so who here will be watching the worldcup ? i might go to the local british pub to watch the usa england game here in california the rest of the games i will probably have to watch in spanish its no fun when ireland isnt it it

I think ESPN is having extensive coverage of it, so no need to watch it in Espanol. Of course my two favorites are the USA and Germany. Should be an interesting first round!

yep cstokes . i only have normal tv so the spanish channels will be showing it dunno if abc will be showing it . is pieter going ? ha

Pieter will probably be wearing ear plugs, all those people blowing those stupid plastic horns.

Haha, I doubt he will share!!!

It’s absolutely ok without Ireland and I’ll watch every match I can. Especially looking forward traditional English flop and North Korea’s suprising succes.

Im going to stay drunk throughout the tournament, less painful that way. If anyone wants to smash a few pubs up let me know.

When is the USA game?

I dont think we have a excellent team this year , but i can assure you its still very hard to beat us. sorry guys

@stinkboto 12-06-2010

We shall see, AP, we shall see…

thanks ap

Hehehe i am just messing with you guys. I know we have some great teams in the competition

I watched a rather interesting documentary called The Power of the Game the other night - directed by Michael Apted, no less. It followed the 2006 World Cup qualifying campaigns for three countries (Iran, South Africa and the USA) and discussed various social and political issues concerning each country. The USA portions were quite eye-opening. I’d known before that football wasn’t particularly popular in the States but they coach was basically saying that the entire sport is on a knife-edge every time the World Cup comes around and that failure to qualify for the tournament could well be a death blow. Their biggest rival is of course Mexico. Although the home qualifying game against them could have sold out a 90,000 seat stadium in California, the problem was that 60-70,000 of the audience would have been Mexican ! So they made the decision to move the game to a 24,000 seat stadium in Ohio where they still only managed to scrape a 50/50 split. I remember being in Chicago when the final of the 1998 World Cup was on. In order to watch it I ended up having to get a cab six miles to an Irish bar in a suburb where I watched it in the company of about half a dozen other punters only a couple of whom seemed remotely interested in the game.

hell yeah. thats going to be awesome. all ready stocking up on beer, cant wait for it to start. Im rooting for Germany of course, but I doubt they will win. Its about the only time where being drunk all the time isnt accepted, its requested.

Germany always have a chance, its in them to win. As an Englishman theres only one team I want to see win, but even our eternal optimism is wearing thin. Always in with a chance but the thing with England is no one who has followed them for years would be surprised if they beat Brazil or Argentina, but equally we wouldn’t be surprised if a side from the local pub beat them.

I’m looking forward to it. I would have to pick Spain or Brasil to win. Of course you can never write off Germany or Argentina or even England. I think Ivory Coast will do pretty well also.

I’ll watch faithfully. I’m just bummed that ESPN has the coverage. Bad announcers (Though they do have Martin Tyler this year). Horrible in-studio features like “Can America win it all?” (C’mon, really). I see a Brazil triumph with Argentina having an outside chance.

I reckon England do have a chance this year. It’s going to be a lot harder now though without Rio Ferdinand, who has been ruled out through injury. We should definately win our group, if we can’t beat USA ( sorry guys), Algeria, and Slovenia there is something wrong. We will get to the Semi’s at least I reckon. Stefan

I’m sorry if I sound negative but I’m fed up with World Cup Soccer. For the past 4 years, that was all that counted in this doomed country. Millions and millions of taxpayers money was wasted on stadions which will never be of any use again. It will go to ruins like everything else in Africa. The first team which arrived was robbed of R160,000 the day after they landed. I hope and pray that all visitors will be safe because our police are useless. With over 10,000 of them in jail (I’m serious, no joking) and the rest corrupt to the core, I’m really worried about what will happen in the next 30 days. With a president who are married to 3 wifes with 21 children, who was up for rape and corruption, who can’t even read fluently and can hard write, you can’t expect much. Pray, please pray for your teams and countrymen who are here today. They are in serious danger.

I guess that might be the one way that america could win it all. Wonder if E.S.P.n. will point that out. Seriously though I agree with Pieter and hope that nothing too terrible happens.

The TV promotion for the world cup in the uk has been facinating. We get shown beautiful landscapes of South Africa with a SA PR woman saying how great it is to visit and a tame uk commentator, shit scared of being branded a racist, saying how safe it is. On the smaller channels, we get investigative journalists, who dont care a toss about being politicallt correct, going into SA under cover, risking their lives and showing on film what it is really like. Showing black refugees from surrounding countries being rounded up and being burnt or clubbed to death by black South Africans because they might steal their jobs. Interviewing victims of gang rape in the townships who are two frightened to report it to the police because their relatives will be killed ( and the police ignore it anyway) Showing the government destroying whole townships near the road and rail routes because they dont want visitors to the World Cup to see how people really live. Dont know about the rest of the world, but there is no excuse for anyone in the uk not knowing what to expect !.

