1 GK Joe Hart - Manchester City 2 DF Glen Johnson - Liverpool 3 DF Ashley Cole - Chelsea 4 MF Steven Gerrard (c) - Liverpool 5 DF Martin Kelly - Liverpool 6 DF John Terry - Chelsea 7 MF Theo Walcott - Arsenal 8 MF Jordan Henderson - Liverpool 9 FW Andy Carroll - Liverpool 10 FW Wayne Rooney - Manchester United 11 MF Ashley Young - Manchester United 12 DF Leighton Baines - Everton 13 GK Robert Green - West Ham United 14 DF Phil Jones - Manchester United 15 DF Joleon Lescott - Manchester City 16 MF James Milner - Manchester City 17 MF Scott Parker - Tottenham Hotspur 18 DF Phil Jagielka - Everton 19 MF Stewart Downing - Liverpool 20 MF Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - Arsenal 21 FW Jermain Defoe - Tottenham Hotspur 22 FW Danny Welbeck - Manchester United 23 GK Jack Butland - Birmingham City
Coach: Roy Hodgson Roy Hodgson announced England's 23-man squad on 16 May 2012, along with a five-man stand-by list. The England team is the only squad to consist entirely of players from their domestic league. On 25 May, John Ruddy was ruled out with a broken finger; Jack Butland was called up as his replacement. On 28 May, Gareth Barry was ruled out with a groin injury, being replaced by Phil Jagielka. On 31 May, Frank Lampard was ruled out with a thigh injury and was replaced by Jordan Henderson. On 3 June, Gary Cahill was ruled out with a double fracture of his jaw and Martin Kelly was called up as his replacement.
England likely to go with the same line up that started vs Ukraine, Rooney back with Welbeck as the main striker.
1 GK Gianluigi Buffon (c) - Juventus 2 DF Christian Maggio - Napoli 3 DF Giorgio Chiellini - Juventus 4 DF Angelo Ogbonna - Torino 5 MF Thiago Motta - Paris Saint-Germain 6 DF Federico Balzaretti - Palermo 7 DF Ignazio Abate - Milan 8 MF Claudio Marchisio - Juventus 9 FW Mario Balotelli - Manchester City 10 FW Antonio Cassano - Milan 11 FW Antonio Di Natale - Udinese 12 GK Salvatore Sirigu - Paris Saint-Germain 13 MF Emanuele Giaccherini - Juventus 14 GK Morgan De Sanctis - Napoli 15 DF Andrea Barzagli - Juventus 16 MF Daniele De Rossi - Roma 17 FW Fabio Borini - Roma 18 MF Riccardo Montolivo - Fiorentina 19 DF Leonardo Bonucci - Juventus 20 FW Sebastian Giovinco - Parma 21 MF Andrea Pirlo - Juventus 22 MF Alessandro Diamanti - Bologna 23 MF Antonio Nocerino - Milan
Coach: Cesare Prandelli Cesare Prandelli named a provisional 32-man squad on 13 May 2012, the final day of the 2011–12 Serie A season. On 29 May 2012, Prandelli announced his final squad list, with defender Domenico Criscito not considered due to match-fixing charges.
Italy's Chiellini is a major doubt for this game with a hamstring injury and Bonucci looks set to deputise.
I honestly can't see how england can win this. The italians neither have the best players in europe like spain nor an upcoming squad like the germans. They never had the top squad tbh, yet somehow they have 4 world cups. They are winners, which is the complete opposite from the english tradition. I predict a 1-0 for them.
According to the bookmakers, this is pretty much a coinflip. Hoping for overtime and possibly a penalty shootout of 2 of the worst penalty-shootout-nations (historically, though the italians improved recently).
I dont know who's gonna win this one, England got really good def they're hard to score against, but so is Italy, so I dont might be a great match, or might be a really boring match. But I sure hope that England wins!
Italy are the better team right now, but I can't rule out this England squad - they know they're not the best team in it but they will keep fighting for the win. Plus I just watched this:
England to win 2-0, an early goal and a very late one with Italy to dominate possession and shots.
Also BBC has England to name an unchanged side, while Italy have only changed Chiellini for Bonucci so far.
I'm just hoping for a good game after the snorefest yesterday. Many Germans I know are hoping for England to advance, because they would rather face them instead of Italy in the semis. If you look at our history vs both teams they may have a point, but if England manages to beat Italy, they will be a tough opponent to beat so I'm undecided. I always liked the English team so I'm going to cheer for them nevertheless. Italy is the slight favorite in this matchup though, therefore I'm predicting a 1-0 win for Italy.
Just gonna mention the players that will miss the semifinal if they get another yellow (it's quite a list): England: Gerrard, Milner, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Cole, Walcott. Italy: Buffon, Balzaretti, Bonucci, Chielli, Maggio, De Rossi, Montolivo, Motta, Balotelli.
I would be very surprised if neither of those would be missing in the semifinal. Can't imagine a peaceful game with so much at stake and Rooney and Balotelli playing.
Want England to win - Germany should do better against them, and my Fantasy Teams has too many english guys to lose! On the other hand, Italy getting through after a cardfest would probably be even better for us :D
On June 25 2012 00:44 NIIINO wrote: I have so many bets on England taking this one it would be really bad for my vallet if Italy wins. England wins / 3+ goals and Im happy
I hope you are joking lol otherwise your wallet is really going to suffer. England winning is conceivable but hard...winning by 3+ goals? lol wtf? Or is it 3+ goals in the game? Either way, more than three goals in a game like this is pretty hard to happen, even more if you're expecting England to win =/
Good luck either way
Im just hoping for a good game. Something that is lacking lately.
On June 25 2012 00:44 NIIINO wrote: I have so many bets on England taking this one it would be really bad for my vallet if Italy wins. England wins / 3+ goals and Im happy
lol... I really wanted to make a bet on England but my brain won't let me do it
On June 25 2012 00:44 NIIINO wrote: I have so many bets on England taking this one it would be really bad for my vallet if Italy wins. England wins / 3+ goals and Im happy
lol... I really wanted to make a bet on England but my brain won't let me do it
well I certainly wouldn't recommend doing a bet like that, that's for sure
The 22 previous meetings have produced nine wins for Italy, seven for England and six draws.
The Azzurri have the edge in recent history - they have lost just once against the Three Lions in 35 years (W6, D2, L1).
Their only loss in that time was a 2-0 reverse at Le Tournoi in Nantes in 1997, when Ian Wright and Paul Scholes got the goals.
Italy won the two previous meetings at major tournaments; Marco Tardelli got the only goal in Turin to give the hosts victory in a group game at the European Championship in 1980. And Italy beat England 2-1 in the third-place play-off at the 1990 World Cup, with goals from Roberto Baggio and Toto Schillachi. David Platt got England's reply in Bari.
Italy won the last meeting, at Elland Road in March 2002. Robbie Fowler put England ahead before Vincenzo Montella netted twice. Gianluigi Buffon is the only survivor from that game.
I think England have to step up their game big time, but if Steven Gerrard plays like he has played so far anything is possible! This will be a close one, I give the edge to Italy simply because I think they are more comfortable with the very likely extra time and possibly penalties.
On June 24 2012 22:42 Mafe wrote: According to the bookmakers, this is pretty much a coinflip. Hoping for overtime and possibly a penalty shootout of 2 of the worst penalty-shootout-nations (historically, though the italians improved recently).
Im inclined to agree with them. I really really have no idea how this game is going to turn out. We know how the teams are going to play but itll be interesting to see how they matchup.
On June 25 2012 03:42 Holgerius wrote: All the quarter-finals have been kinda boring thus far, hopefully this one will deliver. I'm really pumped.
You have no idea. If you thought the other quarterfinals were boring you don't know what will hit you today. Kick and Rush against Catenaccio. NOTHING will happen. Better get your coffee ready.
On June 25 2012 03:50 On_Slaught wrote: How do you miss a shot at that range England >.<
It got stuck in his feet. Digging it out he didnt get enough power.
And he didnt miss, it was a pretty good save. He did pretty well to get it off. And Johnson has a pretty good finish I dont know what all this "if he was a defender" is all about. When he misses a chance hes a defender, when he does poor defensively hes just good going forward.. I dont even know anymore.
He can finish better than Torress not that thats saying something.
watching the replays if glen johnsons wasnt a defender that would of been eithier side of buffon forcing a save which could of gone anywhere if not in...
