WORLD CUP 2006

[Puck Bond]

Wow what a finish that was!!! Good for Italy...I didn't really want Germany to win anyway...and they deserved to win especially the way they came out in the overtime...

I'm hoping for an Italy-France final now!

[bigred760]

Now that's what you call a Golden Goal (the first one)!!! The first 119 minutes of the game weren't all that spectacular, but damn what a finish. I'm happy for the Italians and here's hoping they beat France/Portugal as well.

Also like to add, that this was one of the best officiated games I've seen in this World Cup. Here's hoping the same guy does Sunday's game.

[lunatic]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
Hahaha I was waiting for that all the way through your post.


Italy to win 2-0

Brilliant prediction!

The German team hater is so happy!

[lunatic]

Originally posted by arto_j
I figured you'd bite at that comment ;)

Yeah, Italy's been good this year. Solid, boring team as usual. But I don't think you've really been tested this year yet. Australia? Ukraine? Italy had a fairly easy path to this stage, and I think that's one reason people aren't talking that much about you. Yet.

Take it back...

[lunatic]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch
Ha, I found something positive about Portugal: their jerseys are really nice. A nice (Ron) Burgundy red.

But still:

1(a) Germany
1(b) France
3 Italy
4 Portugal

I think, NO.

I really like Portugal in the 4th place on this list.

[ToRontoRon]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
Hahaha I was waiting for that all the way through your post.


Italy to win 2-0


Bah! It backfired. lol.


Losing sucks.




FUCKITY, FUCK, FUCK...



That is all.

[jason statham]

I think that the only happy german guy right now is Oliver Kahn.... that Klinsman didnt give him a single chance the poor fella.

[Katsumoto]

http://us.news1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/fifa/gen/fifa/20060704/i/1149856947.jpg
LA DOLCE VITA!!!

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by lunatic
I think, NO.

I really like Portugal in the 4th place on this list.

How nice of you to wait with your comment & "prediction" until AFTER the game. Just brilliant, why didn't I think of that.

Anyway, here's to the German Team for exeeding everybodys expectations and giving us a very exciting 3 1/2 weeks.

and Scorpio: your predictions suck! :-P

[bob]

Originally posted by jason statham
I think that the only happy german guy right now is Oliver Kahn.... that Klinsman didnt give him a single chance the poor fella.

I have no problem with that decision by Klinsman. Lehmann played fantastically the whole tournament...if Germany had made it to and won the final, I think he would have been the MVP easily.

But with both goalies at 36, Germany needs to start grooming a replacement for 2010.

Let's see Zidane, Vieira, and Henry carry France to the Championship!

[Scorpio24]

I agree with Lehman. He's been absolutley brilliant in this World Cup and was again last night.

I have to say i'm gutted for the Germans. I really wanted to see their nation have a party and enjoy themselves. Like Zeems said up above it's nice no fuck it it's great to be able to see Germans proud of thier flag and nation again without feeling any shame or resentment. I agree that, that is the best thing to come out of this World Cup. You got to love sport.

As for the game. Personaly I thought it was the best game of the competition. I did miss Portugal-Holland and France-Brazil though. Both teams full of attacking intent. It was brilliant to watch. It pushed the Mexico Argie game for drama and excitment. The one thing i'm glad of is that every player could come of that pitch knowing they had given everything. Which is at the end of the day what you want from yourself.

I am totaly gutted that it was Grosso that broke the deadlock. The cheating bastard who tumbled over a non moving Aussie tho "earn" a pen against them in the last minute. Looks like it is the year of the cheat. Portugal Italy final? God I hope not.


Trust me to get the only right prediction on that game.
:(

[Zeems McSnatch]

Scorpio, those words coming from a welsh hooligan are a welcome surprise ;-)

Did you hear about what happened in Brazil? Some "fans" burned down a sculpture of Ronaldinho. It is not known why, but there are two possibilities:

a) total dissapointment because of his poor performance during the World Cup
b) the statue was way too ugly to be left standing

speaking of being left standing: wouldn't a final between Italy & Portugal be fun? One could bet on which teams' players fall down and roll around more often...

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch
Scorpio, those words coming from a welsh hooligan are a welcome surprise ;-)

Did you hear about what happened in Brazil? Some "fans" burned down a sculpture of Ronaldinho. It is not known why, but there are two possibilities:

a) total dissapointment because of his poor performance during the World Cup
b) the statue was way too ugly to be left standing

speaking of being left standing: wouldn't a final between Italy & Portugal be fun? One could bet on which teams' players fall down and roll around more often...

Haha.

1 things for damn sure. It would break the world record for longest injury time played in a match. If they really turn it on they could play till the Euro's 2008.

[miguel_montes]

It was an excellent game. I was kinda rooting for Germany because of Klinsmann, but those late two goals were just a killer.

Props go out to the referee too, he did an excellent job. No wonder its his 5th call this world cup.

[charliebobo]

:D :D :D :D :D :D

http://www.panorama.it/media/020001056588.jpg

Oh man what a match! One of the best of the tournament, and a truly deserved win for us. This should shut up people who think we are only good at defending!
We were just brilliant, Germany had a good game too but we were more positive (4 strikers in extra time! How often do you see that?), hit the post, the crossbar, and played better football - Pirlo was amazing.

We're going to Berlin!!!

[jason statham]

Originally posted by miguel_montes

Props go out to the referee too, he did an excellent job. No wonder its his 5th call this world cup.

Too bad he wasnt there for Portugal when they were " assaulted " by the dutch, otherwose justice would`ve seen the light.:D

[miguel_montes]

Originally posted by jason statham
Too bad he wasnt there for Portugal when they were " assaulted " by the dutch, otherwose justice would`ve seen the light.:D

That doesn't make sense, even coming from you.

[Luv_my_Movies]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch
speaking of being left standing: wouldn't a final between Italy & Portugal be fun? One could bet on which teams' players fall down and roll around more often...

figo vs. grosso...who will win?:p

[arto_j]

Italy was amazing last night, especially in overtime. I was rooting for them by the halftime marker, and I didn't think that would be happening. But the finish made me happy. Especially in how it quieted that whole stadium down perfectly. :D

[king_verhoeven]

Wow very impressed by the Italians yesterday!! Pirlo and Cannavaro were great. I couldn't believe Germany has come this far with the quality they have, the Italians had their luck this tournament, 2 times scoring in the last minute. This was totally deserved though, they were much better than Deutschland.

Tonight hopefully the French beat the Portugees and Zidane gets his final!!

But after last night, the Italians are the favourite to win the WC 2006!!

[Scorpio24]

Come on the FRENCH!!!!!


Knock out the dirty cheating Portugese.

[bob]

Bonne chance, bleues....

[bigred760]

Although I'm not a big fan of scoring by PK, I'm glad somebody scored before halftime, therefore we can get a sense of where the game is. And it's fitting that Zidane was the one that scored.

[bigred760]

Wow!! Two acting jobs in one play by Portugal. My favorite part was during the replay and the entire Portuguese bench was calling for a foul. I've counted three acting jobs (though I've been unable to watch the whole game - I'm at work). I'm not counting the guy that made a couple of good movies and then fell - I really think he buckled under his knee; he did leave the game.

[bigred760]

Okay, Ronaldo falling makes it four.

[chiefxcel]

bye bye portugal

[miguel_montes]

Congratulations to France. You scored and we didn't. That's it for us this world cup. Next time, perhaps.

























P.S.: What, did you think I was going to be all pissed for loosing like a lot of people here did...? No, I'm better than that.

[Puck Bond]

Hahahahahaha!!!! Sweet justice has been served by the French!!!

Talk about a team that dives all over the pitch and complains for every call?! My god Portugal...you didn't deserve to play in this semi-final and you got what you deserved...the only player I really have any respect for is Figo...he is at least a leader in my eyes and nice to see him swap jerseys with Zidane at the end.

Looking forward to a great Final between Italy and France...two worthy sides I reckon!

[jason statham]

Originally posted by miguel_montes


P.S.: What, did you think I was going to be all pissed for loosing like a lot of people here did...? No, I'm better than that.

Oh, we know you`re A LOT better than that.

Reasons why this match is great :
- PORTUGAL LOST
- The refree ignored Ronaldo`s " dives "
- The response from the crowd whenever Ronaldo gets the ball, i`m happy to know that other people share the same feelings with me.
- Ronaldo wheeping at the end.

About the French, it pisses me off that whenever France wins a game, everyone raves about Zidane and how great he was ignoring the efforts made by Thuram, Henry, Ribery.... I know Zidane is a legend in most people`s mind, but you dont have to lick his ass whenever possible even when he sucked... JUSTICE PEOPLE

[Scorpio24]

My God!!!!


As there ever been a more disgracefull team to play this game?

What a disgrace to the game. I would be ashamed to be portugese after that. If it wasn't bad enough the antics against England. This was even worse. I'm so glad Zidane done the business.

Portugal had are a very average team and they got to the semi's by unfair play and cheating.

