Figured we should have a separate thread for the occasion.
Sloppy play on that goal.
ITV commentary :lol:
"Hate to say it but that was a good foul.."
"Oh red card!"
"Well it wasnae that good."
I thought the friendly games , sparring partner-style, had ended before the WC. :P
South Africa won't win the Cup, that's for sure.
Let's see if that red card is worth the goals differential.
Well congrats Mexico
Favourite video today. Lots of Nigerian internet is very anti-South Africa. But taking it to another level, Nigeria didn't qualify - there's a group of English Nigerians who travelled to Mexico to support Mexico and hate-watch South Africa :lol:
And here they are lol
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZdLA1SJg9S
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSDn_7KbSZI3uMRiVdtAKGYY6EPQmNschCyWpQOCokpRIZLKkt-5RS62oqB&s=10)
16 years on it seems we are finally free of the vuvuzellas.
What a missed chance.
I also like the time waste countdown.
South Korea beats the Czech Republic, deservedly. The Czech goal might easily have been VAR-ed out, in my opinion. Hospital defending on SK's second goal, but SK is a very good team.
The pass in South Africa's defence before Mexico breaks on 1-0 is so poor you'd rarely see it at this level. :blink:
Three Mexican players surround SA's last defender. And, the goalkeeping is not stellar either.
And so the Berlin Olympics 1936 are off.
The kick off times are horrible for a Norwegian. Like 4 am, midnight and the more reasonable 9 pm. My cortisol levels will be: Off the charts by mid-July.
Quote from: Norgy on June 11, 2026, 11:53:02 PMSouth Korea beats the Czech Republic, deservedly. The Czech goal might easily have been VAR-ed out, in my opinion. Hospital defending on SK's second goal, but SK is a very good team.
A lot of Koreans I've talked to don't seem very confident, but I think they have their best chance since they hosted back in 2002.
I have a soft spot for Korea, despite their knack for knocking out Portugal :P They were the better team, but they wasted chances and against better teams then the Czechs that'll cost them. But with this win there's good odds they get out of the group. I don't see this Czech team beating Mexico.
And while I don't think it'll happen, if Korea beats Mexico it'll be funny to see Mexico's reaction since they currently like Korea because they knocked out Germany.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 12, 2026, 12:51:00 AMQuote from: Norgy on June 11, 2026, 11:53:02 PMSouth Korea beats the Czech Republic, deservedly. The Czech goal might easily have been VAR-ed out, in my opinion. Hospital defending on SK's second goal, but SK is a very good team.
A lot of Koreans I've talked to don't seem very confident, but I think they have their best chance since they hosted back in 2002.
I'm thinking Japan might go far this time. Although I just read their captain is out.
That wasn't very good.
Saw some of the England warm ups too. Which yes disclaimer they're warm ups.
But... Really makes me think whether even all else aside climate change is rendering the world cup quite dead.
Certainly summer world cups in hot countries seem a bad idea
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 12, 2026, 12:51:00 AMQuote from: Norgy on June 11, 2026, 11:53:02 PMSouth Korea beats the Czech Republic, deservedly. The Czech goal might easily have been VAR-ed out, in my opinion. Hospital defending on SK's second goal, but SK is a very good team.
A lot of Koreans I've talked to don't seem very confident, but I think they have their best chance since they hosted back in 2002.
Coming back from going one down, undeservedly, shows strength of character and spirit. Aside from skill and tactical acumen, those two can get teams far.
I only watched the first half of Mexico vs. South Africa. Didn't really grab me. I hadn't watched in a while, so I wasn't aware of the "hydration break". :D It makes sense and is obviously great for the players. Though I can't help wonder if they shouldn't just divide the game into quarters then, with those hydration breaks turning into small breaks like between full time and extra time during the knock out stage.
Like the time out rule. German commentator mentioned that it would probably not really come into play in the opening match, but "that with the expansion of the field of participating countries the quality of play might be quite uneven" during the group stage. :D
He also had a snarky comment about Infantino when he presented the trophy during the opening. "I thought it was only supposed to be touched by hands that actually won the trophy, but may that's just another tradition that's being done away with." (Not sure if that was ever in informal rule - it's hard to imagine, actually, especially if maybe a head of state awards the trophy to the team at the end - but it made me chuckle.)
Quote from: Norgy on June 12, 2026, 01:53:20 AMQuote from: jimmy olsen on June 12, 2026, 12:51:00 AMQuote from: Norgy on June 11, 2026, 11:53:02 PMSouth Korea beats the Czech Republic, deservedly. The Czech goal might easily have been VAR-ed out, in my opinion. Hospital defending on SK's second goal, but SK is a very good team.
A lot of Koreans I've talked to don't seem very confident, but I think they have their best chance since they hosted back in 2002.
Coming back from going one down, undeservedly, shows strength of character and spirit. Aside from skill and tactical acumen, those two can get teams far.
Unsurprisingly, the Czechia-Korea in Guadalajara game was not sold out. :P High prices and all that jazz :P.
P-S: drinking game idea.
Every time a commentator mispronounces or struggles with Guadalajara, have a shot or a drink. Won't work for Hispanics though.
Will work wonders in Scandinavia. :Embarrass:
God dammit
The Bosnians don't look like the lower ranked team
The Canadian side got a lot of practice taking corners-silver lining?
Enjoyable game and good atmosphere but what a dreadful stadium
Quote from: Gups on June 12, 2026, 02:57:09 PMEnjoyable game and good atmosphere but what a dreadful stadium
It's fake. It's a 30k seat stadium temporarily expanded to 45k for the WC.
Quote from: Gups on June 12, 2026, 02:57:09 PMEnjoyable game and good atmosphere but what a dreadful stadium
It's a CFL stadium
So close
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2026, 03:10:18 PMQuote from: Gups on June 12, 2026, 02:57:09 PMEnjoyable game and good atmosphere but what a dreadful stadium
It's fake. It's a 30k seat stadium temporarily expanded to 45k for the WC.
Even pre face-lift it's still not the best. Fun atmosphere for MLS games though.
Great game for the neutral. Canada don't deserve to be losing
So we're back to the number 1 objective is to score a goal.
God awful sport when you take for a side.
Gooooooooal
Wooo
:showoff:
Not a red?
Would have preferred a different result, but better then a loss.
Quote from: HVC on June 12, 2026, 03:58:40 PMWould have preferred a different result, but better then a loss.
I think second half canada was a chance against the Swiss, and definitely Qatar. However watching their air game leaves me as anxious as I was in 2004 with portugal :lol:
BBC host ended their broadcast with saying Bosnian fans were "in full throat until they got hit by a bit of Larin-gitis" :bleeding:
Fun game though.
Since 2006 Shakira has had more world cup appearances than Italy :lmfao:
America is better in their front 1/3 than I expected. Or Paraguay is worse.
Like 94, a USA hosted World Cup forces FIFA to evolve quickly.
Is US a lot better than we thought, or is Paraguay a lot worse?
I find The Soccer Guy sometimes hilarious. Here is his take from the USMNT win.
QuoteAs expected, USA kick the Para Guys' sorry Mexican asses real good as soccer finally comes home, dropping bombs of soccer awesomeness like the president just launched a headline-grabbing operation overseas to make everyone quit talking about the questionable things he's been up to.
USMNT instantly begun to go dominize, with Christian Pulisic and Poncho Tino's offence guys asking a bunch of questions of the deefense. And the answers, my friends, was blowin' in the wind for Bobadylan, who inserted the negative equity goalshot into the SGI.
The Para Guys sucked real bad, and were kinda lucky when the denial flag denied Folarin Balogun another goalshot. Too bad for the Mexicans, Balogun did double the lead real soon after. And in overtime at the end of the first quarter, he doubled it again to make it 3 to 0 when he found the upper 90, ending the contest before the halftime show.
With the W confirmized, Poncho Tino called Balogun to the subshack in the second quarter. Even though the Para Guys made the constipation insertion, Gio Reyna made it 4 to 1 after the overtime verdict tablet erection.
SOCCER. IS. HOME.
He's moved from X to Facebook, by the way.
England's kit has been stolen https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jun/13/england-world-cup-boots-stolen-before-first-training-session-in-kansas-city
How bad is this? Will they end up limping around the pitch in badly-fitting boots bought from Walmart or is it not a big deal?
I reckon they have plenty of backup kit ready to be delivered.
Although the training sesh might be bad. FIFA have of course implemented strict rules as to what brands can be used and when and where national team sponsors can be visible (as in mostly not at all).
On a different note, Alexi Lalas has become a small hero of mine after calling James Corden "a full kit wanker" on US television. :lol:
:lol:
Well he's not wrong there :bowler:
Yanks triggered because a Yank used a somewhat British-connoted word? :bowler:
Corden is dressed in US full kit for the commercial for his WC show on US television, and, well full kit wanker is rather fitting.
Quote from: Norgy on June 13, 2026, 05:14:31 AMI reckon they have plenty of backup kit ready to be delivered.
Although the training sesh might be bad. FIFA have of course implemented strict rules as to what brands can be used and when and where national team sponsors can be visible (as in mostly not at all).
On a different note, Alexi Lalas has become a small hero of mine after calling James Corden "a full kit wanker" on US television. :lol:
I've seen a lot of commentary on this.
Mostly around the ridiculousness of Lalas (played at the bottom of serie a for one season. Mostly famous for a daft beard and haircut) being on there with Zlatan (top tier professional) and Henry (all time XI squad member).
On one hand that was probably our best WC game since 2002. Balogun is a god.
On the other...fuck if we do too well Donald Trump and his goons are going to try to make hay with it. Fortunately most of his supporters hate soccer on principle.
Well, 1-1 Switzerland-Qatar.
The Swiss had lots of chances but the Qatari goal keeper kept them alive.
Iron Law of football so the Qatari squad ties up the game in the stoppage time.
Hmm, i think a 1-0 reault would have been better for canada.
Quote from: HVC on June 13, 2026, 04:05:40 PMHmm, i think a 1-0 reault wouldnhave been better for canada.
not really....a draw is best...Group wide open.
Now if--obviously if--we can beat Qatar (and I'm not saying that's a given); but if we do, then we control our destiny. If Swiss won, then first place in the group would be tough.
But then a second spot would be easier, wouldn't it? Now everyones at the same spot. First round basically doesn't matter now. The third spot passing through gets to complicated :lol:
Lovely goal - and Morocco have looked better so far.
Quote from: HVC on June 13, 2026, 04:18:23 PMBut then a second spot would be easier, wouldn't it? Now everyones at the same spot. First round basically doesn't matter now. The third spot passing through gets to complicated :lol:
It matters the same amount has before.
I grew up during a golden age of Brazil and I always expect them to still show that greatness, but they never do. And while Morocco aren't exactly push overs Brazil played the first half of this game like a group of players that never played with eachother before.
*edit* not that they're horrible overall, and they usually at least make it the the quarter finals or something, but it's just not the same. Maybe I'm just old and grumpy :lol:
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 13, 2026, 06:32:27 PMQuote from: HVC on June 13, 2026, 04:18:23 PMBut then a second spot would be easier, wouldn't it? Now everyones at the same spot. First round basically doesn't matter now. The third spot passing through gets to complicated :lol:
It matters the same amount has before.
Yeah, but before I expected them to beat Qatar, and now I don't know :P
Now that I've seen Qatar and the Swiss play, I think that if the Canadian side plays the same way it did in the second half against Bosnia they can win out.
If
Quote from: Valmy on June 13, 2026, 10:26:27 AMOn one hand that was probably our best WC game since 2002. Balogun is a god.
On the other...fuck if we do too well Donald Trump and his goons are going to try to make hay with it. Fortunately most of his supporters hate soccer on principle.
I saw a clip of one of the US broadcast team getting a little overexcited and calling the first half the best half of soccer ever played at a World Cup. I will be generous and imply that he meant by an American side.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2026, 07:24:02 PMNow that I've seen Qatar and the Swiss play, I think that if the Canadian side plays the same way it did in the second half against Bosnia they can win out.
If
Canada has trouble scoring, and Qatar are going to be tough to break down. IF Canada can score early, then that changes, so an early goal is key.
CC, you going to any games in Vancouver?
Quote from: Josephus on June 13, 2026, 07:28:04 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2026, 07:24:02 PMNow that I've seen Qatar and the Swiss play, I think that if the Canadian side plays the same way it did in the second half against Bosnia they can win out.
If
Canada has trouble scoring, and Qatar are going to be tough to break down. IF Canada can score early, then that changes, so an early goal is key.
CC, you going to any games in Vancouver?
No, way too expensive for somebody who doesn't know enough about soccer to get the full value of those damn expensive tickets live. Besides this way, I get to chat with you guys while I'm watching the games.
Mrs. CC he's going to take in the viewing parties here on the North Shore. But I don't think it's going to be very accessible for me so I will just watch at home.
I would've gotten a ticket for my son to go see it, but he and the rest of his hall are on high alert for the duration of the World Cup
Quote from: Josephus on June 13, 2026, 07:28:04 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2026, 07:24:02 PMNow that I've seen Qatar and the Swiss play, I think that if the Canadian side plays the same way it did in the second half against Bosnia they can win out.
If
Canada has trouble scoring, and Qatar are going to be tough to break down. IF Canada can score early, then that changes, so an early goal is key.
CC, you going to any games in Vancouver?
Yeah, canada had trouble finishing and david didn't seem in top form. Even larin who did great doesnt have it in him to play 90. If the Qatar goalie stays hot it'll be an issue.
That pass before Morocco's goal. :mmm:
Quite a statement from Morocco.
Quote from: HVC on June 13, 2026, 07:34:37 PMQuote from: Josephus on June 13, 2026, 07:28:04 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2026, 07:24:02 PMNow that I've seen Qatar and the Swiss play, I think that if the Canadian side plays the same way it did in the second half against Bosnia they can win out.
If
Canada has trouble scoring, and Qatar are going to be tough to break down. IF Canada can score early, then that changes, so an early goal is key.
CC, you going to any games in Vancouver?
Yeah, Canada had trouble finishing and david didn't seem in top form. Even larin who did great doesnt have it in him to play 90. If the Qatar goalie stays hot it'll be an issue.
:unsure:
I will watch the Germany game now. I have high hopes against Curacao. Not sure why a liquor brand has its own team. :huh:
And their manager is called Advocaat it seems :hmm:
Curacao make some impressively poor choices both defensively and when trying to attack. Germany's at walking pace, though.
Quote from: Norgy on June 14, 2026, 12:22:03 PMCuracao make some impressively poor choices both defensively and when trying to attack. Germany's at walking pace, though.
Shows what I know.
1-1
:lmfao:
I have no animus against Germany, but it is always nice to see an underdog like Curacao get a goal :cool:
Seems like few of the Curacao players are born on the island. More like a Dutch Northern Ireland team with the former Dutch national coach Dick Advocaat at the helm.
Germany lacks any fluid movement around the player on the ball at the moment.
Curaçao is no Brazil, that's for sure.
:blush:
Today we are all Japanese :cheers:
I normally like the Dutch :blush:
Had a very fun time at a previous World Cup or Euros outside the Dutch pub by Chinatown. Outside because it was rammed with people in orange with drums chanting "Holland!" :)
Are there hydration breaks in all games? I thought it was only when it was above a certain temperature?
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 14, 2026, 03:23:46 PMI normally like the Dutch :blush:
<_<
QuoteAre there hydration breaks in all games? I thought it was only when it was above a certain temperature?
Gotta get those commercials in somehow
Quote from: HVC on June 14, 2026, 02:56:41 PMToday we are all Japanese :cheers:
:secret:
The Selecção is the Batavians'
Bête Noire.
Turkey, another good one in this role, already lost.
2-2 :cheers:
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 14, 2026, 04:40:19 PMQuote from: HVC on June 14, 2026, 02:56:41 PMToday we are all Japanese :cheers:
:secret:
The Selecção is the Batavians' Bête Noire.
Turkey, another good one in this role, already lost.
There's always room for more Dutch tears :lol:
Not surprised by Japan and Dutch getting a draw. They're both strong teams.
Was surprised by Ivory Coast beating Ecuador.
https://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/article/2026-world-cup-ivory-coast-stuns-ecuador-on-last-gasp-goal-in-group-e-upset-010603589.html
A bit surprised by how much Sweden beat Tunisia by.
Not surprised by the German blowout.
Not that surprised by Ivory Coast; beat les Bleus in a friendly before the tournament.
Tunisia also got thrashed 5-0 in a friendly vs Belgium.
The Ivory Coast has a solid team of pros from various European leagues. That Ibrahim Sangaré isn't a starter convinces me that it is a good side, as he was an unsung hero of Nottingham Forest's EPL revival in the latter stage of the season.
How many goals Cape Verde will concede against Spain remains to be seen, but I see a three goal minimum.
Think I might see both Spain and Belgium today.
Been thinking. Japan have been boosted as a dark horse with a chance in the tournament....
Though given the weather conditions.... Their chances might actually be better than that.
Yesterday vs NL was in an air conditioned stadium I believe. Most aren't.
Quote from: Norgy on June 15, 2026, 03:10:03 AMThe Ivory Coast has a solid team of pros from various European leagues. That Ibrahim Sangaré isn't a starter convinces me that it is a good side, as he was an unsung hero of Nottingham Forest's EPL revival in the latter stage of the season.
How many goals Cape Verde will concede against Spain remains to be seen, but I see a three goal minimum.
Think I might see both Spain and Belgium today.
Yes, Côte d'Ivoire has been an African powerhouse for quite some time, not just with Drogba.
Indeed, I am afraid it will be tough for Cabo Verde. I hope for them they can defend better than, say Tunisia vs Sweden during the previous night.
Rudi Garcia should be better than O Táctico Roberto Martínez and certainly better compared to Tedesco, for les Diables Rouges.
For lusophones and anglophones (?), such as HVC, for instance:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18wiLehDCQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18wiLehDCQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr)
FB link
Quote from: Josquius on June 15, 2026, 05:22:34 AMBeen thinking. Japan have been boosted as a dark horse with a chance in the tournament....
Though given the weather conditions.... Their chances might actually be better than that.
Yesterday vs NL was in an air conditioned stadium I believe. Most aren't.
That's come up a lot on the commentary - it's less just heat than bowl stadiums with no roof. I think it's also FIFA's excuse for empty seats, they say that people are there just in the concourse to stay in the shade.
But does make clear the hydration breaks are just quarters if they're doing them in 20 degree air conditioned stadiums.
Nobody likes the water breaks except advertisers and FIFA.
Sweden...Tunisia, didn't see that coming.
So far it's been a pretty good WC. Today seems like it might be a bore fest though....some pretty obvious results, I think, but we will see.
Go Cape Verde!
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/live/cr7xnk3eygxt?post=asset%3A529e7e7b-56fe-4e11-beb0-d1d298e05054#post
QuoteWow. Half-time and it's 0-0 between Spain and Cape Verde. Not sure people would have expected that.
Thought's and prayers for the brave footballers from Cape Verde.
Quote from: Threviel on June 15, 2026, 12:12:56 PMThought's and prayers for the brave footballers from Cabo Verde.
Will Threviel jinx Cabo Verde? :P
They seem to have Superman in goal. It's the most one-sided game I've ever seen.
Quote from: Threviel on June 15, 2026, 12:34:48 PMThey seem to have o Super-Homem in goal. It's the most one-sided game I've ever seen.
Fixed!
Biggest upset so far: Cabo Verde 0 Spain 0
Well, fuck me, the football gods are kind sometimes.
Wow!!! :showoff:
Didn't see that coming either
Quote from: Threviel on June 15, 2026, 12:57:07 PMWell, fuck me, the football gods are kind sometimes.
Thankfully, you did not jinx Cabo Verde, at least this time.
That must be one of the bigger WC upsets in recent memory. :cool:
The Cabo Verde goalie looked like he had 60 years worth of painful life experience in that face.
It bothers me that so many of the on paper good teams have such poor tempo on the ball. Even their central defenders are standing around in the opposition's half and just passing it sideways while their team mates walk slowly around to helpfully let their opponents mark them.
Quote from: Josephus on June 15, 2026, 12:58:31 PMDidn't see that coming either
I can now feel a little less worse that I drew Cape Verde in my work draw. :D
Can't really decide if this is a better or worse Spanish opener than the 2014 one. Same level I guess.
Well well, lots of games to go, unfortunately Spain can fix this.
Quote from: Norgy on June 15, 2026, 01:01:15 PMThat must be one of the bigger WC upsets in recent memory. :cool:
The Cabo Verde goalie looked like he had 60 years worth of painful life experience in that face.
It bothers me that so many of the on paper good teams have such poor tempo on the ball. Even their central defenders are standing around in the opposition's half and just passing it sideways while their team mates walk slowly around to helpfully let their opponents mark them.
Vozinha is 40, he showed his experience.
Looks like today is the underdogs day.
Egypt one up on Belgium at the half.
1-1 at the end, thanks to an own goal.
While Cape Verde are popular saw this posted. Awesome headline and a very funky song. The lost Sci fi b movie soundtrack the article mentions sounds right.
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2016/may/24/space-echo-mystery-behind-cosmic-sound-cabo-verde
Quote from: Maladict on June 15, 2026, 09:27:23 AMNobody likes the water breaks except advertisers and FIFA.
Yes. I watched a documentary on the NASL the other day. Apparently key to it's troubles was football being So continuous unlike US sports so it was hard for advertising. They would just go to adverts in the middle of a game and sometimes miss goals.
Are these water breaks new or part of MLS? Surprised this innovation wasn't tried earlier in the US and it has happened with so little fan faire now.
Cape Verde and Curucao goals were great - I'm now behind the big World Cup.
Also always pleased to see Lukaku score.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 15, 2026, 05:04:35 PMAlso always pleased to see Lukaku score.
You'll have to wait then. :P
He caused the Egyptian o.g, however.
Six of one half dozen of the other :P
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 15, 2026, 05:14:43 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 15, 2026, 05:04:35 PMAlso always pleased to see Lukaku score.
You'll have to wait then. :P
He caused the Egyptian o.g, however.
Just another example of a black man stealing Egyptian accomplishments :rolleyes: :P
Quote from: Norgy on June 15, 2026, 03:10:03 AMThe Ivory Coast has a solid team of pros from various European leagues. That Ibrahim Sangaré isn't a starter convinces me that it is a good side, as he was an unsung hero of Nottingham Forest's EPL revival in the latter stage of the season.
How many goals Cape Verde will concede against Spain remains to be seen, but I see a three goal minimum.
Think I might see both Spain and Belgium today.
Awesome skill. :P
And another unexpected tie
That was like a siege
Quote from: Josquius on June 15, 2026, 04:58:03 PMWhile Cape Verde are popular saw this posted. Awesome headline and a very funky song. The lost Sci fi b movie soundtrack the article mentions sounds right.
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2016/may/24/space-echo-mystery-behind-cosmic-sound-cabo-verde
Quote from: Maladict on June 15, 2026, 09:27:23 AMNobody likes the water breaks except advertisers and FIFA.
Yes. I watched a documentary on the NASL the other day. Apparently key to it's troubles was football being So continuous unlike US sports so it was hard for advertising. They would just go to adverts in the middle of a game and sometimes miss goals.
Are these water breaks new or part of MLS? Surprised this innovation wasn't tried earlier in the US and it has happened with so little fan faire now.
They don't have those in the MLS. Their tv partner, Apple TV, does not have ads.
Quote from: Josephus on June 15, 2026, 07:04:17 PMAnd another unexpected tie
That was like a siege
Yeah.
I watched the end of the game - just caught the Uruguay goal.
I'd just stepped out form work to pick something up and there was a big screen in a plaza where people were watching the game. Nice little crowd.
I was all intent on crankily boycotting the World Cup, but the vibe is just too good :lol:
Quote from: Jacob on June 15, 2026, 07:16:25 PMYeah.
I watched the end of the game - just caught the Uruguay goal.
I'd just stepped out form work to pick something up and there was a big screen in a plaza where people were watching the game. Nice little crowd.
I was all intent on crankily boycotting the World Cup, but the vibe is just too good :lol:
Every single time they pull me back in :(
Quote from: HVC on June 15, 2026, 02:21:24 PMLooks like today is the underdogs day.
Or the day of ties.
Quote from: HVC on June 15, 2026, 10:23:41 PMQuote from: HVC on June 15, 2026, 02:21:24 PMLooks like today is the underdogs day.
Or the day of ties.
Must be Allah's will:
NZ 2 Iran 2
Quote from: mongers on June 15, 2026, 06:48:31 PMQuote from: Norgy on June 15, 2026, 03:10:03 AMThe Ivory Coast has a solid team of pros from various European leagues. That Ibrahim Sangaré isn't a starter convinces me that it is a good side, as he was an unsung hero of Nottingham Forest's EPL revival in the latter stage of the season.
How many goals Cape Verde will concede against Spain remains to be seen, but I see a three goal minimum.
Think I might see both Spain and Belgium today.
Awesome skill. :P
I am loved by bookmakers all over. :lol:
Group I's first matches are today, and I will continue my trend of predicting poorly.
France 1 Senegal 1
Iraq 1 Norway 1
Seems the Austrians in San Francisco went to a restaurant run by an expat:
https://www.reddit.com/r/sanfrancisco/comments/1u70g0r/the_lads_are_out_at_leopolds/
Fun little video, showing all of yesterday's goals with the commentary of the scoring country: https://www.reddit.com/r/worldcup/comments/1u7a6w9/wc2026_day_5_all_goals_with_scoring_nation/
Even though Mbappé was off in the first half and Deschamps probably filed a missing person's report for him, France must be favourites for winning this tournament.
France-Senegal, great match with lots of chances and excellent attacking play.
Not just Mbappé, the entire team sucked.
Not that Sénégal was much better in the first half, too.
First real chance for Norway and goal by Haaland, of course.
Iraq is playing well though, so it's not over yet, obviously.
Great fluke by the Iraqi team, and the Iraqis had a deserved equaliser goal just before.
Haaland once again, very opportunistic but deadly.
Iraq has a decent counterattack.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 16, 2026, 04:59:10 PMNot just Mbappé, the entire team sucked.
Not that Sénégal was much better in the first half, too.
Yeah, it's still early on but that doesn't look like the team everyone thinks is gonna win the cup.
Really enjoying the Norway - Iraq match.
The Norwegians are giants next to the Iraqis, and the favourites. Admirable pluck by the Iraqis, though as a Dane I'm obviously supporting our Norwegian brethren.
I just can't support a team with Haaland on it :ph34r:
Always feels he looks like the bully in a John Hughes' film, called something like "Biff".
I went to elementary school with a kid that had the same stim as the Norwegian fans.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 16, 2026, 06:12:33 PMI just can't support a team with Haaland on it :ph34r:
Always feels he looks like the bully in a John Hughes' film, called something like "Biff".
For sure. Not a fan of Haaland, but Nordic solidarity is more significant. I mean, I'll even support the Swedes.
Nice goal.
@jacob does that solidarity work both ways? That is would a Norwegian cheer for a Dane, or do they still hold a grudge?
Quote from: HVC on June 16, 2026, 06:40:16 PMNice goal.
@jacob does that solidarity work both ways? That is would a Norwegian cheer for a Dane, or do they still hold a grudge?
It varies, but I think in general Norwegians and Danes are mutually fond of each other. There's a bit of grousing about "being a Danish colony", but I don't think it sticks too deep.
You'll have to ask the Norwegians, though.
Got up, saw posted on reddit that Austria played. OK, let's see the final score ... wait, they just kicked off??? :lol:
They're playing pretty well. Sure it's against Jordan, but they have an entertaining tenacity.
Quote from: HVC on June 16, 2026, 06:40:16 PMNice goal.
@jacob does that solidarity work both ways? That is would a Norwegian cheer for a Dane, or do they still hold a grudge?
It is a generational thing - my generation was enamoured by the Danish EC 1984 and WC 1986 teams, and definitely cheer for Denmark.
Not sure what to make of the fact that Iraq creates more against Norway than Spain did against Cape Verde. :ph34r:
Haaland's goals were Haaland-y goals. Just willed into the back of the net.
Very nice goal. Expanding the teams hasn't been bad so far.
And thanks norgy.
Let's go portugal!
Didn't take long :)
Yeah, while the "lower" teams have been more entertaining than I expected their goalies need qatar and cabe Verde levels of pluck, luck, and skill to stay in it.
That being said portugal taking the foot off the gas might come to bite them in the ass.
See <_<
Hardly surprising. Selecção stopped playing after the goal and they let Wissa alone for the header.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 17, 2026, 12:52:35 PMHardly surprising. Selecção stopped playing after the goal and they let Wissa alone for the header.
I have faith but Portugal is handcuffed for 2-4 years. Last coach that had the balls to bench ronaldo got fired. Hes still a great player in the right circumstances, but hasn't accepted that hes not the same player anymore.
That's o Táctico for you.
Ronaldo has been playing already more than a half-time so useless now.
Shame. It was a beautiful goal.
Will Gonçalo Ramos get his 5 minutes, as per Martínez's regulations?
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 01:11:12 PMI have faith but Portugal is handcuffed for 2-4 years. Last coach that had the balls to bench ronaldo got fired. Hes still a great player in the right circumstances, but hasn't accepted that hes not the same player anymore.
I said it before but I think one of the best and most exciting teams in the tournament being sacrificed for the ego of a 41 year old.
Wow, Ramos in for 7+ minutes this time. Maybe a dozen minutes or so, with stoppage time.
Ronaldo playing the whole 90 minutes again.
Not this time though. He even played stoppage time. :lmfao:
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 17, 2026, 01:45:54 PMQuote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 01:11:12 PMI have faith but Portugal is handcuffed for 2-4 years. Last coach that had the balls to bench ronaldo got fired. Hes still a great player in the right circumstances, but hasn't accepted that hes not the same player anymore.
I said it before but I think one of the best and most exciting teams in the tournament being sacrificed for the ego of a 41 year old.
Wait until they're sacrificed for a 45 year old.
I know very little about soccer, but it looked to me like Ronaldo runs to the same spot in the penalty area, stands there and waits for his teammates to delver the ball.
Swedes generally cheer for Danes and Finns. The Norwegians we see as the dim-witted cousin from the countryside that won the lottery. We kind of see them as harmless, we don't dislike them, but we do not cheer for them. Them winning the world cup would be a disaster.
This can differ depending on where you are in Sweden. I come from the part that's closest to Denmark, so that's perhaps why I think all Swedes think like we do here.
Norway is the world leader of Winter Sports. If they were going to win it it would have been during the Winter World Cup in Qatar.
Time passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2026, 02:07:58 PMI know very little about soccer, but it looked to me like Ronaldo runs to the same spot in the penalty area, stands there and waits for his teammates to delver the ball.
He plays a good 20-25 minutes and then gets winded. He doesnt run back to defend*, and after he gets tired doesnt have the pace to drible past the defense, so hes left with set pieces and crosses. He also messes up plays by trying to score when he should pass or let balls through (see Conceição's reaction).
That being said i do think he'd be a good end of game sub so hes fresh when the opposition is tired. But his ego won't allow it and the managements fear won't force it. Ronaldo will live long enough to be the villain in the mind of portuguese fans.
*to be fair neither does mbappe, but at least he contributes :P.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:19:45 PMTime passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
:cry:
He got to the World Cup! :w00t:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HK_AlcqX0AAvibm?format=jpg&name=900x900)
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 02:22:51 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:19:45 PMTime passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
:cry:
:secret:
It's his ederitis acting up again. :P
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 02:22:51 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:19:45 PMTime passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
:cry:
You have Portugal heartbreak, I have England heartbreak. Together we'll have a Canada victory to cheer for decades!
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 17, 2026, 02:23:48 PMHe got to the World Cup! :w00t:
I think they paid his why he's such an icon :lol:
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:24:57 PMQuote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 02:22:51 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:19:45 PMTime passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
:cry:
You have Portugal heartbreak, I have England heartbreak. Together we'll have a Canada victory to cheer for decades!
We also have our language back ups. A good portuguese fan always needs back ups :P
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 02:27:26 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:24:57 PMQuote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 02:22:51 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2026, 02:19:45 PMTime passes and most things change but not Portugal. Portugal still sucks.
It is a great relief to me.
:cry:
You have Portugal heartbreak, I have England heartbreak. Together we'll have a Canada victory to cheer for decades!
We also have our language back ups. A good portuguese fan always needs back ups :P
Don't get your hopes too high on Brazil though. :P
cabo verde all the way :D
I thought penalty shooters could not stop their run before shooting? :hmm:
Croatian goalkeeper got tricked and penalty retaken.
Hard day so far for veterans: CR7 non existant, and Modric giving a penalty to England.
P-S: goal keepers are getting screwed with this « new » rule.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 17, 2026, 03:13:51 PMI thought penalty shooters could not stop their run before shooting? :hmm:
Croatian goalkeeper got tricked and penalty retaken.
I hate stuttering penalties but they seem very cool now (drive me crazy watching because I'm an old man :lol:).
Bit weird on that as the ref commentary (Christina Unkel - apparently an American VAR expert in today's cursed sentences) here said it should be retaken because of encroachment by Gvardiol but when it was given it said because of the keeper.
Hasn't the stutter step been a thing for a while now? As an old i too hate it.
If kickers can stutter then goalies should be allowed off the line after the first stutter.
Woooo
Very nice goal.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 17, 2026, 03:37:10 PMVery nice goal.
The one before half-time was even nicer.
No - the first one was better for me.
Surprisingly fun half. Tuchel will be furious :lol:
Edit: Also - not to praise FIFA - but why is VAR so much better and less intrusive here? Do they just have a different set of criteria? Seems really weirdly different.
More cameras and all the players were scannned?
England 4 Croatia 2
Seems over now for the valiant Croats now, with less than 5 minutes to play.
Yeah, the English side looks pretty solid
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2026, 04:58:28 PMYeah, the English side looks pretty solid
I think Tuchel's very good.
Southgate was really important from a cultural perspective but I think a bit more conservative and limited as a coach/manager. No way he'd make those subs/England would get the fourth - and then the rest of the game would be a similar pattern of it getting increasingly nervy, falling further and further back (and then, sometimes, conceding).
Just realized there's 104 games in the years World Cup.
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 05:07:53 PMJust realized there's 104 games in the years World Cup.
In French, we only got 2 teams of descriptors. They are already dieing.
Some aussies are getting deported :lol:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZsIZn2T71y
:lol: Annoying (for the Americans) thing is that's a chant that can work for literally any (English-speaking) team :ph34r:
It's going to go far :ph34r:
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 06:31:18 PMSome aussies are getting deported :lol:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZsIZn2T71y
From Vancouver? I don't think so.
They're playing in Seattle in two days :P
:w00t:
Wait is England...actually really good? Huh.
It always starts with false hope. Don't fall for it :D
4th ranked in the world apparently.
I expect Argentina will knock us out. I'm tempted to put a hedging bet on them so that when they do at least I'll have some benfit from it. 9-1 to win the WC.
I do suspect its less England are especially good and more most of the traditionally good teams are currently at a bit of a low.
England do seem way too Kane reliant.
I have to say the rules on time wasting are a godsend. Notable improvement on throw ins, corners, goal kicks and substitutions. The hydration break is an obvious ad grab though.
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2026, 06:31:18 PMSome aussies are getting deported :lol:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZsIZn2T71y
Was a bit lame. -_-
Quote from: Valmy on June 17, 2026, 08:28:12 PMWait is England...actually really good? Huh.
England has reached at least the quarter finals of every major tournament since 2018 - so I think there has been an improvement for a while now. But I think the coach matters a lot. As I say I think Southgate was necessary as a reset, but I think Tuchel is a far better coach. I said it yesterday but making subs at 3-2 there is no way that Southgate would bring on three attacking players who then contribute to score a fourth.
I think part of that is playing to the strengths of the team we've got. I'm not sure England are really good but I think they might be quite fun. I love Pickford but I think there are probably questions about the defence (particularly Stones-Konsa) - and they were a bit switched off a few times in the first half. But on the attacking side, Kane scored 60+ goals for Bayern last season. Bellingham and Gordon play for Madrid and Barcelona (Rashford also just back from Barcelona and was fantastic) and Madueke and Saka have just had very good seasons and won the league with Arsenal. Having said all that - I think solid defences tend to do a lot better than fun attacks in tournaments :phe34r:
As a slight aside I do also think it's basically good for English football in general that we've got players playing at high levels in other countries like Kane, Rashford and Bellingham last season. I hope it carries on - especially interesting careers like Bellingham's who may never play in the Premier League.
Quote from: Zoupa on June 18, 2026, 08:59:45 AMI have to say the rules on time wasting are a godsend. Notable improvement on throw ins, corners, goal kicks and substitutions. The hydration break is an obvious ad grab though.
To be honest the most patriotic I felt watching England-Croatia was the massive, massive boos by English and Croatian fans for the hydration break in an air conditioned 20 degree stadium :lol:
Agree on the rest and still intrigued at why there's so much less VAR kerfuffle.
So far, set pieces have been poor for every team.
Goal of the day by Marnic for Bosnia!
SWI 3 BOS 1
Bosnians playing with 10 players only (red card):
Nice dive by the Swiss for the 4-1 penalty though. :P
Deserved victory, all in all.
Goal! Let's go Canada!
