World Cup 2006, anyone watching?

[GaSouthern]

Anyone out there interested?

[TexasTerror]

Very interested...

The games don't fall during a good time, so I'll only be able to catch one USA game live and will have to watch the others in replay or just read about them...

[TheValleyRaider]

Taping them, shutting myself off from the world while working, then watching once I get home. Did the same thing for the Germany game in 2002, just hoping for some better results this time around.

As far as interested discussion, there's a thread on this started a day or two ago. I'll see if I can pull it up here... :read:

[TheValleyRaider]

Found it: http://www.anygivensaturday.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10447

[blackfordpu]

World Cup??:confused: :rolleyes:

[ISUMatt]

Ill watch for sure!!

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Let's put it this way. When the USA beat South Korea in 2002 I woke up at 3AM to watch the game. (Could I just, for once, *not* follow a sport psychotically??) :rotateh:

I'm lucky in that I have 2 teams I follow: the USA, of course, and France, since I lived there as a kid. Since 1994, when one has stunk, the other has done great. This year, I'm hoping both make the elimination round for the first time.

I don't see who will stop Germany. Maybe the Netherlands can do it. It won't be Brazil, though.

[89Hen]

Let's put it this way. When the USA beat South Korea in 2002 I woke up at 3AM to watch the game.
I watched every USA game live from Korea. Either stayed up or set the alarm. I plan on watching every USA game again this year.

Mon, 6/12 12 p.m. United States vs. Czech Republic - Gelsenkirchen
Sat, 6/17 3 p.m. Italy vs. United States - Kaiserslautern
Thu, 6/22 10 a.m. Ghana vs. United States - Nurnberg

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I don't like soccer but as a sports fan i'll keep an eye the USA team.

[DotCat]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!!!!!!!!

[slycat]

the world cup will keep me busy until the fall.

[Tribefan]

I was in Korea/Japan for the last one and went to every US game and a few other big ones. The World Cup is an incredible event rivaled by nothing else globally, Just imagine cramming the entire college football season into one month and play every game in a place the size of Florida. It's nuts.

The US team has the talent and potential to go far. The Germany game shocked me from the standpoint that skill wise, we're not that far off from the very, very best in the world. The difference? Back then we didn't have enough skilled big men, and our stars couldn't finish the big plays. If was not for a terrible Scottish Ref and clever German who stuck his hand out at the right time, we would be talking about how the US had made it to the finals or at least the consolation game.

Don't like Soccer? How about considering that our US team is made up of a bunch of warriors. In '02 they played every game against a hostile crowd that was praying that they lose, except for a few Brits, and Irishmen nobody wanted the US to perform. So everytime the US scores a goal, or the US wins or draws in a match, 95% of the world will be pissed off, that my friends is a beautiful thing.

[TheValleyRaider]

Don't like Soccer? How about considering that our US team is made up of a bunch of warriors. In '02 they played every game against a hostile crowd that was praying that they lose, except for a few Brits, and Irishmen nobody wanted the US to perform. So everytime the US scores a goal, or the US wins or draws in a match, 95% of the world will be pissed off, that my friends is a beautiful thing.

No one likes us!
Yes, no one likes us!
No one likes us,
And we don't care!
:hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :hurray:

[Lehigh Football Nation]

No one likes us!
Yes, no one likes us!
No one likes us,
And we don't care!
:hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :hurray:

I'm impressed! The USA is the Millwall of the world!

:lmao:

[jstate83]

Anyone out there interested?

NONE.: smh :

[blur2005]

I don't see who will stop Germany. Maybe the Netherlands can do it. It won't be Brazil, though.
I'm assuming that was a joke, since Germany is fielding probably its worse team in twenty years and is a big underdog in the race to win the Cup, even with the homefield advantage. Brazil is by far the best team, but the best team doesn't always win, as Youngstown State fans seem to knowxlolx.

In terms of interest in the World Cup, I watched every qualifier and have been taking in as much information as possible in the last few weeks in the build up to the greatest sporting event in the world. My love of soccer rivals my love of football, though I love pretty much all sports. I will certainly be making an effort to watch every U.S. game live, despite my work schedule (cough, cough) and every game that I can watch period. Greatest sporting tournament in the world, with a good billion people tuning in. I fricken love it.

http://myspace-252.vo.llnwd.net/00792/25/22/792682252_m.jpg

Check out my World Cup predictions on my blog: The Daily Geoff (http://daskell.blogspot.com/)

[Grizo406]

In terms of interest in the World Cup, I watched every qualifier and have been taking in as much information as possible in the last few weeks in the build up to the greatest sporting event in the world. My love of soccer rivals my love of football, though I love pretty much all sports. I will certainly be making an effort to watch every U.S. game live, despite my work schedule (cough, cough) and every game that I can watch period. Greatest sporting tournament in the world, with a good billion people tuning in. I fricken love it.

http://myspace-252.vo.llnwd.net/00792/25/22/792682252_m.jpg

Check out my World Cup predictions on my blog: The Daily Geoff (http://daskell.blogspot.com/)

Appreciate your love of soccer, blur, but try as I might, I'm just not getting it. I've tried to, on numerous occasions, by following it on TV, going to some local league games that friends play in, and I still don't get the attraction. Any helpful hints that you might want to pass along, to help me understand it better, would be appreciated.

I'm fascinated with all the Kameni/Zoro things going on, but beyond that, the "beautiful sport" is hard for me to follow.

I tend to think soccer might be fairly close to my love of fishing, and Bob Dylan. I've tried to explain "why" many times, but came away with the feeling that if you had to ask, you wouldn't understand anyway.

[GannonFan]

Let's put it this way. When the USA beat South Korea in 2002 I woke up at 3AM to watch the game. (Could I just, for once, *not* follow a sport psychotically??) :rotateh:



Actually, we tied Korea last time - we beat Portugal and lost to Poland, and then beat Mexico in the second round before losing to Germany in the quarters.

As for the World Cup, I'll be watching. The beauty of TiVo being that I can tape every game, and then come home and watch most of it in fast forward. Although a fan of soccer, I really do think there is a lot of dead time in games that is just plain boring (hey, I do the same for a lot of football games I TiVo too so I'm not just picking on soccer).

[Ivytalk]

I watched every USA game live from Korea. Either stayed up or set the alarm. I plan on watching every USA game again this year.

Mon, 6/12 12 p.m. United States vs. Czech Republic - Gelsenkirchen
Sat, 6/17 3 p.m. Italy vs. United States - Kaiserslautern
Thu, 6/22 10 a.m. Ghana vs. United States - Nurnberg

Hey, my mother's family came from Kaiserslautern! Could it be an omen?;)

[AppGuy04]

Hey, I was watching Tv the other day, and something on the World Cup came on. They were talking about the US and Keller. I figured I would ask you guys what you thought.

They were saying that we have a big advantage as far as goal keeping goes. One guy said that Keller is the best goalie in the world right now, and that he should be the most comfortable on the world stage b/c he has played in Germany. Your thoughts? Does this help us, or do we not even have a chance?

[Tribefan]

The US has more depth at GK position than anyone else. Keller is very good, but I'm not sure about him being the best in the world. His kicking game is not as accurate as it could be. In 2002 Brad Friedel (US) was easily the best Goalkeeper for the World Cup. His saves, particularly the saves during penalty kicks were incredible.

[AppGuy04]

The US has more depth at GK position than anyone else. Keller is very good, but I'm not sure about him being the best in the world. His kicking game is not as accurate as it could be. In 2002 Brad Friedel (US) was easily the best Goalkeeper for the World Cup. His saves, particularly the saves during penalty kicks were incredible.

They also said that b/c there is no GK controversy like in 2002, that should help alot.

[Tribefan]

There really wasn't much controversy last time around. Both keepers were great but Arena would have been accused of insanity if he took Friedel out last time around.

[colgate13]

World Cup??:confused: :rolleyes:

Yea, I thought that was in 2007 (http://www.cricketworldcup.com/)?

[blur2005]

In 2002 Brad Friedel (US) was easily the best Goalkeeper for the World Cup. His saves, particularly the saves during penalty kicks were incredible.
Uhhhhhhhh...I think it would be more accurate to say Friedel was the second best keeper at the 2002 World Cup. A certain Oliver Kahn won the award for the tournament's best player and was also the main reason the United States didn't go farther...if you were watching you might remember the save he made on Landon Donovan in the quarterfinals...looked like a sure goal, but he somehow got to it.

As for Keller, he is one of the better keepers in the world, but certainly not the best. The young Peter Cech for the Czech Republic (also Chelsea's goalkeeper) and Gianluigi Buffon of Italy (Juventus' keeper) are probably the two best at the moment. Oh, that's funny - we have to face both of them in the group phase:(.

In the 2002 World Cup, Arena originally planned to use both keepers, but then Friedel got hot so Arena stuck with him.

[blur2005]

Appreciate your love of soccer, blur, but try as I might, I'm just not getting it. I've tried to, on numerous occasions, by following it on TV, going to some local league games that friends play in, and I still don't get the attraction. Any helpful hints that you might want to pass along, to help me understand it better, would be appreciated.

I'm fascinated with all the Kameni/Zoro things going on, but beyond that, the "beautiful sport" is hard for me to follow.

I tend to think soccer might be fairly close to my love of fishing, and Bob Dylan. I've tried to explain "why" many times, but came away with the feeling that if you had to ask, you wouldn't understand anyway.
I think it helps to have played the game because then you can really understand what's happening on the pitch, plus it gives you a greater appreciation for what the great players can do.

Also, watching the MLS right now isn't a great way to become a fan of soccer. It's just not that good yet, plus the atmosphere of the games isn't on the level of the European teams. Watch the Champions League on ESPN2 when that's going on to gain a better appreciation for the game and the atmosphere, as that exhibits some of the best soccer in the world as well as some tremendous games, like Liverpool winning the Champions League final a year ago, coming back from a 3-0 defecit. That was probably the best game I have ever watched.

