FIFA World Cup 2010 - Predictions/Discussions/Updates [Archive] - Horror.com Forums

_____V_____

05-31-2010, 07:43 AM

The mega event which happens every four years, and is followed by intense interest by plenty of fans around the globe. Here at HDC too we have followed WC 2006 closely before (Zwoti and Austin made sure we did!), and its about time we had this thread open for discussing the same.

This year, the Football World Cup is being hosted by South Africa. 32 teams are in the fray, split into 8 groups of 4 teams each. The huge tournament kicks off on June 11th, and the Final will be played on July 12th.

Which means one whole month of kickass, nail-biting, intensely fought football.

I hope that like last time, Zwoti and Austin will pop in again and put in their opinions and updates for all the football fans in HDC.

These are the team groupings - (Updated points along with the Goals Differences {Goals Scored MINUS Goals Conceded} in the Group Standings are given alongside them)

Group A

URUGUAY : 7 (+4) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (A1)
MEXICO : 4 (+1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (A2)
South Africa : 4 (-2) (Eliminated)
France : 1 (-3) (Eliminated)

Group B

ARGENTINA : 9 (+6) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (B1)
KOREA REPUBLIC (aka SOUTH KOREA) : 4 (-1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (B2)
Greece : 3 (-3) (Eliminated)
Nigeria : 1 (-2) (Eliminated)

Group C

USA : 5 (+1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (C1) (on basis of more Goals scored)
ENGLAND : 5 (+1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (C2)
Slovenia : 4 (0) (Eliminated)
Algeria : 1 (-2) (Eliminated)

Group D

GERMANY : 6 (+4) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (D1)
GHANA : 4 (0) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (D2)
Australia : 4 (-3) (Eliminated)
Serbia : 3 (-1) (Eliminated)

Group E

NETHERLANDS : 9 (+4) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (E1)
JAPAN : 6 (+2) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (E2)
Denmark : 3 (-3) (Eliminated)
Cameroon : 0 (-3) (Eliminated)

Group F

PARAGUAY : 5 (+2) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (F1)
SLOVAKIA : 4 (-1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (F2)
New Zealand : 3 (0) (Eliminated)
Italy : 2 (-1) (Eliminated)

Group G

BRAZIL : 7 (+3) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (G1)
PORTUGAL : 5 (+7) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (G2)
Ivory Coast : 4 (+1) (Eliminated)
Korea DPR (aka North Korea) : 0 (-11) (Eliminated)

Group H

SPAIN : 6 (+2) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (H1)
CHILE : 6 (+1) <--- QUALIFY FOR ROUND OF 16 (H2)
Switzerland : 4 (0) (Eliminated)
Honduras : 1 (-3) (Eliminated)

Fixtures and teams to follow.

_____V_____

05-31-2010, 07:47 AM

This is the whole schedule of FIFA World Cup 2010 - (I will be updating this post regularly throughout the WC)

Group A

01 : [11/06] Mexico [1] - South Africa [1]
02 : [11/06] France [0] - Uruguay [0]
17 : [16/06] Uruguay [3] - South Africa [0]
18 : [17/06] France [0] - Mexico [2]
33 : [22/06] Mexico [0] - Uruguay [1]
34 : [22/06] France [1] - South Africa [2]

Group B

03 : [12/06] Nigeria [0] - Argentina [1]
04 : [12/06] Greece [0] - South Korea [2]
19 : [17/06] Greece [2] - Nigeria [1]
20 : [17/06] Argentina [4] - South Korea [1]
35 : [22/06] Nigeria [2] - South Korea [2]
36 : [22/06] Greece [0] - Argentina [2]

Group C

05 : [12/06] USA [1] - England [1]
06 : [13/06] Algeria [0] - Slovenia [1]
22 : [18/06] USA [2] - Slovenia [2]
23 : [18/06] England [0] - Algeria [0]
37 : [23/06] England [1] - Slovenia [0]
38 : [23/06] USA [1] - Algeria [0]

Group D

07 : [13/06] Germany [4] - Australia [0]
08 : [13/06] Ghana [1] - Serbia [0]
21 : [18/06] Serbia [1] - Germany [0]
24 : [19/06] Ghana [1] - Australia [1]
39 : [23/06] Ghana [0] - Germany [1]
40 : [23/06] Serbia [1] - Australia [2]

Group E

09 : [14/06] Denmark [0] - Netherlands [2]
10 : [14/06] Japan [1] - Cameroon [0]
25 : [19/06] Japan [0] - Netherlands [1]
26 : [19/06] Denmark [2] - Cameroon [1]
43 : [24/06] Japan [3] - Denmark [1]
44 : [24/06] Cameroon [1] - Netherlands [2]

Group F

11 : [14/06] Italy [1] - Paraguay [1]
12 : [15/06] Slovakia [1] - New Zealand [1]
27 : [20/06] Slovakia [0] - Paraguay [2]
28 : [20/06] Italy [1] - New Zealand [1]
41 : [24/06] Italy [2] - Slovakia [3]
42 : [24/06] Paraguay [0] - New Zealand [0]

Group G

13 : [15/06] Portugal [0] - Ivory Coast [0]
14 : [15/06] Brazil [2] - North Korea [1]
29 : [20/06] Brazil [3] - Ivory Coast [1]
30 : [21/06] Portugal [7] - North Korea [0]
45 : [25/06] Brazil [0] - Portugal [0]
46 : [25/06] Ivory Coast [3] - North Korea [0]

Group H

15 : [16/06] Chile [1] - Honduras [0]
16 : [16/06] Spain [0] - Switzerland [1]
31 : [21/06] Chile [1] - Switzerland [0]
32 : [21/06] Spain [2] - Honduras [0]
47 : [25/06] Spain [2] - Chile [1]
48 : [25/06] Honduras [0] - Switzerland [0]

Round Of 16

49: [26/06] URUGUAY [2] - SOUTH KOREA [1]
50: [26/06] USA [1] - GHANA [2] (**Extra Time**)
51: [27/06] GERMANY [4] - ENGLAND [1]
52: [27/06] ARGENTINA [3] - MEXICO [1]
53: [28/06] NETHERLANDS [2] - SLOVAKIA [1]
54: [28/06] BRAZIL [3] - CHILE [0]
55: [29/06] PARAGUAY [0] (5) - JAPAN [0] (3) (**Penalty Shootout**)
56: [29/06] SPAIN [1] - PORTUGAL [0]

Quarter - Finals

57: [02/07] NETHERLANDS [2] - BRAZIL [1]
58: [02/07] URUGUAY [1] (4) - GHANA [1] (2) (**Penalty Shootout**)
59: [03/07] GERMANY [4] - ARGENTINA [0]
60: [03/07] PARAGUAY [0] - SPAIN [1]

Semi - Finals

61: [06/07] NETHERLANDS [3] - URUGUAY [2]
62: [07/07] GERMANY [0] - SPAIN [1]

Third Place Playoff

63: [10/07] URUGUAY [2] - GERMANY [3] <--- GERMANY WIN 3RD PLACE

THE FINAL

64: [11/07] NETHERLANDS [0] - SPAIN [1] <--- SPAIN ARE 2010 WC CHAMPIONS!!!

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

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

FIFA WORLD CUP 2010 Golden Glove Winner: Iker Casillas (Spain)

You can also visit the official page, and click on the small clock icon on the top to see your local times - http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/index.html

TheWickerFan

05-31-2010, 09:18 AM

I've been married for 22 years to an Englishman (still the hottest man in the world!!) so I have watched 5 World Cups (never watched sports before I married him; now I watch all the popular American sports AND all the popular English sports). I see the U.S. and the U.K. are in the same group this year. I guess I'll have to divide my loyalties this time.

_____V_____

05-31-2010, 09:27 AM

ferretchucker

05-31-2010, 10:06 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

Ferox13

05-31-2010, 10:18 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

Rugby is for sofities - now Vale Tudo thats a real sport.

TheWickerFan

05-31-2010, 10:37 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

I'll be sure to tell Vinnie Jones you said that.

ferretchucker

05-31-2010, 10:38 AM

Vinne Jones lost any self respect with his infamous low blow! Bring it ooooooownnnn!

PlagueBearer

05-31-2010, 11:10 AM

No Zidane magic this year, still im gonna stick to France - wont top last WC surprise though...

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TheWickerFan

05-31-2010, 11:13 AM

Vinne Jones lost any self respect with his infamous low blow! Bring it ooooooownnnn!

I'm not entirely sure what you're talking about; please explain.

ferretchucker

05-31-2010, 01:30 PM

Grabbing and squeezing Gascoignes balls to put him off during a football game.

Zero

05-31-2010, 01:33 PM

portugal wins

TheWickerFan

05-31-2010, 01:43 PM

Grabbing and squeezing Gascoignes balls to put him off during a football game.

True, Vinnie Jones was a dirty player, but hardly a sissy.

You mentioning this incident had me stumble on the news about Paul Gascoigne's mental state. Very sad.

Karl Kopfrkingl

05-31-2010, 05:52 PM

I don't know much about soccer but it seems that sportscenter show some sick play by Leo Messi every week so I'm betting Argentina to win at 8-1.

_____V_____

05-31-2010, 07:43 PM

With Messi in full flow, Argentina is a pretty safe bet.

Well, WC 2010 is already abuzz with plenty of happenings right now.

Germany have lost as many as 5 players to injuries so far, including their captain and key player Michael Ballack.

Some pretty glaring omissions by Brazil for their final squad.

Plus, a new "perfectly round" tournament ball which is giving most of the goalkeepers and players plenty of sleepless nights.

Meanwhile, goalkeepers in particular are getting more vociferous about the official ball to be used at the tournament.

Italy striker Giampaolo Pazzini felt it was a "disaster" for both goalkeepers and forwards because it is so light and moves around so much.

Spain keeper Iker Casillas has likened it to a beachball.

Italy counterpart Gianluigi Buffon described the ball as "absolutely inadequate", while Brazilian Julio Cesar has said it was like one purchased in a supermarket.

Angra

05-31-2010, 09:30 PM

_____V_____

05-31-2010, 10:23 PM

Wayne Rooney (England)

Highly temperamental. No doubting the immense talent he brings to the equation, but can he keep his temperament in the big stage? He was a big flop in 2006, after coming into it with a rich vein of form even back then.

David Villa (Spain)

Good pick, but has been known to be hit-and-miss. I was going with 1 pick per team, and between Villa and Torres, I d rather go with the latter for sheer energy and skills to get those goals in.

Spain is gonna win the World Cup and Argentina is gonna flop once again.

The one team which has the best National League of the world (arguably) in the La Liga and some of the best regional teams in the world in Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, et al, yet have consistently failed to impress on the big stage.

I really hope you are proven right this time, bud. Its about time Spain did some serious ass-kicking in the WC once again.

Angra

05-31-2010, 11:38 PM

Highly temperamental. No doubting the immense talent he brings to the equation, but can he keep his temperament in the big stage? He was a big flop in 2006, after coming into it with a rich vein of form even back then.

Good pick, but has been known to be hit-and-miss. I was going with 1 pick per team, and between Villa and Torres, I d rather go with the latter for sheer energy and skills to get those goals in.

The one team which has the best National League of the world (arguably) in the La Liga and some of the best regional teams in the world in Barcelona, Real Madrid, Athletico Madrid, et al, yet have consistently failed to impress on the big stage.

I really hope you are proven right this time, bud. Its about time Spain did some serious ass-kicking in the WC once again.

The same can be said about Argentina. Amazing players individually, but as a team they always have difficulties against strong opponents.

Villa was stand out exceptional 2 years ago in the European Championship and Rooney has been the best player together with Messi in this years Champions League (annual european club tournament), so i've got high expectations for both of them.

TheWickerFan

06-01-2010, 01:45 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

I see.http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/01/30/article-1132365-033EB206000005DC-816_233x220.jpg

roshiq

06-01-2010, 04:03 AM

First of all, a big thanks to V for opening this thread.:)

FIFA Word Cup has always been the most favorite tournament since 1986 Maradona Magics. That was my first seen WC but I supported Brazil that time for the first & last time. Anyway, very often I like to have a funny debate with my father regarding 'The Best Sport on Earth: Football or Cricket' (as he loves to watch any game of cricket very much)...even last night while we were talking about the England-Bangladesh test match with frustration & anger, in the end I added 'anyway, I have now no time for think about Cricket anymore, the most boring game...it's only 10 days left for the biggest tournament of the greatest sport on earth!" He almost yelled at me in the reply.:D Most of the time I have a bad tendency to 'annoy' the favorite people around me.

Now, let's come to the point...WORLD CUP'2010 South Africa:

As the venue this time is outside Europe so the 'record' says...NO EUROPEAN TEAM IS GOING TO WIN THIS TIME. :D

Therefore, after eliminating all the European teams, among the rest of the world BRAZIL & ARGENTINA is having a good chance with their record under this weird possibility scenario.

Personally I have doubts about Argentina though it's my most favorite team. They have individually very talented players but I'm not sure how good they have been become as a team. Let's hope after a long time we'll gonna see some magics from Maradona as a coach to unite the team in a great understanding & support for each other in the field. I think Messi become the most talked about footballer currently this time around the world not just for his own skills or talents but also for the support he got from some of his brilliantly talented team mates in Barcelona...specially do they have a great play maker like XAVI in Argentine WC Squad? I hope there is.

It's really been a sad to know that there will be no Ronaldinho around this time for Brazil. He's a one of the very favorite players in football. I'll miss in him in yellow-green/blue jersey. I think Brazil has the best goal keeper (Julio Cesar) at the moment in the world with a good defense including Maicon (Inter Milan) & Daniel Alves (Barcelona) to watch out that has a good chance to produce some entertaining football & finally win the cup. I think there will be some surprises in both positive & negative way from Dunga's squad.