This team is not men they are maggots and the biggest 1 is Scolari the coach. No wonder they are like they are. Did you see the performance by that idiot. Screaming for everything, every dive.

I'm so glad they are out. Now come on france win it for ZZ in the final.

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
This team is not men they are maggots and the biggest 1 is Scolari the coach. No wonder they are like they are. Did you see the performance by that idiot. Screaming for everything, every dive.


Like I said, I was laughing every time they showed the bench during a non-call on a dive; not believing they actually thought they would get that. The Portuguese players were closer to an Academy Award than a yellow card for an Italian. :rolleyes:

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760
Like I said, I was laughing every time they showed the bench during a non-call on a dive; not believing they actually thought they would get that. The Portuguese players were closer to an Academy Award than a yellow card for an Italian. :rolleyes:

It really was a joke.

If FIFFA ever want to get hold of this problem they need to start throwing out bans for this shit.

[miguel_montes]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I would be ashamed to be portugese after that.

No portuguese would even consider that. And I'm not even talking about sports. I'm talking about the feeling of being portuguese. Try catching up with a little of our history, you might get a small idea of that.
And if you're REALLY interested, do a little research about the Treaty Of Windsor, the Ultimatum and the so-called "Pink Map". Interesting stuff...!!

Originally posted by Scorpio24 If it wasn't bad enough the antics against England.

You got that wrong, man. It was the english themselves booing Ronaldo whenever he touched the ball.

[lunatic]

From Yahoo Sports article:

Portugal repeatedly was angry with the calls. Just after Zidane's goal, Portugal wanted a penalty kick with Cristiano Ronaldo went down in the penalty area trying to reach a Luis cross and claimed he was pushed by Willy Sagnol. When there wasn't a call, a water bottle was kicked on the field in front of Portugal's bench.

Portugal's goalkeeper came up to play offense on a corner kick in injury time, leaving an open net. After the final whistle, Figo walked over to the referee, spoke with him, then gave him mock applause. Scolari wagged his finger at the officials as they walked off, and was blocked from getting close to them by a FIFA official.

Six years ago in the European Championship semifinals, Zidane's penalty kick with three minutes left in extra time gave France a 2-1 victory over the Portuguese after Abel Xavier used a hand to block Sylvain Wiltord's shot. Portuguese players charged Austrian referee Guenter Benko, resulting in a six-month suspension for Xavier -- who was watching this one from the stands -- and lengthy bans for two teammates.


Great team work, my dear Portugese friends.
;)

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by miguel_montes
No portuguese would even consider that. And I'm not even talking about sports. I'm talking about the feeling of being portuguese. Try catching up with a little of our history, you might get a small idea of that.
And if you're REALLY interested, do a little research about the Treaty Of Windsor, the Ultimatum and the so-called "Pink Map". Interesting stuff...!!



You got that wrong, man. It was the english themselves booing Ronaldo whenever he touched the ball.


I don't give to shits about Portugese history. It has nothing to do with a bunch of pussies throwing themselves to the floor every oppurtunity.

They are a disgrace. I thank God I live in a country that plays football like men and refuse to drop to the floor every chance they get.

I'd rather never win again than win the way that team does.

And no I didn't get it wrong. I got it just right.

DISGRACE!!!

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by lunatic
From Yahoo Sports article:

Portugal repeatedly was angry with the calls. Just after Zidane's goal, Portugal wanted a penalty kick with Cristiano Ronaldo went down in the penalty area trying to reach a Luis cross and claimed he was pushed by Willy Sagnol. When there wasn't a call, a water bottle was kicked on the field in front of Portugal's bench.

Portugal's goalkeeper came up to play offense on a corner kick in injury time, leaving an open net. After the final whistle, Figo walked over to the referee, spoke with him, then gave him mock applause. Scolari wagged his finger at the officials as they walked off, and was blocked from getting close to them by a FIFA official.

Six years ago in the European Championship semifinals, Zidane's penalty kick with three minutes left in extra time gave France a 2-1 victory over the Portuguese after Abel Xavier used a hand to block Sylvain Wiltord's shot. Portuguese players charged Austrian referee Guenter Benko, resulting in a six-month suspension for Xavier -- who was watching this one from the stands -- and lengthy bans for two teammates.


Great team work, my dear Portugese friends.
;)


Yeah you say all that but they had a tough past. The only country in the whole world to have a rocky past i believe so we should be proud of them.:rolleyes:

[bigred760]

Originally posted by lunatic
From Yahoo Sports article:

Portugal repeatedly was angry with the calls. Just after Zidane's goal, Portugal wanted a penalty kick with Cristiano Ronaldo went down in the penalty area trying to reach a Luis cross and claimed he was pushed by Willy Sagnol. When there wasn't a call, a water bottle was kicked on the field in front of Portugal's bench.

Portugal's goalkeeper came up to play offense on a corner kick in injury time, leaving an open net. After the final whistle, Figo walked over to the referee, spoke with him, then gave him mock applause. Scolari wagged his finger at the officials as they walked off, and was blocked from getting close to them by a FIFA official.

Six years ago in the European Championship semifinals, Zidane's penalty kick with three minutes left in extra time gave France a 2-1 victory over the Portuguese after Abel Xavier used a hand to block Sylvain Wiltord's shot. Portuguese players charged Austrian referee Guenter Benko, resulting in a six-month suspension for Xavier -- who was watching this one from the stands -- and lengthy bans for two teammates.

;)

That's just pathetic; not only do they flop shamelessly, but then they can't even take a loss professionally.

I think the referee did a great job with the calls; calling both sides fairly and not falling (no pun intended) for any of the flops by either team (though I think we know which did it blantantly more).

I noticed that the ref was Uruguayan; anybody know if it's the same guy who did the U.S./Italy game where half the players were ejected?

[Scorpio24]

Not sure about the ref thing. But i'm pretty sure these last 2 refs were told to take it easy in these semi's so none of the players miss the final because they have been so much more leniant.

[miguel_montes]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I don't give to shits about Portugese history.

But of course you don't. Shame on me for trying to get an englishman (?) interested in portuguese history if they don't even know theirs (Treaty of Windsor, the Ultimatum and the Pink Map is all part of England's history)

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I'd rather never win again than win the way that team does.

I agree. I wish you never win again also.

But hey, this is getting really off-topic...

So, Italy or France? I won't be rooting for any team in particular. May the best one win.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by miguel_montes
But of course you don't. Shame on me for trying to get an englishman (?) interested in portuguese history if they don't even know theirs (Treaty of Windsor, the Ultimatum and the Pink Map is all part of England's history)



I agree. I wish you never win again also.

But hey, this is getting really off-topic...

So, Italy or France? I won't be rooting for any team in particular. May the best one win.


Ok once again then - WELSH

Your argument about your contries history means nothing about tonight's match. Nothing. This is the sports thread. Go and start a thread about Portugese history in the politics thread we will discuss it there.

Every country got history chief and it's got nothing to do with the sports team being cheats.

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by miguel_montes
But of course you don't. Shame on me for trying to get an englishman (?) interested in portuguese history if they don't even know theirs (Treaty of Windsor, the Ultimatum and the Pink Map is all part of England's history)



I agree. I wish you never win again also.

But hey, this is getting really off-topic...

So, Italy or France? I won't be rooting for any team in particular. May the best one win.

Dude, he's welsh. The only history they have is with bowmen & sheep. I'm kidding of course.

When we start taking history into account, I don't think any country in Europe can say "hey, I've got a clean sheet". But since this is not the politics forum, let's not go there.

Anyway, I'll say ALLEZ LES VIEUX!!!! Raise that trophy and retire in style, Zizou!!!

[chasingbanky]

It feels like Ronaldo and his team of merry men haven't scored since the first round. Anyway I'm glad half of my semi pick was right, and barring that crap suspension, possibly both. Anyway Zidane is a wrecking ball that cannot be stopped. Italy has the most explosive goalie in the cup, so the next game should be full of beautiful saves on one end, and strange luck on the other. France 06 champs.

EDIT: Anyone else proud of Rooney's love of his country, and hatred for Ronaldo? Both these kids are going to have interesting careers.

[jason statham]

Come on guys, take it easy on the guy...... his team just lost, you cant blame him.

[TheMazVolta]

Now that Daniele De Rossi is back from suspension, will Lippi start him? I love that France made it, and cannot think of a better final...two epic battles from WC 98, and EC 00 with both times France coming out victorious...this time will be different

[Luv_my_Movies]

Originally posted by bigred760

I noticed that the ref was Uruguayan; anybody know if it's the same guy who did the U.S./Italy game where half the players were ejected?

it was, they said it on the telecast before ther match started.

