Goal-line technology! On 2 April 2013, FIFA announced that GoalControl GmbH was chosen as the official goal-line technology provider for the tournament
The 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup is an international association football tournament that will be held in Brazil in 2013, as a prelude to the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[ The tournament is expected to be held from 15 to 30 June 2013. Brazil are the defending champions. As the competition partially overlaps with the fourth round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification in Asian zone, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) asked FIFA to consider a change of date. However, the AFC decided that the match day will be adjusted only for Japan, the representative of AFC for the Confederations Cup. Uruguay, Italy and Spain will have the opportunity to become the third team (after Argentina and France) to win all three major FIFA tournaments: the World Cup, the Olympic football competition and the Confederations Cup.
Indeed that is strange especially with the formation they are likely to play. Ramires legs in the 70th minute onwards are just worth him playing a bit poor in the first half. His energy just does not deplete, he runs from the 1st minute to the 90th minute at the same level which is stupidly quick. Guess Scolari wants to go more technical route with his team, get some Samba back into their game
Why is Ramires not in the Brazil squad? He seems like he is what makes Chelsea tick.
i read he refused to play in a friendly against russia or something like that, then scolari decided to punish him by not taking to the confederations cup. dunno if it's true though...
Tahiti's squad is funny, they all the same name, and play for 2 clubs in Tahiti xD Haven't put the Spain squad up yet as it is not the finalized 23 man squad, will do when it get's finalized.
On May 28 2013 21:01 Pandemona wrote: Tahiti's squad is funny, they all the same name, and play for 2 clubs in Tahiti xD Haven't put the Spain squad up yet as it is not the finalized 23 man squad, will do when it get's finalized.
4 players have the same surname? Btw who is the chinese guy Steevy Chong Hue :D? Anyways go Japan, looking forward to watch kagawa
Brazil's Arena Fonte Nova stadium suffers roof collapse
A Brazilian stadium which is due to host Confederations Cup matches in June has suffered a partial collapse of its roof, after an apparent build-up of rainwater.
Workers at the Arena Fonte Nova stadium in Salvador had to bail out water from another section to try to prevent it from collapsing. There were no initial reports of any injuries.
The incident happened as President Dilma Rousseff praised Brazil's preparations for the Confederations Cup.
Pretty weird situation for me. On one hand, I want asian football to do well, and japan is representing asian football here. On the other hand, they're korea's biggest rivals both on and really off the pitch. Oh well, I will still hope they lose all three of their group matches, but maybe not get embarassed in them
Why is Ramires not in the Brazil squad? He seems like he is what makes Chelsea tick.
Discipline issues. If I remember correctly he said he couldn't play because of some injury and then he went clubbing on the same night. Felipao also cut Romario in 2002 because of similar issues.
On May 28 2013 21:01 Pandemona wrote: Tahiti's squad is funny, they all the same name, and play for 2 clubs in Tahiti xD Haven't put the Spain squad up yet as it is not the finalized 23 man squad, will do when it get's finalized.
Commentator: "Tehau - nice cross !! and Tehau takes it with a header to Tehau - he spins around the opponent - such good handling - and takes it to Tehau - shoot ! Goal ! Tehau scores !! Nice assists from Tehau - what a talent this Tehau is."
Hello, does anyone know a page in the web where they will give notes (marks) for the players during the games or where you can participate in a fantasy game for teh confed cup this year?
Yeah won't take me to long to find them. Will be on a few sites i use and can get hold of them. Will just put a number next to their name. Will probably make a section for the post during the thread + Show Spoiler [Player Ratings] +
Oscar Neymar Hulk everyone in spain squad Keisuke Honda Javier Hernández Edinson Cavani Luis Suárez Stephan El Shaarawy Andrea Pirlo Mario Balotelli (for fireworks) Nigeria squad doesn't stand out to me without Moses in it.
Everyone exctited? I'm cheering for Spain, just because I don't think Brazil deserves to win with that Squad. Predictions for this weekend Brazil 2:1 Japan Mexico 0:2 Italy Spain 2:0 Uruguay
On June 16 2013 04:06 SpiritAshura wrote: Neymar silenced his critics pretty quickly eh...wonder if Japan can manage to keep this close or get 2-0'd quick
I don't think you're ever seen neymar playing for santos.
12 Jose CORONA, 2 Francisco RODRIGUEZ 22 Gerardo FLORES 15 Hector MORENO 3 Carlos SALCIDO 11 Javier AQUINO 6 Gerardo TORRADO 17 Jesus ZAVALA 18 Andres GUARDADO 14 Javier HERNANDEZ10 Giovani DOS SANTOS
Yeah you wouldn't put it past Mr Buffon, the god between the sticks that is xD Yeah good point by Kilbane (commentating) wonder why they didn't choose ElSharaway instead of the LW they have out atm
Haha, there discussing in the studio atm on BBC. I kinda agree with the Chelsea man Pat Nevin, why on earth is the keeper pulling his arms away so early. The ball wasn't even passed him and he took them away, i doubt he would of got it still, but wtf why do that makes it look so bad.
Was a great freekick none the less though! Pirlo the ITALIANOOO PRINCEE <3 Balotelli looks sharp too i have to mention that, looks so much more mature tonight. Who knows though it is Balotelli, no reason he cant get sent off.
Oh Martinez! Nice, i really like Roberto as a voice, whenever i hear him speak its always good positive analysis, well done ESPN!
Just came to my mind that Martinez is the most successful football player at the moment. European Champion, World Champion and Champions League winner at the same time lol.
always so much diving and crying. every major tournament it seems to get worse and worse. but then again with a body as corrupt as FIFA what can you expect.
On June 17 2013 07:50 Aeroplaneoverthesea wrote: People forget just how good Spain are.
Germany my arse.
? It's not like it's that hard to look good against Uruguay when they play like this.
LOL can't believe there's still some people out their who make ridiculous comments like this.
When was the last time you saw anyone actually play really well against Spain in a competitive game? You know when? About 7 years ago when the last didn't win a major international tournament.
Everyone plays like shit against Spain because Spain make them play like that with their total dominance of possession and their relentless pressing on the rare occasions they don't have the ball.
This means that objectively quality players like Ronaldo, Pirlo, Balotelli, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Sneijder, Van Persie, Ribery, Nasri, Benzema, Moutinho, Suarez, Cavani and many, many others have all had total shockers against Spain in the last five years since they started winning absolutely everything all the time.
They are already the most successful national team in history, how much longer do they need to keep going like this until people realise that teams don't play shit against Spain, Spain make teams play like shit.
On June 17 2013 07:50 Aeroplaneoverthesea wrote: People forget just how good Spain are.
Germany my arse.
? It's not like it's that hard to look good against Uruguay when they play like this.
LOL can't believe there's still some people out their who make ridiculous comments like this.
When was the last time you saw anyone actually play really well against Spain in a competitive game? You know when? About 7 years ago when the last didn't win a major international tournament.
Everyone plays like shit against Spain because Spain make them play like that with their total dominance of possession and their relentless pressing on the rare occasions they don't have the ball.
This means that objectively quality players like Ronaldo, Pirlo, Balotelli, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Sneijder, Van Persie, Ribery, Nasri, Benzema, Moutinho, Suarez, Cavani and many, many others have all had total shockers against Spain in the last five years since they started winning absolutely everything all the time.
They are already the most successful national team in history, how much longer do they need to keep going like this until people realise that teams don't play shit against Spain, Spain make teams play like shit.
how are they the most successful national team in history with 1 WC win? lol
On June 17 2013 07:50 Aeroplaneoverthesea wrote: People forget just how good Spain are.
Germany my arse.
? It's not like it's that hard to look good against Uruguay when they play like this.
