Euro 2012 (Football)

[Bewolf]

Yep, starts today and needs a thread!

Today
Greece vs Poland
later
Russia vs Czech Republic

Pressing thumbs for Poland and the Czech Republic. Anybody else watching? :D

[pupo162]

off we go:

poland and Czech republic will win today.

tomorrow im gonna go with germany and holland as winners...


touhgh as Portuguese:

GOOOOOO PPPPPOORTUUUUUGAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL

[159th_Jester]

I'm trying to watch the Poland V Greece game at the minute..... But my cat keeps sitting on the remote and turning the TV off!!!....... I guess my cat's not a football fan!! :grin:

[Bewolf]

Half time, 1:0 for Poland. Well done guys!!!

Pity though, the games done, with Greece only fielding 10 players now. That was unnessecary.

[pupo162]

talking about turning the tables..... not that greece desearve the goal, but poland sucked 2nd half....


off to the next match :grin:

[Bewolf]

talking about turning the tables..... not that greece desearve the goal, but poland sucked 2nd half....


off to the next match :grin:

10:10 in the end, crazy game. Kudos to the Greeks and their fighting spirit, I did not see that coming =)

Let's see how Russia vs Czech Republic plays out. I have a feeling the Russians will have their go with the Czech Republic, but maybe they can surprise.

[Oldschool61]

Dont you mean soccer??? No thanks, puts me to sleep!! Soccer for poor third world countries lol.

[addman]

Dont you mean soccer??? No thanks, puts me to sleep!! Football is for the whole world except the United States of Isolation lol.

Fixed that for ya!;)

P.S The U.S is becoming a third world country very quickly, get that ball rolling boys! :D

[carguy_]

What a disappointing game. Thought we could have won it. Not enough stamina.:mad:

[arthursmedley]

Dont you mean soccer??? No thanks, puts me to sleep!! Soccer for poor third world countries lol.

It is a pity Oldschool as the USA has built a formidable, entertaining team in recent years and really deserve more support from their countrymen.

Cu at the next world cup:cool: In the meantime;

Come on you Czechs!!!!:-)

[Jatta Raso]

Dont you mean soccer??? No thanks, puts me to sleep!! Soccer for poor third world countries lol.

yeah right... go to bed already

[csThor]

Dont you mean soccer??? No thanks, puts me to sleep!! Soccer for poor third world countries lol.

Not quite ...

http://www.nastyhobbit.org/data/media/1/football-handegg.jpg

[pupo162]

Please guys, dont reply to trolls, lets keep this thread about football and the matches! (Tough i think you are untitled to blindly support your team ( GO PORTUGAL!) )

[Jatta Raso]

truth hurts? :rolleyes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sD_8prYOxo

(sorry pupo couldn't resist)

[pupo162]

there you go!

what a nice play !!

russia 1 - CZE - 0

[Bewolf]

1:0 Russia in the 14th minute, let's see if that wakes up the Czechs.

[Jatta Raso]

good play from Russia..

[pupo162]

russia is playing really nice.

So, how about you folks start reavealing who are you vulching for? some revilaty isnt unhealthy.

Pretty sure there are some germans here :evil:

edit: WOW!, russia are really goign for it! FAST and effective. amazing.

[arthursmedley]

Wow, Russia got goood! Especially on the break. Gonna be some great matches against Spain and Germany if they can keep this up.

[nearmiss]

truth hurts? :rolleyes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sD_8prYOxo

(sorry pupo couldn't resist)


It's funny... too bad so many people have never played American football.

The thinking part as Cleese decribes it is far from real..

When the ball is hiked from the center to the quarter back all hell breaks loose and everyone is going everywhere at once. It is helter skelter to the extreme... and worse still the physical contact is coming from all directions.

Most of the time, if you aren't in the right place the whole play goes down and you never knew where the ball was. LOL

Soccer is definitely a wonderful game, but American football is 10 times more exciting. Every time a play goes off you never know what to expect. Soccer slips up on you with all the build up and let downs. You have to watch every second of a soccer match, if you are watching live or you may miss the one winning goal of the match.

At least with football, between downs you have a pee break or time to go get some more chips or beer. LOL

If a side gets up a point or two in a soccer match the game play goes to defense, clear the ball, delay the game and don't give the opposite team a chance to score.

That never happens in American football, except maybe during the last few minutes of a game. All it takes is one well excuted play... after the commercials as Cleese says... to break the game wide open.

Both sports are very excellent and I don't think there should be any criticism of either as being better or worse. They are different as night and day, and the fact that they are both referred to as football makes no difference.

I've have played amd coached both. I like soccer better. Mostly, because I never felt I could give my best perfornance wrapped in all the football armor.

[Bewolf]

russia is playing really nice.

So, how about you folks start reavealing who are you vulching for? some revilaty isnt unhealthy.

Pretty sure there are some germans here :evil:

edit: WOW!, russia are really goign for it! FAST and effective. amazing.

I give you a hint. I am not rooting for Portugal >: ) (Only if you beat Spain :D )

http://www.e-forwards.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/german-fan-34.jpeg

Russia is good, much better able to keep the ball. Not looking good for the Czechs.

[Ze-Jamz]

I give you a hint. I am not rooting for Portugal >: ) (Only if you beat Spain :D )

http://www.e-forwards.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/german-fan-34.jpeg

Russia is good, much better able to keep the ball. Not looking good for the Czechs.

She'd get it...

[Ze-Jamz]

I give you a hint. I am not rooting for Portugal >: ) (Only if you beat Spain :D )

http://www.e-forwards.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/german-fan-34.jpeg

Russia is good, much better able to keep the ball. Not looking good for the Czechs.

....Twice

[pupo162]

i give up, im vocuhign for germany if i can have her... ;)

[Bewolf]

get in line ; )


2:1

This is getting interesting again.

[pupo162]

now that puts an end to the match i guess.

GG by russia, the czhecs almost recovered. 3 great goals.

EDIT:

LOL, spoke too soon.

now that is a kill! what a goal!!

[Bewolf]

4:1

So much for that

[Bewolf]

What's up, Kaaskopjes?
Denmark having a 1:0 lead and only 15 minutes left?

If that goes on this way we won't have our game, hehe

[Jatta Raso]

there goes Holland.. maybe good for us having it with Germany in about an hour

[arthursmedley]

Three really good games so far. Denmark haven't beaten Holland since 1967!! Portugal v Germany should be a cracker!

[Robo.]

Very good games in the start. Poor Czechs... but I hope they recover.

Germanyyyy!!!

[Bewolf]

And now, second game in the group of death.

Germany never did too well in the group stages, lessee how that goes

[csThor]

What was that, Holland? Where was the fast attack football we were used from you? :shock:

[pupo162]

holland was a let down :( ... unfortunatly Denmark seems to be growing strong too...


off we go gents, to all the germans, specially Bewolf:

We are going to kick your sorry arse into to the ground and smash you, score 10 goals, and break several world records!!! or in its poltie manner: good luck! :grin:

[major_setback]

Dansk Dynamit!!!
Very well done Danes. You played the game in exactly the right way for a win, and managed to pull it if with grace.
Please do the same in the coming games, I would love to see that.

[Bewolf]

holland was a let down :( ... unfortunatly Denmark seems to be growing strong too...


off we go gents, to all the germans, specially Bewolf:

We will try to kick your sorry arse into to the ground and smash you, score 10 goals, and break several world records!!! or in its poltie manner: good luck! :grin:

fixed that for you >: )
good luck to you folks, may the better team prevail :D

[Bewolf]

Now that was a dissapointing first half by both teams. There is no oil in the machine.

[pupo162]

hlafway in,...

quite an hostile crowd, uh: some bad fans were actually trowing things at the portuguese... shamefull action of a few... also lots of whistling when we grab the ball, but thats just how it goes. Lots of whites and not so many reds on balcony.


german looked like it dominated all the way into the half time.... but that last kick... i screamed goal! lol

[Jatta Raso]

Germans no score, so far so good...

[Bewolf]

hlafway in,...

quite an hostile crowd, uh: some bad fans were actually trowing things at the portuguese... shamefull action of a few... also lots of whistling when we grab the ball, but thats just how it goes. Lots of whites and not so many reds on balcony.


german looked like it dominated all the way into the half time.... but that last kick... i screamed goal! lol

Paper rolls, and indeed that was no fun. Reminds meof the Berlin Düsseldorf game.
The whistling, btw, commenced mainly when the german team played the ball back into their own half.