Larin again! :w00t:
Is corruption contagious, cause carneys awfully close to infantino
Canadas gonna go further than portugal, isn't it? :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 05:31:05 PMCanadas gonna go further than portugal, isn't it? :lol:
:D
I was driving, what happened to Kone?
Bad foul. Qatar player got a red. Kone on the way to the hospital.
*edit* saw a picture. Leg looks like it's broken.
Quote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 05:31:05 PMCanadas gonna go further than portugal, isn't it? :lol:
Already droping Cabo Verde, plus Brazil, possibly? :P
Portuguese press has been suggesting a possible conflict of interest fir Lartinez, rumored to take over Al-Nassr.
Yes, Ronaldo's Saudi club. :D
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 18, 2026, 06:29:18 PMQuote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 05:31:05 PMCanadas gonna go further than portugal, isn't it? :lol:
Already droping Cabo Verde, plus Brazil, possibly? :P
Portuguese press has been suggesting a possible conflict of interest fir Lartinez, rumored to take over Al-Nassr.
Yes, Ronaldo's Saudi club. :D
I mean there's a chance Cabo verde can go further too :P some senator got vozinha's mom to the states now, so who knows :D
Quote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 06:28:08 PMBad foul. Qatar player got a red. Kone on the way to the hospital.
*edit* saw a picture. Leg looks like it's broken.
Yeah not showing the replays here but a bad challenge.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 18, 2026, 06:32:19 PMQuote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 06:28:08 PMBad foul. Qatar player got a red. Kone on the way to the hospital.
*edit* saw a picture. Leg looks like it's broken.
Yeah not showing the replays here but a bad challenge.
Yeah it was a bad foul, but didn't look like a leg breaking foul. But like you they didn't show replays after they saw it was serious so not all the angles and the like.
If I remember 2022 correctly. Canada's goal average per game is now 1. :cool:
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 18, 2026, 06:58:10 PMIf I remember 2022 correctly. Canada's goal average per game is now 1. :cool:
First host hat trick since 1966
Quote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 06:45:52 PMYeah it was a bad foul, but didn't look like a leg breaking foul. But like you they didn't show replays after they saw it was serious so not all the angles and the like.
What do you mean?
That it wasn't intended as a leg-breaking foul? Or are you doubting that Kone's leg was broken?
That it didnt seem like the foul was hard enough to break a leg. To me it didnt look like it was intended to cause this level of harm. But from the picture I saw it appears that kones leg is indeed broken. That being said it was still intentional and deserving of a red card.
But I didn't see a lot of replays so I could be wrong about how hard of a tackle it was. More of a split second impression.
Mexico pressuring Korea early.
Been a lot of news here on the team. Drones trying to record their practice. And a massive break between the team and the press corp after one of the later was caught shit talking Son Heung-Min on a hot mic for not doing military service. (He won an exemption by winning gold in the Asian Cup in 2018 IIRC) They're boycotting all interviews.
Korea is having the better game after the hydration break.
Quote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 07:20:46 PMThat it didnt seem like the foul was hard enough to break a leg. To me it didnt look like it was intended to cause this level of harm. But from the picture I saw it appears that kones leg is indeed broken. That being said it was still intentional and deserving of a red card.
But I didn't see a lot of replays so I could be wrong about how hard of a tackle it was. More of a split second impression.
The coaches on the sideline realized it was broken right away. They started yelling at the linesman that the leg was broken right after the play. I also if you saw the look on his face right after he went down, that was no dive.
England defence seemed slow and somewhat easily opened; so won't do as well as Argentina. :bowler:
The goal Korea let up to Mexico was due to a brutal error by the keeper.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 18, 2026, 09:45:43 PMThe goal Korea let up to Mexico was due to a brutal error by the keeper.
Yeah that was a costly fuck up.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2026, 08:52:41 PMQuote from: HVC on June 18, 2026, 07:20:46 PMThat it didnt seem like the foul was hard enough to break a leg. To me it didnt look like it was intended to cause this level of harm. But from the picture I saw it appears that kones leg is indeed broken. That being said it was still intentional and deserving of a red card.
But I didn't see a lot of replays so I could be wrong about how hard of a tackle it was. More of a split second impression.
The coaches on the sideline realized it was broken right away. They started yelling at the linesman that the leg was broken right after the play. I also if you saw the look on his face right after he went down, that was no dive.
Yeah the aftermath looked bad right away. Found the clip. It looked like just a leg sweep after the ball had left so definitely a card (perhaps in other circumstances a just a yellow). Wasn't like a cleats up slide tackle or something along those line which I was trying to (ungracefully) articulate.
Damn. Maybe Canada, Mexico, and the US all advance to the knock out rounds.
OK, it really IS a Tartan army, that noise will strike the fear of god into most opposition:
(https://ichef.bbc.co.uk/images/ic/raw/p0ns8txw.jpg?v=4&desktop-default)
For blokes who drank Boston dry, they seem in decent shape.
Quote from: Norgy on June 19, 2026, 10:10:26 AMFor blokes who drank Boston dry, they seem in decent shape.
I've a friend who's out there with Scotland and having a fantastic time. He says Boston's really embracing it and he thinks Scots and Bostonians are a very good match - less sure how it'd have gone if it was Scots in Miami, say (catastrophically burnt :lol:). Apparently Philadelphia also getting very into it, New York basically indifferent given the Knicks run.
I saw someone online saying Bostonians are acting like rural townspeople at the end of a film where a friendly outsider teaches them to live life to its fullest or overcome their differences, "except instead of aliens or drag queens it's 50,000 Scots" :lol:
Quite enjoyed the story that the only beer left in some bars is Bud Light - which the Scots are refusing to engage with.
Scottish fans were having a great time watching the Red Sox play the Jays.
They took over the ballpark with their chants.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 19, 2026, 10:26:44 AMQuote from: Norgy on June 19, 2026, 10:10:26 AMFor blokes who drank Boston dry, they seem in decent shape.
I've a friend who's out there with Scotland and having a fantastic time. He says Boston's really embracing it and he thinks Scots and Bostonians are a very good match - less sure how it'd have gone if it was Scots in Miami, say (catastrophically burnt :lol:). Apparently Philadelphia also getting very into it, New York basically indifferent given the Knicks run.
I saw someone online saying Bostonians are acting like rural townspeople at the end of a film where a friendly outsider teaches them to live life to its fullest or overcome their differences, "except instead of aliens or drag queens it's 50,000 Scots" :lol:
Quite enjoyed the story that the only beer left in some bars is Bud Light - which the Scots are refusing to engage with.
That is fantastic.
Only problem: the reputation of Bostonians is to be assholes. Not sure what that says about them and the Scots :lol:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 19, 2026, 01:21:46 PMScottish fans were having a great time watching the Red Sox play the Jays.
They took over the ballpark with their chants.
At least they got to attend an entertaining game. I hope they had fun. I always wanted to see a game at Fenway Park but the times I was in Boston they are always playing the Yankees making the ticket prices unaffordable.
A Clip of the Canadian fans on their way to the stadium
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZvZe0tSy0D/?igsh=NGs5MXdkbmxtOWt3
And here are the Scottish fans on their way to Fenway
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZnOpk_xGbB/?igsh=MWZtMnJobW95eXJoNA==
US gets helping hand from the opposition again.
This ref sucks.
Quote from: HVC on June 19, 2026, 03:55:39 PMThis ref sucks.
At least he's not a Conmebol ref.
Latest tartan army chant on their way to the Morocco game: "we're going to deep fry your cous-cous" :lol: :ph34r:
Sounds like Poch has got his mojo back with the US.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 19, 2026, 04:16:56 PMSounds like Poch has got his mojo back with the US.
They've played well and I like their attacking play style, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. They've played Paraguay and Australia :lol:
Fair. Sad for the Socceroos, always want them to do well (and they did v Turkiye who I fee always underwhelm? :hmm:).
Poor Scotland
Proximity to the Red Sox took them down
Did the aussies get to do their pedo cheer? Only saw bits and pieces.
Covering your mouth is a red card?
Prestianni rule.
What the hell Turkey, you had half a game one man up. This is why you're named after a big, dumb, clumsy bird*
*May not be historically accurate :P
Quote from: HVC on June 20, 2026, 12:08:02 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 19, 2026, 11:45:54 PMPrestianni rule.
You blame everything on Benfica :D
Crypto-Moor triggered! :P
To be fair, Vinícius also pulled that trick during that game.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 19, 2026, 04:16:56 PMLatest tartan army chant on their way to the Morocco game: "we're going to deep fry your cous-cous" :lol: :ph34r:
Sounds like Poch has got his mojo back with the US.
It is from McKallaster, the Internet personar. His unbiased commentary is brilliant.
Quote from: Valmy on June 19, 2026, 01:26:59 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 19, 2026, 10:26:44 AMQuote from: Norgy on June 19, 2026, 10:10:26 AMFor blokes who drank Boston dry, they seem in decent shape.
I've a friend who's out there with Scotland and having a fantastic time. He says Boston's really embracing it and he thinks Scots and Bostonians are a very good match - less sure how it'd have gone if it was Scots in Miami, say (catastrophically burnt :lol:). Apparently Philadelphia also getting very into it, New York basically indifferent given the Knicks run.
I saw someone online saying Bostonians are acting like rural townspeople at the end of a film where a friendly outsider teaches them to live life to its fullest or overcome their differences, "except instead of aliens or drag queens it's 50,000 Scots" :lol:
Quite enjoyed the story that the only beer left in some bars is Bud Light - which the Scots are refusing to engage with.
That is fantastic.
Only problem: the reputation of Bostonians is to be assholes. Not sure what that says about them and the Scots :lol:
The Scots have a reputation, undeserved, for being up for a "peeve" (drinks plural) and a "square go" (fight). See: The Frank Begbie character in Trainspotting.
Quote from: Norgy on June 20, 2026, 04:03:09 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 19, 2026, 04:16:56 PMLatest tartan army chant on their way to the Morocco game: "we're going to deep fry your cous-cous" :lol: :ph34r:
Sounds like Poch has got his mojo back with the US.
It is from McKallaster, the Internet personar. His unbiased commentary is brilliant.
McKallaster is awesome.
I know the crowd noise on the stadium feed seems a bit high, but does Alan Shearer needs to SHOUT all of the time whilst commentating? <_<
So what's you nomination for the worst commentator of this world cup?
I am in Albania right now, and the commentary in the Czechia Vs South Africa match was horrendous. Could not understand a word.
I think it's always Lee Dixon for me.
Very much enjoy Ally McCoist who commentates but also gives details of his travels on the job. He was so good in Russia and absolutely loving this trip too - plus dropping the odd fact from clearly doing tours in the host city. It's very nice.
Almost all Norwegian commentators start out at 10 and have nowhere to go when there's anything exciting happening.
I've only heard and seen Dixon and Shearer on clips, and Dixon seems to whisper and have no emotional register.
Believe me when I tell you, your experts and pundits are miles better than Norwegian ones.
While unlikely let's go sweden!
Feels strange. Netherlands are always my realistic favourites, but now they play Sweden and, well, go Sweden I guess.
At least it's not negative goal difference.
The Dutch are clinical, they'll win this cup.
Not if the football gods are just
(https://embed.surlyhorns.com/media/86ca6883aafea6bb67d9bd39863eceb1778e134e.jpg?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bsky.app%2Fimg%2Ffeed_thumbnail%2Fplain%2Fdid%3Aplc%3Ametos4p2yzc3tcdu6h7kszfz%2Fbafkreichbvoa2yscvpfxvofqpuruhmelbwkgi6tnrjhtlotdavc4rmdwvu)
The government is ruining the World Cup for me with this Ein Volk Ein Reich Ein Team shit.
But I was worried this would happen if our team started to do well.
Although saw that apparently on the Spanish-language internet they're calling Poch La Malinche for teaching the Americans how to play football :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 20, 2026, 01:57:45 PMNot if the football gods are just
Spain proved them unjust, so there's still hope.
Why do so many players have ripped socks?
Quote from: Threviel on June 20, 2026, 03:08:22 PMQuote from: HVC on June 20, 2026, 01:57:45 PMNot if the football gods are just
Spain proved them unjust, so there's still hope.
Spain was boring, but not evil. I don't care who wins expect for two teams, Netherlands and England. Some teams might annoy me (Italy :P ), but I don't begrudge them their victories.
Fair enough.
Did he only blow the whistle after the goal? That seems odd.
Feel kind of bad for the ivory coast.
Quote from: HVC on June 20, 2026, 05:00:55 PMFeel kind of bad for the ivory coast.
Same :( Good game though.
Quote from: HVC on June 20, 2026, 03:14:29 PMI don't care who wins expect for two teams, Netherlands and England.
Obviously the opposite for me, but we can certainly agree on England. :hug:
Curaçao Vs Cabo Verde final.
Really entertaining game. Ivory coast breaths a sigh of relief.
Quote from: Valmy on June 20, 2026, 02:41:05 PM(https://embed.surlyhorns.com/media/86ca6883aafea6bb67d9bd39863eceb1778e134e.jpg?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bsky.app%2Fimg%2Ffeed_thumbnail%2Fplain%2Fdid%3Aplc%3Ametos4p2yzc3tcdu6h7kszfz%2Fbafkreichbvoa2yscvpfxvofqpuruhmelbwkgi6tnrjhtlotdavc4rmdwvu)
The government is ruining the World Cup for me with this Ein Volk Ein Reich Ein Team shit.
But I was worried this would happen if our team started to do well.
I guess it's good that they post "OUR SOIL" and not (yet) "OUR BLOOD, OUR SOIL".
Also:
Newsweek (https://www.newsweek.com/map-shows-us-world-cup-teams-immigrant-backgrounds-12075902)
QuoteSix players on the U.S. men's national soccer team at the 2026 World Cup were born outside the country. More than half the 26 men on the roster hold dual citizenship. And the striker who scored twice in the Americans' opening 4-1 victory over Paraguay is eligible to play only because of a legal provision the Trump administration has sought to eliminate.
So much for one nation, one homeland :P
Quote from: Syt on June 20, 2026, 10:25:58 PMQuote from: Valmy on June 20, 2026, 02:41:05 PM(https://embed.surlyhorns.com/media/86ca6883aafea6bb67d9bd39863eceb1778e134e.jpg?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bsky.app%2Fimg%2Ffeed_thumbnail%2Fplain%2Fdid%3Aplc%oa2yscvpfxvofqpuruhmelbwkgi6tnrjhtlotdavc4rmdwvu)
The government is ruining the World Cup for me with this Ein Volk Ein Reich Ein Team shit.
But I was worried this would happen if our team started to do well.
I guess it's good that they post "OUR SOIL" and not (yet) "OUR BLOOD, OUR SOIL".
Well that's pretty messed up.
I do note the missing part of the phrase and the picture containing black players.... They no doubt mean to protect their soil from these chaps.
Quote from: Valmy on June 20, 2026, 02:41:05 PM(https://embed.surlyhorns.com/media/86ca6883aafea6bb67d9bd39863eceb1778e134e.jpg?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.bsky.app%2Fimg%2Ffeed_thumbnail%2Fplain%2Fdid%3Aplc%3Ametos4p2yzc3tcdu6h7kszfz%2Fbafkreichbvoa2yscvpfxvofqpuruhmelbwkgi6tnrjhtlotdavc4rmdwvu)
The government is ruining the World Cup for me with this Ein Volk Ein Reich Ein Team shit.
But I was worried this would happen if our team started to do well.
Queen's One Vision in German was already done by Laibach, anyways. :P
Quote from: Norgy on June 20, 2026, 11:29:56 AMAlmost all Norwegian commentators start out at 10 and have nowhere to go when there's anything exciting happening.
I've only heard and seen Dixon and Shearer on clips, and Dixon seems to whisper and have no emotional register.
Believe me when I tell you, your experts and pundits are miles better than Norwegian ones.
Yeah Dixon has no emotional register and doesn't really seem to enjoy the games he's watching, football, the World Cup, life. He also doesn't really add much that's interesting in other ways either :ph34r:
Every single big tournament the best pundit is Emma Hayes (now of USWNT but formerly of Chelsea). There's been a furore over the production maybe being a bit sexist (which I think is a little unfair).
But (apologies for X link, couldn't find it elsewhere) this was her breakdown in the first hydration break of what Brazil were doing v Haiti. And I know she's a top-level manager but being able to see this, analyse and clearly, eloquently explain it in the space of a two minute hydration break after 20 minutes is an incredible skill:
https://x.com/itvfootball/status/2068139897572012251?s=20
She does general punditry on other games but honestly I actually prefer her at a tactics board explaining to the standard three people going through talking points format.
I guess this is a unexpected positive side effect of the growth of women's football.
You can have top managers who arent doing much the summer of major tournaments available to present.
And yes. Alan shearer is awful. How the bbc keeps giving him jobs.... It must be because his politics are "right".
I know it was a long time but Belgian still feels very Roberto Martinez to me (nicest possible way can't believe two European countries have given him their golden generations) :bleeding:
:o :w00t:
Awww
It's true :cry:
Plus bad defense :D
Congratulations!
2-1 for Uruguay now. :D
I think its vozinha's mom that's the true jinx :lol:
Stop mixing her mom up with CR7's mother or sisters!
:D
All im saying is she was home when he shut out spain. They fly her over and uruguay scores two. Stats don't lie!
There are lies, damn lies and statistics!
Amazing - BBC was doing an interview in Cape Verde when the first goal went in :lol:
https://x.com/BBCSport/status/2068839237349409122?s=20
Bloody idiot journalist prevented the guy from really watching and enjoying the goal! :P
This current generation of cameramen have lost the most important worldcup skill. Long gone are the pretty girl close ups :( :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 21, 2026, 07:59:30 PMThis current generation of cameramen have lost the most important worldcup skill. Long gone are the pretty girl close ups :( :lol:
:lol: Because of woke, somehow.
They seem to be very keen on finding celebrities - and I have no idea who 90% of them are. I assume they're big in America. Even aside from the pretty girls I do wish they did more shots of normal fans and fewers of people in executive boxes.
Just heard on commentary that neither of these teams have won a World Cup game which makes sense for New Zealand - but really surprises me for Egypt.
Infantino is the new pretty girl. Every game he's at there are long shots, sometimes from different angles. I personally prefer the old way :lol:
I dunno, I'm seeing quite a few pretty girl flashes, but they seem quite embarassed about it. Like here's a few seconds of two cute Swedish girls....oh shit, they know what I'm doing, err....Here's a fat guy with a pint.
they used to show a lot more pretty girls in the past. Everything's gone woke :mad:
Quote from: Josquius on June 22, 2026, 03:24:49 AMI dunno, I'm seeing quite a few pretty girl flashes, but they seem quite embarassed about it. Like here's a few seconds of two cute Swedish girls....oh shit, they know what I'm doing, err....Here's a fat guy with a pint.
That's just panning the crowd, they've always done that and it's not the same :P
Quote from: Josephus on June 22, 2026, 04:51:47 AMthey used to show a lot more pretty girls in the past. Everything's gone woke :mad:
You and your liberals have ruined everything! :lol:
Also, looking at last nights results, you think NZ might pull an Australia and move to the Asian group for better competition, or stay in Oceania for guaranteed WC placement?
Quote from: HVC on June 22, 2026, 05:01:04 AMAlso, looking at last nights results, you think NZ might pull an Australia and move to the Asian group for better competition, or stay in Oceania for guaranteed WC placement?
They could pull a Eurovision and join UEFA, I'm sure Italy would happily swap places.
They'd still manage to choke :sleep:
Hydration breaks ruin football. Proven*
https://thedataschool.com/jacob-aronson/have-hydration-breaks-broken-the-2026-world-cup/
*Not enough of a sample to actually prove it scientifically but....yeah....Looks so. That the scoreboard has a big advert too. ugh.
Watched a game the other night where fans started booing when one was called. Quite right.
Quote from: HVC on June 21, 2026, 07:59:30 PMThis current generation of cameramen have lost the most important worldcup skill. Long gone are the pretty girl close ups :( :lol:
All hail United Statesian auteur Andy Sidaris, with his Bombs, Bullets and Babes universe (Sidariverse); inventor of the ™Honey Shot™!
I'm all in favour of both pretty girls and fat guys with a pint, but can do without the celebrities, 90% of them are so much more boring than ordinary people. Plus I don't even know who most of them are these days :grumblyoldgit
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 07:22:45 AMQuote from: HVC on June 21, 2026, 07:59:30 PMThis current generation of cameramen have lost the most important worldcup skill. Long gone are the pretty girl close ups :( :lol:
All hail United Statesian auteur Andy Sidaris, with his Bombs, Bullets and Babes universe (Sidariverse); inventor of the ™Honey Shot™!
:cool:
Nice obscure reference.
Also I agree with Tricky, and who the hell wants to see Infanticidetino on the tv screens.
Quote from: mongers on June 22, 2026, 07:39:01 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 07:22:45 AMQuote from: HVC on June 21, 2026, 07:59:30 PMThis current generation of cameramen have lost the most important worldcup skill. Long gone are the pretty girl close ups :( :lol:
All hail United Statesian auteur Andy Sidaris, with his Bombs, Bullets and Babes universe (Sidariverse); inventor of the ™Honey Shot™!
:cool:
Nice obscure reference.
Auteur cinéma is demanding. :D
Andy Sidaris was a recognised gridiron telecast director (Monday Night "Football").
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Sidaris (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Sidaris)
QuoteCareer
Television
Sidaris began his television career in 1950, working as a stage manager for WFAA in Dallas, Texas, before being promoted to director six months later. In 1959, he moved to Los Angeles to work for ABC Sports, beginning with directing AFL football games in 1960. Sidaris also directed the first telecast of the Wide World of Sports in 1961, Monday Night Football games, as well as ABC's coverage of every Olympics from the 1964 Winter Games in Innsbruck to the 1988 Winter Games in Calgary, winning several Emmy Awards in the process.[5]
While directing college football games on ABC, Sidaris pioneered what became known as the "honey shot," close-ups of cheerleaders and attractive female fans in the stands at sporting events.[6] He was also at the forefront of the development of instant replay, slow-motion replays, and split-screen views.[5]
QuoteAlso I agree with Tricky, and who the hell wants to see Infanticidetino on the tv screens.
Who doesn't? The Don?
Let's go Austria! Time to make up for the whole Hitler thing.
Quote from: HVC on June 22, 2026, 12:05:27 PMLet's go Austria! Time to make up for the whole Hitler thing.
:secret:
Hitler identified as German, Austria did not exist or rather should not exist according to him.
Really naive for the Austrians to believe they could get away with a penalty offence.
Messi missed though, this time. Tribute to CR7? :D
He could have identified as a tree, for the purposes of this game he's Austrian and they must atone for him :lol:
Also, penalty? Not watching the game so was it legit or is FIFA going for a repeat?
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 12:11:10 PMHitler identified as German, Austria did not exist or rather should not exist according to him.
Being German and Austrian were not contradictory in those days. I think there was even a saying that the only Austrian was the Emperor himself right?
Quote from: Valmy on June 22, 2026, 12:16:55 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 12:11:10 PMHitler identified as German, Austria did not exist or rather should not exist according to him.
Being German and Austrian were not contradictory in those days. I think there was even a saying that the only Austrian was the Emperor himself right?
According to Hitler, contradictory, but yes Ständestaat Austria claimed to be German or even the better Germany.
Deutsches Österreich (German Austria) as a name was banned by the Entente, after the war.
Referee is quite... liberal in his interpretation in what is a foul or not. :hmm:
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 12:38:32 PMReferee is quite... liberal in his interpretation in what is a foul or not. :hmm:
If Argentina was really a libertarian state there would be no referees and they would let the free market decide what is a foul.
Oh shit. Argentina scored.
Well we had a good run Austria.
Argentina dominated, though Austria did what she could to complicate the Argentine game plans.
Quote from: Valmy on June 22, 2026, 12:41:06 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 22, 2026, 12:38:32 PMReferee is quite... liberal in his interpretation in what is a foul or not. :hmm:
If Argentina was really a libertarian state there would be no referees and they would let the free market decide what is a foul.
I said liberal, not libertarian nor classic liberal! :P
Could they get a referee with a chainsaw though? :hmm:
2-0 for Argentina
A bit sad for Austria, attacking till the end and getting caught in a counter, with deflections.
Messi again, of course.
Apparently South Americans are giving Argentina the South African treatment?
Quote from: HVC on June 22, 2026, 02:03:59 PMApparently South Americans are giving Argentina the South African treatment?
That's always the way - years since I was in South America but when I mentioned I was going to Argentina or had just come from Argentina, unprompted people would complain about how racist they are (and there's been a few really bad incidents with Argentine tourists recently in Brazil).
Extraordinary performance again though - wild that Messi seems to be getting better with age in this type of tournament.
I knew Brazilians didn't like Argentina (for obvious reasons) but didn't realize in was a pan South American thing.
Very pleased to see Mo Salah score in this world cup, he deserves a good high point to end his career on.*
* Yes I know he's gone elsewhere, but after his Liverpool what else matters?
The complacency I feared Norway was suffering from was not there. 3-2 is a good result, and we're through before the last match. Coach Solbakken says players will be rested against France.
Quote from: mongers on June 22, 2026, 07:23:22 PMVery pleased to see Mo Salah score in this world cup, he deserves a good high point to end his career on.*
* Yes I know he's gone elsewhere, but after his Liverpool what else matters?
There's a nice video of Salah celebrating in Vancouver:
A cocktail bar in Dallas:
(https://i.ibb.co/Qs9jpyP/image.png)
The Vienna Coffee looks nice, actually. :)
What do the neutrals think about the "Row" chant of Norway's fans? :uffda:
Triggering :P
I do not like it. Mainly the rowing action. You just stole the cool Iceland cheer and made it spastic :lol:
I mean, it's not a Maori Haka; though that's a very high bar.
It's dorky, but they're having fun. The underlying concept of working together and working hard is on point.
It's fine.
Quote from: Norgy on June 23, 2026, 01:45:07 AMWhat do the neutrals think about the "Row" chant of Norway's fans? :uffda:
I love it. Absolutely love it.
It has of course been called nationalistic and fascist already. I find it more funny.
Norway being through is that huge hurdle being passed. Ødegaard was as his best, and proved the pundits wrong.
However, the two teams that have impressed me the most are Japan and France. Morocco look as good as expected, the US better than most thought. I can't enjoy Argentina. Brazil are on shaky ground, I think, but could come good. Germany, I don't know what to make of the performance so far.
I enjoy how uncertain it is.
Quote from: Norgy on June 23, 2026, 10:51:16 AMIt has of course been called nationalistic and fascist already. I find it more funny.
:lol: I think it does raise interesting questions of how much historical distance for something to become just benign and fun.
On the nationalist/fascist - I get that it's just runes - but I did have a bit of an intake of breath about the font for names and numbers on the shirts. The row is just quite fun I think.
Edit: And to be clear don't think that is fascist either just from an Anglo perspective very much used by the violent far right so a bit weird to see it in another context. It's my reception not the thing itself.
Quote from: Jacob on June 23, 2026, 11:18:09 AMI enjoy how uncertain it is.
Hate to say it but Infantino was right about the expansion :(
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 23, 2026, 11:21:55 AMQuote from: Jacob on June 23, 2026, 11:18:09 AMI enjoy how uncertain it is.
Hate to say it but Infantino was right about the expansion :(
You really do have a soft spot for morally dubious regimes :P
The tournament itself has been ok. Pleasantly surprised by the smaller nations. The group stages aren't always super exciting in the world to begin with, but with so many countries I think the first big nations game will be French vs Norway on Friday*. And Norway gets to squeeze into that category on Haaland's Viking sized shoulders :lol:
*it's entirely possible I've forgotten a game, there's been so many.
Sweden - Netherlands was quite a traditional decent team game.
England - Croatia on paper was definitely a big team game. Not long ago Croatia were finalists. Though they seem to have fallen off hard.
Norway rowing... Hey if they're enjoying themselves whatever. Though yes does feel a bit derivative of Iceland.
Runes and viking imagery.... I approve. Germanic countries in general need to be reclaiming dark age stuff from fascists and Norway is the one with the biggest case for vikings being key in their actual history and fascists should bog off.
May they lead the way where others follow and an interest in vikings no longer sets of fasc alarm bells.
In regards to Sweden... I guess? They have few premier league players right? Might just be my lack of knowledge in that regard but I don't think of them as a big team.
I'll give you Croatia england though.
Well at least ronaldo will be happy now
One of the tsn commentators sounds just like John Oliver. It's getting distracting :lol:
On viking stuff I feel the same as I do about the national flag. Use it. It doesn't belong to the fascists and I don't think we should let them take our symbols.
Quote from: Josquius on June 23, 2026, 11:47:52 AMEngland - Croatia on paper was definitely a big team game. Not long ago Croatia were finalists. Though they seem to have fallen off hard.
Yeah I think it's just age and there's a few teams this year who are sort of just post or towards the very end of golden generations. And broadly they seem to be playing the old hits again v trying to bring in new players. I'm not sure if Croatia have young players coming through.
But with England-Croatia I found it kind of poignant seeing Modric get subbed off in the first round of subs.
Quote from: Norgy on June 23, 2026, 10:51:16 AMIt has of course been called nationalistic and fascist already. I find it more funny.
I bet it's not enough for Kristian 'Varg' Vikernes. :P Assuming he cares for football, which I doubt, but I will be happily proven wrong.
Quote from: Jacob on June 23, 2026, 12:55:27 PMOn viking stuff I feel the same as I do about the national flag. Use it. It doesn't belong to the fascists and I don't think we should let them take our symbols.
This
Blocking the goalies kick when you're 4 ahead is kind of a dick head move.
Quote from: Jacob on June 23, 2026, 12:55:27 PMOn viking stuff I feel the same as I do about the national flag. Use it. It doesn't belong to the fascists and I don't think we should let them take our symbols.
Yep. You sure as shit shouldn't let right wing morons take ownership of all of Norse History. They don't actually know jack shit about it anyway.
Quote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 01:39:05 PMBlocking the goalies kick when you're 4 ahead is kind of a dick head move.
It is the World Cup, not a charity event. Sucks to suck.
Quote from: Valmy on June 23, 2026, 01:53:10 PMQuote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 01:39:05 PMBlocking the goalies kick when you're 4 ahead is kind of a dick head move.
It is the World Cup, not a charity event. Sucks to suck.
Maybe it's just the Canadian in me :D
Quote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 01:54:17 PMQuote from: Valmy on June 23, 2026, 01:53:10 PMQuote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 01:39:05 PMBlocking the goalies kick when you're 4 ahead is kind of a dick head move.
It is the World Cup, not a charity event. Sucks to suck.
Maybe it's just the Canadian in me :D
Pissed that you did not jinx the Selecção or is it because of Ronaldo's goals? :P
Meaning more Ronaldo playing 95 minutes again.
Pfft, if anything Valmy was the official football jinx :P
And I'm glad he scored. One because I like him, and two because now he'll stop sulking :D
Quote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 02:21:48 PMPfft, if anything Valmy was the official football jinx :P
And I'm glad he scored. One because I like him, and two because now he'll stop sulking :D
Quote from: Valmy on June 23, 2026, 01:53:10 PMQuote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 01:39:05 PMBlocking the goalies kick when you're 4 ahead is kind of a dick head move.
It is the World Cup, not a charity event. Sucks to suck.
Ronaldo doing some pressing? At last! :P
Plus access to the second round might depend on a single goal, as in ending first, second or third.
I thought they downgraded goal differential in this tournament? Now head to head results take priority, isn't it?
Quote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 02:30:53 PMI thought they downgraded goal differential in this tournament? Now head to head results take priority, isn't it?
Yes, but goals still count. There is still the Congo-Colombia to play before starting calculations for the last game day.
Not a lot going on in the England Ghana game
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 23, 2026, 04:20:11 PMNot a lot going on in the England Ghana game
There's a Ghanaian kid with a World Cup who's been shown on the screen a few times. The commentator noted that every time that kid comes up on the big screen in the stadium everyone gives a big cheer, "he's the only winner of the night so far" :lol:
Ghana are looking good defensively, difficult to break down. Definitely feel like Madueke swapping and Saka coming on might help create a bit of space.
Edit: Also think Pickford was very lucky to get a free kick when he camer out.
My colleague told me England would smash Ghana. I said don't count chickens. ^_^
Uh oh. Little chink in the armor there England.
For those so interested Trevor Noah has been doing some fun watch alongs on his YouTube channel. If you don't feel like watching two hour long recaps then the shorts are entertaining too.
My favourite part of the World Cup so far is watching Thierry's face when he has to say something positive about Ronaldo :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 23, 2026, 07:07:01 PMMy favourite part of the World Cup so far is watching Thierry's face when he has to say something positive about Ronaldo :lol:
Something something Arsenal v Man U in 2005, involving the both of them. :P
Quote from: Valmy on June 23, 2026, 01:51:58 PMQuote from: Jacob on June 23, 2026, 12:55:27 PMOn viking stuff I feel the same as I do about the national flag. Use it. It doesn't belong to the fascists and I don't think we should let them take our symbols.
Yep. You sure as shit shouldn't let right wing morons take ownership of all of Norse History. They don't actually know jack shit about it anyway.
I agree. That said, a big bald guy with me - I wear anything with runes, people will automatically assume I'm a nazi. Unless I wear an "I'm not a nazi" or "Take back the runes from nazis" t-shirt or something :P
I keep joking to my Indian colleague that he should adorn his home with swastikas for Hindu holidays. We agreed that since he's living in the countryside he might actually be better integrated that way. :P
Then again, who knows. The communist mayor of Graz (actually, current Austrian commies are more like old school social democrats these days) got re-elected, with a load of votes from "classical" FPÖ voters. :D
Ghana - Croatia should actually be a worthwhile 3rd match I guess.
Such a dull England game. And the water break shenanigans. Ugh. Commentator actually laying into the fact it's all about adverts.
(https://i.ibb.co/jtmDyx4/image.png)
Fifa is probably pissed it's not hotter in NA to justify this stupid cash grab hydration breaks.
Did enjoy the commentary about the hydration break in the pouring rain in New Jersey last night :lol:
I like the hydration breaks. It shatters the illusion that soccer is continuous and I like what it can do to the clock management in the future.
The Swiss <_<
Worried for Scotland who might get through as a third placed team even if they lose, as long as it's not too heavy a defeat (this feels like a very Scottish position to be in :(). It would be their first time out of the group stage if they can contain the loss.
Although insane that Scotland's got to the World Cup eight times and played Brazil in the World Cup five times :ph34r:
Feel bad for Korea. They might still go through. Also annoyed SA went through. They haven't been punished for the vuvuzela enough yet.
I'm not sure what Korea was doing the last 2 games. Absolutely dreadful. No urgency, terrible tactically. They might go through but they certainly don't deserve it. Awful, awful watch.
Scotland were poor, even out Englanding England. :bowler:
One of the worst team performance of this WC, they don't deserve to through.
By the way congrats to Canada for advancing for the first time, even in defeat.
Considering only 1/3 of teams get eliminated in the group stage that achievement may have lost some luster.
Hey well take what we can get :D . First multi goal game, first points (including a win). Minnows eat where they can :lol: .
Quote from: Syt on June 24, 2026, 11:15:14 PMConsidering only 1/3 of teams get eliminated in the group stage that achievement may have lost some luster.
They would have gone through in the old days. They finished second in their group.
As things stand if Scotland go through and both win their second round games, in round 3 it would be England vs Scotland :/
Are there 8 teams that will finish their group games with a worse record than Scotland though? IIRC they're at 3 points and and -3 GD. Not great.
Iirc they're being given a 46% chance of qualifying.
I do remember hearing at the start the way things were a single win would probably get you through.
Quote from: Zoupa on June 25, 2026, 03:32:36 AMAre there 8 teams that will finish their group games with a worse record than Scotland though? IIRC they're at 3 points and and -3 GD. Not great.
They just have to beat 4 other teams, no? 8 out of 12 number threes go through.
*edit nvm, misread that.
Quote from: Zoupa on June 24, 2026, 10:02:10 PMI'm not sure what Korea was doing the last 2 games. Absolutely dreadful. No urgency, terrible tactically. They might go through but they certainly don't deserve it. Awful, awful watch.
Apparently Korea and Korean fans are in a meltdown because the KFA bypassed their manager hiring process the ensure a Korean coach was hired. Unfortunately Hong was the best they had. Even though he sucked so bad in 2014 that it caused it's own little scandal.
I wonder if we'll get a third with only 2 points, as in Mexico '86.
Quote from: Zoupa on June 25, 2026, 03:32:36 AMAre there 8 teams that will finish their group games with a worse record than Scotland though? IIRC they're at 3 points and and -3 GD. Not great.
It really isn't and there's been very good, very legitimate criticism of the people running Scottish football - Ian Wright was great on this.
As Jos says before the game one of the sports stats numbers ran the numbers and said losing 3-0 would basically be a 50/50 chance of going through. But having watched Scotland - I am not sure that the other teams who haven't yet played won't have more desire and know it's open.
Quote from: Zoupa on June 24, 2026, 10:02:10 PMI'm not sure what Korea was doing the last 2 games. Absolutely dreadful. No urgency, terrible tactically. They might go through but they certainly don't deserve it. Awful, awful watch.
