FIFA World Cup 2010 - Predictions/Discussions/Updates

[AUSTIN316426808]

Why can't they play like this in the first half of matches?

[roshiq]

I think it's for away game rule but that's a bit disturbingly colorful jersey for Ghana. Ivory Coast had funny one against Brazil match. But liked the jersey colors in Ghana-Germany match...Black on white & White on Black.

Anyway, let's get back to the match...it's now Ghana-1 & USA-1! This game is getting pretty intense.

[_____V_____]

Why can't they play like this in the first half of matches?

They can't shake off their regular habit of sucking in the first halves and then getting a good hard kick in their asses during the break.

...only explanation I can think of.

[Angra]

I think it's for away game rule but that's a bit disturbingly colorful jersey for Ghana. Ivory Coast had funny one against Brazil match. But liked the jersey colors in Ghana-Germany match...Black on white & White on Black.
.


Roshiq, whatever it is you're smoking pass it over here. :p

[Angra]

They can't shake off their regular habit of sucking in the first halves and then getting a good hard kick in their asses during the break.

...only explanation I can think of.



They're all doped in the second half.

[roshiq]

Totally agree with V. They need the 1st 45 minutes to get the momentum in every game and then begins to play some class football.

[Angra]

Great match...

[_____V_____]

Great match...

Indeed. Some really fantastic football in the past 20 mins.

5 minutes remain...

[_____V_____]

Looks like we are headed for an extra double session of 30 minutes, people.

[roshiq]

I think Bob Bradley is one of the most coolest team managers in this tournament besides the Spanish and North Korean coach. :)

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #50 (ROUND OF 16 - #2) -

USA - 1
(Donovan *PK* 62')


GHANA - 1
(KP Boateng 5')


Fascinating football in the second half. USA looked SO much improved that its hard to believe they are the same team who got their asses cooked time and time again in the first half. Both teams went for broke during the final 15-odd minutes or so, but even 3 minutes of extra added time couldn't see any late goals.

We head into Extra Time. 30 more minutes - 2 halves of 15 minutes each.

If that fails to produce any goals, it will be the Shootout.

[_____V_____]

GHANA lead 2 - 1!!

[roshiq]

that's really a classic striker's goal! But they should allow him to continue his signature dance.

[roshiq]

so we have to wait for the 2nd half of extra time for USA to level the scoreline?

[_____V_____]

that's really a classic striker's goal! But they should allow him to continue his signature dance.

Pretty impressive guy, Gyan. Has all the makings of a solid striker for any team he plays with.


so we have to wait for the 2nd half of extra time for USA to level the scoreline?

LOL! Obviously...

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE OF EXTRA TIME -


USA - 1



GHANA - 2



That fabulous strike by Gyan in the 93rd minute put Ghana back in front again. Will USA again bring in the equaliser in the second half of ET? It looks very likely, given their track record. ;)

[AUSTIN316426808]

Plenty of class from Ghana with the phantom falls, but it's not like they're the only ones that pull that.

Anyway.. if this is it, I have to say it was a lot of fun while it lasted.

[_____V_____]

Plenty of class from Ghana with the phantom falls, but it's not like they're the only ones that pull that.

Anyway.. if this is it, I have to say it was a lot of fun while it lasted.

All's fair in love, football and war?

USA still has one last hurrah left...

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME - Match #50 (ROUND OF 16 - #2) -

USA - 1
(Donovan *PK* 62')


GHANA - 2
(KP Boateng 5')
(Gyan 93')


What a superb game of football! Easily one of the best of this WC so far. USA should be really proud of their showing in WC 2010. They bow out of this tournament with their heads held high.

Ghana march on, ahead into the Round of 8 - the Quarter Finals. They will face Uruguay next.

[scouse mac]

It was a good game but I don't think the US did themselves justice. They didn't play near to their potential but well done Ghana.

Its good an African nation is still in the competition.

[_____V_____]

On the hot-plate menus for tomorrow...


GERMANY - ENGLAND

ARGENTINA - MEXICO


Let's see some predictions.

The first one should be a real cracker of a match. I ll give a slight edge to Germany.

Argentina should have the second one covered though. Pretty safe bet.

Its close to 2 40 AM, folks. Good thing tomorrow is a Sunday.

Good night. Till we meet tomorrow!

[AUSTIN316426808]

All's fair in love, football and war?

Sure. I'm not a fan of it and it's frustrating, but in the end you do what you have to to win.

[AUSTIN316426808]

Let's see some predictions.



Germany and Argentina

[roshiq]

USA played some late entertaining football in this WC. Kudos to them for making it so far with plenty of drama & excitement.

And Ghana is surely the better side tonight and physically & tactically a great match for Uruguay in the quarter final. Congrats Ghana...congrats Gyan...want to see your fabulous dance move more in this tournament.:)

[roshiq]

On the hot-plate menus for tomorrow...




ARGENTINA - MEXICO

Argentina should have the second one covered though. Pretty safe bet.


I'm not so sure about that. Mexicans are also very attacking in the field, I think it'll be a pretty tight match while Argentina are not so convincing in their defense.

But anyway, let's hope for the best...GO ARGENTINA! I'll love to see some Messi-Massacre inside the Mexican D-box & goal post.

[Elvis_Christ]

http://www.qpr.co.nz/animations/shot.gif

[_____V_____]

20 minutes into the match...


ITS 1 - 0 TO GERMANY!!!


Miroslav Klose gets through some very shoddy English defense.

[_____V_____]

What a FANTASTIC EXTREME ANGLE for PODOLSKI!!!

Superbbbbbbbb Goal!!

2 - 0 GERMANY!

[_____V_____]

England pull ONE back!!

2 - 1, Germany still lead.

Superb curler in by Gerrard off a short corner kick, which is perfectly headed in by Upson.




...and seconds within that, ENGLAND HAVE BEEN DENIED A SURESHOT GOAL WHICH WOULD HAVE EQUALISED THE SCORE TO 2 - 2!!!


Lampard's shot ricocheted off the top part of the goal post and thundered between the post and the line 2-3 times before the GK caught it and ran out. Replays showed that the ball was most definitely IN!!


Sheer bad luck for England. Another bit of extremely poor refereeing.

[AUSTIN316426808]

Haven't seen a replay yet, but I'm pretty sure Lampard just scored right?

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -



GERMANY - 2


ENGLAND - 1



Hot-damn what an explosive 45 minutes just went by! And the score SHOULD be 2 - 2 damnit!

I hate these referees with my guts. :mad:


Haven't seen a replay yet, but I'm pretty sure Lampard just scored right?

Yes he sure did. The asses in the checkered shirts didn't allow it.

[_____V_____]

Germany lead 3 - 1!

[_____V_____]

Andddddddddddd...


ITS 4 - 1 TO GERMANY!!!

[Angra]

What an awsome game!!! :D

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #51 (ROUND OF 16 - #3) -

GERMANY - 4
(Klose 20')
(Podolski 32')
(Muller 67', 70')


ENGLAND - 1
(Upson 37')



Germany played some of their best football in this match, and deservingly took the win. Although a scoreline of 4 - 1 looks very flattering for them, because England's defenses were caught with their pants down more than once throughout the match.

Even though Lampard was denied what was a perfectly legitimate goal, the game was always Germany's from the beginning. They were clearly the superior side today, and it showed in their football and in the final score.

Germany march on, full of confidence and raring to clash against either Argentina or Mexico, which will be decided later tonight.

[ferretchucker]

YES! This will put an end to that stupid world cup dream over here. Germany deserved it, England didn't and I couldn't TAKE any more World Cup talk. Yes, it will continue but to a lesser degree.

[scouse mac]

YES! This will put an end to that stupid world cup dream over here. Germany deserved it, England didn't and I couldn't TAKE any more World Cup talk. Yes, it will continue but to a lesser degree.

way to support your nation FC!

Germany played extremely well and our defense was awful. The blatantly obvious goal from Lampard might have changed the direction of the game had it stood but I cant deny the Germans deserved it.

Argentina should roll them however (assuming they get past Mexico)

[Angra]

This has been the best day of WC football so far.

Really entertaining games.

[_____V_____]

What a fortuitous shot by Tevez!

Shot passed through by Messi while Tevez was CLEARLY offside!

A very VERY BIG glaring mistake by the referee!

All the protests of the Mexicans fell on deaf ears and after a brief period of discussion, the goal stands.


Nevertheless...

1 - 0 Argentina!

[_____V_____]

Make that 2 - 0 to Argentina!!

One of the Mexican defenders made a complete mess of a routine pass and Higuan put the ball coolly behind the GK.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


ARGENTINA - 2


MEXICO - 0



Yet another keenly contested first half. The scoreline could easily have read 2 - 1 to Mexico, but they fizzed out two absolutely wonderful chances at scoring the goal.
And that very controversial goal by Tevez, when he was quite clearly offside by quite some distance.

Its a shame and a disgrace to such a huge sporting event such as the World Cup that so many matches are marred/influenced by piss poor refereeing.
It's just one of those things which you don't want to see headlining the stats of a match once its over.

Both teams look pretty intense. Mexico will come out all guns blazing I suspect. Argentina should be thinking 1 more goal to get the match beyond them. I hope it ends with a closer scoreline than this.

[Angra]

I expect one big fight in the last half. Fist fight, that is.

It's gonna be brutal and it's gonna be GREAT!! :D

[_____V_____]

THE BEST GOAL OF WORLD CUP 2010 JUST CAME OFF A THUNDERING ZAPPER OF A SHOT FROM CARLOS TEVEZ!!!


3 - 0 to ARGENTINA!!

[Angra]

Sure, they can score goals...



FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!!

[_____V_____]

The only fist fight I can foresee will be after the match.

11 Angry Mexicans, 1 very angry Mexico Coach versus the 4 Referees. :D

[Angra]

the only fist fight i can foresee will be after the match.

