only Italy and Brazil (way back) have ever successfully defended their World Cup title, as it's incredibly hard to do, especially as the game has changed so much since then.
There's usually always a new winner, so that alone puts me off Germany this year. Plus, I don't think that their current team is as good as the one that won it last time.
I do agree with Belgium, and they could indeed be the surprise package, as they have the quality. Therefore, we'll see England's credentials, in that respect, when the two teams meet on 28th June. If England can beat Belgium, then I'll reassess my views of how far they're likely to go in this competition.
For me, Spain, Brazil and France have all the right 'tools' to win the cup, and some others, as I outlined earlier, will do well. Like you say, Brazil traditionally perform better when the tournament is based outside of Europe, so for me this year's winner is more likely to be Spain or France, but I wouldn't rule them out. The second group matches, though, will reveal much.
Marco.
yup, spain could easily win it. much depends on their mentality as tourney goes on. losing their manager just before kinda put me off them a bit, but no doubt they have the quality of player.
Good old Japan, did the job on the Columbians. 2-1 as well for the best odds. I've won money on every game so far.
Yup, it was a good game. I could've predicted that one, as Japan are always entertaining to watch and attack well, although the goal Columbia scored from the free kick was a farce, especially the goalie's insistence that the ball hadn't crossed the line!
Nice try, but no cigar:D
Marco.
Just been in to collect my ill-gotten gains. That Japan Colombia result paid fourteens! Ding ding ding.
Looks like I'll get nothing out of Poland - Senegal, had Poland down to win that.
Yeah, I guess most folk would've chosen Poland. Thing is, in recent times they've been quite poor when they get to the World Cup. Had I been a betting man, I'd have taken that into consideration. Thing is, Poland gifted Senegal both of their goals!:doh: Not sure they'd have won otherwise.
Looking forward to seeing Russia pump Egypt....or will there be a shock - Salah hat-trick? :eek:
Marco.
Yeah, I guess most folk would've chosen Poland. Thing is, in recent times they've been quite poor when they get to the World Cup. Had I been a betting man, I'd have taken that into consideration. Thing is, Poland gifted Senegal both of their goals!:doh: Not sure they'd have won otherwise.
Looking forward to seeing Russia pump Egypt....or will there be a shock - Salah hat-trick? :eek:
Marco.
Gutted about that since I checked my chart and I had Senegal for a 2-1 win, but I couldn't read my own writing in the bookies so put them down for 3-2. What an idiot. 2-1 paid fourteens as well.
I'm expecting Russia to rip it up a bit, that might be wrong. Is Salah at full fitness?
Not sure, but he's playing. You're starting to make 'old man' mistakes now - say hello to the 'Big D';)
Marco.
I've got that game at 1-0 2- 0 2-1 to Russia so I'm allowing for an Egyptian goal.
Was just think about Salah coming off in the European cup final injured.
chris@panteg
19-06-2018, 17:47
I don't think Russia will find Egypt so easy, much tighter game.
I'm hoping Salah will have a good game, fingers crossed for him.
Sadly, no 'fairytale win' for Salah, but instead for Egypt, an almost inevitable exit from the tournament. They didn't play much better tonight than in their opening last-minute defeat to Uruguay. Salah was also obviously nowhere near match fit, but he gave it his best shot and scored the penalty.
Russia found it harder to put Egypt away than they did Saudi Arabia, but once they went 1-0 up, they got into their stride and there was only going to be one winner.
The more I see of this Russian team, the more I like the look of them. They're solid and mobile, throughout, and have some quick players full of attacking menace. Some of the goals they've scored so far have been nothing short of fantastic!
Ok, so far they've beaten two pretty poor teams, but have done so clinically, and with some style and panache. They also seem to be responding well to being the home team, and are feeding well off of the energy of their supporters, so who knows how far of all that can take them?
They're virtually through now to the knockout stages, but if they can beat Uruguay in their final group game, and avoid one of the big guns in the next round, then I could be tempted to put their name alongside that of Belgium, as potential outsiders to go all the way. However, before we get to that stage, they've still got a lot to prove, starting with that game against Uruguay.
Looking forward to some potentially good games tomorrow!:cool:
Marco.
chris@panteg
19-06-2018, 22:28
Program about Scotland's memorable world cup of 78 on BBC now, you might enjoy Marco.
Cheers, Chris. Recording it now:)
Unfortunately 'memorable' for mostly all the wrong reasons!;)
Marco.
Good result for Portugal but Uruguay couldn't even score 2 goals against the Saudis? What a rip off.
Still, going well overall, I'm fifty quid up already.
Predictions for the next few
Spain will beat Iran 2-0 3-0 4-0
France to beat Peru 3-0, 3-1, 4-0 - yeah I know but the odds if one of them comes off are fantastic.
Argentina to beat Croatia 1-0, 2-1, 3-1
Denmark to beat Australia 1-0, 2-0, 3-1
Two shocking games, though, for the neutral - utterly BORING beyond belief, especially that last one!:rolleyes:
Has there ever been a worse, more negative team, at the finals of the World Cup than Saudi Arabia? All they do is pass the ball to death, without any end product!:doh: And Morocco weren't much better against Portugal, who won again thanks to Ronaldo. A one-man team?
You have to wonder how the likes of Italy, Holland and Wales, although they didn't qualify, wouldn't be more entertaining to watch, and add something more positive to the competition, than the likes of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Morocco?
If it were me, I'd change the rules so that it wasn't just a points total that qualified you for the finals, but a wins/goals tally, simply to promote teams who like to play entertaining, attacking football, and penalise the negative, boredom merchants, happy to trundle to draws or 1-0 wins!
One of whom are also Uruguay - I *really* detest their dour style of football, although it is undeniably effective. They certainly aren't a fun team to watch. Suarez scored a good goal, but with him and Cavani, including numerous other talented players in the side, why not push for more goals and ENTERTAIN the fans, including us neutrals sitting through that dross...
They should take a leaf out of Russia's book! The sad thing is, Uruguay for me look like semi-finalists, minimum, as with their style of play, and the fact that they're so accomplished at it, they're going to be very difficult to beat, and much like Portugal with Ronaldo, can always rely on a goal from Suarez. Uruguay though, are much stronger defensively.
Anyway, let's now look forward to watching a proper football team: Spain! Hopefully, they'll score a few goals against Iran, and make up for those hours of dire pish we had to endure earlier! :cool:
Marco.
They look pretty good so far. Got to be at least 2 nil.
Good result for Portugal but Uruguay couldn't even score 2 goals against the Saudis? What a rip off.
Still, going well overall, I'm fifty quid up already.
Predictions for the next few
Spain will beat Iran 2-0 3-0 4-0
France to beat Peru 3-0, 3-1, 4-0 - yeah I know but the odds if one of them comes off are fantastic.
Argentina to beat Croatia 1-0, 2-1, 3-1
Denmark to beat Australia 1-0, 2-0, 3-1
Glad you've made some dosh - better in your pocket than the bookies!:) I'd dispute some of your predictions, though...
Defo Spain to beat Iran and France to beat Peru. However, Croatia are capable of giving Argentina a shock, so I'm not sure about that one. It'll be close. Likewise, I think Australia might beat Denmark, who I thought were rather poor. I can't see there being much in that one either.
Marco.
We'll see I guess. I'm playing with the bookie's money now anyway so who cares? :)
Go for it, and of course you might be right. I just think that, right now, Croatia are a better team than Argentina, although as ever, it'll come down to who wants it more, and plays better on the day [Messi vs. Modric]:)
Denmark vs. Australia could go either way, but I'm going to stick with the team one of my favourite Celtic players (Tom Rogic) plays for, and that's Australia.