My students looked shell shocked after that last match. Very disappointing after a spirited first match against the Czechs.
I watched the game with Czechs last night. I couldn't believe that team came from the same country that had a legion fighting its way through Russia 100 years ago. It seems like the mere sight of Mexican players knocked them to the ground writhing in pain.
South Africa? We got a chance baby! :Canuck:
Quote from: DGuller on June 25, 2026, 09:15:11 AMI watched the game with Czechs last night. I couldn't believe that team came from the same country that had a legion fighting its way through Russia 100 years ago. It seems like the mere sight of Mexican players knocked them to the ground writhing in pain.
Yeah they are really bad. Kind of amazing a team that shitty from Europe made it all the way to the World Cup.
Quote from: HVC on June 25, 2026, 09:44:08 AMSouth Africa? We got a chance baby! :Canuck:
All the hosts are basically guaranteed a third place opponent.
Edit: obviously not true
Jokes on you, canada wasn't good enough to score a 3rd place opponent in the knockout round :P
Quote from: DGuller on June 25, 2026, 09:15:11 AMI watched the game with Czechs last night. I couldn't believe that team came from the same country that had a legion fighting its way through Russia 100 years ago. It seems like the mere sight of Mexican players knocked them to the ground writhing in pain.
A legion that returned to Czechoslovakia by fighting its way
East through Russia :lol: :ph34r:
Czech football is one that moves in waves, like Hungary's. Right now both are sort of on a downturn, compared to the historical trend. Let's say that Czechoslovakia has played EC and WC finals and won the EC since the Czech legion.
I, for one, has let my inner racist out apparently, by feeling some joy over Turkey's miserable results.
Also Qatar and Saddie Arabiata.
Ecuador-Germany is very fun so far.
ECUADOR! :w00t: Fully deserved they've been fantastic.
Edit: I'd add slightly surprised by Neuer on both Ecuador goals.
QuoteThe hundreds of Ecuador fans packed into the Fifa fan park under the Brooklyn bridge have just gone crazy at that goal. German fans don't seem too bothered about it as they have nothing to gain. Some were even celebrating with the Ecuadorians. Extraordinary.
There are times when even BBC journalists should identify the sex of certain people. :lol:
Ok so maybe we aren't going to crush everybody by multiple goals on our way to World Cup glory after all.
You have got to be fucking kidding me man.
Quote from: Valmy on June 25, 2026, 11:47:38 PMYou have got to be fucking kidding me man.
The US were already through. Did they rest any players?
Norway's going to rest seven players against France. :glare:
Quote from: Norgy on June 26, 2026, 01:31:45 AMQuote from: Valmy on June 25, 2026, 11:47:38 PMYou have got to be fucking kidding me man.
The US were already through. Did they rest any players?
Norway's going to rest seven players against France. :glare:
Including Dolph er., Haaland?
:thumbsdown:
Well, cine-club night it is then.
Probably both Haaland and Ødegaard. Most of the team was cramping up so badly during and after the Senegal match, the medical staff has put the players on more fluids and salts. But this would be the same for all teams, right? :huh:
Norway could theoretically draw Sweden in the next round, it seems. That would be an epic battle. :ph34r:
I am unsure what mr. Solbakken means when he says rest, whether it is not even having the players on the bench as subs or just changing the starting line-up.
It could mean offering some of the more fringe players a chance to grab a spot in the team, though. We will see. It is the first match for Norway not starting at an ungodly hour, so I will watch tonight.
Quote from: Valmy on June 25, 2026, 11:47:38 PMYou have got to be fucking kidding me man.
Blame sheilbh :P
Bosnia knocked out Italy, now they must continue their journey.
Fun fact. Sunderland is the Premier League team whose players have scored the most goals at the world cup. :bowler:
I suppose Norway's second team is rather shit. :lol:
Fabulous goal from Pape Gueye the second he came on for Senegal :)
Edit: And another one :w00t: :lol: Think that's very good for Senegal's third place chances.
Scotland's out, then.
Norway had plenty of chances and gave away plenty of chances too, and when that big minging Crystal Palace lump can't even score on a penalty, let alone hit the goal after already almost kicking a French defender's head off, we're rather stuck.
Norway's defence is what will sink this ship. With all those rowing in it.
Quote from: Josquius on June 26, 2026, 03:36:39 AMFun fact. Sunderland is the Premier League team whose players have scored the most goals at the world cup. :bowler:
Well before last nights matches, the most individual scorers from each clubs was:
Paris SG - 6
Liverpool -5
Sunderland - 4 Crystal Palace - 4
Berlin -3
etc.
Don't know how the recent games have changed this.
Just shows you the 'strength' of the EPL.
Cabo Verde! :w00t:
Now get to play Argentina which is an incredible journey for them.
Yeah their reward for making history for their club is Argentina in the knock outs lol
Quote from: HVC on June 26, 2026, 10:14:54 PMYeah their reward for making history for their club is Argentina in the knock outs lol
:D
Still they are making it to the knockouts, something Scotland likely can't say.
Quote from: HVC on June 26, 2026, 10:14:54 PMYeah their reward for making history for their club is Argentina in the knock outs lol
We finally made it to the knockout round in 1994 after...I don't know 60 years or something. And we got Brazil. So that seems fair to me.
So Germany will play Paraguay next and then the winner from France Vs Sweden. I guess France is the strongest team in the tournament, so I guess that's where it ends.
Also with Cabo Verde - the journey probably ends there. But it ends with them playing against the reigning champions and sharing the pitch with the best player in the world. There are worse knock out rounds to be had.
I think France look ominous. But I always feel like Spain start slow and tend to build into tournaments. Also I think Argentina look very good basically just all revolving around Messi (finally answering the question we've all pondered of what Atletico Madrid plus Messi would look like :lol:).
In a funny timeline cabo verde wins in penalties :D
It is going to be tough to beat France. That forward line is world class, not just Mbappé.
However, defensively, there are some holes in the Maginot Line. I am not sure how much Germany is set back by the injury to one of the centre backs.
Morocco is a dark horse and might end up in a final.
There is, however, much football left to be played. Australia are through, and have one of the better chants of the tournament. "Aussie boys are on a bender, Donald Trump is a sex offender".
Norway's going to Dallas or Houston, I forget which, to play the Ivory Coast. That might be a very tough game.
Quote from: Norgy on June 27, 2026, 11:37:28 AMThere is, however, much football left to be played. Australia are through, and have one of the better chants of the tournament. "Aussie boys are on a bender, Donald Trump is a sex offender".
There is a far more x-rated/rude English chant about Trump too :ph34r:
Does it include the words "piles" and "files" and almost a mention of Canute? :lol: :bowler:
Quote from: Norgy on June 27, 2026, 02:05:40 PMDoes it include the words "piles" and "files" and almost a mention of Canute? :lol: :bowler:
:lol: That's the one.
Edit: Should say I heard about it with English fans - but suspect it may be a British chant because I can well imagine Scots getting involved in that :lol: :ph34r:
Heard a couple of complaints about it - I think raised by France for example - but the pitch at this stadium doesn't look good. So inevitably it's the one hosting the final :blink: :bleeding:
Also looks like it's pissing down and very grey so couldn't do without those hydration breaks <_<
Glad they decided not to use a sun/rain guard on the on field camera in the england game. Rain drops on the lense give a nice gritty cinema feel. Who needs to watch the action <_<
Also while unlikely a Panama victory would be hilarious. Would quiet down the annoying subsection of "it's coming home" english fans.
That subsection has existed long before Baddiel and Skinner made the song.
After 1966, I believe there were 20 years where the English just could not fathom that other countries improved. Failed to qualify during the period English teams were rampaging through the European Cup. And before. Knocked out by Poland for the 1974 World Cup. This seemed a low ebb, I suppose, but worse was to come.
Quote from: Norgy on June 27, 2026, 05:03:18 PMThat subsection has existed long before Baddiel and Skinner made the song.
After 1966, I believe there were 20 years where the English just could not fathom that other countries improved. Failed to qualify during the period English teams were rampaging through the European Cup. And before. Knocked out by Poland for the 1974 World Cup. This seemed a low ebb, I suppose, but worse was to come.
Yeah - I think the nadir was Roy Hodgson's team being knocked out of the Euros by Iceland at the tail end of a "golden generation". Then Sam Allardyce coming in. And of course the song itself is bittersweet, though the use may not be (hardly the first song to be wistful and ironic and turned into something triumphal by stadiums joining in - see the entire career of Bruce Springsteen :lol:). Plus it's from the 96 Euros so it's also part of football cleaning up its act and properly clamping down on hooliganism and racism as well as, from 1990 becoming more middle class/national.
It's interesting the perspective overseas - there's a BBC adaptation of the James Graham play about Southgate, Dear England (totaly aside he also wrote Sherwood which is a fantastic post-miner's strike drama). Haven't seen the show but the play was fantastic. And it kind of gets the cultural reset under Southgate which was partly about expectations being so low that there wasn't pressure which allowed England to play well - which is where the recent revival comes from (starting in 2018). It started as a joke and then grew. I think at this point is almost trying to get that moment of surprise back (while the expectation/pressure on the team has crept back in). It's why if we go any further or have good performances I quite like the new songs coming in like Wonderwall and Hey Jude v that and Sweet Caroline.
On that side there's a documentary recently about the "golden generation" and just how much they hated playing for England, didn't like each other, felt hounded by the press. I think at the Ghana game they mentioned at the start stuff like Tuchel and Kane going to a baseball game (and Tuchel throwing the first pitch) and it looking like a nice, slightly relaxing team-building exercise. Wayne Rooney was one of the pundits and he said that's exactly what it is - but it was worth noting that if the teams he was in had done that they'd have been crucified by the media for not taking it seriously/slacking. And he's right (the England team being merely one of the many institutions almost utterly destroyed by a feral press).
That England victory was against one of the half-dozen worst performing teams in the WC, so hardly convincing.
Well I can tell you that Colombia's defense is better than Uzbekistan's :D
Poor Uzbekistan :(
Edit: Spoke too soon :lol: But still feel for them.
Colombia-Portugal is very fun.
Loved James Rodriguez when he was with us - but also a player I slightly forget about between World Cups. And still very good.
Started slow. Last 10 or so minutes picked up.
Slowed down again
Way offside again. I blame Duque :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 07:53:10 PMWay offside again. I blame Duque :lol:
Instead of blaming O Táctico and his choice of relying on too many « Saudians », obviously. :P
Think he'll put Ramos in in the 91st minute? :lol:
While grateful, that looked onside.
Very. Haven't seen the VAR picture yet.
Edit: Just come up - a toe.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 08:27:13 PMVery. Haven't seen the VAR picture yet.
Here they just showed a quick replay and pause.
Oh there it is, literally a toenails width offside. Think the linesman was luckier then he was good hah
Korea is officially out of the games.
Best 0-0 I've seen in a long time :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 08:29:24 PMBest 0-0 I've seen in a long time :lol:
Infuriating for some fans :mad:
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:20:45 PMThink he'll put Ramos in in the 91st minute? :lol:
Rhetorical? :P
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:28:27 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 08:27:13 PMVery. Haven't seen the VAR picture yet.
Here they just showed a quick replay and pause.
Oh there it is, literally a toenails width offside. Think the linesman was luckier then he was good hah
Maybe the defeat could have done some good.
Instead, Martínez will claim a good tie or moral victory.
Selecção as second won't get to the better half of the decisive phase of the tournament and could end in the round of 16, if not earlier.
Looks like portugal plays croatia. Battle of the aging stars :P
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:41:26 PMLooks like portugal plays croatia. Battle of the aging stars :P
Good memories of 2016.
Well, the overtime . Specially, the last minutes. :P
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:31:12 PMInfuriating for some fans :mad:
Fair - fun for neutrals.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 09:03:20 PMQuote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:31:12 PMInfuriating for some fans :mad:
Fair - fun for neutrals.
HVC should be happy to get to watch the Selecção in Toronto vs Croatia. :lol:
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 27, 2026, 09:01:53 PMQuote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:41:26 PMLooks like portugal plays croatia. Battle of the aging stars :P
Good memories of 2016.
Well, the overtime . Specially, the last minutes. :P
They get Spain next if they take out croatia. If they had won then it was have been Argentina in the quarterfinals.. if they got that far.
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 09:09:39 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 27, 2026, 09:01:53 PMQuote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 08:41:26 PMLooks like portugal plays croatia. Battle of the aging stars :P
Good memories of 2016.
Well, the overtime . Specially, the last minutes. :P
They get Spain next if they take out croatia. If they had won then it was have been Argentina in the quarterfinals.. if they got that far.
Yep, Ghana instead of Croatia in the round of 32.
Winning? :lol: Diogo Costa saved the tie, many times.
So Martinez was just saving portugal from having to face Argentina :ph34r:
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 09:14:18 PMSo Martinez was just saving portugal from having to face Argentina :ph34r:
FIFA,TVs, ad agencies etc., not happy. :P
In petty news uruguay football federation has canceled the charter flight home for the players :shutup:
Quote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 11:31:43 PMIn petty news uruguay football federation has canceled the charter flight home for the players :shutup:
It's Uruguay, not Iran, so ICE could not intervene to provide free transportation to the homeland :P
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 28, 2026, 12:21:32 AMQuote from: HVC on June 27, 2026, 11:31:43 PMIn petty news uruguay football federation has canceled the charter flight home for the players :shutup:
It's Uruguay, not Iran, so ICE could not intervene to provide free transportation to the homeland :P
A bunch of brown people with a lapsed work visa and no return ticket. What's the worst that can happen in Trump's America? :ph34r:
Austria made it to the next round by scoring the equalizing 3-3 against Algeria in injury time.
Their opponents in the next round - Spain. :D
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 08:29:24 PMBest 0-0 I've seen in a long time :lol:
I agree completely. What a great game
On the knockout round, the best Canada can hope for is winning two games and then have a glorious loss to France.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 06:42:39 PMPoor Uzbekistan :(
Edit: Spoke too soon :lol: But still feel for them.
Their loss eliminated Korea.
Folks here are going to eat the coach alive. They expected to make the round of 16 at least. On paper this was definitely their best world cup team ever.
Quote from: Syt on June 28, 2026, 04:27:28 AMAustria made it to the next round by scoring the equalizing 3-3 against Algeria in injury time.
Their opponents in the next round - Spain. :D
Seems par for the course, following a high-grade Gijón game vs Algeria, no less. :P
Just saw the first Algerian goal... that had to be the weirdest series of events I've seen in a WC game :lmfao:
Entertaining game so far. Both teams trying to score. Canada got very close with a miffed header.
The Canadians should try to switch the ball to the wings a bit more often. South Africa is compact in the middle.
Is the crowd booing the SA goalie holding the ball, or because canada is not rushing the goalie?
Christ, that is a horrible set-piece.
I'd say Canada would deserve a goal by now.
Penalty
Guess not
Even with all the angles and replays I couldn't say if it was a penalty or not.
Would be a harsh one but a case could be made for sure.
South Africa are rather rubbish.
If the situation had been VAR-ed, I could argue for a penalty, despite the attacking player just running into a poorly timed tackle with very limited control over the ball.
I like Canada's hustle. It's not a lazy team, that's for sure. Pretty entertaining game so far too.
Not a strong start for Canada in the second half...
After 60 minutes plus, my money is on RSA. Neither team is playing well. RSA are slightly better.
Yeah Canada is definitely slowing down.
Dammit that's the second time clear goal was denied.
RSA have been very negative for a while now. Going for the shoot-out, I suppose.
:Canuck: :showoff:
:w00t:
Edit: Incidentally the commentators mentioned a few times about Marsch "dividing opinion" a few times. Have there been controversies in Canada about him - or is it maybe just a legacy from when he was at Leeds?
:hug:
Congratulations to Languish' cannucks :)
Deserved win overall I think. Although as soon as Davies came on, 90% of the play was "try to pass him the ball". That'll have to change for the next game.
RSA seemed to be waiting for penalties, so screw them. To dare is to do!
Canada's 24 striker would've lost his place in my team for general incompetency, but it was a deserved win. Nice strike, too. Canada's 7 man of the match for me. I do question both teams' tactical choices, though, but in the end Canadian pluck beat South Africa's rather negative and cynical time-wasting/counter-attacks (that were poorly executed despite having 5 or 6 players against 3 or 4).
South Africa's right back, 20, he looked so much older than a lot of the players. I imagined him being a homicide police in Cape Town, nearing retirement. I am sure he had a Marlboro after the game.
As a fan I rate pluck fairly high. If they're working hard and trying to attack, then we can hold our heads high - win or lose.
That said, Canada could really use a proper striker or two. Someone who can get the ball and finish accurately without having to touch the ball a couple of times first.
Quote from: Jacob on June 28, 2026, 06:20:49 PMAs a fan I rate pluck fairly high. If they're working hard and trying to attack, then we can hold our heads high - win or lose.
That Saud, Canada could really use a proper striker or two. Someone who can get the ball and finish accurately without having to touch the ball a couple of times first.
Yeah this has been Canada's issue for the last year or so. A healthy Davies, although not a striker, can provide better balls into the box though.
In any case, realistically Canada is not going to win v Holland or Morocco, so the next game is a bonus
All any team now needs to do to be world champions is win their next five games. :)
Quote from: mongers on June 28, 2026, 07:49:32 PMAll any team now needs to do to be world champions is win their next five games. :)
All someone needs to do is flap their arms fast enough and anyone can fly :P
Quote from: HVC on June 28, 2026, 08:22:13 PMQuote from: mongers on June 28, 2026, 07:49:32 PMAll any team now needs to do to be world champions is win their next five games. :)
All someone needs to do is flap their arms fast enough and anyone can fly :P
:hmm:
I might give your idea more consideration.
Canada winning a knock out round match? Never though I would see the day.
I see that if England beat DRC they are highly likely to face Mexico in Mexico City. Which is at an altitude sufficiently high to favour Mexico (home ground too of course) :hmm:
Looks like a really tough tie.
Quote from: mongers on June 28, 2026, 07:49:32 PMAll any team now needs to do to be world champions is win their next five games. :)
Oddly enough, the WC doesn't have many cases of a true underdog team just getting hot/lucky enough to carry the trophy home. It's just 4 games under the old format and football is a game with a decent amount of variance.
Granted, it's once every 4 years so you don't get many rolls of the dice, but I can think of the Greece year in the EC for example.
You have popular upsets like the Maracanazo, but Uruguay was a damn good team on its own. Maybe West Germany in 1954? First time it participated since WW2, very few pros on the team - but then... It's Germany.
Maybe Morocco? They went far last time and they're still a very good team.
I'd love to see an African team take the title. Even if Mono wouldn't survive that.
I always thought Japan had the best chance to unseat the euro and South American teams. Perhaps not now but sooner than one expects. African teams crest and fall on too short a time line to make a team that can get to the finals, I think.
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 03:50:02 AMI always thought Japan had the best chance to unseat the euro and South American teams. Perhaps not now but sooner than one expects. African teams crest and fall on too short a team line to make a team that can get to the finals, I think.
I don't see Asian teams amounting to much in the near term. Their leagues and federation tournaments are just too low-level, and their players don't move to Europe the way African players do.
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on June 29, 2026, 01:33:48 AMI see that if England beat DRC they are highly likely to face Mexico in Mexico City. Which is at an altitude sufficiently high to favour Mexico (home ground too of course) :hmm:
Looks like a really tough tie.
Yes and Mexico have an incredible record at the Azteca too. On the DRC though, I'd note that the guy doing the Lumumba statue will not be at the England-DRC game because he wasn't allowed into/couldn't get a visa for the US :( <_<
Quote from: Maladict on June 29, 2026, 03:34:51 AMMaybe Morocco? They went far last time and they're still a very good team.
I'd love to see an African team take the title. Even if Mono wouldn't survive that.
Same and I think 9 of the 10 CAF qualifers have got through to the knockouts. Having said that I am strongly anti-Morocco and pro-Senegal because of the AFCON shenanigans. So I don't want them to go too far, although I think Morocco would probably have the best change - and they're a very solid team (with a lovely kit).
Quote from: celedhring on June 29, 2026, 04:02:46 AMI don't see Asian teams amounting to much in the near term. Their leagues and federation tournaments are just too low-level, and their players don't move to Europe the way African players do.
I also think there's less of a diaspora to tap into with players like Semenyo, Mbaye, Hakimi etc. I think African federations have become a lot more interested in scouting for eligible players in Europe and basically making a pitch for those players to declare for them. I think Morocco made a new record in Brazil-Morocco when not one of their players on the pitch was born in Morocco.
You've got brothers playing for different teams (Cote d'Ivoire and France or Ghana and Netherlands). And I think there's a particular story of how good France and the Netherlands are at producing good young players as I think they're the country of origin for half of the foreign-born players at this World Cup (followed, as you'd expect, by Germany, England, Sweden, Belgium and Spain - European countries with disapora communities).
Quote from: celedhring on June 29, 2026, 04:02:46 AMQuote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 03:50:02 AMI always thought Japan had the best chance to unseat the euro and South American teams. Perhaps not now but sooner than one expects. African teams crest and fall on too short a team line to make a team that can get to the finals, I think.
I don't see Asian teams amounting to much in the near term. Their leagues and federation tournaments are just too low-level, and their players don't move to Europe the way African players do.
While fair, Japan also has the knack for building strong internal leagues. See baseball. And given the fact that they don't have many international players means their performances are even more inspiring.
But like I said it's not happening this tournament :lol:
*edit* that's not to say I don't think an African nation can't win, it just seems like to me there peak generations are just to short and they fall off to fast to keep momentum.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 29, 2026, 07:50:44 AMI also think there's less of a diaspora to tap into with players like Semenyo, Mbaye, Hakimi etc. I think African federations have become a lot more interested in scouting for eligible players in Europe and basically making a pitch for those players to declare for them. I think Morocco made a new record in Brazil-Morocco when not one of their players on the pitch was born in Morocco.
You've got brothers playing for different teams (Cote d'Ivoire and France or Ghana and Netherlands). And I think there's a particular story of how good France and the Netherlands are at producing good young players as I think they're the country of origin for half of the foreign-born players at this World Cup (followed, as you'd expect, by Germany, England, Sweden, Belgium and Spain - European countries with disapora communities).
That's why there's memes going around about how this is a tournament to see whose Africans are better :D
Japan-Brazil will tell us something. Its a weak Brazil team. But getting the challenge in early for Japan. They are real dark horses with a good chance.
Though they are only 30 years into their 100 year plan to win the world cup. Though certainly are ahead of schedule in it.
https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/48945194/japan-plan-win-world-cup-2050-how-close-get-2026
Its not one I've watched more than an episode of but I know there's even an anime about this identifying that Japan's problem is a lack of a selfish striker (leading to a story which is basically Squid Game: Football Camp edition).
The Japanese domestic league is doing really well. And a lot more focussed on domestic players than China.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 29, 2026, 07:50:44 AMI also think there's less of a diaspora to tap into with players like Semenyo, Mbaye, Hakimi etc. I think African federations have become a lot more interested in scouting for eligible players in Europe and basically making a pitch for those players to declare for them. I think Morocco made a new record in Brazil-Morocco when not one of their players on the pitch was born in Morocco.
You've got brothers playing for different teams (Cote d'Ivoire and France or Ghana and Netherlands). And I think there's a particular story of how good France and the Netherlands are at producing good young players as I think they're the country of origin for half of the foreign-born players at this World Cup (followed, as you'd expect, by Germany, England, Sweden, Belgium and Spain - European countries with disapora communities).
Yeah, I've heard some African countries have been doing very well at this. Sadiki played for Belgium at youth level and is undoubtedly at the level to make the full team, but decided to choose Congo instead.
Asians....I think it is happening albeit at a lower level. I've heard a lot of Pakistan for instance recruiting players in the English 5th tier and the like.
A big problem a lot of Asian countries have is they have laws against dual nationality which makes it complicated- India and China could potentially have a decent dysphoria team but for this.
On the other hand I recall at the last women's WC the Philippines was basically all Americans.
Luke O'Nien of Sunderland is a grand nephew of a prominent Singaporean politician and is certainly not getting an England callup but due to passport rules can't play for Singapore.
Though checking up apparently Congo doesn't allow dual nationality. Wonder what they do differently :hmm:
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 28, 2026, 07:25:22 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 27, 2026, 06:42:39 PMPoor Uzbekistan :(
Edit: Spoke too soon :lol: But still feel for them.
Their loss eliminated Korea.
Folks here are going to eat the coach alive. They expected to make the round of 16 at least. On paper this was definitely their best world cup team ever.
Looks like your president is calling for an investigation. Which seems weird. There was already one and the KFA decided to do nothing about it.
So, Argentina has a easy path to the semis as least. Here's hoping for an upset!
I feel like Argentina will be hopelessly exposed by any organized team that can play at a decent tempo.
I'm hoping for a humiliating defeat to cabo verde in penalties :lol:
And quiet Duque :P
Quote from: mongers on June 27, 2026, 06:22:13 PMThat England victory was against one of the half-dozen worst performing teams in the WC, so hardly convincing.
Just on this - we've had the worst performing team bit of my sweepstake - and I want to slightly defend the honour of Panama. They came last in their group and didn't get any points - but they only conceded four goals across three games (against, I think, three pretty good teams) and compared to some of the batterings that have been handed out I'm not sure they're that bad. Very solid and hard working in defence, not got the attacking talent to make many chances (and England conceded a few). But I think in a kinder draw for them they would have done pretty well.
With England - I still think the defence is a problem and I don't think there's a clear solution (Tuchel may find one - he's a very good coach). Plus with injuries there's only two fit full-backs left. In all three games England gave away easy chances and I think as the opposition gets tougher that will be punished. Also not sure the wingers have been fixed as an issue - Rashford and Saka better and we know (from other tournaments and clubs) can do better still - but nothing's really been convincing there so far. Gordon in particular has been pretty poor (as an Everton fan I thought we did very well to get £50 million for him from Newcastle and - sorry cel - I have no idea how he's ended up at Barca for £80 million....there must be something in the data or that real football people can see in him but I don't understand it :hmm:). On the upside I think the first team midfield of Rice, Belligham and Anderson is working well and those players and Kane seem to be in good form - having said that I alo think they are players that I think should perform better against "better" opposition (a bit like Croatia compared to Panama).
The other thing is that I think so far only France and maybe Argentina have really looked convincing. Other teams will grow into the tournament but I think all of other prominent teams like Spain, Germany, Brazil etc have question marks after the group stage. I think with Spain especially they often grow into a tournament and start slowly and build momentum - but maybe not, maybe those question marks are valid. But I think at the minute France just look very, very ominous for anyone else.
Brazil's put Japan under siege.
I can't help thinking this is one of the weaker Brazilian sides fielded this century.
Brazil needs more kids from the favelas.
What a goal by Japan!
Quote from: Norgy on June 29, 2026, 12:08:32 PMBrazil's put Japan under siege.
I can't help thinking this is one of the weaker Brazilian sides fielded this century.
Yeah. I love the Ancelotti-Endrick gags though.
Ah too bad.
Yeah it was coming - and no idea how there wasn't a goal from the Brazilian scramble and then Japanese counter.
Fantastic from Vinicius Jr - and a great save too.
Enjoying this.
This will surely be remembered as the World Cup with all those goals in added time. :lol:
oh no :(
Ah well. That would have been cool. No Samurai Japan in the World Cup.
Quote from: Valmy on June 29, 2026, 02:07:15 PMAh well. That would have been cool. No Samurai Japan in the World Cup.
It was a noble exit. Japan couldn't stop Argentina, but Brazil might :contract:
Besides, while it hurts now, they have bragging rights over Korea and that's enough for now :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 02:09:15 PMIt was a noble exit. Japan couldn't stop Argentina, but Brazil might :contract:
This version of Brazil? Nah.
QuoteBesides, while it hurts now, they have bragging rights over Korea and that's enough for now :lol:
It is what is most important in the end -_-
But I don't know. It would have been cool to see Japan do it.
Quote from: Valmy on June 29, 2026, 02:16:33 PMQuote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 02:09:15 PMIt was a noble exit. Japan couldn't stop Argentina, but Brazil might :contract:
This version of Brazil? Nah.
:( Don't get me wrong, Argentina isn't one of the evil two that should never prosper (looking at you England and Netherlands), I just don't want to deal with their fans :lol:
QuoteQuoteBesides, while it hurts now, they have bragging rights over Korea and that's enough for now :lol:
It is what is most important in the end -_-
But I don't know. It would have been cool to see Japan do it.
Oh under different circumstances I'd have been ecstatic with a Japanese victory, even against Brazil.
Argentina is #1 so of course we all want to see them fail just for that reason. I get it.
Quote from: Norgy on June 29, 2026, 01:57:58 PMThis will surely be remembered as the World Cup with all those goals in added time. :lol:
Better then passing the ball around waiting for penalties ;)
I have faith in Columbia to stop the Argentinian, they know the enemy well.
Some commentators and experts seem to think Argentina is eminently stoppable if they meet an opponent with more pace than they have met so far, and with someone who marks Messi out of the game. I don't know.
I think Japan did what they should do against Brazil, and for 50 minutes of match time, they had their opponents by the throat. As far as I know, there is a great affinity with Brazilian players in the J-League of Japan since it kicked off, with among others, true legend Zico coming out of retirement to play there. Next time, the apprentice will beat the master.
While maybe not the most fancied side among bookmakers and experts, there is Germany. As Gary Lineker is reported to have said, football is a game of 22 players and in the end Germany wins.
It is early days, but from what I have seen, France remain rock solid favourites to win. That 1-4 bashing Norway took is not the primary reason, more the French attacking players Mbappé and Olise. They have extreme skills each that compliment well.
Always quite enjoy Paraguay - very solid defensively, as you'd expect from a team that has to play Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay twice to qualify for anything. I think they have some insane record of 1-0s where they basically score early-ish and then lock down.
It's their Mengele legacy.
Hey, it's Languish and we've hardly touched upon WWII in this thread. :glare:
Quote from: Norgy on June 29, 2026, 04:02:37 PMIt's their Mengele legacy.
Hey, it's Languish and we've hardly touched upon WWII in this thread. :glare:
I had some tasteless bangers lined up for Argentina-Austria and thought better of it. Growth.
Paraguay up 1-0 over Germany so far.
The German coach doesn't really look the part
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 28, 2026, 04:20:09 PM:w00t:
Edit: Incidentally the commentators mentioned a few times about Marsch "dividing opinion" a few times. Have there been controversies in Canada about him - or is it maybe just a legacy from when he was at Leeds?
Not to my knowledge, no.
Also, I didn't know but apparently Marsch was a serious contender to be coach for Korea, until the billionaire in charge of the local association decided to throw out the process and pick his own guy.
This is not great - feel the referee doesn't really have a grip. Some very odd decisions - Paraguay exceptionally lucky that German goal didn't stand.
Wow :o
After the Brazil scare, we are rewarded!
Rough way to go out
Yeah penalties are the worst (and as an old man I hate modern penalties). But of all the sides to go out on penalties - I don't think Germany have ever lost a shootout before.
Especially rough as I think there's no way that extra time goal should have been disallowed.
Quote from: Jacob on June 29, 2026, 05:49:04 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 28, 2026, 04:20:09 PM:w00t:
Edit: Incidentally the commentators mentioned a few times about Marsch "dividing opinion" a few times. Have there been controversies in Canada about him - or is it maybe just a legacy from when he was at Leeds?
Not to my knowledge, no.
Also, I didn't know but apparently Marsch was a serious contender to be coach for Korea, until the billionaire in charge of the local association decided to throw out the process and pick his own guy.
Two or three other international coaches too.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 29, 2026, 06:08:22 PMThis is not great - feel the referee doesn't really have a grip. Some very odd decisions - Paraguay exceptionally lucky that German goal didn't stand.
Didn't watch the game but was it a bad ref or crooked ref?
Everyone on BBC - including the ref advisor they have locked in a VAR cupboard - agreed it was a very, very soft decision.
The ref got it right andwere called to have another look by VAR. My slight sense is it was maybe one of those were VAR saying "you might have got this wrong, take another look" kind of made him just do it. Not sure if true elsewhere but in England it's taken a while for on-field refs to actually start sticking by their decisions - there was a while when it basically felt like if VAR reviewed something the ref would go along and this reminded me of that.
I love when there is checking in my soccer game. :lol:
They're doing everything they can to mess with the flow of the game. Too many VAR checks, midhalf commercial breaks.
Did not watch the game, but sounds like a deserved exit in the news reports.
To my uneducated eye, it sure looked like the offensive player interfered with the goaltender. Now that sort of thing might be allowed and it might be OK for an offensive player to rough up the goalie a bit and so from that point of view, it might be soft, but it definitely happened.
Morocco was put the shot in net in the first half of extra time
Another shootout!
I hate penalties. They should just keep playing until someone scores
The posts are the stars of this shootout
Better team won at least.
Problem now is canada faces Morocco :cry:
Yeah, that's gonna be a really tough game
My heart wants Canada, my brain says 3-1 morocco.
I don't think the first two games will be much tomorrow, but the Mexico game can be exciting.
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 11:02:28 PMI don't think the first two games will be much tomorrow, but the Mexico game can be exciting.
Agreed, that should be the best of the day
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 10:55:01 PMBetter team won at least.
Definitely. And we still get to have wild celebrations in the streets at 5 am :lol:
Probably too hot to have them at any other time regardless :lol:
Austrian reddit is celebrating Germany's knock-out as is tradition. Though this time there's a surprising amount of push-back. Austrians posting that this is embarrassing to get so worked up about.
Some Germans posting, ".... but we were cheering for you! :( "
Other Germans posting basically the equivalent of Mad Men's "I don't think about you at all."
Big fan of Paraguay announcing a national holiday :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 30, 2026, 02:41:11 AMBig fan of Paraguay announcing a national holiday :lol:
I love the World Cup so much for stuff like this. I'm a huge fan of football cringe :D
There were some calls to make the day we won in 2010 a National Holiday, but sadly they didn't go anywhere.
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 11:02:28 PMI don't think the first two games will be much tomorrow, but the Mexico game can be exciting.
<_< :uffda:
I think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 10:01:21 AMI'm hoping for a humiliating defeat to cabo verde in penalties :lol:
And quiet Duque :P
:secret:
You are the one to shut up if Cabo Verde is to win. :P
Quote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:24:22 AMI think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Yeah, watching Norway, destroy their opposition will be entertaining for some, but the Mexican game will be the most competitive of the day, most likely.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 30, 2026, 11:37:08 AMQuote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 10:01:21 AMI'm hoping for a humiliating defeat to cabo verde in penalties :lol:
And quiet Duque :P
:secret:
You are the one to shut up if Cabo Verde is to win. :P
I'll cry loud and proud about a country i knew existed before but didn't really know anything about! It's a proud World Cup tradition since long before I was born :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 29, 2026, 11:01:51 PMMy heart wants Canada, my brain says 3-1 morocco.
Moor conflicted, eh? :D
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 30, 2026, 11:37:20 AMQuote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:24:22 AMI think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Yeah, watching Norway, destroy their opposition will be entertaining for some, but the Mexican game will be the most competitive of the day, most likely.
Yeah, as a neutral observer I think it'll just offer more excitement.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 30, 2026, 11:37:20 AMQuote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:24:22 AMI think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Yeah, watching Norway, destroy their opposition will be entertaining for some, but the Mexican game will be the most competitive of the day, most likely.
You're both wrong, this will be a tight game. Yes, the Aryan Idol is good, but he needs service and Ivory Coast are a very good team.
I hope for 2-1 Norway, but I can see us losing.
Côte d'Ivoire's backwards Irish flag aways confuses me so much. But I guess half of Europe has some variation of the Netherlands flag and the other half has some variation of Denmark's.
Now we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
I thought that asking for a card and doing the card gesture was a cardable offence in its own right?
Nice goal Vikings.
The Norwegian goal was beautiful :uffda:
Quote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
I thought the the Norwegians were the really bad ass vikings? :unsure:
And to echo the others it was a beautiful goal.
Hey beautiful goal for the beautiful game.
I think the Danes are quite adamant that they are the real Vikings. But they didn't make it to this World Cup. Sorry to rub it in. But the Vikings didn't do a good job in invading Scotland either.
Haalands been too quiet. I wanted to see lumbering power dammit :(
Collina :wub:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 30, 2026, 01:09:53 PMHey beautiful goal for the beautiful game.
I think the Danes are quite adamant that they are the real Vikings. But they didn't make it to this World Cup. Sorry to rub it in. But the Vikings didn't do a good job in invading Scotland either.
Denmark was a key viking centre and centralized earlier - and therefore were leaders in terms of organized projection of power at scale - but it doesn't make us more (or less) "real" than the inhabitants of Sweden and Norway.
As for rubbing in Denmark's failure to qualify, nothing you can say in terms of banter will rival the internal facing frustration and anger that we failed. It doesn't even register, to be honest. We fucked up, and the people responsible are idiots. That someone else thinks it's funny... good for them. Objectively it is :hug:
Regarding Vikings in Scotland, the effort was decent IMO. I mean, Scandinavians ruled the Orkneys until 1472 when they were transferred as a financial transaction to settle a dowry obligation. The Hebrides remained on Scandinavian hands until 1266.