All in all a rather stocky performance.

[arthursmedley]

We are going to kick your sorry arse into to the ground and smash you, score 10 goals, and break several world records!!! or in its poltie manner: good luck! :grin:

Lol, if that is the Portugese game plan looks like they've all reverted to playing in the Uefa cup and are trying to bore the Germans to sleep!

[pupo162]

yap- we are clearly pushing the game to a slower pace. I dont know, but we are defending very well, and its not like germany is not trying, becosue they are.

Lets see what our (and germany's ) couch decides to change in the second half.

Yeah, the wistlign thing is one of the most annoying things, yet evferyone seems to enjoy it, unlike chanting, it brings both teams to annoyance, and not just the enemy. I was happy to be able to hear some portugal beeing chanted in the middle off all those germans.


second half is rolling.... ill be back :)

EDIT: "EHHHH PORTUGALL OOLLEEEEE" , sotty cant resist to say im proud to hear the chants :P

[pupo162]

sigh.... well, cant complain really, was a good goal.

1-0 for germany

[Bewolf]

That was about u/(=)&/$")( time!!!!!!

1:0 :D :D :D :D

[Jatta Raso]

you were very lucky..

[pupo162]

well.. yeah... a draw would be easier to swallow. we really pushed the game the second half.

2 more games too go, there is place for both of us :P

[Bewolf]

well.. yeah... a draw would be easier to swallow. we really pushed the game the second half.

2 more games too go, there is place for both of us :P

Man, such games in the group stages suck. Portugal is semi final material.
The only reason why i liked this game is because we won. Else that was rather dissapointing, with the second half at least much better then the first.

Guys, beat Denmark and the Netherlands and you are still game. That should be doable :D

[pupo162]

Man, such games in the group stages suck. Portugal is semi final material.
The only reason why i liked this game is because we won. Else that was rather dissapointing, with the second half at least much better then the first.

Guys, beat Denmark and the Netherlands and you are still game. That should be doable :D

Dutch should be easy, ;) , Denmark seems to be a regular nemesis lately.

Tomorrow we have Spain vs Italy, i will be supporting Spain (under penalty of execution in my squad. ), but it will be another game that shouldn't happen this soon.

[Bewolf]

Dutch should be easy, ;) , Denmark seems to be a regular nemesis lately.

Tomorrow we have Spain vs Italy, i will be supporting Spain (under penalty of execution in my squad. ), but it will be another game that shouldn't happen this soon.

Denmark will be interesting. That was a surprising result earlier today.
About Spain and Italy....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRO626ImQek

Spain all the way! We still have a score to settle >: )
But yeah, no group stage stuff there.

[6S.Manu]

I hope Italy ,Spain and England are thrown out of the tournament after their first 3 matches.

A Football team is the image of nation's culture... not always the more deserving team wins and, of course, "cheating" really works (but every team cheat, not only latin ones, Bewulf).

I would ban this sport.

[Bewolf]

I hope Italy ,Spain and England are thrown out of the tournament after their first 3 matches.

A Football team is the image of nation's culture... not always the more deserving team wins and, of course, "cheating" really works (but every team cheat, not only latin ones, Bewolf).

I would ban this sport.

Undoubtly, but teasing and provocation is such integral part of this sport, hehe.
The art is not to take it "too" serious. After all, and literally, it's just a game.

Italy-Spain will be interesting

[6S.Manu]

it's just a game.

Sadly its' no more a game...

Talking Football: This is money owed to the Spanish people. On a sporting level it is "financial doping" at its very worst

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/sam-wallace-spanish-clubs-unpaid-tax-bills-are-a-disgrace--and-a-warning-to-all-7576759.html

In Italy it's not different...

[arthursmedley]

Italy-Spain will be interesting

I hope so, we've had three good games out of the first four but Spain do not appear to be fielding any strikers, eh?

[Bewolf]

I hope so, we've had three good games out of the first four but Spain do not appear to be fielding any strikers, eh?

Just watched the first half time and I am getting scared. Lack of strikers do not really appear to bother them. Best game by far until now!
Our teams will have to really up the ante to compete with that.

[F19_Klunk]

second half SPA-ITA


what's wrong with Spain? Nobody dares to take a shot...!?!?

PS: Balotelli.. what a clown :)

EDIT. 1-0 for ITA..... no wonder... they got the drive in this match, Spain looks paralyzed
ops.. 1-1

[Bewolf]

second half SPA-ITA


what's wrong with Spain? Nobody dares to take a shot...!?!?

PS: Balotelli.. what a clown :)

BAM!!!!

1:0 for Italy.

And it's not like Italy makes it easy for Spain to take that shot

[Bewolf]

Double Bam!

1:1

[F19_Klunk]

I don't get it why Spain didn't start with Torres...
He definately opens up Italy's defense....

[retrojet]

Torres... how much? anyway.... sad game all round...

[pupo162]

saw the first 10 min , and the last 20 or so. and both goals.

Torres is that typical il2 guy who is a great dogfighter, but he misses all his shots.... i simpatize with him :rolleyes:

[F19_Klunk]

sad game?
sure, the first half was not much to see, but after the 2 goal, the match opened up and the last 30 minutes were good to see...


now... IRL - CRO... man I am in football heaven ;)

[pupo162]

IRL - CRO "the other game"

Ill watch that, you never know if there is a Denmark there :grin:

[F19_Klunk]

hehe true.... Denmark.. what a show that was... Would love to have been in Amsterdam after that game and watch the reactions.... I can only imagine the scenes in Copenhagen :D

[Bewolf]

Denmark-Netherlands is a game I missed, unfortunately. But Ireland s. Croatia will be interesting as well. Do not underestimate Croatia.

[F19_Klunk]

oh no.. for me Croatia is the obvious favourite in this match..

And with a wife who is a Croat ... well you figure it out ;)

[Bewolf]

oh no.. for me Croatia is the obvious favourite in this match..

And with a wife who is a Croat ... well you figure it out ;)

1:0, she will be pleased ; )

[Bewolf]

1:1

Gotta give it to the underdog!

[pupo162]

missed most of the match again :(

onyl saw the second croatian goal. it was luky strike no? did the 3rd compensate it?

[MiG-3U]

So far Russia and Croatia have impressed me most, young and energic teams.

[pupo162]

another match, frnace vs england. I guess France is better team, but i will be supporting the brits. Still have some hate on the french thanks to my french teacher in midschool.

[_YoYo_]

Now FRANCE vs ENGLAND. Will be very interesting!

[Bewolf]

Indeed!

Just came home, opend a beer and it's already 1:1
Going for England here!

[fruitbat]

only if they can keep the ball better in the second half.

[Bewolf]

Reminds me a bit of the Germany Portugal Game, a certain lack of refinement in both teams so far. Much slower paced, though.

Ball possession for the english side works fine, though. There simply are too many bleues defending.

[Bewolf]

Hmm. Looked like both teams were happy with their 1:1 once they had it.

[_YoYo_]

Good football match but no winners this time.

[arthursmedley]

Hmmm.....not that much between France and England. Two teams more concerned about loosing rather than winning. I can see one of these teams going through and one going out at the end of the group stage. Makes Ukraine v. Sweden a must watch match tonight.

Better check beer supplies now!

[Bewolf]

I have to admit I have no idea whatsoever what to expect from both teams.

Sweden obviously brought enough fans, though :D

Thor and Loki the first two sedish players shown, haha

[U505]

Indeed!

Just came home, opend a beer and it's already 1:1
Going for England here!

Going for france here :grin:

[pupo162]

again "the other match", lets see what ukraine has to bring to the Euro, in the field that is.

[arthursmedley]

Wow! Just when I thought Sweden were taking control Shevchenko turns the game on it's head!!

[mazex]

Wow! Just when I thought Sweden were taking control Shevchenko turns the game on it's head!!

Amazingly bad play by Sweden that in a brute way reminded us that we are only 9 million so why the heck do we think we have anything to do there? A whole team wrapped around one star and the days when the Swedish organizational skills made a difference are gone... The only hope is that England has not beaten Sweden in like 40 years ;) But France? Sigh...

[arthursmedley]

... The only hope is that England has not beaten Sweden in like 40 years ...