Marco.
Iranians are making a decent fist of keeping Spain at bay. Quite a surprise.
I hate their time-wasting and cheating, though! They're a horrible team to play against, on various levels.
Marco.
Their cheating was ludicrous.
Thought Spain might get punished for sitting back after scoring though. They deserved to be. Couldn't score two lousy goals against that shower. That's another slip I can rip up.
It was pretty dire, overall. But most of that was due to the tactics of Iran. However, they did give it a go in parts, unlike Saudi bloody Arabia!
I'm really glad these teams have pissed off home now, as they simply don't add any value to the tournament, other than for their own supporters. Anyway, there should be some better games tomorrow:)
Marco.
Well I'm hoping France wipe the floor with Peru, the bookies seem to favour a win for Peru or a draw.
The evening game is the only one I can watch as they won't let us at work. They seem to think we should be doing business instead for some crazy reason.
Thankfully, I don't have that issue:eyebrows:
Peru beat France? No chance!
Marco.
That's what I think too. The French will thump them.
Well, not so much thump, as trundle to a narrow win... The French were very good in the first half, where they played at a high tempo, but seemed to switch off in the second and settle for a 1-0 win. No doubt they could've gone up the gears if they needed to, had Peru scored, but they just cruised it.
Peru are another one of those teams who 'flatter to deceive'. Lots of endeavour, coupled with some skill, but simply don't have enough threat in the final third, or are clinical enough in the penalty box, to punish teams. Great fans, and they gave it a good go, but ultimately were a little short of quality to make an impact.
France still haven't got properly going yet, but they've still shown enough for me to consider them as one of the potential winners, particularly their mental toughness and tournament mentality, enabling them to win matches whilst not being at their best, which is a trait of all the best teams.
I haven't watched the Denmark vs. Australia game yet (got it recorded) so will comment on that later. However, as predicted it was tight and Denmark didn't win!
Now, let's hope we get a cracker between Argentina and Croatia... Come on Modric and co! :cool:
Marco.
Last two days have been killing me. Too much sitting back when one up. Need to re-evaluate before I put any more bets on.
Pieoftheday
21-06-2018, 18:20
What rubbish, ooh iv bin tackled, I'll go down like I've bin shot in the face and peek through my fingers to see if they're looking whilst rolling around, Zzz zzz.
..
Last two days have been killing me. Too much sitting back when one up. Need to re-evaluate before I put any more bets on.
Lol - that's 'cos you're just blagging it and don't really know what you're doing:eyebrows:
Marco.
I was killing it for the first few days and the last two I've taken a bath. But I didn't pull these predictions out of my ass, I consulted with several people who do know what they are talking about.
They are not gamblers though so I don't think I coached them right to get all the info I needed. This is the first time I've tried this sort of spread betting so I'm fine with making the mistakes and learning from them. All part of the process.
chris@panteg
21-06-2018, 19:39
What a goal by a Modric, super strike, Croatia by far the better team over Argentina.
Yup, a WONDER goal by one of my favourite players in the world - a veritable class act!
And now Croatia have just scored a third!! :yay::yay:
More comment when it's time up...
Marco.
Croats are good players. Can all play.
chris@panteg
21-06-2018, 20:05
A very good side but Argentina were simply woeful! Defenders wondering around with no idea what to do it seems?
Very strange, I expected something better.
chris@panteg
21-06-2018, 20:23
Although Modric was superb, I would pick Rakitic as man of the match constantly menacing the Argentine defence, he could sense the indecision.
But I didn't pull these predictions out of my ass, I consulted with several people who do know what they are talking about.
Fair enough, but had they actually watched any of the teams concerned playing before assisting you with your selections, or were they simply picking who they considered were currently (or historically) the better teams/highest ranked? I suspect the latter...
Without blowing my own trumpet, I know a little about football, as does Grant, so you should've asked us instead! I predicted that Denmark wouldn't beat the Ozzies and that Croatia would cause an upset against Argentina, based on what I'd seen from those teams so far. It was certainly clear to me that this Argentina team weren't at the races.
One to bear in mind next time before you go to the bookies;)
Marco.
Fair enough, but had they actually watched any of the teams concerned playing before assisting you with your selections, or were they simply picking who they considered were currently (or historically) the better teams/highest ranked? I suspect the latter...
.
No, they really do know and watch their football. And the success rate so far has been good, overall. But I'm happy to take on board your predictions. You haven't named your top three slots yet and everyone has played one game now.
Well, what a boob that was from the Argentinian goalkeeper, but beautifully finished by Rebic! And after that, the writing was on the wall for this Argentina side, including a tremendous goal from Modric, culminating in the third from the (similarly superb) Rakitic.... Is there a better midfield duo than those two at this World Cup? For me, no.
Anyway, it was clear after having watched Argentina in their first match against Iceland, where they were marginally less woeful than today, that they would struggle against a very good Croatia side, full of verve and creativity, and that's what happened. Aguero huffed and puffed, but largely did nothing, until he was substituted, and Messi was absent for most of the game.
I acknowledge that he's a quality player, and rated as one of the world's best, rightly so on past performances, but I still feel he's somewhat overrated, and his performances so far in this tournament have simply served to reinforce that notion. I mean, let's be honest here, does anyone really think that he could've laced Maradona's boots? Now he *truly* was a WORLD CLASS player, who pretty much singlehandedly won the World Cup for his country in 1986.
Have we ever seen that type of leadership and ability from Messi, when he plays for Argentina? Not that I've noticed. For me, overall, Ronaldo and Bale are right now ahead of him in the best player in the world stakes, and that's why, coupled with a crap manager who clearly doesn't have much of a clue what he's dong, and disharmony behind the scenes, Argentina will NOT win the World Cup this year - and indeed are instead on the brink of going out.
However, I think they'll beat Nigeria and avoid that fate, but they're not destined to do much after that, unlike Croatia, who for me are, minimum, quarter-finalists and possibly more. I have a soft spot from them because I like how they play football and Del's family are also half-Croatian. Serbia are also a talented side, who could go far in the tournament, but Serbians and Croatians historically don't get on...
Anyway, I'm looking forward to having another look at Brazil tomorrow, and further assessing their credentials as possible winners, along with watching one of my other favourite teams, Iceland. I just love their passion and spirit, and how successful they've been recently for such a small nation. Scotland should take a leaf out of their book! :exactly:
Marco.
No, they really do know and watch their football. And the success rate so far has been good, overall. But I'm happy to take on board your predictions. You haven't named your top three slots yet and everyone has played one game now.
No worries. I'm surprised then that they hadn't noticed what I did with Argentina. Quite simply, after struggling to draw with Iceland, they were an 'accident waiting to happen' against a team like Croatia.
Top 3? Hmm... I'll stick my neck out and say:
Spain
France
Germany.
In that order. I'll stick with that as my 'official prediction', for judgment at the end, but just for fun I may reassess matters as the tournament progresses!:)
Marco.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 07:04
Scotland should take a leaf out of their book!
The problem with the Scotland team is there's too many Scots in it.
Get up to three Scots in a team, and "us against the world" works really well.
Add any more and they start infighting.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 07:07
The thoughts I posted were not mine, by the way, but those of Sir Matt Busby.
Yo, Strats, nice to see you commenting on this thread at last! Would be good to see more input from you here, even if you just pipe up for the England games!;)
Anyway, to your point... I'm not sure infighting has been an issue in recent times, quite simply a lack of quality! However, thankfully, there are signs that things are improving, with a crop of quality youngsters coming through.
