Usa World Cup Qualifiying Continues

[Booher]

Usa scores in the 5th minute vs el salvador:D

[Booher]

fox sports world rules baby

[Booher]

2 zap usa............ when next usa plays on american soil.............I will be there..............I have been looking forward to this far more than any bronco game I have ever been to...........

[margerafanisbac]

who do u think's gunna win...russia or slovokia...they play either today or tomorrow i think. i think the final 2 teams will be canada for sure and either USA or russia. canada dont play when it comes to hockey, eh?

:rockon: rock chick :rockon:

[Booher]

usa draws w/ panama 1 - 1 w/ a goal in the 2nd minute of injury time when next we play panama I will be there in RFK stadium:D

[caveatemptor]

The Panama game was the worst I've seen the US play since the 98' World Cup. Panama completely outclassed the US and were terribly unlucky not only to not have won, but also won by a couple of goals. That's the first time I've seen the Nats just get totally out-hustled, it seemed like they didn't even care. Don't get me wrong, I'm extremely relieved the US got a point, but if they play like that again, I'd be very surprised to see them even qualify.

[Booher]

they did play bad well in the 2nd half i'd say it was expected playing their 2nd game in 5 days and the second one on the road....draw on the road is a good result

[Booher]

It continues........usa wins. 2 - 0 in el salvador....takes a commanding lead in the group.

[Booher]

Damn game wasen't on regulary.......wait till the wife see's I paid 24.95 to watch the game...I'll be in trouble........

[threeamigos]

yeah, i was gonna say, i had no idea fox sports was televising the games. i would have loved to have seen them. i'm a football fan but i've never actually played the game. i grew up playing soccer all my life and i've been waiting for the USA to step up to the plate for a long time now.

i'm two out of three right now: the Broncos got their championships, the Bulls got theirs, just need the US to get theirs . . . which may not happen in my lifetime, but hell, i'll take a second round berth at this point.

[Booher]

Moving on to the next round

http://www.ussoccer.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=115923&itype=113&iCategoryID=0

Whoever says there is no scoring in soccer don't tell that to panama........:D

You'll see it in your lifetime.......you will.....Usa got the shaft in the last world cup the nocall on the handball in the box , Donavans shot was going in to tie it at 1 - 1.........I think they have not lost in like 12 games now. Only 1 loss this year at the neatherlands 0 - 1.

[Booher]

http://216.58.161.130/forums/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=319951

The first round is over and usa as expected is marching on to the second round and extends the unbeaten streak to 13 games and in the process eliminated jamaica from the final round of qualifing. :rockon:

[RunByDesign]

Go USA! :fight: :)

[Booher]

The last round begins soon............!..At the same time I just put my name into the lottery for usa world cup tickets the 3 first round games.........660 euros.

[The Dark Knight]

What is this world cup thing you speak of?
:goofy:

[Booher]

What is this world cup thing you speak of?
:goofy:


Soccer..........My favorite sport

[The Dark Knight]

Soccer..........My favorite sport


Yeah, I know.
I razz all the foreigners I work with about soccer all the time. I've actually got the Nigerians liking football more but the British guys aren't budging.

[Booher]

Yeah, I know.
I razz all the foreigners I work with about soccer all the time. I've actually got the Nigerians liking football more but the British guys aren't budging.


Thats my game I'm gonna drop some serious chow to see the usa in the world cup in germany........

[Booher]

At least this can bring a smile to my face...........

http://www.ussoccer.com/events/competitions.sps?iType=263

[Booher]

Big game tomorrow......usa at mexico at 1pm on espn 2......

[y2cragie]

I'm happy england killed nrthern ireland. Not that it was a surprise. Mexico might give the US some competition. Should be interesting to see if the US can step up again at the next world cup.

[Granty Boy]

Thats my game I'm gonna drop some serious chow to see the usa in the world cup in germany........

Hopefully going to get to a few games myself. Just trying to talk a few mates into going with me.

Just a shame England will probably qualify for it. :mad:

[welshbronco]

Hopefully going to get to a few games myself. Just trying to talk a few mates into going with me.

Just a shame England will probably qualify for it. :mad:

How are Scotland doing? Wales are really messing it up! :mad: I just hope they manage to get their act together in time for the game v England in October - serious payback time!
And Booher - how did it go against the Mexicans?

[Booher]

How are Scotland doing? Wales are really messing it up! :mad: I just hope they manage to get their act together in time for the game v England in October - serious payback time!
And Booher - how did it go against the Mexicans?


Lost 2 - 1........both goals a minute apart......had a brain fart and thats what cost them the game.

[Booher]

Thats more like it..... 2- 0 against guatamala.......yea baby!

[y2cragie]

One i am looking forward to is the US England friendly in July. Should be played in Chicago. This will be good for you Booher as it'll give the US a chance to play a team that are a legitimate word cup contender and see how well the US can do.

[welshbronco]

One i am looking forward to is the US England friendly in July. Should be played in Chicago. This will be good for you Booher as it'll give the US a chance to play a team that are a legitimate word cup contender and see how well the US can do.

Grr :mad: England keep marching on! Wales flop again against Austria last night - played better but a keeper mistake.
You are right about England being a World cup contender - on paper they have a team who could easily win the whole thing - a wealth of talent. Can't you just spare one or two players for Wales?

[y2cragie]

You can have Owen. He seems to short to reach the ball on crosses. :D or at least without using his hands.

[welshbronco]

You can have Owen. He seems to short to reach the ball on crosses. :D or at least without using his hands.

Ok thanks! Hopefully then we would see some better finishing in matches (and he was born this side of the border too). :cheers:

[y2cragie]

Him and Giggs would make for an awesome fast paced team.

[Den21-Bal19]

Ok thanks! Hopefully then we would see some better finishing in matches (and he was born this side of the border too). :cheers:

Maybe, but didn't Giggs play for England Schoolboys?

Mickey had a poor game last night, missed maybe 4/5 chances, but I'm amazed at some of the press he's had today, IMO he's still a top quality striker & I'd have him back at Anfield tomorrow.

Maybe you should try to talk Rushie out of retirement? Or King Kenny for our friends north of the border? I saw both of them playing in the Tsunami game on Sunday, and OK, they're a little slower, and in King Kenny's case a little wider, but the skill is still there, they were both phenomenal. :D

[welshbronco]

Maybe, but didn't Giggs play for England Schoolboys?

Mickey had a poor game last night, missed maybe 4/5 chances, but I'm amazed at some of the press he's had today, IMO he's still a top quality striker & I'd have him back at Anfield tomorrow.

Maybe you should try to talk Rushie out of retirement? Or King Kenny for our friends north of the border? I saw both of them playing in the Tsunami game on Sunday, and OK, they're a little slower, and in King Kenny's case a little wider, but the skill is still there, they were both phenomenal. :D

You were there at the Tsunami match. So cool - I would have loved it. I saw some of it on Sky and it was sensational. Wouldn't Mikey have loved to have the sort of service Dalglish provided? I think the media are real unfair on him too - and yes Giggsy did play for England Schoolboys.

[Den21-Bal19]

You were there at the Tsunami match. So cool - I would have loved it. I saw some of it on Sky and it was sensational. Wouldn't Mikey have loved to have the sort of service Dalglish provided? I think the media are real unfair on him too - and yes Giggsy did play for England Schoolboys.

Hell yeah, no way I was going to miss the chance to watch those guys play again, they were just pure magic :D

Great way to spend Easter Sunday, and around a million towards the relief effort, so a good cause as well, all the more so with the quake on Monday.

Have you seen any of the Master's Series Football? Basically it's for 35+ year olds, 6 a side, and it's great fun.

[welshbronco]

Hell yeah, no way I was going to miss the chance to watch those guys play again, they were just pure magic :D

Great way to spend Easter Sunday, and around a million towards the relief effort, so a good cause as well, all the more so with the quake on Monday.

Have you seen any of the Master's Series Football? Basically it's for 35+ year olds, 6 a side, and it's great fun.

Wow - a million quid. That's great and everyone had such a good time too - including the players. I just loved seeing so much of the players I supported as a kid - name after name popping up that was in my 1977 sticker album (the year I started supporting the reds) :D
I haven't seen any of the Master's football - sounds good though. is it on this weekend?

[Den21-Bal19]

Wow - a million quid. That's great and everyone had such a good time too - including the players. I just loved seeing so much of the players I supported as a kid - name after name popping up that was in my 1977 sticker album (the year I started supporting the reds) :D
I haven't seen any of the Master's football - sounds good though. is it on this weekend?

No it starts in the summer. Liverpool keep getting moved around to give the Manure fogeys a chance to qualify :laugh:

It is great fun to watch , I'll certainly be trying to go to watch the Reds playing, hopefully in the final as well. I can thoroughly recommend it for a good day out for any football fan :D

Masters Football 2005 (http://www.mastersfootball.com/)
Schedule for this year's Masters:

Masters Cup 2005
Heat 3
June 26: Sheffield Masters
Hallam FM Arena: Sheffield - Kick-off 3pm
Sheffield Wednesday Masters/Sheffield Utd Masters/Liverpool Masters/Everton Masters



Masters Cup 2005 - Grand Final
September 4
M.E.N Arena: Manchester - Kick-off 4pm

[welshbronco]

Manure fogeys need all the help they can get :laugh: Ty for the link Den 21. It sounds cool.

[Den21-Bal19]

Manure fogeys need all the help they can get :laugh: Ty for the link Den 21. It sounds cool.

It is. It's played on a pitch that's like an Ice Hockey rink, with a plexiglass fence. Couple of years back, big Jan Molby had a coming together with the wall. Fortunately for Jan he used Frank Stapelton as an airbag :D

[welshbronco]

It is. It's played on a pitch that's like an Ice Hockey rink, with a plexiglass fence. Couple of years back, big Jan Molby had a coming together with the wall. Fortunately for Jan he used Frank Stapelton as an airbag :D

Ouch! Poor Frank! Has he recovered? :goofy:

[Granty Boy]

How are Scotland doing? Wales are really messing it up! :mad: I just hope they manage to get their act together in time for the game v England in October - serious payback time!
And Booher - how did it go against the Mexicans?

Scotland only lost two nil against Italy. I didn't see the game as I went to see Judas Preist and the Scorpions that night. Italy probably scored twice and then had 11 men behind the ball for the rest of the game! ;)

[Den21-Bal19]

Scotland only lost two nil against Italy. I didn't see the game as I went to see Judas Preist and the Scorpions that night. Italy probably scored twice and then had 11 men behind the ball for the rest of the game! ;)

That's pretty much it, there's nothing worse to watch than an Italian side that is a goal or two up :yawn:

Listening to Radio 5 though, it sounded like you played pretty well against them, at least one of the goals was from a dead ball. Can Scotland still qualify, or did you leave it too long to get rid of Berti McVoghts?

[Booher]

Another convincing win for the united states......The best part is 40000 screaming fans for the us....3 - 0 over costa rica.

http://www.ussoccer.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=181749

[y2cragie]

lets hope the US does something before the world cup. Costa rica are nothing in the world of football. the fact is they got beaten by the england C squad 2-1. they wont get far during the world cup if they cant step up.

[Den21-Bal19]

lets hope the US does something before the world cup. Costa rica are nothing in the world of football. the fact is they got beaten by the england C squad 2-1. they wont get far during the world cup if they cant step up.

A kind word for England from our northern neighbours, what is the world coming too????? :D

What do you think of Smithy as your new manager? Considering some of the truly great players I saw come south, the likes of King Kenny D, Jocky Hansen & Graeme Souness, Scottish football doesn't seem to be producing the players nowadays. When you look at the class of the guys I just mentioned, it's a real shame.

[y2cragie]

Hi den, while i have scottish blood i am a brit. screws up the mind choosing the lesser of two evils :D
scottish football wont produce quality players till they get much better coverage. simple fact is there are only two teams worth mentioning and too many foreigners in the scottish game from what i have seen

[Den21-Bal19]

Hi den, while i have scottish blood i am a brit. screws up the mind choosing the lesser of two evils :D
scottish football wont produce quality players till they get much better coverage. simple fact is there are only two teams worth mentioning and too many foreigners in the scottish game from what i have seen

Sorry my bad. Some of your other comments made me assume :heh:

I'd agree about the setup of the Scottish League, although it pretty well always has been that way with regards to Rangers & Celtic. It just seems to be even more difficult than ever before for the other clubs to spring a suprise.

[Booher]

I think I may miss the next qualifier on wednesday......I'm in charlotte nc for the week(work related). I don't think my hotel gets espn 2, but I do have wireless internet. :D

[y2cragie]

hopefully the US will win, i really want to see them and England go up against each other in the world cup. Its great publicity for both teams, its always a good game.

[Booher]

hopefully the US will win, i really want to see them and England go up against each other in the world cup. Its great publicity for both teams, its always a good game.


I have no doubt....usa and mexico both have commanding leads in qualifying......

[Sevenis7]

But the BIGGEST international rivalry will be this Wednesday in Buenos Aires: Argentina v. Brazil. Thing's look a bit shaky for the Argentines coming off a 2-0 defeat to Ecuador. Should be an exciting game. Unfortunately, I'm going to miss it b/c I have an evening class that day...

Booher, I couldn't agree w/you more about CONCACAF qualifiers. USA and Mexico in a cake walk, but who do you think will come in 3rd? I'm Guatemalan, and I was fooled into thinking they would do well after the good start. After seeing their games against "the big boys", I'm not so sure now. Their midfield stinks: losing possession too quickly always has defense playing on their heels + outside midfielders don't track back (ie, out of shape). Without Ruiz, their offense has vanished. Pezzarosi just takes up space; need to find another striker.

[Booher]

prolly costa rica.......But panama is a decent squad and could come in fourth even after their bad start to play against asia #4 for a spot also.

[Sevenis7]

Yeah, I've heard Panama has given other teams a hard time. Mexico was fortunate to get the victory when it looked like the game was going to end in a tie.

[Booher]

Call it a lock for the 7th world cup in a row for the us........just 1 pt behind mexico.....

[Booher]

I can't resisit...USA is now up to 6th on the FIFA world rankings...Their highest ranking ever.

http://www.fifa.com/en/mens/statistics/index/0,2548,All-Jul-2005,00.html

[Den21-Bal19]

I can't resisit...USA is now up to 6th on the FIFA world rankings...Their highest ranking ever.

http://www.fifa.com/en/mens/statistics/index/0,2548,All-Jul-2005,00.html

Congratulations on your ranking, I've been said back in '94 that if you buggers took the game seriously then the rest of the world would be in trouble. I gave it a generation, ie 20-25 years. Germany next year is probably a little too soon for you to win the World Cup, I reckon 2014/18 is more likely to be your first truly genuine chance to become World Champions.