LOL can't believe there's still some people out their who make ridiculous comments like this.
When was the last time you saw anyone actually play really well against Spain in a competitive game? You know when? About 7 years ago when the last didn't win a major international tournament.
Everyone plays like shit against Spain because Spain make them play like that with their total dominance of possession and their relentless pressing on the rare occasions they don't have the ball.
This means that objectively quality players like Ronaldo, Pirlo, Balotelli, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Sneijder, Van Persie, Ribery, Nasri, Benzema, Moutinho, Suarez, Cavani and many, many others have all had total shockers against Spain in the last five years since they started winning absolutely everything all the time.
They are already the most successful national team in history, how much longer do they need to keep going like this until people realise that teams don't play shit against Spain, Spain make teams play like shit.
how are they the most successful national team in history with 1 WC win? lol
1 World Cup, 2 European Championships. Only team to win three major tournaments back to back.
Longest streak ever by an international team undefeated (shared with Brazil 93-96).
Only the Garrincha/Pele combo at Brazil between 58 and 62 compares over an extended period.
12 Jose CORONA, 2 Francisco RODRIGUEZ 22 Gerardo FLORES 15 Hector MORENO 3 Carlos SALCIDO 11 Javier AQUINO 6 Gerardo TORRADO 17 Jesus ZAVALA 18 Andres GUARDADO 14 Javier HERNANDEZ10 Giovani DOS SANTOS
On June 17 2013 09:54 jim_knopf wrote: @pandemona: thank you for the ratings yesterday. can you post them for every game? Do you have some ratings for the italy and the spain game?
With the games being 11pm kick off BST i can't do the weekday ratings until the following morning around this time! Sorry, but of course they will be up asap
Also wtf @ Uruguay why was Alvaro Perreria on the bench 0.O guy is sick, him and Maxi are just awesome. Silly manager >.< Spain just OP Spain though, Mata on the bench with Martinez and Carzola just sums them up...THERE ON THE BENCH!!!
Wow Spain making Uruguay look totally helpless with their freaking 71% possession. I feel bad for others in group B. Can't wait to see Spain playing Italy & finally Brazil.
On June 17 2013 09:54 jim_knopf wrote: @pandemona: thank you for the ratings yesterday. can you post them for every game? Do you have some ratings for the italy and the spain game?
With the games being 11pm kick off BST i can't do the weekday ratings until the following morning around this time! Sorry, but of course they will be up asap
Also wtf @ Uruguay why was Alvaro Perreria on the bench 0.O guy is sick, him and Maxi are just awesome. Silly manager >.< Spain just OP Spain though, Mata on the bench with Martinez and Carzola just sums them up...THERE ON THE BENCH!!!
Yeah most nations (and clubs) would be glad if they had a midfield consisting of those three players ^^
On June 17 2013 07:42 ZapRoffo wrote: Spain playing amazing but also pissing everyone off with their ridiculous antics every time they get fouled.
Well they've done this since forever so I'm surprised that everyone's upset now. Spain is the poster child for whining and play-acting.
And yea, this group is just stupid. 3 sub-par teams and then the World Cup champions. Not even entertaining.
In what way is Uruguay sub-par? They made the semifinals of the 2010 World Cup, and have a ton of quality players hitting their prime just before the next World Cup (if they qualify).
On June 17 2013 07:42 ZapRoffo wrote: Spain playing amazing but also pissing everyone off with their ridiculous antics every time they get fouled.
Well they've done this since forever so I'm surprised that everyone's upset now. Spain is the poster child for whining and play-acting.
And yea, this group is just stupid. 3 sub-par teams and then the World Cup champions. Not even entertaining.
In what way is Uruguay sub-par? They made the semifinals of the 2010 World Cup, and have a ton of quality players hitting their prime just before the next World Cup (if they qualify).
Agreed. However, their results during the last 12 months have been quite unimpressive: Colombia 4–0 Uruguay Uruguay 1–1 Ecuador Argentina 3–0 Uruguay Bolivia 4-1 Uruguay Uruguay 1-1 Paraguay Chile 2-0 Uruguay Venezuela 0–1 Uruguay
Generally the longer the game goes, the bigger the difference gets in such games. I didn't expect Tahiti to achieve anything, but now I can see them going home with a 0-50 goal difference.
On June 18 2013 04:53 fabiano wrote: Went for a walk with my dog when it was 3x0, expected to get back and see a 5x0 or so but it seems like Tahiti is holding well enough :D
Man, Musa has some of the most shit decision making I've ever seen. He just looks silly most of the time he goes on to dribble instead of shoot. At least the other winger is looking great.
6-1 Nigeria. Dayum. Spain can win by 20 goals if they finish their chances.
On June 18 2013 05:52 Belha wrote: Spain pass the ball too much mo slaughter Tahiti. Germany, that would be no mercy at max. 10 goals at least for sure.
But how can these dudes mark iniesta, silva, cazorla. They will just glide through them like moths around the flames, wat.
Also, why aren't you posting in the general football thread, we don't have any italian regulars, Q_Q.
On June 18 2013 05:51 Mensol wrote: I wonder if Spain will be able to break most goals record against Tahiti.
It's totally possible.
While Spain might be able to score more than 31 goals on Tahiti, I think it's more likely they put a few in an then just possess the ball for the rest of the game
On June 18 2013 05:57 NasKe_ wrote: Remember when you play Fifa/PES and try to score a goal in the first move when playing in a easy level? Well, let see if Spain can do that.
Brazil vs Mexico today. This is the match that we are really waiting to see if the squad is any good. If we can't go past Mexico, we can't win versus Italy.
On June 19 2013 21:43 NasKe_ wrote: Brazil vs Mexico today. This is the match that we are really waiting to see if the squad is any good. If we can't go past Mexico, we can't win versus Italy.
lol I fail to see how Mexico should be much stronger than Japan?
half decent until it comes time to actually score. Half their games in 2013 have ended 0-0 >.< and the only reason they got a goal in the last game was the pk Idk what's wrong with them. I expected Chicharito to score at least a little more often with the national team.
Yeah, Mexico is going to be a bigger problem for Brazil then Japan was. Japan has a rather solid midfield, but no real striker you can count on to get a goal. Mexico has Hernandez, and Jimenez looks good from the little I've seen of him.
Brazil looked better than i though they would. Now, if only they'd play fucking Dante for once.
If this intensity is a sign of what is to come from Brazil next year in every game in the world cup, then they will become genuine contenders. Intesity like this is what Spain have with there stupidly good squad, when you mix that in with great players you get awesome teams, which become hard to beat.
On June 20 2013 04:10 Pandemona wrote: HE HAS DONE IT AGAIN NEYMARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
If this intensity is a sign of what is to come from Brazil next year in every game in the world cup, then they will become genuine contenders. Intesity like this is what Spain have with there stupidly good squad, when you mix that in with great players you get awesome teams, which become hard to beat.
That's because the brazilian crowd is pretty insane, and during the World Cup things will only get crazier...
Yeah you would think that is the reason they are performing like this so far. I mean they are awesome in this opening 15 minutes....will it continue who knows? But this is very enjoyable
LOL that defending..kk maybe not rofl
Ahaha, have you noticed that Howard Webbs head is all brown from his tan xD ahah tanned bald man ftw!
Bad foul that from Mexico, thats some nice pace Neymar showed too, his counter attacking pressence in Barca going be mental xD
lolol Man wtf is going on with Luiz's nose, worlds longest nose bless that xD Might have to take him off at this rate or they will pay the price of having 10 men
From the half hour I watched, my view of neymar is strengthened, meaning he will be a success in barca. With always two players on him, messi will be free to reign. He can also pass through a needle. These two things are what needed from him, no crazy amount of goals or super 5man run through's.