I also hope & predict an African team to be one of the quarter-finalist at least.

As a good football fan all I want to see some very tight & competitive matches and some magics in the field by the players from any team.

In last WC I supported Argentina, Portugal, Spain & Italy. But this time no Portugal as there is no Figo, now my favorites are...Argentina, Spain, Italy & Ivory Coast (just for Drogba).

Like Spain I like to mention Netherlands & England...for the last couple of WCs the teams who have regularly been playing like the potential candidates to win the cup but always got knocked out with some bad lucks.

PlagueBearer

06-01-2010, 04:13 AM

I hope for some african teams to do it well - Cameroon had a hard quali, but they are with us :D

_____V_____

06-01-2010, 09:51 AM

If you ask me, I have a feeling that the team which plays the best as a team this time will take the trophy. Its a big plus that many big names of all the fancied sides are either retired or left out.

England have announced their final squad. For all the UK residents of HDC, here it is -

Goalkeepers:

Robert Green (West Ham United),
Joe Hart (Manchester City),
David James (Portsmouth).

Defenders:

Jamie Carragher (Liverpool),
Ashley Cole (Chelsea),
Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United),
Glen Johnson (Liverpool),
Ledley King (Tottenham Hotspur),
John Terry (Chelsea),
Matthew Upson (West Ham United),
Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa).

Midfielders:

Gareth Barry (Manchester City),
Michael Carrick (Manchester United),
Joe Cole (Chelsea),
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool),
Frank Lampard (Chelsea),
Aaron Lennon (Tottenham Hotspur),
James Milner (Aston Villa),
Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City).

Forwards:

Peter Crouch (Tottenham Hotspur),
Jermain Defoe (Tottenham Hotspur),
Emile Heskey (Aston Villa),
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United).

zwoti

06-01-2010, 09:51 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

oh yes, a sport where the hooker is a big hairy man :eek:

_____V_____

06-01-2010, 09:54 AM

oh yes, a sport where the hooker is a big hairy man :eek:

rofl...

ZWOTIIIIIII!!!

Angra

06-01-2010, 09:59 AM

BOOO! HISS! Football is for sissys. Rugby is a man's sport.

Shut up, boy. You're a disgrace for your country.

:D

zwoti

06-01-2010, 10:03 AM

Some of the players to watch out for -

Thierry HENRY (France) - Arguably the fastest Forward in the world for quite some time, and one of my most favorite footballers. Age is catching up with him though.

Lionel MESSI (Argentina) - In the same league as Henry. One of the most dazzling footballers you ll ever see in your life.

KAKA (Brazil) - The third name in the must-watch list.

Diego FORLAN (Uruguay)

Frank LAMPARD (England)

Miroslav KLOSE (Germany)

Arjen ROBBEN (Netherlands)

Shunsuke NAKAMURA (Japan)

Samuel ETO'O (Cameroon)

Gianluigi BUFFON (Italy)

Roque SANTA CRUZ (Paraguay)

Didier DROGBA (Ivory Coast)

Cristiano RONALDO (Portugal)

Fernando TORRES (Spain)

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.

roshiq

06-01-2010, 10:53 AM

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

Yep...Drogba is one of finest strikers I have seen in years who alone can be great threat for his opponents. I don't have any idea about the rest of squad of Ivory Coast but they need to have 2 good play maker from the mid field to support him & making some upset in the group stage.

I think C. Ronaldo is still more on his showmanship & often goes for some unnecessary tricks & turns but of course he's a gifted footballer.

Pirlo is a great play maker from Italy who shown some class football last time. Not care for their being 'old' issue, they are the defending champions...in 2006 they surprised me with their attacking attitude in the field and I can even only support them for their cool jersey. :D

TheWickerFan

06-01-2010, 11:31 AM

oh yes, a sport where the hooker is a big hairy man :eek:

Don't know what the hookers do, but I learned what the wingers do.http://wesclark.com/rrr/hopoates_finger.jpg

Zero

06-01-2010, 12:36 PM

i predict england won't even get out of their group

DP McCoy

06-01-2010, 01:16 PM

Of course England will win ...

If they can sort out the following,

#1 The back four.

Defensively England have looked vulnerable lately,Johnson,Ferdinand,Terry and Cole are quality players but have not played together enough in the run up to the World Cup,if as a unit there is any lack of cohesiveness then we will concede goals too easily.

#2 Gareth Barry's fitness.

Since becoming the first choice holding midfielder Barry has brought an assured presence to the middle of the park,not having him there would be a serious weakness.

#3 Wayne Rooney.

Getting the best out of Rooney is key.Giving him the right strike partner is crucial,I believe playing him with Defoe is not an option,Heskey works well with him but has been woefully out of form and lacking fitness.My choice would be Crouch,he holds the ball up well and will provide Rooney with plenty of knockdowns/layoffs to run onto.

#4 Penalties.

Penalties are to be avoided at all costs.

Putting loyalty to one side,Spain are the logical choice as tournament winners,they have been the outstanding side in World football for several years,they have been drawn in an easy group and are worthy favourites.

I would agree with Zwoti that Holland could go well,and for that reason I would pick Van Persie for the Golden Boot.

Serbia would be my pick of an outside team that could surprise.

Bring it on !

_____V_____

06-01-2010, 09:25 PM

History tells us that the underrated teams have had a tendency to do well in the WC.

(remember Senegal beating France?)

So watch out for teams like Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Paraguay, the Koreas, Japan, etc. who might create a flutter or two.

And I think we all agree on one common thing - Spain is THE team to watch for this WC edition.

Any predictions on the Finalists? I ll stretch my neck out and say...

Argentina vs Spain

Angra

06-01-2010, 10:01 PM

Brazil-Spain

roshiq

06-01-2010, 10:44 PM

Any predictions on the Finalists? I ll stretch my neck out and say...

Argentina vs Spain

oh..that will be a dream final for me.:)

Brazil-Spain

....the last match of Round of 16.;)

ferretchucker

06-02-2010, 01:27 AM

I see.http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/01/30/article-1132365-033EB206000005DC-816_233x220.jpg

It's not using that tactic that makes you a douchebag, it's being a bit more discreet than Vinnie was :D I mean, when I used to play Rugby our coach always told us that once you've taken someone to the ground, if the Ref is on the left of you, giving them a quick punch in the side on the right. Dirty tactics make a game, it's when you're obvious about it that you're a douchebag.

But don't you DARE bring up Bloodgate!

TheWickerFan

06-02-2010, 02:12 AM

It's not using that tactic that makes you a douchebag, it's being a bit more discreet than Vinnie was :D I mean, when I used to play Rugby our coach always told us that once you've taken someone to the ground, if the Ref is on the left of you, giving them a quick punch in the side on the right. Dirty tactics make a game, it's when you're obvious about it that you're a douchebag.

But don't you DARE bring up Bloodgate!

Okay.http://wesclark.com/rrr/hopoates_finger.jpg

hellfire1

06-02-2010, 05:53 PM

You left out the 2 biggest candidates for the Golden Boot award (Most goals)

Wayne Rooney (England)
David Villa (Spain)

Spain is gonna win the World Cup and Argentina is gonna flop once again.

Agreed about Spain.

Oh and Thierry Henry sucks something awful, lazy bastard.

Angra

06-02-2010, 08:46 PM

Oh and Thierry Henry sucks something awful, lazy bastard.

Hey hey. Dude's just old.

_____V_____

06-02-2010, 10:29 PM

Oh and Thierry Henry sucks something awful, lazy bastard.

Hey hey. Dude's just old.

He may be lazy and old, but he is still very much a threat. ;)

But frankly speaking, I don't expect France to do very well in this WC. Maybe Semi-Finals at best, but that's about it.

roshiq

06-02-2010, 11:46 PM

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/2489/predictiongroupstage1.jpg

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/5650/predictiongroupstage2.jpg

If the first round results turns up like this then just see what may happen...

roshiq

06-02-2010, 11:49 PM

Just followed the schedule...

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/1525/predictionro16a.jpg

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/2753/predictionroundof16b.jpg

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/6650/predictionqsfinals.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/4209/predictionfinal.jpg

Angra

06-02-2010, 11:57 PM

Angra

06-02-2010, 11:58 PM

roshiq

06-03-2010, 12:03 AM

Whatever happened to group E? They all die?

Opss!:o

Netherlands & Cameroon qualified for the 2nd round respectively as Group Champion & Runner Up.

Angra

06-03-2010, 12:08 AM

Opss!:o

Netherlands & Cameroon qualified for the 2nd round respectively as Group Champion & Runner Up.

No Denmark, eh?

RACIST!!!! :mad:

And i think you're gonna be wrong about Serbia. I predict they at least end up second in their group.

_____V_____

06-03-2010, 12:37 AM

Nice predictions, Rosh. Let's see if the actual matches stay faithful to these scorelines.

I have a feeling that more than one QF, possibly even a SF, will be decided by a penalty shootout.

roshiq

06-03-2010, 01:07 AM

This prediction is based on the fact that IF BRAZIL & ARGENTINA wins all the matches and I wanted to see then when this 2 giants have the chance to play against each other. Surprisingly I have found that it'll be the FINAL! Although actually I have a 'big' doubt that but it'll be more than a dream final for me if it comes true.:)

Btw, how's the WC mania going on over your places? Here Dhaka is now looks like a joint 'state' of Brazil & Argentina. At the top of almost every building it's like a competition between the fans of this 2 team to have the flags and showing their true support & confidence to win the cup. This is nothing new...FIFA WC have always been a very favorite tournament for the people of all ages here.

Angra

06-03-2010, 02:46 AM

DP McCoy

06-03-2010, 01:29 PM

My group predictions ...

Group A

South Africa
Mexico
Uruguay
France

Winners - France.Runners up - South Africa

Group B

Argentina
Nigeria
Korea Republic (aka South Korea)
Greece

Winners - Argentina.Runners up - Nigeria

Group C

England
USA
Algeria
Slovenia

Winners - England.Runners up - Slovenia

Group D

Germany
Australia
Serbia
Ghana

Winners - Serbia.Runners up - Germany

Group E

Netherlands
Denmark
Japan
Cameroon

Winners - Netherlands.Runners up - Denmark

Group F

Italy
Paraguay
New Zealand
Slovakia

Winners - Italy.Runners up - Paraguay

Group G

Brazil
Korea DPR (aka North Korea)
Ivory Coast
Portugal

Winners - Brazil.Runners up - Portugal

Group H

Spain
Switzerland
Honduras
Chile

Winners - Spain.Runners up - Honduras

I foresee...

R16 England 2 v 1 Germany
QF France 0 v 2 England
SF England 1 v 0 Brazil
Final England 2 v 2 Spain (England win 4 - 2 AET)

That is all.

Angra

06-03-2010, 01:55 PM

Group A
1.France
2.Uruguay

Group B
1.Argentina
2.Nigeria

Group C
1.England
2.Algeria

Group D
1.Germany
2.Serbia

Group E
1.Netherlands
2.Denmark

Group F
1.Italy
2.Paraguay

Group G
1.Brazil
2.Ivory Coast

Group H
1.Spain
2.Chile

_____V_____

06-03-2010, 09:48 PM

Here are mine...

Group A

1 - France
2 - South Africa

Group B

1 - Argentina
2 - Nigeria

Group C

1 - England
2 - Slovenia

Group D

1 - Germany
2 - Australia

Group E

1 - Netherlands
2 - Denmark

Group F

1 - Italy
2 - Paraguay

Group G

1 - Brazil
2 - Portugal

Group H

1 - Spain
2 - Chile

DP McCoy

06-04-2010, 10:07 AM

News ...

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_6191130,00.html

There's always something isn't there?

And ...

http://www.skysports.com/football/world-cup-2010/story/0,27032,12098_6191099,00.html

_____V_____

06-04-2010, 10:21 AM

There goes England's backup. They stand considerably weakened in the ranks behind.

And this is a really big blow for Ivory Coast. Tough going now that Drogba's out.

roshiq

06-05-2010, 12:11 AM

Saw the other night friendly match between Italy(1)-Mexico(2) and France(0)-China(1).

May be the big teams don't give their total effort in friendly matches like this just before the big tournament but overall France & Italy both were utterly disappointing.:mad:

Sad to hear that about Drogba.

TheWickerFan

06-05-2010, 05:21 AM

The vuvuzela. I think I'll have to watch this World Cup with the sound down.http://viviennemackie.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/vuvuzela2.jpg

_____V_____

06-05-2010, 07:07 PM

More injury news -

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/05/football-world-cup-2010-match-report-injured-robben-misses-dutch-flight-awaits-scan.htm

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/05/football-world-cup-2010-italys-pirlo-set-to-miss-opener.htm

And a bit of surprising news for the old work horse -

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/05/football-world-cup-2010-match-report-france-set-to-start-without-henry-and-no-guarantees.htm

They say he's past his prime, but is he, really? France's hopes have dimmed considerably now.

Bastet

06-05-2010, 09:17 PM

Bastet

06-05-2010, 09:22 PM

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.

No, No, No! Lampard has better legs (and a nicer ass) then Shrek :p

_____V_____

06-07-2010, 05:21 AM

I have edited the original image of the WC schedule out from the following post and prepared an extensive chart - which would be easy to help keep a tag on the scores, plus regular updating will make it easy to follow for all of you.

Here it is, ladies and gents. Your very own HDC Football WC 2010 Planner.

I suggest bookmarking this post -

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?p=862692&posted=1#post862692

Will be updating it throughout the WC. If I am not online for any reason, I ll like to request Zwoti to keep it updated as much as he can.

Thanks in advance, Z.

_____V_____

06-07-2010, 05:47 AM

Drogba returns -

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/07/football-world-cup-2010-match-report-drogba-to-rejoin-ivory-coast-squad.htm

Here's to hoping he makes it into the final squad for the opener against Portugal.