[Digifruitella]

Originally posted by bob
Italy beating up on the Ukraine right now, as expected...the Ukraine had an easy group and an easy matchup with Suisse, now they're being taught how real soccer is played...



soccer, horrible word..it's FOOTball.

it has been a while of course since that night..but I'm just looking through the forums and i'd like to add my thoughts to that match.

ukraine came out with a weak team. Blohin (coach) should've known that Italy was going to be a tough team, therefore he should have had Voronin, and Rebrov out in the first 45 minutes. The team should've done what Italy has done, score early and then defend.. Ukraine played weakly, plus Blohin made a mistake with substitutions as well, instead of using Rebrov as a sub (which is what most of us Ukrainians thought is going to be done later in the game) he never even let him play. Poor coach decision-making, and a poor game by the team.

another thing I want to add..someone mentioned earlier that Ukraine is "Shevchenko and 10 'other' players" = false. You are not seeing other great players such as Voronin, Rebrov, Kalinichenko, Gusin, Gusev.

Plus, Ukraine went home not as losers, but as heroes. Nobody fretted their loss, because for the first time in history Ukraine made it to the World Cup and they got into 1/4th..not many first timer's have done that in their time.

Now hopefully some people know that there is such a country called 'Ukraine' and that we made history by getting that far.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by Digifruitella

another thing I want to add..someone mentioned earlier that Ukraine is "Shevchenko and 10 'other' players" = false. You are not seeing other great players such as Voronin, Rebrov, Kalinichenko, Gusin, Gusev.


I'm not going to take away from you the achievement of the Ukraine. They are a decent team and I wouldn't have minded seeing them get further. But..........


The word great is banded about much, much to often these days.

Shevchenko is a GREAT player. Fantastic. But the other players you have mentioned are not great. Nowhere near. Rebrov has flattered to decieve everywhere he plays apart from when he is with his country. You have decent players that are hardworking but you need the brilliance of Schevchenko to have any impact.

Hence the comment Schevchenko and 10 other players.

I 100% agree.

[miguel_montes]

More spifs of english fans who don't know how to loose. I guess it's their second nature... Just look what they wrote in Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal_national_football_team

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/108/justdontknowhowtoloose2nl.gif

And if you read the article, you'll find more. Just sick...

[bigred760]

That's hilarious.

[bob]

Cheat or no cheat, you guys have gotta admit...Cristiano Ronaldo played a hell of a game yesterday...seriously, he was Portugal's entire offense, and he was running all over the field.

And why is it that the French coach put in THREE offensive subs yesterday and not one of them was Trezeguet? Trezeguet has averaged a goal every two caps....

[Scorpio24]

Man so not only are you racist you're blind/hypocritical to?

Whoa tough break.

Who was it going wild in 2000 walking off the pitch?

And who was it that was complaining that theeir dives wern't being rewarded las night?





Oh thats right.

[bob]

Is that directed at my post? If so, please explain...

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bob
Is that directed at my post? If so, please explain...


No it's directed at Miguels post. just above. Sorry I should have quoted him but it seems i've had to put up with his nonesense for the last week so I haven't really been chatting with any one else.

[miguel_montes]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
No it's directed at Miguels post. just above. Sorry I should have quoted him but it seems i've had to put up with his nonesense for the last week so I haven't really been chatting with any one else.

I'm sorry, I fail to see the connection between what you said above and my previous post.

How does posting an image of a vandalised wikipedia article makes me a racist and hypocrit? If anything, it's me who should be calling names to the guy(s) who trashed the webpage. :rolleyes:

And have you seen me complaining me about Portugal-France? Really, quote me where I said that.

[bigred760]

Alright, enough of all this - let's talk real soccer (football, whatever - I'm American). We've got a game in less than 24 hours and it should be a good one.

I'm going with Germany in the 3rd place game - just because of the home field advantage. But they have to play better than they have in the last few games.

[miguel_montes]

I went on a little YouTube fieldtrip, set on pursuing the objective of proving that the portuguese are the only players that dive... Chucks... I've never been more wrong in my life:

Diving collection:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y83Wh5SHRZM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wNm0K2N_eQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrvRGTVkv6Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-JPActDAsM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjnSvkPmtdc (is that Henry..?? NO WAY!!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAoe1MheTU4 (Rooney himself... please GOD, NO!!! It can't be true!!)

[bob]

Originally posted by bigred760


I'm going with Germany in the 3rd place game - just because of the home field advantage. But they have to play better than they have in the last few games.

Yeah, I'm a bit torn with Germany's decision to start Oliver Kahn in this game. He is a national hero, but Jens Lehmann had a fantastic World Cup, and seeing as he's only one year younger than Kahn, it's unlikely he'll play in 2010. I'd have liked to see them stick with Lehmann.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by miguel_montes
I'm sorry, I fail to see the connection between what you said above and my previous post.

How does posting an image of a vandalised wikipedia article makes me a racist and hypocrit? If anything, it's me who should be calling names to the guy(s) who trashed the webpage. :rolleyes:

And have you seen me complaining me about Portugal-France? Really, quote me where I said that.


Christ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The connection. - You've done nothing but call the English bad losers. Um oh wait you've also called them all holligans. Keep forgetting about that.:rolleyes: The connection is that Portugal are TERRIBLE losers. TERRIBLE. Walked off the pitch in 2000 and complained like a big bunch of bitches when their DIVES weren't blown for in Wednesday's game. English bad losers, Um no. Portugal um yes. England have gone out time and again on pens and at semi's and quater's and they never complain. This time.....? Do I need to say anymore. DISGRACE to world football. So hypocriticalness is obvious. The racism even more so.

I'm fed up talking to you because you're racist and hypocrtical. Bang the drum about what you want. I'll continue with people I can have an honest coversation with i'm done with you.

Please please Germany to win tomorrow and hoepfully France for ZZ Sunday.

[TheMazVolta]

Originally posted by bigred760
Alright, enough of all this - let's talk real soccer


Well said...I thought the eye-poking and hair pulling was about to happen

[miguel_montes]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
Christ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The connection. - You've done nothing but call the English bad losers. Um oh wait you've also called them all holligans. Keep forgetting about that.:rolleyes: The connection is that Portugal are TERRIBLE losers. TERRIBLE. Walked off the pitch in 2000 and complained like a big bunch of bitches when their DIVES weren't blown for in Wednesday's game. English bad losers, Um no. Portugal um yes. England have gone out time and again on pens and at semi's and quater's and they never complain. This time.....? Do I need to say anymore. DISGRACE to world football. So hypocriticalness is obvious. The racism even more so.

I'm fed up talking to you because you're racist and hypocrtical. Bang the drum about what you want. I'll continue with people I can have an honest coversation with i'm done with you.

Please please Germany to win tomorrow and hoepfully France for ZZ Sunday.

But that's because they ARE bad loosers!! Do you want me to lie just to please everybody...??
If they weren't, this conversation would be so over like almost a week ago. But alas, here we are... again. And when they conjure up conspiracy theories like the Rooney incident, accusing the portuguese team of being divers (of which I don't disagree, it's that you make it believe like we are the only ones(!!!)...)... or, deliberately go to a match in which their team is not playing just to boo a player because they have a "grudge" (pfffff...) on him... well, it's absurd how the manufacture of excuses to loosing is... well... perhaps even worse than that "diving".

Yes, the team was a terrible looser in 2000. BUT WE SURE AS HELL AREN'T IN THIS WORLD CUP. That prize belongs entirely to the english fans. Because, if were we REALLY BAD LOOSERS... we would rally up in the final and boo Henry whenever he touched the ball... but that's another story...

And on a side note... this trashing of Portugal really makes me feel like we were "dangerous" to "other's businesses" (you know, such a "small" country, "hurting" the "big ones"). "Portugal is better liked if they lose", wrote an english newpaper. I bet they feel that way.

And to end this... I'm no racist, you don't know me in the least to be saying those things (no, reading sentences in an online forum doesn't cut it). Hypocrit? Please... if I'm guilty on that, than so are you.

There may no longer be hooliganism in England like you said (yeah, right), but England sure has history, and plenty of it (kinda like the portuguese "diving" team now to England, I guess).

At least we agree on something, Scorpio. I'm also fed up with this conversation. I hope we never get to talk about this again. It's not been a pleasure.

[Luv_my_Movies]

So what are peoples picks for the best player and best goal for the World Cup?

my tips:

best player
Fabio Cannavaro
Zinedine Zidane

best goal
Joe Cole - beauitful lob from outside the box (ENG v SWE)
CAMBIASSO Esteban - the perfect team goal (ARG v SCG)

[jason statham]

Best Player - Buffon
Best Goal - M.Rodiguez against Mexico and the Joe Cole goal.

[bob]

Best Player: Zinedine Zidane

Best Goal: Maxi Rodriguez vs. Mexico

And a new category, if I may...

Did he even play this World Cup?: Ronaldinho

[Zeems McSnatch]

Best player - Zidane (now finish off your career with a good showing on sunday)

Best goal - Torsten Frings vs. Costa Rica

did he even play? - Ronaldinho & Frank Lampard

[charliebobo]

Best player: Fabio Cannavaro (Zidane only played 1 good match and 1 great one)

Best goal: Maxi Rodriguez

Did he even play: Frank Lampard

[Katsumoto]

Best Player: Fabio Cannavaro

Best Goal: Maxi Rodriguez

Was He Even There? Frank Lampard

[TheMazVolta]

Best Player: Cannavaro or Buffon

Best Goal: Pirlo to Grosso...(ITA v GER)

Was he even there: Ruud van Nistleroy

[bob]

This game has been fantastic. I love the fact that Germany's gonna win, but Figo, playing in possibly his last World Cup game, just got an assist on a beautiful goal to make it 3-1...