Yeah, that's true. But I really think that brazillians are cheering for Japan because we don't really like Italy (the team, not the country) and we are used to cheer for the weakest team.
On June 20 2013 08:09 NuclearJudas wrote: Two very harsh penalties this game.
I don't think there was really anyway Hasebe could have avoided the handball there...but like I said, Japan didn't really deserve their penalty either, so it's kinda fair?
On June 20 2013 08:09 NuclearJudas wrote: Two very harsh penalties this game.
I don't think there was really anyway Hasebe could have avoided the handball there...but like I said, Japan didn't really deserve their penalty either, so it's kinda fair?
I hate the italian football team. So full of themselves, I hate the coach and I hate the fact that if they win they get extra money while they are already bathing in gold. Disgusting. I always cheer for the little teams
OK what's the story of this game? I just turned it on 5 minutes ago at 3-3 (how did that happen?) and Italy looked dead. Looks like it was an incredible game.
Italian team is a disgrace for all european football imo....they didn't deserve this win at all and I really hope they won't pass groupstage ... >_> This was more ugly than the greek team when they won the EM.
Best match of the tourney so far. Japs were great, but fucked up and let Italy back into the game. Also, the Italians were incredibly lucky towards the end with the woodwork getting hit several times.
On June 20 2013 08:51 gTank wrote: Italian team is a disgrace for all european football imo....they didn't deserve this win at all and I really hope they won't pass groupstage ... >_> This was more ugly than the greek team when they won the EM.
On June 20 2013 08:51 NuclearJudas wrote: Best match of the tourney so far. Japs were great, but fucked up and let Italy back into the game. Also, the Italians were incredibly lucky towards the end with the woodwork getting hit several times.
On June 20 2013 08:51 gTank wrote: Italian team is a disgrace for all european football imo....they didn't deserve this win at all and I really hope they won't pass groupstage ... >_> This was more ugly than the greek team when they won the EM.
They're already through after this win.
Mean Groupstage in the WC next year, sry forgot to write that.
Very impressed with Japan's passing game. They had Italy on the rope the entire game. Definitely not the Japan we saw against Brazil. Italy looked very sluggish and their defense made a lot of mistakes, but part of being a powerhouse is the ability to take the win in the end even if you got owned the entire game. I also think this game was a taste of what it could look like when teams pressure Pirlo. Mexico didn't pressure him at all and Italy made them look silly as a reward. Japan learned from Mexico's mistake.
Well suffocating the opponent's key player is not a new concept in football. Mexico was just silly. It comes down to how good he is and if he's worth it. Messi needs at least 3-4 players around him when he gets the ball for example. But against an old pirlo it's easier to pull off.
On June 20 2013 17:52 Ysellian wrote: Damn if only the Italy vs Japan match wasn't so late Really sad to have missed that match.
Same here, only watched the 1st half. Really liked Japan's way of playing, but in the end the dirty Italians take it home again. Just like last week in the U-21 vs Holland, play worse, still win.
If I could summarize that game in a BW joke, it was like watching Japan muta harass the shit out of Italy, gains total map control for most of the game, but whenever Italy pushed out with M&M group, they denied an expansion and ends up winning. I wonder how Brazil vs. Italy game would turn out. All Brazil need is a draw to avoid Spain, so Italy needs to play for the win. But I'm sure they want to rest their key players too since they are both already through.
I hate it when the supposed two best teams in the group plays each other last. Most of the times, they are both through, so the game isn't as exciting since not much is on the line. Brazil v Portugal in 2010 and Argentina vs Netherland in 2006 comes to mind.
On June 20 2013 22:37 Steveling wrote: I'll be out for the evening. I hope I catch some of it at least. I expect to find all the 50 goals gifs here, ferrose counting on you bro, lol.
On June 20 2013 22:37 Steveling wrote: I'll be out for the evening. I hope I catch some of it at least. I expect to find all the 50 goals gifs here, ferrose counting on you bro, lol.
On June 20 2013 17:52 Ysellian wrote: Damn if only the Italy vs Japan match wasn't so late Really sad to have missed that match.
Same here, only watched the 1st half. Really liked Japan's way of playing, but in the end the dirty Italians take it home again. Just like last week in the U-21 vs Holland, play worse, still win.
That's why Italy always does well at tournaments and why I brt them to win this cup. And this is still nothing compared to euro 2000 Italy vs NL =/
the goalkeeper gets the 0-8 and he's so mad that he's punching his fists into the lawn. this is sports.. sorry, this is just that awesome it almost gets tears in my eyes.
I was waiting for this to come back after the national anthems on espn hd and all of a sudden this infomercial about some hair products start. i was like wtf and the game was already in the 5th min on regular espn.
It's just typical. Italy just (seem) to play bad for a large part of the match and than a single flash of brilliance is enough for them. Amazing pass from Balotelli idd.
Indeed, i think the ref fucked up a bit. Like on FIFA but if you count it as "advantage" then the goal is fine, but no reason why if he did blow for penalty why he couldn't of canceled the goal and gave a penalty. Oh well, goal is fine outcome.
Quite clever the way Balotelli played this free-kick, I bet everyone on and off the field thought he'd try to hit the goal directly. Too bad it didn't get them anything.
Just to clear things up Fabiano: I like Jô but scoring last minute goals in won games doesnt make you starter material imo. Fred is not flashy but he gets the job done more often than not and has proven himself on various occasions.
Some explain to me how Arbeloa plays over Azpilicueta? I know Azpi isn't the finished article, but at the age of 23 and playing for Chelsea makes him a far better RB than Arbeloa will ever be
On June 24 2013 05:24 Pandemona wrote: Some explain to me how Arbeloa plays over Azpilicueta? I know Azpi isn't the finished article, but at the age of 23 and playing for Chelsea makes him a far better RB than Arbeloa will ever be
Dat movement from iniesta. woow
Because Arboeola is a Real Madrid player, lol. (Spanish people ask the same every day... but He continue playing).
Anyway, great match of Iniesta (He is pure magic) and Jordi Alba.
And great first half from Nigeria, they really tried hard.
Haha indeed. Yeah good win, bit shaky at the back, but Spain didn't need to get out of 3rd gear tonight. Torres scoring is a plus too. Villa Torres Soldado 3 great strikers all in goal scoring form to help win this championship. Brazil vs Spain final will be the dream! First up though is a Euro 2012 final PART 2!!
On June 24 2013 22:11 jim_knopf wrote: @pandemona: hey do you have the ratings for the group b games game day 3 as well?
On June 27 2013 03:58 Pandemona wrote: Think they need like a strong manager. Getting a strong coach like Marcelo Bielsa and his international experience is what Uruguay need imo.
Really? I actually like tabarez as manager especially after that semifinal run(WC) and win in the south american cup. Also, semis in confed cup isn't bad either. I think its just that uruguay don't have much creative midfielders to fully utilize their strikers
Lol just realized cavani is about the same height as suarez. Why does the guy seem so tall? I thought he'd be like 1.95m at least. I guess it's because of his long face
Don't brazil have other keepers? I know he just saved a penalty and everything, but i still remember him messing up in the 2010 world cup. and he's getting up there in age.
On June 27 2013 04:19 Tazza wrote: Don't brazil have other keepers? I know he just saved a penalty and everything, but i still remember him messing up in the 2010 world cup. and he's getting up there in age.
I don't watch soccer that often, but I can't remember any other gk from Brazil. We are used to have Marcos (2002 WC) and Julio Cesar. Rogerio Ceni (the gk that has score more than 100 goals) is also getting very old and will soon stop playing.