However, to an extent, the current ranking is an artifact of the European nations basically having their summer holidays, along with the odd friendly. I believe that you've played a couple of qualifiers which have higher weightings for FIFA's coefficients.

FIFA's ranking procedures (http://www.fifa.com/en/mens/statistics/rank/procedures/0,2540,3,00.html)

Don't forget, England's third string coped quite comfortably with you a couple of months back :P

[Sevenis7]

I hate those FIFA rankings b/c they're so out of touch w/what is shown on the field. USA is improved, but does anyone really believe we're the 6th best team in the world? Not even Bruce Arena is buying it! More than likely, we're between 10th and 13th best.
----------

Top 5
1. Argentina
2. Brazil
3. England
4. Italy
5. France

[Den21-Bal19]

I hate those FIFA rankings b/c they're so out of touch w/what is shown on the field. USA is improved, but does anyone really believe we're the 6th best team in the world? Not even Bruce Arena is buying it! More than likely, we're between 10th and 13th best.
----------

Top 5
1. Argentina
2. Brazil
3. England
4. Italy
5. France


Well thanks for the vote of confidence, but at the moment I'd probably put both Italy & the Czech Republic above England, and France are a side in a serious spell of rebuilding. The one that always puzzles me about the FIFA rankings is the Dutch. OK, they play very attractive football, but they can't win anything! How are they always in the top 4? :confused:

[bronx_2003]

Well thanks for the vote of confidence, but at the moment I'd probably put both Italy & the Czech Republic above England, and France are a side in a serious spell of rebuilding. The one that always puzzles me about the FIFA rankings is the Dutch. OK, they play very attractive football, but they can't win anything! How are they always in the top 4? :confused:

the czech republic??? :confused: not sure about that.

the rankings are a joke to be honest. the reason you get teams like USA and MEXICO up the top (far higher then they are in reality) is because of the games they play in the qualifiers and their version of the euro. championships. they pick up points for beating teams you never heard of whereas european teams have to play in tough groups to qualify.

it also explains australias sudden rise up the rankings when they beat fiji and the cook islands and new zealand, etc................

thats why no one takes the rankings seriously, you saw what happened when the england 'c' side played in the states.

[y2cragie]

These teams such as the US, Australia can afford to play the extra internationals. alot of their players have alot less in their scheduels compaired to the european teams. Dont get me wrong, the US are a good team, but like others have said, their fifa ranking is partially because they have played so many friendlies against much easier teams, and their world cup quali group isnt exactly tough.

[Den21-Bal19]

[QUOTE=bronx_2003]the czech republic??? :confused: not sure about that./QUOTE]

Ever since Euro 96 they're consistent quarter/semi finalists, they play good football, and have some damned good players in the likes of Nedved & Baros (Wy can't he play for my Reds like he does for the Czechs?)

Can't quite put my finger on why, I just think that they're a pretty good side.

[leythdave]

Lets see how he does for.... That Kraut side on loan- what a shambles, Come on Luis Figo the time is right.

[Den21-Bal19]

Lets see how he does for.... That Kraut side on loan- what a shambles, Come on Luis Figo the time is right.

If you're on about Baros, the deal's fell through and LFC aren't willing to let him go on loan. Latest rumour is a move across Stanley Park to the BS!

As for Figo, what a drawn out, protracted affair that is! I'd love to see him in Red, but time's running out on Rafa's self-imposed transfer deadline.

[Sevenis7]

As for Figo, what a drawn out, protracted affair that is! I'd love to see him in Red, but time's running out on Rafa's self-imposed transfer deadline.

Don't you think Figo's past his prime? He's going to want to get paid big $$, so I think whoever buys him is going to overpay for 2 years' worth of mediocre play. Steer clear, Den-Bal. He's not worth the money.

[Den21-Bal19]

Don't you think Figo's past his prime? He's going to want to get paid big $$, so I think whoever buys him is going to overpay for 2 years' worth of mediocre play. Steer clear, Den-Bal. He's not worth the money.

He's available on a free and we've supposedly already agreed a drop in wages, so the money's not really an issue. As for being past his prime, he's still looked a very good player everytime I've seen him, I think he would certainly add something to our squad.

Looks immaterial though, latest rumour is that he once again prefers Milan.

[Sevenis7]

Charity Shield will be shown here (Los Angeles) Sunday @ 4PM. Who wins? Arsenal or Chelsea?

[Den21-Bal19]

Charity Shield will be shown here (Los Angeles) Sunday @ 4PM. Who wins? Arsenal or Chelsea?

I think Arsenal will (hopefully) get the Chavs off to a bad start, the poor babies are still moaning about Liverpool knocking them out of last years Champions League. Over here, the Chavs are very rapidly starting to challenge Manure as the most hated team in the country.

Winning the Community Shield may not be such a good thing though:

Communtiy Shield - A Bad Omen (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/4741347.stm)

Bad news that Campbell' s injured again, Senderos & Toure were exceptional at times last year, but Arsenal are a little thin after that.

[Sevenis7]

I was rooting for Arsenal, but after seeing the game on TV, the Gunners were lucky to have made it close. They had possession of the ball for most of the game, but never threatened. Chelsea looked a lot more dangerous in attack. It could have easily been 3 or 4 to 0.

Drogba was a beast! The guy's big and fast. First goal, Senderos recovered pretty well, but could not physically match up to him. I don't think I have to say much about the second goal. I mean 1 on 4, and you still score (even after Senderos practically tackles you)!

You mentioned Campbell being out due to injury. Once he gets fit, how do you think the back four will change? I think Lauren should play Viera's old position in defensive midfield. Doesn't he play midfield for Cameroon?

Arsenal's "midfield" (I use this term grudgingly after what I saw on Sunday) looked terrible. Bergkamp has no legs! He didn't as a recessed striker, much less as an outside half. Pires, though not one of my favorites, had brief flashes, but he's got to let go of the ball! Too much cheekiness.

[Den21-Bal19]

I was rooting for Arsenal, but after seeing the game on TV, the Gunners were lucky to have made it close. They had possession of the ball for most of the game, but never threatened. Chelsea looked a lot more dangerous in attack. It could have easily been 3 or 4 to 0.

Drogba was a beast! The guy's big and fast. First goal, Senderos recovered pretty well, but could not physically match up to him. I don't think I have to say much about the second goal. I mean 1 on 4, and you still score (even after Senderos practically tackles you)!

You mentioned Campbell being out due to injury. Once he gets fit, how do you think the back four will change? I think Lauren should play Viera's old position in defensive midfield. Doesn't he play midfield for Cameroon?

Arsenal's "midfield" (I use this term grudgingly after what I saw on Sunday) looked terrible. Bergkamp has no legs! He didn't as a recessed striker, much less as an outside half. Pires, though not one of my favorites, had brief flashes, but he's got to let go of the ball! Too much cheekiness.

That is one of Arsenal's problems, IMO, every goal has to be picture perfect. Wenger said about 5 years ago that he needed 'a fox in the box' when Wrighty's career was ending, but he's still not found him. Why the Gunners aren't after Owen at Real Madrid is beyond me, he's not the most clinical of strikers, but he'll guarantee you 18-20 goals a season.

I didn't see the game on Sunday, but the radio commentary seemed to suggest a pretty even game.

I'm not sure how or even if things will change when Campbell comes back, I can see Wenger keeping Toure & Senderos as his first choice partnership, Sol may only play in the big games as he seems to becoming injury prone. Plus there's a whisper going around that you might be prepared to offer Campbell in part-ex for Jermaine Jenas at Newcastle.

Who would you put in at right back if Lauren moved forwards? And who would you drop from the centre midfield, Fabregas or Geremi? Most of the commentators last year seemed to think that you really missed Geremi last season.

Another way of keeping abreast of happenings is BBC Radio 5live's football phone in. This runs from 18:00 - 20:00 on a Saturday night, 18:00 - 19:00 on Sundays and 22:00 - 23:00 on a Wednesday night. A good mix of sensible & crazy fans as well as the odd crazy feature.

[Sevenis7]

That is one of Arsenal's problems, IMO, every goal has to be picture perfect. Wenger said about 5 years ago that he needed 'a fox in the box' when Wrighty's career was ending, but he's still not found him. Why the Gunners aren't after Owen at Real Madrid is beyond me, he's not the most clinical of strikers, but he'll guarantee you 18-20 goals a season.

Owens would be awesome. To me, Henry carries too much of the offense. There needs to be other options, b/c basically if you stop Henry, you stop Aresenal.

I didn't see the game on Sunday, but the radio commentary seemed to suggest a pretty even game.

It wasn't. Arsenal batted the ball around, but never threatened. Chelsea was far more dangerous in attack. A more deserving scoreline would have been Chelsea 3- Arsenal 0.

Who would you put in at right back if Lauren moved forwards? And who would you drop from the centre midfield, Fabregas or Geremi? Most of the commentators last year seemed to think that you really missed Geremi last season.

I would move Toure to right back. (I thought he played on the outside when he first came to the club.) Pires is OK as outside midfielder, but there really is a dearth of attacking talent IMO. Reyes could partner w/Henry up top, but we need some creativity and scoring threat from central midfield, a true "#10". I just don't see it.

[frenchfan]

Owens would be awesome. To me, Henry carries too much of the offense. There needs to be other options, b/c basically if you stop Henry, you stop Aresenal.I agree... It's the same with the french national team... Hopefully, Zidane will be there for the next few games... May be we'll be able to play and to score....

I've seen the Fifa rankings... France is still in the top 5 ??? How can it be possible ??? We are that bad currently... Well, may be they knew before us that Zizou will return !!! :laugh:
Anyway, with or without him, the qualify will be tough... But of course, our chances increase now...

I agree with Den about USA... USA are a good team, but I don't think they are at the same level than European teams or than Brazil / Argentina....
But they have really improve... If you go on to play soccer serioulsy, you'll become a very good soccer's nation... IMO, you need to have a better championship and to send your players to the best Europeans championships...

[y2cragie]

It's the same with the french national team Isn't that just Arsenal under a differant name anyway? As for Chelsea, a prime example of the game very quickly becoming nothing but a money game. Who is next in line to buy the brazilian national team to play as Man Utd's 1st team squad?

[frenchfan]

Isn't that just Arsenal under a differant name anyway? As for Chelsea, a prime example of the game very quickly becoming nothing but a money game. Who is next in line to buy the brazilian national team to play as Man Utd's 1st team squad?Well, french national team is not really Arsenal... Yep, there were some french players (Henry, Pirés, Wiltord & Viera)... But Wiltord & Viera have gone now & Pirés don't play anymore with the national team... But that was a good joke anyway... :D

But I agree on a point with you : it's a money game... You were talking about Chelski... But there are some other teams like that : Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, Milan AC, Inter Milan, Man Utd's...
That's one of the reason why it's difficult for a french team to win the CL ! We don't have enough money to fight against some teams. Plus, the rules about money here in France are very strong... Almost all the teams I named couldn't play in the french championships because they are not financelly balanced...

[y2cragie]

Sadly EU rules prevent a salary cap which is desperatly needed in the european game. As is a rule on international players allowed per team. Chelsea has few if any english starters, same with arsenal, i think two years ago they only had 1 english player as a starter. Sadly UEFA the English FA and the FA itself are all too short sighted to see that when the current crop of players retire there are going to be few to replace them especially home grown talent.

[frenchfan]

I understand your point... I'm not so disapointed about the situation of french players because we can't buy so many foreign players in our championship... Plus, young french players are welcome all over Europe : not too expensive & good overall qualities... Because of our lack of money, we turned to formation. So we're teaching well our young players...

But here in France, you have to be financially balanced. That means some teams such as Real or Milan couldn't play here... May be this system prevents us to be better in European competitions, but at least, it protects our players...

I've never seen so many great french players before... We had a great generation in the 80's (Platini, Giresse, Tigana & co)... But I think it's nothing compare to all the good players we have now (and may be will go on to have...)

Just my opinion.

[Den21-Bal19]

Sadly EU rules prevent a salary cap which is desperatly needed in the european game. As is a rule on international players allowed per team. Chelsea has few if any english starters, same with arsenal, i think two years ago they only had 1 english player as a starter. Sadly UEFA the English FA and the FA itself are all too short sighted to see that when the current crop of players retire there are going to be few to replace them especially home grown talent.

I don't think it's just an EU rule that prevents a salary cap. The only sports in which a salary cap works is basically the American only sports, Football, Baseball etc, and sports like Rugby where there is a limited number of professional leagues globaly. Football, which is a global game, can't be controlled by UEFA for example as the likes of Abramovich will flood leagues like Qatar with the money to attract the big names.

As for English players, I think under EU law any European Citizen is supposedly treated the same with regards to employment. As of next year (I think) teams that have qualified for European competition will be required to have 2 players that have come through their own academy system, plus a further 2 that can have come through another academy within the same association. These figures rise to 3 & 3 then 4 & 4 over the following 2 seasons. The only thing is that the rules don't ( and can't) specify nationality. There is also a specification as to what is required to qualify as an academy player.

So in Liverpool's case, Stevie G, Carra, Steven Warnock, Darren Potter & Zak Whitbread (a Texan!!!!) all qualify as having come through the Liverpool Academy. Harry Kewell & Scott Carson (Leeds) plus Peter Crouch (QPR) would qualify from the same association. About time we found a use for the lazy Aussie.

Manure should be OK, however I think both Arsenal & Chelsea will struggle to meet even the basic criteria, never mind the full whack in 3 years time.

[Sevenis7]

I've never seen so many great french players before... We had a great generation in the 80's (Platini, Giresse, Tigana & co)... But I think it's nothing compare to all the good players we have now (and may be will go on to have...)

Hey, French. I saw a show last weekend about a striker for Lyons. I forget his name, but the rumor was that he was going to move to an English club. Any word on the player/move?

[Den21-Bal19]

Hey, French. I saw a show last weekend about a striker for Lyons. I forget his name, but the rumor was that he was going to move to an English club. Any word on the player/move?

I think the player you are thinking of is Sidney Govou, a striker who can also play right wing.

Govou linked with Liverpool (http://skysports.planetfootball.com/Article.asp?id=292718)

Where this one may have legs is that Lyon manager Gerrard Houllier is interested in taking Liverpool's Czech striker Milan Baros to Lyon, so some sort of swap deal may be on the cards. Euro 2004 Golden Boot winner Baros was brought to Liverpool about 3 1/2 years ago by Houllier.

Interestingly, neither David Moores, Liverpool's majority shareholder & chairman or Rick Parry, the club's CEO attended last night's game in Bulgaria. Whilst it's unusual for either of them to miss a game, it's virtually unheard of for neither of them to attend, fueling rumours over here that something big is in the offing.