11 angry mexicans, 1 very angry mexico coach versus the 4 referees. :d

Yes!! Great!!!

[_____V_____]

On a more serious note, think about this Angra...

Argentina will be taking on Germany in the Quarters.


Made your mouth water yet? :D

[_____V_____]

Andddddddddd Mexico pull ONE back!!


3 - 1

[Angra]

This has been the best day of WC football so far.

Really entertaining games.


Dude's right. :cool:

[Angra]

On a more serious note, think about this Angra...

Argentina will be taking on Germany in the Quarters.


Made your mouth water yet? :D



Can you say, bye bye Argentina. :D

It will be the best 4-4 match ever!!

[AUSTIN316426808]

Can you say, bye bye Argentina. :D

It will be the best 4-4 match ever!!

Dude's right again.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #52 (ROUND OF 16 - #4) -

ARGENTINA - 3
(Tevez 26', 52')
(Higuain 33')


MEXICO - 1
(J Hernandez 71')



Like Angra said, we had 2 fantastic matches today. Although they were pretty much dominated by one side in each match, nevertheless it produced some very impressive football from all 4 sides involved.

And the second goal from Carlos Tevez in this match is undoubtedly the best goal of the WC so far.

Mexico and England gave it their best shot, but eventually the teams with the more aggressive attacks on goal took the wins. Both losing teams need to find better defenders.

And FIFA needs to find some goddamn good referees. Disallowing the crystal clear goal by Frank Lampard in the first match, then allowing Carlos Tevez's first goal when he was clearly offside in the second match, pretty much sums up the refereeing in this World Cup so far. It feels like schoolkids have worn an uniform and come to become a ref here. Is FIFA listening yet?

And, like I mentioned, Argentina take on Germany in the Quarter-Finals. What a explosive treat that promises to be now!

[_____V_____]

Tomorrow's WC menu reads...


NETHERLANDS - SLOVAKIA

BRAZIL - CHILE


Let's see some predictions. I know who you will be siding with, though.

Given the form the Netherlands have shown, they should go beyond Slovakia. Don't see the Slovaks pulling any bunnies out of the hat for that one.

And Brazil should seal theirs against Chile. Slightly more tough match to predict than the first one, since Chile certainly won't be a pushover. It could turn out to be a close match. I am betting Brazil.

2 02 on the clock. Off to bed. G'night, all.

[AUSTIN316426808]

Netherlands and Brazil. Obviously.

[Angra]

Lets see some surprises.

Netherlands haven't amazed me yet, so..


Slovakia & Brazil.

[roshiq]

Oh, what a relief for a good Argentine football fan!

I was so tensed & worried about the game last night that I couldn't divert my attention to anywhere while watching the Mexicans were trying good & hard to send the ball into the Argentine net from the very beginning of the match.

But obviously the day with 2 great matches were bit ruined by those 2 completely wrong decisions. Unintentionally the referees are damaging the credibility of the game. It's now time for FIFA & everyone to think about it and come up with some alternatives & ideas.

Anyway, we can now easily say that the major QF will be the Germentina one. I hope Germany will return to that game like the way they did against Serbia after a cracking opening against Australia in the first match of Group stage and yesterday was their 1st match in Knock out stage. So you can now do the math.;)

It'll be the revenge time for Maradona & Argentina.:mad:

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


NETHERLANDS - 1
(Robben 18')


SLOVAKIA - 0


Well, after yesterday's two supercharged matches, today's first half felt dull and drawn out. Even the goal scored was a sudden burst of energy from Arjen Robben towards the Slovakian defense and he dodged and turned through 3 defenders and the GK to put the ball in the right corner of the net.

Otherwise, it was dull football. Surprising to see both teams not showing any energy in their play. It's like 2 tired teams content to play out the minutes. There just isn't any sort of momentum in the play yet.

Maybe the Slovaks will come hard at the Netherlands in the second half. Let's wait and see. Bet Angra was bored out of his wits with these 45 minutes.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #53 (ROUND OF 16 - #5) -

THE NETHERLANDS - 2
(Robben 18')
(Sneijder 84')


SLOVAKIA - 1
(Vittek *PK* 90' + 4')


The second half saw a WEE bit of surge in tempo and energy in the match. The Netherlands were more impressive than the Slovaks who looked sluggish throughout the whole match. They won a Penalty Kick in the penultimate minute of the second half (more like dying seconds of the game), and of course it was too little, too late by then.

The better team won. But Netherlands need to up their game a little bit more if they want to win over the likes of Brazil, who will most likely be their next hurdle.

[_____V_____]

Yeah right. :rolleyes:


FIFA says Argentine goal replay a mistake
June 28, 2010 20:27 IST

It was a mistake to show replays of Argentina's controversial opening goal against Mexico on giant stadium screens during Sunday's World Cup game, world soccer's governing body said on Monday.

The replay of Carlos Tevez's opening goal from a clear offside position sparked a melee during the game and at half-time rival substitutes squared up to one another behind the Mexican bench.

"This shouldn't happen," FIFA spokesman Nicolas Maingot told a news conference. "Replays can be shown but not when there are controversial situations. We will work on this and be tighter in future."

"It has worked so far very well. Last night was a mistake. It should not happen again," he added, declining to answer numerous questions on the contentious decisions made by referees and FIFA's rejection of goal line technology.

In another questionable decision that angered English fans on Sunday, England were denied an equaliser in their match against Germany when a shot from Frank Lampard hit the crossbar and clearly bounced behind the goal line.

FIFA is under increasing pressure to allow goal line technology or an extra referee behind the goal line to assist in such situations.

Spanish striker Fernando Torres said steps were needed to stop mistakes by officials altering the course of matches.

"We're tired of asking for technological help for these kinds of situations because they can determine something as important as whether you get knocked out of a World Cup," he told a Spanish radio station.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has rejected goal line technology repeatedly, saying he wants soccer to be played under the same rules at all levels and retain its human element.

[Angra]

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has rejected goal line technology repeatedly, saying he wants soccer to be played under the same rules at all levels and retain its human element.



We need a new president..

[_____V_____]

And BRAZIL HAVE THE LEAD!

1 - 0

[_____V_____]

Make that 2 - 0!

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


BRAZIL - 2
(Juan 35')
(Luis Fabiano 38')


CHILE - 0


Much, much better. I am so glad that the South Americans carry on their tradition of playing smooth, fluent and attacking football. Wiped out the memories of the slow, drudging first game of today already.
It was pretty much even-stevens for the first 30-odd minutes, with both teams having almost equal chances at each other's goals. Chile were surprisingly good in their repeated attacks, and pretty solid in defense.
Then the Brazil thunder struck. Twice. Within 4 minutes.
A superb corner cross by Maicon was headed in near to perfection by Juan straight past the GK into the net. 1 - 0 Brazil.
And as if in reply, Robinho made a superb run into the Chilean defense again and sent it to Kaka, who touched it gently to Luis Fabiano with the GK out. Fabiano dribbled it easily away and eased it nicely into the goal. 2 - 0.

And that's how the scoreline stayed till the whistle.

The two rapid goals rattled up the Chilean players a bit as they started fumbling and making some unforced errors. The break will do them some good in calming their nerves. Hopefully they will come out all guns blazing.

[Angra]

The two rapid goals rattled up the Chilean players a bit as they started fumbling and making some unforced errors. The break will do them some good in calming their nerves. Hopefully they will come out all guns blazing.


Doesn't matter. They're doomed. :cool:

[Angra]

Bye bye, Netherlands.

[_____V_____]

Why am I here?

Oh yes, now I remember...


3 - 0 BRAZIL!

Robinho scores!

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #54 (ROUND OF 16 - #6) -

BRAZIL - 3
(Juan 35')
(Luis Fabiano 38')
(Robinho 59')


CHILE - 0


Chile simply had no answer to the brilliance of their continental cousins. They were outplayed, outsmarted and out-thought in every aspect of their game. They did have some chances at pulling one back, but the game was always ahead of them.
Brazil were brilliant. After the first 30 minutes, they hit their stride and how! The finest example came from Ramires who made a breathtaking run straight through the heart of the Chilean defense and pierced it nicely, then turned it to Robinho who scored effortlessly in the 59th minute. Robinho went into the goal-scoring charts, but it was Ramires who effected it.
A small example of the immense confidence and self-belief Brazil are carrying with them. What the hell was THIS team thinking by playing out a dull goalless draw against Portugal?!

And I have to agree with Angra. It looks curtains for Netherlands in their Quarter-Final, seeing how red-hot Brazil are running at the moment.

btw, if you are feeling the faint, stirring rumblings of a Brazil - Argentina Final, I would say those are pretty deep and strong tremors you are feeling. Even though Germany or Spain might look to upset that applecart, nevertheless, if you are predicting that particular final, I am willing to side with you.

[_____V_____]

The final menu to be dished out in the Round of 16 menu reads...


PARAGUAY - JAPAN

SPAIN - PORTUGAL


Let's see your predictions.


On paper, Paraguay look solid. But the way Japan controls this controversial ball and those fantastic free-kicks in their last match will mean this could turn out to be a really tough encounter. I ll stick my neck out and still go with Paraguay.
And the second one will be another real cracker! Two teams who will go all out in their quest for victory. I ll say Spain have a slight edge, but it would be a real tough nut to crack Portugal. Still, I ll go with Spain for this one.
Two very nicely poised and even matches to finish off the Round of 16. Looks delicious.


Nite, folks.

[AUSTIN316426808]

Couple of tough picks to make.

I'm going against my initial two thoughts and going with Japan and Spain.

[Angra]

Paraguay
Spain

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


PARAGUAY - 0


JAPAN - 0


A pacy 45 minutes came to an end. Both teams had pretty much equal opportunities to score the first goal but missed them all, some by mere inches. Santa Cruz missed a superb chance to score, and Honda's long ranger flew across the goal when he had the GK beaten.