Is it really that long? Uh oh.

Wait a minute......we beat you 1-0 last November!:cool:

[pupo162]

Amazingly bad play by Sweden that in a brute way reminded us that we are only 9 million so why the heck do we think we have anything to do there? A whole team wrapped around one star and the days when the Swedish organizational skills made a difference are gone... The only hope is that England has not beaten Sweden in like 40 years ;) But France? Sigh...

well there are only 10 million portuguese, and we do come up with some fightign material. this isnt our best team ever, but there are some remarkable players. Miss the figo, Deco and Goalkeaper Ricardo..... lol.... i trully enjoyed euro 2004 :grin:

[Bewolf]

9 or 10 million people is plenty material to chose from.
It is just about how you train them and how the teams play together, tactics and philosophy.
And most certainly it is about the "will" to win.

[arthursmedley]

9 or 10 million people is plenty material to chose from.
It is just about how you train them and how the teams play together, tactics and philosophy.
And most certainly it is about the "will" to win.

Thats why, with a population of over sixty million we're still crap.

[SEE]

I have watched every match, ....Russia, Spain, Italy and Germany (who always get better each round) are the teams that have impressed me so far. Shevchenko....what a hero, enjoyed seeing him score two. Holland should be there with the favourites but it just isn't happening for them at the moment but that could change.

The teams I am supporting are Greece and England (as I am Half Greek/English) but other than that I m strictly neutral and enjoying watching all the teams/matches.

[Al Schlageter]

Thats why, with a population of over sixty million we're still crap.

To many furiners in the EPL.;)

[nearmiss]

Denmark will be interesting. That was a surprising result earlier today.
About Spain and Italy....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRO626ImQek

Spain all the way! We still have a score to settle >: )
But yeah, no group stage stuff there.

That video is so funny. ROFL

[Bewolf]

Thats why, with a population of over sixty million we're still crap.

Dunno. England regulary makes the impression it has 11 primadonnas on the field, not a "team". The talent is there for sure.

[arthursmedley]

To many furiners in the EPL.;)

Well yes, I think this is part of the reason. The EPL is awash with TV money and teams have buying power which has pushed transfer deals and wages to absurd levels. The richest game in the world was not the Champions League final but a match played a few days before at Wembley. The play-off for the final promotion place to next years EPL. It's worth at least £80 million to the winner.
I think I read a statistic a couple of years ago when TV schedules allowed the whole EPL to play on a single Saturday afternoon; Out of 220 players only 32 were eligible to play for England. At least two teams did not field any English players at all that day. Many teams have poor youth development schemes as they can buy in decent players from abroad as the pool of English talent is over-priced and over-payed which leads us to;


Dunno. England regulary makes the impression it has 11 primadonnas on the field, not a "team". The talent is there for sure.

Yes, because many English players have been treated as prima donnas since the age of fourteen. Playing well for the team is not as important as ensuring the individuals earning power is maintained.

[Kongo-Otto]

:cool: :grin:

http://www.abload.de/img/thewayaheadeblnb.jpg

[pupo162]

This is it... Or Portugal wins today.. or we might as well pack our bags home.

Anyway, i never liked this guy>

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0CQm-rZXss/TZNVb_mMdTI/AAAAAAAAACw/LyEsDddHRbc/s1600/paulo-bento.jpg

[Bewolf]

This is it... Or Portugal wins today.. or we might as well pack our bags home.

Anyway, i never liked this guy>

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0CQm-rZXss/TZNVb_mMdTI/AAAAAAAAACw/LyEsDddHRbc/s1600/paulo-bento.jpg

:D

[Osprey]

I know the Germans think they'll win it, but they won't because their team has no pace. Sorry but it's true. :)

[Bewolf]

I know the Germans think they'll win it, but they won't because their team has no pace. Sorry but it's true. :)

Let's just hope I will use that as Sig material later on ; )

[arthursmedley]

Wow, Portugal go 3 - 2 up with 3 minutes to go. Great game. Pupo must have been having kittens at 70 minutes, lol!

[Bewolf]

Completly missed that game, only came home a couple minutes ago. But I heared crazy things about it. Will have to watch the highlights later on.

So Portugal kicked itself back into the tournament, eh? Good! They deserve it.

Unlike the Netherlands, which will be removed soon :D

But for now:

http://www.ratebeer.com/beerimages/full_size/7835.jpg

[major_setback]

Well played again Denmark. Shame you couldn't just hold on until the end. You deserved a draw in this one.
The next one will be tough ;-) I'm looking forward to it.

[csThor]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMEZ!

http://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gif

[GS_Hunger]

deutschlaaaand! deutschlaaaaaaand!

[Bewolf]

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMEZ!

http://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gifhttp://www.zeichnen-forum.de/community/Smileys/nightmage/smilie_hops_169.gif

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

Hey Osprey, I think you said something on the other page. Sorry, too lazy to check it up, remind me again? :D

Oh right, I remember!

[pupo162]

Ha!

just got home, and the day couldnt have gone better ( well we could have jsut won 2-0)

Overral, i think portugal really desearved the win, and the 2-2 was undesearved, the first goal was a huge fail of the defense, one in a lifetime, and the second one was just bad luck coming from the goalkeaper.

the 3rd goal was party material for the rest of the game, people really were euforic when it happened.

Now, that Ronaldo.... what is wrong with him?? i mean, he is supposed to be the beast in the world, and he did made some terrible mistakes, i think this is a secret plan, make ronaldo suck in first games, people will back off while covering him (he had 2 man assigned on him today), and we will be able to move freally during playoffs.... maybe not.


God job germany, missed most of the match, but the goals, and what an amazing goals.


About tomorrow: 2 straight games, not much to be expected, probably will miss both to study....

[Bewolf]

Yeah, what what I have seen, Ronaldo was out of his mind this game. Dunno, such days happen, but this game was too important for such a day. Luckily the rest of the team managed, quite obviously :D

WIll have to watch a repeat one of these days!

[raaaid]

they are pretending those guys play much better than they pretend to, humm betting....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaEMurBRyPY&feature=related

[major_setback]

they are pretending those guys play much better than they pretend to, humm betting....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaEMurBRyPY&feature=related

I will state the obvious. It could have take him 10 times to get each shot right, or more.

[raaaid]

well of course though he does two in a row too

i think most havent seen this one:

i watched it in the news AS REAL though for promotion

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdYzY1-j3Ls

[SEE]

You have to admire the Germans........why the hell can't our lads (England) play like that? Poland, Ukraine showed some true grit - nice to see too.

I don't see England creating the chances even if and when they do keep the ball - they seem to be devoid of that 'cutting edge killer instinct' or maybe they just lack the confidence to perform at their true potential at international level!

Gripe - Theo Walcott substitute with 90 seconds of the match to go - what the hell was that all about?

[Robo.]

Overral, i think portugal really desearved the win, and the 2-2 was undesearved, the first goal was a huge fail of the defense, one in a lifetime, and the second one was just bad luck coming from the goalkeaper.

2 - 2 was well deserved imho, it was a good game and the Danes showed a lot of fighting spirit. You've made it in the end but a draw wouldn't surprise me at all. Nice game.

God job germany, missed most of the match, but the goals, and what an amazing goals.

Deutschland!!!

About tomorrow: 2 straight games, not much to be expected, probably will miss both to study....

Never such a thing like a straight game in this kind of tournament. ;)

SEE I hope they will improve their game throughout the tournament for I am great fan of English football. Looking from outside, at least your lads play and don't do much of the acting bit like the other teams. You're very good and I think you've got a good chance for making it very far!

[Osprey]

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

Hey Osprey, I think you said something on the other page. Sorry, too lazy to check it up, remind me again? :D

Oh right, I remember!

I said that Germany lacked pace in the side. That hasn't changed.

I never said that they wouldn't reach the next stage - of course they would. I just said that they won't win it, which is contrary to the expectations of most German fans (apparently)

I only caught the second half last night because I was playing myself, the Dutch lost their shape and looked a bit disorganised so it's not unexpected that a disciplined German team would pull a few holes in there. Perfect group for Germany, an over-rated Portuguese team, punch-less Denmark and typically Dutch team with loads of promise but at war with itself as usual. Group of death? You must be joking.