Btw, as an aside, are you going to Cranage this weekend?:)
Marco.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 08:01
Carnage?
Probably Saturday. England are playing midday on Sunday, and I don't want to miss that.
Now once upon a time there were loads of Scots players playing in English Teams - I don't see anything like as many as there used to be.
Busby himself played right midfield for Manchester City, and later on Liverpool.
Dennis Law played for City, transferred to United where he became The King of Old Trafford, and transferred back to City for his final season.
My first City game had Willie Donachie at left back - it was City v Liverpool, and it was Bill Shankly's final season as Liverpool manager, and I saw Shanks leading the team off the coach.
Liverpool had more than a few - Dalgleish and Souness being a couple that spring to mind.
If you went around all the teams in the English leagues you'd find Scots just about everywhere, and it's no longer the case.
Changing tack completely - I'm astonished at the shambles that is the current Argentina team, so woeful have their performances been.
Their manager is blaming the lack of success on players not supporting Messi properly - in truth the problem rests squarely on the manager's shoulders. There doesn't appear to be any team unity, and tactically it's all over the place.
Carnage?
Probably Saturday. England are playing midday on Sunday, and I don't want to miss that.
Now once upon a time there were loads of Scots players playing in English Teams - I don't see anything like as many as there used to be.
Busby himself played right midfield for Manchester City, and later on Liverpool.
Dennis Law played for City, transferred to United where he became The King of Old Trafford, and transferred back to City for his final season.
My first City game had Willie Donachie at left back - it was City v Liverpool, and it was Bill Shankly's final season as Liverpool manager, and I saw Shanks leading the team off the coach.
Liverpool had more than a few - Dalgleish and Souness being a couple that spring to mind.
If you went around all the teams in the English leagues you'd find Scots just about everywhere, and it's no longer the case.
Changing tack completely - I'm astonished at the shambles that is the current Argentina team, so woeful have their performances been.
Their manager is blaming the lack of success on players not supporting Messi properly - in truth the problem rests squarely on the manager's shoulders. There doesn't appear to be any team unity, and tactically it's all over the place.
Nice one on Cranage. Then I'll see you there tomorrow:)
I take your point about the Scottish players who used to feature much more regularly for the top teams in England, and that definitely will have had a bearing on things. I think it's also a coaching thing, too.
No way are the players in the Iceland team collectively *that* much better than the Scotland players who didn't manage to qualify for this tournament, but they've been coached/managed in such a way [tactical organisation I believe is the key] that they're able to punch well above their weight, and also highly motivated to do their utmost best for their country - a passion that I think doesn't exist to the same degree when Scotland players take to the pitch.
Anyway, I concur fully with your thoughts on Argentina. It's Uruguay and Brazil who I think will do best for the South American teams, perhaps the former more so than the latter, as although I dislike their rather dour brand of football, it's extremely effective and made for tournaments like this.
As for England, i fully expect them to beat Panama, but think they'll struggle against Belgium. Realistically, the Quarter Finals is their best hope, and that's only if they get a kind draw in the last 16 (and of course they've still got to get there first). They're a very good young side, but for me currently just short of the quality of the best teams in the competition, and of course naturally lacking a little experience.
However, if they can keep this team together and improve further, then I think they'll have a chance of doing really well at the Euros. I like what Southgate's doing with them.
Marco.
Seeing Maradonna with his hankie out made me chuckle:D
Makes up for another incident with a 'hand', eh?;)
Marco.
I mean, let's be honest here, does anyone really think that he could've laced Maradona's boots? Now he *truly* was a WORLD CLASS player, who pretty much singlehandedly won the World Cup for his country in 1986.
I thought you were being ironic, the little cheating B******. Cheats have no place in sport in my opinion.
As for all of this diving, it gets right on my nerves.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 10:28
Last time I saw Messi with a face looking like a slapped arse was at The Etihad :)
chris@panteg
22-06-2018, 10:32
Last time I saw Messi with a face looking like a slapped arse was at The Etihad :)
:lol:
Did you notice Messi just after the national anthem? I've never seen him look so down? Like he's suffering from depression which is no joke BTW, but what's going on here?
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 10:46
:lol:
Did you notice Messi just after the national anthem? I've never seen him look so down? Like he's suffering from depression which is no joke BTW, but what's going on here?
Probably suffering from the general malaise that appears to have settled on the Argentinian side.
Did you see Aguero last night after final whistle?
He is one very unhappy bunny ...
I felt sorry for Willy Caballero - the sliced kick was unfortunate, but such things happen.
as normal, a bunch of individuals intent more on cheating their way rather than using the skill they undoubtedly have as a unit. its their way alas. not proper orginisation from the management too.
I thought you were being ironic, the little cheating B******. Cheats have no place in sport in my opinion.
As for all of this diving, it gets right on my nerves.
I agree, but I seem to remember another (legitimate) goal he scored in that match, where he beat just about the whole England team to score it! That's the kind of skill I was referring to, and which I've NEVER seen so far from Messi, nor am probably ever likely to, as for me he's not in Maradona's footballing league.
Marco.
Looking forward now to watching Brazil vs. Costa Rica, especially seeing how Celtic's Christian Gamboa copes with that Brazil forward line! I expect there to be a few goals in this one... :cool:
Marco.
Now once upon a time there were loads of Scots players playing in English Teams - I don't see anything like as many as there used to be.
Once upon a time, there were loads of English players playing in the English leagues too!!
My personal opinion is that "foreign nationals" should be limited to 2 maybe 3 per team for no other reason than to nuture talented young British Players (I would not include Scotland Wales and NI as Foreign)
Hey Ho just thinking aloud again!!
I love all the AOS armchair World Cup punditry, saves me tuning into the radio or TV! :lol:
The punditry is of a better quality than the TV as well.
Although that's not difficult.
My personal opinion is that "foreign nationals" should be limited to 2 maybe 3 per team for no other reason than to nuture talented young British Players (I would not include Scotland Wales and NI as Foreign)
Hey Ho just thinking aloud again!!
I completely agree, Andy. Indeed, I'd go one further (quite a bit further, actually) and would like to see a UK football team, made up from the respective countries. It's done at the Olympics, so why not football?
Now with the likes of Robertson, Brown, Bale and Ramsey in the team, along with all the England players, that team could well win the World Cup!!
Marco.
I love all the AOS armchair World Cup punditry, saves me tuning into the radio or TV! :lol:
We aim to please, shweety... Just don't think you're joining us in the communal bath afterwards:D
Marco.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 12:37
Once upon a time, there were loads of English players playing in the English leagues too!!
There still are, just not in The Premier League.
Stratmangler
22-06-2018, 12:50
I completely agree, Andy. Indeed, I'd go one further (quite a bit further, actually) and would like to see a UK football team, made up from the respective countries. It's done at the Olympics, so why not football?
Now with the likes of Robertson, Brown, Bale and Ramsey in the team, along with all the England players, that team could well win the World Cup!!
Marco.
The bit in bold doesn't happen because of the SFA, FAW & FANI having objections. And it really doesn't happen at the Olympics because of it.
There still are, just not in The Premier League.
Quite, as an occasional visitor to Turf Moor before they got the promotion, and to Spotland on a more regular basis that's a situation I am well acquainted with LOL but its a fact that not many of the National side get picked from the lower leagues, unfortunately.
The bit in bold doesn't happen because of the SFA, FAW & FANI having objections. And it really doesn't happen at the Olympics because of it.
That says it all... Objected to by FANIs!;)
Personally, I'd love to see it happen.