For me, this is obviously the most exciting game so far, there is a lot riding on it.
Hard to take these small mistakes and that the ball's been hacked off the line twice by the Ivorians.
That said, the Ivorians are dangerous when they crowd the Norwegian box, and Norway's given away 14 (!!!!!) corner kicks.
The way this world cup has been going, the typical thing would be for Cote d'Ivoire to score in the added time afte 90+ minutes, but we'll see.
Quote from: Jacob on June 30, 2026, 01:33:30 PMThe way this world cup has been going, the typical thing would be for Cote d'Ivoire to score in the added time afte 90+ minutes, but we'll see.
Off by 15 or so minutes.
I was just think the norse were being too defensive.
Quote from: Norgy on June 30, 2026, 01:30:06 PMFor me, this is obviously the most exciting game so far, there is a lot riding on it.
Hard to take these small mistakes and that the ball's been hacked off the line twice by the Ivorians.
That said, the Ivorians are dangerous when they crowd the Norwegian box, and Norway's given away 14 (!!!!!) corner kicks.
Yeah it's funny how it goes. I saw a good number of of comments about how the Canada - RSA game was "awful" and "boring", but watching it I thought it was great and super intense... obviously due to my emotional investment.
Quote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
Afraid of a Norway-Spain game or what? :P
Quote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 12:38:57 PMI thought that asking for a card and doing the card gesture was a cardable offence in its own right?
Not if you're team captain. :P
Uh oh Vikings. Côte d'Ivoire equalizes.
There he is.
Dolph Lundgren err Haaland puts Norway in the lead, again.
Alrighty, then. :lol:
Why the hell are we not using our subs?
So that the Ivory Coast may show how to use them? :hmm:
Quote from: Norgy on June 30, 2026, 11:50:35 AMQuote from: crazy canuck on June 30, 2026, 11:37:20 AMQuote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:24:22 AMI think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Yeah, watching Norway, destroy their opposition will be entertaining for some, but the Mexican game will be the most competitive of the day, most likely.
You're both wrong, this will be a tight game. Yes, the Aryan Idol is good, but he needs service and Ivory Coast are a very good team.
I hope for 2-1 Norway, but I can see us losing.
You should have dropped a bet :P
Yeah, great plan, lead an addict into betting.
Oops :blush: sorry.
Quote from: Valmy on June 30, 2026, 11:55:03 AMCôte d'Ivoire's backwards Irish flag aways confuses me so much. But I guess half of Europe has some variation of the Netherlands flag and the other half has some variation of Denmark's.
I
love their badge and think they deserve to win something for it.
And a bit like Euro-flags, too many countries follow a model. Same goes for badges on football kits. Too few are experimental (also a shout-out for Mexico).
I would like to state for the record that I think both Norway's first goal and the Ivorian equaliser belong on a highlight reel of this World Cup.
Wow what a finish. Holy shit.
Though Norway did not wait until stoppage time to win it -_-
Quote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 01:06:42 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
I thought the the Norwegians were the really bad ass vikings? :unsure:
Historians, most of them, count the Viking age from the raid on Lindisfarne until the Battle of Hastings. This is, in my opinion (and it is an opinion) wrong.
The people, some proto-Norse Germanic tribes, from what today is Denmark, Norway and that lesser country called Sweden, sent the aristocrats as mercenaries to the Romans and also to fight the Romans in the 3rd and 4th century. The number of swords from the Roman Empire found in Norway alone testifies to this. Sweden has rich finds from the 7th century, same with Denmark. The decline of the 7th century hit what is now Norway hard with the change in climate. The rich finds from the 6th century are gone, there are no ship graves.
The gods were different, mostly Niorthus the fertility god was paid homage.
The conditions that were created by long winters after volcanic eruptions, probably two, led to a consolidation of aristocratic power as populations were smaller, so they needed to be controlled.
That is the beginning of the Viking age, from the late 7th century. The peasantry only became free(ish) when there were enough slaves. Going raiding was a good way of increasing the labour force.
There are signs that the Norse had traded with Lindisfarne way before the raid that Anglo-Saxons chronicled.
There are signs that the aristocracy in the Norse world travelled with their armed escorts, presented gifts and was "pan-Norse" but that most people who lived here hardly saw more than the hovels and the earth and sea they tried to eke out a living of.
The whole which country had the most badass Vikings debate is moot. Denmark was the first kingdom, Norway second around 1030 and Sweden, well, who knows and cares. Except Swedish Nazis.
Quote from: Norgy on June 30, 2026, 11:50:35 AMQuote from: crazy canuck on June 30, 2026, 11:37:20 AMQuote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:24:22 AMI think thor's Godson is gonna smash the competition, if you pardon the mixed marvel metaphors :P
Yeah, watching Norway, destroy their opposition will be entertaining for some, but the Mexican game will be the most competitive of the day, most likely.
You're both wrong, this will be a tight game. Yes, the Aryan Idol is good, but he needs service and Ivory Coast are a very good team.
I hope for 2-1 Norway, but I can see us losing.
I hope you put money on it :)
Edit, I see HVC already covered
I just want to point out that Canada has progressed further than Germany and Holland
:lol:
Swedes attempt to blackmail France: https://www.reddit.com/r/france/comments/1ujylst/alerte_enl%C3%A8vement_vid%C3%A9o_opassande/
Quote from: Josephus on June 30, 2026, 04:23:07 PMI just want to point out that Canada has progressed further than Germany and Holland
Also, Canada was the first country to every qualify from a group of 32 in the World Cup.
Swedes are better and better by each game. While it is shameful that a team can qualify without winning any actual qualifying matches, Sweden gets a pass for at least having been a decent social democratic country until the 1990s.
C'mon now, you half-lame giant, crush those nasty French! Think of how well you collaborated with the Nazis, they did not like Frenchies!
What a goal
In fairness Sweden are getting a few decent chances - but France continue to look ominous. Just very, very good.
The difference between Haaland and Mbappé is rather obvious. Haaland needs service as in a pass or a cross. Mbappe just needs a bit of space. Haaland is a Gary Lineker, while Mbappé is a Pelé.
Another fantastic goal.
Gyökeres being smashed in the nose should at the very least be a stop in play.
While I am not going to moan about VAR, the referees are too easily swayed in a lot of games.
I see no way back for Sweden, sadly. Unlike the Swedish poster here, I would like the neighbours to do well. But, yeah, France will win this World Cup. On the back of wealth from the Persian Gulf. :cry:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/Bataille_Jemmapes.jpg)
Quote from: Norgy on June 30, 2026, 05:31:54 PMI see no way back for Sweden, sadly. Unlike the Swedish poster here, I would like the neighbours to do well. But, yeah, France will win this World Cup. On the back of wealth from the Persian Gulf. :cry:
Although quite looking forward to them against Paraguay.
And assuming they go through that - and I love Canada and our Canadians - but a Morocco-France quarter final would be good :ph34r:
Valiant effort.
Wild stat that Germany, Spain and Italy's last knock-out victory was their respective World Cup finals :o
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 30, 2026, 05:54:02 PMAnd assuming they go through that - and I love Canada and our Canadians - but a Morocco-France quarter final would be good :ph34r:
I would very much enjoy an upset against Morocco, but it would be a massive upset.
Both GK will be Montreal born in that game. That's probably a first.
On to Paraguay
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/e2/59/98/e25998b812c10a87e22afb94eb793a48.jpg)
One of the few countries France has never waged war with...either as an ally or enemy.
Edit: Oh it looks like Paraguay declared war on the Axis in 1945. So there is that.
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 :lol:).
France looks unstoppable
Canada and Mexico advanced. Fuck we better win tomorrow.
Quote from: Valmy on June 30, 2026, 10:59:26 PMCanada 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.
Apart from like 2 half occasions from Sweden, this was a walk in the park. If Gyokeres and Isak are worth 100 million (lol), Barcola, Doué, Mbappé, Olise etc are worth trillions then.
Quote from: Sheilbh on June 30, 2026, 08:43:24 PMAlthough 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 :lol:).
Weren't all the independence movements in South America inspired by the French Revolution to some degree? :P
Even Haiti's revolution against France was inspired by the French revolution :lol:
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.
Quote from: Syt on July 01, 2026, 12:32:04 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 30, 2026, 08:43:24 PMAlthough 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 :lol:).
Weren't all the independence movements in South America inspired by the French Revolution to some degree? :P
Well that and they were directly caused by Napoleon invading Spain.
:lol: 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.
I'm totally missing all these second round games. First one is too early as busy with kids and second is too late.
Quote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 11:02:53 PMQuote from: Valmy on June 30, 2026, 10:59:26 PMCanada 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
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 03:44:32 AM:lol: 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.
:lol: 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.
I can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico :P
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 09:23:58 AMI can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico :P
I'll go with the usual, they'll defeat themselves. :bowler:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 09:12:37 AM:lol: 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?
Quote from: mongers on July 01, 2026, 09:37:21 AMQuote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 09:23:58 AMI can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico :P
I'll go with the usual, they'll defeat themselves. :bowler:
I think Mexico will be more heart wrenching :bowler: ^_^
Quote from: Syt on July 01, 2026, 12:49:04 AMChancellor 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.
:yeah:
Crikey!
Quote from: Valmy on July 01, 2026, 03:31:13 AMQuote from: Syt on July 01, 2026, 12:32:04 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on June 30, 2026, 08:43:24 PMAlthough 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 :lol:).
Weren't all the independence movements in South America inspired by the French Revolution to some degree? :P
Well that and they were directly caused by Napoleon invading Portugal through Spain, then Spain while he was at it. :P
Fixed! :D
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 09:23:58 AMI can't decide if I want England to lose to Congo or Mexico :P
Either will do. :P
Still, way too early to launch fireworks.
Something I often ponder has come to me again.
Assuming we can perfectly copy players and there's no transfers. If we dropped international teams into the PL how would they do?
I do fear England would be basically Spurs.
I'm afraid the Three Lions will tie the game, at least.
Quote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 11:30:02 AMSomething I often ponder has come to me again.
Assuming we can perfectly copy players and there's no transfers. If we dropped international teams into the PL how would they do?
I do fear England would be basically Spurs.
Wrexham. Lots of hype. Lots of media. More attention than it deserves :P
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 01, 2026, 11:35:44 AMI'm afraid the Three Lions will tie the game, at least.
They're going into penalty dive mode.
Textbook penalty for England surely there. :/
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 01, 2026, 11:35:44 AMI'm afraid the Three Lions will tie the game, at least.
Some fantastic saves and defending - particularly Wan-Bissaka.
Quote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 11:43:59 AMTextbook penalty for England surely there. :/
Only if you give the yellow card to the turf :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 11:45:05 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 11:43:59 AMTextbook penalty for England surely there. :/
Only if you give the yellow card to the turf :lol:
Keeper clearly grabbed Kanes leg.
Quote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 11:46:54 AMQuote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 11:45:05 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 11:43:59 AMTextbook penalty for England surely there. :/
Only if you give the yellow card to the turf :lol:
Keeper clearly grabbed Kanes leg.
He started going down after he kicked the ground. Thought he made contact with a player and started going down with Visions of a penalty kick in his eyes :D
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 11:49:44 AMHe started going down after he kicked the ground. Thought he made contact with a player and started going down with Visions of a penalty kick in his eyes :D
Dispute among the pundits :lol: Wayne Rooney agrees with you.
Edit: Also enjoy the optimistic chyron updates like "England hasn't won a knock-out World Cup game after conceding first since the 1966 final against West Germany" :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 11:59:17 AMQuote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 11:49:44 AMHe started going down after he kicked the ground. Thought he made contact with a player and started going down with Visions of a penalty kick in his eyes :D
Dispute among the pundits :lol: Wayne Rooney agrees with you.
Maybe I was wrong about good old Wayne :D
Quote from: Syt on July 01, 2026, 12:49:04 AMChancellor 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.
:lol: I'm not sure what else he's supposed to say to be honest. "Shame about the result but you played and we're still so proud of you" feels like fairly standard comms. Edit: I'm not sure that the head of government laying into the team a la South Korea or giving us the benefit of his punditry is a better alternative here.
I saw some clips from I think Bild on the Guardian Liveblog about his comments - and combined with Matthaus talking about the WAGS it felt a lot like England 20 years ago :ph34r:
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 12:01:20 PMMaybe I was wrong about good old Wayne :D
Oh I think you'd get on :P He also said he thinks the defenders look bereft of confidence, the midfield aren't organised and if England don't score quickly they might go down 2-0.
To be fair the Korea government isn't laying into the team, but the corruption of the KFA and by extension the coach (for how he was hired). Corruption that was known before the World Cup, but really blew up after the exit. KFA was told to reprimand the governing body and went "nah, don't think we will". Probably won't be able to get away with it now.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 12:06:36 PMQuote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 12:01:20 PMMaybe I was wrong about good old Wayne :D
Oh I think you'd get on :P He also said he thinks the defenders look bereft of confidence, the midfield aren't organised and if England don't score quickly they might go down 2-0.
Age has really wisened the lad :P
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 12:08:28 PMAge has really wisened the lad :P
He was always wise - he's just working class with a regional accent :P
He also has to sleep with a hair drier blowing in his face. Weirdo :wacko:
But Congo did almost go up by two, but hit the post.
We are all Congolese today.
Should have been a yellow. Refs being too lenient.
Awww
Quote from: Maladict on July 01, 2026, 12:29:04 PMWe are all Congolese today.
Indeed, but I am afraid it won't be enough. Kane ties the game.
A man can dream :cry:
Good from Gordon (maybe I was wrong cel :lol: :ph34r:).
England is not playing poorly. The DR Congo team is a good one. High levels of skill, lots of pace and physicality, and they are playing quite wisely, I think.
As an aside, while I know why they changed the name, Zaire was a much cooler name.
Quote from: HVC on July 01, 2026, 12:45:40 PMAs an aside, while I know why they changed the name, Zaire was a much cooler name.
Zaïre was an imperialist name!
Didn't stop Mobutu from choosing it, however. :P
Congo running out of steam.
And another goal. Mexico it is!
Kane is such a natural goalscorer. That goal was very well taken.
Dammit, I was expecting some overtime at least.
Quote from: Norgy on July 01, 2026, 12:42:36 PMEngland is not playing poorly. The DR Congo team is a good one. High levels of skill, lots of pace and physicality, and
they are playing quite wisely, I think.
They are a good team but I've got a Newcastle friend who is absolutely furious at how good Wissa's been this tournament :lol:
Very good from Kane.
Quote from: Norgy on July 01, 2026, 12:49:55 PMKane is such a natural goalscorer. That goal was very well taken.
Yeah. As I say 60 goals for Bayern this season - now on 13 World Cup goals.
And Rice is just a very good footballer.
England have been extremely painful. Really struggled against a team of largely championship and lower level players.
Being knocked out by Mexico in Mexico.... The Mexican police are stocking up on tear gas already.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on June 30, 2026, 01:38:17 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
Afraid of a Norway-Spain game or what? :P
One of very few times I'll root for Spain.
Quote from: Threviel on July 01, 2026, 12:55:19 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 30, 2026, 01:38:17 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
Afraid of a Norway-Spain game or what? :P
One of very few times I'll root for Spain.
Stop the presses! :lol:
Quote from: HVC on June 30, 2026, 01:06:42 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
I thought the the Norwegians were the really bad ass vikings? :unsure:
And to echo the others it was a beautiful goal.
The Danes plundered western Europe, the Swedes had the main shrine and sailed to Constantinople. The Icelanders wrote sagas.
It's just that Sweden and Denmark have more interesting periods, the Norwegians don't so they focus on the viking stuff.
Also, go England!
At the risk of jinxing it - very much looking forward to Belgium-Senegal. Feel like it's got the potential to be very enjoyable.
Why does Belgium have a cherry blossom themed jersey? :unsure:
France made the Swedish team look like larch trees in a Scandinavian forest.
France will win the world cup.
Apparently a tribute to Magritte :hmm:
WTF! :o
Edit: Really want Senegal to get back in control (would love a Senegal-Morocco grudge match semi-final :ph34r:).. But I love Lukaku and happy for him having an impressive tournament.
Do you guys think that penalty for Belgium was warranted? I'm kinda torn.
Senegal are cursed aren't they.
We were so close. So close.
I think it's warranted simply because FIFA rules already stop too many goals.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 01, 2026, 05:44:05 PMDo you guys think that penalty for Belgium was warranted? I'm kinda torn.
Don't think it should have been given. I can see why it was - but feel like they've not been giving that type of penalty in this World Cup. And whenever VAR spends that much time to call the ref and then the ref takes ages reviewing it, I feel like they should err on not giving.
Man...bad day for Africa.
After 9 African teams get out of the group stages, four knocked out with goals after the 85th minute (in the case of Senegal multiple). Must be a bit gutting.
Still have Ghana, Algeria, Cabo Verde and Egypt to go though.
I was shocked to see Partey plays for Ghana. I thought he'd been arrested for rape? Was the case dropped or what's going on, english folks?
Quote from: Zoupa on July 01, 2026, 08:07:29 PMI was shocked to see Partey plays for Ghana. I thought he'd been arrested for rape? Was the case dropped or what's going on, english folks?
The case has not been dropped. But following the initial charge, there were two new charges after the initial ones were brought which have now been conslidated into a single trial. He pleaded not guilty a few months ago and the trial is scheduled for January.
Arsenal continued to play him and his contract expired and he moved to Villareal. Canada refused a visa so he wasn't in the Ghana team for the game they played in Canada. He was able to play in the games in the US.
When Ghana played England, Djed Spence refused to shake his hand before the game.
Edit: And I feel like Spence can't just have been a Spurs thing - but it could have been. Either way I think good on him.
A red card for that!?
Bosnian have done worse and not gotten a yellow!
Absurd!
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 08:17:45 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 01, 2026, 08:07:29 PMI was shocked to see Partey plays for Ghana. I thought he'd been arrested for rape? Was the case dropped or what's going on, english folks?
The case has not been dropped. But following the initial charge, there were two new charges after the initial ones were brought which have now been conslidated into a single trial. He pleaded not guilty a few months ago and the trial is scheduled for January.
Arsenal continued to play him and his contract expired and he moved to Villareal. Canada refused a visa so he wasn't in the Ghana team for the game they played in Canada. He was able to play in the games in the US.
When Ghana played England, Djed Spence refused to shake his hand before the game.
Edit: And I feel like Spence can't just have been a Spurs thing - but it could have been. Either way I think good on him.
Good on Spence. Googling it, I see Declan Rice gave him quite the hug. Presumption of innocence and all that but come on man.
Quote from: Josquius on July 01, 2026, 05:49:27 PMSenegal are cursed aren't they.
Good. I recently learned Senegal is one of several African nations that has increased penalties for being gay this year. Ghana is one too so here's to hoping they get a swift exit soon.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2026, 08:32:47 PMA red card for that!?
Bosnian have done worse and not gotten a yellow!
Absurd!
Compared to what referees have let slide, this seems like a harsh and wrong decision. More accidental than intentional in any way.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2026, 08:32:47 PMA red card for that!?
Bosnian have done worse and not gotten a yellow!
Absurd!
He broke the two cardinal rules of the the World Cup.
1) Be Messi
2) Don't not be Messi
If he had just stuck to those he'd have been fine. See Argentinas game against Algeria :P
Quote from: Zoupa on July 01, 2026, 10:40:45 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on July 01, 2026, 08:17:45 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 01, 2026, 08:07:29 PMI was shocked to see Partey plays for Ghana. I thought he'd been arrested for rape? Was the case dropped or what's going on, english folks?
The case has not been dropped. But following the initial charge, there were two new charges after the initial ones were brought which have now been conslidated into a single trial. He pleaded not guilty a few months ago and the trial is scheduled for January.
Arsenal continued to play him and his contract expired and he moved to Villareal. Canada refused a visa so he wasn't in the Ghana team for the game they played in Canada. He was able to play in the games in the US.
When Ghana played England, Djed Spence refused to shake his hand before the game.
Edit: And I feel like Spence can't just have been a Spurs thing - but it could have been. Either way I think good on him.
Good on Spence. Googling it, I see Declan Rice gave him quite the hug. Presumption of innocence and all that but come on man.
Yeah I've seen a lot of weird comments hailing Spence on this and proclaiming he's the only one with morals etc....
To my mind it is probably either a Spurs thing OR they know each other, they probably move in the same circles, and Spence thinks the charges are likely true.
I 100% would go with innocent until proven guilty on this stuff though.
Sunderland had a young player, Jack Diamond, who was accused of rape. He was suspended due to it though was later found completely innocent. The accuser was a consenting girl who was pissed off he didn't want a serious relationship with her.
But though a year suspended whilst being paid in full and then exonerated might be fine in normal jobs, for a young footballer it's career destroying.
I'd probably go with keep them away from press and charity engagements whilst something is going on but they should keep playing - maybe under an agreement they pay compensation if they're guilty.
Quote from: Josquius on July 02, 2026, 06:56:07 AMI 100% would go with innocent until proven guilty on this stuff though.
Well here is the deal: generally I agree. However rape is such a weird crime. You can have people, especialy famous men, who are known rapists everybody knows they are a rapist and they have dozens of accusers and jack fuck happens. Due to the nature of the crime people often don't come forward until years after the fact so you have statute of limitations issues, there is no evidence really that a crime has been committed except testimony unless you literally have a video or audio recording and even then that might not necesarily prove anything unless the person is actively indicating they do not consent or they are unconcious or something.
Is the Andrew formerly known as Prince in Prison? Did Michael Jackson go to jail? Bill Cosby got out after a short period of time due to a technicality. When Danny Masterson (TV star in the US just FYI) finally went to jail, which was a very close run deal and due to some very specific laws in California, tons of people were outraged that there was no "evidence"...none but hours and hours of witness testimony.
It is such a hard crime to convict people of and we have such a long and incredible history of powerful famous dudes just getting away with it for decades and nothing happening that...sure if one person makes an accusation I am going to be skeptical. One person can be an asshole or delusional or whatever? Sure. But once multiple accusers come forth against a powerful celebrity man I really have no choice but to believe them because the justice system on a world wide basis systematically and institutionally fails to do fuck all about it.
So if these new charges are different incidents or just more charges related to the same accusation that would change how I view it. Granted I have no idea who this guy is besides the knowledge he is a famous soccer player.
Gonna be 31 (feels like 40) today in Toronto. Probably helps portugal. But with everyone playing on different nations now might not actually make a difference. At least the hydration breaks will actually mean something this time :D
Yeah I'm more team Spence on this. I get what you mean about being suspended and the impact on a young player.
But that's not what happened to Thomas Partey. First of all he has been formally charged - so this isn't just allegations but allegations with enough evidence for the CPS to bring charges. Arsenal continued to play him in the Premier League and Champions League - because of reporting restrictions after someone being charged the only comment possible in the media was to note that he had been charged and denied all allegations. His contract ended and he moved to Villareal where he has played in a La Liga and the Champions League. He has played for his country in AFCON and this World Cup.
I think presumption of innocence etc is really important in the formal process (and why, despite its issues, I'm pretty sympathetic to the UK's reporting restrictions/contempt of court rules) - I fully get friends and family believing and supporting someone. But I'm not sure that it means everyone else around you has to behave as if it's nothing.
I'd add that we've also seen it a bit with Mason Greenwood who wasn't formally charged (I don't think his girlfriend wanted to press charges) - but the videos his girlfriend released, I think, were pretty shocking. Manchester United suspended and release him - but he is now playing for Marseille.
Sadly I think in football if you are a good enough player then it will have an impact but it won't destroy their career until and unless they're actually in prison (I think even with a conviction with a non-custodial sentence, a team would be willing to take the heat for a good enough player).
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 02, 2026, 11:14:50 AMYeah I'm more team Spence on this. I get what you mean about being suspended and the impact on a young player.
But that's not what happened to Thomas Partey. First of all he has been formally charged - so this isn't just allegations but allegations with enough evidence for the CPS to bring charges. Arsenal continued to play him in the Premier League and Champions League - because of reporting restrictions after someone being charged the only comment possible in the media was to note that he had been charged and denied all allegations. His contract ended and he moved to Villareal where he has played in a La Liga and the Champions League. He has played for his country in AFCON and this World Cup.
I think presumption of innocence etc is really important in the formal process (and why, despite its issues, I'm pretty sympathetic to the UK's reporting restrictions/contempt of court rules) - I fully get friends and family believing and supporting someone. But I'm not sure that it means everyone else around you has to behave as if it's nothing.
I'd add that we've also seen it a bit with Mason Greenwood who wasn't formally charged (I don't think his girlfriend wanted to press charges) - but the videos his girlfriend released, I think, were pretty shocking. Manchester United suspended and release him - but he is now playing for Marseille.
Sadly I think in football if you are a good enough player then it will have an impact but it won't destroy their career until and unless they're actually in prison (I think even with a conviction with a non-custodial sentence, a team would be willing to take the heat for a good enough player).
Diamond went to trial too.
He was quite a fringe player, not a regular starter even in the championship, but certainly of a league 1 or championship potential. His career hasn't been totally destroyed by the year out but he does find himself in league 2.
As I say my guess would be as the two players are of a similar demographic in the same part of the country they probably have crossed paths and whatever encounters they've had has given Spence a strong reason to believe the accusations.
I don't blame individuals for being less polite to people on trial.
But purely on a professional side absolutely zero issue with a player continuing to play.
I think presumption of innocence is not just a legal requirement, but also just a sensible idea that people should generally abide by even when not legally obligated to. It's not because most people presumed innocent are indeed innocent, but because a world where an accusation is enough to deal permanent damage is a world where the accusations can be weaponized.
Quote from: DGuller on July 02, 2026, 11:45:59 AMI think presumption of innocence is not just a legal requirement, but also just a sensible idea that people should generally abide by even when not legally obligated to. It's not because most people presumed innocent are indeed innocent, but because a world where an accusation is enough to deal permanent damage is a world where the accusations can be weaponized.
That sort of sounds like the default stance in human history.
Quote from: DGuller on July 02, 2026, 11:45:59 AMI think presumption of innocence is not just a legal requirement, but also just a sensible idea that people should generally abide by even when not legally obligated to. It's not because most people presumed innocent are indeed innocent, but because a world where an accusation is enough to deal permanent damage is a world where the accusations can be weaponized.
Which is why I at least want to see a pattern of accumulating accusations. Just one is not enough.
And if we ever find a better and more consistent way of dealing with this particular crime.
It is not true that most people charged with a crime, and presumed innocent during their trial, are in DGuller's words "indeed innocent".
In fact, the vast majority of people who stand trial are convicted.
This is partly because most countries have professional prosecutors who take care in ensuring that only those cases that are worthy of prosecution are in fact prosecuted.
Quote from: Valmy on July 02, 2026, 12:02:26 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 02, 2026, 11:45:59 AMI think presumption of innocence is not just a legal requirement, but also just a sensible idea that people should generally abide by even when not legally obligated to. It's not because most people presumed innocent are indeed innocent, but because a world where an accusation is enough to deal permanent damage is a world where the accusations can be weaponized.
Which is why I at least want to see a pattern of accumulating accusations. Just one is not enough.
And if we ever find a better and more consistent way of dealing with this particular crime.
One accuser with strong evidence should be enough.
Are you really going to sit back and doubt someone was raped unless the rapist was a serial rapist?
Quote from: Threviel on July 01, 2026, 12:55:19 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 30, 2026, 01:38:17 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
Afraid of a Norway-Spain game or what? :P
One of very few times I'll root for Spain.
I'm surprised and amused by your anti-Norwegian animus.
Denmark vs Sweden rivalry is very natural to me, but in a fit of pan-Scandinavian enthusiasm I was even willing to support Sweden in view of Denmark's pathetic performance. As for Norway, I think most Danes are happy to support them.
Is this anti-Norwegian thing widespread in Sweden, or more of a regional thing? Or mostly a Threviel thing?
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 02, 2026, 12:04:10 PMIt is not true that most people charged with a crime, and presumed innocent during their trial, are in DGuller's words "indeed innocent".
In fact, the vast majority of people who stand trial are convicted.
This is partly because most countries have professional prosecutors who take care in ensuring that only those cases that are worthy of prosecution are in fact prosecuted.
Agree with your main point - I think it's also a degree of "no smoke without fire" and that presumption of innocence is a necessary corrective to a presumption of guilt by people if it's got to trial.
As I say there are problems with it in a world of social media from around the world but this is partly why I like our reporting restrictions and contempt of court rules where basically all you can report is the existence of a charge (and the defendent's response) and once the trial begins all that can be reported is what is said in court "the prosecution/defence allege/argue/questioned" etc. It's an attempt to keep juries clean and not forming opinions in advance of the actual trial.
It's why there's normally a flood of information after the trial finishes because basically everything journalists have uncovered but doesn't form part of the trial can suddenly be disclosed (subject to libel etc). But it is difficult in social media with people posting outside the UK.
Quote from: Jacob on July 02, 2026, 12:12:50 PMIs this anti-Norwegian thing widespread in Sweden, or more of a regional thing? Or mostly a Threviel thing?
Sweden's foreign secretary said she'd support Colombia, or anyone but Norway. :lol:
I find it amusing. Both for a journalist to ask a diplomat about this, and that so many Swedes seem to have become Scots (vs. England).
That's odd.
I knew Denmark and Sweden were rivals but I thought Norway was the one both loved.
I always thought Finland was the loved, but mocked, "special" sibling :lol:
I always thought they were more the slightly weird neighbour the rest of the Nordics kind of tried to ignore? (Maybe this is just the experience of that Finnish lad who used to post here :lol:)
The special label includes broody (even by Nordic standards :P ) and speech impediment* :contract:
*yeah I know it's not just funny Germanic, but a whole other non Indo-European language family, but it does sound especially odd to me ear :D
As for Spain, comfortable win, upset, or close game?
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 02, 2026, 11:14:50 AMYeah I'm more team Spence on this. I get what you mean about being suspended and the impact on a young player.
But that's not what happened to Thomas Partey. First of all he has been formally charged - so this isn't just allegations but allegations with enough evidence for the CPS to bring charges. Arsenal continued to play him in the Premier League and Champions League - because of reporting restrictions after someone being charged the only comment possible in the media was to note that he had been charged and denied all allegations. His contract ended and he moved to Villareal where he has played in a La Liga and the Champions League. He has played for his country in AFCON and this World Cup.
I think presumption of innocence etc is really important in the formal process (and why, despite its issues, I'm pretty sympathetic to the UK's reporting restrictions/contempt of court rules) - I fully get friends and family believing and supporting someone. But I'm not sure that it means everyone else around you has to behave as if it's nothing.
I'd add that we've also seen it a bit with Mason Greenwood who wasn't formally charged (I don't think his girlfriend wanted to press charges) - but the videos his girlfriend released, I think, were pretty shocking. Manchester United suspended and release him - but he is now playing for Marseille.
Sadly I think in football if you are a good enough player then it will have an impact but it won't destroy their career until and unless they're actually in prison (I think even with a conviction with a non-custodial sentence, a team would be willing to take the heat for a good enough player).
I've quite enjoyed the game between Marseille and Villa where Mings absolutely bodied that little weasel Greenwood.
Quote from: HVC on July 02, 2026, 01:35:55 PMAs for Spain, comfortable win, upset, or close game?
More importantly, the French commentator can't pronounce Roja so that's another drinking game in case you're bored. :P
Way too many portuguese people congregating in toronto. I don't like it. It's tempting fate.
Quote from: HVC on July 02, 2026, 03:53:21 PMWay too many portuguese people congregating in toronto. I don't like it. It's tempting fate.
Happened in 2016 in Lens too. :P
Spain 3 Austria 0
Clear victory despite the early Austrian resistance.
Yeah - Spain still not ominous like France. But doing that very Spanish thing of improving as they go further into a tournament.
I actually quite like Spain - but loath Cucurella so a bit of a mixed bag in my view.
Sadly both teams should lose, be disqualified and get fined for both wearing the wrong kits :(
:lol:
Don't like how everyone's away kit has weird smudge patterns
I don't think im gonna like this ref :glare:
Why are you stopping on a counter attack you stupid fuckers
How was that not a penalty
Surprised it took so long to review.
There we go.
I still hate this game
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 02, 2026, 07:26:56 PMSurprised it took so long to review.
Being in America he thought he was playing American football :lol:
*for the purposes of the joke I'm ignoring that they're playing in Toronto :P
That's a deserved penalty.
Also weird subs. Let's see if it pans out.
So far not well
Wow. Surprised
I haven't been keeping up with the game. Are you now supposed to say "offside" whenever a goal is scored?
Only when they're offside lol. While annoying it's actually a very simple rule.
Wooooooi
Fucking ref
Offside!
Has this been a game with the most offside goals? It seems like two out of three goals were disallowed.
Does the ref have money on this game? Blow the damn whistle.
Poor Croatia :(
Ronaldo's pissed lol
Well that was dramatic, Croatia having a goal disallowed in the what 90+13minin (?) :hmm:
Quote from: mongers on July 02, 2026, 08:44:59 PMWell that was dramatic, Croatia having a goal disallowed in the what 90+13minin (?) :hmm:
They each got a close one disallowed, but that last one couldn't have been more offside.
Quote from: HVC on July 02, 2026, 08:51:06 PMThey each got a close one disallowed, but that last one couldn't have been more offside.
Only if there was contact though from the Croatian player before Gvardiol scored - and none of the angles seemed to confirm it as far as I could see.
Has to be intentional contact, no? Even if there was contact the defender was ducking away. He wasn't trying to redirect.
Sorry I meant contact with the ball - if the Croatian player didn't head it then I think it came off a Portuguese player and Gvardiol's not offside, no?
Other way, no? Croatian guy headed it. Ball censor confirmed. But Croatian dude was offside on the header. If the portuguese defender played the ball then its no longer office. Basically counts as an intercepted back pass. But it has to be intentional. Cant be a deflection.
At least that's how I understand it.
*edit* for clarification the Croatian at the post was offside, not the guy who headed it. Post dude was offside both at the kick and off the header so doesn't matter if it touched header guy. What matters is if the defender touched it and if he did whether it was intentional.
*edit 2* I just saw recap and I remembered wrong, he wasn't offside at the kick. My bad. Still sensor showed header contact so it's moot. Technology is cool.
Yeah I think we're meaning the same thing actually just talkin about different players :lol: I hadn't realised there was a ball sensor so I thought they were judging off the video and none of the angles seemed clear to me that the Croatian player had actually touched the ball.
I've just watched highlights from last night's games (I went to bed very early and slept for an ungodly 9 hours), and the dastardly Swiss seem to be sneaking up on us, all neutral and with their banking code and private parks. The team must have a good manager as even Dan Ndoye seems to be able to play football. <_<
The Falange also looks dangerous, but that was always a known.
Quote from: HVC on July 02, 2026, 06:17:48 PMI don't think im gonna like this ref :glare:
god that ref was annoying. It never should have even gotten to the 2nd Croatian goal BECAUSE HE SHOULD HAVE BLOWN THE WHISTLE 2 MINUTES PRIOR.
Some of these guys really love the attention and it`s fucking annoying. You're supposed to be invisible.
Watching the highlights....yeah. Probably wouldn't have given offside for that Croatia goal. Whether the Croatian headed it or not is secondary to the Portuguese defender heading it on.
the rules are pretty clear that the touch from the defending player needs to be intentional to offset the offside. Since the portuguese player's touch was unintentional, the croatian was offside.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 03, 2026, 03:53:03 AMthe rules are pretty clear that the touch from the defending player needs to be intentional to offset the offside. Since the portuguese player's touch was unintentional, the croatian was offside.
A defender getting his head onto the ball coming into the box is unintentional?
It going the direction it did was very much unintentional, but he clearly did want to get to the ball.
The main defence I would see is the initial Croatian touch came with the goalscorer already in an offside position- but to that I'd say he wasn't interfering in play and hadn't yet touched it himself.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 03, 2026, 03:53:03 AMthe rules are pretty clear that the touch from the defending player needs to be intentional to offset the offside. Since the portuguese player's touch was unintentional, the croatian was offside.
Yeah, but it's now not such a clear role. Now the ref has to decide the intention of the player who touched the ball. The ball was clearly touched and to me it looked like he did it intentionally.
But now we get into a big semantic battle about what intention means.
Why not just make the rule very simple if a defending player touches the ball and then it's not offside?
Anyway, I'm sure there are good reasons for not doing it that way, but you end up with something is very difficult to do and that is to decide on somebody's intention.
The other perspective is that it's very difficult for an offensive player to think he split second decision about another players intention. All the Croatian players saw was the ball come off the head of the Portuguese player, he therefore played the ball. It's a bit unfair to say in hindsight with the benefit of VAR and I don't know how many minutes it took for the referee to make the decision that in fact, the Portuguese player did not intend to touch it.
So....England are on at 1am....
Wondering whether its practical to keep myself away from anything liable to spoil it until 8:30 (won't use my clock radio that day) and watch it on repeat.
Not sure I trust iplayer not to spoil it though....
Quote from: Josquius on July 03, 2026, 08:38:35 AMSo....England are on at 1am....
Wondering whether its practical to keep myself away from anything liable to spoil it until 8:30 (won't use my clock radio that day) and watch it on repeat.
Not sure I trust iplayer not to spoil it though....