All of this promises to bring another explosive 45 minutes to follow. Let's see who breaks the ice first.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #55 (ROUND OF 16 - #7) -

PARAGUAY - 0


JAPAN - 0


Don't let that scoreline fool you. It has been 90 minutes of intense, fast and really good football so far. Both teams have squandered lots of opportunities at scoring the goal, and Japan has been the worse culprit of this than Paraguay.

We go into Extra Time, folks. Pray for a goal in the next 30 minutes, or we will be witness to the first Penalty Shootout of WC 2010.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE OF EXTRA TIME -


PARAGUAY - 0



JAPAN - 0


Hmm...dare I say that the Penalty Shootout looks very much a possibility? Match is locked in a stalemate.

Unless someone comes through with a moment of brilliance in the next 15 minutes, we go into it.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME - Match #55 (ROUND OF 16 - #7) -

PARAGUAY - 0


JAPAN - 0


Yep, I was right in my last post ^.

Angra should be happy now at last - PLENTY of goals coming up in a few minutes.

Yes that's right, folks - we now head into THE FIRST PENALTY SHOOTOUT OF FIFA WORLD CUP 2010!!!

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME + PENALTY SHOOTOUT - Match #55 (ROUND OF 16 - #7) -

PARAGUAY - 0 (5)


JAPAN - 0 (3)


Absolute jubilation for Paraguay, as they win the Penalty Shootout 5 - 3, and move into the Quarter - Finals of WC 2010 for the first time in their football history.

Heartbreak for Japan and their numerous fans. The players looked inconsolable and utterly dejected as most of them broke into tears of anguish. Komano was the only one who missed, as his shot curled upwards and hit the top part of the goal and rocketed outwards to his immense disbelief, and his miss sent Japan out of the WC. However, they should be proud of their showing in this WC, as they firmly registered their name as a team to be reckoned with.

Two very different emotions in the end, from what was a fantastic game of football between 2 equally talented teams.

[Angra]

. However, they should be proud of their showing in this WC, as they firmly registered their name as a team to be reckoned with.




They should be very, VERY proud. They managed to beat Denmark. Yes DENMARK!!

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


SPAIN - 0


PORTUGAL - 0


Honours stand even at the end of the first 45 minutes. Although Portugal had clearly the better chances at scoring, Spain did miss quite a few themselves. Both teams' defenses wouldn't be too pleased at some of the lapses they showed.
Portugal though look hungry and raring. Spain seems half-ignited so far. Villa and Torres have made runs, but don't look as menacing as they did in the previous games. Christiano Ronaldo is yet to leave an impact in this game. I think he will be hoping to make one.
I daresay it will take a blast of daring and innovative individual brilliance to break this impasse. Which individual it will be...is difficult to tell.
It could go either way, folks. Let's see what the next 45 minutes reveal.

[_____V_____]

1 - 0 SPAIN!!

Its VILLA TIME! :D

[Angra]

1-0

Blah....

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #56 (ROUND OF 16 - #8) -

SPAIN - 1
(Villa 63')


PORTUGAL - 0


Portugal started off the second half in fine style with two superb attempts at goal which fizzed out.
Then, something happened suddenly to the Spanish. They took their game to a whole new level and suddenly the red shirts were pouring again and again into the Portuguese half of the field.
Attacks were relentless as Sergio Ramos and David Villa kept the pressure up till the 63rd minute when Portugal's defenses were finally caught sleeping. Iniesta's shot came off a defender and David Villa was at the right position at the right time.
1 - 0 to Spain.
Then it was a matter of keeping possession, which the Spanish did well into the last 5-6 minutes when Portugal suddenly showed some desperation in their football. Another glaring mistake by the referee resulted in a straight Red Card for Portugal's Costa who wasn't even watching where his own arm was, in his desperation to head the curling ball into the goal. It maybe deserved a Yellow at best, but no way in hell was it a Red Card offense.
The scoreline stayed the same through the 3 minutes of extra time, and the one final assault by the Portuguese fell flat.
Celebrations for Spain. A frustrating loss for Portugal. Christiano Ronaldo was left as just a ghost of his self in the end.

Good but slightly disappointing match to finish off the Round of 16.

[_____V_____]

This will be the lineup for the Quarter - Finals, which tee off in 2 days' time...


NETHERLANDS - BRAZIL


URUGUAY - GHANA


GERMANY - ARGENTINA


PARAGUAY - SPAIN



Are you salivating at the 3rd match on the above list yet?

Well, the sides who have played better football than the rest and have shown some sort of adaptation to the controversial ball have advanced on. Brazil & Argentina look like THE teams to beat, although Argentina has a bit more tough road to go through if it makes into the big Final.

But that is still some way off. For now, let's see some predictions.

My picks - Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Spain, although the Argentina - Germany match could go either way. Really torn about that one but I ll side with my childhood favorite and give them a very slight edge, who is named as Lionel Messi.

Good night, folks.

[Angra]

Brazil
Spain
Uruguay
Germany

[scouse mac]

Argentina
Brazil
Spain
Uruguay

[roshiq]

netherlands 0 - brazil 3


uruguay 2 (1) - ghana 2 (0)


germany 2 - argentina 4


paraguay 0 - spain 2

[_____V_____]

Something to keep Angra happy, now that Denmark's gone for a long time and Netherlands is destined to follow suit -

http://guyism.com/2010/06/the-ultimate-guide-to-sexy-fans-of-the-world-cup-nations.html

;)

[Angra]

Something to keep Angra happy, now that Denmark's gone for a long time and Netherlands is destined to follow suit -

http://guyism.com/2010/06/the-ultimate-guide-to-sexy-fans-of-the-world-cup-nations.html

;)


Blah.............

[AUSTIN316426808]

Netherlands
Uruguay
Germany
Spain

[Angra]

Ghana-Uruguay 0-2

Brazil - Netherlands 3-1

[_____V_____]

Good evening, good morning...wherever you are across the globe. Folks, lick your lips in feverish anticipation, because it is...

QUARTER - FINALS time!!!!


Two HUGE matches tee off tonight, the first one in just over 50 minutes...it will be the uber-confident NETHERLANDS taking on the unstoppable BRAZIL.

Two fantastic teams in terms of football talent, but in execution you will have to agree with me that Brazil hold a huge edge over the Europeans. There has been a lot of talk in the past 2 days about both teams and their tactical plays but Brazil is known to come hard when the game really matters it, so I won't be surprised if many of you side with me when I say Brazil goes into their game as favorites.


The other match tonight will be URUGUAY taking on GHANA.

[Angra]

Does anyone know the Brazil line-up today?

Is Elano fit and playing?

[AUSTIN316426808]

Does anyone know the Brazil line-up today?

Is Elano fit and playing?

He's a sub today.

[_____V_____]

He's a sub today.

Ramires is also out due to two yellows.

Lucio, Maicon, Juan, Melo, Bastos, Gilberto Silva, Fabiano, Kaka, Robinho and Alves.

[_____V_____]

Netherlands are...IN A SHITLOAD OF TROUBLE!!!:D


1 - 0 BRAZIL!!

Robinhoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


NETHERLANDS - 0


BRAZIL - 1
(Robinho 10')


Whew! What a cracking half! 45 minutes of some of the finest, rough and pacy football you ll ever get to see.
Tempers started flaring within the first 5 minutes of the match itself, when Robinho yelled "FUCK YOU!" to one of the Dutchmen in loud and clear words. No love lost between the two teams, after all the tough talk in the past couple days which built up to this match.
And that superb 10th minute charge which saw Robinho blast the ball past the GK for the opening goal. He had earlier charged into the Dutch defense and scored too, but that goal was disallowed because of offside ruling.
The Dutch had some half-decent runs into the Brazilian half, but everytime Brazil's defenses stood firm. Lucio & Gilberto Silva particularly kept denying Arjen Robben & Wesley Sneijder any chances they might have had at the Brazilian goal.
And Brazil kept attacking right up to the half-time whistle. One of Kaka's turbo-charged shots was heading straight in, if the Dutch GK didn't get a last-minute hand to it to divert it away. And another blast by Maicon from the right saw the ball thud into the side of the net.
The ref was kept plenty busy with a lot of bookings in the first half itself. Both teams are on full-steam ahead mode, and they are not short of a word or two to each other. All in all, football at its most dynamic and roughest so far.
The second half promises to be a real cracker.

[_____V_____]

NETHERLANDS have THE EQUALISERRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!


1 - 1 PEOPLE!!

[AUSTIN316426808]

I disagree with the own goal. Seems like it was going in with or without the slight touch.

[_____V_____]

True, but they go with the final touch on the ball (if they see it). Ergo it is written as an Own Goal against Melo's name.

[_____V_____]

Would you believe THIS?!!!!!!!!!!

:eek:


THE DUTCH LEAD 2 - 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[AUSTIN316426808]

Well, he's got one now.

[_____V_____]

And the own goal scorer gets a straight Red!

Brazil down to 10 men, and trailing 1 - 2!

[scouse mac]

Brazil are showing their petulant side, they don't lose with dignity this lot. Still dangerous though with five mins left.

[AUSTIN316426808]

And the own goal scorer gets a straight Red!

Brazil down to 10 men, and trailing 1 - 2!

Wasn't he also right in front during Sneijder's header? He may have lost this one single-handedly.

[_____V_____]

Yep. He turned out to be a poor replacement for Ramires in the end.

3 minutes extra time, folks!

Brazil need an equaliser fast, or they go OUT!

[_____V_____]

Andddddddddddd


BRAZIL ARE KNOCKED OUT OF THE WORLD CUP BY THE NETHERLANDS!!!!!!!!!

[scouse mac]

Did not see that one coming.....................