[Osprey]

You have to admire the Germans........why the hell can't our lads (England) play like that? Poland, Ukraine showed some true grit - nice to see too.

I don't see England creating the chances even if and when they do keep the ball - they seem to be devoid of that 'cutting edge killer instinct' or maybe they just lack the confidence to perform at their true potential at international level!

Now, I don't think this is the best England side we have but don't forget we were playing a good French team who haven't lost in 22 matches. England were organised in defence, played with 2 rows which is tough to break down and have some pacy players to break out with, although imo Wellbeck was poor as an outlet and failed to hold the ball up quite a few times. Rooney would do this job much better. Also, consider that the referee (sorry to blame the ref) failed to stop the French from cynical fouls on at least 10 occasions which allowed them to regroup from dangerous situations. Given that England cut them open early on and Milner failed to score - it's this sort of break they were vulnerable to and had we been protected from that sort of cynical foul by the ref we'd have had a few more chances like that. What we do not know about is consistency. Sweden are not a strong team but they play differently, I think we will win it. Ukraine are a worry because they are hosts - god knows what sort of ref we'll get for that! :rolleyes:


Gripe - Theo Walcott substitute with 90 seconds of the match to go - what the hell was that all about?

Running down the clock.

[Bewolf]

Where is Bongo when you need him?

Here! there you have a first hand example, hehe.

And Osprey, you take those games waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay to serious!
A pity we probably won't have a Germany-England match to settle those debates. ;)

[bongodriver]

Where is Bongo when you need him?



Wha?....what's happening, someone called?

[Icebear]

I only caught the second half last night because I was playing myself, the Dutch lost their shape and looked a bit disorganised so it's not unexpected that a disciplined German team would pull a few holes in there. Perfect group for Germany, an over-rated Portuguese team, punch-less Denmark and typically Dutch team with loads of promise but at war with itself as usual. Group of death? You must be joking.

Too bad that you missed the first half. IMHO Germany played nearly perfect football in the first half. 61% (!) ball possession for the Dutch and two goals for Germany. As a matter fact the Dutch played with themselves as there was no way to get through (except one lucky chance). They looked like fools and not like the vice world champions. And you could see in their astonished faces that saw what they wished to play..... Too sad that van Marwijk did not have the b*lls to send Huntelaar and van der Vaart right from the beginning.

P.S.: Whose older? John Terry or Mark van Bommel? ;)

[Bewolf]

Wha?....what's happening, someone called?

Just a little example above in regards to our usual german-british debates, hehe.

So, Italy Croatia and Spain-Ireland tonight. Croatia may surpirse us, any tips in regards to Ireland vs. Spain? I suspect a slaughter, but I could be wrong.

[bongodriver]

Oh....I hate football with a passion....so I don't care who wins.

[pupo162]

Just a little example above in regards to our usual german-british debates, hehe.

So, Italy Croatia and Spain-Ireland tonight. Croatia may surpirse us, any tips in regards to Ireland vs. Spain? I suspect a slaughter, but I could be wrong.

meh... im betting on easy wins for both spain and italy.

Regarding england, i think i agree with Osprey, they did pull a great match against france, They did some great plays, and their goal was very good. The frech goal was individually very good too, but i think i prefered the british goal.

wait and see... wait and see

[csThor]

Well ... Germany is now reaping the rewards of what was started in the dark days after the World Cup 1998. Then the focus was shifted towards better training methods and environment for the youth teams, with the DFB supervising. All national teams (from the U15 up) were reorganised, the trainer staff was made more professional and the philosophy was harmonized. Most of the current and coming national players went through this school - Lahm, Schweinsteiger, Badstuber, Hummels, Boateng, Özil ... It takes a lot of time and investments - and even more patience - but it does work well.

As for England. I do see the greatest problem of England in the form of the Premier League. Right now it's not more than a totally overpriced economical comedy totally focused on squeezing every pence out of the fans. For over a decade money was blown out of the chimney for expensive "superstars" (most of them not from England) by rich people who treat the football clubs as their personal toys - or by greedy club bosses who financed everything from loans. Where would Chelsea be without Abramovitch? Or ManCity without their Sheikh? Bancrupt, the pieces sold and playing in some local amateur league. And the english national team is paying for these developments - and have been paying for them for a few years already. As long as the insane procedure of pumping a few million pounds into a few foreing football players every year continues the national team will continue to decline. We in Germany had this in the 90s and the World Cup 1998 and the Euro 2000 showed drastically where this road led.

With the advent of the "financial fair play" as the UEFA calls it this way of operating is going to end, anyway. It'll be a crunch for a few leagues, most notably the Premier League and the Primera Division, but in the end it will lead to a healthier football and less economical gamblers.

[Osprey]

Don't get me wrong here, I think Germany are a better team 'on paper' than England, but England are capable of beating them should we meet, if we got a spot of luck. We have a new coach and he's drilled in some organisation, we were solid for most of the game versus France and dangerous on the break. Holland were very poor value but you could see that if you have a couple of pacey players against Germany then holes appeared. Sneijder and Robben got behind the fullbacks a few times, but the side was a bit of a mess and couldn't make anything of it. Germany though are very patient and keep possession really well which I think is their biggest asset.

Portugal had a better team a few years ago imho when they had that little dirty dog Deco playing in central midfield plus the only real 'striker' they had in Luis Figo. They now rely on Nani and Ronaldo, and the latter doesn't appear to be playing at his best right now. For me Spain are still very strong. They played an excellent Italian side and punched holes in them at times, I think they are still the team to beat - the Irish will get a pasting tonight :D

Regarding the long term problems in English football, csThor is dead right but it's going to get worse. Because EPL clubs don't develop many players themselves last Summer they have bribed the majority of the 72 EFL clubs below them to vote in the EPPP, which is a system where the EPL can take any young player from any club at any time for a nominal sum. They got this through because 3/4 of the 72 don't have academies and are unlikely to ever get into the EPL so they voted for the cash. My club, Crystal Palace, have an excellent Academy so what will we do? Possibly Abolish the academy because it won't be worth it. Our present side has several academy player in it - 2 players to watch for the future are Jonathan Williams (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Williams_(footballer)) and Wilfried Zaha (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilfried_Zaha)

[pupo162]

there, this thread is the living proof i suck at predictions, and why i dotn bet lottarys......

croaci 1 -1 italy. Another great goal for the Euro, the italian one.

EDIT:

soooo Torres scored... and the only portuguese player did manage to create one hell of an opportunity for the spanish team (After taking down a irish player),


shame the portuguese is the referee

[Bewolf]

there, this thread is the living proof i suck at predictions, and why i dotn bet lottarys......

croaci 1 -1 italy. Another great goal for the Euro, the italian one.

Told you not to underestimate Croatia. They have some real fighting spirit. Another example of a small country capable to holds it's own against one of the greats in football.

Was a very fine game that.

Ireland right now under a lot of pressure, but they also giving everything. Even bevoming dangerous at times. I hope Ireland manages to get past the group stages, even though I doubt it.

[pupo162]

nah... spain is dominating. ireland is out...

Im Pretty confident Spain will win the group, the question is who will pass? croatia or Italy? A draw beetween spain and cratio would be enough wouldnt it? ill be doing the math later.

BTW, have you checked the math behind our group? lol, anything can happen (except the garantee that Germany will keep on), but other than that, IReland Danmark and Holland are still possible candidates for the next phase.

[Bewolf]

nah... spain is dominating. ireland is out...

Im Pretty confident Spain will win the group, the question is who will pass? croatia or Italy? A draw beetween spain and cratio would be enough wouldnt it? ill be doing the math later.

BTW, have you checked the math behind our group? lol, anything can happen (except the garantee that Germany will keep on), but other than that, IReland Danmark and Holland are still possible candidates for the next phase.

I like our group, great games and lots of eventualities. Even the Netherlands still have the theoretical chance to move on :D

[pupo162]

lets hope not... and score quite a few agains Danmark will you?


soo torres scored again! i really like this player, tough he failed to succed at the english league, he has done 2 great matches (he played 15 min the first, and so did spain) and scored 2 goals... more will come.

[Bewolf]

lets hope not... and score quite a few agains Danmark will you?


soo torres scored again! i really like this player, tough he failed to succed at the english league, he has done 2 great matches (he played 15 min the first, and so did spain) and scored 2 goals... more will come.

Will certainly hope so, hehe.