Also, the Dutch are keeping Robben in the squad despite his hamstring injury -

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/07/football-world-cup-2010-injured-robben-to-remain-in-dutch-squad.htm

And, no prizes for guessing who everyone is betting on to lift this WC -

http://sports.rediff.com/report/2010/jun/07/football-world-cup-2010-match-report-economists-back-spain-to-lift-wc-after-stats-and-calculations.htm

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 04:56 AM

ARE...

YOU...

READY?!

Yes folks, today is WC KICKOFF DAY!!!

The first match will tee off in just over an hour from now. The hosts will be taking on one of the most bouyed and attacking sides of the tournament.

Who are we betting on? The emotional support is with the hosts, but the realists are counting on the Latin Americans to pull off an emphatic win.

So, wherever you are, grab some beers and chips and jump into the couch in front of your TVs, and tune in to ESPN (or whichever local channel in your area is streaming the WC Live!).

It will be - SOUTH AFRICA versus MEXICO!

Catch you all during the match!

Angra

06-11-2010, 05:48 AM

South Africa - Mexico 2-2

I'll be at work during the entire match!! YEEEEEH HAAAAAAAAW!!!!

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 07:07 AM

First half is over. Scoreline reads 0-0 so far.

Mexico were clearly the better team, although South Africa were slightly impressive in the last 15 mins of the first half. There were plenty of chances missed, the scoreline could easily have read 1-1 or 2-2. South Africa looks very patchy, and their defenses look mediocre. Mexico are playing their special brand of attacking football.

Mexico should fancy their chances a lot more than South Africa, now that the 2nd half starts in a minute.

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 07:20 AM

WHAT A FANTASTIC GOAL BY TSHABALALA in the 55th minute!! :D

First goal of the WC, and what a shot!

South Africa are up 1-0!!

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 07:42 AM

MEXICO get the EQUALISER!!

South Africa's defenses were in shambles. Marquez shot the fantastic pass coolly behind the goalkeeper into the goal!

1-1 NOW! 10 MINS REMAIN!

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 08:00 AM

FINAL SCORE -

SOUTH AFRICA - 1
(Tshabalala 55')

MEXICO - 1
(Marquez 79')

South Africa came PERILOUSLY close to making it 2-1 though, if only the close shot at goal in the 89th minute didn't hit the side post!

But that's how it ended. It was a more rivetting second half than the first. South Africa started strongly and dominated the first 25-odd minutes, but then Mexico came back with a number of attempts at goal, till the 79th minute when they equalised. The last 10 minutes was supercharged, and like I said the 89th minute effort could have made it 2-1, if the post didn't intervene.

A great game to tee off the WC. Up next, THE mouthwatering prospect of this group - FRANCE versus URUGUAY. That starts in 2 and half hours.

Angra

06-11-2010, 08:13 AM

My predictions were half right then.

I think i deserve a prize for that..

Uruguay - France 1-3

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 08:38 AM

Angra

06-11-2010, 09:13 AM

For your half-right prediction, you win a free coffee date with ZWOTI!! :D

I think Uruguay will run France pretty close though. Should be a cracker of a match either way.

There is some controversy over Henry playing, from what I heard. Half the team wants him in, half doesn't. (dunno who the coach is siding with) Think Gallas is the instigator and wants Govou in place of Henry.

Let's hope they sort out their differences.

Sure, there is a chance France can hit an all time low in this world cup. At least in 2002 they liked each other, when they got kicked out in the group stage.

But if the morale is there tonight I don't believe Uruguay to stand much of a chance.

We'll see. The french haven't been impressive for quite some time now..

Angra

06-11-2010, 09:17 AM

Sure, there is a chance France can hit an all time low in this world cup. At least in 2002 they liked each other, when they got kicked out in the group stage.

But if the morale is there tonight I don't believe Uruguay to stand much of a chance.

We'll see. The french haven't been impressive for quite some time now..

That being said, Uruguays away-games statistic really stinks.

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 09:20 AM

Yep. They have been far from impressive for the past year or so. The aging team isn't helping much.

The problem with Uruguay is, they are super-charged when playing in front of their home crowd. (or even in their continent) Their records in Europe, specially in away matches, has been really bad.

Should be a keen tussle either way. Think France will be looking to sort some issues quickly or it will be a short WC for them.

Angra

06-11-2010, 09:38 AM

Think France will be looking to sort some issues quickly or it will be a short WC for them.

That would be swell. :D

zwoti

06-11-2010, 10:09 AM

FINAL SCORE -

South Africa [1] - Mexico [1]
(Tshabalala 55') (Marquez 79')

South Africa came PERILOUSLY close to making it 2-1 though, if only the close shot at goal in the 89th minute didn't hit the side post!

But that's how it ended. It was a more rivetting second half than the first. South Africa started strongly and dominated the first 25-odd minutes, but then Mexico came back with a number of attempts at goal, till the 79th minute when they equalised. The last 10 minutes was supercharged, and like I said the 89th minute effort could have made it 2-1, if the post didn't intervene.

A great game to tee off the WC. Up next, THE mouthwatering prospect of this group - FRANCE versus URUGUAY. That starts in 2 and half hours.

well i had predicted 2-1 to mexico

Angra

06-11-2010, 11:09 AM

None of those two teams will win the World Cup..

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 11:21 AM

Half-time for the France-Uruguay match. Score is 0-0.

Well, the French were pretty impressive for the first 25-odd minutes or so, but then Uruguay's defenses held on.

France could easily have gone 1-0 up in the 6th minute itself, when Ribery sent in a fantastic pass to Govou in front of the Uruguayan goal, but Govou missed it and messed up the chance.

Diego Forlan had a real clean shot at goal during the 17th minute, but only managed to find the goalkeeper.

Ribery kept attacking, as did Anelka. But both didn't get a lot of support from the rest. Govou particularly looks very mediocre.

Henry started the match on the bench, and IMO is sorely missed at the front. Hopefully they will send him in the second half.

Let's see what happens...

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 12:11 PM

And the FIRST RED CARD of WC 2010!

Lodeiro of Uruguay who came in as a rep was booked twice, and two Yellows make a red. He's out.

The second booking was for an unfair tackle on Sagna, a French midfielder I am impressed with the more I see him.

Seven mins remain...still 0 - 0.

zwoti

06-11-2010, 12:23 PM

well the french look bloody awful.

Angra

06-11-2010, 12:23 PM

Yaaaaaaawn!!

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 12:26 PM

FINAL SCORE -

URUGUAY - 0

FRANCE - 0

Things were pretty much even till 25 minutes into the second half. Henry came in as replacement in place of Anelka (which was surprising), and almost as if in reply Diego Forlan suddenly found himself in front of the French goal with the ball in front. Would you believe it, he hit it wide from maybe 10 paces from the goal!

There were plenty of shots on goal and off it, but none in. The French dominated the last 18 minutes after Forlan's effort above, but even a free kick from in front of the box during the final minutes of extra time didn't materialise. France kept promising a lot, but delivered none. I d say their efforts in the front leave a LOT to be desired.

Although it makes you think what would have happened if the French had picked up a penalty kick for an involuntary handball by one of the Uruguayan defenders during those final moments...

And even after being reduced to 10 men, Uruguay held on till the end to hold France. Pretty commendable effort.

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 12:30 PM

The matches for tomorrow -

SOUTH KOREA take on GREECE,

ARGENTINA take on NIGERIA,

and

ENGLAND take on the USA.

Its 2 AM here. Off to bed. Night, folks.

FreddyMyers

06-11-2010, 12:51 PM

USA!!! USA!!!
Cant wait for tommorrow, even took off of work on a Saturday just to sit at the same bar i work at.
As for Group A, Mexico should have won 3-2 if they could just get the ball to the back of the net. S. Africa seemed really tight in the first half but still should have scored at least 2 goals.
I would call that a win for Uruguay considering France has some great offence. Seemed like they frustrated France on the defensive side the entire game but just couldn't produce any offence.

hellfire1

06-11-2010, 02:38 PM

_____V_____

06-11-2010, 09:25 PM

Well, Group A now stands wide open.

Both Mexico and South Africa should fancy their chances against France now, because they looked totally lacklustre in their opener against Uruguay.

None of the players left an impact on the game. Anelka was dubious, Ribery looked promising for the first quarter but then fizzled out, Govou was a big disappointment, Gallas was non-existent, and Henry looked out of sorts (possibly maybe because he didn't make the starting 11). The only two players who maybe gave it their best were Sagna and Gourcuff, who kept the Uruguayan goalie interested by 3-4 long rangers flying towards his goal.

Uruguay themselves were at sea. Forlan had at least two opportunities to make it 2-0 for them, but missed out. Their defenses need to tighten up considerably and more than once they left the goalkeeper stranded. The last 10 minutes of playing with 10 men and holding France back was slightly commendable, although it must be said that, with all due respect to Uruguay's defence, France lost on a great chance.

If this is how France plans to play the WC, I don't expect them to get past the Group stages. Even if they make it into the Round of 16 somehow, a QF berth will come as a surprise.

And boy, are the vuvuzelas loud or what!

roshiq

06-11-2010, 10:44 PM

I think both France & Italy will be a big tel down this time.

Anyway, at the moment I'm pretty excited about the upcoming match against ARGENTINA-NIGERIA! I'll try to leave early from the office but most probably will miss the 1st match of today...S.KOREA-GREECE...hoping a win for Korea.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 03:11 AM

Rise and shine, people.

Day 2 of the WC, and the first match coming up is GREECE taking on SOUTH KOREA.

Greece has had a history in the WC. Unfortunately they haven't done awesomely well in any of the previous editions. Don't think they will pose much of a threat in this one, either.

South Korea is a side with potential. Park Joo Yung is an experienced campaigner and is very fast up front. He will need plenty of support from the others to take them through.

My prediction - 2 - 1 to South Korea. (only because I want to see some goals and keen tussles, not dreary draws like last night's match)

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 03:37 AM

And its 1 - 0 to south korea in the 7th min!!

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 04:23 AM

Half time score reads 1 - 0 to South Korea.

My prediction of the scoreline could have been a reality in the first half itself! Greece had a fantastic chance of going 1 - 0 up in the 3rd minute itself when Karagounis sent in a superb ball from the corner, and the player inside had a clear shot at goal inches from the front, but shot it over.

Then came the superb goal from Lee Jung Soo in the 7th minute. A very clear shot from the corner saw him placed at the correct place at the correct time and he calmly placed it by the side of the Greek goalkeeper into the net.

It was South Korea's fastest goal in the WC.

And in the 27th minute, Chu Young broke through the right side of the field in an awesome run. The pass was executed flawlessly to him and he had nobody in front to stop him except the goalkeeper and 1 defender. He took the shot from very close to the goal, and if the goalkeeper's leg hadn't touched the ball and lobbed it safely over the goalbars into the backside of the net, South Korea would have been 2-0.

It's been all Korea so far. Greece look a panicky, broken lot. Constant arguments between themselves aren't helping much either. There was some shirt pulling and heated words between the Greek goalkeeper and one of his defenders, which doesn't say much about the team spirit of Greece.

Let's see what the second half is like...I am betting South Korea to finish this on a canter - at least 2-0 or even 3-0.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 04:39 AM

2 - 0 to South Korea in the 52nd minute! :D

Park Ji Sung decided to join the party!!

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 05:23 AM

FINAL SCORE -

GREECE - 0

SOUTH KOREA - 2
(Jung Soo 7')
(Ji Sung 52')

Well, Greece would be everybody's favorite whipping boy in Group B. Nothing home to write about them, except a string of missed opportunities in the final 20-odd minutes.

South Korea's defenses look a little suspect, but the way they keep building their attacks with patience and timing is very impressive. Watch out people, their matches against Nigeria and Argentina should be real crackers, if they aren't overawed by their opponents in the next two matches.

They are the first team to win a match in WC 2010. Congrats to the Asians!

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 05:29 AM

And the firecracker of the day comes up shortly in 30 minutes time...

It will be ARGENTINA taking on NIGERIA!

Hope you are all home to watch it.

zwoti

06-12-2010, 05:29 AM

i did pick korea to finish 2nd in the group, so far so good

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 05:32 AM

i did pick korea to finish 2nd in the group, so far so good

Nigeria should win their match against Greece, which is their next match after tonight.

So it will end up as Nigeria vs South Korea for the 2nd spot on June 22nd. And that will be a real mouthwatering treat!

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 06:07 AM

OH YES 1 - 0 TO ARGENTINA IN THE 7TH MINUTE!!!

Swear I keep getting goose pimples everytime Messi touches the ball. :o

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 06:49 AM

Halftime score -

ARGENTINA - 1
(Heinze 7')

NIGERIA - 0

The score doesn't show how lively the first half was. Full marks to the Nigerian goalkeeper for keeping 3 thundering shots of Messi out. Argentina were like a battering ram, relentless in their attacks. Nigeria have been dominated so far.

The second half should be as speedy as the first.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 07:57 AM

FINAL SCORE -

ARGENTINA - 1
(Heinze 6')

NIGERIA - 0

A tale of two halves, really. Argentina didn't look nearly as menacing as they did in the first half. Messi kept pounding at the Nigerian goal and was denied again and again (really, hats off to the Nigerian goalkeeper for keeping those 7-8 shots out!).

But the second half clearly belonged to the Nigerians. Some of the crosses sent in front of the goal came periliously close to scoring the equaliser, but they missed the final finishing move. Nigeria must be ruing all the chances they missed.

Still, if you are an Argentina fan, you shouldn't be so confident about your team's progress. There is the spark there, but the team lacks a bit of cohesion and some solidity in the defenses. Veron was totally out of sorts in the second half, plenty of crosses and passes from him going embarrassingly away straight into the Nigerian player's feet.