Yeah, i think fred actually hit that with the outside of his foot. damn lucky imo. But he's scoring rate for brazil under scolari is pretty good. Guy's a poacher
On June 27 2013 04:56 dmnum wrote: I find it funny that people hate so much on Fred but strikers like Mandzukic and Cavani get so much love.
Mandzukic maybe, but Cavani? Have you seen him this game? He has played as fkn RB this game, and tackling well and setting up the counter attacks. Thats commitment, will give him like 10 ticks in Mourinho's book if he is watching this game (which im pretty sure he is) ^_^
On June 27 2013 05:48 NuclearJudas wrote: Can't fucking wait to see Paulinho in the PL.
You might not get the chance. I have a feeling Madrid will go in for him as retribution for the Bale non-sale. Marca has already started with the "Ancelotti is a long time fan" nonsense.
Pretty good game, tough way to go out for Uruguay.
On June 27 2013 05:48 NuclearJudas wrote: Can't fucking wait to see Paulinho in the PL.
You might not get the chance. I have a feeling Madrid will go in for him as retribution for the Bale non-sale. Marca has already started with the "Ancelotti is a long time fan" nonsense.
Pretty good game, tough way to go out for Uruguay.
GG! Was boring and amazing at times but still, go Brazil! Cavani looking good xD Mourinho be rubbing his hands watching him defend, i think that performance will seal his switch to Chelsea now. Even Abramovich himself be thinking oo i like.
Italy have lost Balotelli thus they have lost their only striker (imo and many other pundits) thus Italy just wont score unless Pirlo gets a freekick/penalty. Spain should win, 70% possesion and 3-0. Torres to start and score :W
On June 27 2013 05:48 NuclearJudas wrote: Can't fucking wait to see Paulinho in the PL.
You might not get the chance. I have a feeling Madrid will go in for him as retribution for the Bale non-sale. Marca has already started with the "Ancelotti is a long time fan" nonsense.
Pretty good game, tough way to go out for Uruguay.
Deal already made with Tottenham.
A deal with Corinthians, yes, but Paulinho has not signed anything.
I really hope it happens because a Paulinho + Sandro combination would be incredible.
I think if they do play Spain, they should drop Fred and use Neymar up top in a 4-3-3/false nine role. No use having a true striker up there if you're not going to be seeing the ball a lot. Plus he won't press
Every team in this competition have looked lackluster, especially compared to Spain. Spain's dominating SO ridiculously hard. I expect an easy stomp vs Italy and an even easier stomp against Brasil.
On June 27 2013 17:29 Twisted wrote: Every team in this competition have looked lackluster, especially compared to Spain. Spain's dominating SO ridiculously hard. I expect an easy stomp vs Italy and an even easier stomp against Brasil.
From all the later matches i saw i think the same.
2014 Spain or Germany, other teams are one level lower at least
Italy took 8 goals in 3 matches against teams that are quite inferior to Spain. Italy might not get stomped badly, but the chances of winning are very close to 0.
Italy has no striker now Balotelli is injured and they have been awful at the back with so many mistakes (3-2 vs Japan) and people think they can upset Spain? If anything it should be, can Spain humiliate them even more than they dead in the final of Euro 2012?
Lets go ESPANYOL!! Torres starts, now show me ur better than Cavani or u will be gone sir !
Im secretly hoping that sometime in this tournament goal line technology will be used. It hasn't been used yet and we need to check it works...so please someone test the technology >.<
OK wtf going on. Spain shite 0.o Italy having all the chances.
On June 28 2013 04:21 fabiano wrote: Just give Pirlo 2 frontal freekicks and Italy can win.
At this rate they wont even need Pirlo and his set pieces. Counter attack and they are in wherever they decide to attack. Left Right through the middle. Woeful defending from Spain at the back
Wow game coming alive. Wow Torres, thats like old old Torres 0.O, well would of been with it going in the back of the net, but still wow, awesome turn and shot
Spain with the possession lead as usual, but Italy are definitely the better playing team in the first half. Not surprised. Spain have such insane quality and talent in their team though, one moment of brilliance is all it takes.
Italy playing great but that's also because Spain is playing like utter shit. When the spaces get bigger later in the game I expect Spain to improve though.
I think Torres is a great player btw, just not used correctly in the premier league. I think he would be better if he returns to the liga.
On June 28 2013 04:52 Twisted wrote: Italy playing great but that's also because Spain is playing like utter shit. When the spaces get bigger later in the game I expect Spain to improve though.
I think Torres is a great player btw, just not used correctly in the premier league. I think he would be better if he returns to the liga.
pretty sure Torres had his best time in Liverpool and not in Spain, no idea where you get that idea from
It's interesting to note how the audience is very much rooting for Italy. O_o They're going ''Olé'' when Italy passes the ball around and all, and booing when Spain does it. I'm so used to everyone non-italian hating on Italy, feels very weird.
On June 28 2013 05:01 Holgerius wrote: It's interesting to note how the audience is very much rooting for Italy. O_o They're going ''Olé'' when Italy passes the ball around and all, and booing when Spain does it. I'm so used to everyone non-italian hating on Italy, feels very weird.
You know a team has dominated for far too long when the neutrals are rooting for italy of all teams against you, rofl.
On June 28 2013 05:02 Pandemona wrote: Wow this is bold. Taking of a CB and putting De Rossi as the main CB...more attacking options with that but less insurance defensively...interesting
De rossi played this same position in the opening match of the last eurocup vs spain (The match that ended 1-1 not the final)
Italy doesn't get booed when:
A) They play Germany B) Brazil fans prefer Italy in final over Spain
On June 28 2013 05:02 Pandemona wrote: Wow this is bold. Taking of a CB and putting De Rossi as the main CB...more attacking options with that but less insurance defensively...interesting
De rossi played this same position in the opening match of the last eurocup vs spain (The match that ended 1-1 not the final)
Italy doesn't get booed when:
A) They play Germany B) Brazil fans prefer Italy in final over Spain
:p
Well... I would say Italy is pretty much the most popular national team over here (after Brazil ofc)
On June 28 2013 06:00 Copymizer wrote: Spain woulda been down 4-0 if it wasn't because Casillas has been taking everything coming at him
He is also one of the main reasons for Spain's "dominance". Spain would be so much weaker without him saving their asses so many times because they'd have to play from behind a lot
Awesome first half of the extra time. Spain have chance after chance, italy hit the post... love/hate this kind of stuff. So nervous. Wish I had a beer or two. XD
On June 28 2013 05:20 Pandemona wrote: Pedro off please god that guy has played bad all tournament and yet still is starting every game over Mata ;_;
I disagree. Pedro in Spain is much better. In this game he has been running all the game, defending, recovering balls in the defense and in the mid, pressing a lot. He is one of the most hard-worker players that I have seen.
Mata this game has been meh. He was tired already when he entered the field, lol.
Will spain's dominance continue till wc 2014? That would be so epic and also it would be kind of anticlimactic if they lost from brazil now. We need a final boss next year for the infinite drama and tension.
What a masterclass in penalties holy shit. Haven't seen anything like that since the final of the Africa cup in.. 2011? The one where Zambia shot every penalty in the top corner.
Very even game. First half Italy was better, second half Spain was better (talking about the full 120 minutes). Both hit the post once. Great tense game. Really expected Spain to do better but Italy played awesome.
Glad Spain won though, great match upcoming in the final.
Spains way of playing is footballs answer to what broodlord/infestor was to WOL. Boring, predictable and OP. Italy somehow managed to shut them down for a good part of the game and I really think they deserved to finally win this time.
On June 28 2013 07:06 DaCruise wrote: Spains way of playing is footballs answer to what broodlord/infestor was to WOL. Boring, predictable and OP. Italy somehow managed to shut them down for a good part of the game and I really think they deserved to finally win this time.