On June 25 2012 03:42 Holgerius wrote: All the quarter-finals have been kinda boring thus far, hopefully this one will deliver. I'm really pumped.
You have no idea. If you thought the other quarterfinals were boring you don't know what will hit you today. Kick and Rush against Catenaccio. NOTHING will happen. Better get your coffee ready.
LOLOL! Couldn't be more wrong. :D So much action already.
Sick shot by GranDe Rossi, but that save by Buffon is one of the highlights of the entire tournament. :O So insanely impressive. Best goalkeeper in the world for sure.
On June 25 2012 04:00 Badfatpanda wrote: Jesus, you get a fucking cross like that and blow a header over the net, come the fuck on Rooney. It's sad England has to rely on him so much.
I don't think we rely on him that much, it's not like he's knocking in goals for fun like he does for United.
On June 25 2012 03:42 Holgerius wrote: All the quarter-finals have been kinda boring thus far, hopefully this one will deliver. I'm really pumped.
You have no idea. If you thought the other quarterfinals were boring you don't know what will hit you today. Kick and Rush against Catenaccio. NOTHING will happen. Better get your coffee ready.
LOLOL! Couldn't be more wrong. :D So much action already.
Sick shot by GranDe Rossi, but that save by Buffon is one of the highlights of the entire tournament. :O So insanely impressive. Best goalkeeper in the world for sure.
Yeah, I am very disappointed. No idea why there are so many scoring chances, hope the defenders will get stronger with time and the teams stop attacking.
Don't know which game you're watching, no team is "dominating" or "outplaying" on my screen. Pretty back and forth, with Italy having a little more possession right now.
okay i found one u guys give me the rigth idea with tv chanels here is an other one (its slovakian ofc) http://futbal.stv.sk/live?channel=1 and thanks for the idea
Rooney is running lots, seeming more like a playmaker than a striker from time to time. On the other side, Montolivo and Cassano enjoy most possession, with Montolivo going for passes, while Cassano takes lots of shots.
On June 25 2012 04:11 skrzmark wrote: God, I hate this Steve McManaman commentator.
Whats wrong with McManaman ? Hes not great but hes not terrible and Ian Darke is pretty good.
Italy getting a fair bit of control now, was wondering if England could keep it up..
He's not good with Ian Darke. He says every opportunity is "easy"
Its just a stock phrase and tbh, he hasnt said a thing wrong. He literally called the Montolivo pass a second before he made it. I dont care as long as the footballing IQ is fine. Ane hes pretty intelligent, but yeah hes not the most aesthetically pleasing commentator like Darke is and he doesnt have to be hes not doing the play by play.
On June 25 2012 04:25 AgentChaos wrote: this bias commentary is killing me rooney hanging back, rooney this rooney that...
Yeah it's horrible. Rooney is one of he most overrated players in world football.
I think he's the premier overrated footballer in the world, especially on BBC casts lol. I really hope that Balotelli gets subbed, Cassano isn't really making plays happen but at least he's not missing shots.
edit: In national cups* For some reason he can own up the season when he plays for Man U lol
Tch, fucking England play a 10-15 min spell and then just start dropping. I was worried they wouldnt be able to maintain it. Everytime the other team strings a few passes together or makes a few moves its like the fucking bat signal to start dropping deeper and deeper.
Italy controlled most of that half. So it really did boil down like some people predicted.
On June 25 2012 04:25 AgentChaos wrote: this bias commentary is killing me rooney hanging back, rooney this rooney that...
Yeah it's horrible. Rooney is one of he most overrated players in world football.
not actually true... but still....his cross just now points more toyour opinion then mine!
Ok maybe I'm a little harsh, the red top papers and football commentators do overrate him though. He isn't 'world class'.
to be far I think England commentators do that about all England players..cant wait to see what the guys in the studio say now.. how about England totally dominatinating.. some crap like that...
On June 25 2012 04:32 HaXXspetten wrote: Very good game despite being goalless thus far. Italy probably more so deserving the win as of yet, but we'll see ^^
Yeah I agree. Both sides are defending well (as expected) but Italy look slightly more dangerous going forward. Balotelli just beginning to heat up whilst Rooney looks in average form and Welbeck has not threatened at all so far.
Substitutions will make a big impact on this game I reckon.
[QUOTE]On June 25 2012 04:33 Badfatpanda wrote: [QUOTE]On June 25 2012 04:31 skrzmark wrote: Italia's goalkeeper looks funny Haha. How old is he?[/QUOTE]
mid 30's I think he's 34/35, I love watching him play though, when Italy loses him it'll be a sad day.
[QUOTE]On June 25 2012 04:47 GarethGore wrote: [QUOTE]On June 25 2012 04:33 Badfatpanda wrote: [QUOTE]On June 25 2012 04:31 skrzmark wrote: Italia's goalkeeper looks funny Haha. How old is he?[/QUOTE]
mid 30's I think he's 34/35, I love watching him play though, when Italy loses him it'll be a sad day.
On June 25 2012 04:53 Badfatpanda wrote: The ESPN commentator just said "and somehow England survive again". Probably should be "and somehow Balotelli chokes again"
On June 25 2012 04:53 Badfatpanda wrote: The ESPN commentator just said "and somehow England survive again". Probably should be "and somehow Balotelli chokes again"
On June 25 2012 04:51 Steveling wrote: Pirlo is such class. Ballon d'or quality even though he didn't get any.
Good yes but thats an exaggeration. There have always been several better players in the world all through his career.
You are unfair. For example iniesta and xavi will never get a ballon as long as messi and cristiano are playing but you would be extremely harsh if you'd said that they are not of such quality.
On June 25 2012 04:51 Steveling wrote: Pirlo is such class. Ballon d'or quality even though he didn't get any.
im not sure why england are not trying to man mark him out the game...He always seems to be on his own.
Becuase theyve got it stuck in their head that dropping in and around the 18 is the way to go Dont pressure at all up front. Its so infuriating. Its not even like its worked, Italy have still had chances they just havent taken them.
On June 25 2012 05:07 GTR wrote: I can hear John Motson in the background of the BBC feed =[
On June 25 2012 05:23 NuclearJudas wrote: So much shirt-pulling. Could as well have been a penalty.
Referees (sadly) almost never penalize shirt-pulling in the penalty area unless a clear chance is wasted. It's one of these assumptions that minor fouls are not '"worthy" of a penalty.
On June 25 2012 05:22 NuclearJudas wrote: Yes it was. Studs first.
My god, we should just stop tackling in this game. Everytime anyone sees even a glimpse of a stud, they cry yellow. its a contact sport, hes high on the ball at best. The studs arent even high they are just showing, ok leading with it is dangerous play, its not two footed and he gets all ball. Maybe a foul but certainly not a card. If your not even going to give margin for that kind of tackle I dont know what anyone can do.
On June 25 2012 05:23 Eire_91 wrote: How is this still 0-0 omg?
The English throw themselves in every shoot and the Italian are choking big time in the offense. I don´t understand why Di Natale isn´t on the pitch yet.
On June 25 2012 05:24 GTR wrote: these assistant referees are so fucking useless
I actually think they're not allowed to make any decisions, other than whether the ball crosses the goal-line or not, if their view is not blocked by the post that is.
On June 25 2012 05:22 NuclearJudas wrote: Yes it was. Studs first.
My god, we should just stop tackling in this game. Everytime anyone sees even a glimpse of a stud, they cry yellow. its a contact sport, hes high on the ball at best. The studs arent even high they are just showing, ok leading with it is dangerous play, its not two footed and he gets all ball. Maybe a foul but certainly not a card. If your not even going to give margin for that kind of tackle I dont know what anyone can do.
Just calling it the way the rules state. I agree that there's too much silly stuff resulting in free kicks nowadays.
On June 25 2012 05:24 GTR wrote: these assistant referees are so fucking useless
I actually think they're not allowed to make any decisions, other than whether the ball crosses the goal-line or not, if their view is not blocked by the post that is.
think its a joke really.. not saying England are innocent but Italy are doing it EVERYtime to like 3-4 players every set piece.
On June 25 2012 05:22 NuclearJudas wrote: Yes it was. Studs first.