Argentina have won, but they need to improve a lot if they want to progress further. Nigeria can keep their heads high for their nice show in this match, and think about winning their other two coming up.

roshiq

06-12-2010, 08:29 AM

Yep...you're right. A pretty disappointed showcase of Argentine football. Let's hope that Messi & Co. will find the net next time.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 10:24 AM

ENGLAND versus USA starts in about 7 minutes. Any predictions, guys?

I say 2-0 to England. (waiting for the flaming from the HDC Americans now) :D

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 10:36 AM

ENGLAND ARE IN THE LEAD BABY!!!

1 - 0 in the 4th minute, courtesy STEVEN GERRARD!

Angra

06-12-2010, 11:04 AM

England is playing very well. The best team of the World Cup so far.

Gerrard is everywhere.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 11:12 AM

Want to believe this?! But believe it!!!

USA EQUALISE IN THE 40TH MINUTE!!!

It's 1 - 1!

Dempsey's shot was collected very poorly by Green and it rolled into the goal!!

ChronoGrl

06-12-2010, 11:12 AM

This is the whole schedule of FIFA World Cup 2010 - (I will be updating this post regularly throughout the WC)

Group A

01 : [11/06] Mexico [1] - South Africa [1]
02 : [11/06] France [0] - Uruguay [0]
17 : [16/06] Uruguay - South Africa
18 : [17/06] France - Mexico
33 : [22/06] Mexico - Uruguay
34 : [22/06] France - South Africa

Group B

03 : [12/06] Nigeria [0] - Argentina [1]
04 : [12/06] Greece [0] - South Korea [2]
19 : [17/06] Greece - Nigeria
20 : [17/06] Argentina - South Korea
35 : [22/06] Nigeria - South Korea
36 : [22/06] Greece - Argentina

Group C

05 : [12/06] USA - England
06 : [13/06] Algeria - Slovenia
22 : [18/06] USA - Slovenia
23 : [18/06] England - Algeria
37 : [23/06] England - Slovenia
38 : [23/06] USA - Algeria

Group D

07 : [13/06] Germany - Australia
08 : [13/06] Ghana - Serbia
21 : [18/06] Serbia - Germany
24 : [19/06] Ghana - Australia
39 : [23/06] Ghana - Germany
40 : [23/06] Serbia - Australia

Group E

09 : [14/06] Denmark - Netherlands
10 : [14/06] Japan - Cameroon
25 : [19/06] Japan - Netherlands
26 : [19/06] Denmark - Cameroon
43 : [24/06] Japan - Denmark
44 : [24/06] Cameroon - Netherlands

Group F

11 : [14/06] Italy - Paraguay
12 : [15/06] Slovakia - New Zealand
27 : [20/06] Slovakia - Paraguay
28 : [20/06] Italy - New Zealand
41 : [24/06] Italy - Slovakia
42 : [24/06] Paraguay - New Zealand

Group G

13 : [15/06] Portugal - Ivory Coast
14 : [15/06] Brazil - North Korea
29 : [20/06] Brazil - Ivory Coast
30 : [21/06] Portugal - North Korea
45 : [25/06] Brazil - Portugal
46 : [25/06] Ivory Coast - North Korea

Group H

15 : [16/06] Chile - Honduras
16 : [16/06] Spain - Switzerland
31 : [21/06] Chile - Switzerland
32 : [21/06] Spain - Honduras
47 : [25/06] Spain - Chile
48 : [25/06] Honduras - Switzerland

Round Of 16

49: [26/06] A1 - B2
50: [26/06] C1 - D2
51: [27/06] D1 - C2
52: [27/06] B1 - A2
53: [28/06] E1 - F2
54: [28/06] G1 - H2
55: [29/06] F1 - E2
56: [29/06] H1 - G2

Quarter - Finals

57: [02/07] Winner #53 - Winner #54
58: [02/07] Winner #49 - Winner #50
59: [03/07] Winner #51 - Winner #52
60: [03/07] Winner #55 - Winner #56

Semi - Finals

61: [06/07] Winner #57 - Winner #58
62: [07/07] Winner #59 - Winner #60

Third Place Playoff

63: [10/07] Loser #61 - Loser #62

THE FINAL

64: [11/07] Winner #61 - Winner #62

You can also visit the official page, and click on the small clock icon on the top to see your local times - http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/index.html

I would like to comment on how much of a retarded American I am - It took me like 5 MINUTES to figure out when those games are actually scheduled (damn yanks writing out their dates month/day/year)... :o

Anyway - I wish that Americans were better at soccer.

Angra

06-12-2010, 11:18 AM

Blahblahblahblahblahblahblahblah...etc.

That's some fucked up nipples you've got there, Chrono.

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 11:23 AM

Who wouldda thunk?!

Halftime score -

ENGLAND - 1
(Gerrard 4')

USA - 1
(Dempsey 40')

England were very impressive right from the start. Repeated run-ins by Rooney and Heskey kept the pressure on the USA's defenses and they conceded the goal very early. Brilliant touch by Heskey found Gerrard at the exact spot from where he had the US goalie totally wrongfooted. 1-0, England.

But then came their lucky break. It was a fairly inocuous attempt at goal by Dempsey which looked to be heading straight into Green's hands for an easy collection, but would you believe it...the ball seemed to have a mind of it's own as it swerved slightly out of Green's grasp and as if in slow motion, rolled slowly into the England goal with a diving Green trying desperately to keep it out!

Weird, exasperating and slightly embarrassing moment for Green. Joy for the USA!

Let's see what the 2nd half unfolds...

roshiq

06-12-2010, 11:35 AM

The first funniest goal of WC'2010!:D Hoping to see more in coming matches from any European team.

ferretchucker

06-12-2010, 12:03 PM

Okay...just flicked it on to check (not a footie fan). How the FUCK has it got to the 74th minute without us dominating you yanks?! I thought you were meant to be terrible!

ChronoGrl

06-12-2010, 12:06 PM

That's some fucked up nipples you've got there, Chrono.

They squirt poison - I'd watch it if I were you...

_____V_____

06-12-2010, 12:28 PM

FINAL SCORE -

ENGLAND - 1
(Gerrard 4')

USA - 1
(Dempsey 40')

What a wonderful entertaining game! This is how all WC matches should be played.

The second half was one of the most keenly contested halves you ll ever get to see. It was really heartening to see the USA team match England pretty much shot for shot, effort for effort. More than 30 shots were attempted at goal (2 of which materialised), and both goalkeepers were kept very busy till the very end. It was fast, it was challenging and it was really competitive. I was really impressed by the USA defender (the bearded fellow...I forgot his name) who had Rooney covered all through the match.

Plenty of chances for both sides. None really mattered in the end. You can imagine all sorts of scorelines for such matches, and this is a perfect example of even a drawn match providing so much fantastic entertainment.

The best match of the WC so far.

Escape and joy for USA. Smirks and shake of heads for England. They need to pull up their socks for the next game. USA can only improve from here on.

Time for bed now. Night, folks.

Angra

06-12-2010, 12:35 PM

They squirt poison - I'd watch it if I were you...

That's quite some weird squirting.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 03:30 AM

Good morning, good afternoon and good evening, wherever you are and are reading this post.

Today is a slightly indifferent day in the WC -

ALGERIA takes on SLOVENIA in a minute. Battle of the minnows.

Then we have GHANA taking on SERBIA. Another minnows battle.

And the big one for tonight, GERMANY versus AUSTRALIA. That should be a humdinger.

For this one, I predict 2-1 to Slovenia. Catch you all with an update after the first half is over.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 04:20 AM

Halftime score -

ALGERIA - 0

SLOVENIA - 0

The goalkeepers of both teams pulled off some good saves but overall it was a dull first half.

Like Angra would say - "Yawnnnn!" or "Boring!".

Maybe I was a bit over-ambitious with my scoreline prediction. 1 - 0 won't be a bad result for this one, either way.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 05:30 AM

FINAL SCORE -

ALGERIA - 0

SLOVENIA - 1
(Koren 79')

Well the second half provided a bit more entertainment than the first, if you can call that. Algeria were down to 10 men in the 73rd minute when one of their substitutes, Ghezzal, picked up two yellow cards - the second one for a glaring handball - which adds to the red card.

That might have spurred the Slovenians on. Koren, the captain, sent in a very inocuous looking shot straight at the Algerian goal and the goalkeeper totally lost it. Maybe another goalie would have easily collected it, or maybe it was due to the controversial "perfectly round" Jabulani ball for this WC, but he was left with empty hands while the ball swung slightly away from him into the far corner of the goal. Great moment for the Slovenians, embarrassing for Algeria.

And that's how the scoreline stayed till the end. History was made as Slovenia registered their first ever win in the WC Finals.

Coming up in 30 minutes - SERBIA versus GHANA.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 07:55 AM

FINAL SCORE -

GHANA - 1
(Asamoah 85')

SERBIA - 0

It was basically a dull game till the 85th minute when a wrong handling inside the Serbian box resulted in a Penalty Shot for the Ghana team. Asamoah Gyan didn't miss from the spot.

Nothing else to report from the second half, except a Red card for a Serbian player by way of two Yellow cards. Ghana win the match.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 10:39 AM

And Germany are ahead 1 - 0 in the 8th minute itself!!

All hail Podolski!

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 10:58 AM

Germany are now 2 - 0 up in the first 27 minutes!!!

Miroslav Klose!!! :D

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 11:29 AM

Halftime score -

GERMANY - 2
(Podolski 8')
(Klose 27')

AUSTRALIA - 0

Admit it, Germany are looking in fantastic form all through these 45 minutes. They are the team to beat in this WC. Watch out, other teams!

Australia must be really ruing their great chance at going 1 - 0 up during the first few mins when they missed a really easy shot at goal. Garcia got a great rebound from the German goalie through Cahill's shot but his shot was blocked by the goalie again.

Then came Podolski's shot straight into the Aussie goalie, who got a hand to it but the power behind the kick took the ball straight in!

The half belonged to Germany. They were ruthless and relentless. Klose came close to scoring at least 3 more goals but was denied once (fantastically!) by the defender when the goalkeeper was well and truly beaten, and once when he hit straight at the Aussie goalie from a very close range. The third time was when he failed to connect to a superb pass from the bottom corner straight in front of the Aussie goal.

Klose looks to have shed behind all his bad form of late and is looking superb and dangerous.

Also, Ozil had a tremendous run towards the Australian goal and had no defenders in sight, and even beat the goalie! But in doing that he mistimed the ball and it rolled out of play before he could reach it, to his intense frustration.

The Aussies were guilty of missing some chances too. A great, highly-charged and volatile 45 minutes has ended. Another 45 mouthwatering minutes remain.

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 11:55 AM

Its 3 - 0, Germany, people!!!

Muller time!!! :D

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 11:57 AM

4 - 0, Germany is on the rampage!!!

Cacau scores within 2 mins of coming in as Substitute for Klose!!

roshiq

06-13-2010, 12:28 PM

Euro giants like Germany, England & Netherlands has always been playing a great role to keep the momentum in almost every tournament of WC. They always starts quite promisingly but can't run all the way. Although Germans have a good record of winning 3 times but that's all for them should always be in the history of football. The way they won last time in 90 at Italy they have fallen under a great curse for sure by then. At least I want to believe it. From then I just don't like to see the German team at winning side in the field.

Hoping for a Germany-England match in 2nd round.:D

_____V_____

06-13-2010, 12:29 PM

FINAL SCORE -

GERMANY - 4
(Podolski 8')
(Klose 26')
(Muller 68')
(Cacau 70')

AUSTRALIA - 0

The second half totally belonged to Germany.

The bit of huge controversial news for the Aussie fans came in the 56th min when Tim Cahill was given a STRAIGHT RED CARD and sent off for an unfair tackle on Schweinsteiger.

Then came the goals, almost immediately after each other. First, the very impressive 20 year old Muller of Bayern Munich turned stupendously around and drove a right footer straight past the Aussie goalie. Whilst Germany celebrated their 3rd goal, Miroslav Klose was being substituted by Cacau. As if in extended celebration, Ozil sent in a near perfect pass to the new substitute who made no mistake in driving the ball in, compounding the Aussies' misery to no bounds.

It was all over for Australia, bar the shouting from here.

All of the German players look in fantastic form. The only one in doubt was Klose but he proved more than his worth and looked extremely fit and raring to go. He now has 11 goals in WC so far, 4 away from the top scorer Ronaldo.

Cahill's Red Card means he will be sitting out the next match for Australia. A huge blow to their team, considering the value Cahill brings to the Aussies.

Germany look fabulous. A well-knit, well-groomed and well-oiled unit and fully functional, they are ready to take on the world. Most of their players are new, but the coach has done a wonderful job with all of them in building their team.

If you were disappointed by France, Argentina and England, be no more. Germany will be the team to back from now on. That is, if they keep this run of their fantastic opener of this WC.

Angra

06-13-2010, 12:59 PM

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 04:37 AM

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 05:21 AM

FINAL SCORE -

DENMARK - 0

NETHERLANDS - 2
(Poulsen 46' *OG*)
(Kuyt 85')

Angra

06-14-2010, 08:01 AM

Was late returning from office today. Its 6 06 PM here right now and the first 50 minutes of the Netherlands - Denmark match has gone by.

The scoreline reads 1 - 0 to the Netherlands so far. And believe it or not, it was an OWN GOAL by Poulsen of Denmark in the 46th minute!!

Angra must be pulling his hair out in intense frustration right now.

If I had any hair to spare I would.

Not so much because of the defeat (which was well deserved), but much more because of the boring defensive way Denmark is playing, and I don't see which danish player that should be able to score a single goal in this tournament... GRRRRAAAAAAARG!!!!