But geez...it turns out all England needed to win against Portugal was Bastian Schweinsteiger....

[Zeems McSnatch]

DANKE JUNGS!!! Great last game for Germany, although it was "only" the small final.

Now I will pratice my french accent, buy a baguette, a basque hat and will paint on a silly mustache to support Les Vieux tomorrow.

[Luv_my_Movies]

Was he even there: Ruud van Nistleroy

[bob]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch


Now I will pratice my french accent, buy a baguette, a basque hat and will paint on a silly mustache to support Les Vieux tomorrow.

Ils ont la jeunesse du coeur...

[Puck Bond]

Watched the 3rd place game last night...great to see Germany get 3rd place as the host...Schweinsteiger took over in the 2nd half...two great strikes!! and struck the one that led to the own goal...

Best player-Cannavaro
Best Goal-Joe Cole
Were you even there?-Ronaldinho

Man you guys are brutal on Lampard...he showed up, he just didn't finish well and had a very bad shooting tournament...you want somebody who didn't show up?! How about the entire USA team!

[Puck Bond]

Zidane blew it! What a disgrace to go out like that...and effectively cost your team the World Cup...I don't have any sympathy for him and France after that head-butt!

Congratulations to Italy on winning the World Cup!

England in 2010!

[TheMazVolta]

Forza Italia...Forza Azzurri...I hate that it ended in penalties, and that Zidane was sent off....I love that they won tho

[dman476]

Originally posted by Puck Bond
Zidane blew it! What a disgrace to go out like that...and effectively cost your team the World Cup...I don't have any sympathy for him and France after that head-butt!

Congratulations to Italy on winning the World Cup!

England in 2010!
Well, I was rooting for American and England (either winning would be cool) all the way.
France deserved to win really.
They played really good, but that jerk Zidane really fucked his team over like thagt. With him during penalty, they probably would have won without a doubt.
But there you go, he had to go out flamboyantly by head-butting some poor Italian. I was seriously in a state of shock when Italy won, but oh well.

And I do have sympathy for France - it's not their fault that idiot had to act out. He's really talented, but alas, couldn't control himself...for another hour. :mad:
I felt sorry for France.

[Katsumoto]

ITALIA!!!!!!!

Now if you could excuse, i'm going to dance on the streets of Little Italy!!!!

What a day!

http://espn-att.starwave.com/photo/2006/0709/soc_g_grosso_412.jpg

[jason statham]

YEAH BABY ! LA DOLCE VITA !

Italy deserved the trophy, and that Zidane is a fucking disgrace to the french.
I was on italy`s side simply because i like italian movies and the italian people are cool.

[Tayzlor]

Great news!!

Here's hoping Zidane's stupidity doesn't overshadow this great victory by this great nation.

[Zeems McSnatch]

Cheers to Italy (although that should have been Germany on that podium)!

I couldn't even show the victors the proper respect because some shitfaced douche "WOOOOOOOO!"ed in my face after the game ended. "Told you italy was better, told you, told you, told you!" Bad winners are almost as annoying as bad losers...

Brilliant display by Canavarro, he'll surely get the Golden Ball now.

Why, Zizou, why? He showed us the light (that ballsy penalty in the 7th minute) and the dark (stupidest headbutt in history). What a crap way to end a great career.

[daddiefatsacks]

the fuck is with the headbutts? what a stupid way to end your career

[Tayzlor]

http://www.geocities.com/grapydusk/863032a3425b39b374a752f430438603.gif

I certainly wouldn't want to be on the end of that hard dome. If anyone, an Italian, with their flowing locks to soften it all.

[Katsumoto]

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060709/capt.wcber39007092150.wcup_world_cup_soccer_italy_ france_final_wcber390.jpg 'This might be the best picture your going to see all year!!

Cheers Italy!! You deserve it, you've made us all proud!

[Luv_my_Movies]

two questions:

what in gods name was Zidane thinking? i was thinking to myself 'what a fucking idiot' about 20 min left in the game and this is what he does? unfortunantly that will be what alot of people will remember him for

and

why did the french coach take thierry henry out when there is a very strong chance of a penality shootout?

[lunatic]

O.K. My two cents.

Italy did deserve first place because they stopped the German jerks. But in the final game they were awful. Except the goalkeeper. They practically did not have any moments for at least 60 min. Even when Zidane was gone France was attacking.

And second of all: I want to know what that scoundrel said. I am hot-blooded too. Game - shmame, but if someone called me names or said that my mom is a gang-banged whore I would lynch him too. Nobody pays attention on that part of the accident.

So France won 8 years ago and played better soccer today. Italy won last time 24 years ago and played below everybody's expectations. In sports like in life there is no justice.

Congratulations, my Italian friends. Let's celebrate. I am going to watch a movie with very nude Monica Bellucci!

[X-Nightcrawler]

Congrats Italy, I'm glad they won. Zidane is a complete idiot (way to end your career).

That's basically it.

[ChemicalRomance]

Great .gif Tayzlor!

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by lunatic
O.K. My two cents.

Italy did deserve first place because they stopped the German jerks. But in the final game they were awful. Except the goalkeeper. They practically did not have any moments for at least 60 min. Even when Zidane was gone France was attacking.

And second of all: I want to know what that scoundrel said. I am hot-blooded too. Game - shmame, but if someone called me names or said that my mom is a gang-banged whore I would lynch him too. Nobody pays attention on that part of the accident.



Firstly: what exactly is your problem with the german team? I don't want to start a Miguel vs. rest of thread style thing, but I am curious.

Secondly: you're in the World Cup final, you're the captain & the most important player of your team, you're playing the final & maybe defining game of your career, you're heading for a penalty shoot-out. And then you react to someone saying "yo mamma!" No, I'm sorry, there is no reasoning this.

[TheMazVolta]

Originally posted by lunatic
O.K. My two cents.

Italy did deserve first place because they stopped the German jerks. But in the final game they were awful. Except the goalkeeper. They practically did not have any moments for at least 60 min. Even when Zidane was gone France was attacking.

And second of all: I want to know what that scoundrel said. I am hot-blooded too. Game - shmame, but if someone called me names or said that my mom is a gang-banged whore I would lynch him too. Nobody pays attention on that part of the accident.



In response to your first part, Italy did what they had to do to keep France from scoring. In football, that is as important as scoring a goal.

And for your second part...are you serious? In the biggest game in the world, on your last EVER game, you are going to headbutt some guy full on for whatever they said? What about your teammates, country, fans?

I love ZZ, and will remember him for alot more than one moment of stupidity. He has been a professional footballer for fifteen years...I think by now he would have heard everything under the sun.

[Scorpio24]

Lets get this out of the way 1st.

Best player - Was going to give it to Zidane but I think maybe Cannaravo maybe.

Did he even play - Take your pick between Lampard, Ronaldhinio, Adriano and Van Nistleroy.

Best goal - Cammbiaso's by a million miles.



Right the final.

I have to say first of all it was a fantastic game. Italy were by far the most dangerous looking team in the first half. That penalty from Zidane was the stroke of a genius. Although it so very nearly didn't work out.

2nd half and all of extra time I though there was going to be only one winner. France. They played supurbly and that's taking nothing away from Italy who also looked dangerous in bursts and defended majesticly. I will say though France had a nailed on 2nd pen in the second half. Lucky to get away with it.

Extra Time was brilliant. And I thought Zidane had it won it with that header.

As for the head butt. I just couldn't believe it. I was in total shock. It was a shame because the man did not deserve to go out like that. Personaly I think it happened because of his missed header in extra time. All the pressure has been on him he's the captain and everybody that wasn't an Italian fan wanted to see him go out with the cup. When Buffon saved that header he let out a pained scream that he hadn't scored. I think as the game went on it just got to much for him and the emotions just blew up.

People have been slagging him off because of it. I think people are forgetting how much it meant to the man and the expectataion on his shoulders. So he made a mistake. You are never going to have to experience that kind of pressure so cut him a break. The man as done more for World Football than anyone else in history with the exception of maybe Pele. I was in shock but I was gutted for him and he'll still have all the admiration in the world from me.

Now I don't know if this was true but they were saying on English tv that the 4th official is the one that seen the headbutt and infornmed the linesman. If this is true FIFA officials have just broken their own rules. 4th officials are not alowed to get involved during a match. The English commentaters were furious over it. Not sure if that's correct though.

Also i'm not buying this crap that Zidane cost France the victory. Rubbish. With 11 men they were bombing forward trying to get that goal and couldn't. When Zidane went they were still bombing on and couldn't score.

I've heard people say there was 20 mins left. 30 mins left. Somebody even said an hour. There was 9 minutes left after that incident. He didn't cost France the game he just let himself down.

