[Golden Legacy]

It's true, no South American team has lost a match yet.

How do you guys fancy your chances against Germany?

[gsninja]

Laharl, on Jun 24 2010, 02:54 AM, said:

well the South American teams are the only thing saving this world cup from being a complete embaressment

I disagree, USA gave this World Cup much-needed excitement as well. Plus, even though they're not as good as the top teams, they play pretty hard. South American teams are awesome in general, though, they're much better both skill-wise and entertainment-wise this year compared to Europe.

Also, Italy already got scored on, 1-0 Slovakia. The Azzurri truly are an embarrassment this year.

[Golden Legacy]

I will just say this; that last 20 minutes of the game was the most heart-pounding and brilliant yet. What a match. 3-2 for Slovakia.

[gsninja]

This all just proved that Lippi made terrible decisions for this World Cup. Chose an overall mediocre squad, did nothing to promote creativity among the Italians, and what I think was worse than everything else was not starting Pirlo. He changed everything for Italy, and definitely a big reason why the last 20 minutes was the only time in Italy's three games that they played like world champions.

Marcheti was garbage, Iaquinta was garbage, De Rossi was extremely disappointing...there are so many reasons I can think of that showed Italy definitely did not deserve getting out of the first round.

Sadly, I wish those thoughts would've made them losing easier...I was tearing up, this really hurts. Cannavaro's done, too.

[Moonear]

So, on to Group E. Netherlands is advancing regardless, Cameroon is already out, Denmark needs to pull off a win against Japan in order to advance, and all Japan needs is to tie Denmark (or win).

[TheEnglishman]

Golden Legacy, on Jun 24 2010, 01:52 PM, said:

How do you guys fancy your chances against Germany?

Well we've had mixed performances against them. 1966 and the match we won 5-1 against them were the highlights but they've knocked us out in the past. Both sides have been mixed in this World Cup so honestly it's hard to say. Heart says England, head says it'll be a draw at 90 minutes and we'll end up settling the match with England's least favourite part of football.

I watched the second half of the Italy match in the pub, I felt bad for them until this one woman supporting Italy complained when I suggested that their performances had been poor in this world cup. After that I was kinda glad they lost.

[gsninja]

Jesus Christ, Honda scored from a long-ass free kick.

GLORIOUS NIPPON

[TheEnglishman]

Japan were pretty good I thought, deserved the win.

[gsninja]

I didn't think they'd win by more than a point, not to mention two of the goals they scored were from free kicks. That's absolutely nuts.

Final group matches are tomorrow. I hope Chile thrashes Spain (Hey, I can hope a bit, right?) and Switzerland beats Honduras.

Brazil and Portugal are gonna be the ones advancing in their group lol.

[Golden Legacy]

TheEnglishman, on Jun 24 2010, 02:11 PM, said:

Well we've had mixed performances against them. 1966 and the match we won 5-1 against them were the highlights but they've knocked us out in the past. Both sides have been mixed in this World Cup so honestly it's hard to say. Heart says England, head says it'll be a draw at 90 minutes and we'll end up settling the match with England's least favourite part of football

I think England, on paper with the squad they have, has the quality to make it to the final even. Whether that'll happen during the Germany game I don't know. Right now, I would have to say advantage for the Germans because of players like Ozil, Podolski, Klose, and Mueller, who've proven key playmakers and done some creative good play in at least a few matches. England did better against Slovenia, with Rooney somewhat more alive, but still needs to wake up fully and really not waste chances.

Japan was phenomenal against Denmark. Two free kick goals and a beautiful bit of talent by Endo (I think?) at the end of the game. It was very well deserved.

For tomorrow, I hope Spain beats Chile and Switzerland is held to a draw by Honduras, so that both Spain and Chile can go through.


EDIT:

http://i.imgur.com/lKxA3.gif

[TheEnglishman]

Golden Legacy, on Jun 25 2010, 04:27 AM, said:

I think England, on paper with the squad they have, has the quality to make it to the final even. Whether that'll happen during the Germany game I don't know. Right now, I would have to say advantage for the Germans because of players like Ozil, Podolski, Klose, and Mueller, who've proven key playmakers and done some creative good play in at least a few matches. England did better against Slovenia, with Rooney somewhat more alive, but still needs to wake up fully and really not waste chances.

I don't see us making the final, just not good enough to be taking on teams like Brazil, Spain and Argentina. I agree with what you said about Rooney. He was closer to being the player you see at Man United in that match. Maybe it's because he was playing in red!

[Eugine]

Damn.
Brazil vs Spain if Spain qualifies?

Can Spain still win their group? I do not want a Brazil vs Spain match so early!!

[Golden Legacy]

TheEnglishman, on Jun 25 2010, 02:07 AM, said:

I don't see us making the final, just not good enough to be taking on teams like Brazil, Spain and Argentina. I agree with what you said about Rooney. He was closer to being the player you see at Man United in that match. Maybe it's because he was playing in red!

That seems to be true of many players, even Lionel Messi. He's unstoppable in Barcelona, and for Argentina he's great but not as spectacular, the same holds true for Cristiano Ronaldo. Somehow their club form is better than their national form.

Eugine: Spain is guaranteed to qualify if they beat Chile. The only thing that would stop Spain from topping the group is if Switzerland beats Honduras and it beats Honduras by 2 goals more than Spain beats Chile.

EDIT2: LOL AT SPAIN'S GOAL.

[Eugine]

YAY SPAIN!!! AWESOME GOAL!!
THAT'S MY TEAM!!

[gsninja]

There go my hopes of Spain getting knocked out of the first round. At least I can hope Switzerland can advance if they win and Chile is kept at a GD no higher than 0.

Also, LOL SPAIN because they're officially among the worst floppers in this World Cup. Torres is a bitch.

[Golden Legacy]

That was a horrible dive by Torres, agreed. Two very classy goals nonetheless.

[Eugine]

FUCCK CHILEE !! (btw, I am streaming it, which is about 5min behind I think)

[Golden Legacy]

Spain tops the group, Chile runner-up.

Brazil vs. Chile and Spain vs. Portugal are the Round of 16 matches to come.

[gsninja]

Aaaaaah, Switzerland didn't advance...oh well.

Got an e-mail from ESPN basically saying my brackets were so bad I'm getting a second chance to at least predict the round of 16 and win a Jabulani ball lol.

[TheEnglishman]

I was hoping for Brazil v Spain but I guess Chile just couldn't do it.

[Golden Legacy]

It could still happen, this way Brazil-Spain can happen only in the final.

By the way, South American teams are 5 for 5. Very impressive.