My god, we should just stop tackling in this game. Everytime anyone sees even a glimpse of a stud, they cry yellow. its a contact sport, hes high on the ball at best. The studs arent even high they are just showing, ok leading with it is dangerous play, its not two footed and he gets all ball. Maybe a foul but certainly not a card. If your not even going to give margin for that kind of tackle I dont know what anyone can do.
Just calling it the way the rules state. I agree that there's too much silly stuff resulting in free kicks nowadays.
I do not believe there is actually a rule that explicitly states you cant tackle studs showing. Its the dangerous play laws interpreted by the ref that comes into it and has just become fashionable and to be fair its a good thing, dont want people getting hurt. Thats why you can have tackles get all ball and still be penalized. But still that doesnt automatically make everytime you see a stud a foul imo.
On June 25 2012 05:22 NuclearJudas wrote: Yes it was. Studs first.
My god, we should just stop tackling in this game. Everytime anyone sees even a glimpse of a stud, they cry yellow. its a contact sport, hes high on the ball at best. The studs arent even high they are just showing, ok leading with it is dangerous play, its not two footed and he gets all ball. Maybe a foul but certainly not a card. If your not even going to give margin for that kind of tackle I dont know what anyone can do.
Just calling it the way the rules state. I agree that there's too much silly stuff resulting in free kicks nowadays.
I do not believe there is actually a rule that explicitly states you cant tackle studs showing. Its the dangerous play laws interpreted by the ref that comes into it. Thats why you can have tackles get all ball and still be penalized.
Dunno, feels like it's a rule nowadays at least. Almost every time a player goes in studs first there's a yellow shown.
On June 25 2012 05:33 Sphaero wrote: Wait, that was the last player switch Italy had, right? That means Balotelli is allowed to play the whole game. ROFL.
On June 25 2012 05:22 NuclearJudas wrote: Yes it was. Studs first.
My god, we should just stop tackling in this game. Everytime anyone sees even a glimpse of a stud, they cry yellow. its a contact sport, hes high on the ball at best. The studs arent even high they are just showing, ok leading with it is dangerous play, its not two footed and he gets all ball. Maybe a foul but certainly not a card. If your not even going to give margin for that kind of tackle I dont know what anyone can do.
Just calling it the way the rules state. I agree that there's too much silly stuff resulting in free kicks nowadays.
I do not believe there is actually a rule that explicitly states you cant tackle studs showing. Its the dangerous play laws interpreted by the ref that comes into it. Thats why you can have tackles get all ball and still be penalized.
Dunno, feels like it's a rule nowadays at least. Almost every time a player goes in studs first there's a yellow shown.
Lol imagine that bicacleta going in.
Well regardless im pretty sure thats not what the "rules state". They are actually very flexible and leave most of the interpretation to the ref which is good, but then you get alot of controversy.
On June 25 2012 05:36 Malinor wrote: Two days less rest, plus extra-time. Doesn't look too bad for Germany in the semis.
penatlies too will add a further 10-15minutes of being on their feet haha. Shocking that germany have a extra 2 days isnt it? SShouldof played both quarters on same day!
On June 25 2012 05:36 Malinor wrote: Two days less rest, plus extra-time. Doesn't look too bad for Germany in the semis.
penatlies too will add a further 10-15minutes of being on their feet haha. Shocking that germany have a extra 2 days isnt it? SShouldof played both quarters on same day!
Playing on the same day means less TV revenue. Should have played quarterfinals leading to the same semi on consecutive days, though.
On June 25 2012 05:36 Malinor wrote: Two days less rest, plus extra-time. Doesn't look too bad for Germany in the semis.
penatlies too will add a further 10-15minutes of being on their feet haha. Shocking that germany have a extra 2 days isnt it? SShouldof played both quarters on same day!
They just found a way to stretch the schedule out more and have less days in between without football. I also cannot understand why they don't use the two quarterfinals in one day approach. This way it just seems unfair.
It's been awhile since we saw Italy have more than 35+ attempts at goal aye? Would be funny if England gets through.. I hope Italy advances, England is chanceless vs Germany.. Italy on the otherhand is a cupteam like Germany, you never know!
On June 25 2012 05:40 ibo422 wrote: It's been awhile since we saw Italy have more than 35+ attempts at goal aye? Would be funny if England gets through.. I hope Italy advances, England is chanceless vs Germany.. Italy on the otherhand is a cupteam like Germany, you never know!
I'm not so sure, England is very dangerous on the counter and i fear Germany is less stable than Italy in the defence.
On June 25 2012 05:40 ibo422 wrote: It's been awhile since we saw Italy have more than 35+ attempts at goal aye? Would be funny if England gets through.. I hope Italy advances, England is chanceless vs Germany.. Italy on the otherhand is a cupteam like Germany, you never know!
I'm not so sure, England is very dangerous on the counter and i fear Germany is less stable than Italy in the defence.
On June 25 2012 05:40 ibo422 wrote: It's been awhile since we saw Italy have more than 35+ attempts at goal aye? Would be funny if England gets through.. I hope Italy advances, England is chanceless vs Germany.. Italy on the otherhand is a cupteam like Germany, you never know!
I'm not so sure, England is very dangerous on the counter and i fear Germany is less stable than Italy in the defence.
Really? Germany would destroy this English side.
any other team in this competition could destory England
On June 25 2012 05:40 ibo422 wrote: It's been awhile since we saw Italy have more than 35+ attempts at goal aye? Would be funny if England gets through.. I hope Italy advances, England is chanceless vs Germany.. Italy on the otherhand is a cupteam like Germany, you never know!
I'm not so sure, England is very dangerous on the counter and i fear Germany is less stable than Italy in the defence.
Really? Germany would destroy this English side.
Yeah Germany doesnt miss those chances Italy missed today.
LOL, I can seriously only laugh at this now, why on Earth do you decide to keep Balotelli in this game, it wasn't the greatest pass but still ffs stay on your feet.
edit: Here Hart, you in position? KK lemme try and hit you.
Actually don't think Rooney is going to take one - he looks dead on his feet. Gerrard, too, but he's captain. Walcott seems to be an option, at least he should still be decently awake.
On June 25 2012 06:05 DragoonTT wrote: Actually don't think Rooney is going to take one - he looks dead on his feet. Gerrard, too, but he's captain. Walcott seems to be an option, at least he should still be decently awake.
On June 25 2012 06:14 WArped wrote: The Germans are laughing at this shit
Dude the german commentator flames all keepers prior to hart and says "now they might even win a penalty shootout with a real Keeper and no clown anymore :D
On June 25 2012 06:24 Logros wrote: So bad. But you don't beat Italy on penalties.
Actually, Italy's history with penalties isn't that great, only recently got better. England sucks at penalties, though
Yea infact its only really been decent this past decade your right. They've had a fair bit of misery before that aswell. Although to be perfectly honest I dont think it matters much.
On June 25 2012 06:24 Logros wrote: So bad. But you don't beat Italy on penalties.
Actually, Italy's history with penalties isn't that great, only recently got better. England sucks at penalties, though
Yea infact its only really been decent this past decade your right. They've had a fair bit of misery before that aswell. Although to be perfectly honest I dont think it matters much.
On June 25 2012 06:24 Logros wrote: So bad. But you don't beat Italy on penalties.
Actually, Italy's history with penalties isn't that great, only recently got better. England sucks at penalties, though
Yea infact its only really been decent this past decade your right. They've had a fair bit of misery before that aswell. Although to be perfectly honest I dont think it matters much.
Roberto Baggio anyone?xD
I still remember that like it was yesterday. Hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time.
On June 25 2012 06:24 Logros wrote: So bad. But you don't beat Italy on penalties.
Actually, Italy's history with penalties isn't that great, only recently got better. England sucks at penalties, though
Yea infact its only really been decent this past decade your right. They've had a fair bit of misery before that aswell. Although to be perfectly honest I dont think it matters much.
Nah, just gives us fans something to talk (taunt!) about. GG Italy, hoping for a good (read: onesided for us) match next week.
On June 25 2012 06:26 CeriseCherries wrote: honestly if england won after all that shit i would have been pretty pissed
that being said i dont think italy has much of a chance to beat germany -_-
well, sadly germany has a very bad record against italy. But this victory was well deserved and as a football-fan I'm glad, england didn't win with this style.
On June 25 2012 06:27 Crais wrote: fuck fuck fuck. Ashley cole what the shit
If you look closely. Diamanti literally hit the same pen for the win just to the opposite side. Buffon guessed right, Hart didnt.