3:0 here now, done deal. And yes, the Spanish team will go far for sure. Still a very hard tournament to come.

[pupo162]

scratch that 4:0

Fabregas is also a great player clearly.... this is what the portuguese team is missing, someone who can score nice and easy... Damm you Ronaldo... wake up already!´

EDIT:

TO note, Nothign shuts up the Irish, what a great public, chearing their team on the face of clear defeat, and fairplay, aplauding the spanish goals respectufully. They desearve a goal.

[Bewolf]

Those irish fans are boss. Much kudos to them, great team, great people alltogether here. Can you imagine what other countrie's fans would have done on such a loss?

4:0, bye bye Ireland, see you next tournament hopefully.

[pupo162]

Those irish fans are boss. Much kudos to them, great team, great people alltogether here. Can you imagine what other countrie's fans would have done on such a loss?

4:0, bye bye Ireland, see you next tournament hopefully.

The portuguese would ahve left the stadium by the second goal... I went to see the match agiasnt Denmark "semi"-live in an open air event with some 4000 people (maybe more, cant count over 100 yet), and many left when denmark scored the second goal.

So tomorrow i bet.... nah, keeping my mouth shut.

[Osprey]

lets hope not... and score quite a few agains Danmark will you?


soo torres scored again! i really like this player, tough he failed to succed at the english league, he has done 2 great matches (he played 15 min the first, and so did spain) and scored 2 goals... more will come.


Only for Chelsea. He was alright for Liverpool, well, for one season lol

Ireland are in their final anyway, that's why they cheer. Being a fan of a lower league club I can relate to it - the expectations are different that's all, they aren't any different to any other people.

[Osprey]

As for England. I do see the greatest problem of England in the form of the Premier League. Right now it's not more than a totally overpriced economical comedy totally focused on squeezing every pence out of the fans. For over a decade money was blown out of the chimney for expensive "superstars" (most of them not from England) by rich people who treat the football clubs as their personal toys - or by greedy club bosses who financed everything from loans. Where would Chelsea be without Abramovitch? Or ManCity without their Sheikh? Bancrupt, the pieces sold and playing in some local amateur league. And the english national team is paying for these developments - and have been paying for them for a few years already. As long as the insane procedure of pumping a few million pounds into a few foreing football players every year continues the national team will continue to decline. We in Germany had this in the 90s and the World Cup 1998 and the Euro 2000 showed drastically where this road led.

With the advent of the "financial fair play" as the UEFA calls it this way of operating is going to end, anyway. It'll be a crunch for a few leagues, most notably the Premier League and the Primera Division, but in the end it will lead to a healthier football and less economical gamblers.


As I said, the EPPP makes it's first strike!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18278621

Wycombe Wanderers scrap youth academy

By Paul Fletcher
BBC Sport
The Supporters' Trust poised to take over at Wycombe Wanderers has decided to close the club's youth system.
It leaves Wycombe as the only one of the 72 Football League clubs without any form of youth development.
In a statement, the club cited "financial limitations" and the "increased demands" of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) - a new system for academies in England.
The Chairboys have a successful history of producing promising youngsters.
In recent years, players such as Blackpool winger Matt Phillips and Wolves defender Roger Johnson have come through the ranks.

Wycombe sold striker Jordon Ibe to Liverpool last December, while winger Kadeem Harris, the League Two apprentice of the year in 2011, joined Championship side Cardiff in January.
And the club, relegated from League One last season, have recently offered new deals to home-grown midfield pairing Jesse-Kewley Graham and Josh Scowen.
"Wanderers were opposed to the EPPP from the outset, voting against the proposal at a meeting alongside fellow Football League clubs in October," the club statement continued.
"However, the ruling was passed and the club believes it is certain to change the way in which Football League clubs are able to operate at youth level."
A senior figure at Adams Park told BBC Sport the decision was not solely based on the introduction of EPPP, which is due to start nation-wide next season.
And the Trust, which is set to take over the club from current owner Steve Hayes, remains hopeful that it will be able to reintroduce a youth programme at some point in the future.
But the Supporters' Trust are determined to ensure the club will break even financially and believe that in the short term they cannot sustain the cost of their youth system, which is currently in the region of £300,000 per season.
This is despite the fact that EPPP, proposed by the Premier League, agreed by the Football League last October and set to be introduced at the start of the 2012-13 season, will increase payments to all clubs for youth development.
EPPP will also see the introduction of a new four-tier academy system and, as part of the deal, set tariffs have been introduced to replace the tribunal system for the sale of home-grown players.

The introduction of EPPP was widely criticised as a system that would favour Premier League clubs.
In his column at the time Wycombe's Matt Bloomfield said: "I am worried by the possible affect of the new system on clubs like ours who produce their own young players to play in their first team and then to sell for a price that helps to keep the club running."
The Trust is unsure that the structure of the new tribunal system, with a focus on smaller up-front payments but increased add-ons, will generate the required reward on their investment in youth.
They are also concerned by the Football League's retrospective auditing process, which could see clubs asked to pay back funds given for youth development if they have not met certain criteria in line with their category status.
With the focus firmly on running the club as a stable concern, a senior source at the club said the Trust thinks it would be "too risky" to continue with the youth programme.
The club website states that there are 10 full-time employees in the youth department, as well as 25 part-time staff, coaching boys aged eight to 18, who will all lose their jobs.
Those young players who are not offered professional contracts will be given help finding a new club.
Wycombe's centre of excellence technical development officer Dave George announced his retirement last month.
The exact category status of most Football League clubs has yet to be determined, although it is understood that six clubs in the Championship last season - Southampton, Reading, West Ham, Watford, Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace - applied for category one status.
In the region of 20 are expected to be given category two status, with the vast majority settling for category three.
Clubs in category four will be operating a low-key system, where clubs will pick up 16-year-olds that have been released by other teams.


Wycombe - a youth success story
Blackpool's Matt Phillips joined Wycombe aged eight and made his first-team debut as a 17-year-old
Cardiff's Kadeem Harris made his Wycombe debut in December 2009 aged 16 years and 201 days - the youngest in the club's history at the time
Jordon Ibe , who joined Liverpool in January, broke Harris's record when he made his Football League debut aged 15 years and 311 days


Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP)
A new four-tier academy system
Set tariffs to replace the tribunal system for the sale of home-grown players
End of the 90-minute rule
Increased payments to all clubs for youth development
Will be introduced from the 2012-2013 season

[Bewolf]

As I said, the EPPP makes it's first strike!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18278621

Wycombe Wanderers scrap youth academy

By Paul Fletcher
BBC Sport
The Supporters' Trust poised to take over at Wycombe Wanderers has decided to close the club's youth system.
It leaves Wycombe as the only one of the 72 Football League clubs without any form of youth development.
In a statement, the club cited "financial limitations" and the "increased demands" of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) - a new system for academies in England.
The Chairboys have a successful history of producing promising youngsters.
In recent years, players such as Blackpool winger Matt Phillips and Wolves defender Roger Johnson have come through the ranks.

Wycombe sold striker Jordon Ibe to Liverpool last December, while winger Kadeem Harris, the League Two apprentice of the year in 2011, joined Championship side Cardiff in January.
And the club, relegated from League One last season, have recently offered new deals to home-grown midfield pairing Jesse-Kewley Graham and Josh Scowen.
"Wanderers were opposed to the EPPP from the outset, voting against the proposal at a meeting alongside fellow Football League clubs in October," the club statement continued.
"However, the ruling was passed and the club believes it is certain to change the way in which Football League clubs are able to operate at youth level."
A senior figure at Adams Park told BBC Sport the decision was not solely based on the introduction of EPPP, which is due to start nation-wide next season.
And the Trust, which is set to take over the club from current owner Steve Hayes, remains hopeful that it will be able to reintroduce a youth programme at some point in the future.
But the Supporters' Trust are determined to ensure the club will break even financially and believe that in the short term they cannot sustain the cost of their youth system, which is currently in the region of £300,000 per season.
This is despite the fact that EPPP, proposed by the Premier League, agreed by the Football League last October and set to be introduced at the start of the 2012-13 season, will increase payments to all clubs for youth development.
EPPP will also see the introduction of a new four-tier academy system and, as part of the deal, set tariffs have been introduced to replace the tribunal system for the sale of home-grown players.