[Tribefan]

Uhhhhhhhh...I think it would be more accurate to say Friedel was the second best keeper at the 2002 World Cup. A certain Oliver Kahn won the award for the tournament's best player and was also the main reason the United States didn't go farther...if you were watching you might remember the save he made on Landon Donovan in the quarterfinals...looked like a sure goal, but he somehow got to it.

As for Keller, he is one of the better keepers in the world, but certainly not the best. The young Peter Cech for the Czech Republic (also Chelsea's goalkeeper) and Gianluigi Buffon of Italy (Juventus' keeper) are probably the two best at the moment. Oh, that's funny - we have to face both of them in the group phase:(.

In the 2002 World Cup, Arena originally planned to use both keepers, but then Friedel got hot so Arena stuck with him.

Not only was I watching, but I was seated right behind the goal when it happened. Depending on who you are talking to, either Friedel or Kahn could be #1. Back then I would have taken Friedel, he performed remarkably well given the sieve that was the US defense. Besides do you really think that and American will ever be named the top player in the tournament? I think not LOL.

[aggie6thman]

This is the one and only time I care about soccer. The only reason I like it is because America gets to compete against the rest of the world. I could care less about the MLS or anyother organized soccer league.

[Tribefan]

Uhhhhhhhh...I think it would be more accurate to say Friedel was the second best keeper at the 2002 World Cup. A certain Oliver Kahn won the award for the tournament's best player and was also the main reason the United States didn't go farther...if you were watching you might remember the save he made on Landon Donovan in the quarterfinals...looked like a sure goal, but he somehow got to it.

As for Keller, he is one of the better keepers in the world, but certainly not the best. The young Peter Cech for the Czech Republic (also Chelsea's goalkeeper) and Gianluigi Buffon of Italy (Juventus' keeper) are probably the two best at the moment. Oh, that's funny - we have to face both of them in the group phase:(.

In the 2002 World Cup, Arena originally planned to use both keepers, but then Friedel got hot so Arena stuck with him.

Also, the main reason we didn't advance is that there was a certain blind Scottish official who chose not to see a certain German's handball that would have tied the game. At that point it could have gone either. I think the Brits were more pissed about this than we were, they absolutely hated to see Germany advance on a crap call like that.

[blur2005]

Also, the main reason we didn't advance is that there was a certain blind Scottish official who chose not to see a certain German's handball that would have tied the game. At that point it could have gone either. I think the Brits were more pissed about this than we were, they absolutely hated to see Germany advance on a crap call like that.
Yeah, that was bull****, I could not believe there was no call. I do wish I could go to the World Cup and watch some games live, but oh well, sometime in the future. My dream is to one day go and announce the games on ESPN or something.

[89Hen]

Yea, I thought that was in 2007 (http://www.cricketworldcup.com/)?
Cricket... :pumpuke:

[TheValleyRaider]

As for Keller, he is one of the better keepers in the world, but certainly not the best. The young Peter Cech for the Czech Republic (also Chelsea's goalkeeper) and Gianluigi Buffon of Italy (Juventus' keeper) are probably the two best at the moment. Oh, that's funny - we have to face both of them in the group phase:(.

The difficult thing about judging "the best players" is that rarely are they ever all together playing similar competition. With so many different leagues, Keller doesn't face off with Cech or Buffon often. However, he is highly rated considering the work he did with Borussia in the German Bundesliga. Van der Saar (Holland-Man. Utd) and Jens Lehmann (Germany-Arsenal) are also world class keepers as is the US backup Tim Howard (former EPL Player of the Year while he was at Man. Utd).

As for the statement that keeper will be an advantage for us, no, clearly it won't be. But having a guy like Keller in the net is certainly going to give us a good chance to win all 3 games in the group stages.

[blur2005]

The difficult thing about judging "the best players" is that rarely are they ever all together playing similar competition. With so many different leagues, Keller doesn't face off with Cech or Buffon often. However, he is highly rated considering the work he did with Borussia in the German Bundesliga. Van der Saar (Holland-Man. Utd) and Jens Lehmann (Germany-Arsenal) are also world class keepers as is the US backup Tim Howard (former EPL Player of the Year while he was at Man. Utd).

As for the statement that keeper will be an advantage for us, no, clearly it won't be. But having a guy like Keller in the net is certainly going to give us a good chance to win all 3 games in the group stages.
Didn't want to try to type out Borussia Mönchengladbach? I thought I'd specify it, since the more well known Borussia is Borussia Dortmund, though both play in Bundesliga 1.

[Jaques]

I'll be parked right in front of my 52" Sony LCD HDTV:D ...and no I'm not making up for something I don't have.:cool:

[TheValleyRaider]

Didn't want to try to type out Borussia Mönchengladbach? I thought I'd specify it, since the more well known Borussia is Borussia Dortmund, though both play in Bundesliga 1.

I actually added that sentence after finishing the post, so I forgot to add the second part.

Moenchengladbach is one of my favorite German words, right up there with:
Gelsenkirchen
Kaiserslautern
Weltmeisterschaft
Garmisch-Partenkirchen

[GannonFan]

I actually added that sentence after finishing the post, so I forgot to add the second part.

Moenchengladbach is one of my favorite German words, right up there with:
Gelsenkirchen
Kaiserslautern
Weltmeisterschaft
Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Although U2 made it more popular, Achtung is fun to say. And actually Gugentag is fun to say too - it was featured very prominently in the first game of Wolfenstein Castle.

[NoCoDanny]

Wasn't Tim Howard newcomer of the year and not player of the year? I believe Thierry Henry was the player of the year that season.

[blur2005]

Wasn't Tim Howard newcomer of the year and not player of the year? I believe Thierry Henry was the player of the year that season.
Well, Howard was named the best goalie in the Premier League in 2004. But then his play became somewhat inconsistent during the following season, which led to Manchester United going and transferring for Edwin van der Sar. Now Howard heads to Everton on loan for the 2006-07 season. Hopefully, his form will return since he is the heir apparent for the United States goalkeeper position, unless Marcus Hahneman continues to improve at the rate he has while at Reading FC (where he and fellow American Bobby Convey have led Reading to promotion to the Premier League).

[jwfgeol]

It seems like someone from the African zone always makes a surprise showing. Senegal in 2002, Nigeria 1998, Cameroon 1990. Who could it be this year? Ivory Coast? Angola?

[Pard4Life]

I actually added that sentence after finishing the post, so I forgot to add the second part.

Moenchengladbach is one of my favorite German words, right up there with:
Gelsenkirchen
Kaiserslautern
Weltmeisterschaft
Garmisch-Partenkirchen

That is tounge twister, I only recently starated saying it correctly. I am also a fan of 'schandefreude' and Kaiserslautern xlolx

[Pard4Life]

It seems like someone from the African zone always makes a surprise showing. Senegal in 2002, Nigeria 1998, Cameroon 1990. Who could it be this year? Ivory Coast? Angola?

I'd nominate Corte d' Ivore.. they have three nasty scorers so an upset might not be too surprising.

[LeopardFan04]

I'd agree with that...I don't think that Angola will do too much...Ivory Coast should have a decent shot of going through to the rd of 16 even despite the fact that they are probably in the toughest group.

[FlyYtown]

I will most certainly watch, not every game, but the important games involving the usa and brazil. I do enjoy soccer, but never could I be like they are in Europe for it.

Baseball dominates my life, then comes Penguin Football.

[blur2005]

It seems like someone from the African zone always makes a surprise showing. Senegal in 2002, Nigeria 1998, Cameroon 1990. Who could it be this year? Ivory Coast? Angola?
My money is on Côte d'Ivoire, as the Elephants have a very good squad. I actually have predicted them to go the semi-finals. Didier Drogba is a force up front for the Ivorians. But don't count out Ghana. With Michael Essien and a very strong set of midfielders outside of Essien, I'm actually pretty scared of them in Group E. The U.S. may have to beat them to advance, a not-so-simple task.

[jwfgeol]

My money is on Côte d'Ivoire, as the Elephants have a very good squad. I actually have predicted them to go the semi-finals. Didier Drogba is a force up front for the Ivorians. But don't count out Ghana. With Michael Essien and a very strong set of midfielders outside of Essien, I'm actually pretty scared of them in Group E. The U.S. may have to beat them to advance, a not-so-simple task.
I agree with Ghana. From what I've heard they are quite flashy, and could give Italy's defensive strategy fits.

[GeauxColonels]

I will try to watch as much as possible. I love these kind of things. I love to root for the good 'ol US of A! I'm big into the olympics too. Curling kicks ASS!

[TheValleyRaider]

My money is on Côte d'Ivoire, as the Elephants have a very good squad. I actually have predicted them to go the semi-finals.

I agree :thumbsup: :nod:

[TheValleyRaider]

If anyone was watching, ESPN Classic had replays today of our victories in 2002 over Portugal and Mexico. I watched the Portugal game and it was just as exciting the second time around, especially McBride's header to make it 3-0.

"Mine eyes have seen the glory!"

[Pard4Life]

I doubt many of you get the MSG network, but they usually have an excellent soccer synopsis and player breakdowns every evening. I think at 730 and 10. They helped me pick my fantasy World Cup squad.

[SuperJon]

Germany's up 2-1 on Coastal Rica right now in the 23rd minute.

[saint0917]

Germany's up 2-1 on Coastal Rica right now in the 23rd minute.

Any live feed on the internet, I can't find any. :(

[bluehenbillk]

I'll be watching the College Baseball Super Regioanls this weekend & then the CWS next week.

[Pard4Life]

Any live feed on the internet, I can't find any. :(

I want to know the same thing... ESPN360 is supposed to have it and downloaded the program, but it is nowhere to be found on the program. I am pretty annoyed right now and just sent them an email. They advertised its on 360, and it's not.