It's not OP, its only OP if teams fail to convert their chances.
On June 28 2013 07:00 Twisted wrote: What a masterclass in penalties holy shit. Haven't seen anything like that since the final of the Africa cup in.. 2011? The one where Zambia shot every penalty in the top corner.
Very even game. First half Italy was better, second half Spain was better (talking about the full 120 minutes). Both hit the post once. Great tense game. Really expected Spain to do better but Italy played awesome.
Glad Spain won though, great match upcoming in the final.
agreed with this. spain really turned it up after the 80th or so
Surprisingly clutch penalties considering the 120 minutes of hard work most of those guys had to complete (BTW, in such exhausting circumstances, shouldn't coaches pick goalies to shot first?). But someone had to fail eventually.
I guess once again, the match for 3rd place will be much more interesting than the final.
Scumbag thunderstorm, my cable went out just before the beginning of the second period of extra time, and didn't come back up until a few minutes after the penalties
On June 28 2013 07:24 Ferrose wrote: Scumbag thunderstorm, my cable went out just before the beginning of the second period of extra time, and didn't come back up until a few minutes after the penalties
You got to watch pirlo's penalty. That man has nerves of steel.
I was 8 when I was watching the wc final in 94 and still love how people remember baggio every time someone misses a penalty (by shooting over the bar)
On June 28 2013 12:04 Raidern wrote: I was 8 when I was watching the wc final in 94 and still love how people remember baggio every time someone misses a penalty (by shooting over the bar)
Well, he's just the perfect example of how depressing penalties can be. The big star player, the one who got them there in the first place, known for being a sick penalty taker, and in the most important moment in his career... XD So sad.
Now why did they plan that final so late at night? Everything so far has been fine, schedule-wise, now they suddenly change it up? Oh well, I suppose that's what mondays are for...
I think it's because they thought they had to play the 3rd place play off game on the same time as final and wanted a nice gap between. It is 6:30pm kick off in Brazil Time with the 3rd place game kicking off a 1pm
On June 28 2013 12:04 Raidern wrote: I was 8 when I was watching the wc final in 94 and still love how people remember baggio every time someone misses a penalty (by shooting over the bar)
On June 28 2013 06:51 Steveling wrote: Will spain's dominance continue till wc 2014? That would be so epic and also it would be kind of anticlimactic if they lost from brazil now. We need a final boss next year for the infinite drama and tension.
Isn't the Confederations Cup winner cursed to never win the World Cup that follows it? So both teams should be throwing the games
On June 28 2013 06:51 Steveling wrote: Will spain's dominance continue till wc 2014? That would be so epic and also it would be kind of anticlimactic if they lost from brazil now. We need a final boss next year for the infinite drama and tension.
Isn't the Confederations Cup winner cursed to never win the World Cup that follows it? So both teams should be throwing the games
Well to be fair, only France and Brazil have won Confed Cups that came right before the WC and those two can't win WC all the time
Okay, the game for third place is supposed to have started right now...but they don't broadcast it here. And I can't find a stream either, guess noone is interested .
I think a yellow was sufficient. Neymar will have problems bringing that ball to control with both Arbeloa and Ramos(?) near him and going clear on goal. A red would have been very harsh, imo.
On June 27 2013 17:29 Twisted wrote: Every team in this competition have looked lackluster, especially compared to Spain. Spain's dominating SO ridiculously hard. I expect an easy stomp vs Italy and an even easier stomp against Brasil.
Great first half so far. Its always fun with some temperature, although I don't think Brazil is gaining any fans with their dangerous tackles, easy dives and straight out dirty kicks. More of the same please!
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
confederations cup isnt the wc, lets see what happens in a year after nymer gets to be a rich guy in europe for a bit.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
confederations cup isnt the wc, lets see what happens in a year after nymer gets to be a rich guy in europe for a bit.
how many chances did messi already have with the copa america? An even easier tournament than CC lol
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
confederations cup isnt the wc, lets see what happens in a year after nymer gets to be a rich guy in europe for a bit.
He made more than most europeans while playing in Brazil, he should be fine on that front.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
You obviously don't watch any Argentina games... I don't know if you are trolling in every post you make or if you're just retarded.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
one can carry national team with world class players and one can deliver no matter what.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
You obviously don't watch any Argentina games... I don't know if you are trolling in every post you make or if you're just retarded.
hey I watch the games of big tournaments, should be enough I guess you rate friendlies = tournament games?
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
Messi is better, no one questions that, however, most european teams would not survive this "bush league", you should try watching it.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
You obviously don't watch any Argentina games... I don't know if you are trolling in every post you make or if you're just retarded.
hey I watch the games of big tournaments, should be enough I guess you rate friendlies = tournament games?
Because South America WC qualif. are friendlies maybe? Pff... The games Messi has to play in Colombia, Uruguay, Chile, ... and the stupid games in Peru; are far more difficult than this half friendly Confederation Cup... And you only watch big tournaments, how can you rate Neymar when he hasn't even participated in one yet... This cup just isn't a big tournament, don't get over excited.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
confederations cup isnt the wc, lets see what happens in a year after nymer gets to be a rich guy in europe for a bit.
how many chances did messi already have with the copa america? An even easier tournament than CC lol
copa americana is the weirdest tournament of the majors, because lots of random teams win it despite facing superior argentina/brazil teams.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
Messi is better, no one questions that, however, most european teams would not survive this "bush league", you should try watching it.
35 years old alex de souza destroying this "bush league". It's not really worth to watch
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
confederations cup isnt the wc, lets see what happens in a year after nymer gets to be a rich guy in europe for a bit.
how many chances did messi already have with the copa america? An even easier tournament than CC lol
copa americana is the weirdest tournament of the majors, because lots of random teams win it despite facing superior argentina/brazil teams.
not in the last decade, 2001 was the only weirdo in the last years, otherwise all deserving winners
Messi just keeps choking in important games for Argentina
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
Messi is better, no one questions that, however, most european teams would not survive this "bush league", you should try watching it.
Im sorry I offended you. I watch the footie I can, though I concede I am not very qualified when it comes to judging the Brazilian league. But compared to the big european leagues? No contest!
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
Messi is better, no one questions that, however, most european teams would not survive this "bush league", you should try watching it.
Im sorry I offended you. I watch the footie I can, though I concede I am not very qualified when it comes to judging the Brazilian league. But compared to the big european leagues? No contest!
Campeonato Brasileiro is very low level, and most games are ridiculously boring to watch, so yea, it may not be a "bush league", but it is definitely not worth watching for "outsiders".
I think Arbeloa and Torres have been playing bad, but there is a lot more going wrong for this Spain team to blame it on just these two players. Brazil are simply beating them on every front except for the Goalkeeper.
On July 01 2013 07:46 sharkie wrote: difference between Neymar and Messi - one actually can carry the national team and one can only deliever with world class team mates
One has been the worlds best player for several years, the other has spent his time in a bush league. Neymar is exciting no doubt, but lets not get carried away after a few friendlies!
The brazil league is not a bush league. Even if you compare it to la liga or premier league, it may be worse, but its still not close to being a bush league especially since the league can keep top players
On July 01 2013 07:59 Ysellian wrote: I think Arbeloa and Torres have been playing bad, but there is a lot more going wrong for this Spain team to blame it on just these two players. Brazil are simply beating them on every front except for the Goalkeeper.
They seem to struggle to string together passes against Brazils incredibly aggressive pressure. Will be interesting to see if Brazil can keep it up, or if they tire. Good chance they will rack up some more cards aswell when/if they can't keep up with the quick spanish feet. Spain really need to watch out for that kid Neymar though!
awesome game by brasil, really this is awesome and how they go into the crowd, so many emotions, i am scared for all other nations if the atmosphere stays like this.