The introduction of EPPP was widely criticised as a system that would favour Premier League clubs.
In his column at the time Wycombe's Matt Bloomfield said: "I am worried by the possible affect of the new system on clubs like ours who produce their own young players to play in their first team and then to sell for a price that helps to keep the club running."
The Trust is unsure that the structure of the new tribunal system, with a focus on smaller up-front payments but increased add-ons, will generate the required reward on their investment in youth.
They are also concerned by the Football League's retrospective auditing process, which could see clubs asked to pay back funds given for youth development if they have not met certain criteria in line with their category status.
With the focus firmly on running the club as a stable concern, a senior source at the club said the Trust thinks it would be "too risky" to continue with the youth programme.
The club website states that there are 10 full-time employees in the youth department, as well as 25 part-time staff, coaching boys aged eight to 18, who will all lose their jobs.
Those young players who are not offered professional contracts will be given help finding a new club.
Wycombe's centre of excellence technical development officer Dave George announced his retirement last month.
The exact category status of most Football League clubs has yet to be determined, although it is understood that six clubs in the Championship last season - Southampton, Reading, West Ham, Watford, Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace - applied for category one status.
In the region of 20 are expected to be given category two status, with the vast majority settling for category three.
Clubs in category four will be operating a low-key system, where clubs will pick up 16-year-olds that have been released by other teams.


Wycombe - a youth success story
Blackpool's Matt Phillips joined Wycombe aged eight and made his first-team debut as a 17-year-old
Cardiff's Kadeem Harris made his Wycombe debut in December 2009 aged 16 years and 201 days - the youngest in the club's history at the time
Jordon Ibe , who joined Liverpool in January, broke Harris's record when he made his Football League debut aged 15 years and 311 days


Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP)
A new four-tier academy system
Set tariffs to replace the tribunal system for the sale of home-grown players
End of the 90-minute rule
Increased payments to all clubs for youth development
Will be introduced from the 2012-2013 season

Ufff. Now that reeks.
Do you have an idea how this development started in the first place? And why fans and clubs let themselves treated this way? All hell would break lose here if something similiar happend.

[pupo162]

so.... its raining.

:grin:

[csThor]

I agree with Bewolf. The fan clubs would riot if any club attempted such a nonsense. :shock:

[arthursmedley]

Bad luck Ukraine but this new young French team are looking very good indeed.

Meanwhile, just when I thought England were going into crap mode Andy Carroll heads in the best goal of the tournament so far!!:grin:





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0laut4n3MHU&feature=fvwrel

[fruitbat]

ahhh, John Barnes rapping.....

[arthursmedley]

A viking makes it one - all. Game on!

[fruitbat]

lol, 2-1 Sweden.

[arthursmedley]

I'll get me coat.............................:rolleyes:

[fruitbat]

this is a comedy game, 2-2, miss kick (but a good one)!

[arthursmedley]

Lets be honest. These are two crap teams. Entertaining though.:cool:

[fruitbat]

Lets be honest. These are two crap teams. Entertaining though.:cool:

my thoughts exactly:)

[fruitbat]

ahhh brilliant, 3-2:grin:

good finish.

[arthursmedley]

3-2. Fantastic! Had to watch the last few minutes through my fingers.;)

Ukraine next. Bring on the Rooneyator.:cool: Look out Granny.;)

[mazex]

ahhh brilliant, 3-2:grin:

good finish.

But really , didn't Sweden deserve an equal result at least? It's hard to see being so subjective ;)

[Bewolf]

3-2. Fantastic! Had to watch the last few minutes through my fingers.;)

Ukraine next. Bring on the Rooneyator.:cool: Look out Granny.;)

Slowly getting into it, eh? :D

Darn, my little brother graduated university today and threw a party, missed all games. So England-Sweden 3:2, yes?

[=CfC= Father Ted]

Yep, squeaked in at 3- 2.

I have to admit to not watching much - spent my evening in the virtual skies in my virtual SE5a. Much as I want to see my country win, I don't want to have to watch them actually playing, sad to say. Cracking head from Carroll, though.

Maybe now that the above-mentioned granny-botherer is back they'll be worth a watch.

[fruitbat]

But really , didn't Sweden deserve an equal result at least? It's hard to see being so subjective ;)

Probably on balance.

Both sides had many missed opportunities, really the game could of gone either way. Credit to how Sweden started the second half.

[mazex]

Probably on balance.

Both sides had many missed opportunities, really the game could of gone either way. Credit to how Sweden started the second half.

Well, as bad as we played against Ukraine we don't deserve to continue in the tournament anyway ;) Good luck against them - I'm pretty sure England will have an easy win there! And that may be needed if France wins over a Swedish team with no motivation in the last round (like we would have had a chance anyway ;)).

[pupo162]

i was all set up to see the Ukraine France game... due to the rain missed all of it. So England won and France too, for once my predictions were correct :P

I will take my chances Russia wins tomorrow, and i will be hoping for a polish win ( i'd like to see both, or at least one of the home teams goign a tad bit further).

[philip.ed]

I actually think England deserved to win, but I said before the match that (defensively) we are shocking and thus all of Sweden's goals would come from set-pieces, as they did. It really is a struggle to watch England play. We're sluggish on the ball, our passing is atrocious, and it's only when you see bursts of flair (such as the build-up to Carrol's goal) you realise that we could be so much better.

[Robo.]

iI will take my chances Russia wins tomorrow, and i will be hoping for a polish win ( i'd like to see both, or at least one of the home teams goign a tad bit further).

Nope! :-P

Češiiii!!!!

[_YoYo_]

Czech & Greece.....

[pupo162]

bloody hell... russia is out!?

ok... im betting Holland and Denmark will pass tomorrow. there, pheraps i get this one wrong!

[JG53Frankyboy]

dump IMHO UEFA rule that put Russia out in the groupe phase.......

[pupo162]

dump IMHO UEFA rule that put Russia out in the groupe phase.......

Meh, in my opinion the upper position should be given to who won the match beetween 2 teams. SO in this case that would still be the greeks to go on.

[Bewolf]

Meh, in my opinion the upper position should be given to who won the match beetween 2 teams. SO in this case that would still be the greeks to go on.

Agreed. Football is chaotic, and bad luck is part of that. Can't change rules everytimes one does not like a result.

[arthursmedley]

dump IMHO UEFA rule that put Russia out in the groupe phase.......

Eh? What dumb rule is this? They didn't get the results - they're out. Simples. My only gripe so far is the final group games are on simultaneously.
What do I choose tonight? The Germany game or the Portugese....decisions, decisions......

[pupo162]

Eh? What dumb rule is this? They didn't get the results - they're out. Simples. My only gripe so far is the final group games are on simultaneously.
What do I choose tonight? The Germany game or the Portugese....decisions, decisions......

pick, the germany if you want to see some goals and great gameplay.... pick the portugal-holland if you want to see some mediavel fighting

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2oebtN21HE

[JG53Frankyboy]

Eh? What dumb rule is this? They didn't get the results - they're out. Simples. My only gripe so far is the final group games are on simultaneously.
What do I choose tonight? The Germany game or the Portugese....decisions, decisions......

group phase means for me , addition of the results. That the "KO" system is counting already as the second decission factor in a group is new - and still odd for me. in the old system when 'points, goals, goaldifference' counted before the direct comparrison, russia would be second and greece out.
its just my personal opinion!

[McHilt]

The dutch are not up to it so far from what I've watched. I settle for Germany-Denmark tonight for the sake of better gameplay...
Too bad Russia and Poland are out of the game. Poland-Czech Republic was a decent match though.

[pupo162]

group phase means for me , addition of the results. That the "KO" system is counting already as the second decission factor in a group is new - and still odd for me. in the old system when 'points, goals, goaldifference' counted before the direct comparrison, russia would be second and greece out.
its just my personal opinion!

tough i respect your opinion, i think the new method is better. If 2 teams are in a draw, the best of th e2 should move forward, and the best criteria for this wich of the 2 is better is direct confrontation, or we coudl end up with a team who got a lucky strike at another and scored lots of goals (portugal- korea style), passing the group undeserved.

My onyl issue is that direct confrontation should only refer in first instance too this final phase, and not to the whole competition. Then again this is my opinion too.