[TheEnglishman]

I wanted it in the next round so one of them would be knocked out.

[gsninja]

South America is rocking this year.

Also, for your amusement:

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/2995/1277496901848.gif

EDIT:

http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/8950/worldcupbracket.png

;)

[Eugine]

Fuck yeah! KOREA!! I really hope they win.

[Saturos S.]

2-1 Uruguay...

I was kind of rooting for Korea.

[Eugine]

I am too =[
Oh well, no need to worry about something I have NO control over.

[Golden Legacy]

I really was hoping for South Korea too, but I can't deny that Suarez's second goal was beautiful.

[Eugine]

Anyway, USA vs Ghana today. Probably the second most anticipated match for me (number one being Spain vs Portugal).

[Golden Legacy]

I think we have a good chance of beating Ghana... and even making it to the semis.

[TheEnglishman]

I think Ghana will take the game to the USA. I could imagine it going to extra time, maybe even penalties.

[Golden Legacy]

Well speaking of penalties, both of Ghana's goals have been from penalties thus far. I think they'll manage to convert a couple in normal play, but I don't know if their midfield players are as strong.

It'll depend on the USA mostly... if they play like in the 1st half against Slovenia, we'll be crushed. If we play like in that 2nd half, we should be able to dominate offense easily.

[TheEnglishman]

I never do much of the 'If we play the way we did against...' sort of talk. Each team brings a different style of football and just because one style of play worked against one team, there's no guarantee that it'll work again.
Besides when I say that to suggest England might win, it has a tendency to come back and bite me in the ass.

[Golden Legacy]

That's a fair argument. No two games are ever the same, even if it's the same team involved.

[Eugine]

AL-FUCKIN-READY?
Gosh.

[gsninja]

Man, can I say shitty first half performance? Findley also blew a great chance.

[Golden Legacy]

Very poor... Donovan needs to have a more central role. I say Altidore should give way to Dempsey as the key striker, and how was that chance missed? We should have had Edu and Gomez from the beginning and not Clark and Findley, who missed that chance.

[TheEnglishman]

Looks like the USA are going to 'win' 1-1 again.

[gsninja]

Altidore = Flop like De Rossi and Torres.

I'm disappointed.

[Golden Legacy]

YES! SOMEBODY FINALLY DANCED WHEN HE SCORED! THANK YOU GYAN!

[Eugine]

Ah well, I'm not watching again. Hopefully USA pulls of a win.

[Golden Legacy]

We've still got 12 minutes of overtime... we can do this. Come on Donovan, make your magic.

[TheEnglishman]

Overtime? What crazy words you guys use.

[Golden Legacy]

What do you guys call it?

[TheEnglishman]

Extra time. Usually followed by penalties in England's case.
EDIT: ;)

[gsninja]

World Cup isn't worth watching anymore. I'm out.

Also, there should be some kind of punishment for running out the clock like that. That kind of shit is just dirty...

[Golden Legacy]

God damn it... we were so close. I feel quite sad right now... bah.

[Eugine]

Ah well.
Let's go Germany!!! Let's go Argentina!!!

[TheEnglishman]

BUTTSEX, on Jun 26 2010, 09:04 PM, said:

World Cup isn't worth watching anymore. I'm out.

Also, there should be some kind of punishment for running out the clock like that. That kind of shit is just dirty...

There isn't a team in the tournament that wouldn't do that if they were holding a tight lead like that, including the USA.

[gsninja]

It doesn't matter who's doing it, it should be punished. I mean, come on, it's borderline cheating the game.

[TheEnglishman]

It's not in the spirit of the game but that's just the way it is. It's gamesmanship rather than cheating. Dubious yes, but everyone does it.

[gsninja]

Yeah, I know. ): I still feel butthurt every time I see it.

[TheEnglishman]

So if the USA were winning in the final 1-0 against Brazil with three minutes left...

[Sea of Time]

TheEnglishman, on Jun 26 2010, 03:58 PM, said:

So if the USA were winning in the final 1-0 against Brazil with three minutes left...

Pigs would be flying in Johannesburg.

[Eugine]

Digg comment said:

Looks like the USA....

:puts on sunglasses:

.... are Ghanas.

I LOL'd. I love Digg.

[Caael]

Sea of Time, on Jun 27 2010, 01:34 AM, said:

Pigs would be flying in Johannesburg.

http://coldfire.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/district-9-trailer.jpg

What about prawns?

[Golden Legacy]

England vs. Germany... let's go!

[Legolastom]

...

Fucking reffs this world cup.

[Golden Legacy]

What's the argument against video technology again? This is absurd.

EDIT: 4-1. Wow.

[TheEnglishman]

I've got nothing to say. Almost makes me consider changing my username.

[Golden Legacy]

If there is any consolation, the 2nd half would have been entirely different had Lampard's goal counted as it should have been. Going into halftime tied is different than going into halftime down a goal. It would have encouraged the English side to be more offensive and given them a boost to come from two goals behind to tie it 2-2, lots of momentum going forward.

Still, Germany definitely was the stronger team out there, no question about it...

[TheEnglishman]

Look even if Lampard's goal had counted, it would only hide England's poor performance. Germany could have gone in 4-1 at half time and they unleashed it against us in the second half. The defence was very poor and ultimately a lot of the players did not perform.

[Caael]

Hahahah we were utterly DICKED. Pisses me off though how eveyrbody is saying ridiculously biggoted things like "you may have won the football but we won two world wars; who's really winning?". Hardly comparable subjects.

[TheEnglishman]

England fans don't really say that with a serious point, it's more just to maintain the rivalry.
I really want to say this is the shock that the FA need to make changes in England, but they ignored the situation in 2006 and 2008 so I don't see any changes here.

[gsninja]

These refs, man. I don't remember another World Cup with refs this terrible.

Still, England got outperformed. Granted, if they went 2-2 at halftime, they would've played with more confidence as well as more momentum like GL said. Granted, they probably would've still lost, but not like this.

[TheEnglishman]

It wouldn't have made much difference even if it was 2-2 at half time and FIFA will just ignore the issue anyway. They've already insisted they won't bring in the technology even though it's available to pretty much every TV station.
Also, England shouldn't focus all their anger on the phantom goal. Doing so gives them an excuse for the awful performance. They need a sweeping change across English football, if they plan on winning the World Cup in the next twenty years. Give more English players a chance in the Premiership. Don't give such attention to the England camp that it begins to resemble a goldfish bowl. When England won the World Cup in 1966, football wasn't such a big thing and the players were able to relax. Now the focus is always on them and they don't have a chance.