(Please come home Micheal????????????????????????)

[frenchfan]

I think the player you are thinking of is Sidney Govou, a striker who can also play right wing.

Govou linked with Liverpool (http://skysports.planetfootball.com/Article.asp?id=292718)

Where this one may have legs is that Lyon manager Gerrard Houllier is interested in taking Liverpool's Czech striker Milan Baros to Lyon, so some sort of swap deal may be on the cards. Euro 2004 Golden Boot winner Baros was brought to Liverpool about 3 1/2 years ago by Houllier.

Interestingly, neither David Moores, Liverpool's majority shareholder & chairman or Rick Parry, the club's CEO attended last night's game in Bulgaria. Whilst it's unusual for either of them to miss a game, it's virtually unheard of for neither of them to attend, fueling rumours over here that something big is in the offing.



(Please come home Micheal????????????????????????)Thanks for the answer to 7is7, Den...
My point is that Govou is a nice player, but not so great... He can make some great games and then do nothing... He's not a constant player... I would prefer Owen... But I think Govou can be good with Cissé... Govou is not really a scorer, but he's fast and can hurt some defenses...
IMO if he goes to Liverpool, it'll be good for you anyway...

[Den21-Bal19]

Thanks for the answer to 7is7, Den...
My point is that Govou is a nice player, but not so great... He can make some great games and then do nothing... He's not a constant player... I would prefer Owen... But I think Govou can be good with Cissé... Govou is not really a scorer, but he's fast and can hurt some defenses...
IMO if he goes to Liverpool, it'll be good for you anyway...

With Fernando Morientes & Peter Crouch in the side, we do need to get a kosher right winger. If we can get some balls in from the wide areas those two will have a good season, but IMO we're lacking their at the moment. I think maybe Pongolle may get a chance their once he's recovered from his ACL, he's got the pace to frighten defenders, good ball control and showed last year he can put balls into the box.

[frenchfan]

With Fernando Morientes & Peter Crouch in the side, we do need to get a kosher right winger. If we can get some balls in from the wide areas those two will have a good season, but IMO we're lacking their at the moment. I think maybe Pongolle may get a chance their once he's recovered from his ACL, he's got the pace to frighten defenders, good ball control and showed last year he can put balls into the box.What is a kosher Den ?
I guess I understand, but I'm not so sure... But if it's what I think, Govou would be a good deal for you... IMO.

[Den21-Bal19]

What is a kosher Den ?
I guess I understand, but I'm not so sure... But if it's what I think, Govou would be a good deal for you... IMO.

Kosher is sland taken from the Jewish term for food prepared in accordance with Jewish law.

Basically in this sort of context it means genuine, or good.

[Sevenis7]

Results from WC2006 Qualifiers:

USA 1- T&T 0. Goal came in 2nd minute. McBride knocked in a cross from Convey. Americans should have scored more than they did, but a win's a win.

Mexico 2- Costa Rica 0. Ticos went into game looking for the tie. Played 10 men back w/Wanchope as lone striker. Mexico struggled trying to unlock their defense. A little too much play down the middle for my liking. Goal came an hour into game (Borgetti). Once goal came, CR had to open up to try to equalize. Mexico (Fonseca) scored a late goal off a deflected save from goalkeeper (who looked bad all night).

Guatemala 2- Panama 1. After being down 1 goal (nice screen to allow player to come in far post), my chapines came back to win in extra time. Guatemala shouldn't have struggled so much, especially since they were playing at home. I already have lost hope of qualifying, and though they won tonight, it's just a tease. Not playing good soccer at the moment.

For our overseas friends: What was up with Denmark 4- England 1?

Thoughts/comments?

[frenchfan]

About England, I have no clue... What happened ? May be it's just because championships just began ?

Yesterday France played against Ivory (a really good team)... Zizou was back and what happened ? 3-0 ....
Zizou is really a great player... He scored and he made a good game though he was not in a great shape... WHat did he bring to us ? CONFIDENCE ! and all his personal skills (his view of the game, his technical)..
The French team made its best game since a long time.
Now, everything was not perfect... The score is rude for Ivory... They didn't deserve this result... They could have scored twice...
It's good news for the WC qualifying though I still think that it will be tough... The main point now is that french team find back its confidence and honestly they had a better way of playing now...

[Den21-Bal19]

For our overseas friends: What was up with Denmark 4- England 1?

Thoughts/comments?

Damned if I know what happened, England just didn't seem to show up for what was our worst result in 25 years.

However, England's recent record in friendlies hasn't been brilliant, but Ericcson has a habit of producing results when needed in the qualifiers, so I'm not too worried.

Bring on the Taffs!!!!!! :D

[frenchfan]

Well, officials games are all that matters ! Friendlies are just to test things and play together... Something like football preseason's games.

That's my concern about french team... Will they play like that during the next 4 WC qualifying games ? I hope so... I'll pray "God Zizou" (lol) for that...

[Sevenis7]

About England, I have no clue... What happened ? May be it's just because championships just began ?

I was shocked too. I think England is quietly building a good national side. There's some new blood there, and I think they might be a "dark horse" come next summer to win it all.

Zizou is really a great player... He scored and he made a good game though he was not in a great shape... WHat did he bring to us ? CONFIDENCE ! and all his personal skills (his view of the game, his technical)..
The French team made its best game since a long time.

You're preaching to the choir, Frenchfan. ZZ is one of the best players currently (easily in the Top 5) and of all time (Look at all the trophies he's won!).

[Den21-Bal19]

You're preaching to the choir, Frenchfan. ZZ is one of the best players currently (easily in the Top 5) and of all time (Look at all the trophies he's won!).

I remember talking to my step-dad, who can't stand footie, saying that he'd pay to watch ZZ play. What more needs to be said?

[Booher]

Results from WC2006 Qualifiers:

USA 1- T&T 0. Goal came in 2nd minute. McBride knocked in a cross from Convey. Americans should have scored more than they did, but a win's a win.


For our overseas friends: What was up with Denmark 4- England 1?

Thoughts/comments?


Usa should have won that game 5 - 0..They totatlly dominated Like I have not seen usa dominate before. It's all good.....both usa and mexico prolly will be qualified on saturday night regardless of whom wins their epic battle.

[frenchfan]

I was shocked too. I think England is quietly building a good national side. There's some new blood there, and I think they might be a "dark horse" come next summer to win it all.



You're preaching to the choir, Frenchfan. ZZ is one of the best players currently (easily in the Top 5) and of all time (Look at all the trophies he's won!).Well, I was really surprised too because I think England has a really good team.. We defeated you during the last European Championship thanks to ZZ... But honestly, we didn't deserve the victory. I think a tie would have been fair... (for us... LOL).

Well, Thanks about ZZ. Den , thanks too, what you said is enough. That was a great compliment.
We were blessed for having some great player in history. Platini & Zidane... We also have Henry but he needs to win so other trophies...

About USA, I think it would be great to see them at the WC. I guess that USA can be a great nation of soccer... If they just want it... IMO it's a little early for them to expect to win great competition. They still have to learn. Not enough experience IMO. But they have such a potential...
Going at the WC will allow USA to learn many good things and will help to develop them...

[Den21-Bal19]

About USA, I think it would be great to see them at the WC. I guess that USA can be a great nation of soccer... If they just want it... IMO it's a little early for them to expect to win great competition. They still have to learn. Not enough experience IMO. But they have such a potential...
Going at the WC will allow USA to learn many good things and will help to develop them...

Next year is too early for the US to win the World Cup, I personally think that 2014 is a more realistic target. I just don't think that at the moment the US has enough top class players with experience of the styles of play outside of the US.

As more Americans like young Adu become targets for, and then play for the top clubs, then the International team will become a lot more competitive.

[Sevenis7]

About USA, I think it would be great to see them at the WC. I guess that USA can be a great nation of soccer... If they just want it... IMO it's a little early for them to expect to win great competition. They still have to learn. Not enough experience IMO. But they have such a potential...
Going at the WC will allow USA to learn many good things and will help to develop them...

The biggest hurdle for USA (And what separates teams that have a legitimate shot at winning the WC and those that are just merely "good") is in attack. It's hard for teams to beat the US, because they have great goalkeeping (Just look at Germany in the last WC to see the value of goalkeeping) and every player is well conditioned (Something that other teams in CONCACAF can't say), they'll run from opening whistle to final whistle. Where USA struggles is in the attacking third of the field. We really don't have many creative playmakers. Reyna was it for the longest time, and now he's being replaced by Donovan. Strikers? Not really. McBride, but he's starting to get up there in age. I see plenty of young talent on defense (Bocanegra, Mastroeni, the Nigerian central full, Howard @ GK), but where are the strikers, the goal scorers for the future? Until we find someone, we'll be a poor man's Portugal- always promising but never really a contender.

[Booher]

About USA, I think it would be great to see them at the WC. I guess that USA can be a great nation of soccer... If they just want it... IMO it's a little early for them to expect to win great competition. They still have to learn. Not enough experience IMO. But they have such a potential...
Going at the WC will allow USA to learn many good things and will help to develop them...


I'm confused...Your posts insinuates that the usa has not been to the cup in some time...Every cup since 1990 usa has been a participant, so 2006 will be 5 in a row...And if the us has not beat great competition in the wc just see 2002...Victories against portugal in the first round and mexico in the elimination round and a 1 - 0 loss to Germany in a game that the us dominated. I also say that a team is not ranked 6th of the fifa world rankings for nothing.

[RoorRipper]

I'm extremely excited for the 2006 world cup.

A friend of mine that I grew up with now attends and starts at Boston University, and played some international soccer with Portugal, and he will be on the 2010 world cup squad. He said he barely missed the team for the 2006 squad but this next summer he will go over and practice with them.

[frenchfan]

I'm confused...Your posts insinuates that the usa has not been to the cup in some time...Every cup since 1990 usa has been a participant, so 2006 will be 5 in a row...And if the us has not beat great competition in the wc just see 2002...Victories against portugal in the first round and mexico in the elimination round and a 1 - 0 loss to Germany in a game that the us dominated. I also say that a team is not ranked 6th of the fifa world rankings for nothing.I didn't mean that Booher... But I just believe that USA have still not enough experience about soccer... Yep, you did the WC since 1990 and you had some good results... And, like I said in some previous posts, I think you have the potiential to be a great nation of soccer.
Will you be strong enough to beat Brasil, Italy, Holland, England or France ? I don't think so... But you're not so far from that...

Many countries are playing the WC for more than 50 years ! Their championships are among the best in the world... and their players are playing for the best teams... I don't see many Americans here yet... No offense... I think you're learning very well and fast... But I think your championship is still too weak. You need to export your players in the best team and the best championships, but also to develop your championship...

I think Den21 sum up my point very well : USA is now a good soccer's nation, but not a great one... I also think that 2014 is a good target for you to win the WC. 2006 is too early.

Now, talking about rankings ? I don't really trust them... France is still in the top 5 but we don't deserve it... Hopefully for us Zidane is back with 2 others good players (Thuram & Makelele)... I would like to see your rank if you were playing against more European teams or Brasil or Argentina... Again, it's not an offense, but CONCAF is not the toughest area in soccer... Don't you think so ?

You can also think about the African example... There are many good teams and good players there (try to play against Ivory for instance)... But they didn't win WC. Why ? Because of their lack of experience especially about tactical and field occupation. Now, I think you're closer than them to reach the goal because I think you have a more balanced team and you already learn tactical... You know how to defend for sure. I agree with 7is7 : your attack is weak...
You also need to find a great player. I mean, almost all great soccer's nations had some great player. Someone like John Elway for Broncos... They make you better when you need it.

I hope you'll see my point now... There were no offense in my posts. USA have no my respect about soccer, but I still don't see them as a top world team (despite your FIFA ranking... sorry)... I also know that if you go on this way, you will improve fast... See you in some years, I think we would find you among the top teams in the world... Just my opinion.

ps : a question for you Booher. I heard that a french player (who won the WC in 1998) is playing in the USA... Youri Djorkaef ... Have you heard something about him ? I think he has already scored 6 goals...

[frenchfan]

USA have no my respect about soccer, but I still don't see them as a top world team I made a mistake... This is what I wanted to write : USA have now my respect about soccer
:beer:

[y2cragie]

Sorry Frenchy but Zidane is well past it. I think the French need a player to replace him quickly, because his time is very quickly coming to an end. The US wont stand a chance of winning the World Cup until the nation takes it seriously. There could be some hidden talent in the country, that no-one knows about simply because they have no interest to play the game. The FIFA rankings really mean nothing.

[frenchfan]

Sorry Frenchy but Zidane is well past it. I think the French need a player to replace him quickly, because his time is very quickly coming to an end. That's your opinion and I agree on some parts. About teh WC it's great to have Zidane because he's still one of the best player in the business. Sure, he's not in his prime anymore, but I prefer to have him now. We need him just for the WC.

About our future (after WC), you're right. We need to replace him. But how can a player like him could be easily replace ? You don't replace one of the best player ever so easily... Ask Shanahan... :D

[y2cragie]

You dont just replace. you start early with someone who's got talent and build on it till they are ready. Sadly too many teams today dont do that, they hang on to older players who are no longer effective, when they retire the teams in trouble.
The England cricket team has been that way for so long, its only now they are one of the best in the world and giving the Aussies a hard time. but that oversight of young players meant they had to go for 5 to 10 years with a very bad team.

[frenchfan]

You dont just replace. you start early with someone who's got talent and build on it till they are ready. Sadly too many teams today dont do that, they hang on to older players who are no longer effective, when they retire the teams in trouble.
The England cricket team has been that way for so long, its only now they are one of the best in the world and giving the Aussies a hard time. but that oversight of young players meant they had to go for 5 to 10 years with a very bad team.Well it's not only Zidane to replace. IMO the retirement that hurted us so much was Deschamps, not Zidane... Even with Zizou, we were not good last WC and last Euro... We had a great generation of players... This generation is almost gone and I think it's great to have still some players who can make a transition with the new generation.
You can't replace all your team easily. And the deal is to always build a team while wining trophies... Not easy to solve in fact... My point is that you have to use the best players you have... Zidane is still the best for the french team... We have some solutions without him, but we also hve less confidence...

But it's true that you made good points y2c... It's a tough choice...