Sounds like 1936.

Smoking vultures brains? According tho the SA wildlife organisations and the uk media, South african practioners of “muti magic” are doing this to see the results of the world cup games BEFORE they happen and then betting heavily on them. The mind boggles !!!

Obviously I will follow the game, thinking about goin to London visiting my old man watching some footy

I just read an article about a couple idiots in Liverpool burning the US flag. Karma?

Thats really silly. I know how pissed off I feel when Muslims march through the centre of London and burn the Union Jack.

I haven’t heard about the burning of a USA flag in Liverpool, but I guess it’s connected to the ongoing dispute between Liverpool FC supporters and the club’s American owners. The more extreme of the LFC supporters have a group and hold demonstrations. I see them on the news and down to a man they are barely-articulate morons who embarrass our city. Most Liverpool supporters would not condone their actions in burning an American flag.

@ohare: That is the exact scenario. I know that these idiots are usually a very small group and sadly embarrass the rest of the population. I think it’s a bit of a stretch to burn a flag over their disdain for the ownership, but as you said, they are barely articulate morons.

Ten soccer hooligans from Argentinia were caught on the Johannesburg airport and deported. Police had information that they came to SA to cause trouble.

Everything is going according to plan. A Portugese TV team were robbed at gunpoint in their hotel room in Johannesburg.

I did read that Pieter. I’m not a fan of football but I came across this forum. The Columbian & Koreans got done too.ForumPs. Don’t click the ‘To Join’ button, just let the page load.

Still on track; TV team from Spain was also robbed at gunpoint

Well, Bafana Bafana survived their first match although Mexico scored twice. I’m waiting for tonight’s game between America and England seeing that I have a lot of friends in both countries. I’m holding fingers crossed for both teams!!

I have to go with England on this one, sorry comrades.

Argentina was such a letdown this morning! I still can’t believe that the best forward line in the world (Higuain!, Tevez!!, Messi!!!) could not score a goal against Nigeria, it had to be a defender that saved the day. Still, I see them making the the semifinals easily. Argentina-England should be fun.

Argentina is always like this Much more bs talking (specially against us) than soccer i dont care , the customer is always right

Woohoo! England 1-0 up after 4 mins. Steven Gerrard with a cool finish. Stefan

Bollocks! 1-1 Robert Green couldn’t catch a cold ffs. Stefan

Hehe! Equalizer! Come on USA!!! More shots on target and Green hoovers them in.

I dont get it. Why cant there be any english goalkeeper thats at least average?

Well, I kept my fingers crossed for both teams and it worked!

Oh dear 1-1. Typical England yet another agonising night. It never gets easier watching England. Ah well we drew our first game in 1966 so we can win it again. Stefan

Filek, I’m still looking for them but it seems as if they’re all up in Johannesburg. I will keep my eyes open, promise!

shit.

England I mean

Well done yanks. Lets hope this encourages football (soccer) in the US.

I’m in the ABE (Anyone But England) camp, so last night’s match was fairly encouraging ! More top quality goalkeeping like that please :o) Incidentally, the noise from those damned horns is really doing my head in already.

The bloody ref between Serbia and Ghana cheated and that’s why Ghana won.

the british bar i was going to go to was packed couldnt get in so went to my usual bar instead . they had a good crowd also there was also a big outdoor screen showing the game at the beach with la galaxy players … lots of people in usa flags and shirts it was good to see … drinking from 11.30 in the morning isnt recommened thou ha

Ghana was really good and deserved to win, best performance in tournament this far.

Filek, I think he did so by accident. If he did not touch the ball, it would have made no difference to where the ball was going. What I mean is, Ghana wasn’t in a worse position because he touched the ball.

Surprised there is enough people left in Ghana to form a football team. Thought they all lived here now

You see mate the Poles have had an impact on the tournament lolol Stefan

Yes, very happy to see Deutschland doing so well.

The bloody vuvuzelles sound like 1,000,000 blue-bottles on a piece of dung. I trully HATE that shit. That’s why I’m not interested in South African soccer. I hope it won’t blow over to other countries after the World Cup. Germany is playing a beautiful game and they deserve to win. I was just now wondering what will happen in a rugby match between Germany and Australia?!!!

lol filek xD. Anyway great match, good spirits Im thrilled for friday. Serbia here we come.

Great show from Germany, they never loose the capacity to win. Even though their debut was against the Ozzies, I fancy they have a long way to go. England would be too ragged in defence if it comes to it Im afraid.

@Pieter: “The bloody vuvuzelles sound like 1,000,000 blue-bottles on a piece of dung. I trully HATE that shit. That’s why I’m not interested in South African soccer. I hope it won’t blow over to other countries after the World Cup.” Christ, it had better not. I can’t believe they weren’t banned. They are truly irritating.