[Golden Legacy]

That is true, the pressure on the players must be unbelievable. They can't replicate their club forms in their national forms.

One interesting comment I saw on the BBC live commentary was that Germany used a 4-2-3-1 formation, while England used the 'archaic' 4-4-2. Perhaps a more modern, free-flowing formation is what's needed, among other changes.

[Moonear]

Can someone fill me in on why the refs were bad/what awful calls they made? I missed the game :[

[Golden Legacy]

A hot German girl ran onto the pitch to distract Lampard from taking the goal. The ball went in, but the referee was too busy paying attention to the girl and trying to woo her away from the English players, and so the goal was disallowed.

... Alternatively, this happened.

[Eugine]

Argentina really knows how to make football exciting.

My teams for today won btw ^.^
I dunno who I am supporting tomorrow between Netherlands and Slovakia. I guess Netherlands?
Let us go Brazil!!

[TheEnglishman]

Supporting teams for the day? That must be convenient...

[Golden Legacy]

I am very impressed with Muller and Ozil from Germany. They're going to be rising stars whose names we will know as well as Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney, and others. I expect Germany to win next week against Argentina, although it's going to be a close and great game (hopefully).

[Saturos S.]

I already broke my killed my stress ball today over England losing. If Germany beat Argentina as well, I fear for my stress ball in doctor shape.

[gsninja]

http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup...?urn=sow,251686

Best part of the Argentina match right there.

[Eugine]

Why isn't there a review system for football? They have one for practically every sports. I hope one is implemented for the next World Cup.

BUTTSEX, on Jun 27 2010, 05:37 PM, said:

http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup...?urn=sow,251686

Best part of the Argentina match right there.

I LOL'd.

[TheEnglishman]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs120.snc4/36349_1147326060966_1761992107_266966_5124369_n.jpg

[Eugine]

I really hope the British media and people aren't using this as a scapegoat for losing...

[gsninja]

http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup...ovan062710.html

Quote

Man City has historically operated in the shadow of its cross-town rival Manchester United, one of the most successful teams in English and European club soccer history. But since being purchased by Sheikh Mansour and his consortium of uber-rich oil magnates in 2008, the team’s fortunes have been transformed.

More than $250 million has been invested in the squad, including high-profile signings such as Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor (formerly of EPL side Arsenal), Argentina forward Carlos Tevez (Man United) and Brazil forward Robinho (Real Madrid). Man City’s next goal is a top-four finish in the Premier League and a place in the UEFA Champions League.

Donovan would represent solid value for the ambitious club. He would likely cost around $12 million in transfer fees, which would be paid by Man City and split between the Galaxy and Major League Soccer.

Good job Donovan.

[Caael]

Eugine, on Jun 27 2010, 10:43 PM, said:

I really hope the British media and people aren't using this as a scapegoat for losing...

Just as the American media didn't perpetuate the 1-1 USA England game as a win?

[Eugine]

BUTTSEX, on Jun 27 2010, 06:08 PM, said:

http://g.sports.yahoo.com/soccer/world-cup...ovan062710.html
Good job Donovan.

Uh, I don't follow Club football that much. Is it unusual for an American to be in bidding for a European football team?

[TheEnglishman]

Eugine, on Jun 27 2010, 09:43 PM, said:

I really hope the British media and people aren't using this as a scapegoat for losing...

That's a pretty ridiculous assumption. The only way that would happen is if they saw nothing but the end of the first half. Rest assured the papers will be calling for Capello to be sacked and announcing that all the players are overhyped, overpaid whingers. Of course they'll ignore the fact they've been following them around 24/7 and given them so much attention, and they certainly won't offer any constructive thoughts.

Donovan shouldn't go to Man City. They'd keep him on the bench and wouldn't play him much. It would probably damage his career more than enhance it. He impressed during his loan spell at Everton, maybe he should look back there.

[Golden Legacy]

How does Everton compare with the other major clubs? Does it compare with Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, etc? Donovan's easily the best player to come from the USA, ever, and I think his quality ranks up there with the best of players in any top club, which I'm assuming Everton is, but I do not know too much about club football.


EDIT:

http://i.imgur.com/Yd4xq.png

[Saturos S.]

Eugine, on Jun 27 2010, 11:39 PM, said:

Why isn't there a review system for football? They have one for practically every sports. I hope one is implemented for the next World Cup.

A lot of people really do want a review system, a goal cam of some sorts for quick checks that the 4th official can do. Sepp Blatter is mainly against it for a different reason each time but mainly because he thinks it'll take up too much time and that it will "deromance" the football. Crappy reasons in my opinion since the time thing as already been disproven. Football really needs to make some changes in terms of using the technology available.

Also, Sepp Blatter should get the ... out of FIFA, he's just so shady. It all started with his election in 1998 really...

[TheEnglishman]

Golden Legacy, on Jun 28 2010, 01:06 AM, said:

How does Everton compare with the other major clubs? Does it compare with Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, etc? Donovan's easily the best player to come from the USA, ever, and I think his quality ranks up there with the best of players in any top club, which I'm assuming Everton is, but I do not know too much about club football.

Everton are a good side, but not as good as United or Chelsea. From what I've seen of Donovan, I don't think he'd make it into those sides, at least he wouldn't be playing in the first team every single week. I think he'd be better suited to a team slightly lower down in the table, like Everton, where he'd get more chance to play and learn the English game.

[Golden Legacy]

That's a good point actually. Going to one of the top clubs like Chelsea or United would mean he would outshined by the other big-name players. I still would like to think Donovan has the ability to play for and even start for a Chelsea or a United, but I guess it would be too much to expect. Hopefully he'll go to Everton then, and hopefully people will appreciate what amazing players the USA can produce.

If I'm not mistaken, Clint Dempsey from the USA has also played for a European club, though I forget which.

[TheEnglishman]

Dempsey plays over here for Fulham. He's pretty good.

[Golden Legacy]

Oh neat, I did not know that.

And, sorry, I just have to post this:
http://i.imgur.com/nvb8X.png

[Saturos S.]

Did anyone see the FIFA press conference today? The journalists were really grilling the FIFA press secretary on the fact that the FIFA isn't keeping up with other sports with intergrating technology.

Trying to find a vid.

[edit]

Can't find one. Anyway, half the press ended up walking out on the conference since Maignot wasn't answering any proper questions and at the end Maignot presented a Sepp Blatter video where Blatter was proudly announcing something trivial (a football tournament thingie somewhere), at which the remaining press people decided to leave.

[TheEnglishman]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/w...010/8766423.stm
That seems to show the general unwillingness of FIFA to answer the issue.