Damn that feels like Bayern-Barca of this year... One team just wants a lot more and is destroying Spain/Barca in every part of the game... Azpi for Arbeloa and Neymar scored haha. Good start for the Chelsea boy
On June 27 2013 17:29 Twisted wrote: Every team in this competition have looked lackluster, especially compared to Spain. Spain's dominating SO ridiculously hard. I expect an easy stomp vs Italy and an even easier stomp against Brasil.
I'm usually cheering for Spain, but today it seems like a good day to make Barca players realize they need to work hard to win again. If they had won this, they would have gone to vacations thinking they were the best, now a good spanking should bring some reaction
On July 01 2013 08:12 WillyWanker wrote: I'm usually cheering for Spain, but today it seems like a good day to make Barca players realize they need to work hard to win again. If they had won this, they would have gone to vacations thinking they were the best, now a good spanking should bring some reaction
You think they would have learned from the humiliation vs Bayern.
On July 01 2013 08:13 Trowa127 wrote: rofl. has anyone bought cesar btw? from QPR i mean
Pretty sure he's still in QPR, but I'm also pretty sure he'll move back into the PL this summer. I hope we (Arsenal) sign him. Woj needs a world class keeper to learn from.
On July 01 2013 08:08 dmnum wrote: Please Steveling tell me Fred is bad now.
Well irony has struck once again and I didn't see the goal, rofl. But it's his style of play that is average, not his skills.
You know like you would never call Pipo Inzaghi a #1 striker or klose, don't know if you get what I mean.
ROFL AT RAMOS!
They have the most beast midfield ever and they let ramos take freekicks and penalties, I say they be trolling, lol.
Fred has created lots and lots of danger this game, more than Neymar, I think he's very good. He may not have much flair, but he's holding the ball really well and also defends a lot. And I like Scolari picking him against the public opinion and getting it right. Too bad he's a bit old, so he'll already be on the decline after 2014.
On July 01 2013 08:13 Trowa127 wrote: rofl. has anyone bought cesar btw? from QPR i mean
Pretty sure he's still in QPR, but I'm also pretty sure he'll move back into the PL this summer. I hope we (Arsenal) sign him. Woj needs a world class keeper to learn from.
Would be good, he was killer at QPR last season but the team as a whole was woeful.
Brazil looks completely in control, very impressive team they put together. Just wish FIFA wasnt so god damn corrupt so they could cut down on this diving crap.
On July 01 2013 08:30 WillyWanker wrote: After a red card? Are you kidding me?
There are plenty of good captains that has a good control on his team out on the pitch when it comes to this. You will also see good captains sending his teammates away from the ref when they are starting to rush to him to talk. To say that every team in Europe swarm him like Barca/Spain is simply wrong.
On July 01 2013 08:33 NuclearJudas wrote: Someone explain the red pls, I missed a few minutes.
Dirty tackle by Pique to stop Neymar in a 2v2 situation, I think it was wrong as Neymar was not heading directly towards the goal, but others think it was right as he might have robbed Neymar of a juicy scoring chance.
On July 01 2013 08:35 Steveling wrote: There should be more strict rules about swarming the ref/diving, as well as more red cards for rough play.
Pretty sure Fifa spoke out about this a few years ago and said that any time players swarm the ref they will get carded. Have a fuzzy memory that it happened in a game. Or I could just be fantasising. This should be the way they do it anyway.
Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
On July 01 2013 08:38 NasKe_ wrote: Did you guys see the "Adios"?
Yeah. Why the fuck would you bring an iPad to a live game?
Since this is in Rio, I don't think he's going back home with that iPad.
Hehe, I guess that could be the exlanation! Speaking of other peoples iPads, ironically your nick name means something like "to steal" in my language;)
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
On July 01 2013 08:43 Batisterio-PiB wrote: The game is so easy that makes me think that it can be a setup...especially since there are so many manifestation around the country
Nah not if you had watched the Italy vs Spain game
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
"Well they do it so WHY CANT I?!?"
Spain is pretty notorious for doing it...
You missed my point. Of course I think it's bad; it wastes time, it's never punished and the referee can sometimes take a bad decision because of it. But saying Spain and Barcelona are the king of this is just ridiculous. Just watch some South American games or Italian games and see what happens... Spain is just making people mad because of their dominance, so every little thing that they don't do perfectly is seen as an evil thing...
Julio Cesar is absolutely sick this game...that could have been 2 goals in the last 10 minutes. Brazil is def. doing better but Spain had good opportunities too, there was the penalty and the chance Luiz miraclesaved. 3-0 should have been 4-2.
No one can have any complains about Ballack being furious in that situation. Also, you can't really crowd the ref on your own. That said, I agree that a lot of teams do this these days, and hopefully some regulations will be put into place to stop it. It doesn't matter who does it, it's kiddie league bullshit.
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
"Well they do it so WHY CANT I?!?"
Spain is pretty notorious for doing it...
You missed my point. Of course I think it's bad; it wastes time, it's never punished and the referee can sometimes take a bad decision because of it. But saying Spain and Barcelona are the king of this is just ridiculous. Just watch some South American games or Italian games and see what happens... Spain is just making people mad because of their dominance, so every little thing that they don't do perfectly is seen as an evil thing...
No, Spain/Barca/Real are definitely the kings of it. Even their fans agree with that lol
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
"Well they do it so WHY CANT I?!?"
Spain is pretty notorious for doing it...
You missed my point. Of course I think it's bad; it wastes time, it's never punished and the referee can sometimes take a bad decision because of it. But saying Spain and Barcelona are the king of this is just ridiculous. Just watch some South American games or Italian games and see what happens... Spain is just making people mad because of their dominance, so every little thing that they don't do perfectly is seen as an evil thing...
No, Spain/Barca/Real are definitely the kings of it. Even their fans agree with that lol
Their certainly higher profile...
I think if anyone would agree with you on its primarily because theyre just tired of people whining about it and take a "so what" attitude.
Thats besides the point though.. Spain were pretty flat and Brazil was tactically and mentally so far ahead today it was quite silly..
really well played, also julius caesar, some keepers are so sleepy in such a game but he was staying focused and held 2 times brilliantly. call me impressed.
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
"Well they do it so WHY CANT I?!?"
Spain is pretty notorious for doing it...
You missed my point. Of course I think it's bad; it wastes time, it's never punished and the referee can sometimes take a bad decision because of it. But saying Spain and Barcelona are the king of this is just ridiculous. Just watch some South American games or Italian games and see what happens... Spain is just making people mad because of their dominance, so every little thing that they don't do perfectly is seen as an evil thing...
No, Spain/Barca/Real are definitely the kings of it. Even their fans agree with that lol
Their certainly higher profile...
I think if anyone would agree with you on its primarily because theyre just tired of people whining about it and take a "so what" attitude.
Thats besides the point though.. Spain were pretty flat and Brazil was tactically and mentally so far ahead today it was quite silly..
I'm already looking so much foward to WC next year, can't wait to see how Germany will take on Brasil, brasils physique is just incredible and their pace on collectivity and finish on the pitch was like watching a champions league club.
1. Fred is bad indeed, but so lucky that makes him look almost good. 2. Neymar is fucking amazingly talented, best player on the field, just needs to fix his diving problem. 3. Julio César is definitely the best goalkeeper Brazil can field, and top class. 4. David Luiz man, David Luiz and Thiago Silva are top notch defenders, really solid players. 5. Oscar is lacking, he is incredibly good but he definitely underperformed. 6. This group is very focused, and I praise Felipão for not bringing Ronaldinho Gaúcho, because that asshole would fuck it up really bad.