As for Youngs pen, tbh they always tell you if your not confident just blast it and let instinct take over. Thats literally what they teach you growing up. He was a bit unlucky but it sums up his tournament he really has been bad.
Ridic good game by Italy and deserved win. Pirlo what a monster. Balotelli on the other hand is so terribad, watching him failing wearing the blue shirt makes me think of a black Torres xD
Definitely the best match of the tourney so far. Italy had a ton of chances and most of the ball but England hung in and fought valiantly..... that floater by Pirlo was just pure quality.
On June 25 2012 06:28 Retric wrote: so pathetic england played for the draw from the beginning on, 2 shots on target, italy had like 15. thank you italy !
Nah, England had some really good chances to finish Italy off as well. Pirlo is such a boss in this game. Italy deserve the win but good play by England as well.
On June 25 2012 06:28 Retric wrote: so pathetic england played for the draw from the beginning on, 2 shots on target, italy had like 15. thank you italy !
Nah, England had some really good chances to finish Italy off as well. Pirlo is such a boss in this game. Italy deserve the win but good play by England as well.
Also, Congrats GERMANY for making the FINAL
Absolutely not a given but Germany has a massive advantage no doubt.
On June 25 2012 06:26 Release wrote: Pirlo so cheeky.
I really think he was the MVP for the match, his play was so solid throughout the whole game, connecting passes and setting up for Balotelli to fall on his face.
I have no idea btw why you guys think italy will just roll over for the germans to advance. I think they are stronger than the germans. Pirlo is pirlo, modolivo will give ozil a run for his money, the defenders are great, buffon is buffon and well balotelli needs to get benched or germany will win, I give you that. lol
On June 25 2012 06:26 Release wrote: Pirlo so cheeky.
I really think he was the MVP for the match, his play was so solid throughout the whole game, connecting passes and setting up for Balotelli to fall on his face.
Pirlo is the difference between the two teams(not talking about the PK shootout) If Parker can connect to Wallcot half as well, England may have some more chances in the 2nd half.
On June 25 2012 06:26 Release wrote: Pirlo so cheeky.
I really think he was the MVP for the match, his play was so solid throughout the whole game, connecting passes and setting up for Balotelli to fall on his face.
The amount of space we left him was outrageous, a player like Pirlo would be the best player on the pitch with that much space. Him and Balotelli are the real quality players, the rest not so much, and we got rocked by them today. It just proves and highlights how bad we are technically compared to the top teams in Europe.
On June 25 2012 06:35 Steveling wrote: I have no idea btw why you guys think italy will just roll over for the germans to advance. I think they are stronger than the germans. Pirlo is pirlo, modolivo will give ozil a run for his money, the defenders are great, buffon is buffon and well balotelli needs to get benched or germany will win, I give you that. lol
agree with this, its funny how everyone is saying germany is going to rape italy remember 2006?
On June 25 2012 06:35 Steveling wrote: I have no idea btw why you guys think italy will just roll over for the germans to advance. I think they are stronger than the germans. Pirlo is pirlo, modolivo will give ozil a run for his money, the defenders are great, buffon is buffon and well balotelli needs to get benched or germany will win, I give you that. lol
Yo, Germany has 2 DAYS more to rest and they played an easiest 90 mins in the QF while Italy has less 2 days to rest and played the full 120 mins. That alone gonna make so much difference, not to mention the fact that German players are just better than Italy atm.
On June 25 2012 06:26 Release wrote: Pirlo so cheeky.
I really think he was the MVP for the match, his play was so solid throughout the whole game, connecting passes and setting up for Balotelli to fall on his face.
The amount of space we left him was outrageous, a player like Pirlo would be the best player on the pitch with that much space. Him and Balotelli are the real quality players, the rest not so much, and we got rocked by them today. It just proves and highlights how bad we are technically compared to the top teams in Europe.
I have to agree as good as Pirlo was today he got the whole pitch to work with up until 25 yards out.
I dont agree England are technically weaker. Atleast not as weak as they are showing. They had a great spell early on and the whole time I was like please dont chicken out and start absorbing if they get a whiff at goal and thats exactly what they did. Part of it is Hodgson sure but this lack of belief both from France and England, is really depressing. The media will toast you regardless. Might aswell try to play some football and show you can.
On June 25 2012 06:35 Steveling wrote: I have no idea btw why you guys think italy will just roll over for the germans to advance. I think they are stronger than the germans. Pirlo is pirlo, modolivo will give ozil a run for his money, the defenders are great, buffon is buffon and well balotelli needs to get benched or germany will win, I give you that. lol
agree with this, its funny how everyone is saying germany is going to rape italy remember 2006?
Noone was saying Germany is going to rape Italy back in 2006. Germany was a big doubt in 2006 since they played like shit in 2004. Only after the group stage with phenomenal play they were on the radar again but absolutely not favourite against Italy at that time.
On June 25 2012 06:39 Jepsyn wrote: Why is anyone criticizing Balotelli he has been playing amazingly
I thought he had a good match too, a bit unlucky but he made some devastating runs and played a tone better than England's attacking players. The best part about him so far is he's still eligible to play, no red card yet.
On June 25 2012 06:35 Steveling wrote: I have no idea btw why you guys think italy will just roll over for the germans to advance. I think they are stronger than the germans. Pirlo is pirlo, modolivo will give ozil a run for his money, the defenders are great, buffon is buffon and well balotelli needs to get benched or germany will win, I give you that. lol
Yo, Germany has 2 DAYS more to rest and they played an easiest 90 mins in the QF while Italy has less 2 days to rest and played the full 120 mins. That alone gonna make so much difference, not to mention the fact that German players are just better than Italy atm.
Italy is very scary. Against Spain we saw they can adjust, pirlo is a genius - maybe the best at his position, i think very highly of balotelli and cassano.. yeah im scared, wont bet on this one
On June 25 2012 06:50 tenacity wrote: that has been the best match so far. I was really impressed by italy's performance. ger vs italy will be an amazing match.
You think so? I couldnt watch the first 45 minutes ut during the second halftime it got just boring to me. England was just bunkering the whole time and didnt do any attempt to win the game
On June 25 2012 06:50 tenacity wrote: that has been the best match so far. I was really impressed by italy's performance. ger vs italy will be an amazing match.
You think so? I couldnt watch the first 45 minutes ut during the second halftime it got just boring to me. England was just bunkering the whole time and didnt do any attempt to win the game
Not true, they just miserably failed to make attacks. They did try, they just suck. Andy Carroll especially. We just need a good straight out and out striker, we have needed a good one for ages. Rooney needs a quality strike partner.
On June 25 2012 06:39 Jepsyn wrote: Why is anyone criticizing Balotelli he has been playing amazingly
Because he had 5 or 6 huge chances and failed miserably every time? He is a striker and strikers are normally measured by goals.
If I´m honest, this game didn´t install any fear for my team against Italy. They completely dominated the game and couldn´t even score once. On the contrary, England actually had a couple of opportunities themselves.
While the English defense fought bravely, they ultimately gave Italy more chances to score than the German did in all their games combined. If Balotelli will play (which I hope), I´m confident, that he will be shut down by our defense around the best performing defender in this tournament, Mats Hummels.
Buffon is still a beast and in great shape, but so is Neuer, who I would rate as highly as Buffon.
The midfield is clearly in Germany´s favor, especially in the breadth. Our Bench is downright scary. Players like Reus, Kroos, Götze, Bender would start in nearly any other team in this competition. This is also the biggest difference between now and 2006.
Our striker have a good efficiency, be it either the strong performing Gomez or the extreme experienced Klose.
On top of that comes the advantage of the physical condition. Doesn´t help that the German team is way younger, but also highly experienced.
Nobody in their right mind will see this game as a walk in the park. Italy was never an easy opponent and probably will never be one. But we still are the favorite, because we are frankly the stronger team with more rest.
On June 25 2012 06:50 tenacity wrote: that has been the best match so far. I was really impressed by italy's performance. ger vs italy will be an amazing match.
You think so? I couldnt watch the first 45 minutes ut during the second halftime it got just boring to me. England was just bunkering the whole time and didnt do any attempt to win the game
Not true, they just miserably failed to make attacks. They did try, they just suck. Andy Carroll especially. We just need a good straight out and out striker, we have needed a good one for ages. Rooney needs a quality strike partner.