[whoarmongar]

Its Holland v Portugal for me.
I expect Germany v Denmark will be a draw.
They draw and the Dutch are out, if Germany beat the Danes the Dutch can qualify.
Put your money on Germany to play some squad players and settle for a draw elliminating the Dutch. Cynical view I know but true I think.

[arthursmedley]

group phase means for me , addition of the results. That the "KO" system is counting already as the second decission factor in a group is new - and still odd for me. in the old system when 'points, goals, goaldifference' counted before the direct comparrison, russia would be second and greece out.
its just my personal opinion!

Ah, I see what you mean. Group phase = more TV rights to sell = more money for UEFA and money makes football go round these days.

@Lol, Pupo. I think Germany will take care of Denmark without too many problems but Holland v. Portugal? It'll be like this:-P

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8elmVtJ6Jck

[Sven]

Its Holland v Portugal for me.
I expect Germany v Denmark will be a draw.
They draw and the Dutch are out, if Germany beat the Danes the Dutch can qualify.
Put your money on Germany to play some squad players and settle for a draw elliminating the Dutch. Cynical view I know but true I think.

I'm sure that's exactly what is going to happen. The Netherlands are potentially a bigger threat then Denmark for the Germans.

We may win tonight, I very much doubt it, but even if we do, not with 2 goals difference ;)

[arthursmedley]

Ronaldo 2, Holland 1. Pretty impressive performance from Ronaldo and Portugal. At the same time Germany play three, win three, have no injuries or suspensions. Hmmm.........

[McHilt]

Viva Portugal!, well deserved... I'll drink to that (already started before the match that is).

[Bewolf]

Yeah, for the first time this tournament I could enjoy the game at a public viewing with a couple friends and lots of the good stuff.

And the best part? I will be able to do it again :D

Sorry Denmark, no condolences from me this time, parking the busses back at the goal with 9 field players constantly behind the 11m line....For christs sake, you had to WIN this match to go forward! One brilliantly executed goal notwithstanding.
And what is this cynical Germany wanted to see the Netherlands knocked out? Most Germans rooted for the Netherlands, probably one of the very few countries Germany would root for later in the tournament and the sheer crazyness of the event. Times seriously have changed in some regards ;)

[pupo162]

Dutch, in many aspect football can be comapred to il2, its 1 hour and 20 mins of boredom transit flying, for those 10 min of action and dogfight (goals in this case)

SO, this was a completely different portuguese team, we had it all but we were missing the goals, now Ronaldo his awake i can see a greater future, bring on the Czechs!!


Missed the germany match (Duh!), but saw the goals.... germany efficiency is crazy, not much of individual skill but more of a machine... See them in the finals? ;)

And greece vs Germany... i wodner what will that be? after all i can see some political meltdown coming (there was some in the Portugal - germany match! ), Ill hope it stays out of the field, and out of the Supporters, and i expect a german win (sorry Bewolf)

[Bewolf]

And greece vs Germany... i wodner what will that be? after all i can see some political meltdown coming (there was some in the Portugal - germany match! ), Ill hope it stays out of the field, and out of the Supporters, and i expect a german win (sorry Bewolf)

Eh, certainly hope for a good and fair match. The Greeks did wonders with Russia, seriously did not see that coming, and that needs some praise. And they certainly will have to compensate for the political situation. But as long as both sides keep politics out of the game and respect each other, it should be a tough but great game.

And you most certainly do not have to apologize to me for expecting a german win :D

Congratz btw for beating the Netherlands (poor sobs, really) and going on to the quarters!

[pupo162]

And you most certainly do not have to apologize to me for expecting a german win :D
!

given my prediction capabilities trough the thread....

SO... is italy staying out? lets find out!

[Bewolf]

given my prediction capabilities trough the thread....

SO... is italy staying out? lets find out!

Just got home again.

So Italy - Ireland or Spain - Croatia?

Spain - Coratia.

[Bewolf]

For a moment I saw a sensation on the horizone. Great game, the Croats have my deepest respect. Pity they did not score when htey had the possebility.

Awesome team, but Spain was the tad more awesome with that one goal...walk in the park. :D

[pupo162]

... sigh... once again missed the matches... was hoppign for Croatia and Spain, but Spain is in and that was the priorty for me ( go spain! )

One group left, i would like to see ukrania and England in the next phase. But once again... will miss the matches :evil:

[Meusli]

But once again... will miss the matches :evil:

Why? If you have access to a computer maybe you could stream it, or worse case scenario listen to it on the radio.

[pupo162]

Why? If you have access to a computer maybe you could stream it, or worse case scenario listen to it on the radio.

will be in class and then on a bus home, the luck is not on my side, and will have a reharsal the day after, so i will only see the Portugla match now :(

[Meusli]

will be in class and then on a bus home, the luck is not on my side, and will have a reharsal the day after, so i will only see the Portugla match now :(

Bring us the day when we can stream live footage to our mobiles. :(

[SEE]

One group to be decided!

According to the stats being discussed on the radio, it was the first time (England V Sweden) that England have ever won a major international match after going behind in the second half in normal time....here's hoping that they go on to win the group.

I had to laugh when a commentator described Greece as 'Garbage' and dismissed any notion that they could beat Russia - simple truth is that Greece can score (even with ten men), usually do and concede few......:grin:

[ZioSam]

Italy now is dangerous,no cookie thx to the refree,cause fabregas tried to let croatia score.Italy and spain deserved to pass,Cratia racist supporters(they throw bananas and racist louds to Mario Balotelli,+ BUUU louds with italian hymn) better for them to go home

[Jatta Raso]

Italy now is dangerous,no cookie thx to the refree,cause fabregas tried to let croatia score.Italy and spain deserved to pass,Cratia racist supporters(they throw bananas and racist louds to Mario Balotelli,+ BUUU louds with italian hymn) better for them to go home

no matter how you put it, Croatia was ripped off 2 penalties, 1 of them nearly at the end of the match, just before the goal from Spain

[Al Schlageter]

The Italians must have paid off the referee. The Italians should rename their team the Swans.

[T}{OR]

no matter how you put it, Croatia was ripped off 2 penalties, 1 of them nearly at the end of the match, just before the goal from Spain

Aside the few retarded individuals that support us, we were clearly ripped off in the last two matches. Terrible referees, both german Stark and english Webb.

But from my objective point of view, we should have scored from the opportunities we had. No one can blame us for missing 100% chance vs. Spain last night in 58. (IIRC) minute. 1:1 score would have brought us the 1/4 final.

[Osprey]

Italy now is dangerous,no cookie thx to the refree,cause fabregas tried to let croatia score.Italy and spain deserved to pass,Cratia racist supporters(they throw bananas and racist louds to Mario Balotelli,+ BUUU louds with italian hymn) better for them to go home

Italian and Spanish fans could never be accused of racism could they............:rolleyes:

Regardless of how good Spain are, Croatia played a great game and were denied a definite penalty from the corner just before Spain scored. Italy, also very dangerous. Should England get through the groups we face a tough tough match for sure.

[pstyle]

please, I hope the patch doe NOT get released today.I

I wish to watch the football tonight, and I fear a patch would be a might distraction.

Regards
moi.

[Al Schlageter]

please, I hope the patch doe NOT get released today.I

I wish to watch the football tonight, and I fear a patch would be a might distraction.

Regards
moi.

Watch the football anyways. Let others find out what still doesn't work.

[pstyle]

Watch the football anyways. Let others find out what still doesn't work.
good strategy! lol.

[SG1_Lud]

Aside the few retarded individuals that support us, we were clearly ripped off in the last two matches. Terrible referees, both german Stark and english Webb.

But from my objective point of view, we should have scored from the opportunities we had. No one can blame us for missing 100% chance vs. Spain last night in 58. (IIRC) minute. 1:1 score would have brought us the 1/4 final.

I have to agree with you, and despite the first place, I am not happy with the way we got it. Croatia deserved more, but the game is unfair sometimes. Congrats for your fighting spirit and my respect to your team ;)

[McHilt]

Congrats for your fighting spirit and my respect to your team ;)

Same here, Croatia had a great fighting spirit yesterday, that's the way, full of energy, whole match long. I really had high hopes for them to pass through to the quarter finals. Too bad...

[T}{OR]

Thanks guys. It was a great game last night, when referees are taken out of the equation. :)

[pupo162]

HA! got home!, maybe i will see some football after all!