The penalties were all brilliant. Even Trezeguet's effort was good. An inch or 2 lower and that's in off the bar.


I'll say it again though fantastic game for a neutral to watch.

I feel France derserved to win because they tried to win it before penalties while the Italians seemed happy to hang on. Italy are worthy champions though. They played some fantastic football through this tournament and in Cannaravo they have the most outstanding player. also props to Pirlo for the way he as stepped up as world class talent in this tournament.

I will say I was gutted that it was Grosso who scored the winning penalty though as he was the man who dived to win a penalty in the last minute against Asutralia.


Gutted it's over but I really enjoyed his years event. Must say the Germans did a fantastic job off hosting this cup.

[Scorpio24]

My Team of the Tournament.

Lehman - Germany
Thuram - France
Cannaravo - Italy
Metzelder - Germany
Lamm - Germany
Requilme - Argentina
Guttaso - Italy
Pirlo - Italy
Zidane - France
Klose - Germany
Henry - France (debateable but i'm struggiling to think of anyone else)


Worst game - Ukraine v's Switzerland
Best game - Argentina v's Mexico

Best moment - Watching Cannaravo standing cool as ice when his team were slotting in the penalties
Worst moment - Everytime the Portugese players hit the floor through diving.


What this World Cup will be remembered for. - Bad refereeing, cheating, Ronaldo's record breaking, some breath taking goals and a moment of total madness from a genius.


Oh and just heard on the radio Zidane won the best player award.

[Scorpio24]

There was an iconic moment last night when Zidane after being sent off walked off the pitch and past the trophy. He walked down the stairs and dissapeared out of view with thw World Cup right behind him. It's a shot that is going to be played over and over again.

Does anyone have a picture or gif of it because I've been looking all morning and I can't find any.

[Luv_my_Movies]

Best game would have to be Australia v Japan for me. I may be a little bit bias but to come back from 1 - 0 down and to score not 1, not 2, but 3 goals in the last 8 minutes was just amazing. I had never been that proud to the socceroos in my life. There was such euphoria in the country the next day, every where you went. ill never forget it.

[Luv_my_Movies]

Originally posted by Scorpio24

Does anyone have a picture or gif of it because I've been looking all morning and I can't find any.

These were the best i could find:
http://editor.sbs.com.au/media/259111.jpg http://editor.sbs.com.au/media/490112.jpg

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by Luv_my_Movies
These were the best i could find:
http://editor.sbs.com.au/media/259111.jpg http://editor.sbs.com.au/media/490112.jpg


Thanks man. It was basiclay that last picture but from an angle where the World Cup was directly behind him as he dissapeared down the tunnel. It was a brilliant shot. Thanks for looking though.


One other thing. Talking of the Aussies. The best and most exciting atmosphere at a match had to be the Australia Croatia match. The atmosphere in that match was off the hook.

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
There was an iconic moment last night when Zidane after being sent off walked off the pitch and past the trophy. He walked down the stairs and dissapeared out of view with thw World Cup right behind him. It's a shot that is going to be played over and over again.

Does anyone have a picture or gif of it because I've been looking all morning and I can't find any.

yeesh, that was a sad but great moment. Sometimes reality has better cinematography than many movies.

that moment had me thinking: is there another player out there that rivals Zizous sheer elegance? He made it all look so easy, and never seemed to do a trick just for show, it all seemed to have a point.

[ElderPredator]

http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/9516/zidane29b1ik.gif (http://imageshack.us)

[lunatic]

Originally posted by TheMazVolta
In response to your first part, Italy did what they had to do to keep France from scoring. In football, that is as important as scoring a goal.

And for your second part...are you serious? In the biggest game in the world, on your last EVER game, you are going to headbutt some guy full on for whatever they said? What about your teammates, country, fans?

I love ZZ, and will remember him for alot more than one moment of stupidity. He has been a professional footballer for fifteen years...I think by now he would have heard everything under the sun.

We live in a real world where human emotions sometimes aren't commonsensical or logical or respectful. I still want to know what the putz told him. Provoking is as bad (maybe worse) as stupid over the top reactions: provoking people trying to stay in the shadow not to be blamed or punished for what they did.

And again, Italy deserved to win overall but not based on the last game they played.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by lunatic
We live in a real world where human emotions sometimes aren't commonsensical or logical or respectful. I still want to know what the putz told him. Provoking is as bad (maybe worse) as stupid over the top reactions: provoking people trying to stay in the shadow not to be blamed or punished for what they did.

And again, Italy deserved to win overall but not based on the last game they played.


It's been reported he called him a dirty terrorist within the last half hour.

His response was I don't even know what that word means.:confused: Now i'm not saying he said it but what the hell kind of answer is that.

[Zeems McSnatch]

Koppinho told me that Materazzi called Zidanes sister a whore. Twice.

Now I would have laughed that off, but only because I don't have a sister. But if this turns out to be true, Materazzi goes straight to the top of my "most loathed" list. Right next to Beeyotch dos Santos

[TheMazVolta]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch
Koppinho told me that Materazzi called Zidanes sister a whore. Twice.

Now I would have laughed that off, but only because I don't have a sister. But if this turns out to be true, Materazzi goes straight to the top of my "most loathed" list. Right next to Beeyotch dos Santos

They are just words, and if you let that stuff get to you, then the one trash talking has done his job. It happens SO much in all pro sports. I played high school and University football (American version) and the things that are said on the line between opponents would make Denis Leary cringe. Its something that someone deals with as part of the game.

[ToRontoRon]

Originally posted by ElderPredator
http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/9516/zidane29b1ik.gif (http://imageshack.us)

ROFLMFAO!!!

That is classic.


Haven't posted in this thread in a while, but congrats to TheMazVolta, Katsumoto, and all other Italian supporters. I believe that the team most deserving of the trophy was team Italy.

Funny that Germany wins in Italy in 1990, and Italy wins in Germany in 2006... Trade ya.

All in all, it was a great tournament, and I guess it's just good that Germany did very well at home, even if they didn't win. I'll tell you this, though, that goal in the 119th minute or whenever it was still feels like a serious kick in the nuts, even almost a week later. :o :D


Congrats Italy.

[bob]

I thought it was a phenomenal tournament...the final match, although suitably bizarre, was quite fitting I think.

Zidane has always been a short-tempered player, and after flashing his genius in all parts of the field during the game, he lost it. The headbutt was pretty bad, but I don't see it as a disgusting, brutal act. Maybe it's because I love Zidane so much, but it seems almost appropriate for him to end his career with one of the best penalty kicks I've ever seen, a red card for an unparalleled act of violence, and the tournament MVP award.

You will be missed, Zidane. The new wave of midfielders will have to work HARD to be as memorable.

Props to both the French and Italian teams. France had a terrifict tournament once the elimination round started...they're one error was the refusal to play Trezeguet. Many people will say "well yeah, he missed the fucking pk", but I honestly believe the only reason he missed is because his confidence was so low after playing almost humiliatingly little this tournament.

And as for the Italians...what can you say? Their team defense was unrivaled, and their laid-back, usually joyous attitude was one of the best parts of watching them play. Congrats...

[charliebobo]

So happy we won! We were far from our best in the final but winning is all that matters.

Zidane was disgraceful. I don't care what Materazzi said, he might have told him he raped his mother last night, I don't care... no way I would let it get to me, 10 minutes before the end of a World Cup final, on my last game.
Besides, players say that kinda stuff to each other all the time.

And now my team of the tournament:

Buffon
----------
Zambrotta
Cannavaro
Materazzi
Grosso
(Lahm, Thuram, Ayala... give me a break. Zambrotta and Cannavaro were the best in their roles, Grosso was decisive in 2 matches and always played well, and Materazzi scored twice and was excellent yesterday and against Germany)
----------
Maxi Rodriguez
Pirlo
Gattuso
Ribery
---------
Klose
Henry

[ChemicalRomance]

Even better:

http://www4.ncsu.edu/~jtkane/zidanesf9ee.gif

[dman476]

Originally posted by ChemicalRomance
Even better:

http://www4.ncsu.edu/~jtkane/zidanesf9ee.gif
Hehe, ROFL.
That's great.
And despite my proclamation that France was better, fuck dat.
I'm glad Italy won, and it's going to make it all the better for me when I go there this year.

Italy, congrats. Guess I hadn't said that, and of course, I have to add that the kicks were awesome.

Cheers ;)

[jason statham]

Originally posted by ChemicalRomance
Even better:

http://www4.ncsu.edu/~jtkane/zidanesf9ee.gif

Whoever did that deserves an Oscar:D

If he kicked him in the nuts, it would`ve been ever better.

[Scorpio24]

I love the way people are so intuitive they could say with a matter of fact that with all the pressure in the world on you shoulders and trying to win a World Cup in your very last football match they would not have done anything stupid. Incredible. That's quite a gift.


Anyway fuck that Zidane's the man and always will be.

According to the media. After employing a lip reading expert Matteratzi has supposedly said:

"You're the son of a terrorist whore"

Surely the people here are intelligent enough to know that an insult like this is alot more insulting to a man like Zidnae than do a typical European. Please tell me you can see that? Also he called him a fecha which is an Italian racist slur apparently.