[Golden Legacy]

Japan is defeated on penalty kicks. Paraguay moves on, and the final 8 now has four teams from South America.

[Eugine]

Will be sooo cool if Spain wins the World Cup now. I hate South America now for some reason. I felt it for Japan =[

God, I really hope Spain beats Portugal!

[Golden Legacy]

I really was supporting Japan too. It would have been nice to have an Asian country in the quarter-finals. I think Honda and Endo are two of the best players in this World Cup hands-down and it's a shame they aren't going through.

It looks like half of the quarter-finalists are from South America now, even more than Europe.


EDIT: Halftime, Spain 0-0 Portugal. Amazing, thrilling game, lots of great play and strong offense.

[gsninja]

I wanted Japan to win the World Cup after USA and Italy lmao. It would've been an amazing upset. Fucken' Paraguay, I hope Portugal murders them when they beat Espagna. ;)

[Eugine]

LOL.

I shouted yes like if I was freakin cumming when Spain scored that goal.
Sry for being explicit ^^

[gsninja]

Rofl, it's k.

Villa did deserve that goal, Spain did some nice passing in the box to get Villa into that position. Man of the Match was easily Eduardo, though. Bloody amazing goalkeeping, he took out virtually all of Spain's chances, and he can't be blamed for Villa's goal at all.

Hugely disappointing World Cup so far for me, though. Italy, USA, and Japan are all out, and they were the only teams I actually wanted to see win this year. I'm gonna try throwing my support behind Spain so they can lose, since that's apparently what's happening to all the teams that I support. ;)

[Golden Legacy]

Spain had control of that game no problem, they deserved to win. Casillas is a little shaky for Spain's defense though, they're clearly all about the Barcelona-style of passing, possession, and offensive flair, which is a joy to watch.

So for the quarterfinals, we now have:

Uruguay vs. Ghana
Argentina vs. Germany
Netherlands vs. Brazil
Spain vs. Paraguay

[TheEnglishman]

Some fairly interesting matches there. Argentina v Germany will be pretty tough for both teams.

[Eugine]

w00t w00t. This can only increase Spain's chances of winning. YAY!! Not feeling South America anymore anyway.

[Golden Legacy]

Well, I am sure SS and Diddy are happy right now.

[Eugine]

LOL.

I am actually supporting Ghana btw...

[Golden Legacy]

What a bastard move by Suarez at the end. I still can't believe Gyan missed that penalty. Wow. This has to be the cruelest way for any nation to exit the World Cup, ever.

[Eugine]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 2 2010, 05:19 PM, said:

What a bastard move by Suarez at the end.

I would have done the samething. Who wouldn't have?

[Golden Legacy]

Well, I don't know really. I've seen plays at the very end like that where players don't, so I'd have to say it's as much a character issue as it is tactical. It makes sense to do it, sure, but I very much doubt every player has that instinct to use their hands (unless we're now starting to justify what Thiery Henry did against Ireland, and so forth).

[TheEnglishman]

It was a tactical decision. Cruel yes, but I doubt many people will be complaining back in Uruguay.
Still what a match though, two of the teams no one expected to make an impact in this World Cup have really done well. Uruguay have shown some brilliant skill, whilst Ghana have given a strong account of themselves and shown how far African football has come. The scenes at the end were harrowing for Ghana, but the spirit they've shown is amazing. I saw pictures of the team all together dancing in their hotel. You can see how much it means to them, and whilst the myths of the 'big' teams (including England) have been blown away at this World Cup, Ghana have shown how you can both enjoy yourself and progress in the tournament. I've got a lot of respect for them.

[Golden Legacy]

Not to mention, Ghana is an incredibly young team. The average age is around 24-25 (with 6 out of 23 players on the U-21 team), by far the youngest of any in the World Cup, and they proved they could make it to just about the semifinals. In 2014, they're going to hit their stride as their players mature and become an even more powerful team.

I've got a lot of respect for them too, and I have to say this World Cup will really be missing them.

[TheEnglishman]

Gotta give credit to Uruguay too. I expected them just to make up the numbers in the group stages, but they've been brilliant.

[Golden Legacy]

Well, they've got the twenty year interval going on... Uruguay won the first World Cup in 1930. They beat Brazil in the final of 1950. They were in the semifinals of 1970 and advanced out of the group stages in 1990.

So they make the semifinals of 2010 at least. Fair enough to them, I do remember hearing talk before the tournament about them being possible dark horse candidates, and now we see why.

[Laharl]

*backed Uruguay from the start*

being right is great, especially when its as hilarious as last night

[Golden Legacy]

Were you backing them from the beginning of the tournament, or just for this match?

[Eugine]

FUCK YEAH!!!!!!!

[gsninja]

How in hell...already?

[Eugine]

How good is Paraguay? Really pumped about the match this afternoon.

[Moonear]

Incredible show from Germany today, every one of their goals was awesome.

[Eugine]

Blah... I found them to be way too easy.
LET'S GO SPAIN!

[TheEnglishman]

Germany have gotta be favourites now.

[Mallick]

Argentina nooooo ;__;

[Eugine]

TheEnglishman, on Jul 3 2010, 11:53 AM, said:

Germany have gotta be favourites now.

Practically all the commentators are saying that now. Blah. That Spain Germany clash will be epic. Hopefully Spain doesn't fuck up this afternoon.

[Golden Legacy]

I wish Spain-Germany would be the final. The Euro 2008 final was fun to watch.

I expect (and hope) the Netherlands to sweep past Uruguay if they were able to beat Brazil, and I'd expect Spain-Netherlands or Germany-Netherlands for the final. Preferably the former, so this way we can have a new World Cup champion guaranteed.

[Eugine]

I can't take it... I need to breathe.

EDIT: I DO NOT LIKE HOW SPAIN IS PLAYING.

[Golden Legacy]

They picked up towards the end. Hard-fought victory, but nice goal for David Villa.

Spain vs. Germany
Netherlands vs. Uruguay

Semifinals for next week!

[Eugine]

For some reason I expect a Netherlands vs Germany finals. Spain really needs to improve for their next game somehow if they expect to beat Germany.

[Golden Legacy]

I wasn't impressed with them for the first 75 minutes. Spain is at their best when they keep possession and hold the midfield. Without it, they'll easily get beaten by Germany, no question.

I also don't know why Torres keeps starting. I know he's still recovering and has looked better since the beginning of the tournament, but I would just replace him with Cesc Fabregas or Llorente. Pedro did well in the game too.

[Saturos S.]