How will you not hear it from the noise outside?
Quote from: Josquius on July 03, 2026, 04:02:14 AMA defender getting his head onto the ball coming into the box is unintentional?
It going the direction it did was very much unintentional, but he clearly did want to get to the ball.
Yeah I agree - I don't think intentional is necessarily good and a defender jumping to get a header on a ball coming into the box is intentional even if it's not controlled or sent in the right direction.
Quote from: Norgy on July 03, 2026, 02:20:38 AMI've just watched highlights from last night's games (I went to bed very early and slept for an ungodly 9 hours), and the dastardly Swiss seem to be sneaking up on us, all neutral and with their banking code and private parks. The team must have a good manager as even Dan Ndoye seems to be able to play football. <_<
Glad we still have one Balkan team in the tournament :lol:
By the by I think I've said before that Adrian Chiles is my favourite columnist - and this is just a lovely piece:
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jul/02/world-cup-italian-referee-underdog
Quote from: Josquius on July 03, 2026, 04:02:14 AMQuote from: Zoupa on July 03, 2026, 03:53:03 AMthe rules are pretty clear that the touch from the defending player needs to be intentional to offset the offside. Since the portuguese player's touch was unintentional, the croatian was offside.
A defender getting his head onto the ball coming into the box is unintentional?
It going the direction it did was very much unintentional, but he clearly did want to get to the ball.
The main defence I would see is the initial Croatian touch came with the goalscorer already in an offside position- but to that I'd say he wasn't interfering in play and hadn't yet touched it himself.
NO, you can see he ducked to get out of the way. It's a stupid rule though. In my day (old man voice) any contact was enough to nullify the offside.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 03, 2026, 11:34:09 AMBy the by I think I've said before that Adrian Chiles is my favourite columnist - and this is just a lovely piece:
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jul/02/world-cup-italian-referee-underdog
Italian propaganda! Trying to make you cheer for an Italian ref because they don't have a good enough team to cheer for. I won't be fooled :P
Quote from: Maladict on July 03, 2026, 09:19:11 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 03, 2026, 08:38:35 AMSo....England are on at 1am....
Wondering whether its practical to keep myself away from anything liable to spoil it until 8:30 (won't use my clock radio that day) and watch it on repeat.
Not sure I trust iplayer not to spoil it though....
How will you not hear it from the noise outside?
I live in a pretty quiet area. If I keep my window shut just in case of neighbours should be fine
Just read however they're apparently thinking of moving it forward 6 hours due to storm risk (and not at all due to advertisers)
Quote from: Josephus on July 03, 2026, 12:34:14 PMQuote from: Josquius on July 03, 2026, 04:02:14 AMQuote from: Zoupa on July 03, 2026, 03:53:03 AMthe rules are pretty clear that the touch from the defending player needs to be intentional to offset the offside. Since the portuguese player's touch was unintentional, the croatian was offside.
A defender getting his head onto the ball coming into the box is unintentional?
It going the direction it did was very much unintentional, but he clearly did want to get to the ball.
The main defence I would see is the initial Croatian touch came with the goalscorer already in an offside position- but to that I'd say he wasn't interfering in play and hadn't yet touched it himself.
NO, you can see he ducked to get out of the way. It's a stupid rule though. In my day (old man voice) any contact was enough to nullify the offside.
I actually don't think it's clear the deducked. That goes against everything a defender is taught to do isn't it? His actions are equally and I think more persuasively consistent with misjudging the ball and failing to clearing it.
If one is going to speak of intention, why would a defender ever intentionally get out of the way of a ball heading towards their net?
One would duck if they think it's going out of play for a goal kick. Obviously I'm biased but to me it looked like he ducked and it went off his back.
Quote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:29:04 PMOne would duck if they think it's going out of play for a goal kick. Obviously I'm biased but to me it looked like he ducked and it went off his back.
Agreed, but it wasn't going out to play
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 03, 2026, 03:31:17 PMQuote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:29:04 PMOne would duck if they think it's going out of play for a goal kick. Obviously I'm biased but to me it looked like he ducked and it went off his back.
Agreed, but it wasn't going out to play
But if Croatia 15 hadn't handled it the ball was going of well passed the right post.
Also, stupid Egyptians. Why are all the African teams failing me.
With no investment in the outcome and little clarity on the rule nuances my observation is: guy ducked to get out of the way, but the ball touched him enough to change direction.
Quote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:40:48 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 03, 2026, 03:31:17 PMQuote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:29:04 PMOne would duck if they think it's going out of play for a goal kick. Obviously I'm biased but to me it looked like he ducked and it went off his back.
Agreed, but it wasn't going out to play
But if Croatia 15 hadn't handled it the ball was going of well passed the right post.
That's only apparent in hindsight. That would not have at all been clear to the defender. Defenders clear balls when there's any danger and that was definitely a dangerous situation.
Yes.
Catching end of Egypt - Australia. Gone on to pens.
I fear Australia made a mistake with their keeper sub....
Quote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:41:35 PMAlso, stupid Egyptians. Why are all the African teams failing me.
There you go. Didn't really have a horse in the game, I just like Salah.
Refs helping Messi again.
Quote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:54:14 PMQuote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 03:41:35 PMAlso, stupid Egyptians. Why are all the African teams failing me.
There you go. Didn't really have a horse in the game, I just like Salah.
Ditto.
It's tie again!
Incredible :w00t:
:o :wacko:
Nice goal, let's see if Cabo can come back one more time
Unfortunate. This Argentina has no chance against France though. Maybe not even Colombia.
Need that Norwegian ref to come along and give 20 minutes of extra time :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 03, 2026, 07:35:30 PMNeed that Norwegian ref to come along and give 20 minutes of extra time :lol:
:D
CV did themselves very proud.
Sure did
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 03, 2026, 07:45:52 PMSure did
They'll be talking about this game for decades at home. Island of 500,000 people. Hope they're back, but the magic of vozinha will be hard to replace, if only the confidence he provided.
First Japan and now Cape Verde. :(
At least Morocco beat Netherlands and Paraguay beat Germany.
I have a partial media blackout before tomorrow's game against Brazil. It is just too much.
The Cabo Verde story is much like Cameroon 1990 and Iceland's, brave and something most fans will remember. :cry:
Not sure if it's just the media or fifa actually being their usual quality but they switched the England kick off to a reasonable European hour then changed their mind and u turned :lol:
Quote from: Josquius on July 04, 2026, 02:23:19 AMNot sure if it's just the media or fifa actually being their usual qualify but they switched the England kick off to a reasonable European hour then changed their mind and u turned :lol:
Reasonable euro time would put the game at early afternoon in Mexico City. In an open stadium. That's ok if you don't mind the English players passing out from heat stroke :lol: which I guess could work if you want an easy excuse for a loss :P
*edit although I guess the elevation would help with the heat.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 02:26:44 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 04, 2026, 02:23:19 AMNot sure if it's just the media or fifa actually being their usual qualify but they switched the England kick off to a reasonable European hour then changed their mind and u turned :lol:
Reasonable euro time would put the game at early afternoon in Mexico City. In an open stadium. That's ok if you don't mind the English players passing out from heat stroke :lol: which I guess could work if you want an easy excuse for a loss :P
*edit although I guess the elevation would help with the heat.
There are many - altitude, the Azteca (I don't think Mexico has lost any of its last 80+ home games :ph34r:).
So much so I've seen a fair few pundits expecting a defeat - but Ana amazing chance to play in one of the great stadiums. Saw Theo Walcott saying he thinks it might be helpful that England are underdogs :lol:
Weirdly on Spanish internet I've seen Mexico fans acknowledge that comments by journalists and Tuchel and Kane are "showing respect" in contrast to the Ecuadorians and I have no idea what the beef was there (will research) but I see the Ecuadorian FA have made a formal complaint to FIFA :hmm: (Always love this with tournaments where there are so many different subplots you might not know are going on :lol:).
Edit: Incidentally not sure heat would be an issue. Mexico City is high and dry. I think hydration breaks would be needed, but Miami seems like the hellscape for the players.
Mexico and Ecuador had a "spat" recently in regards to an embassy being raided. Ecuador's corrupt vice president claimed asylum.
As to the heat, yeah I wasn't 100% sure because of the elevation as my edit indicated, but based on your edit I guess it isn't.
Yeah I'm not an athlete so don't know :lol: But I didn't find Mexico City that bad and looking at the forecast it's low twenties and will be very dry. But the players at all the games I've seen in Miami look like they're really suffering.
I think the altitude and atmosphere are real issues though. Interestingly I'd heard a podcast about how Ecuador had improved as a team recently and apparently part of it was moving their national stadium, or at least some of their games, which was at a very high altitude (I assume Quito) to the coast. Basically in the Copa America and CONMEBOL qualifiers there's been a sense they were relying too much on altitude at home and then when they played in, say, Argentina or Brazil or Uruguay, they couldn't compete. By being lower altitude the theory was they'd have to focus more on skill etc. No idea if true or if it worked but interesting.
Edit: And thanks that makes sense on the bit of needle in the game.
The reason the Croatian goal was disallowed
https://youtube.com/shorts/UXpdmSn947A?si=MIuzAr0ZklWSUAtQ
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 03, 2026, 03:27:34 PMIf one is going to speak of intention, why would a defender ever intentionally get out of the way of a ball heading towards their net?
He knew there was a guy in an offside position behind him
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 04, 2026, 08:43:46 AMThe reason the Croatian goal was disallowed
https://youtube.com/shorts/UXpdmSn947A?si=MIuzAr0ZklWSUAtQ
that too :lmfao:
Infantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Gianni is just following a time-honoured Blatter tradition. :P
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 07:37:09 AMMexico and Ecuador had a "spat" recently in regards to an embassy being raided. Ecuador's corrupt vice president claimed asylum.
As to the heat, yeah I wasn't 100% sure because of the elevation as my edit indicated, but based on your edit I guess it isn't.
On issues England might face in Mexico :lol:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HMU1HZgWkAAbxtB?format=jpg&name=900x900)
Anyway, here's wonderwall.
:P
Let's go canada!
Canada is really good at getting corners... not so good at scoring from them lol
Very impressive
Yeah canadas playing well. But morocco is getting into a rhythm. Looks like over confidence hobbled them for the first 15 or so minutes.
Although we do have a sleeper agent in Moroccos goalie :ph34r: :P
Well, it was good while it lasted. 1-0 for a Moroccan that woke up.
Canadians caught by surprise.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 12:33:03 PMAlthough we do have a sleeper agent in Moroccos goalie :ph34r: :P
He is rather nonchalant.
It's over now, 2-0 for Morocco with a lethal counter-attack.
Bad pass leads to goal.
Oh well, team still made canadian history.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
I really hope Argentina doesn't win it all this year. I absolutely loathe their version of football.
I still believe France has the best chance this year. Let's see how they play tonight.
We need to open the game up early so Parguay has no choice but to attack. If not it'll be an exercice in frustration.
Prediction: 2-1 France.
Maybe one day we will be lucky and our best player will be available for the WC.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Messi is a nice guy representing an otherwise shitbag country.
Ronaldo is the opposite.
Quote from: Grey Fox on July 04, 2026, 03:15:18 PMMaybe one day we will be lucky and our best player will be available for the WC.
I don't understand why he was able to play last game but wasn't able to play this game
Quote from: Josquius on July 04, 2026, 03:24:56 PMQuote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Messi is a nice guy representing an otherwise shitbag country.
Ronaldo is the opposite.
Portugal are complicit with Ronaldo.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 04, 2026, 02:20:02 PMWe need to open the game up early so Parguay has no choice but to attack. If not it'll be an exercice in frustration.
Prediction: 2-1 France.
Yeah I'm not sure - France look pretty unbeatable especially attacking. But more than any other team Paraguay look like they love defending and it looks like there's fifteen of them on the pitch.
I agree early will ease things because one thing we don't really know about this French team yet is how they are in a bit of a slog/things not going their way and really having to break down a side.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 04, 2026, 10:41:57 AMQuote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 07:37:09 AMMexico and Ecuador had a "spat" recently in regards to an embassy being raided. Ecuador's corrupt vice president claimed asylum.
As to the heat, yeah I wasn't 100% sure because of the elevation as my edit indicated, but based on your edit I guess it isn't.
On issues England might face in Mexico :lol:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HMU1HZgWkAAbxtB?format=jpg&name=900x900)
Considering my opinion of discourse on Twitter I can only commend Liam for admitting he was wrong and not doubling down despite looking like a fool.
Nice try, nice effort Canada.
Now the US can lose without it being a national humiliation.
What in the world is this? :huh: :blink:
Quote from: Zoupa on July 04, 2026, 04:28:51 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on July 04, 2026, 03:44:21 PMWhat in the world is this? :huh: :blink:
?
The massive American flag, national anthem, schoolboys in blazers. Was odd.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 04, 2026, 04:39:10 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 04, 2026, 04:28:51 PMQuote from: Sheilbh on July 04, 2026, 03:44:21 PMWhat in the world is this? :huh: :blink:
?
The massive American flag, national anthem, schoolboys in blazers. Was odd.
4th of July, 250th anniversary and all that jazz. :P
Paraguay have perfected the art of frustrating other teams.
Though it makes for a boring match.
They're being ridiculous. These schoolboy tactics are not gonna phase these guys lol. They learned football playing on asphalt in the banlieues. Nobody is scared of you, Almiron. Sit down.
Quote from: mongers on July 04, 2026, 04:56:38 PMParaguay have perfected the art of frustrating other teams.
Though it makes for a boring match.
The Italy of the Western Hemisphere.
Mbappé scores. Just need to hold on now.
That is probably it right there.
And that's it. Just like in 1998, France beats Paraguay 1-0.
Quote from: Valmy on July 04, 2026, 05:42:59 PMQuote from: mongers on July 04, 2026, 04:56:38 PMParaguay have perfected the art of frustrating other teams.
Though it makes for a boring match.
The Italy of the Western Hemisphere.
Without World Cups, continental trophies or great players. :P
Paraguay is better at sneaky hits or provocations, however.
Jesus that was a boring game, I literally couldn't stay awake. At least Paraguay is out now, so every remaining game can only be better than this.
I hate to harp on referees, but they are incredibly inconsistent. He missed half a dozen orange cards.
I quite enjoyed it :ph34r: But agree with Zoups - Paraguay got away with a lot.
Referee sucked hard, indeed.
AFC ref, it was to be expected.
I fell asleep and missed the game :lol:
Quote from: Josquius on July 04, 2026, 03:24:56 PMQuote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Messi is a nice guy representing an otherwise shitbag country.
Ronaldo is the opposite.
Ronaldo is arrogant, but he also always tops the charitable athletes list. Messi donates to his own tax shelter :P
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 08:11:24 PMI fell asleep and missed the game :lol:
You did not miss anything. ;)
Christ Paraguay were dirty and that ref was very chilled.
Mbappe a bit of a dick to their keeper at the end I noticed though. He did a great job and was unlucky.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 08:15:10 PMQuote from: Josquius on July 04, 2026, 03:24:56 PMQuote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 10:28:49 AMInfantino is waxing poetically about his love of messi and argentina and it's ronaldo you're worried about ref tampering and match fixing? :P
Messi is a nice guy representing an otherwise shitbag country.
Ronaldo is the opposite.
Ronaldo is arrogant, but he also always tops the charitable athletes list. Messi donates to his own tax shelter :P
From what I've seen Ronaldo does lots of Mr Beast style photo op donations.
Messi donates a fair bit in a more low key not seeking attention fashion.
Ronaldo might be a prick and perhaps a rapist. He is also the most charitable professional athlete in the world. Messi is nowhere close.
Quote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 08:11:24 PMI fell asleep and missed the game :lol:
Oh, so you were watching the game :D
England-Mexico, my prediction a lot of pissed-up or pissed-off people driving to work in the morning.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 02:20:25 AMRonaldo might be a prick and perhaps a rapist. He is also the most charitable professional athlete in the world. Messi is nowhere close.
Oh my goodness AI strikes again. I didn't think that sounded right because I know something about the charitable work the Messi foundation does.
So I googled it and yep, the AI answer is pretty much what you said and it's completely wrong. I even found a Facebook post that claimed Messi gives nothing to charity, which is technically true because he doesn't personally give anything to charity. That is why he set up his foundation.
And, he's actually created the smarter way of doing it. Ronaldo's philanthropy will depend on whoever inherit his estate and whether they will continue giving at the same rate contribution he does. Messi's foundation will continue.
It's actually very hard to compare which of them gives more. But looking into the question a little more closely it looks like there are either even or one might give slightly more than the other. Overtime, it will certainly be Messi because of the way he has structured his wealth.
But I suppose it benefits Ronaldo in the short run because in this age of AI google will spit out an answer that says that Ronaldo is far superior
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 05, 2026, 08:11:40 AMQuote from: HVC on July 04, 2026, 08:11:24 PMI fell asleep and missed the game :lol:
Oh, so you were watching the game :D
First five minutes, than i rested my eyes :yawn: :zzz :P
Quote from: mongers on July 05, 2026, 08:18:51 AMEngland-Mexico, my prediction a lot of pissed-up or pissed-off people driving to work in the morning.
My work has wfh tomorrow for anyone who wants it (I'm on holiday).
Discovered that while I agree with Walcott and others that England are probably underdogs, I found it a bit weird that Marc Guehi interview with the BBC where he said Mexico are probably favourites. I don't know it just sort of feels like the sort of thing as player or manager you don't say publicly before a game? :hmm:
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 05, 2026, 08:23:58 AMQuote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 02:20:25 AMRonaldo might be a prick and perhaps a rapist. He is also the most charitable professional athlete in the world. Messi is nowhere close.
Oh my goodness AI strikes again. I didn't think that sounded right because I know something about the charitable work the Messi foundation does.
So I googled it and yep, the AI answer is pretty much what you said and it's completely wrong. I even found a Facebook post that claimed Messi gives nothing to charity, which is technically true because he doesn't personally give anything to charity. That is why he set up his foundation.
And, he's actually created the smarter way of doing it. Ronaldo's philanthropy will depend on whoever inherit his estate and whether they will continue giving at the same rate contribution he does. Messi's foundation will continue.
It's actually very hard to compare which of them gives more. But looking into the question a little more closely it looks like there are either even or one might give slightly more than the other. Overtime, it will certainly be Messi because of the way he has structured his wealth.
But I suppose it benefits Ronaldo in the short run because in this age of AI google will spit out an answer that says that Ronaldo is far superior
As far as tax evasion and tax fraud go, both are tied. :P See what happened to them in Spain.
Although I think everyone (except Shakira) does a bit of tax fraud in Spain. I swear every time a player or manager comes here from La Liga it is noted they're under investigation for tax evasion (definitely remember it with Ancelotti and Mourinho).
To be fair to all the rich tax evaders it's their money mangers that do it. I doubt many have any idea what their money is doing or where it's hiding :lol:
*edit* and Shakira is not a saint either, she's a cradle robber :P
Quote from: Jacob on July 02, 2026, 12:12:50 PMQuote from: Threviel on July 01, 2026, 12:55:19 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on June 30, 2026, 01:38:17 PMQuote from: Threviel on June 30, 2026, 11:59:34 AMNow we hope that the brave Ivorians crush those self-good and hopefully over confident lesser vikings.
Afraid of a Norway-Spain game or what? :P
One of very few times I'll root for Spain.
I'm surprised and amused by your anti-Norwegian animus.
Denmark vs Sweden rivalry is very natural to me, but in a fit of pan-Scandinavian enthusiasm I was even willing to support Sweden in view of Denmark's pathetic performance. As for Norway, I think most Danes are happy to support them.
Is this anti-Norwegian thing widespread in Sweden, or more of a regional thing? Or mostly a Threviel thing?
The fuckers beat us in hockey. My work mates call them fell (as in the mountains) monkeys. Football is all we have left. If they're better in that they're better in everything.
So not a Threviel thing. But it's only a silly sports thing, in all serious matters the Norwegians are our homies.
Meanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 01:03:13 PMMeanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
:o Definitely the right decision to rescind the ban, but probably arrived at through a very tortured reading of the rules. There really should be a direct way to appeal clearly wrong decisions, obviously VAR is not a sufficient check on it as VAR referees themselves can make clear and obvious errors.
The tortuous process was probably trump requesting them to :D
Absolutely disgusting. It shouldn't have been a red card in the first place, but so what? You can't change the rules mid-tournament.
Agree. And it's not even been cancelled - so they're not saying the card was wrong. It's just been suspended so he can play and can be reinstated at any point in the next 4 years.
Really hope Belgium absolutely smashes them now.
Penalty for Brazil.
Saved.
Announcer was saying brazil has never beaten norway :ph34r:
Stopped by the Norwegian goalkeeper, despite Guimarães stopping his run to feint him.
Norway, look like they are quite happy to just pass the ball back-and-forth for 90 minutes
Jesus goalie stepped up and stopped a good norway chance.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 05, 2026, 08:23:58 AMQuote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 02:20:25 AMRonaldo might be a prick and perhaps a rapist. He is also the most charitable professional athlete in the world. Messi is nowhere close.
Oh my goodness AI strikes again. I didn't think that sounded right because I know something about the charitable work the Messi foundation does.
So I googled it and yep, the AI answer is pretty much what you said and it's completely wrong. I even found a Facebook post that claimed Messi gives nothing to charity, which is technically true because he doesn't personally give anything to charity. That is why he set up his foundation.
And, he's actually created the smarter way of doing it. Ronaldo's philanthropy will depend on whoever inherit his estate and whether they will continue giving at the same rate contribution he does. Messi's foundation will continue.
It's actually very hard to compare which of them gives more. But looking into the question a little more closely it looks like there are either even or one might give slightly more than the other. Overtime, it will certainly be Messi because of the way he has structured his wealth.
But I suppose it benefits Ronaldo in the short run because in this age of AI google will spit out an answer that says that Ronaldo is far superior
I don't use AI (although my wife is always asking chatgpt everything :glare: ). I thought Ronaldo helped a lot each time there's a natural disaster like the earthquakes in Turkey a few years ago and that Messi set up his foundation mostly for tax evasion.
I'm happy to be proven wrong.
Quote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 02:05:28 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 01:03:13 PMMeanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
:o Definitely the right decision to rescind the ban, but probably arrived at through a very tortured reading of the rules. There really should be a direct way to appeal clearly wrong decisions, obviously VAR is not a sufficient check on it as VAR referees themselves can make clear and obvious errors.
Uhhh he received a red card for serious foul play. Dude almost broke the ankle of the opponent, studs first didn't he.
lol
White House called FIFA's Infantino to review Team USA's Folarin Balogun's red card (https://apnews.com/article/falorin-balogun-suspension-world-cup-e5a5cab5731a916808601be93cb36832?taid=6a4abe247177c90001d8f1b9)
I think it's high time a different organization is formed. I don't think FIFA can be successfully cleansed.
Holy dhit. NYT saying Trump called Fantino to rescind Balogun's suspension for tomorrow's game
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 02:17:55 PMThe tortuous process was probably trump requesting them to :D
Called it. When a corrupt force meets a corruptible object
Also, what's this about the premier leagues worst ref being given the reins over the Spain - Portugal game?
If there's one thing that Trump is good at is destroying people that think they are his friend. Here's hoping he's working his magic on FIFA.
Just give the governance to Iran.
Quote from: Josephus on July 05, 2026, 04:08:02 PMHoly dhit. NYT saying Trump called Fantino to rescind Balogun's suspension for tomorrow's game
Goddamnit.
We need the US to lose now and the scorer of the winning goal against them to go "oh BTW my fiance is trans and we campaign against climate change together"
What we need is for Balogon saying he won't play or the US saying they won't pick him.
Row!
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 03:13:59 PMSaved.
Announcer was saying brazil has never beaten norway :ph34r:
Streak continues lol
Why are Norwegians so great at sports?
Quote from: Valmy on July 05, 2026, 04:44:07 PMWhy are Norwegians so great at sports?
They're big :P . And not just tall, like the evil Dutch.
Quote from: Valmy on July 05, 2026, 04:44:07 PMWhy are Norwegians so great at sports?
Also Haaland a lovable lug for Norway. An ogre for Man City who should probably be banned.
Quote from: Josquius on July 05, 2026, 04:34:12 PMWe need the US to lose now and the scorer of the winning goal against them to go "oh BTW my fiance is trans and we campaign against climate change together"
It's all very 1914 quite how strongly I feel about Belgium winning now.
Dolph strikes again!
Will Neymar turn the tide?
Great save by Nyland!
:w00t:
I think it's safe to say, Brazil is no longer a football powerhouse anymore.
The Vikings!
Quote from: Josephus on July 05, 2026, 04:52:45 PMI think it's safe to say, Brazil is no longer a football powerhouse anymore.
Need more favela boys.
Although could be worse, they could be Italy.
I`m sad to see Brazil go, but they`re not the old Brazil anymore are they :( .
Still, what a beautiful, clean game compared to the mess that was Paraguay-France yesterday.
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 04:53:46 PMQuote from: Josephus on July 05, 2026, 04:52:45 PMI think it's safe to say, Brazil is no longer a football powerhouse anymore.
Need more favela boys.
Although could be worse, they could be Italy.
Uncalled for Don Carlo! :P
That's dumb you're not gonna win a physical fight against the nords :lol:
Penalty for Brazil. :P
Guess they wanted to give neymar a goal for sympathies sake.
I have no idea why Brazil got a penalty there and I need to see a transcript of that debate between neymar and the keeper.
Still a bullshit call. And I wanted brazil to win.
So 5-0 Norwegian remains undefeated by Brazil
No extra time à la Portugal-Croatia this time, sorry.
Norway 2 Brazil 1
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 05:05:25 PMNo extra time à la Portugal-Croatia this time, sorry.
Norway 2 Brazil 1
Still got to like 15 minutes extra time, so close.
Bye, Brazil!
You mentioned the favellas and there is some truth to that. I've heard it said that today Brazilian soccer players are no longer plucked from the slums kicking tin cans around, but from the European style academies. Problem with that is the people who can afford the academies come from the middle class and that leaves out a huge chunk of Brazilian children, and that is part of the problem.
I wasn't being Facetious. Academies can train great players, but not with the classic style of Brazil. The beauty isn't there when you build by numbers. Every country can do that (with the right amount to of cash), but few can recreate the old brazil.
Another, lesser, problem is Brazilians leave brazil at larger numbers now so you lose cohesion.
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 05:06:02 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 05:05:25 PMNo extra time à la Portugal-Croatia this time, sorry.
Norway 2 Brazil 1
Still got to like 15 minutes extra time, so close.
15 > 12 :P
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 05:17:06 PMI wasn't being Facetious. Academies can train great players, but not with the classic style of Brazil. The beauty isn't there when you build by numbers. Every country can do that (with the right amount to of cash), but few can recreate the old brazil.
Another, lesser, problem is Brazilians leave brazil at larger numbers now so you lose cohesion.
What also made Brazil good, back in the day, was that they didn't play the European game. Their game was rhtyhmic, the
jogo bonito, less tactical than the European style. But over time, starting in the mid 80s perhaps, they shifted to the European style, perhaps influenced by the fact that, as you said, many of their guys were playing there.
Brazil lost what made them so good.
And, yeah, Pele.
Also just globalisation and everyone being able to watch each other. The days of some team turning up and no-one knowing how to play against them are gone.
I think it's part of why I liked France-Paraguay - bit of a throwback with a team just doing something totally different, that's their identity. Quite rare to see now.
Tactically, Brazilian clubs have been importing European coaches to close the gap, i.e Portuguese ones since they need to speak the language.
For the national squad, language matters less and Ancelotti can do a decent italianised portunhol. :D
P-S: jogo bonito died in 1982, killed by la Nazionale on July 5, precisely.
Before my time so I can't truly compare the early 80s style, but even into the 2000s with ronaldinho, ronaldo, Roberto Carlos they had a playful joyful style.
When it went downhill is when they stopped using nicknames hah
*edit not saying Roberto was the same style as the other two. I just like him and you could tell he enjoyed it. Not just enjoying the scoring or the winning, but the game itself.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 05, 2026, 05:39:37 PMAlso just globalisation and everyone being able to watch each other. The days of some team turning up and no-one knowing how to play against them are gone.
Tell that to the teams that faced cabo verde :P
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 05:47:15 PMBefore my time so I dant truly compare the early 80s style, but even into the 2000s with ronaldinho, ronaldo, Roberto Carlos they had a playful joyful style.
When it went downhill is when they stopped using nicknames hah
People were already complaining back then about the relatively defensive playstyle.
For the Canarinha that is.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 04:00:52 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 02:05:28 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 01:03:13 PMMeanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
:o Definitely the right decision to rescind the ban, but probably arrived at through a very tortured reading of the rules. There really should be a direct way to appeal clearly wrong decisions, obviously VAR is not a sufficient check on it as VAR referees themselves can make clear and obvious errors.
Uhhh he received a red card for serious foul play. Dude almost broke the ankle of the opponent, studs first didn't he.
You can't have a serious foul play if you don't even have a foul. It seemed like an accidental collision triggered in no small part by the foul of the other player.
Many thanks
WA_1783293897816.jpeg
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 05:40:32 PMP-S: jogo bonito died in 1982, killed by la Nazionale on July 5, precisely.
I said mid 80s....close enough ;)
Bah. England game delayed
Quote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 05:51:07 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 04:00:52 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 02:05:28 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 01:03:13 PMMeanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
:o Definitely the right decision to rescind the ban, but probably arrived at through a very tortured reading of the rules. There really should be a direct way to appeal clearly wrong decisions, obviously VAR is not a sufficient check on it as VAR referees themselves can make clear and obvious errors.
Uhhh he received a red card for serious foul play. Dude almost broke the ankle of the opponent, studs first didn't he.
You can't have a serious foul play if you don't even have a foul. It seemed like an accidental collision triggered in no small part by the foul of the other player.
Bruh.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HMfQ86CXcAA5pLo?format=jpg&name=large)
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 07:06:37 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 05:51:07 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 04:00:52 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 02:05:28 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 05, 2026, 01:03:13 PMMeanwhile, FIFA cancels a red card against the US (Balogun). :whistle:
Allez les Diables Rouges !
:o Definitely the right decision to rescind the ban, but probably arrived at through a very tortured reading of the rules. There really should be a direct way to appeal clearly wrong decisions, obviously VAR is not a sufficient check on it as VAR referees themselves can make clear and obvious errors.
Uhhh he received a red card for serious foul play. Dude almost broke the ankle of the opponent, studs first didn't he.
You can't have a serious foul play if you don't even have a foul. It seemed like an accidental collision triggered in no small part by the foul of the other player.
Bruh.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HMfQ86CXcAA5pLo?format=jpg&name=large)
I don't think anyone disputes that his cleats went into an ankle of the Bosnian player. I don't know what else you think this shows, it's kind of hard to ascertain from "bruh".
:lol: corruption is ok if my team benefits lol. Insane.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 07:13:11 PM:lol: corruption is ok if my team benefits lol. Insane.
So are you arguing that the red card was deserved, or are you arguing that the way it was "suspended" was corrupt? I was under impression we were debating the first point.
The red was deserved. It might have been an accident, but as a player you're responsible for your feet.
Quote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 05:51:07 PMYou can't have a serious foul play if you don't even have a foul. It seemed like an accidental collision triggered in no small part by the foul of the other player.
From an ex-ref in The Athletic - who is sympathetic to your point. Commentary here was very much as soon as you see the slow-motion it's going to be a red card:
Quote'Unlucky but inevitable' – an expert's view
Analysis by former Premier League referee Graham Scott
The introduction of VAR has created situations such as Balogun's red card.
He was dismissed for 'serious foul play', which deals with players who endanger the safety of an opponent. Historically, the law was invoked by referees when players went flying into tackles at high speed and out of control, without a moment's thought for the consequences.
Since we have had video review, the focus has shifted to the point of contact. Slow-motion replays and still images distort the offending player's actions, with innocuous tackles looking more serious.
By contrast, players who dive in, off the ground, with both feet can escape red cards if they happen to miss their opponent.
Lionel Messi's potential red card for Argentina against Algeria was a classic example. There is no intensity in his challenge, but the still images were ugly and on another day, he might have been sent off.
Balogun became a victim of this modern trend against Bosnia. His actions are all part of the normal rough and tumble of football, he is never out of control and the contact is accidental.
But the replays make for grim viewing, as Muharemovic's ankle buckles and he is clearly in distress — no simulation here.
I would prefer tackles like this to produce cautions at worst. Messi was let off completely, and there is nothing reckless about Balogun's actions either.
In the spirit of the law, Balogun was unlucky. But in its recent interpretation, a red card was inevitable.[/qote]
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 07:28:07 PMThe red was deserved. It might have been an accident, but as a player you're responsible for your feet.
That's way too broad. If someone puts their leg under your studs while you're walking, are you responsible for that as well, straight red card? The reason the studs got to the ankle in the first place is because a foul by the Bosnian precipitated a collision which Balogun could not get out of.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 05, 2026, 07:31:36 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 05:51:07 PMYou can't have a serious foul play if you don't even have a foul. It seemed like an accidental collision triggered in no small part by the foul of the other player.
From an ex-ref in The Athletic - who is sympathetic to your point. Commentary here was very much as soon as you see the slow-motion it's going to be a red card:
Quote'Unlucky but inevitable' – an expert's view
Analysis by former Premier League referee Graham Scott
The introduction of VAR has created situations such as Balogun's red card.
He was dismissed for 'serious foul play', which deals with players who endanger the safety of an opponent. Historically, the law was invoked by referees when players went flying into tackles at high speed and out of control, without a moment's thought for the consequences.
Since we have had video review, the focus has shifted to the point of contact. Slow-motion replays and still images distort the offending player's actions, with innocuous tackles looking more serious.
By contrast, players who dive in, off the ground, with both feet can escape red cards if they happen to miss their opponent.
Lionel Messi's potential red card for Argentina against Algeria was a classic example. There is no intensity in his challenge, but the still images were ugly and on another day, he might have been sent off.
Balogun became a victim of this modern trend against Bosnia. His actions are all part of the normal rough and tumble of football, he is never out of control and the contact is accidental.
But the replays make for grim viewing, as Muharemovic's ankle buckles and he is clearly in distress — no simulation here.
I would prefer tackles like this to produce cautions at worst. Messi was let off completely, and there is nothing reckless about Balogun's actions either.
In the spirit of the law, Balogun was unlucky. But in its recent interpretation, a red card was inevitable.
That goes to another problem: from what I understand, this is the exact reason why slow-motion replays should not be used for VAR review, unless the purpose is to establish a fact, like whether the player touched the ball. Studs to ankle on its own is not a strict liability red card offence it's made out to be, so focusing on just that with slow-motion replay was an error in its own right.
Quote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 07:34:22 PMThat's way too broad. If someone puts their leg under your studs while you're walking, are you responsible for that as well, straight red card? The reason the studs got to the ankle in the first place is because a foul by the Bosnian precipitated a collision which Balogun could not get out of.
Disagree completely. Wasn't much contact from the bosnian prior, Balogun's foot slips a bit prior to catching the ankle but that's a red card any day of the week for the past 20 years.
:bowler: :bowler:
England!!!!
I guess that's what the fireworks were for.
It's not over yet.
And how can you not love Pickford.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 08:59:38 PMIt's not over yet.
And how can you not love Pickford.
It certainly isn't.
God, this sport is stupid.
God, this sport is great
Is that a red, DGuller? lol
3-1 now. No contest penalty.
God this sport is crazy
lol what a game. MEX penalty now. 23 minutes to go.
Bis.
It seems like by rules Mexico should've gotten a penalty, but it seems ridiculous to me that you can get a penalty by getting your leg between the ball and the defender's leg after they've already set the kick in motion. I think penalties should never result from bad luck.
Your football opinions are terrible.
:pinch: :pinch: :pinch: That Mexican ankle.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 09:55:03 PMYour football opinions are terrible.
Give it a rest already. :rolleyes:
What a game
Mexico's Azteca delivers again.
Best game of this WC so far IMO.
Congrats England. That is not an easy place to win.
That was an incredibly entertaining game
Well shit. Norway has a lot of work to do now, to get rid of both England and Argentina.
Aw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
I know right? Norway has a saint's job to do.
Also, the UK doesn't really have a legitimate PM at the moment to help out Quansah , but maybe the UK players can pass around a hat and collect some cash. Just put it in an envelope and present it to infantino and see what happens.
Quote from: Maladict on July 05, 2026, 10:42:40 PMQuote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
I know right? Norway has a saint's job to do.
:D
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:43:14 PMAlso, the UK doesn't really have a legitimate PM at the moment to help out Quansah , but maybe the UK players can pass around a hat and collect some cash. Just put it in an envelope and present it to infantino and see what happens.
Maybe Charles could call him up.
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:43:14 PMAlso, the UK doesn't really have a legitimate PM at the moment to help out Quansah , but maybe the UK players can pass around a hat and collect some cash. Just put it in an envelope and present it to infantino and see what happens.
Reminds me of this :D
https://youtube.com/shorts/cQvnVYkTWc8?is=xYp1D5JDSOmf7GFS
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:43:14 PMAlso, the UK doesn't really have a legitimate PM at the moment to help out Quansah
I think it's spelled "Kwanzaa". :)
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 04:46:22 PMQuote from: Valmy on July 05, 2026, 04:44:07 PMWhy are Norwegians so great at sports?