[Pard4Life]

Ok, ESPN 360 works now... I guess they listened to my complaint.. too late, missed 3 goals, and it's halftime..

go here to DL the program and watch... http://broadband.espn.go.com/broadband/EBB2/web/shellMain?ceid=2474224

[Pard4Life]

Frings goal for Germany 87th min.. 4-2 Germany.. ball game..

[GannonFan]

Fairly one-sided ballgame - Germany was all over Costa Rica and if not for two bad offside traps (easily the dumbest part of soccer IMO) with Wanchope doing some good finishing Costa Rica never would've scored. They were fortunate to make it 4-2.

[saint0917]

Ok, ESPN 360 works now... I guess they listened to my complaint.. too late, missed 3 goals, and it's halftime..

go here to DL the program and watch... http://broadband.espn.go.com/broadband/EBB2/web/shellMain?ceid=2474224

It's not working for me DAMN IT. I'll just have to watch the games when I get home. :(

[AppGuy04]

Germany beats Costa Rica 4-2 in the first game. Closer than it looks and Costa Rica only had 3 shots on goal, 2 for 3 ain't bad. Germany might be in some trouble against some real comp

[Pard4Life]

Germany beats Costa Rica 4-2 in the first game. Closer than it looks and Costa Rica only had 3 shots on goal, 2 for 3 ain't bad. Germany might be in some trouble against some real comp

Agreed.. Germany gave up some really easy opportunities and Costa Rica wasn't exactly pressing to hard either.

[GeauxColonels]

Wish I could watch it. Looks like I'll miss most of the Cup due to .... WORK! God that sux.

[SuperJon]

Ecuador's up 1-0 on Poland right now. Ecuador just missed an easy goal from about 7 yds out. They're in the 32nd minute. Ecuador's flat out outplaying Poland.

[Pard4Life]

Ecuador's up 1-0 on Poland right now. Ecuador just missed an easy goal from about 7 yds out. They're in the 32nd minute. Ecuador's flat out outplaying Poland.

Yeah Poland is getting smacked.. ESPN2 just said Poland has failed to score an opening match goal every World Cup since 1974.

[Pard4Life]

1-0 Ecuador at the half... Poland has been picking it up in the past 5minutes... some good chances just short of conversion.

[SuperJon]

2-0 Ecuador with 4 minutes remaining.

[TheValleyRaider]

Germany beat Costa Rica handily 4-2 in a game that wasn't even that close. As mentioned earlier, Germany's offside trap basically hung Lehmann out to dry both times, but Wanchope should be credited for some quality finishes. Hope is not completely lost for Costa Rica, as I think Germany is the strongest team in the group. But they'll have to do a better job organizing themselves in the midfield and defending attacks.

Ecuador picks up a big 2-0 win over Poland. It's fair to say the Poles didn't really start playing until about midway through the first half, and didn't even start to play well until the end of the second half, after the Ecuadorians began to tire. Some good stops by Ecuador defensively, but I wonder how they'll handle the more aggressive and precise German attack. Of course, by then they could already have another 3 points from beating Costa Rica, and be all but secured for the knockout stages. Poland's in a big hole, but if they can get going earlier should beat the Ticos.

[TexasTerror]

Very interesting...

Poland was the team that folks thought would give Germany some problems in Group A...

Now we have Ecuador getting a 2-0 win over the Poles. Could we see the Polish side not advance to the next round?

[blur2005]

The opening game of this World Cup was exactly the kind of game I hoped for, one with a lot of goals and a lot of excitement. Germany was clearly the better team and if the Huns had played a little defense, the score might have been 4-0. In the second game, Ecuador outplayed Poland the entire game and earned a well-deserved 2-0 victory. I figured the winner of the Ecuador-Poland matchup would probably advance to the second round, so it looks like Ecuador is well on its way to the Round of 16.

By the way, TiVo is the greatest invention ever.

[AmsterBison]

I watched a bit of England - Paraguay today... excrutiating.

However, I'm looking forward to watching the Dutch play Serbia-Montenegro tomorrow.

[Mr. C]

People complain about 0-0 games in soccer, but the match between Trinadad & Tobago and Sweden was a great game to watch. Lots of action and some tremendous goaltending by Shaka Hislop of T&T. They earned a tite despite being under constant pressure and playing a man down after a red card early in the second half. Some good tactics, too, from the T&T coach to sub an offensive player in for a defensive player when they lost their defender (Avery John) to the red card. They also got a great game out of former Manchester United star Dwight Yorke as a withdrawn midfielder. He played great defense. Sweden and Poland are not holding things up very well for the Europeans right now. Poland's performance yesterday was dreadful until the final minutes.

Watching an entertaining Argentina-Ivory Coast game right now. Ivory Coast has an exciting style, but allows too much space on defense to the dangerous Agentinian attack. 2-0 at the half for Argentina on goals by Saviola and Crespo.

Saw the first few minutes of the England-Paraguay snorefest before I left this morning. Saw the only goal (David Beckham free kick deflecting off a Paraguay defender, Gamarra) as I was walking out the door.

At least the Germany-Costa Rica opener was entertaining, though I hate German soccer. None of the teams in Group A, or Group B look like they will go very far.

[89Hen]

Watching an entertaining Argentina-Ivory Coast game right now. Ivory Coast has an exciting style, but allows too much space on defense to the dangerous Agentinian attack. 2-0 at the half for Argentina on goals by Saviola and Crespo.
2nd goal was offsides, all three Argentina players were off. :confused: Also, I'd give a yellow card to the coach of Argentina for his players begging for yellow cards every time an Ivory Coast player goes down. What a bunch of friggin prima-mara-donna's. :nonono2:

[HiHiYikas]

2nd goal was offsides, all three Argentina players were off. :confused: Also, I'd give a yellow card to the coach of Argentina for his players begging for yellow cards every time an Ivory Coast player goes down. What a bunch of friggin prima-mara-donna's. :nonono2:
No doubt...

Officiating definitely not favoring the I.C. in this match. Terrible foul in the box on Argentina in 69th minute - ought to be PK for IC.

And yes, the Tri/Tob-Sweden match was a lot of fun to watch for a 0-0 tie.

[Mr. C]

2nd goal was offsides, all three Argentina players were off. :confused: Also, I'd give a yellow card to the coach of Argentina for his players begging for yellow cards every time an Ivory Coast player goes down. What a bunch of friggin prima-mara-donna's. :nonono2:
I don't have much love for Argentina, despite their high skill level. They are a bunch of cry-babies and they are also one of the most dirty teams (Germany also fits this category) around. They have been fouling like crazy. Worst referee yet in the World Cup. He isn't calling anything.

On the first Argentina goal, Crespo was in a passive offsides position (not playing the ball), Saviola played it with perfect timing and was onside. The second goal was a mistake clearing the free kick.

Drogba just scored a great goal to make it 2-1 with 8 minutes left.

[th0m]

Holland - Serbia tomorrow! Hopefully my Orangemen can pull out an impressive W!

I've been waiting for this for sooooo long...

ORANJE! :D

PS. Did you know that there are currently 4 Dutch coaches at the WC? (Holland, Trinidad & Tobago, Korea, and Australia) Hopefully they will all perform well, T&T already did its part ;)

[Mr. C]

Holland is in a tough group. Hopefully, the Orange will (they should) beat Serbia & Montenegro (is this the year of the amperstand in the World Cup, or what?). I never have liked the style of play from the Baltic countries and they have always had the reputation of being among the dirtiest in Europe, with lots of fouling etc. The Dutch have always had a lot of style since the Total Football days of Johan Cryuff and company. They are easy to like.

[TheValleyRaider]

Minus the typical theatrics, I was impressed by Argentina and to a lesser degree Ivory Coast. It was an entertaining game to watch with some decent chances for both teams. Certainly Argentina have some depth, but more importantly picked up a win, which can only help boost their confidence after their rough showing in Korea. Look for them to keep rolling, especially if Riquelme can continue to play like he did today. Ivory Coast need to do a better job moving while not with the ball and passing around more. They kept trying to beat the defenders one v. one and could never quite get it through. While both Argie goals were onside, they should have been whistled for a PK on the Drogba takedown, that was a bad miss by the ref. We'll see how their performances look compared to the Dutch and Serbs tomorrow.

T&T deserves every bit of credit not only for stopping the Swedes, not only for doing it a man down for the entire second half (bad call on the red card, Avery John got the ball there), but for continuing to press forward while doing so. Their chances in the second half were as good as Sweden's, and they really could have pulled the really big upset. Certainly a better performance than Costa Rica for a CONCACAF squad. Sweden should have some questions to answer after they were unable to put away a team they should have. Only really saw Beckham's goal in the England-Paraguay game, but it sounds like England has their work cut out for them as well with a generally uninspiring performance. But they still have 2 more points than Sweden. Group B could be very interesting, although ultimately looks weak. If the Germany we saw yesterday ditches the offside trap and plays some real defense, they'll be in the quarters fairly easily.

Tomorrow:
Netherlands - Serbia
Mexico - Iran
Angola - Portugal

[blur2005]

Trinidad and Tobago vs. Sweden was a very entertaining 0-0 draw, with a lot of credit going to the Soca Warriors for sticking with it when they went down to ten men and to Shaka Hislop for some excellent goalkeeping that was key in maintaining the tie. At the same time, Sweden blew numerous chances in this game and really could've scored a few times. But it was fun to see T&T get a point when no one thought it would happen.

I didn't bother watching all of the England-Paraguay game on TiVo because my friend said that outside of Beckham's free kick goal in the third minute, aided by the head of Paraguay's Carlos Gamarra, the game was painful and boring to watch. Looks like Sven Goran-Eriksson's willing to play ugly until Wayne Rooney is fit enough to play.