[Sevenis7]

About our future (after WC), you're right. We need to replace him. But how can a player like him could be easily replace ? You don't replace one of the best player ever so easily... Ask Shanahan... :D

Or ask Argentina. They've been looking for "the next Maradona" for 20 years. You're right, Frenchfan, a player like ZZ comes along once in a lifetime. The thing that separates these truly great footballers isn't their athletic abilities (though impressive); it's their vision, their ability to anticipate the game, that stands out to me. These players weren't only goal scorers; they created goals for others; they made their teammates better. Be grateful that we were able to see Pele, Maradona, Platini, Zidane play. Who will be the next "great one"? To be honest, I don't think he's playing anywhere in any league today. The truly great ones are few and far between.

[frenchfan]

Or ask Argentina. They've been looking for "the next Maradona" for 20 years. You're right, Frenchfan, a player like ZZ comes along once in a lifetime. The thing that separates these truly great footballers isn't their athletic abilities (though impressive); it's their vision, their ability to anticipate the game, that stands out to me. These players weren't only goal scorers; they created goals for others; they made their teammates better. Be grateful that we were able to see Pele, Maradona, Platini, Zidane play. Who will be the next "great one"? To be honest, I don't think he's playing anywhere in any league today. The truly great ones are few and far between.Good point... In fact, I think we were blessed to have 2 of the best players ever (Platini & ZZ).... The 1982's WC will always be a painful memory for me... I think we should have defeat germany... Then, we would have had our chance against Italy in the final...
Y2c is right too... You always have to think about the future of your team... Our current trouble is that none of our coaches (Lemerre & Santini) thought about this... They just live with the team that Aimé Jacquet built... It's not all about ZZ... Almost all the players who won the WC are gone now... And some retirement hurted us... Sure, ZZ won't still play for a long time but he will help us to make a transition and help to develop the young players... The french team was not so bad, but obviously they had a lack of experience without ZZ, Makelele & Thuram...
I think a mix with young & old players is good...

And of course, ZZ is ZZ... Just like Elway for the Broncos... As far as he can play I wish he would play for us... After the previous WC, I guess he'll retire... then, I think we will be more able to play without him though it will be difficult anyway.

[alan]

ahem none of this matter becuase ireland are going to win the world cup

comeeeeeeeee onnnnnnnnn you boys in green,come on you boys in green come on you boys in green[/COLOR]

[Sevenis7]

I actually was rooting for Ireland last WC what w/all the drama w/Roy Keene being kicked off the squad and all. I'm glad they did pretty well. I hate it when one player thinks he's bigger than the whole team. So, how do you think Ireland will fair? Are you guys going to qualify? Who's on the squad that we should keep our eyes on? I know there was Robbie Keene but his star has dimmed ever since returning from Italy.

[alan]

look out for duff and andy reid. i think we can get to the quater finals,by the way the majority of irish people supported roy keane he did what any captain should and said what needed to be said,they didnt even have balls or water bottles when they got to there trainning camp,all the facillities where a joke,thanks for supporting ireland and keep it up :cheers:

[frenchfan]

ahem none of this matter becuase ireland are going to win the world cup

comeeeeeeeee onnnnnnnnn you boys in green,come on you boys in green come on you boys in green[/COLOR]LOL... See you soon Alan... I'm more confident now with Zidane, Thuram & Makelele come backs... But honestly, it will be a tough game... Ireland is a good team and will play at home... Now, I also think France have the talent to defeat you though... But we'll have to play very well... I'm dying to see this game...

What's your point now ? Are you more or less confident ?

ps : that's funny because I think we have hijacked Booher's thread... :D ... though we are talking about WC anyway... ;)

[alan]

im still confident,lansdowne road is an extreamly hard venue for opposition teams to win at,



p.s. sorry booher

[Booher]

Mexico goes down next weekend.

[Den21-Bal19]

With 3 games left to play in European Group Six, England have gone top by a point from Poland, who play Austria later tonight. The group is basically a 3 horse race, with either England, Poland or Austria still in contention to win the group, with the 2 other sides competeing for a playoff space. Wales, Northern Ireland & Azerbaijan already eliminated. Poland visit England for the final group match.

Not a brilliant performance today by the England side, Lampard and Joe Cole were very poor, and Rooney is too indisciplined to play as a loan striker, he likes to, and is best when. he drops deep and comes looking for the ball. Very much a case of job done, rather than anything special today.

Live update, Scotland currently lead Italy by a 13th minute Kenny Miller goal at Hampden Park, with less than half an hour to play.

[y2cragie]

Personally i hate the 4-5-1 formation. It lacks the nessicary attack possibilities and shows Ericsons unwillingness to attack but rather keep hold of the ball and hope for the best. The 4-4-2 was always much better. Owen and Rooney up front.

[Jaws]

It was a dull game. With the players England have they should be blowing other teams off the field. They just seem to lack a bit of spirit and adventure IMO. They have a team which on paper are capable of winning the World Cup but I doubt whether Mr "Iceman" Ericksson (although he has an impeccable record with England at competitive level ) is the man to inspire them to do so.

Although saying that perhaps boring football is the best way to win a championship. It worked for Greece at the Euros. :ugh:

[Den21-Bal19]

Personally i hate the 4-5-1 formation. It lacks the nessicary attack possibilities and shows Ericsons unwillingness to attack but rather keep hold of the ball and hope for the best. The 4-4-2 was always much better. Owen and Rooney up front.

I don't mind the 4-5-1 as such, but we don't have the players to utilise it properly. Joe Cole isn't a wide man, and frequently leaves his full back unprotected. SWeep can do the job on the right, and to be honest he should replace Golden Balls on the right anyway.

Rooney isn't the right option to play the loan striker, he likes to drop deep to pick the ball of the midfield. That works fine when he's playing off a striker like Owen, but it's of no use when he IS the striker.

Problem with the 4-4-2 is that I just don't think that Gerrard & Lampard can play together, Ericsson needs to play one or the other. As they are pretty similar in terms of passing and goal scoring ability (Lumpard's advantage in goals being down to Stevie missing 2 months of last season), I' d have to be a biased Kopite and go with Gerrard as he's got a better 'engine' and can actually tackle. The only way to play them is with a deep holding midfielder in a central 3, but since a holding midfielder needs to be able to tackle, counting Beckham out.

Golden Balls has done very little for England since the Turkey game at the Pit 4 years ago, and as I said earlier should be replaced by SWeeP.

Left-hand side of the midfield remains a problem, Downing of Boro could be the answer, but I think he's going to miss a large chunk of this season through injury.

I think Ericsson needs to have a radical rethink in his approach and formation. The strength of the England setup at the moment is the centre of defence and the centre of the midfield. That being the case, we should be playing a 3-5-2:


----------------------Robinson---------------------------

--------Carra----------Terry----------Ferdinand-------

---SWeeP--Lampard--Carrick--Gerrard--A. Cole---

----------------Owen----------Rooney------------------

with Carrick (or Hargreave or Parker) playing as the holding midfielder, Lampard & Gerrard having the freedom to join the strikers and allowing Rooney to drop deep to pick the ball up.

BTW, bad luck Scotland, shame you couldn't hold out for the win it sounded like you deserved.

[Den21-Bal19]

It was a dull game. With the players England have they should be blowing other teams off the field. They just seem to lack a bit of spirit and adventure IMO. They have a team which on paper are capable of winning the World Cup but I doubt whether Mr "Iceman" Ericksson (although he has an impeccable record with England at competitive level ) is the man to inspire them to do so.

Although saying that perhaps boring football is the best way to win a championship. It worked for Greece at the Euros. :ugh:

I was stuck at work, listening to the game on the radio. Good job really I'd have been well annoyed if I 'd wasted money going to the pub to watch it if it was as poor as it sounded.

I hope that you're not doubting Sven's passion. By all accounts that's one thing he's got plenty of ;)

Hopefully the Greece thing was a one of. Whilst great for football that any country CAN win a major tournament, their style of football isn't the brand that I want to see being succesful.

[Jaws]

I don't mind the 4-5-1 as such, but we don't have the players to utilise it properly. Joe Cole isn't a wide man, and frequently leaves his full back unprotected. SWeep can do the job on the right, and to be honest he should replace Golden Balls on the right anyway.

Rooney isn't the right option to play the loan striker, he likes to drop deep to pick the ball of the midfield. That works fine when he's playing off a striker like Owen, but it's of no use when he IS the striker.

Problem with the 4-4-2 is that I just don't think that Gerrard & Lampard can play together, Ericsson needs to play one or the other. As they are pretty similar in terms of passing and goal scoring ability (Lumpard's advantage in goals being down to Stevie missing 2 months of last season), I' d have to be a biased Kopite and go with Gerrard as he's got a better 'engine' and can actually tackle. The only way to play them is with a deep holding midfielder in a central 3, but since a holding midfielder needs to be able to tackle, counting Beckham out.

Golden Balls has done very little for England since the Turkey game at the Pit 4 years ago, and as I said earlier should be replaced by SWeeP.

Left-hand side of the midfield remains a problem, Downing of Boro could be the answer, but I think he's going to miss a large chunk of this season through injury.

I think Ericsson needs to have a radical rethink in his approach and formation. The strength of the England setup at the moment is the centre of defence and the centre of the midfield. That being the case, we should be playing a 3-5-2:


----------------------Robinson---------------------------

--------Carra----------Terry----------Ferdinand-------

---SWeeP--Lampard--Carrick--Gerrard--A. Cole---

----------------Owen----------Rooney------------------

with Carrick (or Hargreave or Parker) playing as the holding midfielder, Lampard & Gerrard having the freedom to join the strikers and allowing Rooney to drop deep to pick the ball up.

BTW, bad luck Scotland, shame you couldn't hold out for the win it sounded like you deserved.

I propose you should take over as England manager and let Sven devote his whole time to his other passions! :beer:

[alan]

you guys wana here a funny football story,


this is in noway a slanderous attack on any player of the republic of ireland soccer team,its is merely a story(gota cover my ground)



well anyways my sister lives in dublin and last nite she told me she saw at least 10 members of the squad getting absoulutly hammerd just 4 days before a major international,funney heh :heh:



i once again fully insure that this is merly speculation ;)

[Den21-Bal19]

I propose you should take over as England manager and let Sven devote his whole time to his other passions! :beer:

£4million a year to run the England side for about 10-12 games a season, and living the life of Riley with complimentary tickets to whichever games I fancy?


Nah, I couldn't live with a job like that.............................................. ........








Could I? :D

[Jaws]

£4million a year to run the England side for about 10-12 games a season, and living the life of Riley with complimentary tickets to whichever games I fancy?


Nah, I couldn't live with a job like that.............................................. ........








Could I? :D

Come on admit it - you want Rafa's job really don't you?

[Jaws]

you guys wana here a funny football story,


this is in noway a slanderous attack on any player of the republic of ireland soccer team,its is merely a story(gota cover my ground)



well anyways my sister lives in dublin and last nite she told me she saw at least 10 members of the squad getting absoulutly hammerd just 4 days before a major international,funney



i once again fully insure that this is merly speculation

Only the Irish! :D :beer: They better hope there's no drug testing before the game on Wednesday or they'll all test positive for Guinness! :laugh:

[Den21-Bal19]

In additional European qualification news, England's lead at the top of Group six lasted around 4 1/2 hours as Poland beat Austria 3-2, virtually ending Austria's chances of automatic qualification. Poland lead the group by a point, although they've played a game more than England and have to visit our house in the last qualifier.

Liverpool's Djibril Cisse scored twice for France in their 3-0 win over the Faroe Islands to keep them in the hunt for qualification. Should make Wednesday's game against the Irish on Wednesday night a little tastier.

[Jaws]

In additional European qualification news, England's lead at the top of Group six lasted around 4 1/2 hours as Poland beat Austria 3-2, virtually ending Austria's chances of automatic qualification. Poland lead the group by a point, although they've played a game more than England and have to visit our house in the last qualifier.

Liverpool's Djibril Cisse scored twice for France in their 3-0 win over the Faroe Islands to keep them in the hunt for qualification. Should make Wednesday's game against the Irish on Wednesday night a little tastier.

I hope Djibril is hitting a good vein of form and that it continues at club level.

[Den21-Bal19]

I hope Djibril is hitting a good vein of form and that it continues at club level.

I agree. The kid obviously wants to play for Liverpool, he even got married during the summer in a red suit, and he's got talent. Plus, in a strange way , I think his injury last season could end up being a good thing. Firstly he's had a year to get used to life in England, and secondly , if he adopts the attitude that every game he plays is a bonus and plays like that it will take a lot of pressure off him.


Come on admit it - you want Rafa's job really don't you?

I think you're after an agent's fee, aren't you :D

[Jaws]

I agree. The kid obviously wants to play for Liverpool, he even got married during the summer in a red suit, and he's got talent. Plus, in a strange way , I think his injury last season could end up being a good thing. Firstly he's had a year to get used to life in England, and secondly , if he adopts the attitude that every game he plays is a bonus and plays like that it will take a lot of pressure off him.




I think you're after an agent's fee, aren't you :D

I agree that the injury could well turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

30% fee ok? ;) :D

[Booher]

Usa vs Mexico tonight....wcc......bullcrap only aired on univision and espn classic?....you have got to be kidding me.....this will make the last two times the us clinched a bith in the wc I missed the game...The last was the day we started the war in afghanistan so they preemted the game ....ugh...Man I made a million nasty phone calls to the local station that day. Looks like I use the ussoccer.com matchtracker tonight.

[Booher]

Usa has qualified for the 2006 world cup after a 2 - 0 defeat of mexico.....This better once and for all drop mexico dehind the usa on the fifa rankings....Oh yea usa took the lead in the concacaf wcc standings......GO USA!

[Jaws]

Usa has qualified for the 2006 world cup after a 2 - 0 defeat of mexico.....This better once and for all drop mexico dehind the usa on the fifa rankings....Oh yea usa took the lead in the concacaf wcc standings......GO USA!

Good news! Congrats :beer:

[Den21-Bal19]

I agree that the injury could well turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

30% fee ok?

Damn, I always thought agents were Sharks :D

Congrats to Booher & the rest on qualifying for the World Cup.


See you there :beer:

[Jaws]

Damn, I always thought agents were Sharks :D

Lol yeah didn't you know my full name is Jaws Rosenhaus? :goofy:

[Den21-Bal19]

Lol yeah didn't you know my full name is Jaws Rosenhaus? :goofy:

Begone, Evil One :P

[Jaws]

Begone, Evil One :P

I'm a baddie through and through! Seen my profile pic? I think it's quite a good photo of me! :goofy:

[Den21-Bal19]

I'm a baddie through and through! Seen my profile pic? I think it's quite a good photo of me! :goofy:

Is that you on TV tonight? Which of the celebs do you fancy taking a chunk out of?

[Sevenis7]

Usa vs Mexico tonight....wcc......bullcrap only aired on univision and espn classic.