FIRE THEM, FIRE THEM ALL!!!! :mad:

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 08:33 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #10 (GROUP E) -

JAPAN - 1
(Honda 39')

CAMEROON - 0

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 11:09 AM

WHAT A SURPRISE!!

PARAGUAY are AHEAD 1 - 0 over ITALY!!

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 11:20 AM

Did you expect this?? :D

Halftime score -

ITALY - 0

PARAGUAY - 1
(Alcaraz 39')

Paraguay look very impressive and have matched Italy all through the first half. Their defenses look solid and when the time came, Alcaraz's fine header in the 39th min blasted the ball past a surprised Buffon who could only watch in despair.

The 2006 WC Champions trail in their very first 2010 match. Good luck to them in the 2nd half!

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 11:51 AM

Italy EQUALISE through De Rossi 1 - 1 in the 63rd minute!!

_____V_____

06-14-2010, 12:25 PM

FINAL SCORE - Match #11 (GROUP F) -

ITALY - 1
(De Rossi 63')

PARAGUAY - 1
(Alcaraz 39')

And so the Italian diesel engine starts its revving in yet another WC. The reason I said diesel engine is because they are notorious for being slow starters in most of the WC Finals they have been in. The 4 time champions looked rusty but there was no stopping their attacks at the Paraguayan goal. Overall, they would be slightly disappointed with the draw.

Paraguay on the other hand would be delighted. Going into the lead and then hanging on to the draw in what would be their toughest match of the group is surely a plus for them. Despite two attacking moves by bringing in Cardozo & Santa Cruz in the final 22 minutes, they had a change of tactics in the final 5-6 mins and settled to fight out the draw.

The Azurri need to improve. The South Americans will be thrilled.

And I am off to bed.

roshiq

06-15-2010, 01:20 AM

Italy played far better than I expected...specially in the 2nd half. After watching their 'friendly' match against Mexico last week where Mexico won convincingly by 2-1, I was expecting this would be a 1-0 or 2-0 final scoreline in favor of Paraguay. I'm hoping that Azzurri will be in the 2nd round but the matter is whether they can become the Group champion or not. Cause if they advance as 2nd in Group F then we're now quite sure that they'll face Netherlands! And that will be really tough challenge for them considering their team standards at the moment.

roshiq

06-15-2010, 05:16 AM

ESPN Stats & Info: The first 19 goals of this World Cup have been scored by 19 different players, breaking the previous record of 18 (Argentina, 1978).

_____V_____

06-15-2010, 08:18 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #12 (GROUP F) -

SLOVAKIA - 1
(Vittek 50')

NEW ZEALAND - 1
(Reid 93')

_____V_____

06-15-2010, 08:19 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #13 (GROUP G) -

PORTUGAL - 0

IVORY COAST - 0

FreddyMyers

06-15-2010, 08:26 AM

Definitly surprised noone scored a goal. From what i knew they were both good stricking teams. Thought portugal would come out of that match with 3 pts

_____V_____

06-15-2010, 11:18 AM

Halftime score -

BRAZIL - 0

KOREA DPR - 0

Someone answer me this question - is this really Brazil we are watching? Looks like a club side from some forgotten South American country.

Apart from some long rangers and deft passes, Brazil are looking like a VERY pale version of the team we have come to love over the years.

Impressed with Korea so far, from the limited time they got their space in the match.

Expecting some fireworks in the second half from Brazil hopefully. Right now they are looking really, really mediocre.

_____V_____

06-15-2010, 12:21 PM

FINAL SCORE - Match #14 (GROUP G) -

BRAZIL - 2
(Maicon 55')
(Elano 72')

KOREA DPR - 1
(Ji Yun Nam 89')

Brazil - need to improve. A LOT. Fantastic first goal by Maicon from a very extreme angle.

Korea - Impressive. Should take a lot of heart from this match.

Angra

06-15-2010, 12:48 PM

So far, of all the favorites only Germany hasn't disappointed..

roshiq

06-15-2010, 12:57 PM

I think it's Dunga's strategy that's making Brazil playing this kinda 'unusual' samba football. Otherwise like always there are still many talented players in the squad. Nilmar was far more impressive than Kaka who is totally out of form at the moment. Dani Alves also need to be regular in the field from the very beginning of every match from now on.

But the main problem is IMO Brazil needed to win this match without conceding any goal. Cause as it's the Group of Death with teams like Portugal & Ivory Coast & there is a possibility that the final point table may become pretty close of between this 3 favorites. Who knows POR & IC may win against Korea DPR with clean sheet while both have a draw against Brazil?!? And that can put Brazil into real trouble, unless Brazil at least defeat one of them at any cost.

roshiq

06-15-2010, 01:11 PM

So far, of all the favorites only Germany hasn't disappointed..

But does always the most impressive team wins the cup?

I think it's better to have a moderate start in WC for the Latin American giants...Brazil & Argentina. I hope they will improve in each coming game as the tournament progress.

Angra

06-15-2010, 09:53 PM

But does always the most impressive team wins the cup?

I think it's better to have a moderate start in WC for the Latin American giants...Brazil & Argentina. I hope they will improve in each coming game as the tournament progress.

That may be, but i'm disappointed about the World Cup so far. Too much safety play and lack of creativity up front. Give me a vuvuzela so I can BUUUUUUUH!!! :mad:

_____V_____

06-16-2010, 05:23 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #15 (GROUP H) -

CHILE - 1
(Beausejour 34')

HONDURAS - 0

FreddyMyers

06-16-2010, 06:00 AM

Spain is like the Spanish league all star team. Almost half of which is from their cup winning Barcelona team. Im curious how they are gonna manage to chocke again in this WC.

_____V_____

06-16-2010, 07:53 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #16 (GROUP H) -

SPAIN - 0

SWITZERLAND - 1
(Fernandes 52')

Well, Z, Angra & Roshiq...THE team to beat in WC 2010 have choked in their very first match against a much lesser fancied opponent. 24 shots at goal, and none went in?!

Did anyone expect this scoreline? I didn't, and I am pretty much sure none of you did either.

Sorry to report, but Spain look toothless. They have to transform themselves overnight or it will be a very short WC trip for them.

The FIRST BIG SHOCK of WC 2010!!

Angra

06-16-2010, 08:47 AM

BWAAAAAAAH HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!

^^ That would've been me, if I hadn't put my money on 1-1. :(

_____V_____

06-16-2010, 12:29 PM

FINAL SCORE - Match #17 (GROUP A) -

URUGUAY - 3
(Forlan 24')
(Forlan *PK* 80')
(Pereira 95')

SOUTH AFRICA - 0

How many times have you seen a GOALKEEPER get a STRAIGHT RED CARD in your entire soccer watching life? One such moment happened in this match. The South African GK was sent off for committing a glaring foul on a Uruguayan forward, Suarez, who was looking certain to score inside the area in the 79th minute.

It was a significant match for Uruguay, considering their win. They were clearly the better team on view. Forlan especially was relentless.

As for the hosts, it looks all over bar the shouting. Until the next WC, South Africa!

roshiq

06-16-2010, 01:22 PM

FINAL SCORE - Match #16 (GROUP H) -

SPAIN - 0

SWITZERLAND - 1
(Fernandes 52')

The FIRST BIG SHOCK of WC 2010!!

Obviously it's a big & terrible shock...a slap on the regular football fans! For the last couple of WC's Spain also has a record (like Netherlands) of knocked out from the tournament though being there as one of the favorites. I still want to hope that will not repeat this time as they begin there campaign with a defeat. This can make them more serious & try really hard without expecting the goals will come eventually from a series of failed attacks. Anyway, I'm sure you all noticed that the scoreline could have been 2-0 in favor Switzerland!

I'm now bit worried about the next match between ARG & S.KOR. :confused:

Angra

06-17-2010, 01:01 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #17 (GROUP A) -

[center][b]URUGUAY - 3
(Forlan 24')
(Forlan *PK* 80')
(Pereira 95')

I had 2-0!!! *whine*

I hate this World Cup. :(

hellfire1

06-17-2010, 12:56 PM

V.....

Told ya so. ;)

Psycom5k

06-17-2010, 05:47 PM

Who cares, its just soccer. :D

scouse mac

06-18-2010, 07:43 AM

Barnstorming finish on the cards for the US, as I write they've just equalized against Slovenia with six minutes left.

Landon Donovan is the main threat so far, 2-2

hellfire1

06-18-2010, 07:58 AM

Annnd....

We were robbed.

scouse mac

06-18-2010, 07:59 AM

USA 2-2 Slovenia

Dont know why the yanks had that goal disallowed in the dying minutes, looked alright to me so they was robbed of the win imo. Still, one of the best games of the WC so far

Angra

06-18-2010, 12:33 PM

And England blew it once again..

HOLY CRAP, The US can win this group!!

Angra

06-18-2010, 12:44 PM

:D

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p17/Kasper_76/2lJE1.gif

Fabio....

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p17/Kasper_76/FabioCapello1.jpg

:D

scouse mac

06-18-2010, 01:16 PM

That was bloody awful.

The way they are playing, England don't deserve to qualify for the knockouts. Slovenia probably fancy their chances against us.

Bastet

06-18-2010, 09:23 PM

That was bloody awful.

The way they are playing, England don't deserve to qualify for the knockouts. Slovenia probably fancy their chances against us.
I agree, the first 30 minutes we didn't even look awake. Didn't deserve even a draw. We have far more pressure now than we did at the start of the tournoment.
On a lighter side- I love the USA kit and think they have a fantastic Goalie (guess which club I support)
:rolleyes:

roshiq

06-19-2010, 02:01 AM

Team USA should file an official complain against that referee for disallowing their 3rd goal without any reason. Also the red card against German striker Klose was too harsh I think. I'm just wondering how Maradona would react if Argentina faced this sorta treatment in the field. The great thing is Messi is on fantastic form but Argentina need to be more careful about their defense.

Anyway, it's getting pretty interesting to see how well the 'overrated' big teams of Europe are doing in the 2nd game of 1st round;). But I still hope that England & Germany will do better in their 3rd group match and eventually advance into the 2nd round.

scouse mac

06-19-2010, 08:57 AM

I agree, the first 30 minutes we didn't even look awake. Didn't deserve even a draw. We have far more pressure now than we did at the start of the tournoment.
On a lighter side- I love the USA kit and think they have a fantastic Goalie (guess which club I support)
:rolleyes:

They letting Blue-noses in here these days?

;)

_____V_____

06-19-2010, 10:40 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #18 (GROUP A) -

FRANCE - 0

MEXICO - 2
(Hernandez 64')
(Blanco *PK* 79')

FINAL SCORE - Match #19 (GROUP B) -

GREECE - 2
(Salpingidis 44')
(Torosidis 71')

NIGERIA - 1
(Uche 16')

FINAL SCORE - Match #20 (GROUP B) -

ARGENTINA - 4
(Park Chu Young *OG* 16')
(Higuain 33', 76', 80')

SOUTH KOREA - 1
(Lee Chung Yong 45'+1')

FINAL SCORE - Match #21 (GROUP D) -

GERMANY - 0

SERBIA - 1
(Jovanovic 38')

FINAL SCORE - Match #22 (GROUP C) -

USA - 2
(Donovan 48')
(Bradley 82')

SLOVENIA - 2
(Birsa 13')
(Ljubijankic 42')

FINAL SCORE - Match #23 (GROUP C) -

ENGLAND - 0

ALGERIA - 0

FINAL SCORE - Match #24 (GROUP D) -

GHANA - 1
(Asamoah Gyan *PK* 25')

AUSTRALIA - 1
(Holman 11')

FINAL SCORE - Match #25 (GROUP E) -

JAPAN - 0

NETHERLANDS - 1
(Sneijder 53')

DP McCoy

06-19-2010, 11:49 AM

That was bloody awful.

The way they are playing, England don't deserve to qualify for the knockouts. Slovenia probably fancy their chances against us.

Absolutely!On the evidence so far Slovenia will be feeling confident of beating our lot.The performance against Algeria was pitiful,Capello needs to change things or we will be out.Perhaps it's time to ditch 4-4-2 and gamble on a new formation?I would switch to a 4-4-1-1 formation,my team would be LB A Cole,CB Terry,CB Dawson,RB Johnson,LM J Cole,CM Barry,CM Lampard,RM Lennon,Support striker Gerrard and centre forward Rooney.Bringing in Joe Cole would in my opinion add the creativity that has been lacking and giving Gerrard a more forward role would provide the energy and drive the forward line has been devoid of in recent matches.
As for Wayne Rooney,If he feels the England supporters let the team down by booing at the final whistle he should replay the match and listen to the English supporters voices rise above even the vuvuzela's as they sang the national anthem several times in the second half in an attempt to encourage their team,the mardy little git.
The criticism of England and Rooney's actions overshadowed a spirited effort from the Algerians,credit where credit is due they showed admirable commitment and effort.

_____V_____

06-19-2010, 12:29 PM

FINAL SCORE - Match #26 (GROUP E) -

CAMEROON - 1
(Eto'o 10')

DENMARK - 2
(Bendtner 33')
(Rommedahl 61')

Angra should be here shortly to brag about this one. I leave it to him. ;)

scouse mac

06-19-2010, 01:52 PM

Absolutely!On the evidence so far Slovenia will be feeling confident of beating our lot.The performance against Algeria was pitiful,Capello needs to change things or we will be out.Perhaps it's time to ditch 4-4-2 and gamble on a new formation?I would switch to a 4-4-1-1 formation,my team would be LB A Cole,CB Terry,CB Dawson,RB Johnson,LM J Cole,CM Barry,CM Lampard,RM Lennon,Support striker Gerrard and centre forward Rooney.Bringing in Joe Cole would in my opinion add the creativity that has been lacking and giving Gerrard a more forward role would provide the energy and drive the forward line has been devoid of in recent matches.
As for Wayne Rooney,If he feels the England supporters let the team down by booing at the final whistle he should replay the match and listen to the English supporters voices rise above even the vuvuzela's as they sang the national anthem several times in the second half in an attempt to encourage their team,the mardy little git.
The criticism of England and Rooney's actions overshadowed a spirited effort from the Algerians,credit where credit is due they showed admirable commitment and effort.