On July 01 2013 08:40 WillyWanker wrote: Of course there are some good captains, and usually Puyol is here for that. But saying that it's "classic Spain/Barca" to do this is at least as false as when I said every team in Europe does it... Sure it's more frequent in Spain (Madrid does exactly the same) but it's because there is no punishment for this... But I've seen many teams do this when the players don't like the decision... PSG (that I follow) does it, Ballack ran after the referee in a certain game I shouldn't mention...
"Well they do it so WHY CANT I?!?"
Spain is pretty notorious for doing it...
You missed my point. Of course I think it's bad; it wastes time, it's never punished and the referee can sometimes take a bad decision because of it. But saying Spain and Barcelona are the king of this is just ridiculous. Just watch some South American games or Italian games and see what happens... Spain is just making people mad because of their dominance, so every little thing that they don't do perfectly is seen as an evil thing...
No, Spain/Barca/Real are definitely the kings of it. Even their fans agree with that lol
Their certainly higher profile...
I think if anyone would agree with you on its primarily because theyre just tired of people whining about it and take a "so what" attitude.
Thats besides the point though.. Spain were pretty flat and Brazil was tactically and mentally so far ahead today it was quite silly..
On July 01 2013 08:53 sharkie wrote:
On July 01 2013 08:49 Makro wrote: it looks good for bresil for 2014
it did 2010 too, Brazil should have won that WC too, but its football
That team was way to much steel and not very much substance.. so not really. and mad old too..
The most creativity you saw out of them in the knockouts that year came from Felipe Melo.. wheres he now ? lol
Brazil still would have won it if Elano hadnt got that horrible injury.
This is like saying they wouldve won in 98 if Ronaldo wasnt ill.. come on..
I am glad it was anyone but Spain winning this! Helps keep the sport healthy when one team isn't stomping everyone for so long(I know, I know it is only one loss for Spain in a final).
On July 01 2013 09:18 Kralic wrote: I am glad it was anyone but Spain winning this! Helps keep the sport healthy when one team isn't stomping everyone for so long(I know, I know it is only one loss for Spain in a final).
I think the problem is Spain hasnt been "stomping" anyone for a few years now, but because they win so much it irks people.
Theyve been grafting out wins even though teams have a pretty good idea what ruffles them.
I dont believe they've been indisputably better than other teams for a while now (they dont even have world class strikers anymore).
Theyve had a little luck and at times just been barely good enough on the base of one or 2 virtuoso's when its really mattered.
And credit to them for that but these past Euro's were really open heading into them and so is the 2014..
Also about Fred, hes been in and out for a few years now and his purple patch may just be hitting at a bad time because hes really not as good as this tournament is making him look .
He works hard though, but so did the rest of his team..
On June 27 2013 17:29 Twisted wrote: Every team in this competition have looked lackluster, especially compared to Spain. Spain's dominating SO ridiculously hard. I expect an easy stomp vs Italy and an even easier stomp against Brasil.
Luiz is a fucking monster when he doesnt go attacking for no good reason. He is out best CB is he loses his crazyness(the way it is I prefer Thiago Silva over him).
I'm gonna quote Dota 2 Bruno (aka Icefrog ): (in football)"Strong attack win matches, strong defense win championships"
Brazil have very good attackers, strong as Germany or almost as Argentina; but a hell strong defense (S class: Luiz, Silva, Alves, Marcelo, Gustavo). That make them the number one candidate for the WC2014.
Wow wow relax, it was only a Confederations Cup guys... Brazil was heavily criticized before this competition and now they just proved they can perform at a very high level. But that's it, they don't become the favorite after 2-3 good games... As said before, never the winner of the Conf Cup won the Wc afterwards. It's just not the same level. Is it really that Spain we would see in a WC final? I doubt it. Before, everybody saw this Conf Cup as 'too much' after this long season, and we were all expecting boring friendly games. We got lucky, the whole competition was very enjoyable but it doesnt make it more an important title to get...
Imo, the favorites for the tournament next year are Germany (because they are hungry) and Argentina (because they are hungry and used to South American games). After that there is Spain (still very good but starting to feel tired) and Brazil (can be awesome but there will be a huge pressure from the brazilian fans, the medias, etc...)
On July 01 2013 10:55 WillyWanker wrote: Wow wow relax, it was only a Confederations Cup guys... Brazil was heavily criticized before this competition and now they just proved they can perform at a very high level. But that's it, they don't become the favorite after 2-3 good games... As said before, never the winner of the Conf Cup won the Wc afterwards. It's just not the same level. Is it really that Spain we would see in a WC final? I doubt it. Before, everybody saw this Conf Cup as 'too much' after this long season, and we were all expecting boring friendly games. We got lucky, the whole competition was very enjoyable but it doesnt make it more an important title to get...
Imo, the favorites for the tournament next year are Germany (because they are hungry) and Argentina (because they are hungry and used to South American games). After that there is Spain (still very good but starting to feel tired) and Brazil (can be awesome but there will be a huge pressure from the brazilian fans, the medias, etc...)
only a messi fan would rate Argentina over Brazil in a Brazilian home WC
Why are people using some statistic as stupid as "never before the a confed cup champion won the wc"? Never before 58 Brazil had won a WC, same as Argentina in 78, France 98, Spain 2010. I hate journalists stats, they are just stupid. For the first time in the history of mankind Brazil beat Spain in a confed cup final, yay let's put that shit on wikipedia!
Now to the facts about the game: Spain > Brazil, just not today. Brazil wanted it a lot more it seemed and we also got lucky with the timing of the goals. Not easy to play your regular game when you allow a goal in under 2min in the 1st half and then before the 48min mark in the 2nd half.
Being realistic we have chances next year if we play like in the final. I'd say Brazil is one of the top 8 contenders: Spain, Germany, Argentina and then Br, Italy, Netherlands, France, England have about the same chances imo.
On July 01 2013 13:32 Raidern wrote: Why are people using some statistic as stupid as "never before the a confed cup champion won the wc"? Never before 58 Brazil had won a WC, same as Argentina in 78, France 98, Spain 2010. I hate journalists stats, they are just stupid. For the first time in the history of mankind Brazil beat Spain in a confed cup final, yay let's put that shit on wikipedia!
Now to the facts about the game: Spain > Brazil, just not today. Brazil wanted it a lot more it seemed and we also got lucky with the timing of the goals. Not easy to play your regular game when you allow a goal in under 2min in the 1st half and then before the 48min mark in the 2nd half.
Being realistic we have chances next year if we play like in the final. I'd say Brazil is one of the top 8 contenders: Spain, Germany, Argentina and then Br, Italy, Netherlands, France, England have about the same chances imo.
Brazil at home is definitely in the Spain, Germany, Argentina group, not that second group. I would be very surprised if one of those top 4 teams didn't win it though.
I mean their D line is so ridiculously good that they can always play with anyone. David Luiz (who has emerged to be amazing) and Thiago Silva with Dante backing them, and then Dani Alves and Marcelo on the flanks, and Luis Gustavo in front of them, that's just totally stacked.
The depth of that defense is incredible. When players like Rafael (who's pretty much cemented the RB spot at Man Utd this season) aren't even picked for the final 23 squad, you know your team is good.
WOW I hope everyone enjoyed this competition, what a fine display of great attacking football. Goals galore and some sublime individual performances! All capped off with that great final last night. Neymar coming to the stage on the 2nd biggest of them all (a home final in the Maracana) and now Brazil have got some huge pressure to win the world cup next year ^_^ Still they deserve their success they earned after this even so good luck to them in preparations for next summer.
A little note, Del Bosque said before the Italy game that Spain were tired, and "wanted to go home now" due to the end of season fatigue and the heat they were having to deal with. So lets not write Spain off from next year just yet...i for one am going to jump on this opportunity and stick £20 on Spain to win next year due to their odds being increased and Brazil probably pushed to being favorites.