They are considering a ban on them. It is becoming hard for the players to hear the refs and for the commentators to hear everything. I didn’t mind them at first, but it has gotten in the way of the game, so get rid of them.

the dutch didnt play good so now Im hoping for Japan vs Cameroon. haha

They won 2-0, I’d say that’s decent!

I’m hoping to get home in time to atleast see 1/2 of the Italy game.

It’s been raining in Cape Town since Saturday. No umbrellas will be allowed in the stadion because the African savages will use it to kill each other when they get upset. I do not favour any team but I must say the Germans played the neatest game so far.

I agree, Pieter, Germany looks the best so far. Many people have doubted them due to their youth. I hope they take it all the way.

lol Japan vs Cameroon was the worst game so far.

@Pieter Umbrellas are banned everywhere under UEFA and FIFA rules.

AllanH, just shows you how much I don’t know about soccer!!

I thought on betting a couple a bucks on North Korea, (26.00!) but i guess i should start another money intensive hobby. For now go Paraguay!

indeed. so many goalkeeper faults in the tournament already it gets hilarious.

@Goldenboy Are you betting against Brazil not a wise decision

xD I wont, I just like to make 130 from 5. And I think North Korea is underestimated lol.

DPR of Korea is my favourite in tournament and I’m sure they show up against Brazil even though Portugal is the main ‘enemy’ to settle score from 1966.

havent missed a game yet, but ill probably pass on new zealand against slovakia. have to work some time too.

What League is Slovakia’s goalkeeper playing in?

Come on People’s Democratic Republic of Korea! I promised to beat up anyone in pub talking about “North” Korea.

vuvuzelas Another of the “oh my god who is the doctor that droped half of humanity on their heads during delivery”? And when will we finaly take away his medical liscense and have him shot. God damn thanks a lot for allowing me to discover another reason to find humanity to be a very annoying animal. Just had to throw that in.

I think North Korea has determination, if they lose, they will spend the rest of their lives in a contianment camp.

DPR of Korea is playing well.I’m afraid Brazil manages to snatch a goal and then we’re fucked. And we are now!

Lmao@ “People’s Democratic” Republic of Korea. Don’t think Kim Jong Il is known for his democratic tendencies. Stefan

Brazil looks okay. Nobody as quite shown what Deutschland did the other day.

GO DPRK!!!

@cstokes i agree It was alright for the first macht Lets see what happens next.

I thought I’d share this (about cutting out the sound of vuvuzelas) with you guys.

Oh…shit. Supermarkets in the uk reported selling tens of thousands of vuvuzelas over the weekend and sales are still going strong.

I can imagine seeing these horns at the Dollar Tree. I think DPRK lost to Brazil, 2-1.

For sure they lost You didnt think we were going to lose did you

I think they’d have won if it was a spelling bee, or similar.

woooooo. the peoples democratic republic was definitely better then lichtenstein xD

Spelling bee sorry but what is this

It is where kids spell words in a contest. I don’t really get the connection. I’m not sure if it was a bash on Brazilian intelligence or whatever… DPRK won’t get past the first round, which I will be more than glad to see. Get outta here!

I was just saying, smaller asian people don’t seem to be the best when it comes to athletics, but they usually are very good with intellect things.

Some good games tomorrow: Honduras v. Chile – Hope Honduras takes it, but I doubt it. Spain v. Switzerland – Spain should take this one, they are heavily favored to win it all. South Africa v. Uruguay – This might be the match of the day, something tells me SA will put up a hell of a fight.

dat rite

ok

DPR of Korea put up a good fight against mighty Brazil and I’m sure they give hard time to Portugal and Ivory Coast. Only 3 of North Korean squad play outside Korea and I think only one in Europe, Saratov in Russia.

Holy shit, Switzerland did it. WOW!

lol its incredible here, shouting people and cars honking (?). I never thought that would happen.

Vuvuzelas rule! I’m going to get a few in different colours. Fair play for Switzerland! South Africa vs Uruguay next, that’ll be a battle!

Well that’s a surprise! I was at work when I got a message from my friend that Spain lost. I had to call him because I thought he was joking. Chile played a really nice game, I wish they won more than 1:0 because they deserved it.

Does N. Korea play any more, or is that it?

@tom 21/06 vs Portugal 25/06 vs Ivory Coast

Thanks.

Those two games will pretty much be it. Portugal will pick them apart, and Ivory Coast may have their way with them as well. Sadly, I think the road has come to an end for South Africa

Looks like end of the tournament for South Africa. I saw only few last minutes of the game, that sudden silence when SA fans stopped blowing vuvuzeles after the goals seemed almost strange.