The team had WAY too many weak links. Glen Johnson, all the ManU players played terribly. I'm reluctant to call Rooney average due to past performances in the EPL but he looked very average tonight.
Alan Hansen said it right. The game was embarrassing come the end, England had literally nothing. The loss on penalties was a mercy. Better that than getting absolutely slaughtered by Germany.
Italy will give Germany a run for their money both teams are amazing tournament teams and both come from games where they have been the better teams. Germany might have a selection dilemma as Klose scored against Greece (although I still think Gomez should be prioritised). The Italians have rallied together impressively despite all the scandals, and Germany didn't look super strong against a very weak Greece. Actually going out on a limb and predicting a win for Italy. Forza forza!
On June 25 2012 06:39 Jepsyn wrote: Why is anyone criticizing Balotelli he has been playing amazingly
Because he had 5 or 6 huge chances and failed miserably every time? He is a striker and strikers are normally measured by goals.
If I´m honest, this game didn´t install any fear for my team against Italy. They completely dominated the game and couldn´t even score once. On the contrary, England actually had a couple of opportunities themselves.
While the English defense fought bravely, they ultimately gave Italy more chances to score than the German did in all their games combined. If Balotelli will play (which I hope), I´m confident, that he will be shut down by our defense around the best performing defender in this tournament, Mats Hummels.
Buffon is still a beast and in great shape, but so is Neuer, who I would rate as highly as Buffon.
The midfield is clearly in Germany´s favor, especially in the breadth. Our Bench is downright scary. Players like Reus, Kroos, Götze, Bender would start in nearly any other team in this competition. This is also the biggest difference between now and 2006.
Our striker have a good efficiency, be it either the strong performing Gomez or the extreme experienced Klose.
On top of that comes the advantage of the physical condition. Doesn´t help that the German team is way younger, but also highly experienced.
Nobody in their right mind will see this game as a walk in the park. Italy was never an easy opponent and probably will never be one. But we still are the favorite, because we are frankly the stronger team with more rest.
On June 25 2012 06:43 Ysellian wrote: We got the four best footballing sides in the Semi's IMO I just hope Italy isn't as tired as they look and Portugal don't play cowardly.
I agree, the 4 best teams have made it through. Now the real fun begins
On June 25 2012 06:50 tenacity wrote: that has been the best match so far. I was really impressed by italy's performance. ger vs italy will be an amazing match.
You think so? I couldnt watch the first 45 minutes ut during the second halftime it got just boring to me. England was just bunkering the whole time and didnt do any attempt to win the game
Not true, they just miserably failed to make attacks. They did try, they just suck. Andy Carroll especially. We just need a good straight out and out striker, we have needed a good one for ages. Rooney needs a quality strike partner.
The team had WAY too many weak links. Glen Johnson, all the ManU players played terribly. I'm reluctant to call Rooney average due to past performances in the EPL but he looked very average tonight.
Alan Hansen said it right. The game was embarrassing come the end, England had literally nothing. The loss on penalties was a mercy. Better that than getting absolutely slaughtered by Germany.
welbeck playedwell? rooney looked unfit.. and the attacking players, young rooney etc had no support from the midfield.. he blasts past 2 down the wing and then what? nobody within 40 yards.. the midfield was shocking.. really awful awful play from gerrard and parker.. your meant to support your forwards and get up with them.. thats why we lost the ball so much simply because we didnt have ANYBODY to pass to.. hell drop welbeck and play 5 in midfield just so we have some support.. i was shocked to see rooney in our half way line just to pick the ball up because parker and gerrrard were sitting 2 deep.. awful awful play.
edit..
what makes it worse is they just STOOD off the italians, didnt pressure the ball didnt make any attempt to win it back and in the end it was only decent play from terry and lescot that we did get the ball back.. when did we win it in midfield and attack? WHEN? never.. we need midfielders who know how to control the play.. i hope carrrick makes himself available for the next tournament and we drop the whole stupid idea of defensive midfields.. if you want a defensive midfielder just play 5 at the back for fuck sake.
Who has best midfield? Who can do what Pirlo did to arrogant smily and tongue showing Hart on penalty? Now I remember how brazilian Ronaldo did same penalty shot magic long long time ago... Not the best game but TWO posts - if Germany had 2 posts it's 2-2 with Greece just imagine the shitstorm etc - football is a sport where everything is possible. Italy did lose on penalties to Spain last time and I bet they wanna rematch! Italy had a nice group game against Spain which eneded 1-1 and after that there is no team in the World which is favorite against Italy - simple as that cuz Spain are current best! Great game and best semis so far emotionally I got entertained more than all the games combined before this one.
On June 25 2012 07:41 Hazzyboy wrote: Who has best midfield? Who can do what Pirlo did to arrogant smily and tongue showing Hart on penalty? Not the best game but TWO posts - if Germany had 2 posts it's 2-2 with Greece just imagine the shitstorm etc - football is a sport where everything is possible. Italy did lose on penalties to Spain last time and I bet they wanna rematch! Italy had a nice group game against Spain which eneded 1-1 and after that there is no team in the World which is favorite against Italy - simple as that cuz Spain are current best! Great game and best semis so far emotionally I got entertained more than all the games combined before this one.
I agree, all of the remaining four teams could win this euro.
Balotelli is famous because of his antics, not because of his play. But some people seem to think because he is so famous he is supposed to be just as good as players with similar fame. He just isn't and never was. We wouldn't really be talking about him right now if it were just his football skills. That said he does have skill. He could have played better but I think he did ok enough. Most importantly, he scored his penalty. He could have scored 3 or 4 goals. But if he did he was super world class and right now he just isn't. Especially with his mental state inhibiting his talent it is hard to see him become a top class player.
Balotelli was active a lot and it was possible to pass him in. Compare that to Rooney, who is supposed to be a much better player. Granted, they don't play on the same team and Rooey's team was being dominated. But still.
On June 25 2012 07:41 Hazzyboy wrote: Italy did lose on penalties to Spain last time and I bet they wanna rematch! Italy had a nice group game against Spain which eneded 1-1 and after that there is no team in the World which is favorite against Italy - simple as that cuz Spain are current best!
I respect your argument, but I would hold both Spain and Germany as favourites against Italy any day. Anything can happend in 90 minutes though, and the italians sure know how to perform in tournaments! The semi-finals will be so exciting!
I'm in England right now and I'm a bit afraid how people might act tomorrow haha. But anyways Italy really deserved the win. They just played better soccer (or football, pardon my American), and England is just so incredibly defensive at all times. Games with England just have not been that fun to watch because it's just them standing at their goal while the other country tries to score and does a bad job of it.
Also I'm pretty sure Germany is going to win the whole thing, so this match probably will not affect the overall outcome too much. I wish I had realized sooner that there was an entire subforum for this, I've been watching it but haven't been on TL in a while.
Balotelli's talent level is the same as Ronaldo and Messi. Its the hate he gets because hes not a total nice guy or he says some crazy stuff. to deny his talent is ridiculous
On June 25 2012 08:07 Jepsyn wrote: Balotelli's talent level is the same as Ronaldo and Messi. Its the hate he gets because hes not a total nice guy or he says some crazy stuff. to deny his talent is ridiculous
I dont think hes displayed enough "talent" to warrant those comparisons. Its hard to judge how talented he is if a player doesnt show it. Flashes of brilliance doesnt mean you have ridiculous talent, even lower division players will give you those.
Yes he is very talented. But no his "talent" level whatever measure you use for talent is not the same as Messi or Ronaldo.
Otherwise every petulant underperforming striker would have that sort of easy excuse. They dont. "Im not playing well because the world hates me". No ones going to buy that, no one should. And frankly I dont even think hes selling.
On paper I think Germany is the strongest team in the tournament, but how their fans can be at all confident having to probably go through Italy and Spain (no offense Portugal, Im rooting for you), the two teams that give them the most fits and have stopped them in the past 3 major tournaments, is beyond me.
Whoever does win this euro is going to need to pull off 2 very difficult wins, because everyone left is a strong side. It's almost silly to talk about favorites at this point
On June 25 2012 08:07 Jepsyn wrote: Balotelli's talent level is the same as Ronaldo and Messi. Its the hate he gets because hes not a total nice guy or he says some crazy stuff. to deny his talent is ridiculous
Wow he's potentially good but nowhere close to Ronaldo or Messi level. Them two players are the best players of our time, possibly of all time. We are privileged to be able to watch those two players play in our lifetime.