They're big :P . And not just tall, like the evil Dutch.
In football for men, Norway has been rather shit most of my life. Three qualifications for major tournaments (1994, 1998, 2000) and lots of failed qualifiers. Norway's been better at individual sports than team sports, mostly, and at niche sports rather than the big ones.
Recent decades has seen public investment in physical infrastructure for training, play and spending free time for children. I do, however, think this moves in waves when it comes to talent. Right now, a lot of 6-15 year olds will be inspired to give football their all.
It was late when the match ended, so I went to bed.
Despite Brazil being on a downward trajectory, for a Norway team to beat them in a game with so much riding on it, will become part of the national fabric here. What struck me and surprised me was how Norway went about the beat Brazil. Keeping the ball, patiently, trying to be quick and incisive when Brazil were unbalanced.
If there were knighthoods in Norway, I believe goalkeeper Nyland would get one. Some almost impossible saves.
Much has been said about Haaland, but in the World Cup, centre back Ajer, midfielders Berg and Bobb and the tireless Sørloth have complimented the two big names, Haaland and Ødegaard.
Thing is, when this side faces England, many of the players have played these English players week in and out. Or not, because they're benched by lowly sides like Fulham or Brentford.
It'll be interesting to see if any club takes a chance on Nyland who is a free agent now.
Some harsh VARing for England. Croatia had that too. Does my mind play tricks or do I remember at the start of the tournament they were dodging using it even for obvious things?
Curious change.
I'm curious if any Cape Verde players are seeing upwards moves.
Jordan Henderson having to get stretchered off from the celebrations :lol:
Incredible win and mental strength.
Looking forward to the Lindisfarne grudge match :P
Edit: By the by England fans and journos over there absolutely unanimous Mexico should be hosting the final. Seems like it was an incredible atmosphere/experience - as well as all the history.
Edit: And I love him but the clip of Harry Kane trying to do an interview after the game having lost his voice is very funny.
Oslo: 30 people needed medical care after incidents involving fireworks. :lol:
A heatwave coming in this week will not make Norwegians behave more rationally.
Norway's coach, Ståle Solbakken, has a pacemaker. He's been dead. Literally. I fear for his heart every match, as he is incredibly involved and shouts his instructions from the sideline.
Norway's done better than most expected, so the players can breathe more freely and not feel too much weight of the expectations at home. This is something England's players cannot afford; the expectant crowd at home, especially the vitriolic tabloids and media coverage, could frazzle English nerves.
On paper England is much better than Norway. So, I actually think Norway can and will beat this English team. Ajer needs to put Kane in his pocket, though.
Also, was there any trouble from the pubs being open all night?
Hope not and it can be take as evidence for liberalising opening hours.
A prediction for the days ahead which sounds unfortunate but probable-
QuoteAs in 1066 England will prevail against the Norwegians before tragically losing to the French a couple of weeks later.
Quote from: Josquius on July 06, 2026, 03:19:08 AMAlso, was there any trouble from the pubs being open all night?
Hope not and it can be take as evidence for liberalising opening hours.
I can only speak for Norway, which during the World Cup has 24 hour opening hours. No incidents worth mentioning except loud singing and roars that made the Richter's scale.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 05, 2026, 07:13:11 PM:lol: corruption is ok if my team benefits lol. Insane.
L'attachement à l'esprit sportif à géométrie variable est tout sauf nouveau.
Europe whilst they sleep tonight:
(https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:yecq6nvti7zsqgabfffinzy6/bafkreiefhburfdafdsnc5pgnnwur66wibpdqmopxnx6rg4xv3ljspgl7sm)
Quote from: DGuller on July 05, 2026, 09:36:09 PMIt seems like by rules Mexico should've gotten a penalty, but it seems ridiculous to me that you can get a penalty by getting your leg between the ball and the defender's leg after they've already set the kick in motion.
I think penalties should never result from bad luck.
Good luck with that.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7424790/2026/07/06/folarin-balogun-red-belgium-explanation/?source=emp_shared_article&unlocked_article_code=1.vlA.uKkt.29vttW2CrA3m (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7424790/2026/07/06/folarin-balogun-red-belgium-explanation/?source=emp_shared_article&unlocked_article_code=1.vlA.uKkt.29vttW2CrA3m)
Belgian football federation granted right to appeal.
Not that it matters much.
Look forward to the USA, like Morocco, finally achieving victory three months into half time in an air conditioned room in Switzerland.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 06, 2026, 04:25:13 AMLook forward to the USA, like Morocco, finally achieving victory three months into half time in an air conditioned room in Switzerland.
:lol: :ph34r: :cry:
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jul/06/belgium-appeal-fifa-lifting-folarin-balogun-red-card-ban-last-16-us-world-cup (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jul/06/belgium-appeal-fifa-lifting-folarin-balogun-red-card-ban-last-16-us-world-cup)
Even the UEFA finds FIFA corruption too much. :lol:
QuoteUefa accuses Fifa of 'crossing a red line' over lifting of Folarin Balogun's red card
Decision is 'incomprehensible and unjustifiable'
Belgium appeal against striker's availability for tie
Uefa has hit out at Fifa's decision to lift USA striker Folarin Balogun's suspension for Monday's last-16 tie with Belgium, describing the move as "incomprehensible and unjustifiable" and accusing world football's governing of crossing "a red line".
Europe's governing body made no bones over their opposition to the shock call, one Belgium have been granted an appeal against. There are no guarantees, however, over when that decision will be made or whether Fifa's reasoning for lifting Balogun's' suspension will be made public.
Donald Trump repeatedly lobbied Fifa to lift Balogun's suspension, with sources telling the Guardian the US president made three calls to Fifa, starting on Wednesday, after Balogun was sent off in the USA's 2-0 last-16 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, to ensure the change was made.
"Yesterday's decision to suspend for a probationary period of a year the implementation of the one-match automatic suspension following the red card issued to the player Folarin Balogun crossed a red line," read Uefa's statement. "Football, like any other sports, relies on rules, which are the basis for fair, honest and transparent competition. Sometimes rules are open to interpretation. In this case not.
Folarin Balogun is pictured walking during a US game.
Explained: Folarin Balogun's World Cup red-card reversal, Trump's phone calls and Fifa's rationale
Read more
"A minimum automatic suspension of one match following a red card is not a discretionary option and does not require the decision of a competent body to be enacted. It is a principle embedded in regulations, which cannot be made subject to exceptions, let alone in the middle of a tournament where several other players have been in the same situation and regularly served their suspension.
"When the certainty of rules is no longer guaranteed by its guardians, the integrity of the game is at stake and the credibility of a competition is undermined. Equally, such decision creates a precedent in the ongoing tournament, where similar situations will now require an equal treatment, to the detriment of the competition. We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision."
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) expressed their own "astonishment" on Sunday at Fifa's decision to rescind Balogun's one-game ban, with their manager, Rudi Garcia, comparing it to an April Fools' Day joke.
To compound Belgium's anger, it is understood that the RBFA has not received the reasons for Balogun's ban being overturned, which has only been explained by a brief reference to Article 27 of Fifa's disciplinary code, which gives its judicial committee the authority to "fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure". As a result, the RBFA has essentially submitted their appeal blind, and has not received any information on timings.
As per Fifa regulations, the appeal will be heard by a member of Fifa's appeals committee that does not represent Uefa or Concacaf, the federations that Belgium and USA are members of, to avoid a potential conflict of interest. Fifa's disciplinary processes are now under huge scrutiny, however, due to the unprecedented nature of Balogun's reprieve and the revelation that Trump was heavily involved in getting the 25-year-old's red card rescinded.
The RBFA's appeal is unlikely to be the end of the matter, as they have made clear that they are exploring legal action against Fifa, whom they claim have broken their own statutes.
Belgium's foreign minister, Maxime Prévot, a former referee, has also hit out at Fifa's intervention, saying: "If a phone call is really the reason for this incomprehensible decision, it would be a blatant violation of the most basic rules of football and sport". Meanwhile, Glen Micallef, European commissioner for intergenerational fairness, youth, culture and sport, said: "Decisions �on sporting rules �and sporting matters belong to �sporting bodies, not �politicians. �Influencing sporting decisions would undermine the autonomy of sport."
The USA manager, Mauricio Pochettino, praised Fifa's move and reiterated his view that the decision by Brazilian referee, Raphael Claus, to show Balogun a red card for making contact with Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic was harsh.
"Everyone that really loves the sport and trusts ethics and integrity, I think we celebrate all that decision," Pochettino said. "We were punished enough against Bosnia Herzegovina to play with 10 men for 30 minutes [because of] a decision that was completely unfair ... 99.9% of people agree there was an unfair red card."
UEFA complaining is definitely an Aliens vs Predator scenario :lol:
But yeah, I've always adopted USA as one of my second teams in World Cups, but this moves them to the villain column. Sorry guys!
Yep, the American taint will hopefully be removed this round.
I like how the Belgian FA has "royal" in its name. Is whatever genetically unfortunate sitting the throne the high protector? Make him or her phone Infantino.
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
Go Spain
:nelson:
You know you're a corrupt FIFA president when Sept Blatter calls you out for being corrupt
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 08:22:34 AMQuote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
Go Spain
:nelson:
England never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 08:23:47 AMYou know you're a corrupt FIFA president when Sept Blatter calls you out for being corrupt
Sepp was corrupt but seemed to actually like the sport. The Baby is just corrupt.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 06, 2026, 02:55:52 AMJordan Henderson having to get stretchered off from the celebrations :lol:
0 minutes played, yellow card, and stretchered out for a hospital visit. Impressive :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMEngland never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
Malta voted to join the UK in a referendum on the 50s and we said no :( (The Home Office and the Treasury blocked it, because they're monsters.)
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMQuote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 08:22:34 AMQuote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
Go Spain
:nelson:
England never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
England didn't release us....we escaped
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 06, 2026, 09:46:59 AMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMEngland never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
Malta voted to join the UK in a referendum on the 50s and we said no :( (The Home Office and the Treasury blocked it, because they're monsters.)
Yeah. I mean even I'm too old to have been there, and we didn't really study it in history (I was only there in elementary school), but my understanding is that it was the Labour Party of Malta that sought integration. When they were turned down, it's leader Dom Mintoff became very anti-British, led the fight in the 70s to become a Republic, kicked the British bases out, and made Malta officially a neutral country.
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 10:54:23 AMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMQuote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 08:22:34 AMQuote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 10:30:08 PMAw fuck you're gonna make me cheer for Argentina, aren't you :yucky:
Go Spain
:nelson:
England never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
England didn't release us....we escaped
Well played
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 10:59:58 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on July 06, 2026, 09:46:59 AMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMEngland never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
Malta voted to join the UK in a referendum on the 50s and we said no :( (The Home Office and the Treasury blocked it, because they're monsters.)
Yeah. I mean even I'm too old to have been there, and we didn't really study it in history (I was only there in elementary school), but my understanding is that it was the Labour Party of Malta that sought integration. When they were turned down, it's leader Dom Mintoff became very anti-British, led the fight in the 70s to become a Republic, kicked the British bases out, and made Malta officially a neutral country.
So he became the bitter ex? :D
Malta actually looks pretty cool. It'd be nice to visit. Probably in winter, I hear it gets very hot.
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 10:59:58 AMQuote from: Sheilbh on July 06, 2026, 09:46:59 AMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 08:24:40 AMEngland never should have released Malta from under its heel :P
Malta voted to join the UK in a referendum on the 50s and we said no :( (The Home Office and the Treasury blocked it, because they're monsters.)
Yeah. I mean even I'm too old to have been there, and we didn't really study it in history (I was only there in elementary school), but my understanding is that it was the Labour Party of Malta that sought integration. When they were turned down, it's leader Dom Mintoff became very anti-British, led the fight in the 70s to become a Republic, kicked the British bases out, and made Malta officially a neutral country.
Makes sense. If you aren't allowed to become an equal partner, time to leave.
Reading the Reddit before and after the red card suspension is so revealing. Rightly or wrongly, before the Trump intervention, the hefty majority opinion was that the red card was a wrong outcome. It wasn't a unanimous conclusion, but it was a majority conclusion. There was an expectation that a review of the red card could result in it being rescinded. There was then a sense of dismay when everyone found out that unlike in other leagues, there was no mechanism to rescind a red card in FIFA World Cup.
Now that Trump inserted himself, the overwhelming view is that the red card was fully deserved. The dynamic sadden me, to be honest. Both things can be true: red card should not have been given, and it should not have been "suspended" due to Trump intervention. Whatever the facts are, the fact that opinions, right or mistaken, have shifted so dramatically because of events unrelated to the foul itself, is disheartening.
From what I read everyone thought the reversal was stupid. Once the truth came out everyone thought it was stupid and corrupt. So :shrug
Question though, Dguller, are you a regular football watched? Based on your comments in this thread im lead to believe not, but I may be wrong.
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 11:46:15 AMFrom what I read everyone thought the reversal was stupid. Once the truth came out everyone thought it was stupid and corrupt. So :shrug
I'm talking about the conversation from the beginning. The red card happened on Wednesday, reversal came on Sunday. "Suspension" itself smelled very suspect even before Trump's involvement became known, I myself wrote that at the time.
My point is, whether the opinion about the red card was well-informed or ill-informed, it shouldn't be affected by subsequent events. The facts didn't change since Wednesday. Clearly it has been affected rather profoundly.
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 11:48:34 AMQuestion though, Dguller, are you a regular football watched? Based on your comments in this thread im lead to believe not, but I may be wrong.
I'm not a regular football watcher now, I only watch it if I'm in the company of soccer watchers, but I have been watching regularly earlier in my life. Soccer was the only sport of note in the USSR, even if it was rather poor at playing it in international events.
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 11:42:16 AMReading the Reddit before and after the red card suspension is so revealing. Rightly or wrongly, before the Trump intervention, the hefty majority opinion was that the red card was a wrong outcome. It wasn't a unanimous conclusion, but it was a majority conclusion. There was an expectation that a review of the red card could result in it being rescinded. There was then a sense of dismay when everyone found out that unlike in other leagues, there was no mechanism to rescind a red card in FIFA World Cup.
Now that Trump inserted himself, the overwhelming view is that the red card was fully deserved. The dynamic sadden me, to be honest. Both things can be true: red card should not have been given, and it should not have been "suspended" due to Trump intervention. Whatever the facts are, the fact that opinions, right or mistaken, have shifted so dramatically because of events unrelated to the foul itself, is disheartening.
That speaks more to where you get your information
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 11:53:21 AMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 11:46:15 AMFrom what I read everyone thought the reversal was stupid. Once the truth came out everyone thought it was stupid and corrupt. So :shrug
I'm talking about the conversation from the beginning. The red card happened on Wednesday, reversal came on Sunday. "Suspension" itself smelled very suspect even before Trump's involvement became known, I myself wrote that at the time.
My point is, whether the opinion about the red card was well-informed or ill-informed, it shouldn't be affected by subsequent events. The facts didn't change since Wednesday. Clearly it has been affected rather profoundly.
But thats the thing, people thought the reversal was stupid because they thought card was valid. A stupid decision can be reached legitimately, although unlikely in the world of fifa :lol: .
Also depends what reddit sources you're reading. Its not exactly the most unbiased of sources :P
For example, ronaldos suspended red card. People can rightly call that a stupid decision. Other side can make arguments that it was before the tournament. Each side can have valid arguments. But that different from a card in the tournament and a suspended sentence bought or demanded by an oligarch.
*edit* and I get thats not your main argument, you're arguing about a change of view about the very nature of the call (which I didn't see beyond American pundits) but it goes a long way to explaining a hardened view you describe (which again i did not see, just offering a plausible explaination)
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 06, 2026, 11:57:42 AMThat speaks more to where you get your information
Presumably dguller's reddit soccer feed focuses on the USMNT and American soccer fans. It would make sense that American supporters would almost unanimously find the red card dubious and likely to be rescinded. Similarly, it would make sense that once Trump became involved there'd be a division along partisan lines as to whether political influence should be used to influence sport rules decisions or not.
In the spaces I'm in, there was a clear current of Americans bemoaning the red (which is perfectly normal, most fan bases are good at finding reasons for why the red cards they received were unfair, that's not a uniquely American thing at all), while non-Americans massively leaned towards "yeah that's a red", with variation between "okay it was marginal, but still a reasonable call" to "of course that's a red, you can't put your studs on someone's legs like that".
Similarly, in the spaces I'm in the only ones who are defending Trump's intercession are Americans (or bots posing as Americans).
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 12:03:53 PMBut thats the thing, people thought the reversal was stupid because they thought card was valid. A stupid decision can be reached legitimately, although unlikely in the world of fifa :lol: .
It's hard to tell. There wasn't enough time between the suspension being announced and Trump news breaking. My personal feeling before hearing about Trump was that it was a wrong way to get the right result, and the biggest problem was that there was no right way to get the right result. Apparently the ref can have a nervous breakdown and red card everyone and everything, and there is no way in the rule book to clean up the mess.
QuoteAlso depends what reddit sources you're reading. Its not exactly the most unbiased of sources :P
I was reading World Cup reddit, as well as a referee reddit. I also visited a referee blog, as well as a referee forum, where other referees evaluate the performance of the referee team for every match.
All of the non-American sources I read said it was a clear red card foul. And if that were to happen in a European league, the player would likely be banned for some period of time for such a dangerous foul.
I'm not sure what universe you inhabit but it's very different from mine.
What's the argument for it not being a red card? I dont get it. I've re-watched the play several times. Its a dangerous challenge. Balogun didn't even contest it.
Even the might of americas corruption could get corrupt FIFA to say the call was wrong, just that the punishment is being delayed with probation :P
Quote from: Zoupa on July 06, 2026, 01:49:41 PMWhat's the argument for it not being a red card? I dont get it. I've re-watched the play several times. Its a dangerous challenge. Balogun didn't even contest it.
Not only did he not contest it he said it was a yellow card... which in footballer speak means he knows it was a red :lol:
Quote from: Zoupa on July 06, 2026, 01:49:41 PMWhat's the argument for it not being a red card? I dont get it. I've re-watched the play several times. Its a dangerous challenge. Balogun didn't even contest it.
No idea, but DGuller gets a lot of things wrong in his post so I'm not really taking it at face value that there is a large number of even Americans that think it was the wrong call.
The other thing that he says in his post is that he learned from what he read that there's no way to appeal a red card. That is also completely false, but it shows the quality of what he was reading.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 06, 2026, 01:49:41 PMWhat's the argument for it not being a red card? I dont get it. I've re-watched the play several times. Its a dangerous challenge. Balogun didn't even contest it.
Two main arguments for it not being a red card:
1) It was a collision and/or a foul by the Bosnian player, not a challenge or a tackle.
2) The VAR protocol was not followed with regard to the use of slow-motion replay.
Dont agree with number one, and Number two in no way invalidate the tackle being worthy of a red card though.
Let's go portugal!
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 02:00:19 PMDont agree with number one, and Number two in no way invalidate the tackle being a a red card though.
The second argument is partly legalistic, but not wholly. The very reason slow-motion replay is against protocol is because it can remove the context of the incident, and also make things look worse than they are.
A direct red card prevents the player from playing the next game usually. May be more, may be appealed but not by a politician calling his FIFA lackey.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 06, 2026, 02:04:00 PMA direct red card prevents the player from playing the next game usually. May be more, may be appealed but not by a politician calling his FIFA lackey.
One of the problems in this whole saga is that in a World Cup, there is no avenue for appeal. You can appeal a ban being longer than one game, but you can't get a red card rescinded no matter the circumstances.
Ok Spain vs. Portugal, the battle of Tordesillas to see who really rules the non-European World.
Quote from: Valmy on July 06, 2026, 02:10:18 PMOk Spain vs. Portugal, the battle of Tordesillas to see who really rules the non-European World.
Being called the battle of the original colonizers :D
Although that'll probably piss off the Irish and Welsh.
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 02:12:15 PMAlthough that'll probably piss off the Irish
Most everything does. Fortunately they don't hold grudges.
But colonizing in your own neighborhood is the sort of thing everybody had been doing for centuries. Spain and Portugal were taking the show on the road.
Quote from: Valmy on July 06, 2026, 02:12:54 PMQuote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 02:12:15 PMAlthough that'll probably piss off the Irish
Most everything does. Fortunately they don't hold grudges.
Added the Welsh. I, like everyone else, forgot about them
Quote from: Valmy on July 06, 2026, 02:12:54 PMBut colonizing in your own neighborhood is the sort of thing everybody had been doing for centuries. Spain and Portugal were taking the show on the road.
Hey, they had to cross a sea, it counts :lol:
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 02:08:40 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 06, 2026, 02:04:00 PMA direct red card prevents the player from playing the next game usually. May be more, may be appealed but not by a politician calling his FIFA lackey.
One of the problems in this whole saga is that in a World Cup, there is no avenue for appeal. You can appeal a ban being longer than one game, but you can't get a red card rescinded no matter the circumstances.
Yes, there is. Where the hell are you getting your information from?
So far its the battle of short people trying to head the ball
Quote from: HVC on July 05, 2026, 04:10:59 PMAlso, what's this about the premier leagues worst ref being given the reins over the Spain - Portugal game?
Never got an answer, is he really that bad?
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 02:12:15 PMQuote from: Valmy on July 06, 2026, 02:10:18 PMOk Spain vs. Portugal, the battle of Tordesillas to see who really rules the non-European World.
Being called the battle of the original colonizers :D
Although that'll probably piss off the Irish and Welsh.
And Vikings even more, but then they got the boot from the Skrælings. :P
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 02:08:40 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 06, 2026, 02:04:00 PMA direct red card prevents the player from playing the next game usually. May be more, may be appealed but not by a politician calling his FIFA lackey.
One of the problems in this whole saga is that in a World Cup, there is no avenue for appeal. You can appeal a ban being longer than one game, but you can't get a red card rescinded no matter the circumstances.
Totally disagree. This but also the various sagas in the premier league and the general approach over Croatia and Portugal, I think we have an overabundance of a technical/data/legalist perspective.
Pretty balanced game so far.
Nuno Mendes out, injured.
Damn!
Can't believe I have to root for freaking Belgium now. I was completely fine with the US going far this tournament (but not too far, mind you).
Sorry HVC
Seems Guedes won't play a minute at all this tournament.
:cry: I hate football
Plus no Gonçalo Ramos, yet 90 minutes of CR7.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 06, 2026, 03:55:51 PMPlus no Gonçalo Ramos, yet 90 minutes of CR7.
Maybe he'll only play 60 when he's 45.
Last chance to equalise failed, it's over.
All the lusophones are out. I'm now a Norwegian fan :D
We can unite in hating England now :console:
Nice try, nice effort Ronaldo.
Quote from: Maladict on July 06, 2026, 04:05:13 PMWe can unite in hating England now :console:
It's all i have left now :lol:
I am sorry HVC
But you can now row with us :D
Quote from: Maladict on July 06, 2026, 04:05:13 PMWe can unite in hating England now :console:
I can never hate them. They beat Mexico.
I had two big fears for this World Cup:
1. Donald Trump inserting himself.
2. Canada or Mexico getting further than us.
And England saved me from #2.
:showoff:
God our games against Portugal are always so boring and so tense at the same time :lol:
I presume we'll be getting the USA next.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 06, 2026, 04:06:57 PMI am sorry HVC
But you can now row with us :D
My preferred choice is Norway takes out England and argentina*. Second option, after some consideration, is that England takes out Argentina and then suffers a crushing heart wrenching defeat to France.
My love is gone, all that drives me now is spite. Sweet, sweet seething spite :ultra:
*assuming Colombia doesn't beat them to it
I like England
:ph34r: :bowler:
Nobodies perfect :P
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 04:13:49 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 06, 2026, 04:06:57 PMI am sorry HVC
But you can now row with us :D
My preferred choice is Norway takes out England and argentina*. Second option, after some consideration, is that England takes out Argentina and then suffers a crushing heart wrenching defeat to France.
My love is gone, all that drives me now is spite. Sweet, sweet seething spite :ultra:
*assuming Colombia doesn't beat them to it
Beating Norway only to be trounced by the French? 960 years of hurt :(
Quote from: HVC on July 06, 2026, 04:13:49 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 06, 2026, 04:06:57 PMI am sorry HVC
But you can now row with us :D
My preferred choice is Norway takes out England and argentina*. Second option, after some consideration, is that England takes out Argentina and then suffers a crushing heart wrenching defeat to France.
My love is gone, all that drives me now is spite. Sweet, sweet seething spite :ultra:
*assuming Colombia doesn't beat them to it
:D
I think the US team has to figure out how to deal with the fact that there are Belgian defenders between them and the Belgian goal.
Well, that aged poorly in an instant.
And re-aged in an instant.
Absolutely embarrassing displaying of incompetence
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 06, 2026, 08:23:37 PMAbsolutely embarrassing displaying of incompetence
Looking at the bright side, US is a quality team: one shot on target, one goal. Sure, Belgium has three goals, but they needed six shots on target to get there.
My office has a final pool going.
I've put down Suisse has getting out of that side of the bracket. Everyone else was way too chalky for me.
Justice served. Belgium were playing with them. And you'll notice that the US goal came from a freekick, from a non-existent foul on Balogun.
The US is miles behind European football.
Soccer is a just sport
Football is life
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 09:32:38 PMSoccer is a just sport
Or, should be. But the Americans have crossed yet another Rubicon.
Well as if this day couldn't be any more embarrasing for the USMNT they ended up getting their asses kicked.
One day turned this from looking like our best World Cup ever to a face planting humiliation and disgrace. Thanks Trump.
Son of a bitch.
To be honest you kicked the hornet's nest there. I haven't seen Belgium play that passionate since their semi-final against us 8 years ago.
I think it was classy of Balogun to refuse to play despite being granted the "suspension".
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 10:40:50 PMI think it was classy of Balogun to refuse to play despite being granted the "suspension".
:lol: :hug:
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 10:40:50 PMI think it was classy of Balogun to refuse to play despite being granted the "suspension".
:lol:
Americans are the embodiment of solidarity. None of them showed up.
Quote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 09:32:38 PMSoccer is a just sport
No.
Paraguay 0 - 1 France
Brazil 1 - 2 Norway
Mexico 2 - 3 England
US 1 - 4 Belgium
I confess I have not watched the full games of last night.
The results, though...
While I have not watched all of Portugal's games, a team of such talent seems to me to have been hindered more than helped by CR7. I suspect the stories of other players' discontent regarding his role now emerging will be only the tip of the iceberg.
Spain fails to entertain me in the fashion the earlier tiki-taka champions did, but well done, I suppose.
The United States' run is over. I hope The Athletic writer who was quite confident the US could win the World Cup never stops believing, but perhaps also looks at other teams before making grandiose statements.
Tonight, I am as Egyptian as Nasser and Cleopatra. Or something. :ph34r:
On the US red card. Part of football (for better or worse) is the ref sometimes getting it wrong or making a bad decision that another ref wouldn't have done.
But unless it's so egregious that it can't stand you have to live with it. A Bundesliga match from the 90s comes to mind where a Bayern player hit the ball closely past the goal but it ended up in the side of the net. The ref thought it had gone into the goal. After review, the match was repeated. With red cards you might sometimes get a multi-match ban reduced on appeal - say, instead of 3 matches you miss 1.
And WC refereeing can be inconsistent and all over the place - you often bring in less experienced refs from smaller federations because you want to be inclusive and give them some additional experience.
At any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation. Whether you agree with the red card or not, it's not significantly worse than other decisions that stood in the past or in this tournament or that will doubtlessly occur in future tournaments.
I guess Merz should have given Ifantino a call after the disallowed goal in Germany-Paraguay.
Quote from: Crazy_Ivan80 on July 07, 2026, 01:32:26 AMQuote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 09:32:38 PMSoccer is a just sport
It's warfare by other means
This is true. It can in many countries be the most uniting thing. I am curious, does it unite Belgians?
For Norway's part, the World Cup has been a love-fest.
Quote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
Good point
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
I'm sure they've learned their lesson and they will make sure Saudi-Arabia is squeaky clean for the 2032 World Cup. :)
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaehLmAsYNE
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
Kind of hollow to throw qatar up as a shield when they're your allie and good friend :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 03:12:19 AMQuote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
Kind of hollow to throw qatar up as a shield when they're your allie and good friend :lol:
"What's a Boeing for 400M among friends?"
Quote from: DGuller on July 06, 2026, 08:34:46 PMQuote from: jimmy olsen on July 06, 2026, 08:23:37 PMAbsolutely embarrassing displaying of incompetence
Looking at the bright side, US is a quality team: one shot on target, one goal. Sure, Belgium has three goals, but they needed six shots on target to get there.
:lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 03:12:19 AMQuote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
Kind of hollow to throw qatar up as a shield when they're your allie and good friend :lol:
Qatar is Timmy's ally and friend? :huh:
I'm rather disappointed by some of these US fans reactions to the red card saga:
BBC - Washington DC reactions. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/cly77en9z9lo)
The end justifies the means? :unsure:
Thank God they don't play cricket.
IMO the world at large is quite tired of America's antics and it would have been nice to have our little make-believe "the world is fun" tournament that we only get every 4 years. But no. Trump had to enshitify that too.
The root of the problem is still FIFA. I wonder if alternatives were ever attempted.
Quote from: Norgy on July 07, 2026, 02:14:33 AMQuote from: Crazy_Ivan80 on July 07, 2026, 01:32:26 AMQuote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 09:32:38 PMSoccer is a just sport
It's warfare by other means
This is true. It can in many countries be the most uniting thing. I am curious, does it unite Belgians?
For Norway's part, the World Cup has been a love-fest.
A Spanish pundit once put it quite beautifully, imho. "The most important of the unimportant things"
FIFA is probably going to award him an extra special world cup trophy.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 05:15:09 AMIMO the world at large is quite tired of America's antics and it would have been nice to have our little make-believe "the world is fun" tournament that we only get every 4 years. But no. Trump had to enshitify that too.
The root of the problem is still FIFA. I wonder if alternatives were ever attempted.
Hey, if FIFA wasn't enabling him we could have all just ignored him.
Corruption in sports is not new. Heads of state intervening is novel, though.
The money involved in football lends the sport to a certain level of shady business, and ideally we'd want the institutions like FIFA, and in Europe's case, UEFA, to be a bulwark against this.
However, this has not been the case. UEFA got the Swede Lennart Johansson as president back in 1990 to tidy up what had become a poor reputation. The 17 years under Johansson were probably clean-ish, but it saw the birth of money machine UEFA Champions League and a few attempts at a super league.
Johansson sadly lost to Blatter when corrupter-in-chief Joao Havelange retired in 1997.
I very much doubt all was well in FIFA before Havelange, quite the opposite, but the big money deals started coming then.
Infantino was seen as a good choice, as he was a professional and a lawyer with some distance from Blatter and Havelange, but he really has managed to top them both.
It does seem that the system lacks any internal checks and balances and any real oversight, and that when it comes down to it, corrupt national federations will happily play along with the FIFA leadership. So if the UN is impotent, FIFA has the opposite problem, it is hard for cash all the time.
Havelange ran FIFA as a business, which ideally should not be the primary focus. Blatter and Infantino have both continued down that path with even more stinky dealings than Havelange had.
However, show me some clean Euro/Canadian/American/East Asian that would be acceptable to national federations...
Quote from: Norgy on July 07, 2026, 02:14:33 AMQuote from: Crazy_Ivan80 on July 07, 2026, 01:32:26 AMQuote from: Josephus on July 06, 2026, 09:32:38 PMSoccer is a just sport
It's warfare by other means
This is true. It can in many countries be the most uniting thing. I am curious, does it unite Belgians?
For Norway's part, the World Cup has been a love-fest.
Yes and no. Only for the duration but also the national FA is so uniting they can't even be bothered to use Dutch half the time. 'Tous ensemble! Et pour les flamands la même chose'
That said: everyone is quite satisfied with the result
Quote from: Norgy on July 07, 2026, 05:29:19 AMCorruption in sports is not new. Heads of state intervening is novel, though.
It is, in fact, quite old. Mussolini picking referees in 1934 comes to mind.
And I recall some Arab sheik jumping onto the pitch to protest the referee in 1982? :lol:
EDIT: Kuwaiti. It trumps Trump certainly, the guy got a goal rescinded, not a trifling red card https://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/6lf15w/til_of_a_1982_world_cup_incident_where_kuwaits/
I mean, during the 1978 World Cup in Argentina the German team was visited by Hans-Ulrich Rudel (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans-Ulrich_Rudel), WW2 pilot and nazi who had fled to Argentina. Hermann Neuberger, head of the German FA (DFB), said at the time that not allowing him to visit would be an insult to all German soldiers. Meanwhile, while visiting Argentina in 1977, the DFB apparently knew that German student Elisabeth Käsemann (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elisabeth_K%C3%A4semann) was imprisoned there but didn't bring it up (she was killed same year by the Junta). Berti Vogts said after the World Cup, "Argentina is an orderly country. I didn't see any political prisoners."
Quote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 02:48:23 AMQuote from: jimmy olsen on July 07, 2026, 02:16:02 AMQuote from: Syt on July 07, 2026, 01:28:18 AMAt any rate, in this case I think FIFA taking it back (with or without Trump interference) is just another big stain on their plenty tarnished reputation.
I mean FIFA is complicit in the fucking Arab slave trade, officiating decisions and red cards hardly matters in the face of that.
I'm sure they've learned their lesson and they will make sure Saudi-Arabia is squeaky clean for the 2034 World Cup. :)
2034, not 2032.
Don't give Gianni ideas! :P
Quote from: Norgy on July 07, 2026, 05:29:19 AMI very much doubt all was well in FIFA before Havelange, quite the opposite, but the big money deals started coming then.
Infantino was seen as a good choice, as he was a professional and a lawyer with some distance from Blatter and Havelange, but he really has managed to top them both.
I would not put Jules Rimet in the same league however, despite having his role embellished in that awful United Passions movie a.k.a Blatter's vanity project.
Stanley Rous doing everything to favour England, à la Platini for France on a smaller scale, on the other hand...
(https://i.ibb.co/gLFhBct1/image.png)
Are you saying a lifelong servant of the British Empire would have the interests of the Home Nations at heart?
Leafing through the pages of the history of football in the early 20th century is reading about chaos. Two competing league structures in the United States in the 1920s, two competing football federations in Italy prior to Il Duce taking an interest in the opportunity for spectacles, the class conflicts, regional conflicts, everything brought into football.
In the 1930s, Norway had two competing sports federations, based on political leaning.
It is a wonder there is a World Cup, really. That being said, I really have to scroll a bit on a news sites to find something non-World Cup news.
I almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
Quote from: Maladict on July 07, 2026, 08:25:19 AMI almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
Now that would quite the sight. Worth the annoyance of so much football
Quote from: mongers on July 07, 2026, 04:42:27 AMI'm rather disappointed by some of these US fans reactions to the red card saga:
BBC - Washington DC reactions. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/cly77en9z9lo)
The end justifies the means? :unsure:
The sentiment that it wasn't even a foul so the ends justifies the means even if the means weren't great, was DGuller's point.
Quote from: Maladict on July 07, 2026, 08:25:19 AMI almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
Now imagine Morocco winning the tournament, praying at midfield, and then being presented the trophy by Trump.
Quote from: Maladict on July 07, 2026, 08:25:19 AMI almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
I'm just hoping the whole stadium boos Trump and Infantino when the time comes.
Probably won't happen though.
Changing the topic a bit, a witty piece about the trauma of Brazilian fans
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dac9B78sjDV/?igsh=cjU0eWY4YXhxZHVy
Also in happier news, Colombian fans saying good morning to the team in Vancouver
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Daezr9UvDYi/?igsh=b3NldHh1aTl6bTFp
Quote from: Jacob on July 07, 2026, 09:27:43 AMQuote from: Maladict on July 07, 2026, 08:25:19 AMI almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
I'm just hoping the whole stadium boos Trump and Infantino when the time comes.
Probably won't happen though.
Perfect opportunity for the aussie chant.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 07, 2026, 08:54:18 AMQuote from: Maladict on July 07, 2026, 08:25:19 AMI almost hope Belgium wins the whole thing so Trump will have to hand them the trophy.
Now imagine Morocco winning the tournament, praying at midfield, and then being presented the trophy by Trump.
Whether they win or lose: more than a few cities in western europe will likely be turned into warzones again. 'Festivities'.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 07, 2026, 09:34:41 AMChanging the topic a bit, a witty piece about the trauma of Brazilian fans
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dac9B78sjDV/?igsh=cjU0eWY4YXhxZHVy
:lol:
I believe some Swedes are so fed up with "Ro!" now that there will be violence.
Hope the US team thought it was worth it. I won't take them seriously again.
Quote from: The Brain on July 07, 2026, 10:17:22 AMHope the US team thought it was worth it. I won't take them seriously again.
The sports writer at the globe and mail had the same sentiment
QuoteI can think of only one thing more satiric than the only country on Earth that still routinely makes fun of soccer fixing the world's biggest soccer tournament in their own favour. That would be fixing it and losing anyway.
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on July 07, 2026, 04:56:02 AMThank God they don't play cricket.