I think their coach (brazilian btw) will lose his job He was our coach in 94 when we won the competition for the fourth time

Ah! That’s the problem! (JK)

hehhehehe he cant operate miracles

lol its getting crazy here. MacDonalds sold their hamburgers for 1 insted of 2.5, and tomorrow there is 10% off in shops that belong to a chain from supermarkets to high tec. ps. Lol at a poster some swiss fans had in south africa “Chocolate beats Paella”

Ha, that’s pretty clever!

Terrible beating to South Africa but they deserved it, only one good footballer in team, goalkeeper who was sent off. Uruguay was good and they really have traditions in beautiful game.

“Don’t cry for me, Argentina”!! No need for Argentina to cry, they might be the next world champions.

@AllanH, yes, that might have been the straw that broke the camel’s back. I’m really glad they took such a punishment! The team was picked by the ANC.

Argentina was really strong today, they have the means to win it all; Messi, Heinze, Tevez, Higuania etc. And they have Diego Armando at helm.

Yeah, they are one of about 4 teams that will always be contenders. Spain were a bit shook up though last night.

things looking quite grim for france

And Mexico has a girl in their team! Number 17, dos Santos. Good win for them!

Germany cannot get beat by Serbia! Shit!

Chris, I’m sitting in agony with 2 portions of snus in my lip to help me survive! Germany’s first game was perfect, now they are battling. Can’t believe it. Shit!!!

I can’t even watch it! I wish I was at home, my 2 teams are playing today! Dammit!

Klose got a red card!!! What!!!

Is Iran in this?

The ref is one eyed!!

@tom: Go to fifa.com, they have all the teams on there. @Pieter: I think it’s over for Germany, now they have to win their last game.

Now they have to go on and beat Ghana to get to the next round. I would say that they could do it, but I also thought they would rout Serbia.

Well gents, a new South African sound treat is on the way. Its called the Kuduzela and according to todays uk Daily Telegraph its far louder than the Vuvuzela. Its selling world wide and was used to summon the SA warriors to battle. Part of the black South Africans culture, so they say, so it could be considered “racist” to ban it. So is a spear in the arse. Lets hope that catches on too.

bah. we didnt play that well and the ref did the rest. now a really important game against ghana.

Germany will beat Ghana hands down, no doubt about that!!!

Bafana will need a Mandelazela to win another game!!!

Good grief, USA is already down 1-0. What a shit day.

Jabula South African shops here in Ireland have a back-log of over 150 vuvuzelas all the time. I’m ordering a couple and blow them at Shamrock Rovers matches! And the ref in Serbia-Germany match was a disgrace; 9 yellows when 2 or 3 had been enough. Slovenia taking on USA really well now.

2-0, it’s over.

I think it’s time to take out Howard, there is obviously something going on.

Slovenia dropped Russia off the World Cup in qualifiers, so they’re a really good side. I can’t see USA getting anything out of this, they looked like missing base ball or something, not knowing what to do.

Back in the game!

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

Now it’s 2 all! Well done! Bradley clan rules!

I will certainly be watching the replay of this one tonight. Must be a brilliant game to watch.

That ended better than it was looking. Whew! Still not too thrilled with a tie.

Brilliant come back from USA! They are like North Koreans in every sense: disciplined, brave and patriotic. Only their players sang the national anthem.

Well done, US of A !!!

Chenquieh US and A!

tom502, Borat?

I agree about the goal, Attis. Was horse shit. I think the US proved that they have the determination.

yes

Good game from Algeria, England was outplayed. Wayne Rooney’s bitching after match crowned whole affair.

"Good game from Algeria, England was outplayed. Wayne Rooney’s bitching after match crowned whole affair. " There is, I believe, an unspoken conviction that Britain’s varied games, invented and developed within these islands and now played throughout the world, somehow engender the inhabitants (at least the English) with a divine right of sporting precedence. At every World Cup where England manages to qualify there is an unjustified mood of expectancy. There is the conviction that the heroes of English club football are going to show the world a thing or two. However, overpaid English players under-perform and it is the world (in the shape of other B teams like the USA and Algeria) that demonstrate the unpalatable point. England just don’t have the bottle to compete at this level. How many World Cup tournaments does it take to prove that 1966 was a one-off? At this level of play the England squad will be eliminated at the group stage and the bubble of English optimism will be deflated … until the start of the next World Cup whereupon the whole sorry saga is repeated once again. Sometime between 1918 and 1939 Britain quietly evolved into a state of abject losers. There have been rare exceptions in war, sport and commerce, but the general rule hanging over the heads of a nation of ‘has-beens’ and incompetents still holds true. Despite the glaring evidence the hubris of a nation in self-denial is truly amazing. Optimism against all the facts almost defines English people in the modern world. That said I’m still hoping that the show will be alright on the night and that England finally lifts the trophy. Fingers crossed. : < )

Team ABE thoroughly enjoyed the England match last night but it was a strange couple of results yesterday. The ideal scenario (England to go out to Germany on penalties in the second round) is still possible but my head hurts trying to figure out the results in the final group games which would get them meeting. If Germany beat Ghana they should go top, in which case England need to beat Slovenia by fewer goals than the USA beat Algeria. If Germany get a draw with Ghana, Serbia need to beat Australia. Or something like that anyway.