Marco.
The punditry is of a better quality than the TV as well.
Although that's not difficult.
:thumbsup::pub:
We aim to please, shweety... Just don't think you're joining us in the communal bath afterwards:D
Marco.
I better not drop the soap in the shower either!:lol:
I better not drop the soap in the shower either!:lol:
you'll see who your mates are then ;)
Well, it was the late LATE show from Brazil! Last minute goal from Neymar seals it, after having worn down a resolute Costa Rica side, where Celtic's Gamboa played well, nearly setting up a goal for his team in the first half. I thought Brazil would've won this much easier.
Hopefully that will give both Brazil and Neymar the confidence now to kick on and really show what this team can do. The Brazilians showed great perseverance in this game and kept plugging away until they eventually got their reward against a well-organised Costa Rica defence, once they started to tire late in the game. I've seen this happen time and time again with Celtic!
Anyway, I do like the look of this Brazil side and believe that they could still go all the way. They have all the necessary attributes. I expect their next game against Serbia to be a cracker! Next up, Nigeria vs Iceland - come on you Vikings!!:cool:
Marco.
It might have been won earlier if Neymar stopped practicing for the Oscars and stayed on his feet.
Yeah, that hacks me off with a lot of players. Quite often I don't like Neymar's attitude, as talented as he is. He can act like a spoiled brat, too!
Marco.
There is a distinct lack of respect for the referee in football. Something that needs to change.
chris@panteg
22-06-2018, 17:00
That was a good performance from Nigeria, a totally different team from the game against Croatia, two superb goals.
Iceland kept battling to the end, unfortunate penalty miss by Sigurdsson.
Musa starman.
Yeah, that hacks me off with a lot of players. Quite often I don't like Neymar's attitude, as talented as he is. He can act like a spoiled brat, too!
Marco.
He is a petulant child, albeit with skills.
Magic Musa strikes (twice)! The first one was an absolute cracker...:eek:
Shame for Iceland, as they're one of my 'adopted' teams, but overall especially in the second half, Nigeria deserved to win. The penalty miss from Iceland was the final nail in their coffin, although they kept going to the end and never gave up.
That now gives Argentina some hope, although unless they sort out their problems, Nigeria could very well beat them and put them out of the World Cup. I think Iceland are out now, as I'd expect Croatia to beat them in the final game of the group, even though they're already through to the knockout stages.
Next up, Serbia vs. Switzerland. Could be some goals in this one, too. Will be interesting seeing how good Serbia are, compared with Croatia, and of course Switzerland are no slouches either. I'm a big fan of Shaqiri, so hope he plays well!:cool:
Marco.
He is a petulant child, albeit with skills.
Yeah but don't you just love him because of those skills. The party trick back flick over the guys head worked a treat and was quite brilliant to watch.
Also theres plenty of others play acting not just him.
Yeah but don't you just love him because of those skills. The party trick back flick over the guys head worked a treat and was quite brilliant to watch.
Also theres plenty of others play acting not just him.
Yeah he is Brazil’s talisman for a very good reason. :) Awesome player, for a kid.
Yeah he is Brazil’s talisman for a very good reason. :) Awesome player, for a kid.
New I could convert you Neil, just need to work on Marco now and stop his rather rash comments on the great man. Great w/ k end of football coming up me thinks.
Yeah, I rate him highly, but I've always had an aversion to petulance;)
You don't get any of that pish with Bale....
Marco.
I like the young lad Jesus Great prospect to be best in world in couple of years. I like bale too although a bit injury prone alas. Also young Kane will be best centre forward around if he isn't already
A tremendous game of football, as I predicted, and with some great goals, particularly the one from Switzerland's Xhaka - what a sweet strike!:eek:
However, it was my man, Shaqiri, who won it for the Swiss with an amazing run from the halfway line and a composed finish, to make it 1-2.
Serbia started the game well and deserved to take the lead through Mitrovic, who was superb throughout the match and should've won his team a penalty, after being manhandled [Harry Kane-like] by two Swiss defenders in the box, but the ref decided there was no foul, and VAR wasn't used. Crazy! :doh:
In the second half, Switzerland upped their game and were undoubtedly the better team. You can see why they're a very difficult side to beat and haven't lost many games, as they're well organised, determined/physical and have skillful players in key positions. Serbia are also a good team and possess a significant threat going forward, but when comparing them with Croatia, they're quite a way behind them in overall class.
Anyway, some excellent results today in Group E, which means that the top three teams can all still qualify! Looking forward to seeing Belgium play tomorrow:cool:
Marco.
Yep its all shaping up nicely for the 3rd round of matches next week with many permutations still possible . Interestingly with Nigeria s win today
there s still a chance for the Argies to progress and may even stop Diego Madge from going completely barmy, well for a few days anyway.
New I could convert you Neil, just need to work on Marco now and stop his rather rash comments on the great man. Great w/ k end of football coming up me thinks.
Well, my nieces are half Brazilian. :D
Well, my nieces are half Brazilian. :D
Samba time in Warrington HOO -LALA
Samba time in Warrington HOO -LALA
I have never seen such animated fans! Every pass, every ball...
Minstrel SE
23-06-2018, 11:39
Yep its all shaping up nicely for the 3rd round of matches next week with many permutations still possible . Interestingly with Nigeria s win today
there s still a chance for the Argies to progress and may even stop Diego Madge from going completely barmy, well for a few days anyway.
No way...I didnt see Nigeria as winning anything after their first turn out. They looked like a team who didnt want to be there, mad about bonuses or something.
There can be some surprising results which make the world cup interesting
52 years of hurt...footballs coming home :)
Starting to get the pre-match nerves.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 12:03
Anyone else watching the iPlayer 4k stream? Very good images.
Geoff
Yup - very good indeed, and in terms of the match, all going to plan so far!
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 12:34
only downside is that they spend too much time on wide angle rather than zooming in!
Geoff
It's a whitewash. I thought we'd win this but not so convincingly.
Said not to write off England
Said not to write off England
Haven't done that, but I'm also a realist. They've not played anyone 'serious' yet, albeit they've played very well in both games, *and* bearing in mind that Belgium could only beat Panama 3-0... However, if England beat Belgium 6-1 (or win by any margin), then I'll reassess their World Cup winning chances accordingly! ;)
England's 'enemy' now will be suffering from over-confidence, with all the media hype that will follow, so they have to guard against that. More comment after lunch!:cool:
Marco.
anubisgrau
24-06-2018, 14:47
a very good english squad there. lots of team spirit that missed in previous WCs that ended in disaster. hopefully they will be able to carry the expectations that will erupt after today's show.
Indeed, although as I said earlier, I think they should reevaluate the current qualifying procedure, as it allows through too many 'diddy teams', who add the sum total of ZILCH to the tournament, for anyone but their own fans.
Saudi Arabia
Egypt
Iran
Morocco
South Korea
Panama
Tunisia
They all been UTTER SHITE, whereas I'm almost certain the likes of Italy, Holland, Wales, USA, Ireland and Cameroon, who failed to qualify (and even Scotland), would've added some more quality and entertainment to the competition.
I'm simply not interested in watching teams, whose only concern is trying not to lose. I want to see teams who try to, and crucially, can WIN!
Therefore, I say change the rules in future, so that previous International tournament history and the number of wins and goals during qualification for such, is taken into consideration, in terms of ascertaining who gets to go to the World Cup or Euro finals!!
We need to do something to limit the amount of teams there who simply just want to sit back and defend, and show no urgency or desire to entertain whatsoever.
:exactly:
Marco.