What a bloody brilliant second half. I was jumping through the living room with those 3 penalties in 5 minutes. Though the encroachment decision by the referee was a bit odd.

But YAY, Spain through to the semi's. Europe is finally starting to live up to their football reputation with 3 teams still in it. Hoping for a Spain - Netherlands final, just really don't want them to meet the Germans in the finals.

[Eugine]

Saturos S., on Jul 3 2010, 04:39 PM, said:

But YAY, Spain through to the semi's. Europe is finally starting to live up to their football reputation with 3 teams still in it. Hoping for a Spain - Netherlands final, just really don't want them to meet the Germans in the finals.

It's so wonderful to see South America go from hero to zero lmao. Europe got this for sure.

Anyway, two more matches from predicting the correct World Cup champion. Germany's performance today (and Netherlands) has me a bit worried though. We got this Spain... My confidence is broken a bit.

[Golden Legacy]

Saturos S., on Jul 3 2010, 04:39 PM, said:

But YAY, Spain through to the semi's. Europe is finally starting to live up to their football reputation with 3 teams still in it. Hoping for a Spain - Netherlands final, just really don't want them to meet the Germans in the finals.

Is is true that there's a huge football rivalry between Germany and the Netherlands?

EDIT:

http://twitpic.com/21ztpj

[Saturos S.]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 4 2010, 02:01 AM, said:

Is is true that there's a huge football rivalry between Germany and the Netherlands?

EDIT:

http://twitpic.com/21ztpj

Well there is quite a rivalry. It's a playful rivalry though, not that bashing each others skulls in you see in some football rivalries. A bar in the neighbourhood for example is using a German flag as a doormat during the world championship. So everyone can wipe their dirty boots on the German flag, stuff like that. But we already lost one final to the Germans ('74 or '78), so another one would make all the German tourists over here unbearable for the rest of the summer.

But yeah, beating the Germans would be quite big over here.

[edit] O dear, I just noticed I'm talking about the Dutch football team in the "we" sense. Reminds me of a a sketch from that Mitchell and Webb look.

[Laharl]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 3 2010, 02:58 PM, said:

Were you backing them from the beginning of the tournament, or just for this match?

Laharl, on Jun 24 2010, 10:46 AM, said:

not really, Uruguay have always had a strong side

*had them down to top group A*

[Eugine]

Let us go Spain! Will be a hard fight against Germany, but we bested them in 2008, so we can do it again.

[gsninja]

Paraguay had Spain in their clutches, I got so irritated when Valdez's goal was called off. Also, how about Spain getting their penalty called off for the encroachment when Paraguay didn't get a redo when the exact same thing happened? Kinda stupid, but oh well.

Either way, I'm not sure whether I want Netherlands or Germany to win.

[Eugine]

BUTTSEX, on Jul 5 2010, 06:05 PM, said:

Either way, I'm not sure whether I want Netherlands or Germany to win.

Neither me.
I'm only really rooting for Spain. Kinda want Netherlands to win more I guess if Spain goes out... Let's get a new champion.

[Golden Legacy]

Saturos S., on Jul 4 2010, 03:56 AM, said:

Well there is quite a rivalry. It's a playful rivalry though, not that bashing each others skulls in you see in some football rivalries. A bar in the neighbourhood for example is using a German flag as a doormat during the world championship. So everyone can wipe their dirty boots on the German flag, stuff like that. But we already lost one final to the Germans ('74 or '78), so another one would make all the German tourists over here unbearable for the rest of the summer.

But yeah, beating the Germans would be quite big over here.

[edit] O dear, I just noticed I'm talking about the Dutch football team in the "we" sense. Reminds me of a a sketch from that Mitchell and Webb look.

That skit was hilarious. Thanks for the insight, a Netherlands-Germany final would be a great performance nonetheless. I easily expect you Dutch to make it to the final, I think most people consider it most likely. And without a doubt, the Netherlands is the best side never to have won the Cup, so there's that too. I'd say it's about your time.

BUTTSEX, on Jul 5 2010, 06:05 PM, said:

Paraguay had Spain in their clutches, I got so irritated when Valdez's goal was called off. Also, how about Spain getting their penalty called off for the encroachment when Paraguay didn't get a redo when the exact same thing happened? Kinda stupid, but oh well.

Spain disappointed for the first 70 minutes, I agree. Paraguay came out surprisingly strong, and those 60 minutes of (missed) penalties was undoubtedly weird and really a sign of inconsistent refereeing.

When Spain hits its stride though, I think they're unstoppable, as their dominance of possession and midfield is unquestioned. It's going to be fantastic to see them up against Germany which has really come out as a youthful, vigorous, and even creative team (not words you usually associate with their football).

[Eugine]

Isn't this German team younger than the team which represented them in 2006 though? I remember reading/hearing that somewhere.

[Golden Legacy]

It definitely is, that's what I said. Muller and Ozil in particular.

[Eugine]

Eugine, on Jul 6 2010, 12:12 AM, said:

Isn't this German team OLDER than the team which represented them in 2006 though? I remember reading/hearing that somewhere.

Sry, I meant to write OLDER.

[gsninja]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 5 2010, 08:22 PM, said:

When Spain hits its stride though, I think they're unstoppable, as their dominance of possession and midfield is unquestioned. It's going to be fantastic to see them up against Germany which has really come out as a youthful, vigorous, and even creative team (not words you usually associate with their football).

Although there's no doubt about how dominant their short-passing and midfield coverage are, as they totally deserved the Euro Cup with that style of play, it's not a fluke as to why Spain always disappoints in the World Cup. I can see them giving Germany a challenge, but there's no way they can win on their own merits.

I agree on a point that you mentioned before, and that's not to start Torres. He's absolute garbage, I'm believing less and less that the injury he sustained has anything to do with his abysmal performance. I think his long hair was his magic. :P Pedro should definitely be the replacement.

[Laharl]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 6 2010, 05:34 AM, said:

It definitely is, that's what I said. Muller and Ozil in particular.

Muller is suspended for fuck all >__>

suspension system at this world cup is ridiculous, yellow cards used to wiped after the group stage

[TheEnglishman]

BUTTSEX, on Jul 6 2010, 05:48 AM, said:

Although there's no doubt about how dominant their short-passing and midfield coverage are, as they totally deserved the Euro Cup with that style of play, it's not a fluke as to why Spain always disappoints in the World Cup. I can see them giving Germany a challenge, but there's no way they can win on their own merits.

I agree on a point that you mentioned before, and that's not to start Torres. He's absolute garbage, I'm believing less and less that the injury he sustained has anything to do with his abysmal performance. I think his long hair was his magic. :P Pedro should definitely be the replacement.