England were a disgrace. Gutless, passionless ,overpaid ,spineless prima donnas the lot of them. Thats why I don’t watch professional football. I see 1000 times more commitment and passion from the team I support, Sheffield FC the world’s oldest footy club, and they play in the “8th division” (Unibond League Division 1 South). At the moment I’m “Backing the Beard” (not shaving till England go out), but I certainly feel a shave coming on on Wednesday. Disgraceful. Stefan

Fair enough from the All Whites!

NZ did good today. I have no affiliation with that part of the world, but I’m real proud of all those lads. At the very least, it teaches Italy a lesson. You may have some of the best players in the world, but a team that has only been in the world cup once before can make you run for the glory. As an aside, Denmark winning 2-1 over Cameroon was a nice break to our mildly horrible (but expected) start in the cup. We _should_ be able to deal with Japan next, but as it is with the cup, surprises abound.

Yeah, Cameroon outplayed Denmark totally, creating like 23 goal-scoring changes. But is just that what makes football the greatest game ever: scoring goals and winning is extremely difficult. There’s kind of arcane egaliatarity here.

The French team is on strike, did not practice today. Seems as if their managers are fighting amongst themselves.

I was hoping Ivory Coast would give Brasil a shock but it wasn’t to be. They were barely in it and ended up losing their cool. Pity, but I suppose that’s what you get when you employ Sven as a manager.

terrible losers they were

Apocalyptic defeat for Korea DPR. I think this is the end or world. Swarm of locusts is next…

Wow, 7-0. Biggest margin yet at the expense of DPR.

I’d expect that Kim Jong Il will somehow spin it into some sort of major victory for the DPR Korea, seeing as he hasn’t even let the country watch any of the games so far.

All Korea DPR matches like many other World Cup matches and European Championship League, English Premiership and Italian League A are broadcasted there, not live but in delay because broadcasting rights are then much cheaper. Country isn’t actually awash of money and sanctions haven’t helped situation. Broadcasting rights are negotiated years beforehand and Korea DPR hadn’t even qualified then.

I stand corrected.

those refs who think that football should be a game without contact annoy the hell out of me.

@Goldenboy, that’s why I rather ride my bike. Cycling is also a contact sport but the only thing you contact is Mother Earth

@ Pieter, I feel the same. I’m pretty new to cycling and went for two nice rides yesterday instead of watching the matches. I had a great ride last Friday, taking advantage of the England v Algeria game to enjoy the empty roads. Great stuff…I’m enjoying it so much. I’ll definitely watch the Uruguay v Mexico game though, I’ve been looking forward to that one.

I just huoe the North Koreans are okmwhen they get home, there arestories of USSR payers getting a pretty rough deal in the Rhodinia.

@snuffster LOL. View from trailer park.

@ Maciej justin.tv/directory/sports I think that should do it or just google justin.tv sports. Stefan

South Africa gave a good fight, wasn’t enough but they have their honour unlike France.

@AllanH, I’ve edited this post because you’ve “put me right”!!

@Pieter 16 nation World Cups are not comparable to modern 32 nation WC. South Africa got a decent score of tournament.

Doesn’t look like the US will be advancing…

Gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooolllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll

England & USA are through! Gosh, that was tense! I must say that the USA deserved to go through, especially after being robbed of perfectly legal goals earlier on in the group stage. I don’t even mind that they’ve topped the group ahead of England. Well, not much

The two teams that should have gotten through (but didn’t look like they would) got through. Congrats to you all across the pond, well played.

Now it’s time for Germany to beat down Ghana.

Do you know why Greece never get any corner shots? Because they will open up a cafe on the corner instead of taking the kick.

Team ABE was down the pub this afternoon and thoroughly depressed for most of it. And out of the blue the USA score in the dying moments ! It’s all looking good now … come on Germany ! A win against Ghana then a penalty shootout win on Sunday …

If Germany ties Ghana, I think they will play the US, if they beat Ghana, they will play England. I don’t think I can deal with a US-Germany game this early, they have to beat Ghana.

things looking good now. I hope it stays like this and Ghana makes it to the next round. It would suck if all the African teams would drop out this early.

Italy has to go home. Hehe.

Italy deservedly lost to Slovakia. They really only tried for the last 15 minutes or so of the game. Quagliarella’s goal was beautiful…the best of the tournament so far.

switzerland is hilarious. they beat spain, lose to chile and draw aginst honduras. lol.