Luckily, I speak Spanish so I was able to watch the game on Telemundo. I don't know if that's a good thing though, as the commnetators are decidely anti-American. They NEVER give USA credit for being a legitimate soccer nation, so it's always rewarding to see them get their comeuppance.

On a sadder note: I'm Guatemalan, so I was crushed to find out that they lost to Trinidad & Tobaggo when they were winning 2-1 in the 89th minute. How can you give up 2 goals in the span of 5 minutes?!? They don't deserve to make the WC playing like that!

[chickennob2]

Im really not an avid follower of soccer, but after making the WC, it looks like this year is gonna be like last year for me...

heres to being up at 4 in the mornign to watch a soccer game :beer:

[frenchfan]

Luckily, I speak Spanish so I was able to watch the game on Telemundo. I don't know if that's a good thing though, as the commnetators are decidely anti-American. They NEVER give USA credit for being a legitimate soccer nation, so it's always rewarding to see them get their comeuppance.That sucks... USA is may be not Brasil but they deserve a lot of respect... US have improved though I still believe 2006 will be too early for them... European teams & teams like Brasil / Argentina are still better IMO...
Now, playing against USA is not an easy game anymore for sure...
Plus, I think that you can support your team but you also have to give credit to the opponent when he's better... I support French team but I'm man enough to say that we were bad or the opponent were too good when we loose...

BTW, congrats for making the CL... :beer:
I hope to see you there. It won't be easy for France... We have a tough game on wednesday against Ireland...

[Booher]

Im really not an avid follower of soccer, but after making the WC, it looks like this year is gonna be like last year for me...

heres to being up at 4 in the mornign to watch a soccer game :beer:

It won't be like that...that was the cup in korea/japan.......The games will be on in the mornings and afternoons here.....similar to the cups in france and italy.

[alan]

well i have some bad news and some good news

the bad news:well unfortunatly ireland have gone down to france 1-0 and with it our aspiirations of a world cup place :ugh: (im nott to upset though as soccers like 23rd on my favorite sports list)

the good news: northern ireland WON 1-0 against wait for it ................england(embaressing

[y2cragie]

I told you, Sven was scared of attacking. He can pretty much kiss his job goodbye.

[Booher]

Usa vs. Guatamala tonight and for the us the game is meaningless. :D

[Booher]

cmon espn turn off the damn baseball game in extra innings.....

[Booher]

cmon espn turn off the damn baseball game in extra innings.....


Thanks alot espn.....25 minutes missed.

[frenchfan]

well i have some bad news and some good news

the bad news:well unfortunatly ireland have gone down to france 1-0 and with it our aspiirations of a world cup place (im nott to upset though as soccers like 23rd on my favorite sports list)

the good news: northern ireland WON 1-0 against wait for it ................england(embaressingDidn't I warn you my Irish friend ;) ... LOL
Well, honestly, it's was a tough game decided by the genius of some players... We played like Italy : defense, we controled the ball and we didn't need to have many oppurtunities to score...
I really think that 2 good teams played yesterday but the difference was made by some great players.... If Henry or Zidane have played for Ireland, I guess you would have won...
But the CP is for me... :D
:beer:

ps : don't stop to hope... You can beat Swizterland... And pray that we beat them to let you finish 2nd of teh group...

[Sevenis7]

It's a sad day for Guatemala when they can't beat USA's "B" team IN GUATEMALA. Look's like they won't even make it to the replay round against Asia's 3rd place. Pathetic.

[Den21-Bal19]

I told you, Sven was scared of attacking. He can pretty much kiss his job goodbye.


I don't think that the FA can afford to pay him off to be honest.

That has to been the most embarrasingly lame performance that I've ever seen from an England side, and I've seen some $h!te over the years :mad:

[y2cragie]

I don't think that the FA can afford to pay him off to be honest.

That has to been the most embarrasingly lame performance that I've ever seen from an England side, and I've seen some $h!te over the years :mad:
If England fail to make the world cup. And lets face it, if they cant beat northern ireland what chance will they stand against a good team. The FA wont have to worry about paying him off, he wont get out of the country alive. :D

[Den21-Bal19]

If England fail to make the world cup. And lets face it, if they cant beat northern ireland what chance will they stand against a good team. The FA wont have to worry about paying him off, he wont get out of the country alive. :D

Good job the World Cup's in Germany then :goofy:

I think he'll probably see out the World Cup and go regardless of who England fair in the tournament.

Looking at the tables, England need a draw out of their last two games to get a playoff, and two wins will see England qualify automatically. The one thing that last night's game has cost us is the chance at being one of the two runner-ups with the best record, which is also worth an automatic qualification slot.

Although it's at club level, I remember Liverpool putting in a couple of very poor performances against AK Grazer in last season's Champions League qualifiers. We won the away leg 2-0 thanks to a superb performance from Stevie G, then we lost the 2nd leg 1-0 at home. In the scheme of things, it didn't matter as we won the title and Graz were the only team to beat us at home in last season's CL. Most fans will probably scratch their head if you asked them what that result was now.

Northern Ireland & Wales are two teams with players that are used to an English style of game, and to be honest the games were their cup finals. If the players & Ericsson get their acts together and put in a good performance next summer then these two game will be forgotten.

If & when Sven goes, who do you think will(or would like to) replace him?

[y2cragie]

I honestly wouldn't like to guess on a replacement. I dont keep up with that side of football, and would have to ask my uncle.
I think if Sven just allowed his players the chance to play to their potential then it would be so much differance. He had them playing the Denmark game basically to avoid wearing them out, ok thats fine its a friendly, embarressing yes but Denmark have always been a good team, and in the end the players came out of it in one piece. That game against NI, the players looked sloppy undisciplined and basically playing like a bunch of schoolboys at lunchtime. I mean Wayne Rooney still hasn't learned a thing, he's got great talent, one of the best strikers of the ball i have ever seen, but he cant control his temper, so he is now out of a game that we needed him in. I can assure you he doesn't get away with that at Man Utd. Fergie would have had his pay check torn up and pulled him off the pitch right away.

[Den21-Bal19]

I honestly wouldn't like to guess on a replacement. I dont keep up with that side of football, and would have to ask my uncle.
I think if Sven just allowed his players the chance to play to their potential then it would be so much differance. He had them playing the Denmark game basically to avoid wearing them out, ok thats fine its a friendly, embarressing yes but Denmark have always been a good team, and in the end the players came out of it in one piece. That game against NI, the players looked sloppy undisciplined and basically playing like a bunch of schoolboys at lunchtime. I mean Wayne Rooney still hasn't learned a thing, he's got great talent, one of the best strikers of the ball i have ever seen, but he cant control his temper, so he is now out of a game that we needed him in. I can assure you he doesn't get away with that at Man Utd. Fergie would have had his pay check torn up and pulled him off the pitch right away.

The big problem with perspective replacements is that there aren't any English managers with true top flight experience. The top placed English manager last season was Sam Allerdyce, who finished 6th with Bolton.

And as for Rooney, he really reminds me of Gazza. All the skill in the world, but a few sandwiches short of the picnic. You can see him doing exactly the same as Gazza in the '91 cup final, getting that riled that he puts in a reckless challenge and coming away with with a career threatening injury.

[Den21-Bal19]

Good news for Frenchie & bad new for Alan and the other Irish fans from Anfielsd yesterday.

A challenge late in the game between Liverpool's Luis Garcia & Manure's Roy Keane has left the Irish skipper with a broken third metatarsal in his left foot.

Keane is expected to miss up to 2 months, and is likely to miss Ireland's games against Cyprus & Switzerland.

Definitely improves the French chances of qualifying.

[Sevenis7]

Watching Mexico v. Guatemala on Telemundo. Guatemala got off to a great start scoring in the first 2 minutes off of a nervous Mexican defense (fielding a lot of new players). Guatemala got too comfortable. I don't know if they were expecting to hold on for 88 minutes, but Mexico tied it up about minute 20. Bad marking on Guatemala's fullbacks (2 defenders went to mark the same forward leaving the other forward unguarded= easy goal).

Update given about minute 30: Costa Rica 1- USA 0. This was greeted by cheers from the Mexican crowd.

In other WC news: Nigeria and Cameroon don't qualify!

I better get back to the game, Guatemala hit the post....

[Jaws]

Finally Wales win a World Cup Qualifying game, and very entertaining it was too with goals from Simon Davies, Carl Robinson and the captain Ryan Giggs who had a magnificent game.

N. Ireland knocked two in after the half time break but Wales hung on to claim a well deserved win, and a sigh of relief from us all. At last we're off the bottom of the group. Fifth sounds much better.

Congrats to England too! :mad: ;)

[Den21-Bal19]

Finally Wales win a World Cup Qualifying game, and very entertaining it was too with goals from Simon Davies, Carl Robinson and the captain Ryan Giggs who had a magnificent game.

N. Ireland knocked two in after the half time break but Wales hung on to claim a well deserved win, and a sigh of relief from us all. At last we're off the bottom of the group. Fifth sounds much better.

Congrats to England too! :mad:

Well that's a relief, although it came at a cost - Beckham stupidly suspended and Stevie G injured and out for the next 2-3 weeks.

A quick look at the European qualification, shows 8 qualifiers decided: Germany as hosts along with Ukraine, Netherlands, Poland, England, Croatia, Italy and Portugal. 6 qualification places have yet to be decided.

The European format is an odd one due to some qualification groups having six nations, whilst others have seven. In the case of the groups with seven sides, the results agianst the seventh place club will be ignored for final results purposes. The eight group winners go through, along with the two 2nd place sides with the best points tally. The remaining six 2nd place sides will be drawn for a home & away qualifier, with the three winners going through.

So quickly, by group:

Group 1: The Dutch have qualified as group winners, with Romania and the Czech Republic fighting for 2nd place. The Romanians have completed their matches though, so any result by the Czech's in their last game will see them through.

Group 2: Ukraine have already won the group. To guarantee the play-off spot, Denmark must beat Kazakhstan away on Wednesday and hope Turkey drop points in Albania. A draw could also be enough if Turkey lose and European champions Greece fail to beat Georgia.

Group 3: - Portugal have already qualified, Russia and Slovakia plat a winner takes all match on Wednesday night.

Group 4: Possibly the most contested group, Isreal, having already played their last game, are a point ahead of Switzerland and France, with the Irish back by a further point. All three have a game left to play, with France having to play Cyprus while Switzerland and Ireland square off on Wednesday night.

Group 5: Italy have qualified as group winners, Norway only need a point, or a failure by Slovenia to beat Scotland, to qualify as runners up.

Group 6: Both England and Poland have qualified, with only the Group winner to be decided in Manchester on Wednesday night. An England win sees them through as Group winners, anything else and they will automatically qualify as one of the two best 2nd place sides.

Group 7: Anything can happen with Serbia & Montenegro (19pts), Spain (17pts) and Bosnia-Herzegovina (16pts) all vying for the top two spots. Serbia & Bosnia play off, whilst only a MAJOR upset against San Marino can stop Spain from qualifying.

Group 8: Croatia are already guaranteed one of the two best runners up spaces, but a draw on Wednesday against Hungary will gguarantee them top spot. A Hungary win would leave the door open for Sweden to sneak through as group winners, if they can beat Iceland.

And there you have it. :D

[Jaws]

Well that's a relief, although it came at a cost - Beckham stupidly suspended and Stevie G injured and out for the next 2-3 weeks.

A quick look at the European qualification, shows 8 qualifiers decided: Germany as hosts along with Ukraine, Netherlands, Poland, England, Croatia, Italy and Portugal. 6 qualification places have yet to be decided.

The European format is an odd one due to some qualification groups having six nations, whilst others have seven. In the case of the groups with seven sides, the results agianst the seventh place club will be ignored for final results purposes. The eight group winners go through, along with the two 2nd place sides with the best points tally. The remaining six 2nd place sides will be drawn for a home & away qualifier, with the three winners going through.

So quickly, by group:

Group 1: The Dutch have qualified as group winners, with Romania and the Czech Republic fighting for 2nd place. The Romanians have completed their matches though, so any result by the Czech's in their last game will see them through.

Group 2: Ukraine have already won the group. To guarantee the play-off spot, Denmark must beat Kazakhstan away on Wednesday and hope Turkey drop points in Albania. A draw could also be enough if Turkey lose and European champions Greece fail to beat Georgia.

Group 3: - Portugal have already qualified, Russia and Slovakia plat a winner takes all match on Wednesday night.

Group 4: Possibly the most contested group, Isreal, having already played their last game, are a point ahead of Switzerland and France, with the Irish back by a further point. All three have a game left to play, with France having to play Cyprus while Switzerland and Ireland square off on Wednesday night.

Group 5: Italy have qualified as group winners, Norway only need a point, or a failure by Slovenia to beat Scotland, to qualify as runners up.

Group 6: Both England and Poland have qualified, with only the Group winner to be decided in Manchester on Wednesday night. An England win sees them through as Group winners, anything else and they will automatically qualify as one of the two best 2nd place sides.

Group 7: Anything can happen with Serbia & Montenegro (19pts), Spain (17pts) and Bosnia-Herzegovina (16pts) all vying for the top two spots. Serbia & Bosnia play off, whilst only a MAJOR upset against San Marino can stop Spain from qualifying.

Group 8: Croatia are already guaranteed one of the two best runners up spaces, but a draw on Wednesday against Hungary will gguarantee them top spot. A Hungary win would leave the door open for Sweden to sneak through as group winners, if they can beat Iceland.

And there you have it. :D

So it's all eyes on Group 4 really for Wednesday night to see what happens there. As you say, qualifying should be a formality for Spain in Group Seven barring a big upset. I've been surprised at how good Israel have been. Don't they have a striker playing for West Ham whose in pretty good form at the moment?

That second yellow for Beckham was a dubious decision. That other guy he supposedly fouled looked to have dived.

Really bad news about Stevie G. We really need him with Liverpool struggling in the league. I guess I'll have to drop him from my fantasy football team for a while too seeing as he's going to be out for a few weeks. I'll probably end up taking Lampard ( :ugh: ) in his place!!! I heard Gallas was talking about leaving Chelsea at the end of the season. For the sake of the game, it would be nice to see a few quality players depart, the Chavs are just starting to look ominously good at the moment.

Anyway back to the World Cup. There are some interesting qualifiers from the Africa group with Angola, Ivory Coast, Togo, Ghana and Tunisia going through and some big names such as Cameroon and Nigeria missing out.

Bad luck U.S.A on getting whipped by Costa Rica Saturday, but as you're already through - I guess you aren't worried - and rightly so!

Good luck to all nations who have made it through, and to those whose fate is hanging by the thread, stock up the Drinks Cabinet, you may have some heartattack inducing action ahead of you.