Torres's performances in the league have been pretty good, it's a mystery why so many big names haven't replicated that form at this world cup.

[Laharl]

maybe you guys who know nothing about a player's domestic form should do a little more research before sticking the international knife in?

[Saturos S.]

TheEnglishman, on Jul 6 2010, 10:24 AM, said:

Torres's performances in the league have been pretty good, it's a mystery why so many big names haven't replicated that form at this world cup.

Well with Messi, everyone in the Barcelona team is supplying Messi and moving around him. Argentina as a team just doesn't have anyone moving around him.

Torres hasn't played much this season in the league, on the few appearances he made though, he was a lot more spectacular than in the world cup uptill now. But he hasn't had a real form all season.

[TheEnglishman]

Laharl, on Jul 6 2010, 10:56 AM, said:

maybe you guys who know nothing about a player's domestic form should do a little more research before sticking the international knife in?

I mean in general he's been good for Liverpool but last season he wasn't so influential. Guess I should have been a little clearer.
Then again no one at Liverpool was particularly influential last season were they Laharl? :P

[Laharl]

1. That wasnt aimed at you
2. He was injured for most of last season
3. TT_TT

[gsninja]

Laharl, on Jul 6 2010, 03:56 AM, said:

maybe you guys who know nothing about a player's domestic form should do a little more research before sticking the international knife in?

When did Torres' domestic performance even come into this? Don't make excuses for him, nothing changes the fact that he's been terrible in the World Cup this year. He shouldn't start.

[TheEnglishman]

@Laharl: It was all just a subtle plan to make fun of Liverpool. When you support Aston Villa an opportunity to make fun of someone else is a benefit. (Also I know I said I supported Man U in the past but that's from my glory hunting days.)

BUTTSEX, on Jul 6 2010, 04:29 PM, said:

When did Torres' domestic performance even come into this? Don't make excuses for him, nothing changes the fact that he's been terrible in the World Cup this year. He shouldn't start.

I haven't seen many managers make the big call to drop a big name player, I doubt it'll happen to Torres. You've also gotta consider if whoever comes in can produce the goods.

[Golden Legacy]

Eugine, on Jul 6 2010, 12:40 AM, said:

Sry, I meant to write OLDER.

I remember reading this is the youngest German team in 70 years or so.

BUTTSEX, on Jul 6 2010, 01:48 AM, said:

Although there's no doubt about how dominant their short-passing and midfield coverage are, as they totally deserved the Euro Cup with that style of play, it's not a fluke as to why Spain always disappoints in the World Cup. I can see them giving Germany a challenge, but there's no way they can win on their own merits.

Germany's definitely a vastly improved team then they were in Euro 2008. Ironically I think Ballack being injured helped. He's a good player but not the fastest, and this new German side is built on speed and more flowing play than we've ever seen.

Quote

I agree on a point that you mentioned before, and that's not to start Torres. He's absolute garbage, I'm believing less and less that the injury he sustained has anything to do with his abysmal performance. I think his long hair was his magic. :P Pedro should definitely be the replacement.

Pedro impressed me in the game against Paraguay. I think him and Fernando Llorente should be considered replacements for Torres. Navas isn't bad either, though he's more of a winger.

Laharl, on Jul 6 2010, 03:40 AM, said:

Muller is suspended for fuck all >__>

suspension system at this world cup is ridiculous, yellow cards used to wiped after the group stage

I forgot he's suspended... clearing yellow cards after the group stages was a much better system. Better yet, given how ambiguous yellow cards are given out nowadays, maybe three yellow cards should be given before a player is suspended.

Saturos S., on Jul 6 2010, 06:59 AM, said:

Well with Messi, everyone in the Barcelona team is supplying Messi and moving around him. Argentina as a team just doesn't have anyone moving around him.

The same holds true probably for all the other top stars. Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney, Torres, they're all adapted to the leagues they play in and the style of game their domestic teams provide them.

[gsninja]

TheEnglishman, on Jul 6 2010, 11:24 AM, said:

I haven't seen many managers make the big call to drop a big name player, I doubt it'll happen to Torres. You've also gotta consider if whoever comes in can produce the goods.

I suppose. ): I just think he should be replaced because his subs have performed better so far. The game against Chile, for example...Torres disappoints like he has this entire WC, but the Fernando that replaces him at the 50-something minute gets 2-3 really good shots on goal that Torres didn't even have a chance at creating.

I guess replacing Torres as a starter is too late to consider, though, since it's the semifinals now.

Also, Forlan is amazing and Robben is a top tier diver.

[Golden Legacy]

Looks like we're getting an all European final.

EDIT: Again.

[Eugine]

So Fabregas will be playing tomorrow.
Honestly, I am already anxious. I think someone will need to teach me how to breathe again tomorrow.

I have a feeling Germany will win, but my heart is still with Spain.

And guys, it's all about to end Sunday. The World Cup (plus NBA Finals and E3) made June and early July so timeless.

[gsninja]

Paul the Octopus chose Spain, so it's possible they can win.

Remember, though, of Paul's 10 predictions for the German national team, he's only gotten one of them wrong: Euro '08's final.

Maybe we'll see some revenge? o:

[Eugine]

Yeah lol, I've been reading a lot about this Octopus thing. I really hope he's right lmao.

[Golden Legacy]

Made all the more hilarious by the fact that it's a German octopus. I know what's happening to him after the game!

[gsninja]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 6 2010, 12:26 PM, said:

I remember reading this is the youngest German team in 70 years or so.
Germany's definitely a vastly improved team then they were in Euro 2008. Ironically I think Ballack being injured helped. He's a good player but not the fastest, and this new German side is built on speed and more flowing play than we've ever seen.

It's going to be a great match tomorrow no matter what happens, that's for sure.

Quote

Pedro impressed me in the game against Paraguay. I think him and Fernando Llorente should be considered replacements for Torres. Navas isn't bad either, though he's more of a winger.

Llorente, there we go. Pedro was nuts, though, he was so unlucky with that pole hit.

I don't want Paul to be punished. ;-;

[Golden Legacy]

Pedro basically did everything for the goal, Villa just hit the rebound.

And hey, don't be upset - a little calamari and tartar sauce never hurt anyone!


EDIT: One reason to support the Netherlands.

[Saturos S.]

Well, the Netherlands are through to the final but then again Uruguay did better than I expected. Though the Dutch made it a lot harder on themselves than they should have.

I'm happy the Netherlands made it to the finals but their playing style is quite dull, they're quite static for some reason.