This and seriously too. I think the response of some, who I think are fairly liberal, has been shocking to me. Either a habituation to corruption or perhaps just a cultural difference between the Anglo and American bit of the English speaking world.
Huh, learned today that Pochettino's salary was subsidized by an American billionaire.
Quote from: The Brain on July 07, 2026, 10:17:22 AMHope the US team thought it was worth it. I won't take them seriously again.
Always going against the grain, The Brain.
Belgium doing the Trump dance in their dressing room is almost worth America embarrassing themselves on the field and off lol
Ahahahah the power of Ra
The Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:18:29 AMThe Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
I know, and argentina will probably win, its just funny.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:19:34 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:18:29 AMThe Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
I know, and argentina will probably win, its just funny.
Guess what, penalty for Argentina. :lol:
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:21:03 AMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:19:34 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:18:29 AMThe Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
I know, and argentina will probably win, its just funny.
Guess what, penalty for Argentina. :lol:
Infantino doesn't even need calls from Argentina's president to ensure favoritism. Thats dedication :P
Messi really sucks at penalties
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:21:03 AMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:19:34 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:18:29 AMThe Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
I know, and argentina will probably win, its just funny.
Guess what, penalty for Argentina. :lol:
Is Argentina missing a Pessi or Penaldo? :D
Albeit the Albiceleste will prevail, I'm sure.
That was a poor penalty.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:22:11 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:21:03 AMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:19:34 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 11:18:29 AMThe Messi(ah) has not said his last word, calm down. :D
I know, and argentina will probably win, its just funny.
Guess what, penalty for Argentina. :lol:
Infantino doesn't even need calls from Argentina's president to ensure favoritism. Thats dedication :P
:secret:
Letexier is not exactly famous for going against the flow in the Ligue des Tas Lents.
:D
Quote from: Norgy on July 07, 2026, 11:24:59 AMThat was a poor penalty.
2nd missed. What's the record for missed penalties (not on a shoot out)? I don't know why they keep giving him penalties. For all his strengths, he has many, penalties are not one of them.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:16:26 AMAhahahah the power of Ra
It could be a very confusing final with some fans chatting Ro and other others chanting Ra
I would not mind it. :uffda:
I'd like to state for the record that I prefer 1998 World Cup song for Norway, translated as "we're just peasants from the north, please welcome us" to the song with the line "We can buy all of Sweden if we want" (unofficial tune) this year. :Embarrass:
That's not so bad. It's the second verse of the song that goes, but why would we want to that is particularly irksome.
What a run
Here's a free yellow card to celebrate the second goal for Egypt. :lol:
VAR so goal cancelled.
VAR?
fuck FIFA and fuck infantino
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:24:27 PMVAR?
fuck FIFA and fuck infantino
I told you Letexier in the Ligue des Tas Lents has quite the reputation.
This is how you do corruption, newbies. Does the Egyptian dude still get a yellow for celebrating a no-goal?
Seems he did not get it, as a consolation prize.
Let's see how they overturn this one.
VAR again? Just in case.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:31:24 PMLet's see how they overturn this one.
Trump or Gianni? :P
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:32:27 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:31:24 PMLet's see how they overturn this one.
Trump or Gianni? :P
Trump has no skin this time lol.
Still time for a few reds and some penalties :ph34r:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:33:51 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:32:27 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:31:24 PMLet's see how they overturn this one.
Trump or Gianni? :P
Trump has no skin this time lol.
Still time for a few reds and some penalties :ph34r:
:secret:
What about his buddy Milei? ;)
Goal stands.
What's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:45:18 PMWhat's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
15 minutes, so far in this tournament. :) :D
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:46:18 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:45:18 PMWhat's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
15 minutes, so far in this tournament. :) :D
Records are meant to be broken lol
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:47:05 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:46:18 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:45:18 PMWhat's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
15 minutes, so far in this tournament. :) :D
Records are meant to be broken lol
Won't be needed.
Argentina 2 Egypt 2
How many times have African teams gone out after leading up to the 80th minute?
More seriously, Egypt are cornered so I don't see Argentina not winning.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:47:05 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:46:18 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:45:18 PMWhat's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
15 minutes, so far in this tournament. :) :D
Records are meant to be broken lol
"Only" 7 minutes. May be enough for the Albiceleste to avoid overtime.
Was Sepp Blatter right about VAR all along? Are we better off with occasional bad calls than this?
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:55:12 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:47:05 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 12:46:18 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 12:45:18 PMWhat's the max extra time a ref can give a team? :P
15 minutes, so far in this tournament. :) :D
Records are meant to be broken lol
"Only" 7 minutes. May be enough for the Albiceleste to avoid overtime.
3-2 for Argentina.
Maybe I should reconsider my objections to betting on football games. :P
Hassan went off too, which isn't the best for them.
Didn't think Egypt would actually win at the beginning of the match, even after the first goal, but to go out this way was bullshit.
Egypt wuz robbed
lol people are now calling them Vargentina
Yellow card for the Egyptian coach who is pissed off for some reason.
https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49159091/lionel-messi-gets-new-85-foot-statue-even-taller-torn-india-sculpture
Terrible. Almost as terrible as this, ehm, "work of art".
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 11:16:14 AMBelgium doing the Trump dance in their dressing room is almost worth America embarrassing themselves on the field and off lol
Looking forward to Columbia v Switzerland (aka Charlie v the Chocolate Factory)
Quote from: Gups on July 07, 2026, 01:58:28 PMLooking forward to Columbia v Switzerland (aka Charlie v the Chocolate Factory)
:lol:
Quote from: DGuller on July 07, 2026, 12:55:50 PMWas Sepp Blatter right about VAR all along? Are we better off with occasional bad calls than this?
Yes. But it's only because FIFA can't implement anything the right way. VAR could be great & help but soccer is a sport that is dumbly officiated so that will never work.
Jokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
I don't think so, but I will certainly defer to the people here who are much more knowledgeable.
Last game aside not as much as 2022. Then again they faced harder teams in 2022.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 02:29:57 PMJokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
I'm not convinced that a VAR would always rewind that far back for every goal looking for fouls. There is still this transparency problem with VAR: you know what they looked at when they have something to show a referee for the ceremonial approval of their decision, but you don't know what they looked at or chose to not look at when they don't call the referee over. Selective enforcement is insidious that way: you can't dispute the decisions, since they're always correct by the letter of the rules, but you have no way of disputing non-decisions or even evaluating their consistency.
The disallowed goal was pretty harsh.
Argentina has been lucky with some VAR decisions, like the disallowed goal today.
Whether this is intentional is hard to prove, but seeing as FIFA operates with a desire to have a product to sell, it would be better to keep the big player names in the competition still than send them home. This is still just speculation, and the fact that Brazil did not get a third penalty for some reason against Norway to save Neymar is an argument against.
I think there is data to support claims that "big" teams in leagues around Europe get more favourable refereeing, although not to the extent that myths like "Fergie time" would have you believe.
Refereeing will always be debated, and unfortunately I would not say the standard in the World Cup has been worse or better than in the EPL, for instance. The Norwegian referee was rather horrible, though.
The problem seems to me that as DGuller said, you can selectively use VAR to disallow anything, but also that Argentina seems to be getting those calls every single game in 2022 and again in 2026.
Just the amount of penalties awarded should raise eyebrows no?
Also probably doesn't help the impression when infantino is in the stands crying when Messi misses a penalty :lol:
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 02:29:57 PMJokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
Two wrongs don't make a right, but Messi made a red card-worthy foul against Algeria in the first game.
Would not have happened were the situation reversed.
Yet Argentina was clearly superior.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 03:03:56 PMJust the amount of penalties awarded should raise eyebrows no?
Although I think that was one of those things where the pre-tournament briefing of refs said they were going to crack down on certain things (I think basically any touching of a keeper in the penalty box - like the rest of us they were traumatised by Arsenal). The press and national teams are explicitly told what refs are looking out for/if they've decided to be strict about a specific rule.
But yeah I think we weren't even halfway through the group stages and had more penalties than in the entire previous world cup.
Fox commentators talking about players having signature moments in this World Cup. The camera then pans to Infantino, and they go "we've seen a signature moment from this man". :XD:
We were talking about the decline of Brazil over rhe last 20 to 30 years, but have goalies gotten significantly better over the same time frame? Or is that just my selective memory? I mean we've always had a stand out or two, but now it just seems every goalie is better. Except for Zidanes kid :D
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 03:07:24 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 02:29:57 PMJokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
Two wrongs don't make a right, but Messi made a red card-worthy foul against Algeria in the first game.
Would not have happened were the situation reversed.
Yet Argentina was clearly superior.
Argentina was not clearly superior to Cap Vert, and were not clearly superior to Egypt today, yet they keep being given these extra margins. I don't get it.
It's not like Messi is the one dude keeping the popularity of football alive lol. It was the biggest sport in the world before he was even born.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 03:07:24 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 02:29:57 PMJokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
Two wrongs don't make a right, but Messi made a red card-worthy foul against Algeria in the first game.
Would not have happened were the situation reversed.
Yet Argentina was clearly superior.
Easier to be better if the ref has your opponent in a headlock :lol:
Messi is great as always, but Argentina's midfield is Swiss cheese. I mean no offense to cabo verde or Egypt but they're not exactly offensive powerhouses and they found ways through multiple times.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 03:18:56 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 03:07:24 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 02:29:57 PMJokes aside, does anyone think that Argentina is being favoured by the refs/VAR? And if so, why?
Two wrongs don't make a right, but Messi made a red card-worthy foul against Algeria in the first game.
Would not have happened were the situation reversed.
Yet Argentina was clearly superior.
Argentina was not clearly superior to Cap Vert, and were not clearly superior to Egypt today, yet they keep being given these extra margins. I don't get it.
It's not like Messi is the one dude keeping the popularity of football alive lol. It was the biggest sport in the world before he was even born.
I meant compared to Algeria, past the first 10 minutes.
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 03:17:59 PMWe were talking about the decline of Brazil over rhe last 20 to 30 years, but have goalies gotten significantly better over the same time frame? Or is that just my selective memory? I mean we've always had a stand out or two, but now it just seems every goalie is better. Except for Zidanes kid :D
Love the (correct) theory that Brazil's decline is because most of their players are now evangelical Protestants not Catholic :lol:
I agree though I think keepers are better and asked to do more too.
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on July 07, 2026, 04:56:02 AMThank God they don't play cricket.
Some of them think they do. But it's just not cricket.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 07, 2026, 03:21:21 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 03:17:59 PMWe were talking about the decline of Brazil over rhe last 20 to 30 years, but have goalies gotten significantly better over the same time frame? Or is that just my selective memory? I mean we've always had a stand out or two, but now it just seems every goalie is better. Except for Zidanes kid :D
Love the (correct) theory that Brazil's decline is because most of their players are now evangelical Protestants not Catholic :lol:
I agree though I think keepers are better and asked to do more too.
Protestants ruin everything!
Bring back the poor slum catholics. Bring back the samba!
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 07, 2026, 02:32:32 PMI don't think so, but I will certainly defer to the people here who are much more knowledgeable.
Tbf, Argentina doesn't have much pull with FIFA nowadays. Doesn't mean the ref wasn't biased, but I don't think there's much of a conspiracy.
Argentina are pretty mediocre, surprised they got this far although they got a very nice bracket.
Impressed by how the Swiss have been playing this tournament. I think this is the blueprint South American teams like Paraguay need to emulate if they want to improve instead of being cheating asshole actors.
I always forget the Swiss have a good team because it makes no sense to me :lol:
They're very solid and organized without any superstars. Very few mistakes.
On the subject of penalties, I just read Messi got 8 penalties in his last 11 WC games lol.
The had a record 5 penalties last world cup.
2 so far this year, but still more games to come.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 07, 2026, 03:21:21 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 03:17:59 PMWe were talking about the decline of Brazil over rhe last 20 to 30 years, but have goalies gotten significantly better over the same time frame? Or is that just my selective memory? I mean we've always had a stand out or two, but now it just seems every goalie is better. Except for Zidanes kid :D
Love the (correct) theory that Brazil's decline is because most of their players are now evangelical Protestants not Catholic :lol:
Interested by this theory. :)
Any links?
(https://preview.redd.it/t9adabtxgubh1.jpeg?width=768&auto=webp&s=012364a047cc18e55d429d79e2360f8900d098d0)
:lol:
Brazil have been a European styles team for at least 30 years. Better coaching, nutrition, fitness. Like most things in football perspiration is more important than inspiration in the long room, even if the latter makes for better stories.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 04:04:05 PM(https://preview.redd.it/t9adabtxgubh1.jpeg?width=768&auto=webp&s=012364a047cc18e55d429d79e2360f8900d098d0)
:lol:
Not even trying to hide it this year :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 04:16:52 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 04:04:05 PM(https://preview.redd.it/t9adabtxgubh1.jpeg?width=768&auto=webp&s=012364a047cc18e55d429d79e2360f8900d098d0)
:lol:
Not even trying to hide it this year :lol:
Are you insinuating they tried to hide it in 2022? :D
I mean you can be incompetent at hiding it like 2022 and not even bothering to hide it like 2026 :D
I think Trump taught us that trying to hide corruption is taking valuable energy away from the acts of corruption. I'm sure he and Infantino are not just talking about world peace and soccer when they chat.
I'm quite enjoying the Mexican 4th official in the SWI-COL game :ph34r: (Katia Itzel García)
Surprised they're showing her and not cutting away to some random celeb or fifa official no one knows like they do whe they accidently pan to a woman in the stands :D
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:08:24 PMSurprised they're showing her and not cutting away to some random celeb or fifa official no one knows like they do whe they accidently pan to a woman in the stands :D
I hated it and now absolutely love this in this World Cup. They keep cutting to American sports celebrities and there's just awkward silence - totally dead air - because the commentators have no idea who it is, then ten seconds later when the camera's back on the pitch someone's clearly given them a note and they'll say "that was x, from the NFL, here to watch the game".
Annoyed me to start with, but now just quite funny.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 04:53:51 PMI'm quite enjoying the Mexican 4th official in the SWI-COL game :ph34r: (Katia Itzel García)
Come on, it's 2026, do we really need to objectify... oh, you're talking about her. Yeah, I noticed her as well. :blush:
Quote from: DGuller on July 07, 2026, 05:19:54 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 04:53:51 PMI'm quite enjoying the Mexican 4th official in the SWI-COL game :ph34r: (Katia Itzel García)
Come on, it's 2026, do we really need to objectify... oh, you're talking about her. Yeah, I noticed her as well. :blush:
Pics or it did not happen!
He is going to see that miss in his nightmares for years
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 07, 2026, 05:22:58 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 07, 2026, 05:19:54 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 07, 2026, 04:53:51 PMI'm quite enjoying the Mexican 4th official in the SWI-COL game :ph34r: (Katia Itzel García)
Come on, it's 2026, do we really need to objectify... oh, you're talking about her. Yeah, I noticed her as well. :blush:
Pics or it did not happen!
She's teeny
:lol:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DagFdQ3geU_
Said it before, but I hate penalties. Should just keep playing 15 minute increments until someone wins.
Yeah, hard way to lose
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 07, 2026, 05:51:51 PMYeah, hard way to lose
That plus it keeps teams from going full turtle.
HVC, I think you will like this one
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DagHHVlKc1s/?igsh=MWhhZ3FnODNyMDZhcw==
Haha yeah I've seen that one. My instagram stories are all now hating on Argentina. The algorithm is good at showing people what they want, I'll give them that :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 07, 2026, 05:13:31 PMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:08:24 PMSurprised they're showing her and not cutting away to some random celeb or fifa official no one knows like they do whe they accidently pan to a woman in the stands :D
I hated it and now absolutely love this in this World Cup. They keep cutting to American sports celebrities and there's just awkward silence - totally dead air - because the commentators have no idea who it is, then ten seconds later when the camera's back on the pitch someone's clearly given them a note and they'll say "that was x, from the NFL, here to watch the game".
Annoyed me to start with, but now just quite funny.
What happened to cutting away to cute girl fans? That was the staunchest of WC traditions :(
I'm all in favor to cutting away to handsome dudes for inclusivity, but we're going for the lowest common denominator
I think the camera's been panning towards emotional children rather often rather than the unknown beauties. :cry:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:58:18 PMHaha yeah I've seen that one. My instagram stories are all now hating on Argentina. The algorithm is good at showing people what they want, I'll give them that :lol:
Is your Instagram French or what? :D
I know it's because they get really into it - but I do find the producers instinct to find a kid in tears a bit weird.
(Although did love the Colombian fans comforting the Uzbek kid and starting up an "Uzbekistan" chant.)
There are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
Quote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:48:53 PMSaid it before, but I hate penalties. Should just keep playing 15 minute increments until someone wins.
It is kind of like if after an overtime basketball games were then decided by a game of HORSE.
But one of the beauties of soccer is that we know the game is going to be less than 2 hours so I guess it is good they just won't go all day.
Quote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
Very unsuccessful conspiracy. :lol:
Quote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
Even at their best play I don't think they could beat Belgium. And they definitely weren't at their best from what I saw. Despite Sheilbh's enthusiasm US still has a ways to go. But they were getting more exciting and better every tournament Shame Trump had to taint them.
As for Portugal, you can have different views on the Croatia goal but if FIFA wanted them to win there were some jersey tugs in the Spanish box :P
Quote from: Valmy on July 08, 2026, 06:53:02 AMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:48:53 PMSaid it before, but I hate penalties. Should just keep playing 15 minute increments until someone wins.
It is kind of like if after an overtime basketball games were then decided by a game of HORSE.
:lmfao:
Quote from: Valmy on July 08, 2026, 06:53:02 AMQuote from: HVC on July 07, 2026, 05:48:53 PMSaid it before, but I hate penalties. Should just keep playing 15 minute increments until someone wins.
It is kind of like if after an overtime basketball games were then decided by a game of HORSE.
But one of the beauties of soccer is that we know the game is going to be less than 2 hours so I guess it is good they just won't go all day.
Long, vorsicht!
Nostalgic of games decided by a coin toss?
https://soccerfancentral.com/the-absurd-history-of-world-cup-matches-decided-by-coin-toss/ (https://soccerfancentral.com/the-absurd-history-of-world-cup-matches-decided-by-coin-toss/)
QuoteThe Absurd History of World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
June 3, 2025 by
Imagine the biggest soccer tournament in the world, the World Cup, and a crucial match comes down to a coin flip. Sounds crazy, right? Well, it actually happened. For a while, World Cup matches decided by coin toss were a real thing, a weird part of the tournament's past. It's a reminder of how much the rules have changed over time, moving from simple luck to more skill-based ways of breaking ties.
Key Takeaways
Coin tosses were once used to decide outcomes in the World Cup, especially when teams were tied after all other rules failed.
This method was seen as unfair and anticlimactic by fans and players, leading to calls for better solutions.
The 1990 World Cup saw a notable instance where Ireland and the Netherlands had their group standings decided by a coin toss.
FIFA eventually changed its rules, moving away from coin tosses to more sporting tie-breakers like goal difference, head-to-head records, and eventually, penalty shootouts.
The shift to penalty shootouts marked a major change, making sure that skill and performance on the field, not just luck, decided who moved on in the tournament.
The Absurdity of Coin Toss Deciders
group of people in white and black shirts
When World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
Imagine this: years of training, grueling qualifying matches, and the hopes of a nation all coming down to... a coin flip. It sounds like something out of a movie, but it was a reality in the early days of the World Cup. Back then, if teams were tied on points and goal difference, a coin toss was sometimes used to decide who advanced. Can you believe it? All that effort, all that passion, decided by chance. It's almost too ridiculous to be true. It's hard to imagine hat-tricks in major tournaments being overshadowed by something so arbitrary.
The Anti-Climactic Nature of Coin Tosses
There's nothing quite like the tension of a penalty shootout, the roar of the crowd, the agonizing wait as a player steps up to the spot. Now, compare that to a coin toss. A referee flips a coin, someone calls heads or tails, and... that's it. No skill, no strategy, just pure luck. It's an incredibly anti-climactic way to end a hard-fought match.
It feels like a deflated balloon. All that build-up, all that anticipation, and then it's over in a matter of seconds, decided by something completely unrelated to the game itself.
From Coin Tosses to Penalty Kicks
Thankfully, those days are long gone. FIFA realized that deciding World Cup matches with coin tosses wasn't exactly fair or exciting. So, they started experimenting with other tie-breaking methods. First came goal difference, then head-to-head records, and eventually, the glorious penalty shootout. Here's a quick look at the evolution:
Coin Toss (early years)
Goal Difference
Head-to-Head Record
Penalty Shootouts (modern era)
Penalty kicks brought drama and a sense of resolution, even in defeat. It's a far cry from the days when a simple coin could determine a team's fate.
Notable World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
The 1990 World Cup Group F Coin Toss
The 1990 World Cup saw a particularly memorable instance of a coin toss deciding the fate of teams in Group F. Ireland and the Netherlands were deadlocked on points and goal difference, leading to the need for a tie-breaker. This coin toss determined their final group standings. It wasn't to decide who advanced, but rather their placement in the group, which had implications for their subsequent opponents. It's wild to think that something so important came down to such a simple chance event. The 1930 World Cup also had some interesting tie-breaking procedures.
Ireland's Fortunate Coin Toss Victory
Ireland emerged victorious from the coin toss, securing second place in Group F. This seemingly small victory had a significant impact on their path in the tournament. Winning the coin toss meant they avoided a potentially tougher opponent in the next round. It's one of those moments that adds to the folklore of the World Cup, a reminder that luck can play a role alongside skill and strategy. It's hard to imagine the stress the players and coaches must have felt during that moment.
The Netherlands' Coin Toss Fate
For the Netherlands, losing the coin toss meant finishing third in the group. This altered their trajectory in the knockout stages, potentially leading to a more difficult path. It's a harsh reminder of how arbitrary the coin toss method was. Imagine training for years, only to have your fate decided by a flip of a coin. It highlights the need for fairer, more sporting ways to resolve ties, which thankfully, we have now.
The Evolution of World Cup Tie-Breaking Rules
FIFA's Shifting Regulations for World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
Early World Cups had pretty simple rules, and when teams were tied, things got, well, interesting. FIFA's regulations for breaking ties have changed quite a bit over the years. Initially, if teams were level on points, a coin toss was sometimes the only way to decide who advanced. Can you imagine? It wasn't exactly the most sporting way to settle things, but it was quick and easy. Over time, FIFA realized this wasn't ideal and started introducing more sophisticated methods. These changes aimed to make the process fairer and more reflective of a team's performance on the field. It's a journey from pure chance to something a bit more calculated. You can see the FIFA rules evolve over time.
Beyond the Coin Toss: Goal Difference and Head-to-Head
As the World Cup grew, so did the need for better tie-breaking methods. Goal difference became a key factor, rewarding teams that not only won but also scored a lot of goals. This was a step up from the coin toss, as it considered a team's overall performance throughout the group stage. Then came the introduction of head-to-head records. This meant that if two teams were tied, the result of their match against each other would be the first tie-breaker. This made sense because it directly compared the teams in question. It added another layer of fairness, ensuring that the team that beat the other had an advantage.
The Modern Era: Penalty Shootouts Reign Supreme
Today, we have penalty shootouts. Love them or hate them, they're a far cry from coin tosses. After regular time and extra time, if teams are still tied, it comes down to a test of nerve and skill from the penalty spot. It's dramatic, it's tense, and it's usually heartbreaking for one team. While some argue that penalties aren't the perfect way to decide a match, they are at least a test of skill under pressure. It's a spectacle that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. The shift to penalty shootouts marks a significant move towards a more sporting resolution, even if it's not without its critics. The modern era emphasizes sporting resolutions over chance.
The evolution of tie-breaking rules in the World Cup reflects a broader trend in sports: the pursuit of fairness and accuracy. While early methods were simple and sometimes arbitrary, modern methods prioritize on-field performance and direct competition. This shift aims to ensure that the best teams advance, even in closely contested matches.
The Chaos Caused by Coin Tosses
The Toss That Caused Chaos in World Cup History
Coin tosses, while seemingly simple, have led to some truly wild moments in World Cup history. Imagine the tension: years of training, grueling matches, and then... a coin flip decides your fate. It's almost too absurd to believe. One particular toss stands out, not for its importance, but for the sheer pandemonium it unleashed. It wasn't even during the World Cup, but it shows how a coin toss can cause chaos. The Celtic captain punched the air when he saw he had made the right call. After it was decided, it was chaos.
Unforeseen Consequences of Coin Toss Decisions
The consequences of a coin toss extend far beyond just who advances. Careers can be altered, national pride wounded, and the entire trajectory of a tournament shifted. A single flip can create heroes and villains in an instant. Think about the teams that were eliminated not because they were outplayed, but because of chance. The ripple effects are enormous. It's a harsh reminder that sometimes, luck plays a bigger role than skill. The Battle of Nuremberg is a good example of how things can get out of hand.
Player Reactions to World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
Imagine being a player, pouring your heart and soul into a match, only to have your destiny decided by a 50/50 chance. The reactions have ranged from disbelief to utter fury. Some players accepted it with a sense of resignation, understanding it was part of the game's strange history. Others, however, felt cheated, robbed of the opportunity to prove themselves on the field. It's a tough pill to swallow, knowing that all your hard work could be undone by something so arbitrary.
It's hard to imagine the frustration of players who trained for years, only to have their World Cup hopes dashed by a coin toss. The emotional toll must have been immense, knowing that their fate was sealed not by their performance, but by pure chance.
Here are some common reactions:
Disbelief and shock
Anger and frustration
Resignation and acceptance
Why Coin Tosses Were Used in World Cup Matches
The Historical Context of Coin Toss Tie-Breakers
Back in the day, figuring out ties in the World Cup wasn't as straightforward as it is now. We didn't have all the fancy tie-breaking methods we use today. In the early days of the World Cup, the rules were simpler, and sometimes, that meant resorting to methods that seem pretty wild by today's standards. It's easy to forget that the tournament has evolved a lot over the years. The coin toss was a product of its time, a quick and easy solution when other options were limited. It's a bit like looking back at old technology and wondering how we ever managed without smartphones. The controversial referee decisions were not as easily reviewed as they are today.
Simplicity Over Sporting Merit
The coin toss was undeniably simple. It didn't require complex calculations or additional matches. When teams were deadlocked after all other considerations, a coin flip offered a definitive, albeit random, resolution. This simplicity was appealing, especially when travel and scheduling constraints were significant factors. It was a way to avoid further physical exertion on players who had already competed intensely. It prioritized administrative ease over the sporting merit of determining a winner through skill or strategy. It's kind of like choosing the fastest route on a map, even if it's not the most scenic or satisfying.
The Lack of Alternatives in Early World Cups
In the early days, the options for breaking ties were pretty limited. Goal difference wasn't always a factor, and the idea of penalty shootouts hadn't yet been introduced. So, when teams were level on points and goal average, officials had to find a way to separate them.
The coin toss filled a void. It was a pragmatic solution in the absence of more sophisticated methods. It wasn't ideal, but it was a way to move the tournament forward and avoid prolonged uncertainty. It's a reminder of how much the game has changed and how far we've come in terms of fairness and sporting integrity.
Here's a quick look at how tie-breakers evolved:
Early Days: Coin Toss
Mid-Era: Goal Difference Introduced
Modern Era: Penalty Shootouts
The Public's Reaction to Coin Toss Decisions
Fan Disappointment with World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
Fans generally hated the idea of a coin toss deciding a World Cup match. It felt like a huge letdown after investing so much emotionally in the games. Imagine watching your team battle it out, only to have their fate determined by a flip of a coin. It just didn't sit right with most people who felt it undermined the sporting spirit of the competition. It felt arbitrary and unfair, especially when compared to methods that actually involved skill and teamwork.
It's hard to accept that something as important as World Cup qualification could come down to chance. Fans want to see their team win or lose based on their performance on the field, not on a 50/50 gamble.
Media Scrutiny of Coin Toss Outcomes
The media didn't hold back when coin tosses decided World Cup matches. News outlets and sports commentators were quick to point out the absurdity of it all. They highlighted the lack of sporting merit and questioned FIFA's reliance on such a random method. The media coverage often amplified the fans' disappointment, creating a narrative of injustice and highlighting the need for a better system. The media also gave a platform to players and coaches to express their frustration, further fueling the debate. It wasn't uncommon to see headlines questioning the integrity of the tournament when a coin toss played a significant role. The media scrutiny definitely added pressure on FIFA to find a more suitable solution.
Calls for More Sporting Resolutions
There was a widespread demand for more sporting ways to break ties. People suggested various alternatives, like goal difference, head-to-head records, or even extra time. The general consensus was that any method that involved actual gameplay was preferable to a coin toss. Here are some of the common suggestions:
Implementing a goal difference system.
Using head-to-head results as a tie-breaker.
Playing extra time until a goal is scored (golden goal).
Many argued that these options would be fairer and more exciting for both players and fans. Some fans even suggested penalty shootouts, which, while nerve-wracking, were still seen as a better way to decide a match than a simple coin flip. The call for change was loud and clear, pushing FIFA to reconsider its tie-breaking rules and eventually adopt more sporting resolutions like penalty kicks. Some people even suggested open penalty shootouts, and charging fans to watch, as a way to make more money.
The Legacy of World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
A Quirky Chapter in World Cup History
Okay, so, coin tosses deciding World Cup matches? It sounds like something out of a movie, right? But it actually happened, and it's a pretty weird part of World Cup history. It's like finding out your grandpa used to settle arguments with a duel – unexpected and a little bit funny. These coin toss decisions are a reminder of a time when things were, well, a lot less scientific. Can you imagine the stress? All that training, all that effort, and it comes down to a flip of a coin? Crazy.
Lessons Learned from Coin Toss Controversies
So, what did we learn from all this coin toss madness? Well, for starters, that pure luck isn't the best way to decide who advances in a major sporting event. I mean, duh, right? But it took some pretty big upsets and a whole lot of angry fans to really drive that point home. It highlighted the need for more robust and fair tie-breaking systems. It pushed FIFA to rethink its regulations and prioritize actual on-field performance.
The End of an Era for World Cup Matches Decided by Coin Toss
Thank goodness those days are over. Can you imagine if the current cricket rules still included coin tosses? The move to goal difference, head-to-head records, and eventually penalty shootouts was a huge step forward. It's all about giving teams a chance to actually earn their spot. The coin toss era is a funny story to tell, but I think we can all agree that it's best left in the past. It's a reminder that even the biggest sporting events can have some pretty strange beginnings.
It's wild to think that something as random as a coin flip could determine a team's fate in the World Cup. It really underscores how much the sport has evolved in its pursuit of fairness and sporting merit.
Conclusion
So, we've taken a look back at those wild times when a simple coin toss could decide a World Cup match. It's pretty weird to think about, right? Like, all that training, all that effort, and then it just comes down to heads or tails. Luckily, those days are pretty much gone. Now we have penalty shootouts, which, while super stressful, at least involve some actual soccer. It just goes to show how much things change, even in something as big as the World Cup. It's a good thing, too, because nobody wants to see a team go home because of a coin.
Quote from: HVC on July 08, 2026, 07:10:26 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
Even at their best play I don't think they could beat Belgium. And they definitely weren't at their best from what I saw. Despite Sheilbh's enthusiasm US still has a ways to go. But they were getting more exciting and better every tournament Shame Trump had to taint them.
As for Portugal, you can have different views on the Croatia goal but if FIFA wanted them to win there were some jersey tugs in the Spanish box :P
I think there it's less the Croatia goal and more Cristianos earlier suspension being removed.
Quote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 08:22:59 AMQuote from: HVC on July 08, 2026, 07:10:26 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
Even at their best play I don't think they could beat Belgium. And they definitely weren't at their best from what I saw. Despite Sheilbh's enthusiasm US still has a ways to go. But they were getting more exciting and better every tournament Shame Trump had to taint them.
As for Portugal, you can have different views on the Croatia goal but if FIFA wanted them to win there were some jersey tugs in the Spanish box :P
I think there it's less the Croatia goal and more Cristianos earlier suspension being removed.
Wrong example. Cristiano suspended for long would have helped the Selecção. :D
Quote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
After clicking on the link, HVC gave us I have been getting a bunch of Instagram clips, which are convincing me at HVC is right. Argentina only wins because FIFA rigs it. Everyone on Instagram is saying it so it must be true. :D
Viewing figures for Mexico-England with 8 million watching it live - apparently a record for a TV broadcast at 2am :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 08, 2026, 01:22:46 PMViewing figures for Mexico-England with 8 million watching it live - apparently a record for a TV broadcast at 2am :lol:
A lot of people called in sick on Monday I guess :lol:
Yeah Jude Bellingham was asked if he had a message for the people at home in his post-match interview and said "have another shot and tell your boss you're not coming in" :lol:
My work had a everyone wfh policy.
(help my economy is dying)
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 08, 2026, 09:51:18 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
After clicking on the link, HVC gave us I have been getting a bunch of Instagram clips, which are convincing me at HVC is right. Argentina only wins because FIFA rigs it. Everyone on Instagram is saying it so it must be true. :D
Not only because FIFA, but they lend a helping hand. Think of it as FIFA continuing maradona's legacy :lol:
(https://i.ibb.co/Q7ZZr5qd/image.png)
Wonder how the numbers would change in Europe based on broadcast hours.
Quote from: HVC on July 08, 2026, 07:58:34 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 08, 2026, 09:51:18 AMQuote from: Josquius on July 08, 2026, 06:42:30 AMThere are indeed quite a lot of conspiracies flying around about trying to make sure Ronaldo, Messi and the US stay in as long as possible :ph34r:
After clicking on the link, HVC gave us I have been getting a bunch of Instagram clips, which are convincing me at HVC is right. Argentina only wins because FIFA rigs it. Everyone on Instagram is saying it so it must be true. :D
Not only because FIFA, but they lend a helping hand. Think of it as FIFA continuing maradona's legacy :lol:
Further to this instagram fervently wants me to know that Mac Allister covered his mouth while yelling at the Egyptian staff and should be suspended as per the new established rules.
Not related to that but I've seen a fair bit of comment that the Egyptian coach tried to initiate the anti-racism protocol because of something and the ref didn't stop the game which I think is what's supposed to happen.
and gave him a yellow card IIRC
English defender Jarell Quansah got two match ban for his red card - people joking that Starmer phoned up Infantino and they doubled it :lol:
:D
Here's where binface should come to the rescue.
FIFA thought they were making it too obvious so give the assistant VAR position to a Uruguay ref :P
I'm guessing Mbappe thought it was a soft penalty, and decided to just tap the ball back to the goalie.
Quote from: DGuller on July 09, 2026, 03:32:51 PMI'm guessing Mbappe thought it was a soft penalty, and decided to just tap the ball back to the goalie.
Waiting there for a minute didn't help.
Quote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 03:33:35 PMQuote from: DGuller on July 09, 2026, 03:32:51 PMI'm guessing Mbappe thought it was a soft penalty, and decided to just tap the ball back to the goalie.
Waiting there for a minute didn't help.
I wonder if they go back to the start of the attack when checking for penalties. As we saw with Egypt, they'll disallow the goal if the attack started with a foul a minute ago. Do they disallow a penalty if the attack starts with a foul?
Depends who's playing :lol:
Quote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 03:36:52 PMDepends who's playing :lol:
Damn, HVC beat me to it! :D
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 09, 2026, 03:38:00 PMQuote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 03:36:52 PMDepends who's playing :lol:
Damn, HVC beat me to it! :D
:yeah:
Although to be fair refs been better than I thought. Not great, but it is what it is. Even the weird VAR pause for the penalty wasn't his fault.
Feel very old man shouting at clouds but as well as modern stutter penalties, I hate short corners :(
Stutter penalties suck, but haven't short corners always been a thing?
Quote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 04:23:35 PMStutter penalties suck, but haven't short corners always been a thing?
At least from the 50´s.
1-0 for les Bleus by Kyky obviously.
I don't get stutter penalties, they seem to work poorly based on the sample I've seen. Do people do stutter penalties because goalkeepers have gotten too good at defending against full bore penalties?
In theory it gives you a chance to see if the goalie shows a tell.
My recommendation is that if a player can stutter than a goalie should be able to leave the line after the first stutter.
Quote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 04:23:35 PMStutter penalties suck, but haven't short corners always been a thing?
This might be why Mourinho said England was the first place he'd worked where the crowd cheers a corner :lol: :ph34r:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 09, 2026, 04:33:07 PMQuote from: HVC on July 09, 2026, 04:23:35 PMStutter penalties suck, but haven't short corners always been a thing?
This might be why Mourinho said England was the first place he'd worked where the crowd cheers a corner :lol: :ph34r:
Which is odd because in my memory team england always sucked at corners. I mean your purpose bred giraffe couldn't even make use of them :lol:
Please treat Peter Crouch with respect :P
(Always had a soft spot for him for when he was asked what he'd be if he wasn't a footballer and replied "a virgin" :lol:)
He is (was?) A pretty good commentator.
He's a decent pundit - but also just seems quite nice and funny so has built up a really solid media career.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 09, 2026, 04:42:45 PMHe's a decent pundit - but also just seems quite nice and funny so has built up a really solid media career.