Thats prob the team I would select too, certainly have Joe Cole on the left and have Gerrard playing through the centre. Rooney has since apologised for his criticism so maybe pass that of as frustration of the shit game he played and move on.

Still, it would be boring if England made it easy for us. We still have the players more than capable of turning Slovenia over, just whether Capello can forge them back into a team with a bit of drive and determination again. Roll on Wednesday!

On a Daniel Agger/Jan Molby tip, Im glad Denmark are still fighting for qualification. It was a good win over a capable Cameroon.

Angra

06-20-2010, 04:03 AM

FINAL SCORE - Match #26 (GROUP E) -

CAMEROON - 1
(Eto'o 10')

DENMARK - 2
(Bendtner 33')
(Rommedahl 61')

Angra should be here shortly to brag about this one. I leave it to him. ;)

Denmark..... finally a team that can WIN a match!! :D

_____V_____

06-20-2010, 05:21 AM

FULL TIME - Match #27 (GROUP F) -

SLOVAKIA - 0

PARAGUAY - 2
(Vera 27')
(Riveros 86')

_____V_____

06-20-2010, 07:52 AM

FULL TIME - Match #28 (GROUP F) -

NEW ZEALAND - 1
(Smeltz 7')

ITALY - 1
(Iaquinta *PK* 29')

A proud day for New Zealand. The Kiwis should be really happy.

The WC 2006 reigning Champions, on the other hand, are toothless. Disappointing show by Italy.

Angra

06-20-2010, 08:34 AM

Would've loved to see Zealand steal all 3 points in that match. They were sooo close in the end.

_____V_____

06-20-2010, 12:25 PM

FULL TIME - Match #29 (GROUP G) -

BRAZIL - 3
(Luis Fabiano 25', 50')
(Elano 62')

IVORY COAST - 1
(Drogba 79')

This was more like the Brazil we know. Some fantastic passing and pacing, plus perfect timing and co-ordination between Robinho, Kaka & Luis Fabiano resulted in the first 2 goals. Kaka had a hand in all 3, and he was really shining in this match. Drogba got one back for Ivory Coast but it was always a case of doing a little too much till the end.

The last 10 minutes got a bit sour though. Plenty of tackles were resulting in free kicks for either side, and the Ivory Coast players might be thinking Brazil were resorting to time wasting tactics. A very unsavory spat between them and Kaka resulted in him getting yellow carded twice and the subsequent Red Card to Kaka meant Brazil had to fight out the last 6-7 minutes with 10 men.

Ivory Coast kept pushing, but Brazil held their nerves and the Ivory Coast attacks at bay to take the fighting win.

Brazil are yet to strike their top form. They looked ominous in the front today, certainly much better than their first match, but their defending still leaves a lot to be desired. Conceding goals in both matches should be a worry for Dunga, their coach and former captain/defender. They need to keep improving.

Angra

06-20-2010, 12:54 PM

And might I add...

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p17/Kasper_76/Vuvuzela-gys.jpg

hellfire1

06-20-2010, 03:44 PM

Bastet

06-20-2010, 03:59 PM

They letting Blue-noses in here these days?

;)
Ok- will come out of the closet as a chelsea fan-for the best personal reasons in the world x
But my heart belongs to wolves :)

_____V_____

06-20-2010, 10:04 PM

That second goal was completely dubious, and the ref saw it as well but let it slide. Don't know if you got the images, but we certainly did.

Dubious and unexpected. The referee was letting a lot of things slide, until he got really trigger-happy in the final few minutes. Kaka getting that two yellows/red card for a tap on the chest? Poor refereeing.

But nothing is to be taken from Brazil's show. They were clearly the better team on view, and those attacking moves were at times breathtaking. They need to spruce up their defenses though, which look pretty shoddy except for Gilberto Silva in the middle.

roshiq

06-21-2010, 12:18 AM

Fabiano admits (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/799562/ce/uk/?cc=4716&ver=global) the handball goal!

It's really frustrating to see how the referees already started to ruining this tournament.

At first disallowing a clear & winning goal of USA against Slovenia.
Then Red card against Klose (Germany).
And latest...allowing a handball goal! I saw the replay where it seems like the referee was asking (with a smiling face) Fabiano whether that was handball or not!?! How funny! Later the way Kaka sent off through an act of drama from Kader Keita (IC) was outrageous, though this sorts incident happened before in earlier world cups.

FIFA should take this things seriously & try to take all the necessary means to prevent them happening again in coming stages. In a neutral point of view I think teams like Germany & Netherlands are usually the masters of creating of & taking advantages from this sorta dirty shows in the field. If FIFA failed to deal with the above cases soon, then there will be a threat of happening things like these again & again in later stages. Who knows..may be next time the chaos will go further & take in a form of riot (like the way Kaka-Keita drama looked like at the beginning)?

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 05:19 AM

Its RAINING GOALS in Cape Town, folks!!! :D

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 05:25 AM

FULL TIME - Match #30 (GROUP G) -

NORTH KOREA - 0

PORTUGAL - 7
(Meireles 29')
(Simao 53')
(Almeida 56')
(Tiago 60', 89')
(Liedson 81')
(C.Ronaldo 87')

What a super match for Portugal!

The heavens opened with their blessings of goals as SIX of them came in the second half - 3 in the space of merely seven minutes of each other, and the other 3 in the space of the final 9 minutes!

Korea were totally and utterly destroyed. Fantastic football by Portugal.

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 08:52 AM

FULL TIME - Match #31 (GROUP H) -

CHILE - 1
(Gonzalez 75')

SWITZERLAND - 0

This result makes it easier for Spain in this group. They still need to win tonight against Honduras though.

Angra

06-21-2010, 08:56 AM

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 09:47 AM

And i didn't catch a single second of it. :(

LIFE STINKS!!!!

I watched every moment of it. Nah nah nah nah nah...:p

zwoti

06-21-2010, 10:24 AM

I watched every moment of it. Nah nah nah nah nah...:p

everytime i came back into the office they had scored again :mad:

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 10:27 AM

everytime i came back into the office they had scored again :mad:

They were quite fantastic. The Koreans simply had no answer to them, and no clue as to what was going on.

Relentless, attacks after attacks, goals after goals. Wheeeee!! :D

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 10:48 AM

Superbbbbbbbbbb football magic by David Villa!!!

SPAIN 1 - 0!

DP McCoy

06-21-2010, 10:55 AM

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 11:21 AM

Halftime score reads 1 - 0 to Spain.

It could easily have been 4-0 or even 5-0, if Torres had converted all those chances he got in front of the Honduran goal. One of Villa's shots also hit the top bar of the goal in the first 5 minutes.

Torres looks to be struggling for form, while Villa is yet to hit his peak. The goal by him, however, was a sublime example of the immense talent and skills of the man.

Spain look pretty menacing tonight. Hoping for some more goals in the second half. I am thinking 3 - 0 to Spain.

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 11:38 AM

2 - 0 Spain in the 50th minute!

Its DAVID VILLA again!!

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 12:27 PM

FULL TIME - Match #32 (GROUP H) -

HONDURAS - 0

SPAIN - 2
(Villa 17', 51')

That scoreline could so easily have been a lot more dominating. Of all people, you just don't expect David Villa to miss a Penalty Kick!! And more so, when he was on the verge of completing his hattrick through this PK shot!

Plenty of other chances, some superb crosses and passes by the Spanish went to waste as they squandered at least half a dozen chances to score. It could have been another high scoring win like Portugal's earlier in the day, but in the end Spain have to be content with 2 - 0. At least they got a win under their belt.

The refereeing again was shoddy. At least 2 Penalty Kick calls in the first half went unheeded, and so did plenty of hard tackles. These referees need a long training lesson in proper and sound refereeing...maybe FIFA can arrange one of those once the WC is over.

Halfway point of WC 2010 at the end of this match. 32 matches gone, 32 left. It will be critical from tomorrow as each team has 1 match left. More analysis of each group and the teams' chances tomorrow, because I am off to bed right now.

DP McCoy

06-21-2010, 01:55 PM

Good football from the Spanish tonight,that's how a team should react from a disappointing opening game.

scouse mac

06-21-2010, 03:58 PM

Assuming Switzerland beat Honduras in their final game the Spanish will have to beat the impressive looking Chile. Thats no gimme

_____V_____

06-21-2010, 09:29 PM

MIDWAY THROUGH THE WC 2010...

Group A -

Uruguay looks very impressive. Their match against Mexico should be an absolute knocker. Expect at least 2-3 goals in that one.
Mexico would be going for the win too, no less. Their win would put France out for sure, because of the Goal Difference.
France would want Uruguay to win (because they haven't conceded any goals yet), and by at least a margin of 3 - 0, which would make their task of a scoreline of at least 2 - 0 in their must-win match against South Africa.
Easier said than done.
South Africa would want to go out with a bang in front of their home fans, and judging by the football France has displayed so far, I wouldn't be TOO optimistic about their chances.

Group B -

Argentina should win against Greece. No problems there.
The big match here would be Nigeria vs South Korea.
Goal Difference should play a vital role in this group too.
If Nigeria scores the win by at least a 2 goal margin, and Argentina beats Greece, Nigeria can still sneak in.
Don't think South Korea would be giving in so easily though.

Group C -

Slovenia look hot.
England look toothless.
English fans would be clamoring for the win here, and the demand for Joe Cole in the playing 11 with Rooney as the lone striker can become a reality in this game.
The big question is, can England still strike after that? They have to, because if they lose its bye-bye WC.
USA's win over Algeria should tighten the noose around England's neck.

Group D -

The shock defeat of Germany has thrown this group wide open too.
Serbia has a chance of qualifying, if they beat Australia even by a 1 - 0 margin.
Ghana - Germany will be the big match here. Expect some real fireworks in this one.

Group E -

The Netherlands have already qualified for the Round of 16. They should win against Cameroon, given the form they have displayed so far.
But it would be dangerous to take Cameroon easily. Even if they are out of the WC, they might wanna go out with a real bang.
The big match in this one is Japan - Denmark. Whoever wins goes into the next Round, loser goes home.

Group F -

Italy SHOULD fancy their chances against lowly Slovakia. The problem is, with the poor football they have shown so far, you would still doubt them to take the win in their last match. Do I have to mention it is a must-win situation for the Azurri?
Paraguay look good. They should win over New Zealand.
But what if the result goes the other way in this match? If NZL win, it could be bye-bye Italy.

Group G -

THE match of the final stages of the first Round - Brazil vs Portugal.
Both teams look intense and scoring heavily in their previous matches (Brazil has 5 goals so far and Portugal thumped 7 in their match yesterday), so this one should be a real mouth-watering cracker!
Ideally one would expect Brazil to sneak the win here, but Portugal wouldn't want that. Ivory Coast would have fancied their chances in this group with a Brazil win, but now with that huge Goal Difference which Portugal carries, it should be safe to assume that the two heavyweights of this group will pass into the next Round, regardless of the result of their cracker of a match.

Group H -

Spain vs Chile will be the decider in this one, I feel.
There could be a situation here where all 3 teams - Spain, Chile & Switzerland - could end up with 6 points each, and GD will play the pivotal role of choosing the final 2.
Switzerland would win against Honduras, so Spain goes into their final match with a must-win situation. Chile would be a real tough nut to crack. Interestingly poised, this group.

Its great to see at least 4-5 groups with chances wide open for at least 3 teams, if not all 4.

Just imagine the prospect coming along - what if Italy and France are knocked out of the WC in the First Round itself? The 2006 Champions and the Finalists both out?!

Though I am slightly more inclined towards Italy to sneak into the next Round. France's WC 2010 road however, looks like it should end in the first round itself. Too bad for the Les Bleus.

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 05:57 AM

Group A -

Uruguay looks very impressive. Their match against Mexico should be an absolute knocker. Expect at least 2-3 goals in that one.
Mexico would be going for the win too, no less. Their win would put France out for sure, because of the Goal Difference.
France would want Uruguay to win (because they haven't conceded any goals yet), and by at least a margin of 3 - 0, which would make their task of a scoreline of at least 2 - 0 in their must-win match against South Africa.
Easier said than done.
South Africa would want to go out with a bang in front of their home fans, and judging by the football France has displayed so far, I wouldn't be TOO optimistic about their chances.

France's WC 2010 road however, looks like it should end in the first round itself. Too bad for the Les Bleus.

Here we go, folks. The final part of Group A kicks off in 4 minutes.

If you are an ardent France fan, pray to the gods that the Mexico - Uruguay encounter doesn't end in a draw. And pray for the win.

hellfire1

06-22-2010, 05:59 AM

Here we go, folks. The final part of Group A kicks off in 4 minutes.

If you are an ardent France fan, pray to the gods that the Mexico - Uruguay encounter doesn't end in a draw. And pray for the win.

Here's hoping they go for the draw just to knock them out.

Boooooooo to France!!

:p

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 06:22 AM

Here's hoping they go for the draw just to knock them out.

Boooooooo to France!!

:p

Deport her already!! :D

Looks like the gods are on your side, gorgeous...because its

1 - 0 to SOUTH AFRICA in the 20th MINUTE!!!

hellfire1

06-22-2010, 06:32 AM

Deport her already!! :D

Looks like the gods are on your side, gorgeous...because its

1 - 0 to SOUTH AFRICA in the 20th MINUTE!!!