On June 25 2012 08:07 Jepsyn wrote: Balotelli's talent level is the same as Ronaldo and Messi. Its the hate he gets because hes not a total nice guy or he says some crazy stuff. to deny his talent is ridiculous
Balotelli played well today even though he didn't put his chances away. He constantly made himself available for the midfield and he tracked back to recover the ball on a number of occasions. He was threatening almost the entire match until the end of the game when I suspect he got fatigued. People just like to rag on him because he is a lunatic off the field. Playing well is more then just scoring goals, there are many other important factors to look at, even for a striker.
As for the semi-final, I think it will be an excellent match. Germany has not looked particularly good this tournament, but then again, neither did the Netherlands at WC2010. Italy meanwhile has looked surprisingly good, playing a deserved draw versus Spain in the group stage and also playing brilliantly today.
I feel like Italy will win this match-up if they put away their chances, but that is not a given as they have been fairly profligate the entire tournament. Germany, in contrast, has not had nearly as many scoring chances but have put them all away mercilessly. I think it will be an entertaining game, much like this one today.
One other thing, I saw somebody mock Andy Carrol on here, and usually I would be with you, but today he actually did a lot of deft work, controlling long balls really well, holding it up and passing it off to oncoming teammates. He put in a good stint today, much better then Rooney or Welbeck for example. Also, Gerrard free kicks were once again marvelous.
I'm fed up of people saying that England were awful or embarrasing somehow. The fact is the England team is awful. The players aren't very good. There are 3 players good enough to be in the quarter finals of this tournament: Hart, Gerrard and Rooney (on his day). The rest of the team is, frankly, terrible. The players are either old and slow, never had any pace to begin with, or those with pace have no end product or ball control. How were they meant to play, like Barcelona?? England played the only way they could with their team, they tried desperately not to let the better team win. I would compare it to an NPower Championship club playing Manchester United.
On June 25 2012 09:59 Jockmcplop wrote: I'm fed up of people saying that England were awful or embarrasing somehow. The fact is the England team is awful. The players aren't very good. There are 3 players good enough to be in the quarter finals of this tournament: Hart, Gerrard and Rooney (on his day). The rest of the team is, frankly, terrible. The players are either old and slow, never had any pace to begin with, or those with pace have no end product or ball control. How were they meant to play, like Barcelona?? England played the only way they could with their team, they tried desperately not to let the better team win. I would compare it to an NPower Championship club playing Manchester United.
Ashley Cole, Terry and Lescott are more than good enough. There's no reason we can't play better football than the shower of shite we showed all tournament. When Greece are the closest team to you in terms of play style you're doing something wrong.
Our formations, tactics and team selection were very poor.
I don't rate Lescott and Young at all. Rio Ferdinand instead of Lescott (although we all know that won't happen because of the John Terry thing) and Oxlade-Chamberlain for Young would improve England's chances greatly.
On June 25 2012 09:59 Jockmcplop wrote: I'm fed up of people saying that England were awful or embarrasing somehow. The fact is the England team is awful. The players aren't very good. There are 3 players good enough to be in the quarter finals of this tournament: Hart, Gerrard and Rooney (on his day). The rest of the team is, frankly, terrible. The players are either old and slow, never had any pace to begin with, or those with pace have no end product or ball control. How were they meant to play, like Barcelona?? England played the only way they could with their team, they tried desperately not to let the better team win. I would compare it to an NPower Championship club playing Manchester United.
Being from UK you should know that soccer is a team sport. Individual skill of specific players often has very little impact on the outcome of the game. Otherwise Brazil and Argentina would have won every WC. You can argue against veteran players but dont only blame your loss on a shitty roster. They got outplayed by a better coached, physically and tactically sound squad that wanted it more.
So Italy has not won a game in regular time in last 4 games of the knockout stage in major tournaments going back to 2006. 2006 WC semi = went to OT (won) 2006 WC final = went to penalties (won) 2008 Euro quarter = went to penalties (lost) 2012 Euro quarter = went to penalties (won)
On June 25 2012 09:30 Pantagruel wrote: Balotelli played well today even though he didn't put his chances away. He constantly made himself available for the midfield and he tracked back to recover the ball on a number of occasions. He was threatening almost the entire match until the end of the game when I suspect he got fatigued. People just like to rag on him because he is a lunatic off the field. Playing well is more then just scoring goals, there are many other important factors to look at, even for a striker.
The bold is in theory true. The problem with Balotelli is, that he is essentially a finisher of chances and not someone, who also creates them like Striker like Germany´s Klose or France´s Benzema for example. Italy also doesn´t play a style that requires for Balotelli to play strong defensively.
Balotellis job in the team is easily explained. To score goals!
Ca. 80 % of Italy´s chances had Balotelli as last man on the ball. Several of these chances were huge and Balotelli managed to waste them all. I can assure you that such failures would be deadly against stronger teams like the three remaining Semifinalists.
Exactly for that reason I also can´t agree on Italy playing brilliantly today. Call me conservative, but for me part of playing good football involves scoring.
The setup of chances was strong at times, but the execution was weak. This inability brought them on the edge of elimination today.
If they don´t work on their efficiency (aside of the game vs. Spain a general problem of them in this competition), they will rightfully not win anything this year.
Playing good football doesnt mean scoring. Definitely not for Italy out of all teams. They are like the perfect antidote for England - a lot of passing creativity, taking away space and early pressure in the middle, elite defence vs long balls etc primitive attempts at creating scoring opportunity, - England with their simplistic approach always had a hard time here, especially when they cant dominate it on the wing.
Yeah I don't think much of Balotelli either but Di Natale is a bit of a crock who probably can't play 90 minutes, Giovinco is the wrong type of striker and Diamante is just not good enough.
Di Natale is also 34 and if Balotelli ever gets his mental game straight he'll be a great player so it's better to invest in him now in the hope he pays off long term.
I think Balotelli with Di Natale from the bench is their best option.
Italy will have to step it up if they want to challenge the Germans. We were never going to be a big team in this competition and frankly we did amazingly well considering the tools at our disposal. That said I did have a few beefs with selections:
Johnson - cannot defend, and apparently cannot score either. Micah Richards should have been here, and he may have to move from City for the sake of his club and country career. That said Johnson had a decent enough game putting in some last ditch tackles, but playing him means we had to play:
Milner - offers little but enthusiasm, he had to play just to support Johnson. Between the two of them you end up with one decent defender, I guess, but we offer little going forward. Walcott can at least scare defenders with pace, while Lennon has a bit of the jiggery-pokery about him. Neither can cross for beans, though, so hopefully Adam Johnson comes good. Speaking of offering little going forward:
Young - simply terrible at this tournament, and playing out of position isn't an excuse. If you don't like being on the left wing then bloody cut inside where you prefer to be. I would have much rather seen Baines here offering support to Cole, since Young didn't bother for much of the tournament. Cole and Baines, both of whom can defend and both of whom can attack, would have worked quite nicely, but instead Cole was left to do all of the defending and some of the attacking himself.
For as much as people here are slating Lescott, I thought him and Terry played well together, it's just a shame that neither can move faster than Hart. Same with Gerrard and Parker - he allowed Gerrard to finally play like he does for Liverpool and we saw it in action for England, him ranging about the middle creating chances. Shame it took til the end of his career to be played this way.
Sadly England just weren't good enough to get further, and like I said they outdid their potential. Rooney was very short of match fitness so he couldn't do much, it's a shame Welbeck and Carroll didn't get more time together. But we have some decent youth coming through, so hopefully we'll get a team organised and used to playing the way Hodgson wants them to - let's not forget he took over the team for less than two months. Can any of you remember any manager going so far with a poor team in sich a short time? But changes cannot come soon enough - we have a lot of the Old Guard...getting old, I guess. Terry, Ferdinand, Cole, Gerrard, Parker, Lampard - all over thirty. Do they have another tournament in them? Do we really want to find out...?
Grats to Italy btw. They struggled to break us down and they'll have to step it up, but the better team won in the end and they deserved it more, for all that we fought. They were just better.
On June 25 2012 09:30 Pantagruel wrote: Balotelli played well today even though he didn't put his chances away. He constantly made himself available for the midfield and he tracked back to recover the ball on a number of occasions. He was threatening almost the entire match until the end of the game when I suspect he got fatigued. People just like to rag on him because he is a lunatic off the field. Playing well is more then just scoring goals, there are many other important factors to look at, even for a striker.