[Den21-Bal19]

So it's all eyes on Group 4 really for Wednesday night to see what happens there. As you say, qualifying should be a formality for Spain in Group Seven barring a big upset. I've been surprised at how good Israel have been. Don't they have a striker playing for West Ham whose in pretty good form at the moment?

That second yellow for Beckham was a dubious decision. That other guy he supposedly fouled looked to have dived.

Really bad news about Stevie G. We really need him with Liverpool struggling in the league. I guess I'll have to drop him from my fantasy football team for a while too seeing as he's going to be out for a few weeks. I'll probably end up taking Lampard ( :ugh: ) in his place!!! I heard Gallas was talking about leaving Chelsea at the end of the season. For the sake of the game, it would be nice to see a few quality players depart, the Chavs are just starting to look ominously good at the moment.

Anyway back to the World Cup. There are some interesting qualifiers from the Africa group with Angola, Ivory Coast, Togo, Ghana and Tunisia going through and some big names such as Cameroon and Nigeria missing out.

Bad luck U.S.A on getting whipped by Costa Rica Saturday, but as you're already through - I guess you aren't worried - and rightly so!

Good luck to all nations who have made it through, and to those whose fate is hanging by the thread, stock up the Drinks Cabinet, you may have some heartattack inducing action ahead of you.

I agree with the second yellow being dubious, but if I remember right Beckham had put in a bad challenge, on the same guy, between the first booking and the second anyway.

As for Gerrard, yeah we'll miss him, but hopefully someone can step up, be it Kewell or Alonso or whomever. With the fantasy football, it depends on which version you play. Mine only has limited subs, so it's not worth dropping him for a couple of weeks.

BTW, Gallas has been linked with a possible move to Liverpool, or AC Milan. What is intersting is that a couple of weeks back, Gallas was actually talking about buying out the remaining year on his contract.

I work with a guy from the Cameroon, he's going to be a bit peeved on Monday.

[Jaws]

I agree with the second yellow being dubious, but if I remember right Beckham had put in a bad challenge, on the same guy, between the first booking and the second anyway.

As for Gerrard, yeah we'll miss him, but hopefully someone can step up, be it Kewell or Alonso or whomever. With the fantasy football, it depends on which version you play. Mine only has limited subs, so it's not worth dropping him for a couple of weeks.

BTW, Gallas has been linked with a possible move to Liverpool, or AC Milan. What is intersting is that a couple of weeks back, Gallas was actually talking about buying out the remaining year on his contract.

I work with a guy from the Cameroon, he's going to be a bit peeved on Monday.

I'm with the Daily Telegraph fantasy football and there's no subs at all. So if a player misses a few games, I miss out on quite a few points. I've still got a good number of transfers left, and am doing quite well this month so I don't want to miss out. I'll hang on a few days before deciding though.

Gallas to Liverpool! Now I'd like that. :D

[Den21-Bal19]

I'm with the Daily Telegraph fantasy football and there's no subs at all. So if a player misses a few games, I miss out on quite a few points. I've still got a good number of transfers left, and am doing quite well this month so I don't want to miss out. I'll hang on a few days before deciding though.

Gallas to Liverpool! Now I'd like that. :D

I do the Times, I think I've got 6 transfers left before Xmas, so I'll leave Gerrard for a bit.

I must admit, I like the idea of Gallas, he's different enough that he could play alongside either Carra or Sami, and he's seriously quick. I also like that he's already experienced in the Premiership.

[Jaws]

I do the Times, I think I've got 6 transfers left before Xmas, so I'll leave Gerrard for a bit.

I must admit, I like the idea of Gallas, he's different enough that he could play alongside either Carra or Sami, and he's seriously quick. I also like that he's already experienced in the Premiership.

Same feelings here too, and I like a bit of French! ;)

Do you think he'd seriously consider a move?

We'd have to pick up and improve in the league surely for him to consider a move.

[Den21-Bal19]

Same feelings here too, and I like a bit of French! ;)

Do you think he'd seriously consider a move?

We'd have to pick up and improve in the league surely for him to consider a move.

Does Mr. Foxworth know of your proclivities towards the French?

We would have to improve in the league, that's one thing that's been a bit disappointing, I don't think we've traded enough on the European Champions.

[Jaws]

Does Mr. Foxworth know of your proclivities towards the French?

We would have to improve in the league, that's one thing that's been a bit disappointing, I don't think we've traded enough on the European Champions.

:eek:

Perhaps I better delete my post. If he finds out I may be Mrs J. D.Vorce sooner than you think!

[frenchfan]

Perhaps I better delete my post. If he finds out I may be Mrs J. D.Vorce sooner than you think!:laugh:

Sorry Sharkie, but there is nothing to do against your French addiction... LOL... No girlies can resist to us... :eek:
We call that the wink wink nudge nudge effect... ROFL

...

j/k


BTW, Den, congrats for your qualifying... France was not able to do the same... We were even lucky to have a tie against Swizterland... (thanks to a Reds player BTW)... We really sucked this last game... We were close to make a hold-up...
I hope my UK's friends will help us on wednesday... (Alan, where are you ??? Stand up my Irish friends and beat the Swizterland please)...

Jaws... I think you're waiting for the 6 nations now... :D

[Den21-Bal19]

BTW, Den, congrats for your qualifying... France was not able to do the same... We were even lucky to have a tie against Swizterland... (thanks to a Reds player BTW)... We really sucked this last game... We were close to make a hold-up...
I hope my UK's friends will help us on wednesday... (Alan, where are you ??? Stand up my Irish friends and beat the Swizterland please)...

Jaws... I think you're waiting for the 6 nations now... :D

Best of luck to both France & Ireland on Wednesday night, hopefully both should go through, although I think France have the easier task. Is a draw good enough the Swiss/Irish game ends in a draw?

Problem for the Welsh with the six nations is that everyone will be gunning for them.

[Jaws]

Problem for the Welsh with the six nations is that everyone will be gunning for them.

You're right. I'm not so confident. It will be a really tough task this time round.
I'm still enjoying this year's success right now though, and haven't thought too far ahead.

[frenchfan]

Best of luck to both France & Ireland on Wednesday night, hopefully both should go through, although I think France have the easier task. Is a draw good enough the Swiss/Irish game ends in a draw?

Problem for the Welsh with the six nations is that everyone will be gunning for them.Well, if we win (and I expect nothing else than a victory over Chypre !!! If not, we would have nothing to do at the World Cup... no offense for Chypre... You have to respect all teams, but I think we are really better than them)
all results but a Swiss victory would be good for us... We need a draw or an Irish victory to be qualified...


I think as you that we have the easier task... But Swiss impressed me (but we were also very bad too...) ... Now, I also think that playing in Ireland is not an easy task...

Wait & see...

[scottie]

Well my team are not going to be in the World Cup next year ..... we should have gotten rid of the last manager a L-O-T quicker I think ....... the current one has done a good job but last Saturdays result ...... shocking!!

[Jaws]

Well my team are not going to be in the World Cup next year ..... we should have gotten rid of the last manager a L-O-T quicker I think ....... the current one has done a good job but last Saturdays result ...... shocking!!

We'll just have to set up an alternative competition for the teams that have not qualified. I have to say that the Scottish team looked quite promising at times during this qualification campaign, but just ran out of steam I guess. An improvement over their European Championship qualification attempts though would you say?

The Welsh just haven't recovered after going unbeaten and finding themselves top of their group after four games at the Euros. We then entered our worst slump and failed to qualify and we're still feeling the aftereffects. There were some signs of hope over the weekend though and we were just happy to get off the bottom of the table for the first time after the victory over the Northern Irish.

Thanks heavens for Rugby I say. A Grand Slam proved to be the best medicine possible to deal with the ineptitude of our soccer team.

[scottie]

To be honest, I dont know if I want Scotland to qualify for the Euro Championships cos we never do well enough to qualify for the next stage and only end up embarressing ourselves :eek: !!!

At least you had the Grand Slam, we couldnt even use that for some glory!!!!!

[finbronco]

Well, no Euro games for Finland either or World cup. Every time new qualifiying games start, everybody in Finland hopes or knows that we can make it..... yeah right. What a dissapointment every time. Hmmm... maby some day when we have field full of players like Litmanen and Hyypiä.

And for the Scottie. Generaly people here in Finland are hopeing for you guys. Dont know why, but finnish people like all of the countrys in your island. :beer:

[Jaws]

To be honest, I dont know if I want Scotland to qualify for the Euro Championships cos we never do well enough to qualify for the next stage and only end up embarressing ourselves :eek: !!!


I can see your point. It's a bit like the Broncos getting to the playoffs and then getting blown off the field by the Colts!!! :mad:

Mind you I'd cut off my right hand just to see Wales qualify for a major soccer tournament. The last time we made it to the Euros was the 1970s I believe, and our last appearance in the World Cup was in the Fifties, before I was even born! :ugh:

[scottie]

our last appearance in the World Cup was in the Fifties, before I was even born! :ugh:
:eek: I think Wales is overdue an appearance in the World Cup just for you!!

[Den21-Bal19]

:eek: I think Wales is overdue an appearance in the World Cup just for you!!

You should hear it in my family! Because my dad's father was Welsh, and he was born in Bridgend, my youngest brother considers himself Welsh, or at least he does when it comes to football & rugby..........................damned fool :D

I'd love to see the Home Nations Championship reinstated, I believe Northern Ireland are actually the reigning champions. Get rid of a few of these stupid friendlies and have some competitive matches.........maybe get the Republic of Ireland & France involved & have a footballing equivalent of the Six Nations

[scottie]

Hmm would rather have a Home Nations Championship than a British Team!!!

Hey hows England doing against Poland???

[Den21-Bal19]

Hmm would rather have a Home Nations Championship than a British Team!!!

Hey hows England doing against Poland???

Definitely don't want a British team, except possibly for the Olympics. Apart from which, the team would probably be England plus Giggs, to be honest.

As for England, 68 minutes played, 1-1, Owen in the 43rd minute, equaliser in 1st half stoppage time by some guy who's name I can't type :goofy:

[Den21-Bal19]

England win 2-1, Lampard with the second, after a pretty good performance to win their qualifying group.

France are pretty well though, currently scraping past Cyprus 4-0, whilst the Irish look like they're going to miss out as they're drawing 0-0 with the Swiss.

[y2cragie]

I'll take it. Should have been 2-0 but once again England showed they still haven't learned its not ok to just sit back and defend as a good team like Poland will have the ball in the back of the net faster than you can blink.

[scottie]

Well typical ....... Scotland lost on Saturday and won 3:0 tonight and it means nothing ....... <sigh>

[Booher]

final usa world cup qualifing game tonight.....usa vs. panama....

[Den21-Bal19]

final usa world cup qualifing game tonight.....usa vs. panama....

Anything riding on it, mate? I know you have qualified, but are panama in with a chance?

[Booher]

Anything riding on it, mate? I know you have qualified, but are panama in with a chance?


nope no chance for panama to make it.

[Sevenis7]

Halftime scores:

Mexico 1- Trinidad & Tobago 1
USA 0- Panama 0

Congratulations to Frenchfan, France is in!

[Sevenis7]

At minute 65:

Mexico 1- Trinidad & Tobago 2
USA 2- Panama 0
Guatemala 1- Costa Rica 1

[frenchfan]

France did it !!!!

Thanks to our Irish friends... And a good last game...

We'll see you in Germany my US friends ! :beer:

[Jaws]

France did it !!!!

Thanks to our Irish friends... And a good last game...

We'll see you in Germany my US friends ! :beer:

Congrats! The tournament wouldn't be the same without the French! :beer:

Wales won their second game in a row too. I hate giving credit to a Manure player, but Giggsy was awesome. Two goals again last night. This is the best form we've seen him in for his country. I hope he can sustain it.

[scottie]

[QUOTE=Jaws]Congrats! The tournament wouldn't be the same without the French!QUOTE]
Ahh the French ...... David Ginola and Eric Cantona ;) :kiss: !!!!!!!!

[Booher]

At minute 65:

Mexico 1- Trinidad & Tobago 2
USA 2- Panama 0
Guatemala 1- Costa Rica 1


usa finishes atop concacaf for the first time..... :D

[y2cragie]

congrats to them. Now the real test starts for all the teams.

[scottie]

Well seeing as my team Scotland never qualified :mad: I will support the USA again!!

[frenchfan]

[QUOTE=Jaws]Congrats! The tournament wouldn't be the same without the French!QUOTE]
Ahh the French ...... David Ginola and Eric Cantona ;) :kiss: !!!!!!!!Thanks sweet girlies...
It was tough but we did it... Now I expect than we'll find a better way of playing... We have only one year to improve...

Scottie... Are you Sharkies's soul sister ??? The same "french" addiction :eek: ROFL...

Sharkie... Gibbs is a great player... I always thought he was a main player for Manure (even when Beckham were playing).... It's sad for you that you don't have much player like him... (I remember also Ian Rush...)..

Den... We'll see you next year... Your idea to have a soccer 6 Nations is great... France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales & Italy... Good deal...

[Jaws]

Thanks sweet girlies...
It was tough but we did it... Now I expect than we'll find a better way of playing... We have only one year to improve...

Scottie... Are you Sharkies's soul sister ??? The same "french" addiction :eek: ROFL...

Sharkie... Gibbs is a great player... I always thought he was a main player for Manure (even when Beckham were playing).... It's sad for you that you don't have much player like him... (I remember also Ian Rush...)..

Den... We'll see you next year... Your idea to have a soccer 6 Nations is great... France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales & Italy... Good deal...

Sharkie and Scottie does have a certain ring to it lol !!! (the female equivalent of the Kray twins, of course!)

[frenchfan]

usa finishes atop concacaf for the first time..... :D :beer: .. COngrats... We'll see you next year my friend... USA has defenitely improved... I guess than can make the 1/8 ... After, it depends on the team you would play...
Though I don't think you'll win this one I don't want to play in the same group as you... USA is now a good soccer team...
I think France will have some problems... We play badly... I only hope we could make the 1/8 ... If only we find a way to play as a group and stop to rely on the talent of some of our players...
It's funny because I think we have at least as much talent as the 1998 or 2000's team... But we struggle in our games...

Anyway, The World Cup will be nice to watch... Brasil is an awesome team... I hope there will be great games...

[Jaws]

What would happen if the U.S did win the whole thing?

Would soccer finally become popular in the States?

[Jared]

What would happen if the U.S did win the whole thing?

Would soccer finally become popular in the States?


Define popular.

It would become MORE popular than it is now.

It may even pass hockey for a bit.

But I just can't see it being more than a temporary novelty if that were to happen.