As for people's teams of the tournament.
charliebob

Why should people give you a break? Because they didn't put the entire Italian defence in their team. Give me a break?

Cannaravo and Zambrotta were supurb. Grosso was decent and scored a decisve goal. Mattaratzi was poor all tournament apart from semi and Final. He also got sent off.

Ayala was supurb. Thuram was incredible shutting out free scoring Portugal, Spain and Brazil.

And Lamm was the best left back in the world cup highlighted by the fact everyone and their dog is trying to sign him.

It's all about opinions. So because poeple son't sgree with you're clearley unbiased selection :rolleyes: no need to have a cry.

[charliebobo]

Whoa whoa, calm down man. I only said "give me a break" because I knew someone would disagree but I wasn't gonna hear it :)

As for Lahm being the best left-back, he got absolutely destroyed by Iaquinta in extra time of the semis. He had a brilliant tournament, but Grosso's was much more influential on the team.

Materazzi was man of the match against the Czechs; he was as good as Cannavaro against the Aussies before being unfairly sent off. In the last two games you said he was brilliant yourself.

A back line that only concedes 2 goals - 1 own goal and 1 highly dubious penalty - is pretty damn good if you ask me.

And as for Zidane... do you honestly think any Muslim player isn't regularly called a terrorist? Do you think people's mothers/sisters/wives are not called whores EVERY SINGLE GAME?
Especially the good players. Especially if they're being insulted by someone who is notoriously an idiot. They should really know better than to treat him seriously.
Part of being a champion is not doing anything, just shutting the hell up and getting back at him by winning the match.

[Zeems McSnatch]

I bloody well hate it when politicians get involved:

Italian rightwing politician Roberto Calderoli was quoted today insulting the Equipe Tricolore by saying "by playing Negros, Muslims & Communists they lost their own indentiy for the sake of winning."

The Azzurri on the other hand played "with a team true to the italian identiy"

Dumb racist son of a bitch!

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I love the way people are so intuitive they could say with a matter of fact that with all the pressure in the world on you shoulders and trying to win a World Cup in your very last football match they would not have done anything stupid. Incredible. That's quite a gift.



Why of course, I am a perfect human being without any flaws. I have my emotions under control at all times and I never react in anger, always thinking before reacting. that is why I have won 3 Nobel Peace Prizes.

But after taking all the information into account, I do say that I understand Zidane more and more. Everybody snaps sometimes, it just happened in the worst possible moment.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by charliebobo
Whoa whoa, calm down man. I only said "give me a break" because I knew someone would disagree but I wasn't gonna hear it :)

As for Lahm being the best left-back, he got absolutely destroyed by Iaquinta in extra time of the semis. He had a brilliant tournament, but Grosso's was much more influential on the team.

Materazzi was man of the match against the Czechs; he was as good as Cannavaro against the Aussies before being unfairly sent off. In the last two games you said he was brilliant yourself.

A back line that only concedes 2 goals - 1 own goal and 1 highly dubious penalty - is pretty damn good if you ask me.


It's better than pretty good. It's fucking amazing but........It wasn't just the back four and Buffon that kept those clean sheets. You defended as a team. Guttasso was more influential than both Grosso and Materatzi just to emphasise my point. The Italian team defended brilliantly not neccesarliy[sp?] all the defenders.

I'm not ragging on the two Italian defenders but I feel there was better players there than them. I agree Lamm was done in Extra time against you guys but that was the only bad 30 minutes I seen that guy play in over 630 minutes. and I believe Thuram was the next best defender in the tournament after Cannaravo.




Originally posted by charliebobo
[BAnd as for Zidane... do you honestly think any Muslim player isn't regularly called a terrorist? Do you think people's mothers/sisters/wives are not called whores EVERY SINGLE GAME?
Especially the good players. Especially if they're being insulted by someone who is notoriously an idiot. They should really know better than to treat him seriously.
Part of being a champion is not doing anything, just shutting the hell up and getting back at him by winning the match. [/B]


See now maybe it's because i'm from UK and racism isn't a big as a problem as it is in Europe but i've only ever heard of incident of a muslim player being called a terrorist and that was Mido playing for tottenham. He was called a shoe bomber and he butted the guy out also. Fuck this you should hold your temper. Nonsense leave them have it I say.

I think we live in a strange and fucked up world when racial slurs and insults are fine but reacting to them are not. There's something very wrong there.

But really that's not even my original point. Read through some of my replies. My point is this. Zidane was under unbearable tension and stress in that game. He was desperate for that win. It's easy to sit in front of a computer and insult him and call him stupid and mindless and what not but no-one on this board is ever going to know pressure of that kind. So he cracked? It happens. He's human not a robot for Christ sakes. I just wish people would get down off theri high horses every now and then. That last statement isn't aimed at you but at everyone spouting off about it.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch
I bloody well hate it when politicians get involved:

Italian rightwing politician Roberto Calderoli was quoted today insulting the Equipe Tricolore by saying "by playing Negros, Muslims & Communists they lost their own indentiy for the sake of winning."

The Azzurri on the other hand played "with a team true to the italian identiy"

Dumb racist son of a bitch!


Well that's fucking discusting. Surely this guy should be sacked now.

[TheMazVolta]

Originally posted by Scorpio24

I'm not ragging on the two Italian defenders but I feel there was better players there than them. I agree Lamm was done in Extra time against you guys but that was the only bad 30 minutes I seen that guy play in over 630 minutes. and I believe Thuram was the next best defender in the tournament after Cannaravo.

See now maybe it's because i'm from UK and racism isn't a big as a problem as it is in Europe

Lahm, Thuram, Cannavaro and Thuram...maybe Terry as well

Zidane, Ballack, Pirlo, Gattuso (silk and steel)...Veira on the bench

Klose and Henry up front...Crespo on the bench

I might sound really dumb, but isnt the UK part of Europe?

[Zeems McSnatch]

Originally posted by TheMazVolta
Lahm, Thuram, Cannavaro and Thuram...maybe Terry as well

Zidane, Ballack, Pirlo, Gattuso (silk and steel)...Veira on the bench

Klose and Henry up front...Crespo on the bench

I might sound really dumb, but isnt the UK part of Europe?

Thuram twice? Cloning is illegal! ;-)

My best 11:

Lehmann

Lahm - Cannavaro - Thuram - Miguel

Gattuso -Pirlo - Zidane - Kaka

Klose - Fernando Torres

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by TheMazVolta



I might sound really dumb, but isnt the UK part of Europe?


Yeah sorry I meant mainland Europe.

It's just that when something of a racist maner is said people in UK are discusted where as in mainland Europe it doesn't seem to bother people as much.

Case in point. Arrogones the Spanish coach called Henry a useless black monkey among other things and he keeps his job and no discipline is issued on him.

The media over here have come to the conclusion that if it is true Matteratzi did say those words they are glad Zidane nutted him no matter how rash. I tend to agree with them.

[TheMazVolta]

Originally posted by Scorpio24


Case in point. Arrogones the Spanish coach called Henry a useless black monkey among other things and he keeps his job and no discipline is issued on him.



I saw that when FSW was doing a special on Racism in Football... pretty messed up stuff... that Sammy Eto'o thing against Zaragoza when he almost walked off the pitch, was even worse...

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by TheMazVolta
I saw that when FSW was doing a special on Racism in Football... pretty messed up stuff... that Sammy Eto'o thing against Zaragoza when he almost walked off the pitch, was even worse...


Yeah and England played a friendly in Spain either last year or year before and the crowd started making monkey noises at the black players. Again nothing said no discplinary measures against the Spanish FA.

I just don't get it. It seems to be quite rife in mainland Europe but no-one seems to be doing anything about it.

It used to be a big problem in England along with violence but in all fiarness they have reall cleaned up the game over here.

[TheMazVolta]

Anoyne want to do one? I would have said +10, but I doubt any of us would want ourselves on our all time team

Keeper - Dino Zoff

Defenders - Paolo Maldini, Cafu, Franco Baresi

Midfielders - George Best, Michael Platini, Franz Beckenbauer, Bobby Charlton

Strikers - Paolo Rossi, Gerd Muller, Just Fontaine

[Scorpio24]

Oooooooh


Good idea.

This is gonna take some thinking.

[TheMazVolta]

George Banks is probably the best keeper of all time, but Zoff is my guy...

Leaving Pele, Maradona, Zidane, Ronaldo and Johan Cruyff off the list is hard, but they call it My +11 for a reason

[Zeems McSnatch]

nice one! I'm actually going for a totally unrealstic 4-2-4 formation, and this team will be all offense. 'cause it's more fun that way:

Sepp Maier

Paolo Maldini - Franz Beckenbauer - Franco Baresi - Cafu

Socrates - Zidane

George Best - Pele - Ronaldo - Garrincha



that should be entertaining...

[Scorpio24]

Ok.



GK - Gordon Banks.