The bold is in theory true. The problem with Balotelli is, that he is essentially a finisher of chances and not someone, who also creates them like Striker like Germany´s Klose or France´s Benzema for example. Italy also doesn´t play a style that requires for Balotelli to play strong defensively.
Balotellis job in the team is easily explained. To score goals!
Ca. 80 % of Italy´s chances had Balotelli as last man on the ball. Several of these chances were huge and Balotelli managed to waste them all. I can assure you that such failures would be deadly against stronger teams like the three remaining Semifinalists.
Exactly for that reason I also can´t agree on Italy playing brilliantly today. Call me conservative, but for me part of playing good football involves scoring.
The setup of chances was strong at times, but the execution was weak. This inability brought them on the edge of elimination today.
If they don´t work on their efficiency (aside of the game vs. Spain a general problem of them in this competition), they will rightfully not win anything this year.
Balotelli didn't waste chances. This is such a media impression and it's starting to annoy me. He did what he had to do. You can't score on anything but crosses or luck if the opposing team is playing 10 men behind the ball all game. Yes, Balo for sure missed chances against Spain; I agree with you there. Today, though? I can think of one chance on which he waited too long. The rest of the misses were a combination of extremely passionate England defense and bad luck.
In order to finish you need to be in a winnable position. You can't have 3 defenders still between you and the net (and in some cases, between you and the ball). It's just unrealistic.
It had less to do with Balotelli and more to do with people like Montolivo wanting to carry the ball up the middle.
Di Natale is a good player, but only against teams who play a passing style and who don't have a tall defense that restricts service. He'd be useless against Germany, but useful against Spain/Portugal. He would have been worthless against England. Italy should have opted for wide plays into crosses from the start, rather than from 80 minutes onward.
Italy played far from perfectly, but scoring against a super-defensive play-for-penalties style isn't something that you just do. It's something that takes a fair amount of luck. Trapp era Italy was the same way. We'd lose 1-0, win 1-0, or go to extra time/PKs. It wasn't that the other team sucked or something; it's just that when there's 11 people between you and the back of the net, the numbers are against you.
On June 25 2012 11:54 skrzmark wrote: Bench Cassano for Di Natale.
That would be an auto-loss. Di Natale is a goal-scorer, not a creative player. If anything, do 4-3-3 with Gio/Cassano/Balotelli and then sub Cassano for Di Natale late. THAT would score goals.
On June 25 2012 11:54 skrzmark wrote: Bench Cassano for Di Natale.
That would be an auto-loss. Di Natale is a goal-scorer, not a creative player. If anything, do 4-3-3 with Gio/Cassano/Balotelli and then sub Cassano for Di Natale late. THAT would score goals.
Balotelli didn't waste or ruin oppertunities. He just didn't convert them into goals, which wasn't easy at all. Still, he could have proven he is actually the football star his fame tries to make him out and score in regular time and carry Italy to the finals. He didn't. But he didn't play bad at all. He indeed played pretty good and was often a threat and a menace to the English defense.
I still have to be convinced that this guy is something special football-wise. So far I don't see the skill or see the results. Surely he is something special. I remember the CL game where he refused to run after a ball after he came in. That was funny as hell. Back then I had no idea who he was. But for some reason he was pissed off about something. People act like he would be much better if he weren't crazy and that he is wasting his talent. That may be the case. But that's just speculation. Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
The guy only scores 26 points out of a 100 for golden ball top scorer award. And he even gets bonus points for playing in the premier league. And it's a bit easier scoring goals for the champion than it is for a mid table finisher. There are mid table midfielders ahead of Balotelli, scoring-wise. http://eurorivals.net/top-scorers.html
It's not a complete picture, but when he starts to score really a lot of important goals or carries his team through games, then come back and tell me he has Messi/Ronaldo talent.
Right now he is doing crazy stuff, telling people he is a genius and just brainfarting.
People like Messi can think 3 steps ahead. He couldn't think about the next step.
The guy has obvious athletic ability and very good ball control and an excellent shot. The guy has a lot of things going for him to make him a top player. But right now he is way overrated.
I bet Inzaghi would have scored yesterday, lol. Also England very well deserved to lose in penalty shootouts just for the smirk of Hart. Pissed me off so much, so glad he didn't save one.
On June 25 2012 13:14 alderamin wrote: Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is good, but Messi still is on another level. Also even if you put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body, he would still fall like a fly with every touch of his opponents...~~
On June 25 2012 13:51 Type|NarutO wrote: I bet Inzaghi would have scored yesterday, lol. Also England very well deserved to lose in penalty shootouts just for the smirk of Hart. Pissed me off so much, so glad he didn't save one.
Also, like a Buffon.
I wish Italy still had a striker of Inzaghi's quality v.v
On June 25 2012 13:51 Type|NarutO wrote: I bet Inzaghi would have scored yesterday, lol. Also England very well deserved to lose in penalty shootouts just for the smirk of Hart. Pissed me off so much, so glad he didn't save one.
Also, like a Buffon.
I wish Italy still had a striker of Inzaghi's quality v.v
Yeah, he usually played soo terribad, but still scored in most matches. It was a mystery for me, the ball always bounced off him and managed to find its way into the net
I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
On June 25 2012 13:14 alderamin wrote: Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is good, but Messi still is on another level. Also even if you put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body, he would still fall like a fly with every touch of his opponents...~~
Many of the things Messi can do is precisely because of his size. Just means you dont have to be a pristine physical speciman to be great. Although Messi is no slouch and he can ride a tackle better than anyone lower center of gravity etc etc..
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Most of the people in this thread say that Italy played a good tournament and that it will be a close game.
Germany are the favourites, because Italy drew 3 out of 4 games while Germany won 4 out of 4, I don't know what's so upsetting about that.
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Most of the people in this thread say that Italy played a good tournament and that it will be a close game.
Germany are the favourites, because Italy drew 3 out of 4 games while Germany won 4 out of 4, I don't know what's so upsetting about that.
See, saying that Germany is favourite because it won all the games is a wrong way to judge a team because you don't keep in consideration the quality of the opponents... that's just blind "fanboyism" . You have to judge the performance, and if you do so you would realize that Italy played way way way way better yesterday in comparison of the Germany matches.
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Most of the people in this thread say that Italy played a good tournament and that it will be a close game.
Germany are the favourites, because Italy drew 3 out of 4 games while Germany won 4 out of 4, I don't know what's so upsetting about that.
See, saying that Germany is favourite because it won all the games is a wrong way to judge a team because you don't keep in consideration the quality of the opponents... that's just blind "fanboyism" .
Oh I forgot you played mighty Croatia and England lol.
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Most of the people in this thread say that Italy played a good tournament and that it will be a close game.
Germany are the favourites, because Italy drew 3 out of 4 games while Germany won 4 out of 4, I don't know what's so upsetting about that.
See, saying that Germany is favourite because it won all the games is a wrong way to judge a team because you don't keep in consideration the quality of the opponents... that's just blind "fanboyism" .
Oh I forgot you played mighty Croatia and England lol.
LOL are you kidding me. The "mighty" Croatia played better than Netherland and Denmark. Is it really too hard to watch the game and have a objective point of view ? Looks like it is.
But hey, Germany didnt get lucky vs Portugal, not at all. I mean, the German players diving in front of the Portugal striker was pure tactic, totally not a desperation move. /sarcasm
On June 25 2012 09:59 Jockmcplop wrote: I'm fed up of people saying that England were awful or embarrasing somehow. The fact is the England team is awful. The players aren't very good. There are 3 players good enough to be in the quarter finals of this tournament: Hart, Gerrard and Rooney (on his day). The rest of the team is, frankly, terrible. The players are either old and slow, never had any pace to begin with, or those with pace have no end product or ball control. How were they meant to play, like Barcelona?? England played the only way they could with their team, they tried desperately not to let the better team win. I would compare it to an NPower Championship club playing Manchester United.
Excuse me princess, but championship teams have beaten manchester utd many times in the past. The gap is huge but football is a funny old game.
England are a bad team, but theres hope for the future with chamberlain, wilshire and the other youngsters coming through. Imo Hodgeson fucked up by not entering a SUPER young team and keeping them together for the next 10 years, instead opting to have a team where players will continually phase in and out.