My throat hurts from screaming.... in my bf's face. :p

That red card was completely undeserving though. Poor Gourcuff. The refs are a bit trigger happy this year.

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 06:39 AM

Indeed. I thought he was gonna card Cisse for his lifted foot but instead it was Gourcuff, and it was straight RED! Maybe it deserved a Yellow at the most, but a Red? Come on!

And guess what?!

SOUTH AFRICA 2 - 0 in the 37th MIN!!!

To Hellfire's bf - don't worry. She will continue her screaming till the match is over. :D

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 06:54 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Uruguay - 1

Mexico - 0

France - 0

South Africa - 2

Just when you thought French football couldn't hit a more all-time low with the players' revolt midway through the WC, and Domenech making as many as SIX changes to the starting line-up including a new Captain, they trail by 2 goals and have been reduced to 10 men in a match they must win to entertain any hopes of staying alive.

Again, Domenech started without Henry. Don't know what's going on between player & coach there. Cisse came in as the lone striker.

Straight Red Card for Yoann Gourcuff meant the Les Bleus have been reduced to 10 men for the remainder of the match. As if that wasn't enough, South Africa pounded in 2 goals in spectacular style propelled by the loudest vuvuzelas you will ever get to hear in any match in South Africa so far.

Still hoping for that elusive miracle, France fans? Forget it. France is going out of the WC, and their football right now is in complete shambles.

I hope that Mexico gets an equaliser soon and fights out a draw against Uruguay, and both qualify for the next stage. Easily the two best teams on show in Group A.

hellfire1

06-22-2010, 07:55 AM

Mwahahaha!

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 07:56 AM

FULL TIME - Match #33 (GROUP A) -

MEXICO - 0

URUGUAY - 1
(Suarez 43')

FULL TIME - Match #34 (GROUP A) -

FRANCE - 1
(Malouda 70')

SOUTH AFRICA - 2
(Khumalo 20')
(Mphela 37')

Uruguay & Mexico go through to the Round of 16 - Mexico on basis of better Goal Difference over South Africa, who despite this win and level on points with Mexico, have been eliminated.

France & South Africa are knocked out of the WC, with France finishing on the bottom of the Group A table. Many congratulations to South Africa for winning the match.

As for the Les Bleus, the less said the better. I can almost hear Hellfire's screams of sheer delight from halfway across the world over here!! :D

Check the first two posts of this thread for the latest Updates, folks.

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 10:27 AM

Group B -

Argentina should win against Greece. No problems there.
The big match here would be Nigeria vs South Korea.
Goal Difference should play a vital role in this group too.
If Nigeria scores the win by at least a 2 goal margin, and Argentina beats Greece, Nigeria can still sneak in.
Don't think South Korea would be giving in so easily though.

And onward we go into the final 2 matches of Group B, folks. Kickoff in 3 minutes.

Argentina looks safe. It will be a toss-up between the other 3.

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 11:19 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Greece - 0

Argentina - 0

Nigeria - 1

South Korea - 1

Both matches are intriguingly poised. If the final result is the same as this, South Korea would qualify, just ahead of Greece in terms of Goals scored. Argentina look to be safely through.

But I have a feeling there is a twist ahead. Let's see what the next 45 minutes reveal for both games.

_____V_____

06-22-2010, 12:23 PM

FULL TIME - Match #35 (GROUP B) -

NIGERIA - 2
(Uche 12')
(Yakubu *PK* 69')

SOUTH KOREA - 2
(Park Jung Soo 38')
(Park Chu Young 49')

FULL TIME - Match #36 (GROUP B) -

GREECE - 0

ARGENTINA - 2
(Demichelis 77')
(Palermo 89')

Well, as I said, Argentina go on top of Group B with full 9 points from their 3 wins. Greece stand eliminated.

The fantastic match between Nigeria and South Korea ends in a thrilling 2 - 2 draw, which means even with their best efforts, Nigeria are knocked out. South Korea hang on and edge past Greece to be 2nd in Group B, and so advance into the Round of 16 behind Argentina.

The Round of 16 will see Argentina taking on Mexico, while South Korea will face Uruguay.

Good night, everyone.

scouse mac

06-22-2010, 04:44 PM

Argentina v Mexico should be a tasty encounter, looking forward to that one.

Next up, England v Slovenia. I start work tomorrow just at kick off time, I think its probably for the best I cant watch it.

Disease

06-22-2010, 08:56 PM

Australia are in a pickle, need to win tonight, but still we are not likely to make it through to the final 16.

So tonight Australia V Serbia, why the hell does it have to be on so late! 4:30am EST Australia, same as the game against Germany. Why couldn't the organiser schedule the games for countries on the other side of the world at more suitable times??? Bastards.

So I might sit through the two games before and hopefully see both England and U.S.A get beaten.

Bastet

06-23-2010, 05:53 AM

Ok, so my yankee sis in law has been promised diamonds if USA go through and England don't. She is already deciding whether she wants pink ones or the old style white! :rolleyes:

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 05:56 AM

Group C -

Slovenia look hot.
England look toothless.
English fans would be clamoring for the win here, and the demand for Joe Cole in the playing 11 with Rooney as the lone striker can become a reality in this game.
The big question is, can England still strike after that? They have to, because if they lose its bye-bye WC.
USA's win over Algeria should tighten the noose around England's neck.

And here we go, folks. Group C to be decided in 5 minutes' time.

Need I say that if both matches end as draws it won't help England one bit?

An USA win will really make English fans' hairs stand on end. ;)

And if you are one of them, pray for an Algeria win. Don't forget to pray for your win too.

...that is, if Slovenia decides to relent.

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 06:23 AM

Anddddddddddd its...

1 - 0 to ENGLAND in the 22nd Minute!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 06:50 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Slovenia - 0

England - 1

USA - 0

Algeria - 0

The scoreline of the first match could so easily have read 3 - 0, if Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard had done better with their fantastic chances in front of the Slovenian goal with the goalkeeper nowhere in sight.

As it stands, the goal by Defoe is the difference between the two sides right now. And it was a bit of poor goalkeeping by the Slovenian GK. Let's see if the Slovenian side picks up the ante in the second half. England look hungry, determined and ready to score some more.

USA should know by now that they need to win too, and a draw simply wont do them any good. If they win, they go through alongwith England. If they lose or draw, they will be out and Slovenia go through.

Algeria can also lick their lips. If they can eke out a win here they can upset the applecart and leapfrog right over Slovenia and USA. All 4 teams have a chance to qualify.

Let's see what the second half unfolds...

hellfire1

06-23-2010, 07:03 AM

I'm starting to get sick and fucking tired of seeing their goals refused...

hellfire1

06-23-2010, 07:52 AM

FINALLY!!

We're qualified bitches! :D

EDIT: Feel bad for Slovenia, though.

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 07:53 AM

FULL TIME - Match #38 (GROUP C) -

USA - 1
(Donovan 90'+1')

ALGERIA - 0

FULL TIME - Match #37 (GROUP C) -

SLOVENIA - 0

ENGLAND - 1
(Defoe 23')

England are through to the Round of 16. They hung on to their lead till the end and fought out the win. Although they could so easily have been 2 - 0 or even 3 - 0, as the second half started and almost immediately Defoe/Rooney got a fantastic chance to score and bungled it.

And what a match between USA and ALGERIA!

USA's Donovan scoring in the first minute of added time after 90 minutes were over! Fantastic show.

The English fans must be relieved and jubilant. The USA fans, however, should be out of the world right now because of this fantastic and thrilling last minute win!

USA top the group on the basis of more Goals scored, England finish runners-up. For all their efforts, poor Slovenia stand eliminated, along with Algeria.

Bastet

06-23-2010, 09:37 AM

Yay woop woop- go England, go England :D
Even if Rooney is a bloody overrated fool!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 10:28 AM

Group D -

The shock defeat of Germany has thrown this group wide open too.
Serbia has a chance of qualifying, if they beat Australia even by a 1 - 0 margin.

Ghana - Germany will be the big match here. Expect some real fireworks in this one.

And we tee off the final 2 matches for this Group in 2 minutes.

Two awesomely contested matches coming right up!

roshiq

06-23-2010, 10:37 AM

Now that's it!!...what I was expecting....ENGLAND-GERMANY match in 2nd round!:cool:

Germany should have a comfortable win against Ghana today as they had an unexpected defeat from Serbia in the 2nd game. I hope we'll see them in full swing like the way they appeared in the 1st match. I don't think Serbia can have a win against Australia with a huge goal difference like Germans did. And that will left Group D champion (Germany) will play (or I should say have a "War";)) against England (Group C runner up) in the 2nd round. This will be so goood...at least one of the "deserving" European football giants is going to be eliminated from the competition quite early than the 'expectations':p.

So far it seems a Latin American country is going to win the cup this time.

Btw, I have no hope for Italy though they used to be my one of the favorites besides Argentina, Brazil & Spain. But Spain will have a pretty tough time against Chili and even if they go through then they will have to face either Brazil or Portugal and both the teams have played far impressive football than Spain so far.

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 11:22 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Ghana - 0

Germany - 0

Serbia - 0

Australia - 0

I am VERY impressed by the Ghanaians.

The scoreline should be reading 3 - 1 to them, because they missed 3 absolutely exquisite chances of scoring a damn easy goal and snuffed them all out themselves by some god-knows-what bad luck.

Germany came close to scoring 1 too, but Ozil wasn't good enough to beat the Ghana GK, Kingston, who has been impressive throughout the first half. Germany look pale, and wilting. Cacau is playing today because Miroslav Klose was red-carded in the last match so he is missing out on this one.

And from what I am hearing about the Australia-Serbia match, it was really fast paced too with plenty of opportunities for both teams. Remember that Australia need to win, and win BIG, to advance on. Serbia have plenty of plans of their own though.

The second half promises of some very exciting moments to come. Hold on to your seats, folks!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 11:48 AM

And GERMANY ARE UP 1 - 0 in the 60TH MIN!!

What a fantastic thundering shot from Ozil!

...and almost immediately, Ghana NEARLY scored again! Second time in the second half they have missed another absolutely sure goal!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 11:56 AM

1 - 0 AUSTRALIA!

Tim Cahill scores in the 69th minute!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 12:01 PM

2 - 0 Australia!

Holman comes off the bench as a substitute and scores within 7 minutes of coming in!

_____V_____

06-23-2010, 12:24 PM

FULL TIME - Match #39 (GROUP D) -

GHANA - 0

GERMANY - 1
(Ozil 60')

FULL TIME - Match #40 (GROUP D) -

SERBIA - 1
(Pantelic 84')

AUSTRALIA - 2
(Cahill 69')
(Holman 73')

Australia win their last match and draw level with Ghana on points, but that huge Goal Difference caused by the loss to Germany in their first match means they stand eliminated, alongwith Serbia.

Germany win their match against Ghana, and both teams advance into the Round of 16. But the German win doesn't mean Germany was the superior side. It was Ghana who impressed for the whole duration of the match, and it was a classic tale of umpteen chances missed by them. The scoreline should have been 4 - 2 or even 5 - 2 in favor of Ghana, but somehow they squandered some very routine chances at scoring the elusive goal every time they got the opportunity.
Germany were slightly outclassed. They will realise it and come back stronger for their R 16 elimination match.

Round 16 lineup for them - GERMANY versus ENGLAND, and GHANA versus USA.

Good night, folks.

Disease

06-23-2010, 07:07 PM

I knew Australia were gone after that Germany match, it was all hope and luck from there on in. We really couldn't afford to lose to Germany by more than 2 goals and we also really needed to win 2 of our matches. We played it to close and didn't desrve to go through after the pathetic performance in round 1.

On the other hand, Australia played a good game against Germany, it was just not so satisfying knowing Germany had scored against Ghana.

ferretchucker

06-23-2010, 08:06 PM

HAHA! America are better than England at the moment. Hopefully that'll lower the team's morale and people will stop talking about this silly game as though we might win.

roshiq

06-24-2010, 04:32 AM

If both matches in Group F today end in draws with the same score, a coin toss will decide whether Italy or New Zealand advances.

After 270 minutes of nail biting endeavor against the world's best footballers, the World Cup fate of the Azzurri & All Whites could simply come down to a soccer lottery. As we know after two rounds of group F, Italy and New Zealand are locked together in second place after two draws and an identical number of goals for and against.
If that remains the situation after the 3rd group game for both team, FIFA will decide which side progress to the quarterfinals by picking a name out of a hat, so the All Whites or world champions Italy could be eliminated on the basis of a random draw.
Under Fifa rules, if two teams are equal on points at the end of the group stage, and have scored the same amount of goals, it comes down to goal difference. But Italy and New Zealand have scored the same amount of goals...just two in two games, so their goal difference is identical.

Although being a fan of Italian football IMO FIFA should let NZL go through as they took the lead while they were playing against Italy in 2nd group match. The world champions has been utterly disappointing in the field so far as in both earlier group matches they failed to goal first against their opponent and prevent the defeat by scoring later in the game.

It'll be sad for the All Whites if they get out from the tournament under such a funny lottery system. As a first timer in the World Cup they have been much impressive than Italy so far.

_____V_____

06-24-2010, 06:41 AM

Group F -

Italy SHOULD fancy their chances against lowly Slovakia. The problem is, with the poor football they have shown so far, you would still doubt them to take the win in their last match. Do I have to mention it is a must-win situation for the Azurri?
Paraguay look good. They should win over New Zealand.
But what if the result goes the other way in this match? If NZL win, it could be bye-bye Italy.

Into the 40th minute of both Group F matches, and guess what?

SLOVAKIA LEADS 1 - 0 OVER DEFENDING CHAMPIONS ITALY!!!

The other match between Paraguay and New Zealand is goalless so far.