Well done Holland

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #57 (QUARTER - FINAL #1) -

NETHERLANDS - 2
(Melo *OG* 53')
(Sneijder 68')


BRAZIL - 1
(Robinho 10')



What a cracker of a match we just witnessed! And nobody, I dare say not even the Dutch team themselves, would have predicted that Brazil would be beaten in this match.
But the Dutch did it. Brazil are OUT of WC 2010.
The half-time did some sort of wonders to the Dutch team. They came out all guns blazing and persistently hammered away at the Brazilian goal, and eventually the Brazil defense cracked.
A terrible, terrible mis-communication and mistake between Melo and Cesar the GK resulted in both going for the ball when it had been curled in by Sneijder, and before Cesar could grab it, the ball deflected off Melo's shoulder and headed straight into the Brazilian goal. 1 - 1.
That gave a real shot in the arms to the Dutch forwards. They pressed on repeatedly and complimented by plenty of lapses by both the Brazilian forwards and defenders, won a very crucial corner on the far side. The ball was curled in and Sneijder coolly headed the ball in. The score read 2 - 1.
That rattled the Brazilians no end. It was a pretty hot-tempered match from the beginning, and it suddenly became a ill-tempered one too.
Melo kicked out viciously at Robben's thigh and got red carded. Brazil's troubles worsened as they were reduced to 10 men, and they still needed the equaliser to force Extra Time.
In the end, it has to be said that Brazil lost their cool and their minds to play competitive football during the last 20 minutes. They kept losing the ball repeatedly and even a series of corner hits by Maicon and Dani Alves couldn't result in the equaliser. Robinho, Kaka and the substitute Nilmar could do nothing through the final minutes and when the final whistle sounded, it was HUGE celebrations time for the Netherlands.
Bitter disappointment for Brazil. WC 2006 had seen them lose to France in the Quarters, and here they were knocked out in the Quarters yet again. They will go back home with heads bowed, a proud team letting their hot tempers get the better of their exceptional football skills.
Netherlands should be really, REALLY hyped and super-charged now. By beating the #1 team in the world, they must be having the World Cup in their sights. The confidence that they can beat the best in the world will rub through their entire team, and they will be raring to take on any teams left.

[Angra]

Shitfuck!!

[_____V_____]

Shitfuck!!

ROFL!!!

I knew you would fall off your chair in the end. :D

[_____V_____]

And so we go into the second Quarter Final of tonight - GHANA taking on URUGUAY.

We already have had one HUGE upset earlier tonight...can Ghana do something similarly miraculous and pull off an against-odds win somehow?

With everything stacked against them, including the opinions and predictions of the football pundits, they have nothing to lose in giving it their best shot.

Let's see.

[FreddyMyers]

I hope Ghana gets destroyed.....but thats just me being a stubborn American

[_____V_____]

WHAT a FANTASTIC SUPER LONG RANGE SHOT!!!!


GHANA LEAD 1 - 0 at 1st Half Whistle!!

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


URUGUAY - 0


GHANA - 1
(Muntari 45' + 2')


Ghana always had that goal coming at anytime during the first half, TBH. They were clearly the better side on show as their attacks were relentless. The Uruguayans started off positively and looked really good for the first 20-25 minutes and had a few chances at goal, but once the Ghanaians started off, there was no stopping them.
The ball possession was almost equal between both sides but Ghana clearly had the better chances at goal.
One of the best efforts was an audacious overhead bicycle kick by Kevin Prince Boateng which sailed merely millimeters away over the top bar of the Uruguayan goal. An example of the confidence the Ghana team were carrying into this match.
And what a fantastic way to end the first half, with a terrific long ranger which had the Uruguayan GK lunge to his left just a wee bit late, after the ball had shot past him. Superb kick by Muntari.
Ghana will be coming out with more guns blazing, I suspect. As for the Uruguayans, they need to pull up their socks asap or their road to WC glory ends here tonight.

[_____V_____]

And what do you have to say about THAT AMAZING JAW-DROPPING FREE KICK FROM DIEGO FORLAN?!

WEEHAW!


Itsssssssssss 1 - 1!!!

[Angra]

I hope Ghana win this one.

Would be nice to finally have an african team in the WC semi finals.

[_____V_____]

Like I said, they are clearly the better side on show tonight.

And it would be a real mouth-watering prospect to see this Ghana team take on the Netherlands in the Semis!

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #58 (QUARTER - FINAL #2) -

URUGUAY - 1
(Forlan 55')


GHANA - 1
(Muntari 45' + 2')


Super match so far. Uruguay pulled one back through a wonderful free kick from Forlan from the near side of the box which curled in majestically and eluded the outstretched hands of Kingson, the Ghana GK and went into the net.
Truly, both the goals scored in this match so far have been absolute gems.
There was some truly frenetic action after that as both teams were desperate to get the winning goal. But they couldn't break the deadlock, even after 90 minutes and the added time.
We go into Extra Time, folks. 30 more minutes to see if a decider goal can be scored by either team. I dare say if and when it comes, it will be another moment of individual brilliance from someone.

[Angra]

Oh happy day!! :D

The Uruguay keeper looks japanese, don't ya think?



Uruguay..... sounds like something from Lord Of The Rings. :D

[_____V_____]

Could be a cross-breed.

I am really impressed with Kingson, the Ghana GK. It would help his career immensely if he is signed up with one of the top clubs after WC 2010. Looks like a GK with plenty of potential.

[Angra]

Could be a cross-breed.

I am really impressed with Kingson, the Ghana GK. It would help his career immensely if he is signed up with one of the top clubs after WC 2010. Looks like a GK with plenty of potential.


If he's good enough he COULD join a danish team. :p

[_____V_____]

If he's good enough he COULD join a danish team. :p

And be a part of a losing side? No thanks! :D

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE OF EXTRA TIME -


URUGUAY - 1



GHANA - 1


Hmm...I don't see either side relenting. A Penalty Shootout looks very likely, folks. Let's hope not.

[Angra]

And be a part of a losing side? No thanks! :D


Most definitely. And fuck you! :D

[_____V_____]

And fuck you! :D

Only when Denmark wins again. :D

[Angra]

WOW!!!

Penalty!

Missed penalty!!


That's fair. No more Ghana penalty wins.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME - Match #58 (QUARTER - FINAL #2) -

URUGUAY - 1


GHANA - 1


Oh my GOD!!

What a bunch of SUPERCHARGED 2-3 minutes to end Extra Time!!!


Wow!


Ghana were standing right in front of the Uruguayan goal and hit 3 times with the GK nowhere near and just TWO defenders standing in front! The first header was parried off, and the second thundering header was PALMED OFF by an Uruguayan defender who was promptly shown a straight RED CARD!

And the Ghana team got a PENALTY KICK!!!

Gyan, the most impressive Ghana player on show throughout the match, came forward to take the kick. And would you believe it?! He hit it straight up to the top bar of the goalpost, and the ball flew up and over!!!


Dare I say a jaw-dropping end to an extremely charged up 30 minutes of Extra Time!


We go into the Penalty Shootout, folks. Only the second time in this WC so far.

[Angra]

Damn Ghana... you were so close. :(

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME + PENALTY SHOOTOUT - Match #58 (QUARTER - FINAL #2) -

URUGUAY - 1 (4)


GHANA - 1 (2)


Heart-breaking, is the best emotion to describe these moments. Not only for a nation but for an entire continent.

Ghana, you will be missed. Thank you for the wonderful memories of some truly outstanding and fantastic football you displayed in WC 2010. Be proud of your showing, sons of Africa.

Wonderful scenes of wild celebrations for the former two-time Champions though. The Uruguayans should be over the moon right now, because they have made into the Semis of a WC after a VERY long time.

Too bad that such an outstanding match had to come to this and had to be decided by the Penalty Shootout. Uruguay was always fancying their chances in it because they are more experienced in Shootouts than Ghana, who sadly found their Penalty Kick skills lacking.

In the end, you are left with one single thought - What if?...What if Gyan had converted that last minute Penalty Kick during Extra Time?

What if...indeed.

[_____V_____]

Tomorrow's other two Quarters will be...


ARGENTINA - GERMANY

SPAIN - PARAGUAY


Let's see if you are still sticking to your original predictions.


Even after the shocking defeat of Brazil today, I am still going with my original choices for the final 2 Quarters - Argentina & Spain.

It has been a very unpredictable WC in many departments though, and takes some real nerves of steel to sit through some of these absolutely delightful and stunning matches. But this is what WC football is all about. Nervy, edgy, gritty and pacy.

Until tomorrow, folks. Good night!

[Angra]

[b]

In the end, you are left with one single thought - What if?...What if Gyan had converted that last minute Penalty Kick during Extra Time?

What if...indeed.



When will that penalty taker be able to sleep? When indeed.. :rolleyes:

[_____V_____]

When will that penalty taker be able to sleep? When indeed.. :rolleyes:

Not tonight for sure. He was totally inconsolable when the match was over.

My heart went out to him. Poor guy. Easily the best player Ghana has produced so far.

That PK will haunt him for days...who can give any sort of solace to him I wonder?

[Angra]

Not tonight for sure. He was totally inconsolable when the match was over.

My heart went out to him. Poor guy. Easily the best player Ghana has produced so far.

That PK will haunt him for days...who can give any sort of solace to him I wonder?



Oh well, I'm sure he has a goat in his village he can sacrifice. :D

YES, I'm an ass!! :p

[roshiq]

So...now do we have to wait for a Netherlands-Germany final? :mad:

Damn you, Brazil, you had a easy road to final and you have ruined it with unnecessary high temper & shockingly less ball possession than the Netherlands. Anyways, you'll be missed in the final IF my favorite Argentina CAN make their way to final.:confused:

"This is painful. It's a miserable pain," said a sobbing, bikini-clad Maria Elisa as she left Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana beach where about 20,000 fans, most wearing canary-yellow, endured the 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands shown on a giant screen.