I thought the whole point of the group stage was to weed out those teams? You can't have a world cup that only ever has teams from Europe and South America in it.
Senegal just scored.
I thought the whole point of the group stage was to weed out those teams? You can't have a world cup that only ever has teams from Europe and South America in it.
Indeed, but the [weeding out] system has failed because the teams I've just listed obviously did just enough to qualify, most likely by getting draws and fluking 1-0 wins (I haven't studied their qualifying campaign, so don't know), and as has patently been shown. simply aren't good enough to compete at this level.
That's why I think the criteria for qualification needs to change, to weed out these teams properly. Personally, I don't care which countries are represented, and whether they're from Europe, Asia, America or South Africa - as long as they've been proven as good enough, and so deserve to be there!!
Marco.
getting weak, often developing nations to wc is part of the process of them becoming more aware ... look at many african teams now... japan, usa etc have all benefited from the exposure making the game at home stronger.
Yes, but they need to prove that they're good enough to be at the World Cup finals, not simply be put there as some sort of 'token gesture', simply to try and get them to improve.
Look how crap most of the South African nations have been, for example, and also the others on my list. Personally, I don't think any amount giving them more exposure would turn them into teams good enough to compete at this level, and meanwhile neutrals are forced to watch their dross...
It would certainly help if all the African nations simply amalgamated to become 'South Africa' (or whatever); then they'd have a chance of winning the World Cup! Even when Serbia and Croatia were once just 'Yugoslavia', they were a more potent force. The same would apply to the creation of a British football team, as I mentioned before.
Too much 'watering down' going on, and quantity existing over quality - and that applies to league football, too!
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 16:17
Yes, but they need to prove that they're good enough to be at the World Cup finals, not simply be put there as some sort of 'token gesture', simply to try and get them to improve.
Look how crap most of the South African nations have been, for example, and also the others on my list. Personally, I don't think any amount giving them more exposure would turn them into teams good enough to compete at this level, and meanwhile neutrals are forced to watch their dross...
It would certainly help if all the African nations simply amalgamated to become 'South Africa' (or whatever); then they'd have a chance of winning the World Cup! Even when Serbia and Croatia were once just 'Yugoslavia', they were a more potent force. The same would apply to the creation of a British football team, as I mentioned before.
Too much 'watering down' going on, and quantity existing over quality - and that applies to league football, too!
Marco.
With the exception of Gareth Bale nothing to be added by the creation of a GB side. Scotland used to be a major force but the economics of industry have undermined national sides. The best move for English football would be a quota on the number of English/British players at club level (say 4 or 5 on the pitch at any time as a minimum). Won't happen.
Geoff
I agree wholeheartedly with the latter point (and also sadly that it won't happen), but aside from Bale, I think Robertson, Tierney and Brown, from Scotland, could make a difference in certain games to a GB team.
Plus, who's to say that in future, if better players come into the Wales and Scotland set ups (N.Ireland will mostly always struggle), that they wouldn't be as good as or better than some of the England players?
The other thing too is that a GB team would guarantee that the whole of the UK was behind them, as there would be a valid reason for everyone to genuinely support the team, instead of as it is now, with the Scots, Welsh and Irish feeling that they're obliged to turn into England fans;)
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 16:29
I agree wholeheartedly with the latter point (and also sadly that it won't happen), but aside from Bale, I think Robertson, Tierney and Brown, from Scotland, could make a difference in certain games to a GB team.
Plus, who's to say that in future, if better players come into the Wales and Scotland set ups, that they wouldn't be as good as or better than some of the England players?
The other thing too is that a GB team would guarantee that the whole of the UK was behind them, as there would be a valid reason for everyone to get behind the team, instead of as it is now, with the Scots, Welsh and Irish feeling that they're obliged to turn into England fans;)
Marco.
You underestimate the power of "anyone but England"! :eyebrows:
Lol - but I don't think you'd get many saying 'Anyone but GB';)
Other than at the Eurovision Song Contest!:D
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 16:36
Lol - but I don't think you'd get many saying 'Anyone but GB';)
Other than at the Eurovision Song Contest!:D
Marco.
Really? Ever been to Australia or to a British Lions game? :doh:
not a fan of quota's or fair play finances for that matter. if someone wants to buy a team, then why not; as long as the money isnt to be demanded back when he/they get fed up etc. all it does is ensure the big teams stay at top and the less well off sides stay that way.
quota's put pressures on team selection just as much as too many foreign players do. british players need to step up their game; thats the way to do it.
Really? Ever been to Australia or to a British Lions game? :doh:
Nope, what's it like?:)
Anyway. my point still stands. Bale would instantly (and massively) improve things, and Tierney, Robertson and Brown would undoubtedly strengthen the squad of a GB team. I'd certainly support such a team wholeheartedly, if it ever existed, although it's unlikely.
It might also help educate some rather ignorant 'foreigners', who think that England, and the UK, are one and the same!:doh:
Especially the Americans I've met who think that LONDON is England, and the rest of the country doesn't exist.....
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 16:43
I was working in Botswana during the 1995 RWC and drove down to Pretoria to watch the quarter finals (NZ vs Scotland where Lomu destroyed Gavin Hastings). We watched England versus Australia on the big screen in the ground just before the game began. I don't recall most of the Aussies or Kiwis or Afikaneers for that matter distinguishing between England and Scotland in their "friendly banter". :argument:
not a fan of quota's or fair play finances for that matter/
Sorry mate, don't really know what you mean...
Marco.
I was working in Botswana during the 1995 RWC and drove down to Pretoria to watch the quarter finals (NZ vs Scotland where Lomu destroyed Gavin Hastings). We watched England versus Australia on the big screen in the ground just before the game began. I don't recall most of the Aussies or Kiwis or Afikaneers for that matter distinguishing between England and Scotland in their "friendly banter". :argument:
Are you saying that they were biased against both England and Scotland or what?:)
Marco.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 17:03
Are you saying that they were biased against both England and Scotland or what?:)
Marco.
Exactly! Equal insults for Scots and Poms!
Geoff
Well, hey-ho, that's their problem. I'm sure the English feel similarly towards the Germans! How many here would've been cheering last night's last-minute winner against Sweden?;)
Marco.
An excellent and entertaining game of football, played by two teams trying to WIN, and crucially believing that they could! Valid examples of "weak, developing nations" deserving to be at the finals, simply because both are capable of winning a game and/or scoring some goals, unlike the others I mentioned.
Japan have always been a good team to watch, as they're technically gifted and always like to attack, plus in Keisuke Honda they have a proven goalscorer. I can see one of the teams from the EPL coming in to sign him in the summer.
Senegal undoubtedly also have some quality, especially in Liverpool's Sadio Mané, who for me is world class. They're also a difficult team to beat. Plus, they have the coolest looking manager, in Aliou Cissé! Bet he loves some Bob Marley... Yeah, man...:respect:
Of course, England will meet one of those teams, or possibly Poland or Columbia, in the last 16, depending on who comes out on top in that match coming up next. Of them all, I think Senegal (or Columbia) would give England the hardest game, so they'd probably want to avoid those two, in the last 16 (if Columbia beat Poland).
Marco.
That was an entertaining game.
Sherwood
24-06-2018, 18:17
not a fan of quota's or fair play finances for that matter. if someone wants to buy a team, then why not; as long as the money isnt to be demanded back when he/they get fed up etc. all it does is ensure the big teams stay at top and the less well off sides stay that way.
quota's put pressures on team selection just as much as too many foreign players do. british players need to step up their game; thats the way to do it.