For english pundits i prefer roy Keene. His anger amuses me. And I know somehow he felt me calling him english deep down in his soul :P
Calling a Corkman English! :o
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 09, 2026, 04:48:08 PMCalling a Corkman English! :o
I think he'd appreciate the bravado... right? :unsure: :lol:
As for the game, France did well but it was a pretty boring showing by both sides
I (sorta) feel for France's opponents. They try to turtle like Paraguay or Morocco because they don't want to open up the game due to our offensive players. Even then, it could have been 5 or 6 nil today.
I'm not quite sure what the thinking is with this turtling strategy. Morocco had one shot on target the whole game and only like 4 attempts. Do they really plan to push the game to nil nil from the get go and pray for penalties?
It looked like their plan was to counter attack, but their passing failed them. When i looked at halftime the were sitting at like 78% accuracy. Once France went up 2-0 it was their turn to turtle and moroccos possession and passing rate went up (ended at 88%), but by then it was too late.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 09, 2026, 06:55:47 PMI (sorta) feel for France's opponents. They try to turtle like Paraguay or Morocco because they don't want to open up the game due to our offensive players. Even then, it could have been 5 or 6 nil today.
I'm not quite sure what the thinking is with this turtling strategy. Morocco had one shot on target the whole game and only like 4 attempts. Do they really plan to push the game to nil nil from the get go and pray for penalties?
What can anybody do against France? I don't know much about the sport, but they look like they have no weaknesses and look like they're going to score every time they start pressing into the opponents end.
It's like playing against the Chicago Bulls at the height of Jordan's ability. There's just no way to beat them.
I don't know enough about basketball to say whether the comparison makes sense.
IMO France is a great team, and the favourites, but they're still potentially beatable. It's one game. With a few lucky bounces one way and bad bounces the other, I think several of the remaining teams have a fighting chance if they face France.
Have we had a France-Argentina final before?
Quote from: mongers on July 10, 2026, 06:20:10 AMHave we had a France-Argentina final before?
... joke? :unsure:
Quote from: Jacob on July 09, 2026, 11:31:00 PMI don't know enough about basketball to say whether the comparison makes sense.
IMO France is a great team, and the favourites, but they're still potentially beatable. It's one game. With a few lucky bounces one way and bad bounces the other, I think several of the remaining teams have a fighting chance if they face France.
There are only several teams left :P And all of them have had difficulty keeping the ball out their net, while France has not been scored on in the knockout phase.
I mean even the Americans scored against Belgium. :D
It's true anything can happen in sport, but beating France in this tournament is going to take heroics. That's why I'm picking Norway as the underdog. They seem to be the team most likely to rise to the challenge. But if Norway pulls it off, it won't be because they had a fighting chance going in. It will be a victory for the ages.
Quote from: Jacob on July 09, 2026, 11:31:00 PMI don't know enough about basketball to say whether the comparison makes sense.
IMO France is a great team, and the favourites, but they're still potentially beatable. It's one game. With a few lucky bounces one way and bad bounces the other, I think several of the remaining teams have a fighting chance if they face France.
Yeah I agree. I think Morocco will regret playing quite so conservatively but I get why. I think in 2030 as joint hosts Morocco are a real contender though.
My comparison would be the Brazil team of the late 90s/2000s when they basically had a very good player in every position and 2-3 of the world's best forward players. Although obviously a team that beat them was France.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 10, 2026, 06:34:31 AMQuote from: Jacob on July 09, 2026, 11:31:00 PMI don't know enough about basketball to say whether the comparison makes sense.
IMO France is a great team, and the favourites, but they're still potentially beatable. It's one game. With a few lucky bounces one way and bad bounces the other, I think several of the remaining teams have a fighting chance if they face France.
Yeah I agree. I think Morocco will regret playing quite so conservatively but I get why. I think in 2030 as joint hosts Morocco are a real contender though.
My comparison would be the Brazil team of the late 90s/2000s when they basically had a very good player in every position and 2-3 of the world's best forward players. Although obviously a team that beat them was France.
So not a great comparison, France had very good players in every position that year too
France is a great team, and while we joke about Argentina's easy ride France had a super easy group too (played against bench warmer Norwegians :D ), and needed a penalty against Paraguay. Didn't see that game so the score line may not have reflected reality. They did well against morocco, but at the same token morroco didn't play well either.
Still my fav to win, but they'd serve themselves very poorly to be over confident.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 10, 2026, 06:27:52 AMQuote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 06:22:10 AMQuote from: mongers on July 10, 2026, 06:20:10 AMHave we had a France-Argentina final before?
... joke? :unsure:
:secret:
English humour.
Thanks Duque, but it's not sophisticated, question was just born out of sheer ignorance on my part. :blush:
edit:
OK I search and turns out it was the last WC final, just show how little effect these things have on me.
Quote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 06:37:05 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 10, 2026, 06:27:52 AMQuote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 06:22:10 AMQuote from: mongers on July 10, 2026, 06:20:10 AMHave we had a France-Argentina final before?
... joke? :unsure:
:secret:
English humour.
I can never tell with our friend mongers haha
HVC, just assume I'm thick and/or most political, cultural and recreational things I have very little interest in. :bowler:
Quote from: mongers on July 10, 2026, 06:55:51 AMQuote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 06:37:05 AMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 10, 2026, 06:27:52 AMQuote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 06:22:10 AMQuote from: mongers on July 10, 2026, 06:20:10 AMHave we had a France-Argentina final before?
... joke? :unsure:
:secret:
English humour.
I can never tell with our friend mongers haha
HVC, just assume I'm thick and/or most political, cultural and recreational things I have very little interest in. :bowler:
:lol: fair enough
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 10, 2026, 06:35:52 AMSo not a great comparison, France had very good players in every position that year too
Sure but that doesn't mean you win everything - see this French team in 2022, the 2024 and 2020 Euros.
My point is as a team they've looked formidable for a while and look as stacked as that great Brazil team, particularly with several of the best attacking players in the world (like fenemeno Ronaldo, Ronaldinho etc). That's the last team I can think of in football where there's just that level of quality especially in attack.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 10, 2026, 07:03:39 AMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 10, 2026, 06:35:52 AMSo not a great comparison, France had very good players in every position that year too
Sure but that doesn't mean you win everything - see this French team in 2022, the 2024 and 2020 Euros.
My point is as a team they've looked formidable for a while and look as stacked as that great Brazil team, particularly with several of the best attacking players in the world (like fenemeno Ronaldo, Ronaldinho etc). That's the last team I can think of in football where there's just that level of quality especially in attack.
You're right it doesn't mean you win everything, but it means you're very hard to beat. I don't know why you guys are pushing back so hard on the fact if anybody does beat France in this tournament, it will be a huge victory.
I just seems to be obviously true
:lol: I'm literally not pushing back on it. I know nothing about the Chicago Bulls so used a comparison from football of probably the best national team in my lifetime - that were, oddly enough, beaten by France.
You read that as pushing back or a bad comparison because France in 98 were very good too (which they were, but I think that Brazil team was special).
:)
I don't get it, why are the refs often from conflicted countries? First you had a French ref, then an Argentine ref, now an English ref? It almost seems like a policy, but why? Surely some of the eliminated countries have competent referee teams?
First time I've realized just how stunning the LA stadium is.
Quote from: Gups on July 10, 2026, 02:03:58 PMFirst time I've realized just how stunning the LA stadium is.
I saw a game there a couple years ago. It was really nice / also easy to get in and out of.
Great defensive play by the ref :D
Tough luck for belgium. Goalie went down.
Yeah, he probably would not have given the rebound away like that. Tough break for the backup
To be fair wasn't the first goal a rebound too? :D
Two games tomorrow:
England vs Norway
And
Switzerland vs The Ref
:P
Quote from: HVC on July 10, 2026, 04:01:12 PMTough luck for belgium. Goalie went down.
Yeah although the cut to Courtois after the goal went in was brutal.
I feel for Lammens - I think being a sub goalie is very tough and he's had a good season for Man United.
I would have preferred Belgium to go through (always love Lukaku) but difficult without Courtois. Probably his last World Cup too now?
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 09, 2026, 04:19:00 PMFeel very old man shouting at clouds but as well as modern stutter penalties, I hate short corners :(
For you Sheilbh :lol:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DalPw0oMagK
:lol:
I saw about the Norway fan who doesn't join in the rowing because it's historically inaccurate (Vikings sailed) and silly.
Nice to see an EUOT poster enjoying the World Cup :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 06:17:17 AM:lol:
I saw about the Norway fan who doesn't join in the rowing because it's historically inaccurate (Vikings sailed) and silly.
Nice to see an EUOT poster enjoying the World Cup :lol:
:D
Well, they did row in the shallows. Some discussions about the roots of the name Rus lead to it referring to the thwarts and that the Norse that came east were "running on the 'rus'", rus being an old word for the oars or thwarts. -_- :nerd:
I do, however, support the critical thinking behind this obstinance among segments of Norwegian fans.
There is a very strong world cup fever in Norway now, and I have some fears of how dark the mood will turn when the national team loses in the knock-out stage at some point.
My very cheeky tip is 2-1 Norway with a Haaland brace again.
I notice Norway's management now employ mind games, with "everyone is sick!" etc. We have grown up so fast. :cry:
I think it'll be quite fun - as I say not convinced by England's defence which is slightly alarming given Haaland exists. On the other hand England's attackers have been in form this tournament - with Kane and Bellingham in particular but also think Gordon's been good.
On flipside we've had reports of illnesses too :lol: And a lot of injuries plus the suspension which make that defence even shakier. Feels like it might be the first game where England players know, play with or against a good chunk of the opposing side which may add something too.
Also there's been many opportunities for replaying the best bit of commentary ever :lol: (Although I think this is the first time I've heard the bit before he gets on to Maggie and I think it's the weirdest random assortment of people imaginable - Lord Beaverbrook?! :huh:).
I suppose as a journalist, he knew of Beaverbrook. :unsure:
Norway is perhaps a bit like the Wales/Northern Ireland of yore for the English players. I mostly fear Kane and the tireless English midfield of Anderson and Bellingham. Norway survived Vini jr, I hope they can cope with Gordon.
Regarding shaky defences, Norway's weakest link is considered the defence. Ajer and Heggem have both been good, but they are not world class, anyone can see that. Ryerson is European top class, while Wolfe was relegated with Wolves.
So, two somewhat less than ideal defences against world class forwards should give us some goals.
I think if Wales very specifically the Wales of Bale and Ramsey (with, say, Ashley Williams in defence - good player but different level). Everything I've been listening to/reading has basically how do you/can you stop Haaland (and don't forget Odegaard). Basically it's a coin flip and Man City reporters saying that Haaland has been even better than they realised.
(Some) internet memes claim that Dan Burn has Haaland figured out and will shut him down easily.
Quote from: Jacob on July 11, 2026, 12:26:34 PM(Some) internet memes claim that Dan Burn has Haaland figured out and will shut him down easily.
Everyone has a plan until a six and a half foot tall berserker runs you over. Ask Ethelred :P
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 12:31:09 PMEveryone has a plan until a six and a half foot tall berserker runs you over. Ask Ethelred :P
Dan Burn is apparently also sizeable.
:lol: I think partly a joke. Heard this being mentioned on the Athletic and I am generally a believer in mark a big man with a big man.
There is a stat that I think he's played against him 10 times for Newcastle and Haaland's only scored once in those games. But then in half of those game Burn played as a fullback so...
I mean Guehi (if fit) and Stones should have Haaland worked out - but I fee like there's maybe a difference between training against someone every day and actually playing against them?
Quote from: Jacob on July 11, 2026, 12:32:42 PMQuote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 12:31:09 PMEveryone has a plan until a six and a half foot tall berserker runs you over. Ask Ethelred :P
Dan Burn is apparently also sizeable.
Yeah 6 foot 7 lad from Northumberland - mixed record against Vikings :lol:
Edit: Also loads of Dan Burn "I need a hero" memes/edits for his cameo against Mexico - which suddenly got weirdly poignant.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 12:35:06 PMQuote from: Jacob on July 11, 2026, 12:32:42 PMQuote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 12:31:09 PMEveryone has a plan until a six and a half foot tall berserker runs you over. Ask Ethelred :P
Dan Burn is apparently also sizeable.
Yeah 6 foot 7 lad from Northumberland - mixed record against Vikings :lol:
He's a turncoat! :o
He's also in his mid 30s it seems. Not ancient, but a good decade older than Haaland.
On the total I just think England has a better team, but I can't rule out Norway.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 12:33:51 PMI mean Guehi (if fit) and Stones should have Haaland worked out - but I fee like there's maybe a difference between training against someone every day and actually playing against them?
Works both ways, no? If they've trained enough to figure him out he's trained enough to figure them out.
Yeah exactly and also knowing what they're going to do and inside out from training is different than actually having to stop/get past them.
I also think all things being equal in a sport like soccer offense has the advantage . There's only so much the defense can do physically before they get a foul. So being as good as the striker isn't enough, or even knowing their play, you have to be better.
*edit* and that works the other way too, for the likes of Kane.
Yeah I think also defence needs to be a good system - and obviously you need that in attack too but it's different (maybe except for the goalie). So I think man marking him probably helps but you also need to stop the ball from getting to him in dangerous ways.
While I think a brilliant striker will just have a lot of variety and be able to make something in lots of different ways.
It is a knock out so will probably be boring (but I think the Mexico game is maybe the best I've seen this World Cup) but I am kind of hopeful given its two teams with really good attacking players and a far less certain defence. God willing, it should be fun.
It'll be interesting to see if Norway can take the record of best finish in the 21st century from Sweden. In 2018 we went out in the quarter finals against England. Three wins from taking our all-time record.
I don't know who to root for, the Norwegians are just so damn wholesome. That Haaland fellow seems like a good one.
England's outplaying Norway. :cry:
Yeah we can't see if haaland can get past the defense if the ball doesn't even get to England's defensive 3rd lol
Gordon seems to be the only one trying to do anything out there. Good for him, overall pretty boring so far though.
This seems like the most controlled/least chaotic period I've seen England play so far (almost used "quarter" and hate myself now :bleeding:). Feel like we need to move a bit more quickly to actually do something though. I feel like Norway need to add a bit of chaos and get a break or two going to knock England a bit off balance.
The wife asked me why I'm not screaming about boring game when the English play the ball around and around Spanish style.
No good answer to that one really. Perhaps the difference is that with the Spanish there's a dread that they'll actually win the whole thing.
How that is a free kick is beyond me.
Why is everyone always glazing Declan Rice? He's very ordinary.
Speaking about the devil, the Spanish would run circles around both of these teams. Seems like this side is a contest of who gets the honour of losing to France/Spain.
Quote from: Threviel on July 11, 2026, 04:29:07 PMThe wife asked me why I'm not screaming about boring game when the English play the ball around and around Spanish style.
No good answer to that one really. Perhaps the difference is that with the Spanish there's a dread that they'll actually win the whole thing.
Also Spain actually win by doing it. England end up with centre backs knocking it about and almost concede a goal :lol: :ph34r:
That style rewards Spain, punishes England.
Ro!
Oh, hell yes, what a goal!
Lol after all that the first shot on goal was norways followed by the second shot in short order, which goes in
Goal would have been reversed for Argentina :lol:
That was my first though too... What a goal though. Unstoppable.
England looks really shaken.
I think the England central defenders fear Haaland.
Those hydration breaks really change the game. Apparently it's close to 40 in Miami though, with 80% humidity, so they're needed. But why did they schedule so many games there, in July, is beyond me.
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 04:41:32 PMEngland looks really shaken.
Properly rattled. Need to calm it down a bit.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 04:44:48 PMThose hydration breaks really change the game. Apparently it's close to 40 in Miami though, with 80% humidity, so they're needed. But why did they schedule so many games there, in July, is beyond me.
I've read stats nerds saying the don't statistically but seen it in so many games and actual experienced football people like Klopp talking about it - they really change things.
I take that back, Norway can press and might have a chance against France/Spain.
Quote from: Norgy on July 11, 2026, 04:43:46 PMI think the England central defenders fear Haaland.
Maybe we should have started Burn :ph34r:
They're gonna play hey Jude again
Lovely goal.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 04:25:49 PMGordon seems to be the only one trying to do anything out there. Good for him, overall pretty boring so far though.
Game got more exciting after the 1st goal
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 04:41:32 PMEngland looks really shaken.
HVC jinxes again!
England ties, just before half-time.
In my opinion, Sørloth offers too little today. He wasted a big opportunity to pass to Haaland and generally seems too slow.
Apart from that, I think Norway is playing close to their peak.
England's attacking force is magnificent, I must say.
What another great goal by Bellingham. I take back my boring qualifier for this game.
My prediction: Norway goes to the final.
Quote from: Norgy on July 11, 2026, 04:52:59 PMIn my opinion, Sørloth offers too little today. He wasted a big opportunity to pass to Haaland and generally seems too slow.
Apart from that, I think Norway is playing close to their peak.
England's attacking force is magnificent, I must say.
I think you have to credit Stones on that defending though, your big guy had nowhere to pass.
Let's hope the brave faux-vikings can up their game and do some goals in the remaining two quarters.
Hobbits 1 Trolls 1
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 04:48:30 PMThey're gonna play hey Jude again
You can never play Hey Jude enough.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 04:44:48 PMApparently it's close to 40 in Miami though, with 80% humidity
That's the heat index. Air temp is about 32. It's a good place in general for soccer, but yeah summer in South Florida is a bitch.
Great game. I'm for Norway, but both teams are playing well.
Also, Declan Rice is a fucking traitor. :ireland:
Quote from: Norgy on July 11, 2026, 04:52:59 PMEngland's attacking force is magnificent, I must say.
Although, we can get it to him a lot but Madueke's not offered much of anything on that wing - I know there's been injury questions but I'd be tempted to bring on Saka.
Quote from: Valmy on July 11, 2026, 05:00:16 PMYou can never play Hey Jude enough.
Yeah and Hey Jude and Wonderwall this tournament are a massive step up from Sweet Caroline :bleeding:
Quote from: Baron von Schtinkenbutt on July 11, 2026, 05:04:11 PMAlso, Declan Rice is a fucking traitor. :ireland:
Him and Grealish <_<
Apparently the ball hit the wire for the camera before the England goal. Okay, we're even in terms of "luck" with the ref.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 05:05:47 PMYeah and Hey Jude and Wonderwall this tournament are a massive step up from Sweet Caroline :bleeding:
We got Wonderwall and Sweet Caroline during halftime at the pub I'm at.
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 05:05:47 PMQuote from: Valmy on July 11, 2026, 05:00:16 PMYou can never play Hey Jude enough.
Yeah and Hey Jude and Wonderwall this tournament are a massive step up from Sweet Caroline :bleeding:
At least those two aren't an ode to how much Lennon sucked that people cheerfully sing along to :lol:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 05:04:19 PMAlthough, we can get it to him a lot but Madueke's not offered much of anything on that wing - I know there's been injury questions but I'd be tempted to bring on Saka.
Seems the England skip agreed.
Ro! Ro!
That's a rather late VAR interference. :glare:
Retake
English player was just too weak
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 12:31:09 PMQuote from: Jacob on July 11, 2026, 12:26:34 PM(Some) internet memes claim that Dan Burn has Haaland figured out and will shut him down easily.
Everyone has a plan until a six and a half foot tall berserker runs you over. Ask Ethelred :P
See :lol:
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 11, 2026, 05:22:01 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 11, 2026, 05:20:32 PMEnglish player was just too weak
Embellishment ?
Perhaps. But it was a two hand shove. At the least it was an unwise move by haaland.
This fucking dumb var shit has to go. Every time I watch international games I get happy that we don't have that crap in the Swedish league.
Quote from: Threviel on July 11, 2026, 05:23:29 PMThis fucking dumb var shit has to go. Every time I watch international games I get happy that we don't have that crap in the Swedish league.
VAR should be used for offside and in the box only. Using it for all this other shit is stupid. So in this case I reluctantly think VAR was fine.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 11, 2026, 05:25:49 PMQuote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 05:23:02 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 11, 2026, 05:22:01 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 11, 2026, 05:20:32 PMEnglish player was just too weak
Embellishment ?
Perhaps. But it was a two hand shove. At the least it was an unwise move by haaland.
Plus he's not Messi. :D
That only counts if you try to cripple someone's ankle. Messi's way to small to push anyone ever... except maybe one of the ball kids :D
I think getting mad at the ref and blaming every loss on bias was part of the game before VAR and it was glorious. Now every damn decision relies on it. Kane was fouled on the Norway goal. The ball touched a wire on the England goal. Haaland fouled someone on the 2nd Norway goal. It's all VAR VAR VAR and it kills the game. IMO, of course.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 04:35:00 PMWhy is everyone always glazing Declan Rice? He's very ordinary.
I think because without him you can just play through the middle of England.
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 05:23:02 PMQuote from: Duque de Bragança on July 11, 2026, 05:22:01 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 11, 2026, 05:20:32 PMEnglish player was just too weak
Embellishment ?
Perhaps. But it was a two hand shove. At the least it was an unwise move by haaland.
Sure but they were both shoving each other with two hands. It's just the English player looked like a child pushing against a granite wall.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 05:27:04 PMI think getting mad at the ref and blaming every loss on bias was part of the game before VAR and it was glorious. Now every damn decision relies on it. Kane was fouled on the Norway goal. The ball touched a wire on the England goal. Haaland fouled someone on the 2nd Norway goal. It's all VAR VAR VAR and it kills the game. IMO, of course.
Agree I legit just prefer talking about officials missing something. I think in the World Cup it's at least generall been pretty quick. The 5-10 minute checks in the Premier League just drive me mad.
If were talking about new things we hate i hate the 15 minute extra time. Now that you're punishing time wasting (losing throw ins and goalie position) get rid of it.
VAR is generally correct, but sometimes, like the Egyptian goal or this goal it focuses on things that were not relevant to the goal. And it breaks up the flow of the game.
Sometimes the ref needs to be able to ignore the letter of the rules to allow for the spirit of the rules and var makes that very hard. It's football with Asperger's.
The thing I don't like about VAR is how nit picking it is. In real time a ref can see that push and think it not a big deal. But now the game stops and the moment is given heightened importance.
Edit Theivel said it better
There is no doubt Haaland pushed Anderson, but in so many matches these things are happening with no reaction from the referee staff.
In any case, if Norway loses, it is not because of that decision.
If the Norwegians win this it's the biggest upset since the Danes won the battle of Maldon. And the English handle this game about as good as that battle.
Has Kane touched the ball?
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 05:41:26 PMHas Kane touched the ball?
He had the offside goal and maybe one other shot from outside the box.
Our defence is so fucking brittle :ph34r:
Tuchel's substitutions have been terrible all game. England's second half is pretty terrible.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 05:54:30 PMTuchel's substitutions have been terrible all game. England's second half is pretty terrible.
I think it was Rice for Eze. No midfield without him and feels like every sub since has been trying to compensate for that.
(I think Saka has been okay :lol:)
My Spurs boy Spence almost got one there, and Saka has had a few moments I guess. You can tell Kane has been frustrated. He's got no Son or Dele to play into the space.
Looks like a lot of the players are utterly knackered.
After a pretty boring start games turned out well.
Quote from: Norgy on July 11, 2026, 06:01:53 PMLooks like a lot of the players are utterly knackered.
Welcome to South Florida. It's the Dolphins home field advantage.
Dammit, 2-1 for England.
Tough.
If we sit back for the next 25 minutes I'll have a stroke and I think we'll probably concede. We cannot knock it about the back.
That's a bullshit penalty
Heroic effort by Norway whatever happens.
No penalty. Thank you for small mercies. Fucking cheating traitor Spence.
... or not
Right call
A bit conflicted about that penalty call. It's really 50-50 no.
Another great English dive.
Quote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 06:20:08 PMA bit conflicted about that penalty call. It's really 50-50 no.
thats just your spurs loyalty talking :D
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 06:19:44 PMRight call
Yeah. I hate extra time (although hate penalties more).
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 06:21:02 PMQuote from: Zoupa on July 11, 2026, 06:20:08 PMA bit conflicted about that penalty call. It's really 50-50 no.
thats just your spurs loyalty talking :D
:blush: It was a great run from Spence though.
It looks like Norway got cooked first. They were really pressing England in the second half, and then seemed to run out of gas suddenly 10 minutes before end of regular time.
The penalty absolutely wasn't a dive.
Though he did clearly put himself right in front of where the Norwegian was going to force the push.
Iffy where things stand there.
Haaland off? Tiny defenders couldn't push him, but the heat can it appears.
Yeah, this team looks about done without a sub or two.
Strand Larsen and Aasgaard, maybe.
Obviously longer tournament, but Mbappe and Dembele were first two players for the country to score 5 goals in a tournament since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002. Bellingham and Kane now also both on 6. Haaland among the top scorers (despite being rested for a game) and Messi too. Really is very enjoyable that all the really good players are having good tournaments.
For Harry, England, and St Jude
No hate trick i guess
Interesting one sub left and Burn on to try and hold it... :ph34r:
Every single throw-in and free kick to England. :rolleyes:
That's a shame. Definitely a feeling the better team didn't win
Thank God for that, now I don't have to pretend to like those fell apes. So happy to see those smug cunts out of this tournament. My non-jinxing tactic worked.
And I can't even enjoy it very much since the fucking Norwegians, like always, are nice friendly sportsmanlike guys.
Well, Malvino-Falklander derby it is then. :P
Really good effort. Both teams ran out of gas, unfortunately norway ran out of gas after going behind.
Also, while Argentina hasn't been great i dont think this english team has it in them.
And the three dudes in silly lion suits are hilarious.
The Hobbits beat the Trolls.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on July 11, 2026, 06:47:52 PMWell, Malvino-Falklander derby it is then. :P
Dude...if I was an Argentina fan I would punch you in the mouth for jinxing them :lol:
They still have to overcome a team powered by Nazi gold, while all Argentina got were the actual Nazis.
Love Dan Burn after all - his last header and Bellingham's first goal all things I love about football.
I think Norway pressed so much in the second half they ran out of gas for extra time. As I think probably the worst full 90 minutes I've seen from England - and lucky to get through the second half - but then much improved in extra time.
I think on subs as well, Spence was very good.
Interesting so many are assuming England - Argentina.
Not just here.
Messi is good but... The rest Argentina are pretty poor right now.
I do think xhaka will have them.
FIFA claiming the connected ball didn't detect that it hit the camera wire...which makes me doubt that it accurately picked up a ball grazing a Croatian quiff :hmm:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 07:18:40 PMFIFA claiming the connected ball didn't detect that it hit the camera wire...which makes me doubt that it accurately picked up a ball grazing a Croatian quiff :hmm:
A false positive is not the same as a false negative :contract:
Nazi Gold vs Nazi Genes. Let's see who wins :ph34r:
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 11, 2026, 07:18:40 PMFIFA claiming the connected ball didn't detect that it hit the camera wire...which makes me doubt that it accurately picked up a ball grazing a Croatian quiff :hmm:
I watched the video 10 times. You can clearly see that an object resembling a ball was in the air, I have no doubt about that.
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 08:02:21 PMNazi Gold vs Nazi Genes. Let's see who wins :ph34r:
Genes 1 Gold 0
:D
Is it my lack of interest, or is this game boring?
Quote from: Threviel on July 11, 2026, 06:50:04 PMAnd the three dudes in silly lion suits are hilarious.
I thought they were ewoks
I just realized that if Switzerland wins, it would be quite a geographically compact final four.
That minute when Argentina kept resetting the ball for the free kick has been the most exciting minute of the match so far.
Lol
1-1
Guess Infantino didn't like the score line
VARGENTINA strikes again.
Why did FIFA have to cram the VAR for mistaken yellow into "mistaken identity"? This isn't mistaken identity, this is a mistaken foul. Why not just make a rule that yellow cards can be reviewed by VAR without forcing the yellow card to be transferred to the other team's player?
Quote from: Grey Fox on July 11, 2026, 09:35:53 PMVARGENTINA strikes again.
Think Argentina will win the cup in regulation or PK? :tinfoil:
What was that? The had advantage and ref gave the fk .
*edit* stopped play to ask for free kick and then did nothing with it. What a weird chain of events lol
Watched the highlights of Argentina - Switzerland.
Does seem the Swiss had it until their guy decided to dive.
Argentinians play incredibly dirty and just like the France-Paraguay game, the ref did nothing about it. Unlike the French players though, Embolo let them get to his head, sadly. I'm so tired of this south american version of football. I hope England stomps them, hard.
Are the Argentinians really more dirty than the English players?
Maybe the difference is that our feeds which come from English commentators don't make much of it when England is playing.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DarwO6ngh2D/?igsh=MWxzZmZ4eWk4a3kzMQ==
The ref decided not to VAR an incident where Sander Berge was mowed down by an elbow in the box, a rather obvious penalty, and Pickford gets away with murder because he's a liability when coming off his line more times than not.
England wants, like northern Europeans in general, to see the players as fair play-minded. The truth is there is more pulling, kicking and punching nowadays, things "we" have always hated the Italians and Spaniards for doing, and a lot of flopping around needlessly after diving.
The flopping is so tedious.
Quote from: garbon on July 12, 2026, 09:30:26 AMThe flopping is so tedious.
Well the Swiss player got his just deserts, and arguable changed the games' momentum and possible outcome.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 12, 2026, 08:36:29 AMAre the Argentinians really more dirty than the English players?
Maybe the difference is that our feeds which come from English commentators don't make much of it when England is playing.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DarwO6ngh2D/?igsh=MWxzZmZ4eWk4a3kzMQ==
Thank goodness for "redhot_takes" on Insta to offer a more sober counter narrative :P
FWIW the consensus of pundits on British TV was that England were lucky on their first goal - as Gary Neville put it following FIFA's comment that the "connected ball" didn't register anything but the Norwegians were on the pitch pointing it out: "I'd trust the Norwegians over FIFA". And also that they were lucky the second Norwegian goal was ruled out. I was also listening to one of the main football podcasts today where they made the point that the striking thing ahead of England-Argentina is how similar they've been as teams this tournament.
Also just to flag because I see people shouting about this in almost every game, covering your mouth isn't a straight red. It has to be in the context of a confrontation and we have seen examples of players doing it and then realising and trying to dob each other in for it. Odegaard didn't and my assumption is that's because it wasn't a confrontation - with his arm around him and then a pat on the back as well - but rather they're two players who've been competing in the same league for the last five years. But had Odegaard said it was a confrontation or aggravating then Pickford would have been at risk (context here was a player allegedly racially abusing Vini Jr, who was backed up by Mbappe, while his mouth was covered - there was lots more inevitably with Mourinho involved and I think it finally being concluded he'd homophobically abused Vini). But it would still be refs discretion on if it's in a confrontation or not.
More broadly though I basically agree with Norg - I am more sympathetic to the flopping because time and again we've seen that refs don't give fouls if players just get on with it. If you were likely to correctly get a foul without flopping around I think players would flop around less. There's times when they shouldn't - and I think Kane is bad - but important fouls get missed if they don't. Also I feel like you get a bit of "get up" from Roy Keane but the era of outrage over diving feels very past to me - that's Souness and Hanson and Lawro on Match of the Day. It needs to be as obvious as Embolo's (where he starts diving before the opposing player has even arrived :lol:) to get done for simulation.
Slightly interesting/surprising thing for me was both defences nullified the main threats of Haaland and Kane pretty well. I think they still both had problems and needed solutions from other players (and I don't want to pile on but I think Sorloth needs to take a bit of responsibility there - to be really blunt I suspect if he makes a better decision it's a different result). I don't think either had much to do which surprised me.
English pendant saying the team was lucky it should be translated as yeah we cheated like fuck and got away with it
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 12, 2026, 01:04:27 PMEnglish pendant saying the team was lucky it should be translated as yeah we cheated like fuck and got away with it
how did they cheat?
Quote from: Josephus on July 12, 2026, 01:41:07 PMQuote from: crazy canuck on July 12, 2026, 01:04:27 PMEnglish pendant saying the team was lucky it should be translated as yeah we cheated like fuck and got away with it
how did they cheat?
Playing the ball off the wire? If you subscribe to its not cheating if you can get away with it, then see the post you replied to.
The flop when getting into a pushing match. If that is not cheating if you can get away with it, see the post you replied to.
etc.
It was not the English players who cheated, although Anderson did make a spectacle out of falling.
I am quite ready to put this game behind me, even though it hurts a bit.
The England vs. Argentina debacle with regards to ugly fouls does have a longer historical context than the Hand of God.
In 1966, the two teams met in the quarter final and Argentina was consistently fouling the English players, especially Bobby Charlton. The diplomatic captain of Argentina, Antonio Rattin, was himself sent off. Rattin interestingly later became a senator for a party that sprung out of the military dictatorship's apologists. Three other players from Argentina received yellow cards. This was at a time when Pelé was fouled so badly that his career almost ended on wet English pitches.
Italian football has a "dark arts" school of thought, essentially all is fair in love and war and football is war. Cynical fouls are not bad, they are part of the game. This school of thought is prevalent also in Argentina and some of the other South American countries.
Here is Claudio Gentile.
Yeah - Jonathan Wilson's Angels with Dirty Faces is fantastic on this and particularly the image of the pibe (fulfilled by Maradona), I think Galeano has also written about la garra in Uruguayan football company. And both come from the origins of football in those countries with big physical British players (often from the Anglo elite of those countries but also, say, sailors) and the pibe (or "urchin") is smaller, can't rely on strength, with winning smile and desire to level the playing field with skill and guile and sometimes any means necessary. I think the celebration of that side of the game within those footballing cultures was (is?) distinctive (I did not enjoy the Luis Suarez jumpscare last night :lol:).
Maybe you see bits of it coming up the celebration of the cage footballers in Ile-de-France and South London (the Crystal Palace assembly line)?
I think English football used to celebrate big athletic players, then when that stopped working "heart" and idea of them not going down, play through pain etc. All of that as Graeme Souness (rather despicably) put it "Latin" nonsense. I think football's more globalised now especially at the top level of a few teams, European competitions etc and I'm not really sure there are many distinctive teams or styles. So, sadly, we might be past the days of the pibe or la garra.
Honestly why I low-key enjoyed Paraguay. That felt to me from that tradition of a small country surrounded by footballing giants who need to win through other means.
But I'd still say there's a world from ref having a bad game and players cheating.
Edit: Actually that English (and I think, excluding the Dutch, North European?) way maybe reminds me of some of the Yank discourse going on right now. Where they're basically saying the problem they have is their best athletes aren't interested in football so it's their tenth tier athletes up against the worlds best - which is insane cope and just misunderstands the sport. Athleticism matters and has got more important (the length of careers now is mind blowing) but it is not athleticism that makes Messi or Maradona etc.
Edit: Anyway enough talk about cheating, I'm off to listen to my Tour de France podcast :ph34r:
I'm so tired of this discourse regarding the dark arts of football. It's not cute, quaint or "the only way small countries can compete". It's cheating. It's anti-football. It's the opposite of sportsmanship.
There's a LOT of countries, including at this world cup, who punched above their weight without elbows in the stomach, cries to the ref, flopping and time wasting. You don't need that shit to succeed.
Quote from: mongers on July 12, 2026, 09:38:28 AMQuote from: garbon on July 12, 2026, 09:30:26 AMThe flopping is so tedious.
Well the Swiss player got his just deserts, and arguable changed the games' momentum and possible outcome.
Yet, for some reason the English dives did not get a yellow card. They dived their way to the final of the last couple of Euros with dives. Hardly new.
It's not like the Dutch, Germans, French, Argentines, etc. and others do not dive or cheat. Diving and cheating plagues football and VAR has not succeeded in eliminating it.
Ah yes, never try that when playing vs Messi. :P What was Embolo thinking?
Speaking of Messi, he can get away with a lot of stuff, see the confrontation with the referee Pinheiro where he demands respect but grants none to the referee.
Quote"HABLÁ BIEN, NO FALTES EL RESPETO. A MÍ HÁBLAME BIEN".
"Speak nicely to me, show some respect, Talk to me nicely "
https://twitter.com/i/status/2076170322919792751
Not to mention the whole 1966 tournament was completely rigged for England, courtesy of Stanley Rous. João Havelange recognised it, but then he was against Rous as he was the ™Third World's Champion™. Rous also happened to be pro Apartheid-era South Africa.
As for England-Argentina that year, both teams misbehaved but the German referee followed orders. Germany's turn would come in the final.
Pelé was open season from the very beginning as well.
Quote from: HVC on July 11, 2026, 09:44:38 PMQuote from: Grey Fox on July 11, 2026, 09:35:53 PMVARGENTINA strikes again.
Think Argentina will win the cup in regulation or PK? :tinfoil:
Extra time? :P
Quote from: Sheilbh on July 12, 2026, 02:40:20 PM..snip...
Edit: Anyway enough talk about cheating, I'm off to listen to my Tour de France podcast :ph34r:
Shelf, I didn't know you were a cyclist. :frog:
:lol: I'm not really. I like the grand tours and cycle on holiday.
I tried to get into cycling in London and thought I was going to die.
Edit: Actually, tell a lie - one of my favourite sports at the Olympics too.
The ball hitting the camera is not cheating. How so? The ref may have erred but it's not cheating. Were the players supposed to stop and tell the referee that the game should be stopped?