"Felipe Melo shouldn't spend his vacation in Brazil," Ronaldo, the former striker who led Brazil to its most recent World Cup title in 2002, wrote on his Twitter.

Here (http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/38062719/ns/sports-world_cup/)'s the detail reaction report from the Brazilians after their defeat in 1st QF of WC 2010.

[neverending]

Isn't this little game over yet? Seriously, this thing takes longer than one of V's tournaments!

[Angra]

Isn't this little game over yet? Seriously, this thing takes longer than one of V's tournaments!

We're aaalmost there. Just one more week to go.

[roshiq]

hehehe...sometimes I think it'd better if they could make the 2nd round in a group format like the 1st round (I even made a fixture like that once) instead of the existing knock-out round of 16.:)

[Angra]

hehehe...sometimes I think it'd better if they could make the 2nd round in a group format like the 1st round (I even made a fixture like that once) instead of the existing knock-out round of 16.:)

Yea, like the former Champions league.

Sure was a shit lot of matches.

[AUSTIN316426808]

True, but they go with the final touch on the ball (if they see it). Ergo it is written as an Own Goal against Melo's name.

FIFA took it away and gave the goal to Sneijder. One of the few officiating decision they've gotten right all month.

[scouse mac]

FIFA took it away and gave the goal to Sneijder. One of the few officiating decision they've gotten right all month.

The general rule for OGs is if the shot is on target before it hits the opponent then the player gets his goal. If the shot is off target and the deflection from a defending player sends it goalwards the its counted as an OG.

[_____V_____]

FIFA took it away and gave the goal to Sneijder. One of the few officiating decision they've gotten right all month.

One of the very rare bright spots of what has been a terrible world cup for FIFA and all its officials.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


ARGENTINA - 0



GERMANY - 1
(Muller 3')


I know this is an unexpected scoreline at the end of 45 minutes, but Germany were clearly playing better football and the score could easily have read 2 - 0 or even 3 - 0 in Germany's favor, if they had made the most of some very good chances at goal.
Argentina look out of sorts and pretty jaded so far. Even Messi hasn't been in the best of touches, but hopefully the second half will provide some real fireworks from them. Maradona should come hard at his team during this break, and they will be raring to equalise asap.
And an early goal in any match is only an indicator of some more goals to come.
A mouth-watering 2nd half awaits us.

[_____V_____]

Andddddddd GERMANY ARE UP 2 - 0!!!


Where art thou, Argentina? Will this be curtains for them too?! :eek:

[_____V_____]

Oh my...


ITS 3 - 0 NOW!!!!!!!


Surely the final nail into the Argentinian coffin. Vive la Chancellor!! :eek:

[_____V_____]

4 - 0!

Germany have ripped Argentina apart!

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #59 (QUARTER - FINAL #3) -

ARGENTINA - 0


GERMANY - 4
(Muller 3')
(Klose 68', 89')
(Friedrich 74')



And how many of us predicted THAT result and THAT scoreline?

Nobody.

Argentina were caught with their pants down in every aspect of the game. Their defenses were shoddy and they kept losing possession repeatedly, plus letting the German forwards so many times into their half cost them dearly. Messi, Higuain and Tevez were barely visible - and everytime they looked a very pale version of themselves. It has been a really forgettable World Cup for most of the star players of all teams, particularly for Messi who ended WC 2010 without a single goal. Even though they started the second half very strongly, once they conceded the second goal they simply collapsed and withered. Totally.
Argentina have nothing to take away from this, except a big bagful of humiliation and a fuming Maradona all the way back to Buenos Aires.
Germany were simply exemplary. They were very clearly the better team today and they showed it in their football. They had all the Argentinians marked and Muller, Schweinsteiger & Boateng were simply brilliant. Klose was his usual flamboyant self and he was spoon-fed a goal which had the Argentinian defense torn to shreds.
Michael Ballack must be really delighted watching from the lines. Caught a glimpse of Charlize Theron looking on, too.
Germany look very strong and very determined. They should have a HUGE boost of confidence now that they have beaten one of the best teams in the world, and with that thumping margin.

[Angra]

I DID predict Germany would go through to the semis. But i had 4-4 and a penalty shootout, so.. Was halfway right. :rolleyes:

[_____V_____]

Make that 12.5 % correct.

:D

[AUSTIN316426808]

I picked 'em both and don't see why Netherlands and Germany going through to a semi final is so shocking. If Paraguay beat Spain that would be a big upset, but hearing Germany beat Argentina and Holland beat Brazil doesn't sound so unbalanced.

[_____V_____]

I picked 'em both and don't see why Netherlands and Germany going through to a semi final is so shocking. If Paraguay beat Spain that would be a big upset, but hearing Germany beat Argentina and Holland beat Brazil doesn't sound so unbalanced.

I think the shock is more related to the form the teams have shown in the WC till now.

Sure, a Brazil loss was in the cards but the way they lost without even giving a fight till the end and stretching the game into extra time was unexpected. That too after displaying some cracking football throughout the tournament.

The bigger shock came through this Argentina defeat. 4 - 0?! You don't expect a team like the Argentinians to take such a pasting. They were well and truly thumped, just like a big team beating some minnows in Round 1 - say like Brazil drubbing North Korea or something.

A scoreline of 2 - 1 is halfway acceptable by Brazilian standards (maybe), but losing 4 - 0 when you are regarded as one of the top 4 teams of the world and have the Golden Boot of the Year holder in your ranks...it's a stinging defeat.

I guess it all came down to the teams who played more as a team than just a bunch of individually talented players. That's why teams like Uruguay and Paraguay made it this far. And a main reason why Germany and Netherlands managed to upset the applecarts and all calculations of the football pundits.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


PARAGUAY - 0



SPAIN - 0


Well, both teams are holding strong in their defenses so far.
Spain has had more of the possession but it's been Paraguay who have played the more attacking football of the two. Valdez scored for them but was ruled offside so the goal didn't count.
Paraguay looks impressive.
Spain needs to wake up and soon. I think we might have a late goal in this one and that will be the decider. And expect a burst of individual brilliance to provide that.
Need I point that over 50 percent of all fans watching the match right now will be predicting David Villa to come through again? That should include some worried and fearful Paraguayan fans too.
We shall see.

[Angra]

I think the shock is more related to the form the teams have shown in the WC till now.




That indeed.

[Angra]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


PARAGUAY - 0



SPAIN - 0


Well, both teams are holding strong in their defenses so far.
Spain has had more of the possession but it's been Paraguay who have played the more attacking football of the two. Valdez scored for them but was ruled offside so the goal didn't count.
Paraguay looks impressive.
Spain needs to wake up and soon. I think we might have a late goal in this one and that will be the decider. And expect a burst of individual brilliance to provide that.
Need I point that over 50 percent of all fans watching the match right now will be predicting David Villa to come through again? That should include some worried and fearful Paraguayan fans too.
We shall see.



In short... BOOOORIIIING!!!

[_____V_____]

PENALTY to PARAGUAY!!!

[_____V_____]

ANDDDDDDDDDDD it's SAVEDDDDD!!!!


Would you believe it?! :D

[_____V_____]

AND NOW A PENALTY to SPAIN almost IMMEDIATELY!!

Whoa...wtf?!

[_____V_____]

Shot is ruled illegal!

Shot is taken the SECOND TIME, and its SAVEDDDDDDDDD!!!


Weehaw, the game just got a real SHOT IN THE ARM!

[_____V_____]

How many times do you get to see TWO Penalty Kicks given within a minute of each other to both sides, and BOTH being SAVED?! :D

Quite a rare event in football, that one.

[roshiq]

One of the most disgraceful & shameful results in the history of WC football...specially for the Argentina fans. They also lost against Germany in the last WC QF but that was more honorable defeat than today. Even the no. 1 team of the world (according to the FIFA ranking before this WC starts)..Brazil lost yesterday against the Dutch but that was also a more reasonable & acceptable defeat than this one. Yeah...you can either lost or win in any game after playing so much attacking & promising football all through the tournament but how come a team with so much caliber get defeated in such a miserable way!?!:mad:

Anyway, it's getting a bittersweet experience to see when almost all the big names & teams of World football started to forgetting how to play this beautiful game then the Germans starts to showing & teaching them its definition, types of passes & goals with examples & magics.

Congrats Germany, you deserve the Cup this time.

[Angra]

Now, These last couple of minutes has been fairly entertaining. :D

[AUSTIN316426808]

I think the shock is more related to the form the teams have shown in the WC till now.

I see what you're saying, but Brazil wasn't so surprising. They were too confident, didn't know what to do with themselves once they went down, and started playing like a bunch of pissed off kids. And yes, the Netherlands hadn't been impressive, but they did what they had to in order to win all their games. After the second goal yesterday they settled pretty well, but up until that point they didn't look any more or less vanilla than they did all tournament. If it doesn't wow you that doesn't mean it isn't good play.

On the other hand, I don't think anybody thought Argentina would lose the way they did. They were just out of sorts from beginning to end.

[roshiq]

The referee is on dope through his whistle. :D

[Angra]

The referee is on dope through his whistle. :D


God bless him. :D

[_____V_____]

I see what you're saying, but Brazil wasn't so surprising. They were too confident, didn't know what to do with themselves once they went down, and started playing like a bunch of pissed off kids. And yes, the Netherlands hadn't been impressive, but they did what they had to in order to win all their games. After the second goal yesterday they settled pretty well, but up until that point they didn't look any more or less vanilla than they did all tournament. If it doesn't wow you that doesn't mean it isn't good play.

On the other hand, I don't think anybody thought Argentina would lose the way they did. They were just out of sorts from beginning to end.

True. They stopped playing football when they conceded the own goal, and the second one only added to their frustrated ego-play. Too bad, because they are a very talented bunch. Just need that flair back.