LB - Paulo Mandini
CB - Franz Beckenbauer
CB - Franco Baresi
RB - Cafu

LM - Zinadine Zidane
CM - Steven Gerrard
CM - Roy Keane
RM - George Best

AT - Maradonna
AT - Van Basten


Subs:

GK - Peter Schemicel
DF - Bobby Moore
DF - Marcel Desaily
MF - Rudd Gullit
MF - Johan Cryuff
AT - Pele
AT - Kevin Keegan



That's my boys anyway. Got to have a large subs bench. It would be to hard otherwise.

[ToRontoRon]

WTF?!?!


I thought the tournament went well.


http://www.tsn.ca/tsn/news_story.asp?id=171061


:( :confused:

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by ToRontoRon
WTF?!?!


I thought the tournament went well.


http://www.tsn.ca/tsn/news_story.asp?id=171061


:( :confused:


WTF is that about?

Lets hope the poor get makes it.:(

[NightStalkerGtx]

Originally posted by arto_j
Well, if there's nothing else certain in life, you can always count on Spain to underperform.

Really spain underperformed? Did Spain ever win a world cup or make it really far in a while? NO so how on earth did it under perform? It really didnt face any tough teams b4 france so how can you say they underperformed? maybe if they beat italy germany and then lost to mexico then you can say they underperformed, but they played shit teams they won and people over hyped them as a an amazing team. I was happy they won really happy they won in group rounds (im from spain) but every knows Spain was going no where with Raul leading the team.

Spain didnt overperform or play any really good teams to indicate they underperfomed in anyway. Just a bunch of idiots that expected to much of em.

WWW.MARCA.COM best website for spain soccer. Other sites dont know shit. Wow spain best Ukraine 4-0 yes thats awesome, but was it really that hard to achieve?

Spain was an ok team they played bad teams ok vs bad= winner ok

Then they went again france which is good. Ok vs good= winner good

This was not spains time it couldve been without Raul, but he screwed it up he´s to old and worn out. He hasnt done shit for Real Madrid in 4 years.

The only players that really showed a strong effort for spain were F.Torres
S. Ramos
D. Villa

The rest blah

[arto_j]

Originally posted by charliebobo


(Lahm, Thuram, Ayala... give me a break. Zambrotta and Cannavaro were the best in their roles, Grosso was decisive in 2 matches and always played well, and Materazzi scored twice and was excellent yesterday and against Germany)


I agree. Lahm wasn't too good in the playoff stage either, until the bronze medal game. Cannavaro was the best player in the tournament by far.

[jason statham]

I wouldnt be too surprised if Materazzi said that comment, cause he is one nasty players, and people who watch the Calcio know that.
Well, if he said it, he deserved the headbutt.

[lunatic]

Originally posted by ToRontoRon
ROFLMFAO!!!

That is classic.


Haven't posted in this thread in a while, but congrats to TheMazVolta, Katsumoto, and all other Italian supporters. I believe that the team most deserving of the trophy was team Italy.

Funny that Germany wins in Italy in 1990, and Italy wins in Germany in 2006... Trade ya.

All in all, it was a great tournament, and I guess it's just good that Germany did very well at home, even if they didn't win. I'll tell you this, though, that goal in the 119th minute or whenever it was still feels like a serious kick in the nuts, even almost a week later. :o :D


Congrats Italy.

You are from Canada, right?
Then why so many pro-German exclamations? :confused:
Please let me enjoy the fact they did not win. And I am not saying they were an over-rated team. Just never liked it. ;)

Selfish Lunatic

[charliebobo]

A few comments about some ongoing discussions:

1. Spain underperformed because a) they always consider themselves among the favourites; b) they arguably have many great players, way better than, say, Germany or Portugal.

2. It is still unclear what Materazzi said. Some people say he called hima terrorsit, some say he insulted his sister, or whatever. I don't know.
Yes, racism is a very serious issue in football and Scorpio makes an interesting point about how it's alright to be racist to someone but wrong to react.
Zidane was foolish and deserved the red.
As for Materazzi, he's an idiot. The problem is, how do you punish people who insult players during a game? You can't.

3. (this is an old one) Grosso did not dive against Australia. He was trying to be fouled, and maybe he was or maybe he wasn't, but I don't think you can call it cheating. :)

[ToRontoRon]

Originally posted by lunatic
You are from Canada, right?
Then why so many pro-German exclamations? :confused:
Please let me enjoy the fact they did not win. And I am not saying they were an over-rated team. Just never liked it. ;)

Selfish Lunatic


I most definately consider myself 100% Canadian. Born in Canada, raised in Canada, I love hockey... I'm as Canadian as they come. But my background is German. Both of my parents were born there. The World Cup, and to a certain extent the Euro Cup, allow me to embrace my Germanic roots for a change. Hey, if Canada had a team in the World Cup, I'd be rooting for them over Germany, but that's not gonna happen any time soon.

Aside from Germany itself, (or whichever nation is host), I really think that Toronto is one of the best cities in the world to be in during the World Cup. The reason? Multiculturalism. Toronto is one of the most multi cultural cities in the world. Working with a guy from Portugal, and a guy from Italy, and a woman from England, etc., the friendly trash talking inevitably starts, and everyone gets really pumped about rooting for their roots. On my 15 minute drive to work, during the early stages of the World Cup, when no one was yet eliminated, I would probably pass by cars with flags for about 10 different countries, on average. A tonne of Portugese, a tonne of Trinidad and Tobago, a tonne of Italy, England, Brazil, Germany, etc., etc., etc.. I even saw a few Ghana and Togo flags during the tournament. Didn't quite see a flag from all 32 teams, but pretty close.

Long story short... Everyone is very proud of their roots during the World Cup, and it makes you want your country to win that much more, even if you're not actually from there.

Try going to the Little Italy region of Toronto and telling Canadians with Italian backgrounds that they can't celebrate unless they're from Italy itself. You won't get too far.


I'm just wondering why you have so many anti-German exclamations. "Die Germany" and "German jerks"? They weren't the friendliest of countries last century, but it's a different country know, and hey, that's why pencils have erasers. It's probably not a good idea to spout messages like that off for no good reason.

[NightStalkerGtx]

Originally posted by charliebobo
A few comments about some ongoing discussions:

1. Spain underperformed because a) they always consider themselves among the favourites; b) they arguably have many great players, way better than, say, Germany or Portugal.


Haha

A) They dont consider themselves among the favs they dont place themselves among the favs they just win one game and PEOPLE not them consider them among the favs.

B) Care to list, im Spanish and I wish that were true, but it isnt.

[charliebobo]

Originally posted by NightStalkerGtx
Haha

A) They dont consider themselves among the favs they dont place themselves among the favs they just win one game and PEOPLE not them consider them among the favs.

B) Care to list, im Spanish and I wish that were true, but it isnt.

Ok...

GK: Casillas is great, Canizares and Reyna are some of the best reserves in the world (just look at England, Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, France...)

DF: Puyol - one of the best centre backs around for many years;
Salgado and Marchena are solid too. As a back line it's not brilliant, but neither is Brazil's (Juan? Carlos can't defend, Lucio isn't that great either IMO) or Argentina (Burdisso, Heinze and Coloccini are poor) or Germany (Mertesacker and Friedrich can be embarassing)

MF: Xavi, Senna, Albelda - solid
Fabregas and Iniesta - great rising stars
Luis Garcia and Alonso - very good players

You could argue it's better than Italy's midfield, and on par with Germany's

FW: Torres is a very good striker and on his own better than all of Portugal's forwards put together; Raul is past his prime, but so are Del Piero, Totti, Figo, Zidane and you'd still consider them great.
Villa, Reyes and Joaquin are strong back-ups.

I don't see how these aren't at least 11 good-great players.

[daddiefatsacks]

Originally posted by ToRontoRon
I most definately consider myself 100% Canadian. Born in Canada, raised in Canada, I love hockey... I'm as Canadian as they come. But my background is German. Both of my parents were born there. The World Cup, and to a certain extent the Euro Cup, allow me to embrace my Germanic roots for a change. Hey, if Canada had a team in the World Cup, I'd be rooting for them over Germany, but that's not gonna happen any time soon.

Aside from Germany itself, (or whichever nation is host), I really think that Toronto is one of the best cities in the world to be in during the World Cup. The reason? Multiculturalism. Toronto is one of the most multi cultural cities in the world. Working with a guy from Portugal, and a guy from Italy, and a woman from England, etc., the friendly trash talking inevitably starts, and everyone gets really pumped about rooting for their roots. On my 15 minute drive to work, during the early stages of the World Cup, when no one was yet eliminated, I would probably pass by cars with flags for about 10 different countries, on average. A tonne of Portugese, a tonne of Trinidad and Tobago, a tonne of Italy, England, Brazil, Germany, etc., etc., etc.. I even saw a few Ghana and Togo flags during the tournament. Didn't quite see a flag from all 32 teams, but pretty close.

Long story short... Everyone is very proud of their roots during the World Cup, and it makes you want your country to win that much more, even if you're not actually from there.