England are not the greatest, but at least we have the best domestic league in the world...which is arguably more important
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Most of the people in this thread say that Italy played a good tournament and that it will be a close game.
Germany are the favourites, because Italy drew 3 out of 4 games while Germany won 4 out of 4, I don't know what's so upsetting about that.
See, saying that Germany is favourite because it won all the games is a wrong way to judge a team because you don't keep in consideration the quality of the opponents... that's just blind "fanboyism" .
Oh I forgot you played mighty Croatia and England lol.
LOL are you kidding me. The "mighty" Croatia played better than Netherland and Denmark. Is it really too hard to watch the game and have a objective point of view ? Looks like it is.
It looks like it is, I agree with you there.
edit: No point in discussing this any further, really. You have your opinion, I have mine, which is fine by me
On June 25 2012 15:58 BlitzerSC wrote: I love how all the people are saying that Germany will have a easy win, lmao. Italy is so underrated and I'm not that surprised, it has always been like that for no reason. It doesn't matter how well Italy plays, people will talk shit every single time. If you say that Germany will have an easy win vs Portugal/Italy/Spain, well let me tell you that you don't know shit about football and the only thing you can do is follow the train of the media saying that Germany has the best team (which is bullshit tbh). The only advantage they have is that they rested 2 days more than Italy.
Believe me most people in Germany have a lot of respect for the Italian team and don't expect an easy win at all. It will be a tough match, hopefully we will win, but I'm already nervous
On June 25 2012 09:59 Jockmcplop wrote: I'm fed up of people saying that England were awful or embarrasing somehow. The fact is the England team is awful. The players aren't very good. There are 3 players good enough to be in the quarter finals of this tournament: Hart, Gerrard and Rooney (on his day). The rest of the team is, frankly, terrible. The players are either old and slow, never had any pace to begin with, or those with pace have no end product or ball control. How were they meant to play, like Barcelona?? England played the only way they could with their team, they tried desperately not to let the better team win. I would compare it to an NPower Championship club playing Manchester United.
You have some valid points. They just lost vs a better team yesterday, I don't know if that's really embarrasing. I don't think the team is really aweful, but it's definitely not on the level of the four teams that made it to the semis. Nevertheless England wasn't a big disappointment at this EC for me. Coming into this EC I wasn't even sure if they would make it out of the group. But they played with passion/heart and most importantly they played as a team. Looking at the team itself, the back four are quite ok in my opinion. Rooney is overrated by the English media, but he is still a decent player and Wellbeck isn't too bad either. And for the first time in years they have a good Keeper with Joe Hart. The part were England is really hurting is midfield. Gerrad played a good EC, he fought like a lion and had some good crosses in the first matches that lead to goals. But there's only so much one player can do. If you look at the rest of the English midfield, all those players are mediocre at best. Players like Parker, Milner or Young just don't cut it. They lose the ball far to quick and aren't able to play one decent pass/cross in the entire match. At times you got the feeling that England was playing without a midfield at all. Rooney was falling back all of the time yesterday and tried to act like a playmaker, because they clearly have none. England had strong showings in the last youth cups so let's hope that there are some good midfielders amongst those age groups. Also don't forget that Jack Wilshere was out for this EC, he would have been a major improvement for England.
tldr: I don't think England was embarrasing and I see hope in the future of this squad
But still no one is seeing how radical Italy changed their style?
They went from maximum efficiency team which would defend 90% of the time (world class defense though) and have one semi-opportunity which they would score a goal from, to a team that attacks 90% of the time have a multitude of opportunities but cannot even score one lousy goal.
Yes, Italy's way more entertaining to watch now but i fear they were proving better (result wise) with the old style .
On June 25 2012 13:14 alderamin wrote: Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is good, but Messi still is on another level. Also even if you put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body, he would still fall like a fly with every touch of his opponents...~~
Many of the things Messi can do is precisely because of his size. Just means you dont have to be a pristine physical speciman to be great. Although Messi is no slouch and he can ride a tackle better than anyone lower center of gravity etc etc..
I hate this argument. Which is not even an argument, cause there are a bazillion of short and fast players with the 1/10 of Messi's agility and ball control. Did you see how walcott yesterday had a free run for 30-40meters and completely botched it cause he tripped on the ball while on full speed. Messi's ability doesn't lay in his size, that's bollocks and disrespecting to him.
On June 25 2012 13:14 alderamin wrote: Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is good, but Messi still is on another level. Also even if you put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body, he would still fall like a fly with every touch of his opponents...~~
Many of the things Messi can do is precisely because of his size. Just means you dont have to be a pristine physical speciman to be great. Although Messi is no slouch and he can ride a tackle better than anyone lower center of gravity etc etc..
I hate this argument. Which is not even an argument, cause there are a bazillion of short and fast players with the 1/10 of Messi's agility and ball control. Did you see how walcott yesterday had a free run for 30-40meters and completely botched it cause he tripped on the ball while on full speed. Messi's ability doesn't lay in his size, that's bollocks and disrespecting to him.
And theres a ton of 6 foot physical specimens that are not like Ronaldo either. Nor did I say it means all short people are nimble and agile. I think your misunderstanding.
Sure his ability, control and agility are on another level but it is accentuated by being smaller having a lower center of gravity, stronger pivot and quicker lateral movement, so he doesnt have to do flashy stepovers. Its a combination of the factors that elevates it.
Its simple physics it allows him to do things a bigger player cant do thats it really. Just like a Ronaldo is better in the air not neccessarily because of technique because Messi can head it pretty well to but just out of physique.
Ever wondered why 7 footers dont play guards in the NBA ?
On June 25 2012 13:14 alderamin wrote: Put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body and we have the perfect player. But is either one of those two wasting something by not being that perfect player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is good, but Messi still is on another level. Also even if you put Messi's brain in Ronaldo's body, he would still fall like a fly with every touch of his opponents...~~
Many of the things Messi can do is precisely because of his size. Just means you dont have to be a pristine physical speciman to be great. Although Messi is no slouch and he can ride a tackle better than anyone lower center of gravity etc etc..
I hate this argument. Which is not even an argument, cause there are a bazillion of short and fast players with the 1/10 of Messi's agility and ball control. Did you see how walcott yesterday had a free run for 30-40meters and completely botched it cause he tripped on the ball while on full speed. Messi's ability doesn't lay in his size, that's bollocks and disrespecting to him.
And theres a ton of 6 foot physical specimens that are not like Ronaldo either. Nor did I say it means all short people are nimble and agile. I think your misunderstanding.
Sure his ability, control and agility are on another level but it is accentuated by being smaller having a lower center of gravity, stronger pivot and quicker lateral movement, so he doesnt have to do flashy stepovers. Its a combination of the factors that elevates it.
Its simple physics it allows him to do things a bigger player cant do thats it really. Just like a Ronaldo is better in the air not neccessarily because of technique because Messi can head it pretty well to but just out of physique.
Ever wondered why 7 footers dont play guards in the NBA ?
Oh ok then. You just enranged the inner fanboy in me, xD.
On June 25 2012 16:53 Pika Chu wrote: But still no one is seeing how radical Italy changed their style?
They went from maximum efficiency team which would defend 90% of the time (world class defense though) and have one semi-opportunity which they would score a goal from, to a team that attacks 90% of the time have a multitude of opportunities but cannot even score one lousy goal.
Yes, Italy's way more entertaining to watch now but i fear they were proving better (result wise) with the old style .
Well considering 2008 and 2010 they had to change...
I think the match went how i expected it to. Two very defensive teams produce a kinda boring match. Italy made the match but did not score, which is what wins games. At least we passed. Grande Buffon! Looking forward to semifinals spain-portugal is basically a derby, and Italy Germany will be interesting as well. .
That game was so painfull to watch. Not sure if Italy played well or just England played terrible so made them look good. Either way i feel like Germany is going to beat Italy but should be a good game
EPT
![[image loading]](http://www.indiastudychannel.com/attachments/Resources/147419-141121-euro_2012.jpg)
![[image loading]](http://img.uefa.com/imgml/flags/50x50/ENG.png)
![[image loading]](http://img.uefa.com/imgml/flags/50x50/ITA.png)
![[image loading]](http://img.skysports.com/football/badges/64/1075.png)
![[image loading]](http://img.skysports.com/football/badges/64/881.png)
Hope they suprise and actually go for it!