Agree with the Holland part too. Not impressive, but effective. The fact that they held out Brazil till the end wins a big point in their favor.

Team play has been a huge factor in this tournament, apart from the FIFA referees.

[_____V_____]

AND THERE WE GO!!!!!!!

Its DAVID VILLA AGAIN BABY!!!!!!!!! :D


1 - 0 to Spain! Weehaw!

[roshiq]

Now that's may call a bar-to-bar goal.:)

Anyway, Eusebio & Muller can now confirm the golden boot winner, I guess.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #60 (QUARTER - FINAL #4) -

PARAGUAY - 0


SPAIN - 1
(Villa 83')



I was right in my half-time prediction of a late goal being scored and that being the decider of the game in the end. And was it surprising that it would come off the legs of a certain David Villa?
Spain are through into the Semis, and lock up a date with Germany. Should be one hell of a cracker.
Paraguay tried a different combo this time by bringing in Oscar Cardozo instead of Roque Santa Cruz for this match, because of Cardozo's goal scoring reputation and because Santa Cruz has been ineffective in the previous 3 matches he started so far. Wrong decision, because Cardozo was far from impressive. They tried out Santa Cruz as a substitute in the second half, but by then Spain had gained the momentum and the decider all but sealed Paraguay's fate.
And that fantastical minute in-between which saw TWO Penalties being awarded to both teams and both failing to score?! What a moment indeed.
Although Paraguay did score but it was deemed ineligible because of encroachment inside the penalty box. The second effort was saved by Casillas.
All in all, a more entertaining second half which ultimately went to Spain, the deserving winners. Paraguay go home with their heads held high, because they performed exceedingly well in WC 2010.

[_____V_____]

And so folks, we go into the big SEMI-FINALS after yet another 2-day break in WC 2010...


NETHERLANDS - URUGUAY


GERMANY - SPAIN


After all the unpredictability WC 2010 has provided so far, it would be a brave heart to keep predicting away and guessing correctly, but then what would a hotly-anticipated set of matches be without any predictions?

Let's see them.

My picks - Netherlands and Germany.

Uruguay are a very talented side and play some solid team football but Netherlands should be very capable of shooting them down, now that they have edged out Brazil.

And Spain has been super impressive too. Iniesta, Ramos and Xabi Alonso combine with David Villa superbly to keep getting Spain past their opponents.

But you have to wonder about Villa's luck running out sometime?
Or maybe the law of averages catching up with him?

The dude is running on some really solid steaming form right now but can that be good enough to take Spain past a side who is both young, hungry and raring to tear you apart? Not to mention that their main forward, Fernando Torres, looks woefully out of form and has been repeatedly substituted by Fabregas in almost all of Spain's matches.

Germany have looked unstoppable, and apart from that shocker against Serbia in the group stages, pretty formidable too. All their players are young, fit and in superb form and they all compliment Miroslav Klose pretty nicely. So much so that a certain Michael Ballack hasn't been missed so far.

Either way, the second Semi-Final should provide some real fireworks on the field. One of the best matches of this WC, I daresay.

And finally, with THREE European teams in the fray right now, it would be a safe bet to assume one of them will take the WC home.

Good night, folks.

[roshiq]

I'll be glad if Spain wins the Cup, it'll be fair if Germany becomes the champion and it won't be surprising at all now if Netherlands finally wins for the first time but I have a feeling that Uruguay will lift it for the 3rd time.:D

[Angra]

Uruguay (Coz that side of the knock-outs has been quite unpredictable)
Germany (Coz they deserve it)

[scouse mac]

Germany are playing easily the best football, 4 goals in three of five games so far. Spain have been disappointing and yet are still through to the semi-final which says alot about their durability. The winner will come from the Germany Spain match, probably Germany.

[AUSTIN316426808]

Still going with the Netherlands.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


URUGUAY - 1
(Forlan 41')


NETHERLANDS - 1
(Van Bronckhorst 18')

[_____V_____]

Make that 2 - 1 to NETHERLANDS!!

Wesley Sneijder strikes!

[_____V_____]

Muhahahahahaha!!!!!!!


3 - 1 NETHERLANDS Woohoo!!! :D

Robben joins the partyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

[_____V_____]

3 - 2 in the 2nd minute of Added Time!!!

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #61 (SEMI - FINAL #1) -

URUGUAY - 2
(Forlan 41')
(Pereira 90' + 2')


NETHERLANDS - 3
(Van Bronckhorst 18')
(Sneijder 70')
(Robben 73')



First things first - hearty congratulations to Netherlands for going into their first World Cup Final since 1978.
Well, the first half was pretty much even in terms of possession and attacks, though Uruguay made several charges forward they only got the equaliser when a thundering Forlan kick hit Stekelenberg's hands and still went into the goal. That was after Giovanni Van Bronckhorst's superb 18th minute free kick which curled into the right corner of the Uruguayan net.
The second half started off well, but soon the Dutch were in their stride. They dominated possession as well as were the more attacking of the two sides, relentless in their pursuit of the second goal which came in the 70th minute off a low shot by Wesley Sneijder which sneaked past the GK into the net. And merely minutes later, Arjen Robben decided to join the party and converted a superb ball in by Kuyt into a fantastic header which hit the inside of the post and curled inwards to the dismay of the wrong-footed Uruguayan GK.
It seemed all over by then, and even a late minute surge by Uruguay to score a 2nd goal in Extra Time and getting a few seconds more than the scheduled ET couldn't delay nor change the inevitable.
The Dutch are in the Finals.

In anticipation of the fantastic 2nd Semi-Final tomorrow, between Germany and Spain. Should be a humdinger of a match.

Good night, folks.

[Angra]

Good game.:)God damn.:(GOOD GOD!!:eek:

[scouse mac]

Looking forward to tonights match, Im going to give the Germans the edge in this one but if Torres can finally step up to the plate and start scoring the Spanish can take them. The quality both teams have in the midfield should make for a great battle.

The dream final would be Holland-Germany, with the fierce rivalry adding extra spice to the game. Should be good :)

[Angra]

The dream final would be Holland-Germany, with the fierce rivalry adding extra spice to the game. Should be good :)

Most definitely.

[roshiq]

There's always first time for every thing...so best of luck for Spain & Netherlands.

The Germans scored 4 goals against Australia, England & Argentina...to carry & remember 'the pain of getting knocked out from the tournament so miserably' till the next WC starts in Brazil. 4 goals for next 4 following years. What a merciless showcase from the Germans! Can they repeat it again tonight?

Come on Spain, stop this German-Genocide!:mad:

[_____V_____]

Come on Spain, stop this German-Genocide!:mad:

They certainly have the German fortune-telling octopus called Paul on their side...

http://sports.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/jul/07/slide-show-1-football-world-cup-2010-specials-paul-octopus-predicts-germany-defeat-against-spain.htm

Considering how football fanatics in Germany follow this unique fortune-teller...

http://sports.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/jun/30/slide-show-1-football-world-cup-2010-images.htm


...he might be right tonight. :cool:

[_____V_____]

Most goals so far -

David Villa, Spain - 5*
Wesley Sneijder, Netherlands - 5**
Miroslav Klose, Germany - 4*
Thomas Muller, Germany - 4*
Robert Vittek, Slovakia - 4
Diego Forlan, Uruguay - 4
Gonzalo Higuain, Argentina - 4
Asamoah Gyan, Ghana - 3
Landon Donovan, USA - 3
Luis Fabiano, Brazil - 3
Luis Suarez, Uruguay - 3
Lee Jung-Soo, Korea Rep. - 2
Lukas Podolski, Germany - 2*
Keisuke Honda, Japan - 2
Elano, Brazil - 2
Javier Hernandez, Mexico - 2
Kalu Uche, Nigeria - 2
Lee Chung-Yong, Korea Rep. - 2
Brett Holman, Australia - 2
Tiago, Portugal - 2
Carlos Tevez, Argentina - 2
Arjen Robben, Netherlands - 2
Robinho, Brazil - 2


(*Can still add to their tally)

(**The first goal in the Netherlands - Brazil quarter-final was originally listed as an own goal by Brazil's Felipe Melo. However, on Saturday, July 3, FIFA's Technical Study Group awarded it to the Netherlands' Wesley Sneijder.)

[Angra]

(**The first goal in the Netherlands - Brazil quarter-final was originally listed as an own goal by Brazil's Felipe Melo. However, on Saturday, July 3, FIFA's Technical Study Group awarded it to the Netherlands' Wesley Sneijder.)


I'm sure at least 2 people are VERY happy about that.

[AUSTIN316426808]

It might be a stretch, but I'm not bailing on German now.

[Angra]

I like how Spain are playing. Very agressive.

Haven't seen them playing like this in this World Cup.

[scouse mac]

I like how Spain are playing. Very agressive.

Haven't seen them playing like this in this World Cup.



Still quite a cagey start though. The Germans only need one sniff of a counter attack to score but Spain look energetic for the first time this WC

[roshiq]

Lately read on an article that how culturally diverse the players of this German team are...Tunisian, Polish, Turkish! even the name of one of them sounds like Japanese. :D

[scouse mac]

Lately read on an article that how culturally diverse the players of this German team are...Tunisian, Polish, Turkish! even the name of one of them sounds like Japanese. :D


And yet one of only three teams in the WC where all the players play in their home league, they have no-one playing abroad.

[AUSTIN316426808]

I like how Spain are playing. Very agressive.

Haven't seen them playing like this in this World Cup.