Try going to the Little Italy region of Toronto and telling Canadians with Italian backgrounds that they can't celebrate unless they're from Italy itself. You won't get too far.


I'm just wondering why you have so many anti-German exclamations. "Die Germany" and "German jerks"? They weren't the friendliest of countries last century, but it's a different country know, and hey, that's why pencils have erasers. It's probably not a good idea to spout messages like that off for no good reason.

Beautiful post bud, this is exactly how it was here in the GTA and i agree it is certainly fun when the world cup happens because everyone is rooting for their nations....not necessarily the nations they were born in, but where their family comes from.

its hard to imagine a better city (other than Germany) that is more enjoyable than Toronto during the world cup

[NightStalkerGtx]

Originally posted by charliebobo
Ok...

GK: Casillas is great, Canizares and Reyna are some of the best reserves in the world (just look at England, Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, <a href="http://www.ntsearch.com/search.php?q=France&v=56">France</a>...)

DF: Puyol - one of the best centre backs around for many years;
Salgado and Marchena are solid too. As a back line it's not brilliant, but neither is Brazil's (Juan? Carlos can't defend, Lucio isn't that great either IMO) or Argentina (Burdisso, Heinze and Coloccini are poor) or Germany (Mertesacker and Friedrich can be embarassing)

MF: Xavi, Senna, Albelda - solid
Fabregas and Iniesta - great rising stars
Luis Garcia and Alonso - very good players

You could argue it's better than Italy's midfield, and on par with Germany's

FW: Torres is a very good striker and on his own better than all of Portugal's forwards put together; Raul is past his prime, but so are Del Piero, Totti, Figo, Zidane and you'd still consider them great.
Villa, Reyes and Joaquin are strong back-ups.

I don't see how these aren't at least 11 good-great players.

I think you are giving half of the players on the team to much credit the defense of Spain is terrible in general they dont work well together, The middle field is the only thing i would consider to be very good. Raul is past his prime, and so are the others u listed but they still play better then him Zidane played better in 1 game then Raul did in the past 4 years yea he was great, but know he is terrible, not World Cup playing material. Torres is good as well. As for Goal Keeping i think Casillas is highly over rated.

Also while i think Torres is great i wouldnt go as far as saying he´s better then all of portugals strikers put together... Alone one on one yes =) but Torres is at times to fast for his own good.

Over All I really dont see the outstanding team you see, but heck It makes me feel good that people consider spain to have an awesome team =).

Anyways Im not really looking for a fight so sorry if i got you mad in any way shape of form.

[jason statham]

Originally posted by Zeems McSnatch

Italian rightwing politician Roberto Calderoli was quoted today insulting the Equipe Tricolore by saying "by playing Negros, Muslims & Communists they lost their own indentiy for the sake of winning."



Holy shit, i just heard this on the news, i dont know what the fuck is going on, racism, head butting, cheating...... the list could go on.
Pathetic.

[bigred760]

Zidane has apologized, but not to the guy he head butted:

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=373767&cc=5901

If that's true, which I can't imagine why it wouldn't be, it just shows that some people have no class or respect for others on the soccer field.

[Scorpio24]

I'm missing The World Cup.:(

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I'm missing The World Cup.:(


You've only got 3 years and 11 months more to go . . .

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760
You've only got 3 years and 11 months more to go . . .


bigred you just made me cry. :( I hope you're happy with yourself.:mad: :(













;)

[jason statham]

And since its in South Africa, i dont think its going to be as good as 2006.

[bigred760]

Originally posted by jason statham
And since its in South Africa, i dont think its going to be as good as 2006.

Why not? I doubt the teams or competition will change that much.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by jason statham
And since its in South Africa, i dont think its going to be as good as 2006.


Rumor has it that something political is brewing and that they might take the tourni away for SA.

Word as it Australia are going to step in.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760
Why not? I doubt the teams or competition will change that much.


I think he means the heat. It's during the height of their summer apparently. They are expecting temps of 45+

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
I think he means the heat. It's during the height of their summer apparently. They are expecting temps of 45+

Maybe - but wasn't it hotter than hell in Germany this past month. In the Argentina/Germany game - those players were struggling - A LOT - at the end of the game.

[mdpuff01]

Originally posted by bigred760
Why not? I doubt the teams or competition will change that much.

It'll be hot, the crowds won't be as raucous, and there's the history factor. Basically, when the World Cup is in Europe, there are a lot of contenders from Europe (Switzerland, England, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, etc.) who all have a legitimate shot thanks to fan support. Whenever the World Cup is out of Europe, Brazil or Argentina win. It won't be as competative as it was this year

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760
Maybe - but wasn't it hotter than hell in Germany this past month. In the Argentina/Germany game - those players were struggling - A LOT - at the end of the game.


Yeah but that's kinda my point. I mean I think it's no accident that the best matches - Italy v German, Ital v France, Mexico v Argentina were al at night when the heat wasn't draining the players.

In SA I think we can expect even higher temps. I don't mind it going there but I think there will be even less games of high quality.


Also mdpuff makes a good point. You can put you mortgage on Brazil or Argentina down there.

Assuming it will still be there.

[TheMazVolta]

If it goes to Austrailia, wont it be just as hot? Or is it winter there in June/July? I cant remember....

Ya I am going through football withdrawl too...when does the Premership start up again Scorp?

If AC are in Serie B, I am definetly going to have to step up my Premiership watching

[Scorpio24]

BIG BIG news about ITALY. I'll post it in Euro football thread

[TheMazVolta]

Juve, Lazio, Fiorentina in Serie B...AC spared, but no Euro tourneys...that really sucks

[lunatic]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
bigred you just made me cry. :( I hope you're happy with yourself.:mad: :(













;)

Please be strong. We need you here!

Nice Lunatic

[Luv_my_Movies]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by TheMazVolta
[B]If it goes to Austrailia, wont it be just as hot?

it will be freezing in australia that time of year, we have our summer in between november - february, no i dont know what a white christmas feels like, heck i go to the beach during christmas!!

if it comes to australia hosting the world cup (which i highly doubt as we currently have only eight of the ten major stadiums required) i would be in football heaven. if we every get it the earliest we should expect to host it is 2018 after Souyth Africa and Brazil.

isnt south africa sopose to cold during june/july as it is in the southern hemisphere like australia?

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Luv_my_Movies
[QUOTE]Originally posted by TheMazVolta
[B]If it goes to Austrailia, wont it be just as hot?

it will be freezing in australia that time of year, we have our summer in between november - february, no i dont know what a white christmas feels like, heck i go to the beach during christmas!!

if it comes to australia hosting the world cup (which i highly doubt as we currently have only eight of the ten major stadiums required) i would be in football heaven. if we every get it the earliest we should expect to host it is 2018 after Souyth Africa and Brazil.

isnt south africa sopose to cold during june/july as it is in the southern hemisphere like australia?

I lived in South America for several years and it was pretty freakin' cold in June and July. That's why I thought South Africa wouldn't be as hot as the Northern Hemisphere during those months.

In other news, Bruce Arena is out as the U.S. National Team's head coach and I think the Americans are going after Germany's ex-coach. Arena did an awesome job as the coach, bringing them into the national spotlight. I don't think he was to blame for the Americans' poor showing in this last Cup, but it looks like he'll be the scapegoat. Here's hoping the new coach will be able to do as good a job as he did.

[someguy]

breaking news

zidane didn't headbutt materazzi, here's proof

http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/6394/1152734987584vj9.gif

here is what really happened

http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/4402/115266798984ft3903zidane4jt4.gif

[TheDeadWalk]

Actually Someguy, that just makes it look like it was the fucking predator.

[bigred760]

In some post-World Cup news, Zidane faces some kind of punishment for his head butt in the final.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=374112&cc=5901


Also saw on CNN's ticker that the Brazilian coach has quit also. Lot o' coaches leaving (whether by choice or force).

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760



Also saw on CNN's ticker that the Brazilian coach has quit also. Lot o' coaches leaving (whether by choice or force).


That's not really a surprise. There is always a big clear out of coaches at the end of any World Cup.

[bigred760]

Originally posted by Scorpio24
That's not really a surprise. There is always a big clear out of coaches at the end of any World Cup.

Very true, very true. And I always wonder why that is.

[Scorpio24]

Originally posted by bigred760
Very true, very true. And I always wonder why that is.


Think it's down to 2 basic reasons.

1. Most countries have rediculous high standards and if they don't win the World Cup it's looked upon as a faliure. Teams like Brazil, Argentina, England, Italy, France, Spain(Sometimes) Germany, Holland. They all expect to win or be there or there abouts. When they are not they pressure the coach to stand down.

2. Most coaches love the everyday involvment of the game. The training the buying and selling of players, the interaction. All that goes when you become a National Coach. They see their player one week every 2 months. I think alot of coached miss the buzz and get bored by the gaps.

[bigred760]

Just saw on CNN's ticker that the World Cup brought in the equivalent of 64 Super Bowls as far as viewership is concerned, an average of 93 million viewers per game. More proof why this is the biggest & greatest sporting event in the world!!!