The Côte d'Ivoire-Argentina game was heartbreaking in a lot of ways for anyone who was cheering for the Ivorians (like me and my four friends watching it with me), as the Elephants seemed to outplay Argentina, but continually botch every opportunity they had, outside of Drogba's goal in the 81st minute, which was too little too late. Argentina, on the other hand, seemed to be less dominant and have fewer chances, yet took advantage of its two best scoring chances to score. But to do well in the World Cup, you have to finish your chances, so hats off to Argentina for winning a tough game.

[GeauxColonels]

Watching The Netherlands vs Serbia & Montenegro. Pretty entertaining game. Very physical with some good chances on both sides.

Anyone else think that it's unfair that The Netherlands has to face 2 nations at once?! :D

[ISUMatt]

Especially since MOntenegro just got its independance this week!!! :) Nonetheless the Netherlands win a good game 1-0...The sea of Orange was awesome to see!!!

[blur2005]

I was surprised there was no mention of the fact that Serbia and Montenegro just split after a referendum in Montenegro barely passed to become independent, prompting Serbia to also declare itself independent of the Union of Serbia and Montenegro. If the announcers did comment on it, I don't recall hearing it and I watched most minutes of the game, though I occasionally was switching back and forth with the French Open final.

[blur2005]

Just a thought, but as Americans, between Mexico and Iran, who do you cheer for? In terms of politics, I would side with Mexico but as this is soccer, I'm cheering for Iran, as I could never bring myself to cheer for Mexico in soccer.

[th0m]

Whoa, pretty sweet game between Holland vs. Serbia. Glad we came out on top. We seemed to utilize our chances a bit more. Lots of Orange, as usual :) It was to be expected, we are the closest to Germany in our group, plus usually have a sizeable following.

[TheValleyRaider]

Just a thought, but as Americans, between Mexico and Iran, who do you cheer for? In terms of politics, I would side with Mexico but as this is soccer, I'm cheering for Iran, as I could never bring myself to cheer for Mexico in soccer.

I'm tired of these stuck-up Euros :smiley_wi trashing CONCACAF. Too bad Costa Rica played poorly against Germany, but good showings from T&T and Mexico help us out. Go CONCACAF!

[nick9c]

Keep an eye out for ex-Furman star #8 Clint "Deuce" Dempsey - he's da man!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucGLGjvT58Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6Di8QT98Zk&search=

[TheValleyRaider]

Didn't really see the Dutch in action today, but they got the win, so they'll take the 3 points like the English did at worst. Serbia could also be dangerous, especially defensively, but I can't judge what I didn't see.

Mexico and Iran played a fairly boring game, but the Mexicans finally put on the pressure in the 2nd half to get the winning goals. Iran was relatively unimpressive, and I have a hard time seeing them do much this time around. Portugal looked good early on, but seemed to settle back and take it easy by the end of the 1st half. Angola also looked more impressive than Ivory Coast did in terms of chances and movement, both on and off the ball. They could easily beat Iran, and I wonder if they could steal a point or 3 from Mexico to surprise into the next round.

Halfway through the first group games, and Argentina's probably the best team so far that I've seen, but this is with Brazil, France, Italy and the Czechs all still to come. And of course the Americans :nod:

Noon tomorrow baby!
USA!
USA!
USA!

[blur2005]

The opening match of Day 3 was a great game. The Netherlands greatly entertained anyone watching that game with great possession soccer and Arjen Robben showed just how good he can be. But after that, the other two games were kind of weak. The worst game was probably the highest scoring game, as there were long periods of poor play between the goals. The Portugal-Angola game was kind of like the Paraguay-England game, with the early goal for Portugal proving the difference. I do think the Portugal-Angola game was better than England-Paraguay, but neither game was spectacular or anything. This is a sad day for American soccer fans, with archrival Mexico getting a win (oh how I hated to see that). Hopefully, tomorrow will be a bright day, which will certainly be the case if USA can top the powerful Czechs in Gelsenkirchen. Go USA!

[TexasTerror]

Would really be nice if the USA were to get atleast a tie against the Czechs. A win would be sensational and really put the USA in a comfortable position. A loss would mean the USA would have to get some points against Italy, which will be very tough to come by...

[bodoyle]

<----Is taking a 2 hour lunch today to watch USA game against the czech's. :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :rotateh: :rotateh: :rotateh:

USA!! USA!!

http://members.aol.com/mrcser84/images/usa%20flag.jpg

[AppGuy04]

Anybody know if the Australia/Japan game has a live link?

[AppGuy04]

If you guys wanna watch live on the computer, go to this site and download the player: http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/

[Blue Hen Nation]

I'm heading out today to watch the U.S. play. GO Red, White Blue! :hurray:

[bodoyle]

Japan was winning 1-0 but the Aussies scored a goal in the 84th, 89th and 90th minutes to win 3-1:eek:

[Hansel]

US down 2-0 not looking good, I missed the first half hour due to a meeting (but did receive text message updates), I was really hoping for a point out of this game

[bodoyle]

Yea, it will be next to impossible for us to get out of Pool Play if we don't tie this thing up somehow. I dont think we'll be able to tie it.

[bodoyle]

We would most likely need 7 points to advance (2 wins at 3 points each and 1 point for a draw in 3 games). If we lost this game, which looks likely, we can only max out at 6 points. :(

[bodoyle]

And......we're done. 3-0

[SunCoastBlueHen]

And......we're done. 3-0

A disappointing start, to say the least. : smh :

[Blue Hen Nation]

Simply put, the Czechs were just too good for us. They completely dominated a lethargic and uninspired US squad. :bang:

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Simply put, the Czechs were just too good for us. They completely dominated a lethargic and uninspired US squad. :bang:


That's why we focus on American football. Anyone who thought we had a legit chance of winning the Cup was crazy.

[Blue Hen Nation]

That's why we focus on American football. Anyone who thought we had a legit chance of winning the Cup was crazy.

Anyone that understands the sport clearly knows they don't have a chance at winning it all. I think most fans are looking for a respectable finish in their bracket. At best, maybe they make it through to round two.

[bodoyle]

The fact that we were ranked 5th in the FIFA Standings was a complete joke. When they talked to Landon Donovon a few weeks ago he said that was a joke and they were 8th or 9th at the best. We can beat Ghana and Italy, but I don't know if that will be enough. Onyl way that could be would be if Czech Republic loses to Ghana or Italy. Ghana I don't think will get a point in Pool Play. That way Italy, Czech Republie and USA all get 1 loss. Unfortunately then it goes to goal differential and we are in trouble there -3 already

[TheValleyRaider]

The fact that we were ranked 5th in the FIFA Standings was a complete joke. When they talked to Landon Donovon a few weeks ago he said that was a joke and they were 8th or 9th at the best. We can beat Ghana and Italy, but I don't know if that will be enough. Onyl way that could be would be if Czech Republic loses to Ghana or Italy. Ghana I don't think will get a point in Pool Play. That way Italy, Czech Republie and USA all get 1 loss. Unfortunately then it goes to goal differential and we are in trouble there -3 already

Our best case scenario right now is a Ghana-Italy tie, and having the Czechs win out, hopefully by good margins as well. Give them the 9 points and the group. Wins against Italy and Ghana will be tough, but certainly doable. As I type this, Italy rams one off the bottom of the crossbar that just ricochets out. It's gonna be interesting. We're in trouble, but it's not over yet.

As for today, we played like crap. Hats off to the Czechs for working their gameplan to near perfection. As an Arsenal fan, I'm glad to see Rosicky play well. However, we needed to play better. Too many times they just turned and passed backwards. There was no flow, no pressure, Donovan and Beasley were complete non-factors. Eddie Johnson should start Saturday, he was the best player on the field for us. Reyna's shot that hit the post seemed to really deflate the team more than it should have. Right now they need to regroup and come out and really attack Italy.

Unfortunately this ruined a day that started pretty well with the match of the tournament so far in Australia-Japan. What a game that was.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Italy just scored, 1-0

[blur2005]

A very sad day for American soccer fans, as our team was thoroughly outclassed by what is easily one of the best teams in the world, the Czech Republic. The game might've have been a lot different had Jan Koller not scored on a header in the 5th minute, as giving up an early goal was pretty much the worst-case scenario for the United States. Also, if Reyna's shot had gone in, things could've been very different. But alas, it didn't happen. The best case for the Italy-Ghana game would've been a draw, but Italy won 2-0. Had Ghana gotten a penalty kick late in the game on a play that might've been a foul, it could've been a tie, as Italy's goal towards the end might never have occurred. But now the U.S. is faced with what is more than an uphill challenge. To advance, the U.S. really needs to beat both Italy and Ghana, an incredibly tall order (one that is probably impossible, though I'll never say never). To even have a chance of advancing, the U.S. must beat Italy, as it could work out if Italy lost to the U.S. and drew the Czechs, as our victory over Italy would win a tie-breaker. But beating Italy would be incredible. We would have to play far better than we did today, which won't be easy, though there's no way we'll play as poorly as we did today.

And the day started so magnificiently with the Australians' three goals in eight minutes...

[Mr. C]

The USA's play was an utter mess today. Got to question some of the moves, like starting DeMarcus Beasley (Appalachian State's DaVon Fowlkes' cousin) on the right side, instead of his normal left half slot. But the Czechs made us pay for every mistake. Maybe they are better than people thought. Certainly not the "tired and old" squad they were made out to be. Great games from Nedved and Rosicky. I would expect the Czechs to win this tough group.

The USA will be fine for advancing, if they beat Italy and Ghana (not ties at this point, with a minus-3 goal differential). As long as the USA wins and the Czechs take care of business (beat Ghana and win or tie against Italy), the USA gets through. Whoever finishes second is done in the second round against Brazil anyway.

[SU Jag]

Allof these teams need to fire their O.C, noone can put any points on the board...............................wait a minute this is soccer, nevermind!xcoffeex

[bodoyle]

Mr. C - "better then people thought" :nono: They are #2 in the world behind Brasil.

[The Gadfly]

The US played like little b!tches today. They didn't challenge the Czechs for the ball at all. It seemed as though they were too scared to go to the ball. They are a pure embarassment to the country :mad: .