I think that's due to every team they've played so far being very defensive. They just haven't had the room they do now.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


SPAIN - 0


GERMANY - 0



Quite an engrossing first half came to an end. Spain were clearly the more dominant team in terms of possession and attacks, but the German defense held firm. Klose and Podolski had a few runs into the Spanish half but nothing concrete came out of them yet. Ozil claimed a Penalty just before the whistle sounded, but was waved away by the referee. Replays showed that it was quite a dubious call, and the referee was pretty soundly placed to call it.
As expected, Torres started the SF on the bench. Don't count him out though, he might still come in the second half if Spain are desperate enough to need him.
I have a feeling there will be some goals coming in the second half. Yes...SOME goals. At least two, maybe more. Expect this one to end on a real explosion, folks.

[_____V_____]

Anddddddddd itssssssssssssss 1 - 0 TO SPAIN!!!!!!!

Of all people, its Carlos Puyol's header!!!

[roshiq]

Bravo Puyol! Bravo Spain!

Germans conceded a goal first only once earlier in this WC so far and that was against Serbia. And you know the rest.:)

[AUSTIN316426808]

I don't know why Germany changed what they were doing, but it just got 'em third place. Damn good run though, and definitely the most entertaining team of the tournament.

[roshiq]

Oh Pedro, why are you so selfish? That was a clear chance for goal given away for the personal glory.:mad:

[AUSTIN316426808]

Bravo Puyol! Bravo Spain!

Germans conceded a goal first only once earlier in this WC so far and that was against Serbia. And you know the rest.:)

Villa only started up front by himself once against Switzerland, so so much for that logic.

[_____V_____]

I don't know why Germany changed what they were doing, but it just got 'em third place. Damn good run though, and definitely the most entertaining team of the tournament.

Well, they are certainly a bit flat tonight. Not only were they fighting for possession, but they were letting some easy Spanish runs into their half as well. Sorry to say, but they had that goal coming via some poor midfield handling.

And yes, Pedro should have passed to Torres right there to seal Germany's fate for good.

[roshiq]

Villa only started up front by himself once against Switzerland, so so much for that logic.

:D Villa? where he's now? There is no Villa at the moment for Spain.:D

[_____V_____]

Woohoo baby!!!


SPAIN ARE INTO THE FINALS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[roshiq]

Hurray! Bravo Paul the octopus! You have become the No.1 fortune teller in the world now, I guess:D

[Angra]

Kill...that...squid. :mad:

[Angra]

Hurray! Bravo Paul the octopus! You have become the No.1 fortune teller in the world now, I guess:D

Probably because everyone else are phonies. :D

[roshiq]

I don't know why Germany changed what they were doing, but it just got 'em third place. Damn good run though, and definitely the most entertaining team of the tournament.

Ditto, no doubt about that. I think this young German team will be very...very dangerous in Brazil'2014.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #62 (SEMI - FINAL #2) -

SPAIN - 1
(Puyol 73')


GERMANY - 0



Many, MANY congratulations to Spain for making into their VERY FIRST FIFA WC Final in their footballing history!

It was their match from the beginning, when they bossed possession and made plenty of daring runs into the German half again and again. The Germans for their part looked solid in defense, but maybe that caused their downfall. TOO much concentration in defending, plus some poor midfield play which kept letting the Spanish players coming in.
Klose, Podolski and the rest never looked menacing at all - in fact Klose was seen only 2-3 times during the entire match. A big point in Spain's favor to keep the ball away from the more dangerous German players.
The first half was engrossing, and the second was loaded with desperate stuff. A fantastic extreme angle cross went inches away from David Villa's touch or it would have been the first goal right then and there.
Then came that superb header from Puyol who stood unmarked behind the German players and coolly sent the ball into the German net. 1 - 0 Spain.
As the final 15 minutes came in and Germany suddenly found themselves desperate for an equaliser, the breaks became tougher for them to handle. Villa had at least 2 break-runs but couldn't capitalise on either, and Pedro had a really FANTASTIC run through the break with Torres in full support and only the German GK to beat, but instead of passing to Torres which would have resulted in a sure-shot goal, decided to go for glory himself and fizzed the awesome chance at scoring.
As expected, Villa came off in the 81st minute and was replaced by Torres in the final minutes of the game. Germany kept plugging in as much as they could, but Spain held their nerves, defenses and the 11 Germans at bay to register their very first march into a FIFA World Cup Final in their footballing history.

It will be the NETHERLANDS taking on SPAIN in the Finals, folks. Before that we will see GERMANY take on URUGUAY for 3rd place. And judging by the way Germany played tonight, if they show the same form they might end up in 4th place. They certainly need to show their fantastic form of beating Argentina if they want to finish 3rd in what has been a great tournament for them.

Good night.

[_____V_____]

Claude Arpi, an ardent French football fan, sent this email to Ivan Crasto, rediff.com's Sports Editor -

Dear Ivan,

A bit tired, but relieved. Paul the Octopus was right.

Yesterday, while I was skyping a friend in Germany to get an idea of the atmosphere there, I mentioned the latest prediction of Paul (Spain in final), he scoffed at me: Do you still believe this bullshit?! Come on, we are living in the 21st century.

He pointed out a more scientific prophecy giving the Germans victory. It was simple and mathematic -

1. Brazil won the World Cup in 1994; they also won in 1970 (1970 + 1994 = 3964).

2. Argentina won its last World Cup in 1986 and they had also won in 1978 (1978 + 1986 = 3964)

3. Germany won its last World Cup in 1990 and they also won in 1974 (1974 + 1990 = 3964)

4. Brazil won the World Cup in 2002 again and also in 1962 (1962+ 2002 = 3964).

Therefore to calculate which nation was going to win the World Cup in 2010, you only have to subtract 2010 from the magic number that has thus been determined: 3964. (3964 minus 2010 = 1954)

Who won the World Cup in 1954? Guess! Yes, Germany!

Simple, Dr Watson!

Unfortunately for the Mannschaft and 80 million Germans, Paul's divination was correct and mathematical statistics were left red in the face.

True, while watching the match, it did not seem to be the same Mannschaft playing.

We had seen Joachim Loew's team playing against England and Argentina (scoring four goals each time); where were those confident, dynamic young chaps, always moving forward, always daring in front of the opposite goal? Where did they disappear to?

Though the coach wore the same fetish blue polo shirt, (unwashed, it seems!), something was different.

A German friend watching with me explained that probably because of Paul's prediction, they were timorous (not to say paralyzed).

Well, it is an explanation, but there is another one. Spain was simply better.

They were organized, passing fast and with precision and had decided not to let the young White shirts play.

The great tactician Vicente Del Bosque probably knew that if he could avoid an early German goal, the Roja had a good chance to get their first visa for a World Cup final, (for the Dutch, it is not a first, having already participated (unsuccessfully) in the 1974 and 1978 finals).

The first half was a festival of good passing (it is probably linked to the fact that 6 of the original line-up plays with FC Barcelona, the Barca).

The German timorousness is shown by the few faults, nasty tackles or tough pushing witnessed during most of the match.

Did you realize that the tall Hungarian referee Viktor Kassai did not distribute a single Yellow Card during the entire match?

It is a first in this competition. Sixteen faults for the entire match (9 for Germany, 7 for Spain) prove the fair-play of the players, but also the lack of aggressiveness of the Mannschaft (despite the high stakes).

For 45 minutes, not only did the Roja dominate the proceedings, but had several occasions to open the score. After the pause, same tempo. But anything could have still happened at this point in time.

At the 58th minute, David Villa misses again a chance on a superb center from Iniesta, always dangerous. Will the same scenario continue till the end of the full time? It was not to be! No, at the 73rd, 3 players of the Barca participate to the decisive strike.

On a corner by Xavi, Puyol goes high in the air above his teammate Gerard Pique and sends a powerful header in the corner of Neuer's post. The German keeper can't do a thing.

During the remaining 16 minutes, the Germans feebly press their luck, but it is too late and the fire is not there.

Pedro could have increased the tally when he does not have the intelligence to pass to substitute Torres facing Neuer alone; instead he tries to dribble past Arne Friedrich on his own.

Would the Germans have equalized, Pedro would have regretted his selfish action for the rest of his life.

The Roja undoubtedly merited to be in the Last Two. If they play this type of football, it will be a tough proposition for the men of Van Marwijk to lift the Trophy.

Seven countries have got the Golden Grail so far: Uruguay (twice), Italy (4 times), Germany (thrice), Brazil (5 times), England (once), Argentina (twice) and France (once). On Sunday night, at the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg, an eighth team will enter its name in annals of football.

Voila, two well-merited rest days before the final for the third place (is it so important to be third or fourth? One usually remembers the winner and the finalist and the semi-finalists) and then the Great Day.

Did you notice that one does not notice the vuvuzelas anymore?

With Olés, Olés

Claude.


PS: Everyone makes fun of the French these days, but Yoann Gourcuff, the Bordeaux mid-fielder (who was unjustly expelled during the match against South-Africa) has been elected the cutest player of the World Cup 2010. Next in line (but far behind) Roque Santa Cruz, Paraguay; Favio Cannavaro, Italy (I don't understand ladies); Rafael Van der Waart, Holland and Carlos Bocanegra, USA. Ronaldo is only 6th.

A fair compensation for us French boys!

[scouse mac]

Apparently Paul the Octopus has predicted Germany to beat Uruguay in the 3rd/4th place play-off and Spain to beat Holland in the Final.

[Angra]

Apparently Paul the Octopus has predicted Germany to beat Uruguay in the 3rd/4th place play-off and Spain to beat Holland in the Final.



Geez.. I could've told you that. :cool:

[_____V_____]

I am with the German boys to take 3rd.

As for the big Final, something tells me the Netherlands will spring a surprise. Spain should head in as slight favorites now that they are in it, but the Dutch have it in them to pull one over their European rivals, fortune-telling octopuses aside.

I ll go with the Netherlands.

[roshiq]

Thank God, Paul already picked Spain for the Final. Now that's a great relief!