Also for you English...last team to beat Both of those Confederation cup finalists? ENGLAND WOOOO ENGLAND AWESOME XDDDD
On July 01 2013 17:04 Pandemona wrote: WOW I hope everyone enjoyed this competition, what a fine display of great attacking football. Goals galore and some sublime individual performances! All capped off with that great final last night. Neymar coming to the stage on the 2nd biggest of them all (a home final in the Maracana) and now Brazil have got some huge pressure to win the world cup next year ^_^ Still they deserve their success they earned after this even so good luck to them in preparations for next summer.
A little note, Del Bosque said before the Italy game that Spain were tired, and "wanted to go home now" due to the end of season fatigue and the heat they were having to deal with. So lets not write Spain off from next year just yet...i for one am going to jump on this opportunity and stick £20 on Spain to win next year due to their odds being increased and Brazil probably pushed to being favorites.
Also for you English...last team to beat Both of those Confederation cup finalists? ENGLAND WOOOO ENGLAND AWESOME XDDDD
The End of Season Fatigue will still be there next season and they may have injuries on some key players too..The Heat will stay the same..Would be Laughable if Spain came out with the same excuse again.
But the schedule won't be as tight as this one (I hope). If you think about it Italy and Spain had basically a 2 day rest between the overtime semifinal and the finals.
On July 01 2013 17:04 Pandemona wrote: WOW I hope everyone enjoyed this competition, what a fine display of great attacking football. Goals galore and some sublime individual performances! All capped off with that great final last night. Neymar coming to the stage on the 2nd biggest of them all (a home final in the Maracana) and now Brazil have got some huge pressure to win the world cup next year ^_^ Still they deserve their success they earned after this even so good luck to them in preparations for next summer.
A little note, Del Bosque said before the Italy game that Spain were tired, and "wanted to go home now" due to the end of season fatigue and the heat they were having to deal with. So lets not write Spain off from next year just yet...i for one am going to jump on this opportunity and stick £20 on Spain to win next year due to their odds being increased and Brazil probably pushed to being favorites.
Also for you English...last team to beat Both of those Confederation cup finalists? ENGLAND WOOOO ENGLAND AWESOME XDDDD
The End of Season Fatigue will still be there next season and they may have injuries on some key players too..The Heat will stay the same..Would be Laughable if Spain came out with the same excuse again.
Yes but the season always finishes 2-3 weeks before hand in Europe when a world cup starts. For example England domestic finishes May 14th - 24th May Champs league final which will be the last game in Europe i believe and then the World Cup starts 12th June 2014. A full 3 weeks preparation before the tournament begins, and that is if you play in the champs league final. Im sure the 23 players that don't will have another week off before it starts! Thus the Spanish will not be as tired as that, and they will know the conditions better and thus be a better side. Don't forget this Spanish side still arguably is the greatest side we have seen since the Brazil squad of the 80s. Don't be so quick to write them off!
Wow amazing match. Totally didn't expect this result. Spain looked so great in the group matches but it seemed like they forgot how to pass in the knock-out stage :o. It looked like Bayern against Barca. The only player looking inspired to do anything about it was Iniesta. Even Xavi was going on random runs that had zero chance of success when it was 2-0. Arbeloa was piss-poor wow.
Great play by Brazil and they can only get better when their players start playing in Europe next season. It's looking like it's gonna be a great tournament next year. Definitely looking forward to it :D. Paulinho MVP btw in that match. Matches with 2 attacking teams are always the best <3
Spain won't be so tired because Barcelona and Madrid are just going to get knocked out in the quarter finals of the champions league Barcelona are going to keep exhausting Messi on every occasion however leaving him injured for the world cup. Meanwhile Guardiola takes Bayern to the first back to back champions league win ever, leaving many of the German players fatigued.
In the end Spain is still the freshest European side apart from a youthful Dutch side whom surprise everyone by playing fabulous football despite the absence of Robben and Sneijder and knocks them out in the semifinals. In the finals the Netherlands however loses against the hosts Brazil.
It's funny how the English clubs are traditionally good at taking penalties though even when they consisted of mostly English players, but when they play for the National team it all crumbles for some reason.
On July 01 2013 19:06 jim_knopf wrote: @pandemona: do you have the ratings for yesterday's games?
Just updated them sir, being the first of the month i have alot of spreadsheets to do at work thus its a bit later than usual xD All up now
On July 01 2013 19:04 Ysellian wrote: It's funny how the English clubs are traditionally good at taking penalties though even when they consisted of mostly English players, but when they play for the National team it all crumbles for some reason.
On July 01 2013 13:32 Raidern wrote: Being realistic we have chances next year if we play like in the final. I'd say Brazil is one of the top 8 contenders: Spain, Germany, Argentina and then Br, Italy, Netherlands, France, England have about the same chances imo.
same chances as these teams?? really? they are capable of winning, but if Brazil plays like in the final, they are the biggest favorite to win
On July 01 2013 18:32 Ysellian wrote: Spain won't be so tired because Barcelona and Madrid are just going to get knocked out in the quarter finals of the champions league Barcelona are going to keep exhausting Messi on every occasion however leaving him injured for the world cup. Meanwhile Guardiola takes Bayern to the first back to back champions league win ever, leaving many of the German players fatigued.
In the end Spain is still the freshest European side apart from a youthful Dutch side whom surprise everyone by playing fabulous football despite the absence of Robben and Sneijder and knocks them out in the semifinals. In the finals the Netherlands however loses against the hosts Brazil.
I don't think my heart can take another WC finals loss.
I don't want to take away from their accomplishment, because they played great in this tournament, but I want to see Brazil in some more even games. In 3/5 games they got early goals, meaning the other team played nearly the entire game under pressure to attack and equalize, then had the benefits of playing Italy when they were without their midfield general (De Rossi) and got an extra day of rest over Spain.
But great tournament, Spain-Italy was the only draw of the tournament, and we had 68 goals in 16 matches, great attacking football on display!
On July 01 2013 20:26 Ferrose wrote: I don't want to take away from their accomplishment, because they played great in this tournament, but I want to see Brazil in some more even games. In 3/5 games they got early goals, meaning the other team played nearly the entire game under pressure to attack and equalize, then had the benefits of playing Italy when they were without their midfield general (De Rossi) and got an extra day of rest over Spain.
But great tournament, Spain-Italy was the only draw of the tournament, and we had 68 goals in 16 matches, great attacking football on display!
Uruguay vs Italy was a draw too. I enjoyed most of the matches, but I think short rest for the teams led to really subpar performance more than you would see in other tournaments.
On July 01 2013 20:26 Ferrose wrote: I don't want to take away from their accomplishment, because they played great in this tournament, but I want to see Brazil in some more even games. In 3/5 games they got early goals, meaning the other team played nearly the entire game under pressure to attack and equalize, then had the benefits of playing Italy when they were without their midfield general (De Rossi) and got an extra day of rest over Spain.
But great tournament, Spain-Italy was the only draw of the tournament, and we had 68 goals in 16 matches, great attacking football on display!
Uruguay vs Italy was a draw too. I enjoyed most of the matches, but I think short rest for the teams led to really subpar performance more than you would see in other tournaments.
Thanks for pointing that out. I feel silly -_-
Yeah, short rest+heat really took its toll on the players.
I was considering blood sacrifice to get rid of tiki-taka, but I hope this tournament will do. Both Brazil and Italy destroyed it. Please let it be gone and never come back.
I liked the Italy vs Uruguay game the most for the bronze medal. Both teams gave it their all for the most part and there were some sublime free kicks scored.
EPT
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