[blur2005]

The USA will be fine for advancing, if they beat Italy and Ghana (not ties at this point, with a minus-3 goal differential). As long as the USA wins and the Czechs take care of business (beat Ghana and win or tie against Italy), the USA gets through.
Wasn't this comment supposed to have a ... around it, because if it wasn't, you must not be aware of what an incredible uphill battle beating both Italians and Ghanans will be...beating Italy will be very very difficult and Ghana isn't exactly a team you can walkover.

[kardplayer]

Wasn't this comment supposed to have a ... around it, because if it wasn't, you must not be aware of what an incredible uphill battle beating both Italians and Ghanans will be...beating Italy will be very very difficult and Ghana isn't exactly a team you can walkover.

Almost everyone here needs to take a deep breath...

Ghana is the #48 team in the world according to the FIFA rankings. Tall order or not, if the US can't beat them, they don't deserve to go to the round of 16. The good news is, its their third game, so they'll have a reasonable idea of what they need to do score wise in order to make it through.

Beating Italy (#13) is an entirely different story, but its not impossible.

Yesterday, the US looked like Hampton of '05. Highly ranked after a string of wins against lesser opponents, they got into the playoffs and got stomped.

[AppGuy04]

Korea and Togo playing now. I'm watching live streaming. Check the link I posted previosuly if you want to do the same

[AppGuy04]

Togo scores, leads previous semifinalist Korea 1-0

[Tribefan]

Don't pay attention to the FIFA rankings. That system makes the BCS Computers look like they make sense. Brazil is the clear number one and beyond that it's totally unclear.

I follow the US team quite a bit. If the US played it's game then they could have forced a draw or won. They looked flat and unenergetic. As for starting Beasley on the wrong side. Who cares? He was moved back and he still had no impact.

I hope Bruce Arena makes the team run suicides today, that and no orange slices and Pizza Hut after practice.

[griz37]

Togo scores, leads previous semifinalist Korea 1-0

How big of an upset would this be if Togo holds on?

[bodoyle]

2-1 S Korea

[AppGuy04]

Looks like they are going down, valiant effort though, 2-1 S Korea in the 89th min

South Korea wins first World Cup game not on their home soil

[Ivytalk]

Ugghh! Czech-mate!:p

[AppGuy04]

Suisee and French playing now, this should be a good game

[AppGuy04]

France and Switzerland tied 0-0 at the half

[Pard4Life]

France and Switzerland tied 0-0 at the half

France totally blew it on that break away by Robiery, and the Swiss rang the post.... good match so far.

[LeopardFan04]

It ends in a scoreless draw...tough game...8 yellow cards?! I think some of these guys are going to run into problems because of that down the road...

[GannonFan]

France totally blew it on that break away by Robiery, and the Swiss rang the post.... good match so far.

Good match??? That game is an example of why so many in the U.S. remain either neutral towards soccer or actually dislike it - that match was slow all throughout, way too much passing with too little effect, and just ultimately a boor. That was easily the least appealing match of the cup so far. You would have to be Swiss to have enjoyed that one. Yuck.

[AppGuy04]

Brazil is up next, should not be boring at all

[AppGuy04]

Croatia easily has the ugliest jerseys i've ever seen

[GannonFan]

Croatia easily has the ugliest jerseys i've ever seen

I love the checkerboard look - so distictive. Can't diss the "kit". ;)

[AppGuy04]

Brazil up 1-0 at half on goal in the last few minutes

[AppGuy04]

Brazil wins 1-0, but still an exciting game nonetheless

[Pard4Life]

Good match??? That game is an example of why so many in the U.S. remain either neutral towards soccer or actually dislike it - that match was slow all throughout, way too much passing with too little effect, and just ultimately a boor. That was easily the least appealing match of the cup so far. You would have to be Swiss to have enjoyed that one. Yuck.

:confused: I don't know which match you were watching but there was some action and I enjoyed it... no way it was the least appealing.. try England vs. Paraguay.. now that was lame.

[Pard4Life]

Brazil wins 1-0, but still an exciting game nonetheless

Yes, excitnig.. Croatia is very good... like I said two weeks ago on here.. this Group is very underated and more competitive than it seems.

[th0m]

That ref was definitely wrong on quite a lot of occasions. I've actually seen a game (think it was qualification in Asia for the WC or smth) where there were 16 yellow cards, so it can get worse ;)

Too bad Brazil beat Croatia, I was pulling for the upset. Amazing crowd though, they were cheering their team like they were winning until the end of the game. That's how it's supposed to be.

[Go Poly]

No, I'm not watching. Frankly I don't find it interesting. Although I sure like to see any American team do well...doesn't seem the American team has got the mustard to do any damage though.

[TheValleyRaider]

Wasn't paying too much attention to Brazil-Croatia, but Brazil certainly looked beatable from what I saw. Not necessarily by the Croats or anyone else in the group, but certainly beatable. And where the heck was Ronaldo? :confused:

France was unimpressive today as well. Zidane and Henry want to play two different styles, and Ribery, for all his talent, looked a little shell-shocked out there at times. Their teamwork was sorely lacking, and they may not last as long as some (including myself) predicted. Or it could be that the Swiss style matches up well with them, in which case the first good defensive team they meet that can score will beat them. The Swiss actually reminded me somewhat of the Americans from 2002, well-disciplined and a good counter-attack. Their lack of real finishing ability will probably keep them from making too much noise.

Togo and Korea played a pretty entertaining game in the morning. Lots of action, lots of quickness from both teams. The Red Card probably doomed Togo in the end, but I came away fairly impressed. Korea's discipline and speed could give France and Switzerland trouble in the near future as well.

[AppGuy04]

Wasn't paying too much attention to Brazil-Croatia, but Brazil certainly looked beatable from what I saw. Not necessarily by the Croats or anyone else in the group, but certainly beatable. And where the heck was Ronaldo? :confused:

France was unimpressive today as well. Zidane and Henry want to play two different styles, and Ribery, for all his talent, looked a little shell-shocked out there at times. Their teamwork was sorely lacking, and they may not last as long as some (including myself) predicted. Or it could be that the Swiss style matches up well with them, in which case the first good defensive team they meet that can score will beat them. The Swiss actually reminded me somewhat of the Americans from 2002, well-disciplined and a good counter-attack. Their lack of real finishing ability will probably keep them from making too much noise.

Togo and Korea played a pretty entertaining game in the morning. Lots of action, lots of quickness from both teams. The Red Card probably doomed Togo in the end, but I came away fairly impressed. Korea's discipline and speed could give France and Switzerland trouble in the near future as well.

Ronaldo doesn't exist anymore, his twin has gained 30 lbs and still plays for Brazil, thats about as close as its gonna get

[blur2005]

Ronaldo --> bench
Robinho --> starting lineup

That'll give Brazil 11 players instead of 10.5...or 11.5 if you think of it in terms of Ronaldo's weight gain.

I think Brazil will probably have much better finishing from here on out, as they could have scored a few times before Kaka's goal. Croatia could've tied the game or maybe pulled out a victory if they hadn't wasted so many good opportunities.

[thirdgendin]

We would most likely need 7 points to advance (2 wins at 3 points each and 1 point for a draw in 3 games). If we lost this game, which looks likely, we can only max out at 6 points. :(

Why would we need 7 points to advance? If we beat Italy and Ghana, the only way we don't advance is if we end up in a three-way tie for first and lose the tiebreaker. And if we beat Italy, I don't see how they'll beat the Czech Rep.

I see Ghana going 0-3, making Saturday's match with Italy the real key for the U.S.

[th0m]

Assuming that Ghana loses everything and the US beating Italy (It would make my day) the Czech vs. Italy game is pivotal for all three teams.

[AppGuy04]

Today's games:
Spain vs Ukraine- 9amEST first game for both teams
Tunisia vs Saudi Arabia- NoonEST first game for both teams
Germany(1-0-0) vs Poland(0-1-0) 3pmEST

[AppGuy04]

Anybody been using that link I posted for the live streaming, I've been watching everyday, its awesome

[89Hen]

France and Switzerland tied 0-0
Told you guys France was overrated. :nod:

[AppGuy04]

Told you guys France was overrated. :nod:

They were saying on the broadcast that France could be a semifinalist or not even make it out of group play, you never know which team will show up

[AppGuy04]

Spain up 1-0 in the 14th minute

[AppGuy04]

make that 2-0 in the 18th minute

[AppGuy04]

3-0, 50th minute

[bodoyle]

That should not have been a red card. That was a weak penalty; not that it matters the way the Ukraine is playing.

[AppGuy04]

That should not have been a red card. That was a weak penalty; not that it matters the way the Ukraine is playing.

Agreed, unless they score, it won't matter

[AppGuy04]

4-0 now

[AppGuy04]

If they were playing a better team, that Spanish keeper would be crucified

[AppGuy04]

Finally over, 4-0 Spain win

[thirdgendin]

At least the U.S. doesn't have the worst loss of the tournament now.

[TheValleyRaider]

The PK may have been BS, but Spain completely outclassed Ukraine out there. I was surprised not to see Raul in the starting lineup, but Spain could easily get out of this group with 9 points if that's what they'll do to Shevchenko and Co. Too bad winning Group H will get them Brazil in the Quarters.

Did anyone see the end to the Tunisia-Saudi Arabia match? SA scored late to tie it at 1 after Tunisia had a sick goal for the early lead. The Saudis scored again in about the 82nd minute for the lead, only to see Tunisia tie it again in the second minute of stoppage time. Wild game, 1 point apiece.

[AppGuy04]

At least the U.S. doesn't have the worst loss of the tournament now.

my first thought exactly after that 4th goal

[bodoyle]

Yea that was a great goal in the 90th minute for Tunisia.