As for Spain - Germany, I'd rather see Spain in the final. I think the Netherlands have a better chance of winning against Spain than Germany, though I think any of the 3 teams has the potential to beat each other. Tough calls.

[Laharl]

BUTTSEX, on Jul 6 2010, 05:29 PM, said:

When did Torres' domestic performance even come into this? Don't make excuses for him, nothing changes the fact that he's been terrible in the World Cup this year. He shouldn't start.

BUTTSEX, on Jul 6 2010 05:48 AM, said:

He's absolute garbage

that's when

[gsninja]

LOL, you actually thought I was saying anything about him not related to this year's World Cup?

EDIT: Speaking of Torres, Pedro's starting instead of him in today's match!

[Golden Legacy]

Really a shame Muller is suspended, but wow is this exciting. Five minutes until kick-off!

[I'm Always BROKE]

Whoever wins, the Netherlands is going to look like a fool cause of our national anthem either way. It's an almost ancient song, letting us literally sing that we are of German blood and always honored the king of Spain.

Germany vs NL would be a nice final match, but I wouldn't mind Spain winning either. Either way, I except 'us' to lose so I don't care much.

[Golden Legacy]

Diddy, you and SS are really underestimating your team... the talent you've got in the likes of Sneijder and Robben is unquestioned. I think you guys definitely have a shot, and you played well against Uruguay (which fought hard as well to their credit).

All the remaining teams are worthy of the trophy, so it's going to be a great final no matter what.

Halftime: Germany 0-0 Spain. Thoughts?

[Eugine]

FUCCCK
Spain is ANNOYING me!!!

[Eugine]

dat octopus is amazin.

[Saturos S.]

YAY for Spain!

I was jumping through the living room again, Spain should have sealed the deal with at least one of those 3 against 2 oppurtunities.

[Golden Legacy]

I can't believe David Villa missed that opportunity when the ball was crossed to him in front of the goal. Still, Spain outplayed Germany. Germany seemed a little flat in their performance today and Spain definitely dominated.

Spain vs. Netherlands for a new world champion!

[gsninja]

Poor Paul is going to be made into calamari tonight. )':

[Golden Legacy]

Damned cephalopod. Hope he tastes good. =(

[Saturos S.]

So the octopus was right again?

Damn he's good.

[edit]

SCHADE DEUTSCHLAND,
Alles ist vorbei,
Alles ist vorbei
Alles ist vorbei

[I'm Always BROKE]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 7 2010, 09:22 PM, said:

Diddy, you and SS are really underestimating your team... the talent you've got in the likes of Sneijder and Robben is unquestioned. I think you guys definitely have a shot, and you played well against Uruguay (which fought hard as well to their credit).

All the remaining teams are worthy of the trophy, so it's going to be a great final no matter what.

Halftime: Germany 0-0 Spain. Thoughts?

Hah you would know. I only half-watched Netherlands vs Brazil and Netherlands vs Uryguay. I do agree though that Sneijder and Robben are good players. We probably wouldn't do good without him. The new keeper Bronckhorst is also a good replacement for van de Sar.

[Saturos S.]

Bronckhorst in the Left back, you mean Stekelenburg.

[edit] lost the rest of my post, starting over.

[Golden Legacy]

Diddy Kong, on Jul 7 2010, 05:18 PM, said:

Hah you would know. I only half-watched Netherlands vs Brazil and Netherlands vs Uryguay. I do agree though that Sneijder and Robben are good players. We probably wouldn't do good without him. The new keeper Bronckhorst is also a good replacement for van de Sar.

Ha, I'll bet you watched the first half of both games. Netherlands was down against Brazil and tied with Uruguay and came back to win both in the 2nd half.

EDIT: LOL.

http://i.imgur.com/IGXsR.jpg

[Caael]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 6 2010, 08:26 PM, said:

I remember reading this is the youngest German team in 70 years or so.

Them Nazi's did start young

[Saturos S.]

The best player on the Dutch squad at the moment is probably Van Bommel, one of the two defensive midfielders. On paper the Dutch side has got quite a bad defense. But because Van Bommel (and De Jong) neutralize most attacks early, the Netherlands seems to have quite a solid defense.

In all the games they've played the Dutch have had more possession than the opponents, keeping the ball in the team is also a great way of relieving pressure of the defense. The problem with Spain is that they too, like to have a lot of ball possession. The Dutch playing with two defensive midfielders will have more trouble moving the ball forward than Spain. Also Spain likes to put pressure on the other team quite quickly, so the Dutch will not only have trouble moving the ball forward, but just keeping the ball in the team will be quite hard as well.

Attacking wise, the only chance the Dutch really have is the quick break. Sneijder has proven many times to be able to deliver that perfect long ball to Robben, Kuyt or Van Persie. Puyol and Pique are great in the air, but much less solid when defending technical players like Robben or Van Persie. Busquets and Alonso tend to take care of those players, but they won't be marking Robben or Van Persie during an offensive. So, ideally, quick break, play around the last of the defenders and score.

That said, Spain even though I expect them to have more possession than the Dutch will have a hard time moving the ball around quickly on the Dutch half, as said earlier, Van Bommel and De Jong are key players in disrupting those lovely passing moves. They can cross into the box by letting the backs come up (Ramos and Capdevilla love doing that) but even if they deliver the cross, they don't really have the heading power. Germany didn't have a lot of trouble getting rid of crosses, except when Puyol and Pique were still up front, and they will only be there during corners. The Dutch have two of those surging backs as well, though Van der Wiel does it a lot more than Van Bronckhorst. They on the other hand do have heading power in the box, Kuyt and Van Persie mainly. (Robben proved in the last match he can score with his head as well.)

... so in short, no idea who's going to win it, it really can go both ways. Though the brokers are giving Spain a bigger chance of winning it.

[edit]

o and:
http://img697.imageshack.us/img697/1051/fdc62dda3b4ee816f75fd87.gif

Uploaded with ImageShack.us

[Laharl]

BUTTSEX, on Jul 7 2010, 04:42 PM, said:

LOL, you actually thought I was saying anything about him not related to this year's World Cup?

EDIT: Speaking of Torres, Pedro's starting instead of him in today's match!

that's generally how you judge players, off they're overall performance, not just one tournament.

Never thought i'd say this but Spanish are fucking boring, 7 goals in 6 games really?

Dutch ftw

[TheEnglishman]

Caael, on Jun 27 2010, 04:09 PM, said:

Pisses me off though how eveyrbody is saying ridiculously biggoted things

Caael, on Jul 7 2010, 10:29 PM, said:

Them Nazi's did start young

Huh.
Anyway should be an interesting final, I can see Holland just edging it.
Little bit of a parody on the 'curse of the Nike ad'.