Very few English clubs are serious about youth development anymore and would rather buy in young talent rather than develop it in-house. Southampton is something of an exception but that may come to an end soon too!
Geoff
That was an entertaining game.
Indeed. Somehow I doubt you'll be saying the same about Poland vs. Columbia...
[Wake me up when it's over].
Marco.
Minstrel SE
24-06-2018, 18:38
I had the England game on a half hour buffer and everytime I jumped forward there was another goal on the counter. It was almost surreal and I still think its a dream :)
I missed the Japan game which Im upset about and Columbia have just scored in a bit of a boring game so far
It was a great result, and England played very well indeed (signs that the future with this team looks bright), but as I said earlier I wouldn't get too carried away until they've beaten someone decent.
In that respect, the Belgium game will be the benchmark, which with both teams now having qualified for the knockout stages, I suspect will be a cracker!:)
Marco.
Minstrel SE
24-06-2018, 18:56
Yes Ive been thinking about this new school England team vs the old guard. Just like our policemen they look very young to me :) All the oldies have now been cleared out and it seems to be reaping results. I dont have a short memory with Southgate though and dont think I can ever forgive his clangers :)
As you say the real tests are yet to come. Panama did not ever look like contenders with scrappy play and some disgraceful goings on
Yes Ive been thinking about this new school England team vs the old guard. Just like our policemen they look very young to me :) All the oldies have now been cleared out and it seems to be reaping results. I dont have a short memory with Southgate though and dont think I can ever forgive his clangers :)
Lol... I can appreciate that.
However, as a Scot/Italian his clangers don't really mean much to me, so I'm judging him purely on his managerial ability, which so far, for me, has been excellent - on all levels, especially in respect to man management. He's still got a lot to learn though, but for me it looks like the Allardyce fiasco was a blessing in disguise!
If Im deadly honest they looked fairly competent but not Belgian levels of competence...
Indeed, and when you consider that Belgium (arguably) aren't the best team in the tournament, then that puts into perspective England's chances, right now, of winning it!;)
Panama did not ever look like contenders with scrappy play and some disgraceful goings on
Yup, and it pisses me off. That shit seems to be ingrained into the South American mentality, and it needs outlawed!
Marco.
It is outlawed! They had 2 penalties awarded against them.
Stratmangler
24-06-2018, 19:40
It is outlawed! They had 2 penalties awarded against them.
We should have had a couple of penalties in the Tunisia game, and they were both for multiple wrestling actions in the area.
Today's ref was brave enough to call the wrestling one, and the other was just straight bringing down the player in the box.
The one that you rarely see was the yellow for encroachment - the ref could have filled his book with the names of the remainder of the Panamanian team for that one.
chris@panteg
24-06-2018, 19:43
Blimey Columbia are giving Poland a right royal lesson in how to play football, superb performance, I think England would do well to avoid playing Columbia if they keep playing like this.
We should have had a couple of penalties in the Tunisia game, and they were both for multiple wrestling actions in the area.
Today's ref was brave enough to call the wrestling one, and the other was just straight bringing down the player in the box.
The one that you rarely see was the yellow for encroachment - the ref could have filled his book with the names of the remainder of the Panamanian team for that one.
I agree, It's just that a game where you have 2 penalties awarded to you is probably not the best example to use if you want stricter enforcement of the rules.
No chance of influencing FIFA anyway, unless you've got deep pockets in which case anything is possible.
Stratmangler
24-06-2018, 19:56
The nice thing about today is that England are through to the knockout stage irrespective of how the game goes on Thursday.
I expect Thursday's game to be a tough one, but I have a feeling it's not going be one where the opposition come at us relentlessly.
Martinez has players at his disposal that live and die by the philosophy that attack is the best form of defence, and yet he doesn't set them up to do that, and he doesn't give them free rein to do so either.
It is outlawed! They had 2 penalties awarded against them.
Outlawed would be an instant sending off for any player found guilty of such. That's what needs to happen: a zero tolerance approach to that shit!
Marco.
Blimey Columbia are giving Poland a right royal lesson in how to play football, superb performance, I think England would do well to avoid playing Columbia if they keep playing like this.
Yeah, the game picked up drastically in the second half, although Poland were ATROCIOUS throughout, with their 'star player' Lewandowski posted missing!:doh::rolleyes:
Columbia, however, clearly have some talented players in their personnel, not least of which is Falcao [namesake of the famous Brazilian] and Cuadrado, together with a style of playi that is very effective, based on dynamic, accurate passing and a well-organised defence. They remind me of a slightly more entertaining Uruguay!
And yes, England would do very well to avoid them in the last 16, as I think they'd be dangerous opponents.
Marco.
The nice thing about today is that England are through to the knockout stage irrespective of how the game goes on Thursday.
Yes, that must be a nice feeling for a change! However, the LAST thing you'd want now is to get cuffed by Belgium and then go into the next match with a sense of trepidation, as the pressure then would almost certainly be back on...
England have be clever against Belgium, and for me, simply ensure that they don't lose.
In that respect, the main focus shouldn't initially be on trying to win the group (although having said that, if during the game against Belgium there's a point where the opportunity presents itself, then go for it), but instead on, first and foremost, ensuring that they take a positive result and performance into the next match, which of course is the most important one.
In that respect, don't risk playing anyone already on a yellow card, as any suspensions to key players could prove fatal, and don't be tempted to give fringe players a game, just because technically there is nothing to lose.
Therefore, aside from those on a yellow card, and Dele Alli, whom I wouldn't be rushing back yet from injury, and instead saving for the next game, I'd play the same team that started today against Panama, save perhaps from Sterling, who for me isn't quite 'at it', and whom I'd replace with Rashford, as I think he's just bursting to score a special goal!
Marco.
Stratmangler
24-06-2018, 21:08
By all accounts Kevin de Bruyne was the unsung hero for Belgium yesterday, released to play a less deep position than the one he was earlier shackled to.
He was pulling strings and assisting players that got credited with assisting goals.
I've seen plenty of the precision passing he did during the league season to see what he's capable of. Some of it was outrageous and breathtaking.
Job number one is to break down the KdB supply line, which ain't gonna be easy.
Ninanina
24-06-2018, 23:20
We should have had a couple of penalties in the Tunisia game, and they were both for multiple wrestling actions in the area.
Today's ref was brave enough to call the wrestling one, and the other was just straight bringing down the player in the box.
My thoughts exactly Chris
I watched the game against Tunisia and thought I was watching a game of rugby :doh:
Bet you'd soon sort out all those bad boys, eh Bev?:eyebrows:;)
Marco.
Ninanina
24-06-2018, 23:23
Bet you'd soon sort out all those bad boys, eh Bev?:eyebrows:;)
Marco.
Absolutely Marco... I'd have given them a slap... :eek:
With a wet cucumber, on the backs of their shorts?:eyebrows:
Marco.
Ninanina
24-06-2018, 23:35
With a wet cucumber, on the backs of their shorts?:eyebrows:
Marco.
Of course....
http://i.imgur.com/8P6RiVK.jpg (https://imgur.com/8P6RiVK)
Lol.... Put another ball next to that one, and the image becomes something else!:eyebrows:
Marco.
Ninanina
24-06-2018, 23:40
Lol.... Put another ball next to that one, and the image becomes something else!:eyebrows:
Marco.
:rfl: ooops
Good game and not surprised by this result, because as I've said before, Uruguay have all the tools necessary to go far in this competition: a well-organised and resolute defence, creative and hard-tackling midfield and they carry a threat up front, with one (arguably two) world-class strikers. I can easily see them getting to the semi-finals, and possibly further.