[AppGuy04]

Germany and Poland now

Germany has NEVER lost to Poland and this is a must win for Poland

[bodoyle]

Go Polska! I just dont like Germany. Klose is a hellua player though.

[jwfgeol]

Germany has NEVER lost to Poland
Of course, they've only played three times and one of those was a draw :p :)

[bodoyle]

Goooooooooooooooooooal

1-0 Germany wins. they scored it in stopppage time. Oliver Neuville puts the biscuit in the basket....damn germans

[th0m]

Damnit. This ALWAYS happens. Like Gary Lineker used to say: You play two halves of football, 45 minutes each, and at the end the Germans win. I always (well except when they play a team like Brazil, Italy or Argentina) root against Germany, but damn, you gotta hand it to them. They did deserve to win, although I'd rather see them grab 1 point instead of 3 points. Now they're practically in the 2nd round already. GREAT atmosphere though, mainly from the Polish supporters who were outnumbered 10k to 56k!

Did not expect Spain to start out the way they did. Ukrain will most likely still advance with wins over S-A and Tunisia, they were both horrible really. This has got to be the weakest group overall. Ukrain's under-21 team looked very promising (lost to the Dutch in the final, 3-0, although they beat them in the group-phase) but this did not translate to their 'real' team. Lots of questionable off-side calls against Shevchenko in the first half though, but a lot of them were justified as well. He must've been off-side like 10 times or so.

[TheValleyRaider]

The Germany-Poland game was one of the more entertaining ones so far. I was pulling for Poland to finally get the win, but twas not to be, it seems. I did think they were in big trouble once they picked up the red card, but then had to reassess after Germany hit the crossbar twice :eek: on one sequence in the 90th minute. It was a good one, no doubt tomorrow's probably won't live up to it. Well, maybe if Trinidad pulls off another upset...

[Mr. C]

Mr. C - "better then people thought" :nono: They are #2 in the world behind Brasil.
There was a ton of talk all over the media about the Czechs being too old and that the USA would beat them easily. As far as the FIFA rankings are concerned, few people take them seriously. The USA is ranked like sixth or something. FIFA doesn't even take those rankings seriously when they seed the field. I haven't heard one soccer "expert" mention the Czechs as a potential favorite. If they were really No. 2, they should meet Brazil in the final. Not a likely occurance, even though the Czechs looked great in their opener.

[TheValleyRaider]

There was a ton of talk all over the media about the Czechs being too old and that the USA would beat them easily. As far as the FIFA rankings are concerned, few people take them seriously. The USA is ranked like sixth or something. FIFA doesn't even take those rankings seriously when they seed the field. I haven't heard one soccer "expert" mention the Czechs as a potential favorite. If they were really No. 2, they should meet Brazil in the final. Not a likely occurance, even though the Czechs looked great in their opener.

But how much of that was overconfidence from the American media and fans? I thought we would beat the Czechs (or at least have a chance) because of their injuries, but you were just as likely to find others who would have placed them at the top of Group E. And if we weren't talking about them before we should be now, although Jan Koller being hurt might slow them down.

[bodoyle]

I thought we could get a draw against them if we played well and they didn't. Nedved is better then anyone on our team and he didn't play well.

[AppGuy04]

Ecudaor and Costa Rica at the half, Ecudaor up 1-0

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Ecudaor and Costa Rica at the half, Ecudaor up 1-0

My 18 yr old brother-in-law is in Ecuador as part of an exchange student program. For his sake, I'm pulling for them to advance. I imagine that it will be quite a festive atmosphere in that little country if they do. :nod:

[Mr. C]

Ecudor has played with skill and style. It will be very interesting to see how they do against Germany. I think the Ecudorians have a good chance to win the group. If they tie Germany, they would win on goal differential.

[Mr. C]

I thought we could get a draw against them if we played well and they didn't. Nedved is better then anyone on our team and he didn't play well.
Most people commenting on the game (and me too) felt Nedved played very well against the USA. He obviously is one of the top midfielders in the world and has made a huge difference with his team since he returned to international play.

[AppGuy04]

Ecuador beats Costa Rica 3-0 and becomes the first team to move to the round of 16

[89Hen]

Boy, England sure is an offensive juggernaut. 0-0 at half against T&T. :rolleyes:

[AppGuy04]

Boy, England sure is an offensive juggernaut. 0-0 at half against T&T. :rolleyes:

not for lack of chances

[GannonFan]

England is having tons of shots but apparently are confused as to where the goal is - tough to score when you don't shoot anywhere near it. Heck, T&T isn't that far behind with shots on goal.

[GannonFan]

Ecuador beats Costa Rica 3-0 and becomes the first team to move to the round of 16

Technically speaking both Ecuador and Germany tied for the honor of being the firsts to move on - they both moved on the moment Ecuador won.

[AppGuy04]

Technically speaking both Ecuador and Germany tied for the honor of being the firsts to move on - they both moved on the moment Ecuador won.

True, but Ecuador was the one actually playing, so I just mentioned them

[AppGuy04]

England finally scores in the 84th minutes, Crouch's height comes in handy, 1-0 England

[AppGuy04]

2-0 England in 1st minute of extra time

Final 2-0, that puts England into the next round

[GannonFan]

Wow, you have to question how long England is going to last after that effort. I thought they would run into trouble in the quarters against probably either Argentina or the Netherlands, but to struggle like they did against T&T, coupled with the lackluster effort against Paraguay, really brings into question whether this team can actually beat a quality side. Heck, playing Germany or Ecuador doesn't look like a sure thing anymore.

[Mr. C]

T&T deserved a better fate. Not impressed with england (lower case intentional). Crouch in particular, scoring the winning goal was galling. He was a cry baby for most of the match. They will probably struggle again against Sweden. Hopefully someone puts the English out in the round of 16.

[TheValleyRaider]

Relatively lame day of games, but some surprises. Ecuador is in the driver's seat of Group A as they have a +5 GD to Germany's +3. Does Ecuador sit back and try to weather the German attack (which has varying degrees of potency), or is it safer to push for the the win and the guaranteed 3 points? El Tri could surface in first place in this group, and seem disciplined enough to give a more talented team like Sweden or England fits.

Well, the bright spot for England is that Rooney seems somewhat healthy, should be playing more as the tournament goes along, and gave them a pretty good spark offensively. But if you want to talk about underachievers, well, there they are. With the star-power on that team, they shouldn't need Rooney to score goals like they did today.

Sweden finally broke through (Ljundberg!), and Paraguay was eliminated as the fairly unimpressive team they were should have been. For as much as people ripped England for how they played, and how tough Sweden found it to score, Paraguay should have been able to capitalize more than they did (read: not at all). Could T&T grab 3 points from a listless Paraguay squad to make for a more than successful maiden Cup voyage.

Tomorrow's games, especially Netherlands-Ivory Coast, look to be better matchups.

[AppGuy04]

Today's games:

Argentina(1-0-0) vs Serbia and Montenegro(0-1-0)- 9am EST

Netherlands(1-0-0) vs Ivory Coast(0-1-0)- Noon EST

Mexico(1-0-0) vs Angola(0-1-0)- 3pm EST

[AppGuy04]

Argentina 1-0 in 7th minute

[GannonFan]

Relatively lame day of games, but some surprises. Ecuador is in the driver's seat of Group A as they have a +5 GD to Germany's +3. Does Ecuador sit back and try to weather the German attack (which has varying degrees of potency), or is it safer to push for the the win and the guaranteed 3 points? El Tri could surface in first place in this group, and seem disciplined enough to give a more talented team like Sweden or England fits.

Well, the bright spot for England is that Rooney seems somewhat healthy, should be playing more as the tournament goes along, and gave them a pretty good spark offensively. But if you want to talk about underachievers, well, there they are. With the star-power on that team, they shouldn't need Rooney to score goals like they did today.

Sweden finally broke through (Ljundberg!), and Paraguay was eliminated as the fairly unimpressive team they were should have been. For as much as people ripped England for how they played, and how tough Sweden found it to score, Paraguay should have been able to capitalize more than they did (read: not at all). Could T&T grab 3 points from a listless Paraguay squad to make for a more than successful maiden Cup voyage.

Tomorrow's games, especially Netherlands-Ivory Coast, look to be better matchups.

England hasn't beaten Sweden since the 60's I believe - tough to see T&T getting through now although they could certainly beat a listless Paraguay team. At least with the two respective fanbases the Sweden/England matchup should be good - both have packed stadiums with their supporters so far. Irregardless, both have a tough road to go - Ecuador is starting to look like a real quality side, and Germany is always tough and now they have the home field advantage to go with it. And if they get past those teams, they have to deal with Argentina or the Netherlands in the quarters, again very tough.

[TheValleyRaider]

Argentina giving a little S&M to S&M, 3-0 Albicelestes late in the first half

[Mr. C]

Argentina is absolutely smoking Serbia-Montenegro (bet there are a lot of Montenegro players on this team). Turned the game on about 10 minutes in (the game started at 6 a.m. out here on the West Coast) and Argentina was already up 1-0. It would be 4-0 on a Crespo goal, but for a really bad offsides call (second bad one in two days, the refs also stole one from Trinadad & Tobago late). Goal No. 3 was one of the best of the tourney as they strung five passes together from around the 18-yard box with the final one a beautiful Crespo back-heel. Argentina hasn't been challenged that much, but they look like one of the best sides in this tournament. The Serbians have fouled like crazy and have been a bunch of cry babies (not much to like about them).

[AppGuy04]

This game has just been a straight up ass kickin so far

[Mr. C]

The Serbs just plain flat gave up in the second half. It's 6-0 and could have easily been 8-0. The ref blows the game over just 22 seconds into extra time (the quickest whistle I've ever seen). Argentina was great, but the Serbs should be ashamed of that gutless performance.

[GannonFan]

Gotta hand it to Argentina though (although I think they are easily the biggest whiners and actors you'll ever see in soccer) they really know how to step on someone's throat and crush them. They have that killer instinct. They're a side I would never want to have to play in a big game.