I love the sport and played it in high school, but I just don't see it working on TV the way viewers and advertisers here are used to.

I can't see it permanently surpassing the big 5 (NFL,NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR).

Not anytime soon anyway.

[Jaws]

Define popular.

It would become MORE popular than it is now.

It may even pass hockey for a bit.

But I just can't see it being more than a temporary novelty if that were to happen.

I love the sport and played it in high school, but I just don't see it working on TV the way viewers and advertisers here are used to.

I can't see it permanently surpassing the big 5 (NFL,NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR).

Not anytime soon anyway.

What I had in mind when using the word popular was challenging the big 5 and getting bigger ratings, more tv coverage etc.

[Den21-Bal19]

Actually , I think that soccer, in a generation or two, could rival the big 5 sports in the US. The biggest advantage soccer has over the big 5, other than baseball, is that it's most basic level it requires a bit of ground and a ball. Not much more than that is required, even as the competition level rises, which makes it a very cheap sport to run.

The trick is, of course, to get kids interested. Another couple of good performances in the World Cup will pique that interest.

And god help the rest of us if you lot do decide to take the game seriously. With the massive population base and the attention to detail that you tend to show.........the rest of us wouldn't get a look in.

BTW, I honestly think '06 & probably 2010 are too early for the US to have a genuine chance of winning the World Cup. When you held it back in '94 I said that I expected the 3rd/4th generation of players to win it. Accepting that a generation of players is around the 5-6 year mark, I still think that 2014/18 is probably the earliest you can seriously contemolate winning it.

[scottie]

Scottie... Are you Sharkies's soul sister ??? The same "french" addiction
Who knows!!! Saw David Ginola on the tv not so long ago (he turned up at a Spurs game) and hubby wasnt happy at wifie drooling all over the tv!!!!!! No idea why ..... :kiss: :O

[scottie]

Sharkie and Scottie does have a certain ring to it lol !!! (the female equivalent of the Kray twins, of course!)
Is that a compliment or an insult?!?!?!! :confused: :P

[Den21-Bal19]

World Cup Playoff Draw:

European Zone:

Spain vs Slovakia
Norway vs Czech Republic
Switzerland vs Turkey.

First leg to be played 12th November, second leg 16th November.

Other playoffs:

Australia vs Uruguay
Bahrain vs Trinidad & Tobago.

My early thoughts would be Spain, Czech Republic, Turkey, Australia and Trinidad & Tobago to qualify.

Best of luck to all involved, see you in Germany :D

[scottie]

I would say the following:- Spain , Czech Republic, Turkey (cos we know what their fans are like), Australia and Trinidad & Tobago

[frenchfan]

Who knows!!! Saw David Ginola on the tv not so long ago (he turned up at a Spurs game) and hubby wasnt happy at wifie drooling all over the tv!!!!!! No idea why ..... :kiss: :OHopefully for your hubbie I guess you won't see me on TV ... ROFL...


OK.. more seriouly (it's a soccer thread or not ? LOL)... My picks are :
Spain - Szech - Swiss (and not SWS .... ;) LOL )...

[scottie]

Hopefully for your hubbie I guess you won't see me on TV ... ROFL
:confused: you have me wondering now!! Explain yourself?!?! Are you saying you look like either Cantona or Ginola?!?!?! :P

[frenchfan]

you have me wondering now!! Explain yourself?!?! Are you saying you look like either Cantona or Ginola?!?!?! What I just can say is that Cantona or Ginola will look ugly if you look at me :eek: :D

Did I see anyone drooling ??? ROFL...

j/k ... No, I'm not so pretentious... I'm just me... But I guess my eyes are as beautiful as Ginola's ones... ;)

ps: is it still a soccer thread ? LOL

[scottie]

What I just can say is that Cantona or Ginola will look ugly if you look at me :eek: :D

Did I see anyone drooling ??? ROFL...

j/k ... No, I'm not so pretentious... I'm just me... But I guess my eyes are as beautiful as Ginola's ones... ;)

ps: is it still a soccer thread ? LOL
I need to see a photo of you and then I will let you know if Eric and David can now be deemed as ugly!!!

No drooling ....... yet!!

Of course its still a football thread, we are talking about Eric and David!!!

[Den21-Bal19]

Today and Wednesday see the last five places for Germany next year filled.........
10 nations wait with baited breath to see if they can make it to the big dance next year.

Australia vs Uruguay
Slovakia vs Spain
Norway vs Czech Republic
Switzerland vs Turkey
Bahrain vs Trinidad & Tobago...........

Anyone here who's playing in the playoffs?

In addition a couple of friendlies of not as England take on Argentina and the USA play a young Scottish side.

[The Dark Knight]

What would happen if the U.S did win the whole thing?

Would soccer finally become popular in the States?


No.

Why?

Because Soccer sucks!!

:laugh:

[Den21-Bal19]

No.

Why?

Because Soccer sucks!!

:laugh:


Now, now, TDK, be nice ;)

[Jaws]

Today and Wednesday see the last five places for Germany next year filled.........
10 nations wait with baited breath to see if they can make it to the big dance next year.

Australia vs Uruguay
Slovakia vs Spain
Norway vs Czech Republic
Switzerland vs Turkey
Bahrain vs Trinidad & Tobago...........

Anyone here who's playing in the playoffs?

In addition a couple of friendlies of not as England take on Argentina and the USA play a young Scottish side.

Who do you fancy to go through out of those?

I'll go with Spain, Turkey and the Czech Republic. No idea with the other two matches though.

[Den21-Bal19]

Who do you fancy to go through out of those?

I'll go with Spain, Turkey and the Czech Republic. No idea with the other two matches though.

I can't really argue with those picks, for the other two games I'd probably have to go for the stronger confederations so it would be Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay to go through........................................... .................................................. ...............











Besides there's got to be at least one Sport the Aussies are crap at, hasn't there? :D

[Jaws]

I can't really argue with those picks, for the other two games I'd probably have to go for the stronger confederations so it would be Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay to go through........................................... .................................................. ...............











Besides there's got to be at least one Sport the Aussies are crap at, hasn't there? :D

Hehe. Have they ever qualified for the WOrld Cup?

[Den21-Bal19]

Hehe. Have they ever qualified for the WOrld Cup?

I honestly can't remember.......as for the bleating that their group should get an automatic qualification, well if they can't beat the 5th best side in South America, surely the competition is better off without them?

[y2cragie]

wow, what a game england argentina was. 3-2 to England. Thats a world class game at its best.

[Den21-Bal19]

That was quite possibly the best friendly game I've seen in years. Both teams went for it from the off, some fantastic play from both sides and they actually treated it as a proper game!

And what an ending :D :beer:

What was the US/Scotland game like?

[Jaws]

That certainly was an exciting game between England and Argentina. A game fit for a World Cup final. Haven't seen a football game played like that for a while.

[Den21-Bal19]

That certainly was an exciting game between England and Argentina. A game fit for a World Cup final. Haven't seen a football game played like that for a while.

That's probably the best England performance since September '01, some game in Germany....................

Not as good as 25/05/05 in Istanbul though :D

As for the competitive matches:

Norway 0-1 Czech Republic........Full time, European Cup Hero Vladimir Smicer with the goal.

Switzerland 1-0 Turkey..........Half time, Phillipe Senderos with the Swiss goal.

Uruguay 1-0 Australia..........Half time, Dario Rodriguez the scorer, Harry Kewell amazingly starts for the Aussies.

Spain vs Slovakia kicks off in about 5 minutes time, Trinidad & Tobago vs Bahrain kicks off at 17:30(Eastern)

[Den21-Bal19]

Final scores for the first round qualifiers:

Norway 0-1 Czech Republic........Full time, European Cup Hero Vladimir Smicer with the goal.

Switzerland 1-0 Turkey..........Full time, Phillipe Senderos & Valon Behrami with the Swiss goals to virtually assure themselves of a spot in Germany

Uruguay 1-0 Australia..........Full time, Dario Rodriguez the scorer, Harry Kewell amazingly starts for the Aussies.

Trinidad & Tobago 1 - Bahrain, Husein Salman scoring first for Bahrain, before Christopher Birchall equalised.

Spain 5-1 Slovakia...........A hattrick for Liverpool's Luis Garca, plus a penalty by Fernando Torres and a strike from Liverpool's Fernando Morientes has sealed Spains place, with a goal from Middlesborough's Szilard Nemeth after halftime that brought the Slovakians back to 2-1.


2nd legs to be played Wednesday night.

[y2cragie]

The Swiss beating Turkey is the only real surprise out of that lot in my opinion.

[Den21-Bal19]

The Swiss beating Turkey is the only real surprise out of that lot in my opinion.

I'm not sure if it's a suprise or not to be honest. At the begining of qualification, maybe, but they played pretty well from what I saw of their qualifiers so I'm not totally suprised they've got a lead going into the 2nd leg, only by the fact that it's two clear goals.







'Course they now have to enter hell

[Bronco_f1]

Watch out for Michael Owen. He is spectacular, I still remember when he started playing in the '98 cup at just 18 years old, he had a bright future. Now he is playing more like himself, and when he wakes up in the game he is unstoppable. I would even dare to say that he plays better than Beckham played at his age

[Jaws]

Watch out for Michael Owen. He is spectacular, I still remember when he started playing in the '98 cup at just 18 years old, he had a bright future. Now he is playing more like himself, and when he wakes up in the game he is unstoppable. I would even dare to say that he plays better than Beckham played at his age

It's good to see him play with a smile on his face again. Him and Rooney are an awesome duo.

[Bronco_f1]

It's good to see him play with a smile on his face again. Him and Rooney are an awesome duo.

England has a great team right now, they can get deep into the World cup playoffs next year.

[Den21-Bal19]

I'm a little late with this due to my laptop requiring intensive care, but the World Cup lineup is now complete, congratulations to Australia, Trinidad & Tobago, Czech Republic, Spain and Switzerland.

Did anyone see what happened in the tunnel between the Swiss and Turks after the game?

The qualified sides:

Africa:Angola, Ivory Coast, Togo, Ghana, Tunisia

Asia:Japan, Iran, Korea Republic, Saudi Arabia

Europe: Germany (Host), Ukraine, Netherlands, Poland, England,Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Serbia and Montenegro, France, Switzerland, Spain, Czech Republic

Northern & Central American & Caribbean: USA, Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago

Oceanian: Australia

South America: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay

Draw for the finals in 9th December, where the teams will be drawn into 8 groups of 4.

[frenchfan]

I'm a little late with this due to my laptop requiring intensive care, but the World Cup lineup is now complete, congratulations to Australia, Trinidad & Tobago, Czech Republic, Spain and Switzerland.

Did anyone see what happened in the tunnel between the Swiss and Turks after the game?

The qualified sides:

Africa:Angola, Ivory Coast, Togo, Ghana, Tunisia

Asia:Japan, Iran, Korea Republic, Saudi Arabia

Europe: Germany (Host), Ukraine, Netherlands, Poland, England,Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Serbia and Montenegro, France, Switzerland, Spain, Czech Republic

Northern & Central American & Caribbean: USA, Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago

Oceanian: Australia

South America: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay

Draw for the finals in 9th December, where the teams will be drawn into 8 groups of 4.About the Swiss/Turkey game, I saw some of the troubles that happened... It is not acceptable... I don't really know what happened, I saw a Swiss player hit a guy and then attacked a player.. But I guess there was some fights before... Then he entered into the tunnel and we didn't have more images...
It's just sport... I can't understand... I hope the FIFA will investigate and punish the guilties...

[Den21-Bal19]

About the Swiss/Turkey game, I saw some of the troubles that happened... It is not acceptable... I don't really know what happened, I saw a Swiss player hit a guy and then attacked a player.. But I guess there was some fights before... Then he entered into the tunnel and we didn't have more images...
It's just sport... I can't understand... I hope the FIFA will investigate and punish the guilties...

How's it going my French friend?

I agree that FIFA should act on this, and to be honest it isn't the first time that there's been trouble involving the Turkish players, it kicked off in the tunnel at half time the last time England played in Turkey, during the Euro 04 qualifiers.

So the Turks have prior, whereas, as far as I am aware, the Swiss have never had any trouble like this before.............must be their famous neutrality :D

[frenchfan]

How's it going my French friend?

I agree that FIFA should act on this, and to be honest it isn't the first time that there's been trouble involving the Turkish players, it kicked off in the tunnel at half time the last time England played in Turkey, during the Euro 04 qualifiers.

So the Turks have prior, whereas, as far as I am aware, the Swiss have never had any trouble like this before.............must be their famous neutrality :DI'm doing alright Den... Thanks... How are you doing too ?

It's true that Turkey is well-known for having such problems about soccer... Now, I don't have many proofs of what happened with Swiss... I hope there will be a solid investigation to find out what really happened and then find the guilties... And of course I expect sanctions... It's not acceptable to see that about sports !
If you want to see some fights, just go to see some boxing !
I can understand the disapointment of the supporters, but I can't accept those acts !
When you like sports, you have to be able to accept to lose...
I remember the 1982's France - Germany... We were defeated (in an ugly way)... It was such a painful defeat, but I've never wanted to hit or to kill the players or the fans of the other team ? What's for ? I really can't understand that...

ps : if one fine day we'll play some snooker games, just let me win or I'll kill you... :eek: :D ... Really stupid, don't you think so ? LOL.

[Den21-Bal19]

I'm doing alright Den... Thanks... How are you doing too ?

It's true that Turkey is well-known for having such problems about soccer... Now, I don't have many proofs of what happened with Swiss... I hope there will be a solid investigation to find out what really happened and then find the guilties... And of course I expect sanctions... It's not acceptable to see that about sports !
If you want to see some fights, just go to see some boxing !
I can understand the disapointment of the supporters, but I can't accept those acts !
When you like sports, you have to be able to accept to lose...
I remember the 1982's France - Germany... We were defeated (in an ugly way)... It was such a painful defeat, but I've never wanted to hit or to kill the players or the fans of the other team ? What's for ? I really can't understand that...

ps : if one fine day we'll play some snooker games, just let me win or I'll kill you...Really stupid, don't you think so ? LOL.

Hey, I'm an English, we're used to heart-breaking losses, normally to the bloody Germans on penalties :mad:

And as for the snooker, I'm equally adept at breaking the reds or breaking heads :laugh:

I'm not sure what it is with the Turks, almost every English side that goes there has problems, although thankfully there was no agro at the Champions League final, the past problems were the reason I didn't go.

All that I would ask though, is that FIFA apply the rules equally. Countries like Spain get fined €2,000 Euros for racist abuse, yet small Eastern European countries get fined 10 time the amount, probably because they can't afford the lawyers? :confused:

[Booher]

Wow The us's domination of late continues....They are playing some great soccer right now.