Damn we will have to play against Chile next monday, we are screwed

I’m watching England/Germany now. Tonight will be the big one when Argentina plays Mexico. My money is on Argentina

That blown goal for England wouldn’t have changed anything. England was too slow… Germany was way too fast.

Chris, I agree but England was robbed. No doubt about that. It might just as well have been the difference between win or lose.

Well, I don’t. Lampard’s goal came after the best 10 minutes England has played in the World Cup. Considering how lousy their first stage was, that’s not saying a lot. But it would have forced Germany to open up their lines and take risks rather than just parking the half the team between the box and the midfield waiting for the chance of a quick counter. That said, England’s defense was atrocious and it is a shame that a player of Rooney’s talent has been so irrelevant for his team.

That Müller is something else, though.

Good win for Germany today- justice of '66- and Ghana yesterday but must say USA played well, coach Bradley is the Man, wizard of tactics and son, number 4 Bradley was outstanding midfielder. Good World Cup this far, now cheering Argentina.

Rooting for Argetina here too. Too bad an Argentina-England is not in the cards any more. That’s the stuff World Cups are made of.

With the US out of it I can finally throw all of my support behind Germany. England was robbed just as the US was robbed, and most of these teams are being robbed. It has become par for the course at this WC. The refs either call every little touch or they call nothing at all, there is no consistency at all. Plus the ball this year is a piece of crap. FIFA needs to get their shit together.

Wasn´t there an obvious difference in class this afternoon? Of course the goal was robbed from the English, that was clear. Would it really have turned the game? Hardly. But in all honesty, neither the English nor the German team would stand a chance against Argentina anyway. So, it´s Germany instead of England losing in the quarter final, no big deal. I really hope the Dutch make an impact in the tourney. It can´t be Brazil winning all the time. I´d love to see a Netherlands vs Argentina final.

I think Germany has a great chance against Argentina, or even Mexico at that.

Mexico really ain´t that bad, but Argentina convinced in every single match, they have a wonderful team this time. Of course, Germany could win against both of them, but they´re not very stable. Maybe because this is such a young team, they lack a bit of their old crackers, like Ballack. Let´s see!

So far Germany has played against really shoddy defenses. They are a very good team as long as If they are allowed fast transitions. I would like to see how they do when the game turns more static and individual talent gets a chance to shine.

Even if they are losing, Mexico is playing better than I thought they would. I can’t believe this Dos Santos is the same guy that wasted every opportunity he was given at Barcelona and Manchester City.

I think that you have to have cataracts in order to be a FIFA referee.

One shot to the post. Three clear chances. How many of those did Mexico have in the first stage?

Well… looks like it will be Germany v. Argentina next Saturday. Watching this Argentina v. Mexico game makes me think that it will be a pretty good match, but Germany does have their work cut out for them. Maybe FIFA can get a 1/2 decent referee crew for the game.

it will be a hard match , but i think Germany will win .

Things are getting interesting now with the big guns shooting at each other. Argentina/Mexico was very nice to watch and today’s games will also be thrilling. Problem for me is while I’m watching the games, I tend to take a pinch every couple of minutes while snussing as well. I get so loaded with nicotine that I’m dizzy by halftime.

I must say that even though Soccer is not very popular here in the states, I think it is one of the best sports around. Any sport that has 90 minutes of non stop action, commercial free, but can still end in a 0-0 tie, is okay in my book. Last night I watched a MLS game between Philiadelphia and Seattle, hell of a game. Philly built a $500 million stadium just for the team, and that place was sold out. I reallly hope that the fever continues and we have something else to watch during the summer besides Baseball.

hahaha i told you guys ! Its still hard to beat us.

Don’t get too cocky, AP, it’s still early.

Yeah i know, but tonight i saw some flashes of really good soccer in our team (the worst brazilian team that i have ever seen in a world cup) so, iam happy

England were robbed but deserved to lose we have been shit all tournament. The Germans look a bit unpredictable for me don’t know if they will beat Argentina but it will be a good game either way. The Germans play with no fear and don’t defend like a pub team. England were a disgrace the whole tournament and this lack of pride and passion is the reason I don’t watch the Premiership or professional football in general. I support a non-league team and non-league footy in general. IMO and this will never happen but hey ho money and greed should be taken out of the game. Why should an average footballer be paid 10 times more than a doctor or surgeon. It is absurd. All you Premiership glory hunters eg. Man Utd fans from London etc. support your local non-league club. There will be one near you and you will see a decent game for a decent price. Above all you will see sportsmanship, pride and passion which is a lot more than you can say for the PremiershiT. Stefan

Go on Stefan, mention the oldest footie club in the world again - you know you want to ;o)

LOL Brad ok then Sheffield FC www.sheffieldfc.com or www.behindtheflag.co.uk. Get yourself down to Dronfield and see us you could call at Wilson’s too if you like lol. Postcode for Satnav is S18 ???. Directions J29 M1 follow the road into Chesterfield, take the A61 north following the Sheffield signs(right at the first roundabout) go over 2 roundabouts at the third roundabout take the 3rd exit signposted Dronfield/Gosforth Valley, ground is at the bottom of the hill on the right hand side 1/2 mile down. Season ticket prices have been frozen at (I believe) £40 concessions £70 Adults or if you can only make the odd game £6 and £3 for entry. Am I winning any fans yet lol? Stefan

For 3 quid you sure are!