Russia were simply shown up for their lack of quality where it counts, against much more challenging and better opposition than they played in their first two games, where they responded well to fan frenzy and being the host nation, but were made to look better than they really are. I just hope the same doesn't happen to England against Belgium, and they don't receive a similar reality check.
In that respect, it's important that they don't get carried away with the media hype and just take one game at a time!:)
Marco.
Sherwood
25-06-2018, 17:59
Of course....
http://i.imgur.com/8P6RiVK.jpg (https://imgur.com/8P6RiVK)
I thought at first this may be the hand drawn design for your Maggie stands! :doh:
Ninanina
25-06-2018, 23:54
I thought at first this may be the hand drawn design for your Maggie stands! :doh:
Not exactly Geoff... :rfl:
chris@panteg
26-06-2018, 12:24
Will it happen for Messi tonight ? I have a feeling it just might , Argentina need to start well though .
Nigeria ,not sure about them ? Very capable ,they just have to go for it , hoping for a cracking game with plenty of goals .
I think Iceland will give it everything tonight against Croatia , should be a good game .
Hope it does happen for Messi tonight. Yep another fascinating evening of games ahead tonight with everything poised on a knife edge with varies permutations
still possible. Surely Argies will improve on last 2 matches and snatch a last gasp place in the round of 16.
Sherwood
27-06-2018, 16:07
As predicted, another disastrous Russian campaign for Germany!
Geoff
always start poorly, but this time didnt improve. sweden and mexico were best sides
Yup, Germany were shite today and have been shite since day 1 of this tournament! I also predicted that they wouldn't win it this time, but thought they'd have got much further.
However, I have to say that, as a neutral (non-England fan) watching that game on the BBC, the level of bias shown towards Germany, both in the commentary box, from giggling-girl, Jonathan Pearce, who simply couldn't contain his glee, in the most cringe-worthy way imaginable, and Gary Lineker, with his waving and smiling 'Auf Wiedersehen' parting shot, at the end of the programme, was disgraceful:rolleyes:
When will the blatantly biased ENGLISH pundits and commentators get it into thick heads that not everyone watching at home is an England fan, holding a grudge against Germany, due to the history between both teams??
I couldn't give a flying FUCK about that, and nor I'm sure could any other the 1000s of Scots, Welsh and Irish football fans watching, who don't want to hear that pish. All we wanted was neutral commentary, free from ridiculous English axe-grinding.
Do these idiots not realise that such shameful gloating only makes the rest of us, who aren't English, wish that next time England play Germany, they get ROYALLY PUMPED, and moreover hope that Belgium do it to them tomorrow?:doh:
I give up, as it's the same old, same old......... <RANT OVER>... for now!
Marco.
Sherwood
27-06-2018, 16:41
Yup, they were shite today and have been shite since day 1! I also predicted that they wouldn't win it this time, but thought they'd have got much further.
However, I have to say that, as a neutral (non-England fan) watching that game on the BBC, the level of bias shown towards Germany, both in the commentary box, from Jonathan Pearce, who simply couldn't contain his glee, in the most cringe-worthy way imaginable, and Gary Lineker, with his waving and smiling 'Auf Wiedersehen' parting shot, at the end of the programme, was disgraceful:rolleyes:
When will the blatantly biased ENGLISH pundits and commentators get it into thick heads that not everyone watching at home is an England fan, holding a grudge against Germany, due to the history between both teams??
I couldn't give a FUCK about that, and nor I'm sure could any other the 1000s of Scots, Welsh and Irish football fans watching, who don't want to hear that pish. All we want is neutral commentary, free from ridiculous English axe-grinding.
Do these idiots not realise that such blatant bias and shameful gloating only makes the rest of us, who aren't English, wish that next time England play Germany, they get ROYALLY PUMPED, and moreover hope that Belgium do it to them tomorrow?:doh:
I give up, as it's the same old, same old......... <RANT OVER>... for now!
Marco.
Schadenfreude, moi? :goodbye:
they waltzed it in the summer of 41:D
Schadenfreude, moi? :goodbye:
Lol - well that's fine. You're an England fan, so I can appreciate that and you're entitled to it, but you're not a commentator or TV pundit, who should be professional enough to know better!!
They should've saved their gloating for behind the scenes afterwards. Doing it in public simply sends out the wrong message - and one that England might live to regret.
Marco.
they waltzed it in the summer of 41:D
You must know what I'm talking about though, Grant.
How do you think the Scots footy fans where you are would've reacted to that ridiculous commentary and Lineker's antics afterwards? I know my mates up there will be as livid about it as I am. If they'd done that to anyone else but Germany, there would've been an outrage.
Well...The 'Anyone But England' t-shirts will be out in force now!
Marco.
Sherwood
27-06-2018, 17:04
Lol - well that's fine. You're an England fan, so I can appreciate that, but you're not a commentator or TV pundit, who should be professional enough to know better!!!
Marco.
Whilst I can appreciate the skills of other teams, surely much of the attraction of football in general and the World Cup in particular is seeing old rivals getting stuffed by more lowly teams. Football is a tribal game and always will be. As to the "bias" of the English pundits, I am guessing you are not that familiar with other broadcasting networks worldwide. Many if not most love to see England beaten. Have you forgotten this from politically correct Norway? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqZTP8-8wIs
Geoff
As predicted, another disastrous Russian campaign for Germany!
Geoff
LOL
Another tenner down the drain for me. Useless bastards.
You must know what I'm talking about though, Grant.
How do you think the Scots footy fans where you are would've reacted to that ridiculous commentary and Lineker's antics afterwards? I know my mates up there will be as angered about it as I am. If they'd done that to anyone else but Germany, there would've been an outrage.
Well...The 'Anyone But England' t-shirts will be out in force now!
Marco.
not seen it but can imagine the pathetic bigotry oozing out.... I dont mind a joke etc but pure bigotry, if thats what they did, they should be kicked out. if it had been an african nation there would be calls of racism. i dont see the difference
Whilst I can appreciate the skills of other teams, surely much of the attraction of football in general and the World Cup in particular is seeing old rivals getting stuffed by more lowly teams. Football is a tribal game and always will be. As to the "bias" of the English pundits, I am guessing you are not that familiar with other broadcasting networks worldwide. Many if not most love to see England beaten. Have you forgotten this from politically correct Norway? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqZTP8-8wIs
Yes, but as a Scots/Italian, I couldn't give a toss!! All I want, and think I should be entitled to as a license fee payer, is professional behaviour, from supposed broadcasting professionals, during coverage of this World Cup. The Norwegian guy was just as bad.
So do you think the behaviour today of the BBC pundits and commentators will have helped the issue of folk wanting to see England get beaten?
Btw, just to be 100% clear, my comments here are directed SOLELY at the BBC commentators and pundits, not ordinary England fans, including those here, who have every right to gloat!
As a sports broadcaster, it's simply about being 100% professional, which those today on the BBC most certainly weren't.
Marco
not seen it but can imagine the pathetic bigotry oozing out.... I dont mind a joke etc but pure bigotry, if thats what they did, they should be kicked out. if it had been an african nation there would be calls of racism. i dont see the difference
EXACTLY!!! Disgraceful and distasteful BIGOTRY is precisely what it was! Makes me puke.... I'll see if someone's posted something on YouTube.
Marco.
It's traditional. Germany are a special case and everyone knows that.
Remember when we beat them 5-1? We were celebrating for a week.