Italy look very pale and very out of sorts. As I type this, another Slovakia attack results in the header going over the goal. The Slovakians look very impressive.

Heading out to a dinner meeting. Will post the updates once I am back.

_____V_____

06-24-2010, 08:59 AM

FULL TIME - Match #41 (GROUP F) -

SLOVAKIA - 3
(Vittek 25', 73')
(Kopunek 89')

ITALY - 2
(Di Natale 81')
(Quagliarella 90'+2')

FULL TIME - Match #42 (GROUP F) -

PARAGUAY - 0

NEW ZEALAND - 0

Yes it's official folks - THE DEFENDING CHAMPIONS OF 2006 ARE OUT OF THE WORLD CUP IN THE FIRST ROUND ITSELF!!

Honestly, they deserved to be out. In all 3 matches, the Azurri looked a very pale shadow of the team which won the 2006 WC. They were unimpressive and lacking motivation in this match too, from the first 40 minutes which I had seen them.

The Slovakians were very impressive. They deserve their win totally.

In the other match, Paraguay and New Zealand fought out a draw. Which meant Paraguay topped this group with Slovakia coming second, while New Zealand finished over Italy.

A very strange coincidence, this. Both Defending Champions and the Finalist teams of 2006 are out in the First Round itself in this edition. Goes to show that rankings don't mean anything - the team which plays superior football on its day, takes the win.

Bye bye to both Les Bleus and the Azurri.

Zero

06-24-2010, 12:30 PM

JAPAN!!!!! wow - who would have thought Denmark gets crushed by Japan!?!

Angra

06-24-2010, 12:42 PM

Shut up Shut up Shut up
Don't wanna hear it
Get out Get out Get out
Get out of my way
Step up Step up Step up
You'll never stop me
Nothing you say today
Is gonna bring me down

You asshole... :(

Can say for sure that Denmark wont be missed in this World Cup by anybody else than danish people, coz geez..

On another note, CONGRATS to the US for winning their group in front of England. That's awsome. :cool:

roshiq

06-24-2010, 12:46 PM

No one! The magnificence of J-Horror is showing on their football now:D

The first 2 goals were brilliant and both came from 2 superb free kicks for the very first time in this World cup.

Kudos Japan!

Angra

06-24-2010, 01:04 PM

Hahaha

J-horror for sure.

hellfire1

06-24-2010, 02:53 PM

On another note, CONGRATS to the US for winning their group in front of England. That's awsome. :cool:

YEAH BABY! You better recognize! :p

Seriously though, they've really stepped up their game. Their matches have been great to watch since the beginning... it's quite a shock.

scouse mac

06-24-2010, 03:13 PM

YEAH BABY! You better recognize! :p

Seriously though, they've really stepped up their game. Their matches have been great to watch since the beginning... it's quite a shock.

The US have landed themselves into a nice position. They definitely have enough about them to beat Ghana in the second round and it will be either Uruguay or South Korea in the quarter finals. Its more than possible they could make it to the semi-finals.

England, if they beat Germany on Sunday will probably face Argentina in the quarters. Thats a tough couple of games.

Disease

06-24-2010, 05:01 PM

YEAH BABY! You better recognize! :p

Seriously though, they've really stepped up their game. Their matches have been great to watch since the beginning... it's quite a shock.

I wouldn't be supporting France if I was you either. They were terrible. :p

Bastet

06-24-2010, 05:04 PM

YEAH BABY! You better recognize! :p

Seriously though, they've really stepped up their game. Their matches have been great to watch since the beginning... it's quite a shock.
Yes well done USA- sis is already picking her diamonds.
Bugger- we now have to play Germany, Argentina, Brazil and Spain:(

_____V_____

06-24-2010, 06:24 PM

FULL TIME - Match #43 (GROUP E) -

DENMARK - 1
(Tomasson 81')

JAPAN - 3
(Honda 17')
(Endo 30')
(Okazaki 87')

FULL TIME - Match #44 (GROUP E) -

CAMEROON - 1
(Eto'O *PK* 65')

THE NETHERLANDS - 2
(Van Persie 36')
(Huntelaar 83')

Yes who would have believed?! I am pretty sure everyone's fancied team was Denmark in their match, but instead the Asian team packed enough punches to shut out the Danish. On the day that mattered, they were simply the better team. Denmark were outmanouvered, outclassed and completely dominated. The two free kicks which resulted in the first two goals were evidence of Japan's wonderful talent in swinging this ball past unexpecting goalkeepers - something other teams need to watch out from now on.

The Netherlands also completed their expected win over Cameroon to finish top of this Group. Arjen Robben returned into their ranks and they fielded a full-strength squad. It was a tight match till the 83rd minute when Robben's perfectly timed run and shot rebounded back to substitute Huntelaar who scored the 2nd goal, which proved to be the decider.

The Netherlands will take on Slovakia, while Japan will be one-on-one against Paraguay.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 06:55 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Portugal - 0

Brazil - 0

North Korea - 0

Ivory Coast - 2

Well, Brazil vs Portugal was always going to be a clash of egos and history, and it was plenty evident in the first 46 minutes. Ruthless tackles after tackles were resulting in at least 7-8 yellow cards and one very early substitution for Brazil (the player involved was in serious danger of getting red carded because he was losing his cool and composure fast).
The only chance came through Nilmar's shot which was marvelously saved by the Portuguese GK. But overall, plenty of rough football but not many chances at either goal.

The Ivory Coast - North Korea match was more fascinating to watch. As one would have guessed, the half belonged completely to Ivory Coast who dominated almost the entire duration of the first half. Two superb runs by Drogba saw Yaya Toure and Romaric at the perfect place (in front of goal) at the perfect timing, and both didn't miss on converting them. Ivory Coast has come into the match knowing they were pursuing that HUGE Goal Difference Portugal has created by winning 7 - 0 over North Korea. They need to top that with their win, and also need a favor from Brazil to win (and win big) in their match, to entertain any hopes of going through.
But, as talented a side as Ivory Coast is, I seriously doubt they can win this match with a huge scoreline.

The other one isn't looking likely to be a big scoring match either. Let's see what happens in the second half.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 07:56 AM

FULL TIME - Match #45 (GROUP G) -

BRAZIL - 0

PORTUGAL - 0

FULL TIME - Match #46 (GROUP G) -

NORTH KOREA - 0

IVORY COAST - 3
(Yaya Toure 14')
(Romaric 20')
(Kalou 82')

As mouthwatering a prospect as the first match was, it was the most boring 90-odd minutes of football you will ever get to see. As Angra would say - *YAWN*, with a capital Y. It was like both teams had mutually agreed on playing out a draw, with either team hardly making an effort to score a goal. Even with 5 extra minutes given, neither team wanted to score a goal. It all petered out to a dull, mindless draw. Except for one fantastic run by Christiano Ronaldo, there was nothing else to report from this match except for some of the loudest and most angry (and disappointed) vuvuzelas ever blown in a WC match so far.

The other match was surely pretty exciting. No efforts were spared by the wonderful Ivory Coast team to pull off a huge win over North Korea, but they missed and were denied plenty of half-chances to score some. They kept the pressure up till the final minutes of extra time, but except for one wonderful moment when substitute Kalou scored a superb goal, the others didn't materialise for them.

Another very entertaining African team bites the dust.

Brazil finish first, Portugal take second.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 10:23 AM

Group H -

Spain vs Chile will be the decider in this one, I feel.
There could be a situation here where all 3 teams - Spain, Chile & Switzerland - could end up with 6 points each, and GD will play the pivotal role of choosing the final 2.
Switzerland would win against Honduras, so Spain goes into their final match with a must-win situation. Chile would be a real tough nut to crack. Interestingly poised, this group.

And so we kick off the final 2 matches of the First Round in about 8 minutes, folks. Yet another group where the final 2 matches hold the key to the selection of the last 2 teams for the Round of 16.

Spain needs to win, and win big.

Chile are no pushovers.

Switzerland would be licking their lips.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 10:56 AM

What a FANTASTIC GOAL by DAVID VILLA!!

Seriously folks, wherever you are, if you missed this goal, make it a point to catch it in a Highlights package or on your local Sports News, whatever.

One of the most stunning long range goals you ll ever get to see!

SPAIN LEAD 1 - 0!

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 11:23 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Chile - 0

Spain - 2

Switzerland - 0

Honduras - 0

First things first. Can FIFA do everyone a favor and put all the referees in front of a Firing Squad once the WC is over? Seriously, this is the worst refereeing I have seen in a WC in my life so far. Giving that poor Chilean player a second Yellow and subsequent Red card when he wasn't even looking or even touching Fernando Torres is glaringly harsh. It soured up the fabulous moment when Spain had hit their 2nd goal, courtesy of Iniesta through a superb pass by David Villa.

Damn the refereeing.

Chile have their work cut out. Not only are they trailing by 2 goals, but they are down to 10 men too. Beausejour had a couple chances of scoring but blew it, but now it remains to be seen if he will be as attacking as he was in the first half. Spain will look to keep possession as much as they can, and secure the win.

This makes the Switzerland - Honduras tie very interesting, now that the score reads 0 - 0 over there. Switzerland need to win with only 1 goal to pip Chile into the Round of 16. Spain look pretty much secure, unless Chile pulls out some big rabbits out of their hat in the second half.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 12:25 PM

FULL TIME - Match #47 (GROUP H) -

CHILE - 1
(Millar 47')

SPAIN - 2
(Villa 24')
(Iniesta 37')

FULL TIME - Match #48 (GROUP H) -

SWITZERLAND - 0

HONDURAS - 0

Well, like I predicted, Spain kept a firm hold of the ball after conceding a surprise goal barely 2 minutes into the second half. Which meant they fought out the win. Chile, surprisingly, didn't attack much either - either due to their being short by 1 man or because they had a hunch the other match was gonna end in a goalless draw.
Either way, the final 20-25 minutes of the first game became dull and boring. The result meant that Switzerland, who failed to convert their chances in their match against Honduras and were held to a goalless draw, were knocked out even after beating Spain in the first match of this group. Too bad.
Spain top the group, Chile finish runners-up.

_____V_____

06-25-2010, 12:32 PM

This is how the Round Of 16 (which begins tomorrow), looks like -

ROUND OF 16

49: [26/06] URUGUAY - SOUTH KOREA

50: [26/06] USA - GHANA

51: [27/06] GERMANY - ENGLAND

52: [27/06] ARGENTINA - MEXICO

53: [28/06] NETHERLANDS - SLOVAKIA

54: [28/06] BRAZIL - CHILE

55: [29/06] PARAGUAY - JAPAN

56: [29/06] SPAIN - PORTUGAL

Expect some real surprise results in the Elimination Round, folks. For now, lets have some of your predictions on them, if you are brave enough.

It's been a very unpredictable World Cup so far -

Disappointing Europeans.

Awful France & Italy.

Surprising Asians and Americans.

No flair South Americans.

Explosive and talented Africans.

7 - 0 Portugal.

Dull draws.

Piss-poor refereeing.

Details of all Groups and the matches in the first two posts of this thread. Keep checking those for the latest updates. Good night, everyone.

scouse mac

06-25-2010, 03:14 PM

49: [26/06] uruguay - south korea

50: [26/06] usa - ghana

51: [27/06] germany - england

52: [27/06] argentina - mexico

53: [28/06] netherlands - slovakia

54: [28/06] brazil - chile

55: [29/06] paraguay - japan

56: [29/06] spain - portugal

AUSTIN316426808

06-26-2010, 05:28 AM

Uruguay & USA

_____V_____

06-26-2010, 06:58 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

Uruguay - 1
(Suarez 8')

South Korea - 0

_____V_____

06-26-2010, 09:14 AM

FULL TIME - Match #49 (ROUND OF 16 - #1) -

URUGUAY - 2
(Suarez 8', 80')

SOUTH KOREA - 1
(Chung Yong 68')

It was a good game, with plenty of attacks on either goal and South Korea kept pushing Uruguay till they equalised in the 68th minute. But the man of the day, Suarez, was fantastic. The Ajax Amsterdam striker was in really awesome form and he scored two fantastic goals from very extreme angles (helped a bit by Diego Forlan no doubt), which would no doubt qualify as two of the finest hits into the net in this WC so far.

Uruguay advance on, brimming with confidence and ready to take on the world. Disappointment for South Korea, but they will be content with their showing in this WC.

_____V_____

06-26-2010, 10:26 AM

Good luck, USA! You are gonna need it.

Bill Clinton and several million Americans are supporting you! Go and show them you have it in you!

Angra

06-26-2010, 10:34 AM

No goals yet..

I'M BORED!!!

_____V_____

06-26-2010, 10:35 AM

Ha ha HAAAAA!! :D

Bored still?!

1 - 0 to GHANA!

Angra

06-26-2010, 10:36 AM

Oh.. there it was.

scouse mac

06-26-2010, 10:58 AM

Poor defending and the keeper should not be beaten at the near post like that. It was a good hit though.

_____V_____

06-26-2010, 11:21 AM

HALFTIME WHISTLE -

USA - 0

GHANA - 1
(KP Boateng 5')

The first 30-odd minutes belonged entirely to the Africans. They showed a lot of skill and pace as they kept piercing through USA's defenses repeatedly, and were denied plenty of half-chances. USA's defence looks full of loopholes.
The Americans tried to pull back some of their own attacks during the final 15 minutes of the first half, but Ghana held on to leave the field with that scoreline. Kingson, the Ghana GK and one of the best GKs on view in this WC, pulled off one fantastic save to deny USA a sureshot goal during this time.
Ghana's defenses look vulnerable though. The Americans should fancy their chances in the second half. Thing is, Ghana's attacks look pretty unstoppable. Can they keep Ghana's attacks at bay and pull 2 goals out of the hat?
Wait and see.