[bodoyle]

That was a thorough pummelling. If USA scored 6 goals in the tourney, I would be happy.

Ivory Coast has a decent game going 2-1 at the half. They could have tied it up on a 2-on-1 but it was intercepted.

[Mr. C]

Holland's 2-1 win over Ivory Coast was easily one of the most entertaining of the tournament so far. Ivory Coast would be heading on in almost any other group.

[jwfgeol]

Holland's 2-1 win over Ivory Coast was easily one of the most entertaining of the tournament so far. Ivory Coast would be heading on in almost any other group.
Very entertaining indeed. Great attacking and counter-attacking all game long.

[th0m]

Woohoo. And so we advance :D That free kick from van Persie was hard, holy cow. Amazing game, again. Holland - Argentina will be, if it wasn't already, the best groupmatch! Although both already advance, I think either would rather face Mexico instead of Portugal.

[SU Jag]

I've been watching the past few day, and all I can say is that I'm a soccer fan now! Well International soccer the MLS soccer has nothing on that!:nod:

[MarkCCU]

soccer....futbol what?

[TheValleyRaider]

I've been watching the past few day, and all I can say is that I'm a soccer fan now! Well International soccer the MLS soccer has nothing on that!:nod:

MLS is improving, but for top to bottom quality, the English Premier League is as good as it gets. :thumbsup: Spanish La Liga is pretty good too, both of which especially for the type of play you've seen recently. Arsenal (in London) is always a good choice for quality attacking soccer :thumbsup:

Is there a team in this tournament with tougher luck than Ivory Coast? Some great chances, a rocket off the crossbar, and then van Persie's chest on the goalline, plus Drogba's second yellow and running into two of the best looking sides in the tournament so far. If they were in any other group, they'd probably be moving on. Good win for Holland.

Gutsy performance today from Angola. I wasn't sure if they'd make it after getting the red card, but they held on. Combined with a rather uninspiring performance against Iran, Mexico isn't looking too good beyond the Round of 16, given they'll see either the Dutch or Argentina. One of these times I want to see one of the "minnows" break through for the goal and steal 3 points from a team that's overlooking them. Perhaps Italy can be caught napping...:eek: :)

[thirdgendin]

but for a really bad offsides call (second bad one in two days, the refs also stole one from Trinadad & Tobago late).

Mr. C., I remember that goal, but it was clearly offsides from all of the replays I saw.

[TheValleyRaider]

Figured I'd post my thoughts on the big one here, and get this bumped back up.

A lot of heart and effort for the US in their game. And a disgraceful performance from the referee, not exactly fair for both sides, but the Reds on the Americans were not good calls. It's a real shame too, because even 10v10 we probably would have scored and won the game (without even discussing the Beasley goal/non-goal). All that being considered, a great effort for the team to totally outplay a good Italian side. And the beauty of the whole thing is now we're pulling for Italy to beat the Czechs on Thursday. Clint Dempsey starting was a stroke of genius, he was great on the right side, but I was disappointed to not see Eddie Johnson again after how well he played on Monday.

GO USA! BEAT GHANA!

[Tribefan]

If Arena subbed Eddie Johnson in, we could have been looking at 3 points and the first goal in WC history scored with a 9 man side. McBride is great but he was ineffective in the final 20.

[dbackjon]

If Arena subbed Eddie Johnson in, we could have been looking at 3 points and the first goal in WC history scored with a 9 man side. McBride is great but he was ineffective in the final 20.

And then what happens if there is another injury? 8 on 10 is not a way to get any points.

[jwfgeol]

I enjoy watching soccer; however, one thing I can't stand is all the diving, flopping, and faking of injuries. It's so ridiculous when a stretcher comes out and 30 seconds later the guy is running around like nothing happened. This has to be by far the most annoying part of the game (besides some of the refs, of course).

[Tribefan]

And then what happens if there is another injury? 8 on 10 is not a way to get any points.

With 5 minutes left to play? We should take our chances. This is Bruce's last WC as the US HC. He's been riding this wave based on the Mexico and Portugal wins 4 years ago. Time for someone new.

[89Hen]

This is Bruce's last WC as the US HC. He's been riding this wave based on the Mexico and Portugal wins 4 years ago. Time for someone new.
Says the man from The College of the coach from The University. (where's the grain of salt smiley?)

[89Hen]

This is Bruce's last WC as the US HC. He's been riding this wave based on the Mexico and Portugal wins 4 years ago. Time for someone new.
Says the man from The College of the coach from The University. (where's the grain of salt smiley?) ;)

[TypicalTribe]

Says the man from The College of the coach from The University. (where's the grain of salt smiley?) ;)

I was at the College when Arena was the coach at the University and we pretty much despised him, especially since the Tribe was great at the time. I'll always remember ending their winning streak at Busch Field with Claudio Reyna playing for UVA.

However, it's always been clear that Arena is the best soccer coach in the country and I was all for him being brought in after the World Cup debacle in '98.

That being said, I do believe that there's something to be said for needing a new voice at the top at some point. No matter how this Cup ends, I think there are legitimate arguments on both sides and I'll be interested to see how it plays out.

[dbackjon]

England-Sweden tie 2-2, England wins Group B, faces Ecuador. Sweden takes on Germany.

[Tribefan]

Relax 89hen. Bruce Arena and UVA soccer are nowhere near as soft as UVA football and UVA football fans. Good luck getting punched in the neck by Virginia Tech again next season. Your boys will lose to Pittsburgh too...

http://media.putfile.com/UVA

Arena is a smart coach. But we need a team that can attack more. We still haven't scored a true goal through two games. We basically haven't scored in a World Cup since the win against Mexico. That's unacceptable.

[th0m]

Well, that should change when you face Ghana. If you can't score (and win) against them then you have no business in the last 16. I'll tell you what though, that group is definitely a weird one. All teams are still able to go on to the next round... Just win against Ghana and hope that Italy beats the Czech Rep. and you've got, well, bigger things to worry about I guess (Brazil).

[Tribefan]

I wouldn't go so far as to call it a "Group of Death" but it is definitely a group with a degree of parity.

[Tribefan]

Wish this guy had not completely demolished his career. This would have made up the offense gap.

Clint Mathis highlights while playing for Hannover 96:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju8uy...his%20hannover

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhCb7...his%20hannover

[TheValleyRaider]

Well, whoever gets out of our group could certainly be called the survivors, more so than other others groups (even if Arg. and Holland had some difficulties with IC).

Tough luck for England being tied by Sweden, that certainly qualifies a fluky goal, much like Cole's is one of the tournament's best. Hard to say how they'll fair against Ecuador, as I don't believe we saw the South Americans' best today against Germany. The Germans, however, should get by Sweden without too much difficulty. The Swedes have played relatively well, but will struggle against a Germany that has the large crowd behind them and doesn't have the mental block England does about playing them.

[th0m]

I agree. I think Germany will go a long way in this tournament, but will probably strand when they face a team which may be less disciplined, but more talented (ie Argentina, Brasil, Spain). Ecuador had some lopsided victories over Poland and Costa Rica (Poland vs. Costa Rica certainly showed why both teams shouldn't go on to the rd of 16) but may have the capability of beating England, as England seems to have more off-days than on-days. Having said that, I'd rather have Holland face England in the quarters than Ecuador. (though we'll beat either ;))

[dbackjon]

Netherlands and Argentina tie 0-0.

Argentina wins group, plays Mexico next
Netherlands plays Portugal next.

[TheValleyRaider]

Portugal and the Netherlands could actually be fairly close, I certainly wouldn't count Big Phil's team out too easily. I still think the Dutch win though. Mexico is the worst of the seeded teams and Argentina lookes like the best so far. Argentina jumps on them early to make for a long day South of our border.

[th0m]

Yeah Portugal - Netherlands is definitely an interesting matchup. We lost to them in the semi-finals of EURO 2004, and we've actually only beat them once. But they are a bunch of crybabies (just like the Argentinians) so I hope we wil win! :D

[dbackjon]

Crap - Ghana scores

[Mr. C]

It's been a day of bad luck for the USA. Claudio Reyna gets hurt, loses the ball and Ghana scores. Then Ghana gets a horrendous penalty kick call to score again. It should really be 1-0 USA at halftime.

[bodoyle]

Gotta love that penalty call. I mean Gooch was just all over him. Clear call. xidiotx xidiotx xidiotx xidiotx xidiotx

[Mr. C]

Not so. Marcello Balboa, among others, said it was CLEARLY a BAD call. They are both going for the ball. You don't make a call like that in the box, particularly in a World Cup. Very bad officiating, just like the last USA game.

[slycat]

put johnson in the game. i dont understand arenas coaching at all. the guys on the field arent pushing forward. we need two goals so put some offense in. i dont dont know why we played a 4-5-1 today. we need forwards in to score.

GO USA!!!!

[slycat]

there we go johnsons in.
:hurray: :hurray: :hurray:

[Mr. C]

There has to be some serious soul-searching by the USA players. Landon Donovan just plain, flat didn't get it done. If you want to be recognizes as one of the best players, you have to perform at the World Cup level. A lot of chances and POOR finishing by the USA. Donovan's terrible free kick at the edge of the box sealed it for me on his stinky performance.

[Mr. C]

It's a final, 2-1. Until we learn to develop finishers, this is what will happen to us in major competition.

[dbackjon]

Bruce Arena stunk as a coach for this team - his game plan did not work, and he was too stubborn to change it on the fly.

[slycat]

players need to push forward and be more aggressive and bruce arena needs to be fired.

