World Cup 2026

[HVC]

Even Haiti's revolution against France was inspired by the French revolution

[Syt]

Chancellor Merz pushed back that the federal government should do more about addressing effects of climate change (pushing it onto the states and local governments) or that it should be "Chefsache" (i.e. priority topic handled by the head honcho); he "apologized" to a cancer patient who questioned his health policies and who he replied to rather insensitively by sending her an autographed photo of his ... and about the German defeat he tweeted: "Even though elimination hurts: What a game! With your commitment and team spirit at this World Cup, you have thrilled our country. We are proud of you."

Which created another backlash with "Which game?" trending. He later added "We celebrate our successes together. And in defeat, we stand together. That makes us strong. Whoever wears the eagle on their chest deserves our support, not our ridicule." Which didn't help much, because the damage was done. Satirical site Postillon wrote: "Merz explains his praise tweet for the national team: I certainly have empathy for millionaires."

Let's just say, he's not a Great Communicator.

[Valmy]

Although in same ways Paraguay is the France of Latin America. The first leader of Paraguay was deeply inspired by the Rousseau, Robespierre and Napoleon becoming first the Consul and then the Supreme and Perpetual Dictator of Paraguay (I'm fairly sure there's a Vargas Llosa novel about him). And Paraguay, its military led by the Marshals of Paraguay, later decided to declare on most of its neighbours: Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay at once (which was absolutely devastating).

Even aside from the underdog element I've weirdly actually been to Paraguay for a very few short days so have a bit of a soft spot for them (although France is better as a tourist destination ).

Weren't all the independence movements in South America inspired by the French Revolution to some degree?

Well that and they were directly caused by Napoleon invading Spain.

[Sheilbh]

Fair.

So annoyed the Mexico game was too late for me. Looks great and the Axteca playing its role.

Also I have a real soft spot for Jimenez so pleased he's doing well.

[Josquius]

I'm totally missing all these second round games. First one is too early as busy with kids and second is too late.

[crazy canuck]

Canada and Mexico advanced. Fuck we better win tomorrow.

While I like you personally , trumps America cannot see victory, sorry. May you feel sorrow that exceeds Italy's. 

Yeah, the world doesn't need to see more defend the homeland posters

[crazy canuck]

Fair.

So annoyed the Mexico game was too late for me. Looks great and the Axteca playing its role.

Also I have a real soft spot for Jimenez so pleased he's doing well.

If you get a chance, watch the replay. That first half was really fun.  And the first half of the first half (the pre-hydration break period of the game?) was the most energetic I have ever seen in a World Cup match. 

[Sheilbh]

Half the office have already left "to make sure they get a table" in the pub to watch the England game in several hours time.

[HVC]

I can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico   

[mongers]

I can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico   

I'll go with the usual, they'll defeat themselves. 

[mongers]

Half the office have already left "to make sure they get a table" in the pub to watch the England game in several hours time.

Presumably the football bollocks punditry as already started?

[HVC]

I can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico   

I'll go with the usual, they'll defeat themselves. 

I think Mexico will be more heart wrenching   

[Zanza]

Chancellor Merz pushed back that the federal government should do more about addressing effects of climate change (pushing it onto the states and local governments) or that it should be "Chefsache" (i.e. priority topic handled by the head honcho); he "apologized" to a cancer patient who questioned his health policies and who he replied to rather insensitively by sending her an autographed photo of his ... and about the German defeat he tweeted: "Even though elimination hurts: What a game! With your commitment and team spirit at this World Cup, you have thrilled our country. We are proud of you."

Which created another backlash with "Which game?" trending. He later added "We celebrate our successes together. And in defeat, we stand together. That makes us strong. Whoever wears the eagle on their chest deserves our support, not our ridicule." Which didn't help much, because the damage was done. Satirical site Postillon wrote: "Merz explains his praise tweet for the national team: I certainly have empathy for millionaires."

Let's just say, he's not a Great Communicator.

He is terrible, not just in his communication.

[HVC]

 

[Norgy]

Crikey!