[Sevenis7]

Wow The us's domination of late continues....They are playing some great soccer right now.

Yeah, USA C-squad manhandles Guatemala 4-0 in Frisco, TX. Don't know how many of those who played in last 3 friendlies will actually make the squad that goes to Germany, but they have been posting impressive wins...

[Booher]

1-0 us win over poland in germany in the snow.....YES

[Sevenis7]

Only 99 more days till WC2006.

[Sevenis7]

USA 1- Germany 4. Ouch! I saw the lowlights during halftime of a Copa Libertadores game.

[Den21-Bal19]

USA 1- Germany 4. Ouch! I saw the lowlights during halftime of a Copa Libertadores game.

I heard the score, but I don't really know a great deal more about the game than that............I believe the 1 was worth conceding 4 for though, major embarrasment for Oliver Kahn :D

Got a link for your goal?

[Bronco_f1]

USA 1- Germany 4. Ouch! I saw the lowlights during halftime of a Copa Libertadores game.

I saw that game against germany, the second half. 3 goals in 5 minutes! :eek: Kasey Keller got burned, he didn't look like the goalie he really is

[bronc_fan23]

I heard the score, but I don't really know a great deal more about the game than that............I believe the 1 was worth conceding 4 for though, major embarrasment for Oliver Kahn :D




Ha Ha ya bad one for Oli, but did you see the save off of that one corner. I dont care what you say about age, he is still a great goalie.

[Sevenis7]

Unfortunately for Kahn, Klinnsman thinks Lehman is better, and HE is Germany's #1 keeper for this summer's WC. Interesting....

[Den21-Bal19]

Unfortunately for Kahn, Klinnsman thinks Lehman is better, and HE is Germany's #1 keeper for this summer's WC. Interesting....

I heard about this, one of the biggest complaints the German press have at the moment is that Klinnsman is (has been) working out of his LA home and studying tape, rather than catching matches in person. Personnaly, I still think that Khan is one of the best keepers around, and find the move some what suprising. Lehman is still very flaky, prone to rash decisions and getting involved with things that he needn't. From what I hear, Wenger, whilst not actively looking, would consider upgrading between the sticks if the right player became available.

Where Lehman has shown his worth though this year is with the way he's managed a very inexperienced back four, but I wouldn't have thought this was a problem for Germany, as they'll have the usual suspects at the back.

BTW, Seven, good result for your boys last night, 1-0 would have been fantastic before the game, but there's got to be a tinge of disappointment, you oculd have ended the tie there & then.................I know it's something like 2,000 years since the Gunners last conceded a goal in Europe, bu I think that you'll have to score at least once next week. :beer:

EDIT - Maybe my previous point about the US-Germany game and conceding to embarass Khan with that one wasn't too far wide of the mark

[Sevenis7]

The funny thing about Lehmann v. Kahn is that they're the same age! I could understand if you think Oliver has lost a step or two over the years, but to switch to someone who's not any younger doesn't make sense to me.

To be honest, unless the German fans can muster up some real "home field advantage", I don't see their national team going very far. It's an ugly brand of soccer (very defensive), and I don't think they have a lot up front to win many matches once it gets to the knock-out stages.

[Sevenis7]

In a totally unrelated post: How's New Wembley stadium coming along? I heard it might host an NFL game next year.

[Den21-Bal19]

The funny thing about Lehmann v. Kahn is that they're the same age! I could understand if you think Oliver has lost a step or two over the years, but to switch to someone who's not any younger doesn't make sense to me.

To be honest, unless the German fans can muster up some real "home field advantage", I don't see their national team going very far. It's an ugly brand of soccer (very defensive), and I don't think they have a lot up front to win many matches once it gets to the knock-out stages.

Bit of a strange one that :confused:

Home advantage for the World Cup tends to be around one round, ie if a team is normally good enough for the last sixteen, they'll probably reach the quarters. It can be worth a lot more than that, look at the performances of South Korea last time round.

Unfortunately for most of us, Germany's brand of football tends to be ruthlessly efficient, I'd be suprised if they don't at least make the last eight.

In a totally unrelated post: How's New Wembley stadium coming along? I heard it might host an NFL game next year.

The new Wembly is a typical English farce, 2 years overdue and massively over-budget...................personally I think it's a massive joke by the Aussies, sticking one over the dumb poms and ripping them off at the same time.

The opening has been put back until at least next year, and I can't say that I'm overly upset, it always has been a pain in the butt of a place for the majority of the country to get to, and everything down London's massively overpriced.

The only chance I see for an NFL game would be next pre-season, unless, as is possible, the Glazer's decide to do something between Manure and the Buccs.

[Sevenis7]

The new Wembly is a typical English farce, 2 years overdue and massively over-budget...................personally I think it's a massive joke by the Aussies, sticking one over the dumb poms and ripping them off at the same time.

The opening has been put back until at least next year, and I can't say that I'm overly upset, it always has been a pain in the butt of a place for the majority of the country to get to, and everything down London's massively overpriced.

The only chance I see for an NFL game would be next pre-season, unless, as is possible, the Glazer's decide to do something between Manure and the Buccs.

Last year NFL had pre-season game (Indy v. Atlanta) in Japan and a regular season game (SF v. Arizona) in Mexico City. I thought the plan this upcoming pre-season to have a game in London....

Granted I don't live in the UK, but as an outsider, I think the stadium's incredible. Even the arch (which some see as an eyesore)! You all have a few new stadia (Wembley, Emirates) that should be incredible places to catch a match. I live in Los Angeles area and the rumor the past 5-6 years is that an NFL team will be moving here, but people are unwilling to invest in a new stadium so they trot out the Rose Bowl and Colisseum (both of which are 75-80 year old facilities). Count your blessings with your state-of-the-art venues.

[Den21-Bal19]

Last year NFL had pre-season game (Indy v. Atlanta) in Japan and a regular season game (SF v. Arizona) in Mexico City. I thought the plan this upcoming pre-season to have a game in London....

Granted I don't live in the UK, but as an outsider, I think the stadium's incredible. Even the arch (which some see as an eyesore)! You all have a few new stadia (Wembley, Emirates) that should be incredible places to catch a match. I live in Los Angeles area and the rumor the past 5-6 years is that an NFL team will be moving here, but people are unwilling to invest in a new stadium so they trot out the Rose Bowl and Colisseum (both of which are 75-80 year old facilities). Count your blessings with your state-of-the-art venues.

If it's ever finished :laugh:

It's just that in the scheme of things, it is just ludicrous to be building a new 'national' stadium in a location that suits less than 25% of the population...........it's been great having England playing games in different parts of the country and to try to recoup the cost all England matches and FA cup semis will be played there.

Traditionally, there's been a bit of a divide, the southerner's all love England games, as they can get to Wembly and back fairly easily, where as for us northerner's an England match means a couple of days off work........pain in the butt!!!!!!

And Cardiff's been much better for the League & FA Cup Finals than Wembley's ever been

(Not that I'm creeping to our Shark at all ;) )

[Sevenis7]

It's just that in the scheme of things, it is just ludicrous to be building a new 'national' stadium in a location that suits less than 25% of the population...........it's been great having England playing games in different parts of the country and to try to recoup the cost all England matches and FA cup semis will be played there.

Traditionally, there's been a bit of a divide, the southerner's all love England games, as they can get to Wembly and back fairly easily, where as for us northerner's an England match means a couple of days off work........pain in the butt!!!!!!

I didn't know about the demographics. I thought there was a greater concentration of England's population in and around the London area. Didn't know it was only 25%.

And Cardiff's been much better for the League & FA Cup Finals than Wembley's ever been

How does Millenium Stadium compare to New Wembley capacity-wise? Aren't both about 80,000 seats? And speaking of stadia, which one is your favorite to watch a match? Be objective.

[Jaws]

Looks like the next England manager is to be ex Brazil manager Luis Felipe Scolari.

link (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4949118.stm)

If he accepts the post Scolari, who led Brazil to victory at the 2002 World Cup, would replace Sven-Goran Eriksson after this summer's tournament.

[Den21-Bal19]

Looks like the next England manager is to be ex Brazil manager Luis Felipe Scolari.

link (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4949118.stm)

If he accepts the post Scolari, who led Brazil to victory at the 2002 World Cup, would replace Sven-Goran Eriksson after this summer's tournament.

I've got to say I'm pretty happy with that choice, if the FA don't find someway to screw it up.

Personally my first choice would have been Gus Hiddink, but Scolari's not bad.

England won't get an English manager until one of them does consistently well in the league and in Europe. McClaren, Allardyce and Curbishley don't inspire me with confidence.

The only thing that bugs me is this: If the FA were going to go for a foreign manager, how come Arsene Wenger's not been spoken to ? Maybe something to do with the fact that Arsenal's David Dein was on the 3 man selection board?

[Sevenis7]

I've got to say I'm pretty happy with that choice, if the FA don't find someway to screw it up.

Dunno. Personally, I think Felipao is Felo****. His Palmeiras squads were noted for crude, rough play. He did bring "discipline" (ie, defensive mindset) to the 2002 Brazil squad, but not exactly jogo bonito. It was ten guys on defense and Ronaldo. But, hey, they won, right?

The only thing that bugs me is this: If the FA were going to go for a foreign manager, how come Arsene Wenger's not been spoken to ? Maybe something to do with the fact that Arsenal's David Dein was on the 3 man selection board?

You bring up a good point. Wenger would make a great choice. He obviously knows the Premiership; he's had success; he's a highly respected coach. Certainly makes sense to me, all homerism aside.

[Jaws]

Dunno. Personally, I think Felipao is Felo****. His Palmeiras squads were noted for crude, rough play. He did bring "discipline" (ie, defensive mindset) to the 2002 Brazil squad, but not exactly jogo bonito. It was ten guys on defense and Ronaldo. But, hey, they won, right?



You bring up a good point. Wenger would make a great choice. He obviously knows the Premiership; he's had success; he's a highly respected coach. Certainly makes sense to me, all homerism aside.

Scolari won't be the next coach. He's pulled out already before signing and sealing a deal, citing media pressure as his reasons for withdrawing.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4955490.stm

[Den21-Bal19]

Scolari won't be the next coach. He's pulled out already before signing and sealing a deal, citing media pressure as his reasons for withdrawing.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4955490.stm

On Radio 5Live earlier, they were citing DEATH THREATS as the reason for his withdrawal.

And I just don't see any of the English managers as having the right credentials for the job

[Jaws]

On Radio 5Live earlier, they were citing DEATH THREATS as the reason for his withdrawal.

And I just don't see any of the English managers as having the right credentials for the job

:eek:

FA is in a bit of a pickle over this one.

[Den21-Bal19]

I figured I'd find something, somewhere.................

On top of that it is understood that Scolari's family also received death threats from Portuguese football fans angry at what they saw as his potential betrayal on the eve of the World Cup. That is likely to provide a more realistic explanation for his amazing U-turn given his years of experience in handling the media in Brazil and Portugal.

Another fine mess (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2006/04/29/sfnfro29.xml&sSheet=/sport/2006/04/29/ixfooty.html)

:eek:

FA is in a bit of a pickle over this one.

To be honest, I never expected anything different from the Farcical Amateurs.............they're the Anti-Midas, everything they touch turns to cack :mad:

Location of the National Stadium, the build itself, England Manager.................let's be honest here, the FA know Sweet FA!!!!!!!!!!


BTW, Jaws, is Booker looking forward to a good beating tomorrow, sorry later :laugh:

[Jaws]

I figured I'd find something, somewhere.................



Another fine mess (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2006/04/29/sfnfro29.xml&sSheet=/sport/2006/04/29/ixfooty.html)



To be honest, I never expected anything different from the Farcical Amateurs.............they're the Anti-Midas, everything they touch turns to cack :mad:

Location of the National Stadium, the build itself, England Manager.................let's be honest here, the FA know Sweet FA!!!!!!!!!!

It seems to me that could be said about a lot of the British sport governing bodies - the WRU, LTA - a load of old out of touch buffoons if you tell me.

[Den21-Bal19]

It seems to me that could be said about a lot of the British sport governing bodies - the WRU, LTA - a load of old out of touch buffoons if you tell me.

Should just give me the job, noone will mess with my enforcer-in-chief, she's got sharp teeth, you know ;)

Seriously though, it's incredible the conflict of interests involved, David Dein, for example, who's the chairman of Arsenal sits on the international board and the competition board. The international board have been searching for the new manager, and haven't spoken to the best English based manager, strangely enough, Arsene Wenger, and Dein sat in on the competition board last season when they were arguing over whether or not to nominate the BS or the European Champions for this season's CL...........of course it was in Arsenal's best interests for the BS to qualify as they would (and did :D ) get knocked out early, meaning the money pot was split 3 ways instead of four meaning more cash for the Gunners.

[Den21-Bal19]

Twin bad news for England's World Cup hopes.

Manure's Wayne Rooney was strechered off during the 3-0 defeat to Chelsea which a scan has revealed a fractured 4th metatarsal in his right foot. Expected recovery time is around six weeks, but he was out for 3 months two years back after a similar injury against Portugal in the Euros.

Newcastle's limped off at the end of their game today, he played 30 minutes after returning from a broken metatarsal suffered in a collision with Tottenham's England goalkeeper Paul Robinson on New Year's Eve. Reportedly, he wasn't '100% happy with it'

Much as I like Crouchy, Crouch and ...........I dunno, Bent?, doesn't quite inspire the same fear as Owen & Rooney

[y2cragie]

As long as the fat bstrd trains properly this time round he should be good to go for the qtr finals and perhaps a quali match aswell, but England dont need him to win. If they do what does that say about the team.

[Sevenis7]

The fact of the matter is they DO need him. Who's going to score all your goals?

[y2cragie]

Well, as far as I am concerned, if England cant win without him, they have no right being there. I'm not saying he isn't a big asset. But England have a strong team all round and I think there are pleanty who, while not as good, will step up and score goals and cause problems anyway.

[Den21-Bal19]

The fact of the matter is they DO need him. Who's going to score all your goals?

He didn't score in the qualifiers, I think that Lampard was the top scorer, off the top of my head.

With Owen lacking match fitness, I'd probably go with a 4-5-1 formation, bring Michael Carrick of Spurs into midfield, and Peter Crouch up top. Push Gerrard forward into the hole and you've go 2 midfielders in Stevie G and Lampard that have scored 15+ each this season.

[DevilSpawn]

I've had major pools on the World Cup for the last 3 and I won the first 2 and had my team go into the championship game the last 2. I'm thinking of placing a few wagers this year although my sentimental favorite, Spain, never makes it. :(