But the Spanish prime minister pretty much concerned about him (http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Spanish-prime-minister-wants-to-protect-psychic-?urn=sow,254710) as some frustrated German fans expressed their desire to kill/eat Paul, the psychic Octopus!

:D:D

[_____V_____]

Itssssssss 1 - 0 GERMANY!!!

MULLER scores his 5th of this WC!

[_____V_____]

URUGUAY equalise through Cavani!!!!

1 - 1 after a terrific counter-attack, and in the first 28 mins!

[scouse mac]

I missed this game due to work but sounded like a great match. Germany get Bronze with a barnstorming 3-2 win.

Easily the most entertaining team in the finals, they are going to be the ones to beat come Euro 2012.

[DP McCoy]

Can't believe it's Final day already,how quickly did the last four weeks go?

Anyway,I will pick Spain to become champions Today,I expect their fluent passing game will be too much for the Dutch to deal with.It will be interesting to see if Torres is in the starting line up,I personally would leave him on the bench and continue with David Villa up front with Iniesta and Pedro wide.One stat that is against the Spanish is that no team has won the tournament after losing their opening game,but there are Lies, damned lies, and statistics as they say.

Hope it's a great game.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #63 (3RD PLACE PLAY-OFF) -

URUGUAY - 2
(Cavani 28')
(Forlan 51')


GERMANY - 3
(Muller 19')
(Jansen 56')
(Khedira 82')



Apologies for getting cut off right in the middle of the match last night. My computer's power unit decided to go kaput, and had to get it fixed all morning and afternoon.

It was a fantastic match. Both teams shed off any sort of lacklustre stuff everyone thought they would bring to the table, and they fought tooth and nail for the 3rd spot honor. Germany started the scoring through Muller, when Schweinsteiger's long ranger was parried straight to him in front of the goal by the Uruguayan GK, and Muller made no mistake. Cavani equalised for the Uruguayans in the next 9 minutes through Suarez who fed him easily in front of Butt, the German GK.
And that was the half-time score. 1 - 1, honors even.
The second half started as brightly as the first. The Germans looked menacing and relentless, but it was Forlan who broke through their defenses when a superb curler by Rios came straight to him and he blasted it acrobatically past a wrong-footed Butt who was caught napping. 2 - 1, Uruguay in the lead. But the celebrations lasted for the next 5 minutes only, because Boateng's superb kick sent the ball inside the box which the GK failed to collect and Jansen headed it right into the goal. 2 - 2, scores level again. Then both teams played some really attacking football but couldn't break through either's halves till the 82nd minute when a corner kick by Ozil was tamely cleared out by Lugano only to Khedira who headbutted the ball straight past the Uruguayan GK into the goal. 3 - 2, Germany in the lead.
The final chance of the match came in the dying seconds of extra time, when Uruguay won a fantastic free-kick right at the edge of the box, on the semi-circle. Forlan came forward to take it, and his fantastic hit beat the German wall and the GK fair and square, but hit the top post and flew outside. That was when the final whistle blew.
A great end to an equally wonderful match. Germany won rightfully, but they were stretched to the final limit by a great Uruguayan team who should be proud of their showing in WC 2010. Germany get the medals, Uruguay get the ovation.


And onwards, to the final match of WC 2010 tonight, the BIG FINAL - SPAIN takes on THE NETHERLANDS.

Till then...

[zwoti]

henry - passed it. ribery has been playing well for bayern so he might have a good tournament. france will probably be undermined by their manager domenech again.

kaka - not been playing well, absent from the real team recently. but brazil have so many good players that they should progress.

forlan - not expectin anything from him, not expecting anything from uruguay.

lampard - how many deflections and penalties can 1 man get. rooney is the main man for england.

klose - does he play anymore, can't get into the bayern team anymore, like gomes.

robben - been playing very well, holland if they click will do well.

japan, paraguay, cameroon - not expecting anything.

drogba - class player (pains me to say this).

ronaldo - very good player, but the rest of the team not enough to progress far.

italy - too old

spain - the team to beat, class players.

argentina - brilliant individuals, but a team? i'd say no, and maradona doesn't help any.

seems like i was pretty close :cool:

[_____V_____]

seems like i was pretty close :cool:

Except for Forlan, Rooney, Klose, Paraguay, and Japan. :D

[_____V_____]

ARE...YOU...READYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY HDC?!


We kick off the FINAL in 35 minutes!

And damn am I EXCITED or WHAT!

[zwoti]

Except for Forlan, Rooney, Klose, Paraguay, and Japan. :D

forlan, klose and paraguay i'll admit.

someone had to qualify from group E with the dutch, and it wasn't going to be the danes :p

as for rooney, i said he'd be the main man for england..as he was. he was shit and so were england :mad:

[_____V_____]

10 minutes into the big Final...

0 - 0 so far.

One SUPERB save by Stekelenburg, the Dutch goalkeeper, in the 5th minute.

Spain holding more possession, and looking more attacking.

[_____V_____]

20 minutes into the big Final...

Its still 0 - 0.

2 Yellow cards, one of them to Puyol. Just the 4th for a Spanish player in WC 2010.

Just as I say this, 2 more Yellows given within 2 minutes. Game is getting pacy and rough!

[_____V_____]

30 minutes in...

0 - 0 so far.

Lots of midfield play, no breaks. Honors even.

Although De Jong was lucky to get away with a Yellow for his very blatant high boot to Xavi Alonso's chest.

[_____V_____]

40 minutes in...

Still 0 - 0.

One very cheeky corner kick taken by the Dutch could have resulted in a lot of trouble for Casillas if the final pass was dealt with more effectively.

And one nice run by Pedro resulted in him hitting wide of the Dutch goal.

Fouls are being committed left and right. Expecting more Yellows, and possibly a resultant Red, maybe in the second half.

[_____V_____]

HALFTIME WHISTLE -


NETHERLANDS - 0


SPAIN - 0



Casillas pulled off a superb save to deny a Robben dart which was headed straight into the right corner of his net.

And that was the only highlight of the final 5 minutes (plus added time) of the first half.

Engrossing, pacy and plenty of rough football so far. The Dutch are negating the possession tactic of the Spanish quite effectively, which had worked so well for Spain in their Semi Final against Germany.

An entralling second half awaits.

[_____V_____]

10 minutes into the second half (55 minutes gone)...

0 - 0 still.

2 more Yellows dished out - 5 in total for the Dutch this game.

A superb corner kick saw Puyol head the ball nicely to Capdevila's feet but he totally missed it and out went a great chance to make the opening goal.

A Final of fouls, this one.

[roshiq]

Before any goal I'm expecting a Red card for any Dutch player.

[_____V_____]

20 mins in (65 mins overall)...

It's still 0 - 0.

Iker Casillas might have pulled THE save of the tournament for the Spanish when a very inocuous ball to Robben saw him break free from the rest and make a fantastic dash towards the Spanish goal with nobody in sight except Casillas. Robben's shot was headed in but Casillas came out and stretched with all his might, and his right foot diverted the ball away from the Spanish net. A huge sigh of relief for the Spaniards.

More Yellows shown. It ll be a miracle if we go to 22 Yellows by the end of this game, I tell you.

[_____V_____]

30 mins in (75 mins overall)...

Still 0 - 0.


David Villa missed a SUPERB chance to make it 1 - 0 for Spain when he had the ball and the GK literally at his feet, but his hit was too high. Disappointing by Villa standards.

[_____V_____]

40 mins into the 2nd half (85 mins in)...

0 - 0.

Game is getting very rough, and very pacy, as both sides are relentless and desperate in their search for the deciding goal.
Just to give you an idea of how rough it has been in this match, 35 free kicks have been awarded so far, and 22 of them have been given to the Spanish.
Robben again broke out into a fantastic run, but was denied by Puyol and Casillas.

This looks like it will head into Extra Time, folks.

[Angra]

If Spain doesn't win I think I'll start to cry.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME - Match #64 (THE BIG FINAL) -

NETHERLANDS - 0


SPAIN - 0



And we are into Extra Time. 30 more minutes to find the decider(s).

[roshiq]

sooo frustrating! I don't know but it seems Paul's prediction won't come true tonight.:(

[_____V_____]

HALF-TIME OF EXTRA TIME -


NETHERLANDS - 0

SPAIN - 0


Fabregas had at least 2 super chances to score the much-elusive goal, but was throttled both times. Navas also had a great chance to score but hit the side of the net.

Nothing for the Dutch in the first 15 mins of ET.

[_____V_____]

And FINALLY, ANDRES INIESTA SCORES FOR SPAIN!!!


1 - 0 to SPAIN!

2 minutes remain for Spain to win the WC 2010!

[roshiq]

It's really great to see the best player of today's Spanish squad scored the goal.

[_____V_____]

FULL TIME + EXTRA TIME - Match #64 (THE BIG FINAL) -

NETHERLANDS - 0


SPAIN - 1
(Iniesta 116')



MANY CONGRATULATIONS TO SPAIN for winning the FIFA WORLD CUP!!!

THE WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS OF 2010!!!


...for the very FIRST time in their footballing history. Deserving winners for sure.

The Netherlands will be inconsolable losers. They gave it their best shot but came 2nd best, in the end.


That will be all, folks. For all of the updates on FIFA WC 2010, check the first two posts of this thread. Good night.

[roshiq]

Nope! not Spain, PAUL is the real champ of this World Cup.:D

[Jacob Singer]

....ESPAÑA!!! just a couple of beers for all.

[roshiq]

FIFA WORLD CUP 2010 Golden Ball Winner: Diego Forlan (Uruguay)

FIFA WORLD CUP 2010 Golden Shoe Winner: Thomas Muller (Germany)

[DP McCoy]

I'm glad the Spanish won,the Dutch players seemed more interested in kicking their opponents than kicking the ball.Well done Spain.

Now roll on the start of the Premiership season,c'mon Harry's Hotspurs !