[Mallick]

Is anyone else still riding the shock of Germany vs. Argentina?


... No? It's just me?

[Golden Legacy]

Good analysis SS.

Laharl, on Jul 8 2010, 03:27 AM, said:

Never thought i'd say this but Spanish are fucking boring, 7 goals in 6 games really?

I don't know if that does justice to how they play. Spain has had many, many missed chances and have dominated their games. Against Switzerland, Honduras, Chile, and Portugal, they were completely sweeping them away, had possession exceeding 60-65%, complete control over midfield and many more shots on goal, even if they were only narrow margins of victory (or defeat against the Swiss, who basically played with an iron wall in front of their goal).

[Caael]

TheEnglishman, on Jul 8 2010, 01:10 PM, said:

Huh.

Germany 70 years ago was Nazi germany, yes?

[Eugine]

Mike Babcock, on Jul 8 2010, 01:19 PM, said:

Is anyone else still riding the shock of Germany vs. Argentina?
... No? It's just me?

I was enjoying it for some reason.

[Legolastom]

Caael, on Jul 8 2010, 06:50 PM, said:

Germany 70 years ago was Nazi germany, yes?

2010 - 10 = 2000.

2000 - 60 = 1940.

1940 = Nazi Germany.

(1940 = Nazi Germany) + ("I remember reading this is the youngest German team in 70 years or so.") = Them Nazi's did start young.

= Yes Tim.

[gsninja]

http://sports.yahoo.com/top/news?slug=ap-g...oracle-worldcup

Oooooooooooh shit...

Think Paul will be just as accurate when not predicting for the German national team?

[TheEnglishman]

You know I was gonna decide based on team form and stats, but I guess I don't need to now.

[ThankMeLater]

"Dutch porn star Bobbi Eden has offered to give all her Twitter followers oral sex if her nation wins this year's World Cup in South Africa.

The Netherlands made it to the last stage of the competition with their 3-2 victory over Uruguay in Tuesday's semi-final.

"Prior to the match, Eden wrote: "If Netherlands wins the worldcup I will give a BJ to all my followers, together with vickyvette, misshybrid, gabbyquinteros 4804 and counting RT. (sic)"

After some quizzed her about the offer, she clarified: "It should say that i will give them a free B**w Job ... It is real! BJ for all followers."

After the Netherlands' semi-final victory, she added: "Only one more game between you and a free BJ !!! Go teambj!!!!

"Details on how to collect your B**w Job will be given on Monday after the worldcup final! Go teamBJ... My body is throbbing with all the excitement about teamBJ!!... I'll be live later today... so you can all tell me how sloppy you like it "

Eden now has over 64,688 Twitter followers, up from 4,804 before she made the offer." http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/7527/cryt.gif

Source

[Golden Legacy]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 6 2010, 09:31 PM, said:

EDIT: One reason to support the Netherlands.

[ThankMeLater]

pfft, like hell i was reading two pages back.

and ontopic; new avy.

[Saturos S.]

BUTTSEX, on Jul 9 2010, 06:26 PM, said:

http://sports.yahoo.com/top/news?slug=ap-g...oracle-worldcup

Oooooooooooh shit...

Think Paul will be just as accurate when not predicting for the German national team?

http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/0...take-world-cup/

But what about the psychic parrot? Even the psychic animals are having a tough time making a choice.

[Laharl]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 8 2010, 06:42 PM, said:

Good analysis SS.
I don't know if that does justice to how they play. Spain has had many, many missed chances and have dominated their games. Against Switzerland, Honduras, Chile, and Portugal, they were completely sweeping them away, had possession exceeding 60-65%, complete control over midfield and many more shots on goal, even if they were only narrow margins of victory (or defeat against the Swiss, who basically played with an iron wall in front of their goal).

to put it simply they're perfectionists, they wont make the killer move if it isnt picture perfect, unfortunately there aren't all that many teams that can punish them for that style of play =/

[Golden Legacy]

Well it's incredibly hard to. In this entire tournament, I don't think a single person has won the ball off Xavi. Spain knows how to keep possession and they literally give their opponents no chance to ever control the pace of the game.

[I'm Always BROKE]

I'm just going to say that the Netherlands got pretty lucky so far. Sure, them beating Brazil was fucking awesome but now they're truely up against the best of the best. Or so they say. Not to say that the Netherlands are bad of coarse. But I seriously think it'll become like 2-2 and then we'll get penalties, in which the Netherlands will lose.

[Eugine]

I hope you're right! Still, I won't really mind a Netherlands victory.

[Golden Legacy]

It's great to see a new winner of the World Cup, no matter who wins.

http://i.imgur.com/sCvGm.jpg

[Moonear]

Golden Legacy, on Jul 10 2010, 04:01 PM, said:

It's great to see a new winner of the World Cup, no matter who wins.

http://i.imgur.com/sCvGm.jpg

It's pretty exciting, and that picture is sick.

[Mallick]

Why don't we retweet Bobbi Evens' offer to all the spanish players. Some of them look like they could use some good head.

[Saturos S.]

FINALS DAY!

At the start of the tournament my football team made a football toto where you had to predict the scores throughout the whole tournament. At the very start of the tournament I put up Spain for world champions (and predicting a bunch of other scores), and basically if Spain win it, I win the toto and thus a cash prize.

As for if the Netherlands win, well it's the Netherlands, so that's national party time.

So it's kind of a win-win situation.

[Golden Legacy]

I see what you did there.

[Lemontime]

WTF is a toto. You Europeans are crazy.

[Saturos S.]

O right, a dutch term.

Toto is basically a small league with friends, where you just predict the scores for matches and get points for getting the right score, goal difference etc.

It's just betting really.

[Lemontime]

Freaky deaky dutch.

[gsninja]

Gonna be rooting for the Spanish. Seems like they keep winning because I'm against them, so I'll try to see if the opposite'll hold true. :P

[Golden Legacy]

I predict it's going to be a narrow victory for whoever wins... tight match. It'll be great no matter who does, as both have proven to be more than worthy. Ahhhh, so excited!

[TheEnglishman]

I need Spain to win 2-1 and Villa to get the first goal, I'll get £14 as a result.

[Golden Legacy]

That was a somewhat flat first half. Few opportunities, lots of fouls and rough play.

[Lemontime]

foot to the chest OH SNAP

[gsninja]

Pretty much as physical as I expected to be, though. Pretty tame first half, but the Spaniard getting kicked in the chest was hilarious (Don't remember who it was lol).