KIds and pensioners £3 no joke! Stefan

Hell even for 6 pounds, who can beat that!

Exactly what I’m trying to say why pay £50 for a passionless Premiership game, when you can see a decent game of footy for £6! Gotta be worth a go, hasn’t it? Support your local non-league club good footy,good price. You can talk to the players and management as people rather than millionaire snobs who couldn’t give a shit about the fans. Its all good folks make the switch you could be pleasently surprised. Stefan

Garrison games.

Well, Stefan, luckily soccer is becoming more and more popular in the states. I can’t wait until we get a club here, it’s only a matter of time.

Yes, it’s going to be tough for both sides, I think. Just hope the ref will be without blinkers and forget the yellow cards at home.

This afternoon I will be glued to the TV watching the first semi-final between The Netherlands-Brasil!! That is gonna be one match to remember I think!!

Brazil gol!

Yes! Well done Netherlands! I hope they can go all the way now. What a great game…my heart was pounding towards the end. Gonna go on a nice bike ride now and then celebrate with some Molens later:-)

Yes!!! WTG Netherlands.

What a game this was! Old style football, physical play and intimidation which Brazil couldn’t handle at least mentally. Unfair enough for Netherlands! They’re favourites now to win the Cup.

That they are, AllanH.

Bloody hell 2-1 to Holland!!! Looks like I missed a cracker Holland to win the cup now. Stefan

Tonight it’s up to Baghana Baghana to keep Africa’s hope up.

Aargh Ghana almost won, now penalties!

That was intense… Almost everybody I know wanted to see an African team in the semifinals, but I’m happy for Forlán. Such a talent deserves better than fighting for the UEFA spots in the La Liga.

Really sad for Ghana but fair play U-r-gay!

The time difference is making the whole World Cup thing kind of anti-climatic in the American West Coast. Argentina-Germany at 7 in the morning on a Saturday? I’ll raise my coffee and toast to the victor in the hope that they fall to the mighty Spain on Wednesday!

What the hell happened to us

In my opinion less star power than before (Robinho can’t hold a candle to the Ronaldinho of old), a key player past his prime (Kaká, sadly) and another one in bad shape (Luis Fabiano). Plus bad luck in the first goal. But you guys won before and will win again. It is inevitable.

yep bruteforce&ignorance 7 in the morning is early but a lot of bars still get crowded for certain games i am in southern california myself

Crowded bars ? Not half. I was in Houston while the 2002 World Cup was in progress. There was an England match which kicked off on a weekday morning at 0630. I checked with a British bar the day before that the match would be showing and turned up about 0615. The first signs that the place might be a tad busy was the fact that the rather large car park was completely full. I ended up parking in an insurance firm’s parking lot next door, figuring that I’d be gone by the time the working day started. Opened the front door to the bar and I literally couldn’t get in. The place was so full there was a wall of people standing jam-packed right up to the door. Couldn’t believe it. Ended up going back to the hotel and finding a Spanish channel which was showing the match.

Check Gerrrrmany!!!

What a Blitz!

I’m glad Aregentina have gone out just to see Maradona’s usual graceless comments regarding defeat. Hate that man. Stefan

Diego Armando is always right, even when he’s wrong. Love that man.

@Brad: The bars in the US have seen a surge in attendance for World Cup games. Some have to take reservations. Too bad it’s almost over!

I´m always quite sceptic when it comes to the German soccer team, but that display of skills against Argentina was just amazing. And the Spanish team didn´t convince me the slightest bit, yesterday. They played like pumped out old boys. But after all, they´re the current European Champions, so they should have something up their sleeves. It all seems like it´s leading to another Netherland vs Germany finale, like in 1974, which is nothing less than a classic. Would be fantastic.

looks like that psychic german octopus has picked spain to win … i got up early thinking the game was on at 7 .30 pppphhhhhhhh

psychic octopus http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup-2010/teams/germany/7874714/Germany-v-Spain-Paul-the-psychic-octopus-predicts-World-Cup-defeat-for-Joachim-Low.html

No, Germany will be the winner of the World Cup. You can put your money on them. Anyone who wants to know why I say this, whisper me your email address and I will mail you the proof.