I think it all goes back to the war when they had that whole 'master race' thing going on. Same as everyone wants to see the English get beaten because of the Empire and all that, except with the Germans it's just a special thing for the English, no-one else cares. And it's only a bit of fun anyway, it's breaking balls, it's English humour. You don't imagine anyone really takes it seriously do you?
It's traditional. Germany are a special case and everyone knows that.
Remember when we beat them 5-1? We were celebrating for a week.
Is that the royal "we", Martin? :rolleyes:
You've just neatly highlighted the problem!
Marco.
This handy Wikipedia article explains it all: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/England–Germany_football_rivalry
Since World War II, Britain has considered itself a rival to Germany in many areas, such as automobile production, naval forces, trade and economy[35]—this rivalry has also permeated into football.
English football fans often deem Germany to be their traditional football rival and care more about this rivalry than those with other countries, such as Scotland or Argentina. In the run-up to any football match against Germany, many English tabloids publish articles that contain references to the Second World War, such as calling their opposition derogatory terms such as "krauts" or "hun".[36]
Two days before the UEFA Euro 1996 semifinal, The Daily Mirror published an article on its front page that ran with the headline "Achtung! Surrender!": another reference to the war.[37]
After the 5–1 victory over Germany in 2001, the English news media were ecstatic. The Sunday Mirror drew more comparisons to World War II, by running an article about the game on the front page under the headline "BLITZED".[38]
And of course:
in the BBC television series Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?, the character Terry remarks that 14 June 1970, the day that England lost 3–2 to West Germany, should be "indelibly printed on every true Englishman's mind".[44][45]
Is that the royal "we", Martin? :rolleyes:
You've just neatly highlighted the problem!
Marco.
'We' as in 'The English'.
So why, as a Scot, and a BBC license fee payer, should I be subjected to it? I'm not the slightest bit interested in age-old English football rivalries, during coverage of a World Cup football match!
Marco.
shouldnt have player Neuer and should have taken Sane and played him. he is a crackin' player. Neuer has been injured and not the player he was.
It will give many sides confidence tho.....doesnt excuse the commentators etc tho. What happened to the bbc's position on bias ;)
I'm not interested in the tennis, I pay the license fee, should I have to be subjected to it?
I know what you're saying but the England fans want to see the English pundits passionate about England winning. And given the English pundits are all former England players, it is unsurprising that they are. It's how it has always been, it isn't a new thing for this world cup.
Sherwood
27-06-2018, 17:44
shouldnt have player Neuer and should have taken Sane and played him. he is a crackin' player. Neuer has been injured and not the player he was.
It will give many sides confidence tho.....doesnt excuse the commentators etc tho. What happened to the bbc's position on bias ;)
The BBC is the national broadcaster. It's mandate for impartiality covers politics, religion and gender: not football. I thought the pundits were quite restrained given Germany's dismal performance, but I see nothing wrong in their pro-English perspective.
I would worry if they were biased against the other home nations, but that is not relevant in this competition!
Geoff
I know what you're saying but the England fans want to see the English pundits passionate about England winning. And given the English pundits are all former England players, it is not unsurprising that they are. It's how it has always been, it isn't a new thing for this world cup.
So, are you saying it's only they who matter, and that no-one else viewing should be given similar consideration? Do you think it was only England fans who were watching the match?
Indeed, sadly it's the way it's always been, but that doesn't make it right!
Marco.
The BBC is the national broadcaster. It's mandate for impartiality covers politics, religion and gender: not football. I thought the pundits were quite restrained given Germany's dismal performance, but I see nothing wrong in their pro-English perspective.
No, you wouldn't, would you, because you're English!!:doh: ;)
Marco.
Yup, Germany were shite today and have been shite since day 1 of this tournament! I also predicted that they wouldn't win it this time, but thought they'd have got much further.
However, I have to say that, as a neutral (non-England fan) watching that game on the BBC, the level of bias shown towards Germany, both in the commentary box, from giggling-girl, Jonathan Pearce, who simply couldn't contain his glee, in the most cringe-worthy way imaginable, and Gary Lineker, with his waving and smiling 'Auf Wiedersehen' parting shot, at the end of the programme, was disgraceful:rolleyes:
When will the blatantly biased ENGLISH pundits and commentators get it into thick heads that not everyone watching at home is an England fan, holding a grudge against Germany, due to the history between both teams??
I couldn't give a flying FUCK about that, and nor I'm sure could any other the 1000s of Scots, Welsh and Irish football fans watching, who don't want to hear that pish. All we wanted was neutral commentary, free from ridiculous English axe-grinding.
Do these idiots not realise that such shameful gloating only makes the rest of us, who aren't English, wish that next time England play Germany, they get ROYALLY PUMPED, and moreover hope that Belgium do it to them tomorrow?:doh:
I give up, as it's the same old, same old......... <RANT OVER>... for now!
Marco.
+1 Couldn't agree more Marco. Our local radio station in Toronto rebroadcasts BBC 5, and I could barely listen to them today. Not sure if I'll tune in to much more of this WC. The BS meter is off the charts.
I miss hockey :(
EDIT: re. English broadcasters being impartial, perhaps some of you were not aware that the BBC broadcasts are picked up by networks all around the world. I think that fact alone should demand impartiality... i.e. other countries are paying (partly) their wages and rent.
Indeed, Svend, and some folk wonder why we want independence!! :doh:
Marco.
So, are you saying it's only they who matter, and that no-one else viewing should be given similar consideration? Do you think it was only England fans who were watching the match?
Indeed, sadly it's the way it's always been, but that doesn't make it right!
Marco.
If Scotland had also qualified and there were some ex Scotland players as pundits getting a bit passionate about Scotland winning a couple, would you complain? What if next time Scotland qualify and we don't? All Scottish punditry, will you want them to pretend to be neutral? All the way through?
If Scotland won the world cup man they'd be swinging from the light fittings and you'd be going so crazy you wouldn't even notice.
Indeed, Svend, and some folk wonder why we want independence!! :doh:
Marco.
I hear you! :D
Time for a pint...sigh... :cool:
If Scotland had also qualified and there were some ex Scotland players as pundits getting a bit passionate about Scotland winning a couple, would you complain? What if next time Scotland qualify and we don't? All Scottish punditry, will you want them to pretend to be neutral? All the way through?
If Scotland won the world cup man they'd be swinging from the light fittings and you'd be going so crazy you wouldn't even notice.
england were not playing tho. not even in same group. as germany were outplayed by the other 3 sides most of time they were not so much of a threat.
Its just common decency quite frankly. as svend says these games are beamed all over the world with such attitudes, its no wonder britain is classed as a leper.
If Scotland had also qualified and there were some ex Scotland players as pundits getting a bit passionate about Scotland winning a couple, would you complain? What if next time Scotland qualify and we don't? All Scottish punditry, will you want them to pretend to be neutral? All the way through?
If Scotland won the world cup man they'd be swinging from the light fittings and you'd be going so crazy you wouldn't even notice.
That's not what it's about, Martin, and I note you neatly avoided answering the questions in my previous post... Let's just call it the EBC, not the BBC, because in reality that's what it is!
To answer your question, such blatant pro-Scotland bias, on a TV channel being broadcast to the whole of BRITAIN (which let's not forget is made up of FOUR different countries, each with their own fiercely independent and patriotic football fans), not just in Scotland, would be just as bad, and I'd have every sympathy for all the England fans watching feeling the same way I did about what happened earlier.
Read Svend's comments, and if doesn't hit home how everyone else in the world, who isn't English, feels about this nonsense, and has done for years, then it never will. I'm afraid that when it comes to this sort of stuff, no other country knows how to make enemies around the world better than England!:rolleyes:
Marco.
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