[bodoyle]

Dave I was joking around. :bang: :bang: :bang:

[GannonFan]

Yes, the US has to do some soul searching after this one - granted, they didn't get any help at all from a refereeing standpoint in this World Cup, but when you have a whole half to play against Ghana and you can't muster a single goal, let alone two, then you have to look inside first. Donovan just didn't get anything done - he's not progressed a lick in 4 years and maybe the lack of being able to crack the starting lineup of a decent team in Europe is coming back to haunt him. I've never been a big Reyna fan - he leads this attack and there isn't much to like about how we attack - way too deliberate. Of course, going with a 4-5-1 doesn't help matters either and that brings us to Arena - no one can forget where he took over this team and where they are now, but they're starting to stagnate - not winning in Mexico City during qualifying was one sign of that, the Czech debacle was significant, playing for a tie with Italy and leaving a sub on the bench late in the game was another questionable decision, and the lack of imagination from the US side today was another. Arena has always said he's the man because he wins, now without any wins and only one goal scored by your team, you have to question if he's still got enough moxie left to make this team a more significant force for South Africa in 2010. I'm thinking more and more not - wouldn't mind if we could steal Klingsman away from Germany after this World Cup - he might now a thing or two about creating offense.

[TheValleyRaider]

Disappointing end to another World Cup run. Dempsey was great and I can't wait to see him progress over 4 years (work on the defense some) and then see what he can do in 2010. I would have liked to see more of Eddie Johnson as well. Donovan needs to do some soul-searching, figure out just how he's going to contribute to this team. DaMarcus Beasley has a lot of work to do as well, it looks like. He was way too conservative this year and looked basically uninterested outside of the assist. And as much as I like Bruce for the job he's done and how far he's taken the team, I think he may have stagnated. I've been one of his defenders during the last year and through the first few games, but it seems like he may have lost his touch a bit. Too much inconsistency, not enough variety in the formations (a strength in 2002), and lack of motivation for and from the players. Klinsmann would be quite a steal as a coach, and there are rumors he will leave Germany after the World Cup regardless of what happens.

All that being said, it's tough when your game has to end on a terrible penalty call by the ref. It's a shame when these games are decided by one person like that. Rarely does that happen in other sports in the same way, or as often as it does in Soccer. Still, aside from one 10 minute flurry in the second half, they were generally unimaginitive on offense and unable to generate the kinds of chances needed to score the goals they had to have. Disappointing effort leads to disappointing results. Yes the group was hard, but we weren't ready to handle it.

Unfortunately for Ghana, they lose Essien for the next round, which will probably be the death knell for them, especially since they'll probably face Brazil. As for Italy, I could see them having difficulty with (and possibly being upset by) a physical Australia or Croatia.

[Mr. C]

Dave I was joking around. :bang: :bang: :bang:
I definitely didn't catch that. My bad.

[Mr. C]

Bruce Arena stunk as a coach for this team - his game plan did not work, and he was too stubborn to change it on the fly.
Bruce Arena did a lot for USA soccer, but it is time for a change, with someone who will bring a new tactical flare. Americans like offense and we should hire someone who will develop our offense.

[Mr. C]

Disappointing end to another World Cup run. Dempsey was great and I can't wait to see him progress over 4 years (work on the defense some) and then see what he can do in 2010. I would have liked to see more of Eddie Johnson as well. Donovan needs to do some soul-searching, figure out just how he's going to contribute to this team. DaMarcus Beasley has a lot of work to do as well, it looks like. He was way too conservative this year and looked basically uninterested outside of the assist. And as much as I like Bruce for the job he's done and how far he's taken the team, I think he may have stagnated. I've been one of his defenders during the last year and through the first few games, but it seems like he may have lost his touch a bit. Too much inconsistency, not enough variety in the formations (a strength in 2002), and lack of motivation for and from the players. Klinsmann would be quite a steal as a coach, and there are rumors he will leave Germany after the World Cup regardless of what happens.

All that being said, it's tough when your game has to end on a terrible penalty call by the ref. It's a shame when these games are decided by one person like that. Rarely does that happen in other sports in the same way, or as often as it does in Soccer. Still, aside from one 10 minute flurry in the second half, they were generally unimaginitive on offense and unable to generate the kinds of chances needed to score the goals they had to have. Disappointing effort leads to disappointing results. Yes the group was hard, but we weren't ready to handle it.

Unfortunately for Ghana, they lose Essien for the next round, which will probably be the death knell for them, especially since they'll probably face Brazil. As for Italy, I could see them having difficulty with (and possibly being upset by) a physical Australia or Croatia.
Of all of the sports I've covered, soccer refs are by far the worst of any sport. They have too much say in the outcome of games. This is the one sport probably more than any other that should go to replay to police fouls and give penalties. For crying out loud, the ref even can say how long the game will last. It's the only sport where the clock is not official (at least that I'm aware of), but the official can add time. The linemen don't get the offsides calls right half of the time either (a dumb rule, by the way, why not go to a hockey-type of offsides line instead).

On Jurgen Klinsmann, he lives in the US and has for some time, because he can live a normal life here (unlike Europe). He understands the culture as much as probably any foreign coach would. He would be an excellent choice. Considering his reputation as being "The Dive Master," he could also teach our forwards a few tricks.

[Tribefan]

Bruce brought the US to respectability. Now we need a coach who can give our players the killer instinct that they lack. Klinnsman would be a good choice if we can get him.

It's silly to demand that we have an American coach. It's commonplace to have a coach of a different nationality.

I heard Arena's comments about the PK. He needs to stop dwelling on this.

[Mr. C]

Klinsmann would probably do cartwheels if he was offered the job. The USA trains in Southern California and Klinsmann lives in Southern California. He actually commutes twice a month to Germany in his job as national team coach now.

[Tribefan]

That would be an interesting choice because Arena and Klinsmann are good friends and Klinnsman has played a role in advancing US Soccer. He is definitely the type of person we are looking for.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

The one think i take away from this years world cup is our team is a bunch of whiners. I've never heard players at this "level" complain so much. I understand that the officiating in soccer is bad to real bad but to constantly use it as an excuse is pathetic. All i've heard today is how the officiating cost USA a chance to to advance. Today Arena was saying that the pool draw was too tough and the USA didn't get a fair sake, suck it up and get better. Sorry but the USA isn't advancing because we're not good enough on a world level. The whining about everything is some of the worst i ever heard. Even it's true to some extent it doesn't mask the fact that our players need to start playing in Europe more and here less.

[griz37]

The one think i take away from this years world cup is our team is a bunch of whiners. I've never heard players at this "level" complain so much. I understand that the officiating in soccer is bad to real bad but to constantly use it as an excuse is pathetic. All i've heard today is how the officiating cost USA a chance to to advance. Today Arena was saying that the pool draw was too tough and the USA didn't get a fair sake, suck it up and get better. Sorry but the USA isn't advancing because we're not good enough on a world level. The whining about everything is some of the worst i ever heard. Even it's true to some extent it doesn't mask the fact that our players need to start playing in Europe more and here less.

:bow: Well put! I was just watching Sportscenter & cannot believe much our team is crying about the calls. Sorry but that pentaly kick awarded to Ghana had nothing to do w/the fact the Americans only scored 1 goal in 3 games. Our draw was too tough? Give me a break. Before this tournament started nobody said a word about Ghana. They didn't complain about having to play the US, Italy & Czechs. They just went out & scored goals to advance! I am not much of a soccer fan, but this whole crybaby attitude has a left a very bad taste in my mouth for the US team.

[Tribefan]

4 shots on goal for three games is horrendous. 60% of the blame goes to Arena, 30% goes to the players and 10% should go to the fans who set ridiculously high expectations.

We need a coach who can manage a team built around playing attacking soccer. Americans love seeing creative athleticism in their athletes. Onyewu plays great defense but that won't capture anyone's imagination.

Claudio Reyna is retiring from international play. This is a good thing for him. Reyna at this point in his career is just not what we need in a playmaking midfielder and that is what Arena and his teammates expect of him. Reyna is a better suited as a sweeper IMO.

The one bright spot from this tournament IMO is the defense. With the defense from the last World Cup, Czech Republic would have scored 4-5 goals on the US (Jeff Agoos anyone?). With players like Conrad, Boca and Onyewu maybe Germany wouldn't have scored that goal and maybe Poland would not have scored 3 goals on us.

Speaking of Agoos, that's another incident of Arena's stubbornness and his comfort level with his former UVA stars. Agoos should have never seen the field in 2002, and Reyna should not have been the creative force in our offense.

Arena should be allowed to make a nice graceful exit and it should be done respectfully. I bet he ends up coaching for Team Canada, Costa Rica or back in the MLS. I can't see any European sides hiring him.

[TypicalTribe]

:bow: Well put! I was just watching Sportscenter & cannot believe much our team is crying about the calls. Sorry but that pentaly kick awarded to Ghana had nothing to do w/the fact the Americans only scored 1 goal in 3 games. Our draw was too tough? Give me a break. Before this tournament started nobody said a word about Ghana. They didn't complain about having to play the US, Italy & Czechs. They just went out & scored goals to advance! I am not much of a soccer fan, but this whole crybaby attitude has a left a very bad taste in my mouth for the US team.

This team lacked a mental toughness that the group from four years ago had. It showed in how poorly they played in the beginning of games and the end of halves. Their focus just was not consistently sharp. They seemed to be on their heels much more than the team from four years ago. For a team ranked as high as they were, why was there such a lack of confidence on the field? I kept hearing about how falling behind early to the Czechs really was a big blow. How is that possible if you're supposed to be a good international team? I think Arena bought into his own press quite a bit and made moves that didn't make sense, trying to show how much of a genius he was. However, the game plans and lineups didn't seem to work and the team had a fragile psyche.

It wasn't nearly as bad as '98, but this was almost more disappointing because there was plenty of talent on this team but a number of factors led to some serious underachieving.

By the way, would it be so hard just to send a couple of balls at the net just to keep the goalie honest? Four shots in 3 games? That's absolutely ridiculous to me. It looked like no one had any confidence just to fire the ball on net, especially Donovan, who had a deer-in-headlights look the whole tournament. It's no wonder he doesn't like playing in Europe. It's too big a stage for him.