Well, I CANNOT BELIEVE MY EYES !!! My money was on Germany. It will be Spain and Netherland in the finals. Jaap, I’m holding fingers crossed for you!

I think it´s Spain, yeahhhh. You wouldn´t believe the noise there is right now in front of my house!!!

Octopus Paul got it right and Spain won with brilliant play. Hope they win the Cup too.

Octopus Paul got it right and Spain won with brilliant play. Hope they win the Cup too.

Gotta go for the Netherlands.

yeah you see the octopus was right … hopefully no one took pieter up on his offer ( joke) i know a spanish girl and a dutch girl i said the winner can have me ha

Even though Van Bommel is a dirty player… I think Holland will take it.

Scorchio!

I don’t think Spain is going to let it go now. They have gotten tighter with each game, and they don’t depend on 2 players the way the Netherland does. Germany was the tough one.

@ Pieter: Thank you. If they win I’ll revive another historical snuff “Musino” a complex fermented Virginia snuff mixed with cinnamon, galgalant root, orange peels, fernambuk wood and flavoured with water of elderberry blossom and you will be the first who can tast it.

I thank you Jaap and now I will keep ALL my fingers crossed. Ek hou duim vas vir ONS span, ek is ook 'n Hollander!

@Jaap that sounds gorgeous can you revive it anyway lol? Stefan

It’s official… Holland all the way!

I had no interest in this thread, and favored no teams. Now that Jaap says he might make a celebratory snuff, I am pulling for Netherlands!

Holland to win. Spain are just to cocky for me. Don’t like them. Also there will be an Englishman at the world cup final… OK its the referee but never mind lol we can but dream. Stefan

@walrus1985: you are so right. Spanish football players are too cocky, almost to the point they believe themselves to be gods. I don´t feel attracted to football, but I hate the way they behave, especially when not playing football

Good. That way Jaap will make a new snuff. (That’s all I care about, really.)

@Micheltn, no, the octopus said Spain’s going to win.

Paul the Octopus is right: Spain is going to win because they’ve better players and better team. Really don’t like Dutch thugs like Van Bommel and De Jong, players like that shouldn’t be in a World Cup final.

Yeah the Dutch played good aggressive and defensive football and that was enough to make the final. Spain is much better actually playing the ball and can answer the Dutch courage. Germans didn’t have a chance even the score was only 1-0.

I’ve nothing against Spain but I’m rooting for Holland. I guess I just have a soft spot for them. I would love to see Robben unleash one of those left footed rockets for the final. Paul The Octopus has indeed picked Spain to win, but as the aquarium people said, Paul is a Germany expert and may not be accurate when it comes to other teams. He also picked Germany to take 3rd place but I’m hoping Uruguay will triumph.

@ Enrique I know you are Spanish but the way your players behave let that great country down. Not as much as our over rated, over paid incompetant shower of shit but still lol. Stefan

I dont think Im ready to talk about germany against spain. Sober Id tell you that you played better and deserved to win, but drunk Im still angry that you made my little brother cry.

@ Walrus: I completely agree with you @ GoldenBoy: I am sorry about your little brother. The only thing I can say is that I don´t like football very much, I didn´t watch the germany-spain match, but…I´d rather that Germany had won. The terrible noise started at about 10.30 pm, and it woke up my two sleeping beauties (my little daughters). So I suffered the after-match, too!

The World cup is screwing up my snuff delivery. The shop that supplies me with NTSU has been waiting 3 weeks for a shipment from SA and it only arrived today. Sod the football, wheres the snuff.!!

Congrats to Spain.

The “owner” of FIFA, Septic Bladder, is smiling all the way to the bank. He received R25 milliard out of the show.

I’m sorry Jaap, I did my best but the bloody octopus would not let go.

In england we are consistent. Not only did we produce a rubbish world cup team but we produced a rubbish referee. He is an ex copper (policeman) who complained in the english papers (before the match) that he couldnt control his children !

I rather thought Howard Webb called a good game. There was enough argy bargy and plain underhanded dirtiness from both sides to warrant several reds. But he kept that one in his pocket for the most part and allowed the players to stay long enough that he wouldn’t be the center of any legacy. If we want to be fair, Holland should have been at 9 men at the half and spain to 8 or 9 by game’s end.

@ Micheltn, I don´t know about the referee, but today I have read in the newspaper that every player has earned 600000 € for winning the world cup. That´s a lot of money, in a country that has been almost ruined by the crisis.

its that time again I started this thread last world cup

We have an Oranjesnuif for these occasions. Jaap Bes.

We have an Oranjesnuif for these occasions Jaap Bes.

That was an incredible and brilliant performance from the Dutch team against Spain. That Van Percy header was just WOW! Obvioulsy they were all using a lot of Oranjesnuff snuff!!!