[Bewolf]

HA! got home!, maybe i will see some football after all!

England vs. Ukraine will be interesting. Maybe England can manage the removal of my Osprey sig eventually. Or maybe not :D

[arthursmedley]

England v. Ukraine, half-time.........bluuurghhhhhhhh.......two teams, two goalies, two strikers, twenty defenders.

I think I can now safely predict that neither England nor the Ukraine will win Euro2012:-x

[Bewolf]

England v. Ukraine, half-time.........bluuurghhhhhhhh.......two teams, two goalies, two strikers, twenty defenders.

I think I can now safely predict that neither England nor the Ukraine will win Euro2012:-x

Well, if you expect the worse, you can't be dissapointed. Gives a numb feeling, though. Hope the british players do not share that attitude as long as they are still in the game =)

[fruitbat]

England v. Ukraine, half-time.........bluuurghhhhhhhh.......two teams, two goalies, two strikers, twenty defenders.

I think I can now safely predict that neither England nor the Ukraine will win Euro2012:-x

HA! you couldn't of predicted that before this game?

:-)

[Bewolf]

ENGLAAAAND!!!!!

There, I am the only one rooting for that team.

You guys :D

[Bewolf]

1:0 !!!!

And by Rooney, that had to be the case :D

[arthursmedley]

Rooooooooooooooooney!!!!! Lock up your grandmother, Wayne will be celebrating tonight.:cool:

[fruitbat]

lol, the French are loosing!!!!!

Come on Sweden;)

[Bewolf]

What did just happen O.o

[fruitbat]

Fifa don't want goal line tech do they..... still an unbelievable situation.

mind you Ukrainian was blatantly offside when the ball was played into the England half....

looking at the positives, maybe that fat lawyer in charge of Fifa will get assassinated by some angry Ukrainians.

[Bewolf]

That was one of those goals for the history books

[Insuber]

Same here, Croatia had a great fighting spirit yesterday, that's the way, full of energy, whole match long. I really had high hopes for them to pass through to the quarter finals. Too bad...

Let's say the truth, the Spain-Croatia match was a pain in the neck, with the two teams playing slow-motion until Italy scored. Croatia then went berserk but wasted its chances big time, a poor show but enough to scare a bad performing Spain, which passed in the end thanks to an offside goal, paired with a couple of unseen penalties for Croatia. Spain - probable winner of this European - must thank the referee big time for not being in the plane to Madrid.
Btw UEFA is said to be much relieved by the departure of the group of nasty Croatian nazi-hooligans who did their best to tarnish the reputation of a majority of peaceful people. Never in the story of humankind so few idiots did so much damage to so many fellow citizens.
A great bravo to the Irish team and to their great supporters, a true example of sportsmanship and civilization. And bravo to the Sweden team, who is dominating France despite they are already out.

Cheers!

[Mags]

Lovely...Sweden scores again!

[Bewolf]

lol France

[Insuber]

Bravo Sweden and a giant Ibrahimovic as usual. Poor France will meet his fate with Spain, and good-bye. Italy-England will be an interesting match. My bets are on Italy, if Balotelli wakes up.

[McHilt]

Let's say the truth, the Spain-Croatia match was a pain in the neck, with the two teams playing slow-motion until Italy scored.

Cheers!

Don't forget to add IMO
really, it wasn't that bad...

[GBrutus]

England were riding their luck that first half, a better team would have spanked them. Ukraine played some nice football in spells but just weren't incisive enough.

[addman]

Zlataaaaaan Ibrahimovic! Zlataaaan Ibrahimovic! Kongo-Kim! Taco-Svensson! Kung Olof! What a classy way to leave the tournament boys, Brazil 2014 here we come!

P.S Fasen vad man kommer sakna många av de "gamla" gubbarna nu när de lämnar. Alla kval och turneringar man följt de i över 10 år. Stående ovationer till Mellberg och Svensson. Sverige - Argentina VM 2002...remember.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pR8Dnk7v4nQ

[Insuber]

England were riding their luck that first half, a better team would have spanked them. Ukraine played some nice football in spells but just weren't incisive enough.

Ukraine wasn't that bad, and England also owes a big thank you to the referee for that unseen goal scored by Devic and kicked out by Terry from 2 m behind the line. How could the line referee not see that clear goal, is a mystery.

[pupo162]

wow, there were some HUGE fails from the Judges in this match!!

givne that, good 2nd half for both teams, it was a great match seeing both of them actually fightign for it (more of ukraine off course, but england did stand their ground without parking it too much)

Group phase is over, so far my guess is of a Spanish-German final, Cant tell who will win yet..... maybe portugal ;)

[fruitbat]

Ukraine wasn't that bad, and England also owes a big thank you to the referee for that unseen goal scored by and kicked out by Terry from 2 m behind the line. How could the line referee not see that clear goal, is a mystery.

Same way the linesman didn't see that the Ukrainian player was clearly offside when the ball was played into the England half during the build up to it.

Of course it did blatantly cross the line.

All in all, shocking refereeing, yet again.

[SEE]

England v. Ukraine, half-time.........bluuurghhhhhhhh.......two teams, two goalies, two strikers, twenty defenders.

I think I can now safely predict that neither England nor the Ukraine will win Euro2012:-x

That's how Greece won it back in 2004! Well established fact is that teams that consistently win with below par performances are as dangerous as a team loaded with Skill, that have most of the possession, create more chances and yet still lose to a disciplined defensive side who can create one chance and take it. Chelsea v Barcelona/Bayern comes to mind.

England v Italy, I just hope it doesn't go to penalties........:grin:

[mazex]

Zlataaaaaan Ibrahimovic! Zlataaaan Ibrahimovic! Kongo-Kim! Taco-Svensson! Kung Olof! What a classy way to leave the tournament boys, Brazil 2014 here we come!

P.S Fasen vad man kommer sakna många av de "gamla" gubbarna nu när de lämnar. Alla kval och turneringar man följt de i över 10 år. Stående ovationer till Mellberg och Svensson. Sverige - Argentina VM 2002...remember.

Yes! And what a goal by Zlatan! It truly hurts that they could not get one point at least against England... And I don't want to think about the game against Ukraine...

[Insuber]

Germany-Greece will be an interesting match, looking at the Greek revanche sentiment echoed by their newspapers ... :-D

Personally I would bet 5 euros on Greece.

Cheers.

PS: IMO. :-)

[Bewolf]

Germany-Greece will be an interesting match, looking at the Greek revanche sentiment echoed by their newspapers ... :-D

Personally I would bet 5 euros on Greece.

Cheers.

PS: IMO. :-)

Probably something like this :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ur5fGSBsfq8

[Al Schlageter]

I know were to get several containers full of crying towels cheap if Germany can't win.

[Jatta Raso]

i don't see England that weak, for me they're the strongest team physically along with Germany by far, and have really great stamina; besides they have some talent there, don't rule them out that easily.

[Hood]

Ukraine wasn't that bad, and England also owes a big thank you to the referee for that unseen goal scored by Devic and kicked out by Terry from 2 m behind the line. How could the line referee not see that clear goal, is a mystery.

It was at least a mile over the line, no, two miles! More like millimetres... If it had stood it would have been unfair as the person that passed the ball to the striker was offside when the ball was played through to him.

An engineer friend of mine says that a tiny sensor can be placed in the ball, with sensors fitted on a frame behind the posts, and if it goes in a green light can show - no need for review or Hawkeye etc.

Hood

ps come on England - win the thing if only to make the other European nations moan and whinge! :grin:

[Insuber]

It was at least a mile over the line, no, two miles! More like millimetres... If it had stood it would have been unfair as the person that passed the ball to the striker was offside when the ball was played through to him.

An engineer friend of mine says that a tiny sensor can be placed in the ball, with sensors fitted on a frame behind the posts, and if it goes in a green light can show - no need for review or Hawkeye etc.

Hood

ps come on England - win the thing if only to make the other European nations moan and whinge! :grin:

Best wishes to England, may them win this competition! :-)

PS: nobody blames England for the referee's mistake. Mistakes happen.

[Redroach]

Yes! And what a goal by Zlatan! It truly hurts that they could not get one point at least against England... And I don't want to think about the game against Ukraine...

Ibrahimovic. The only guy in Euro 2012 that is never seen with just a single drop of sweat! When sweden plays, a sign saying "Beware, crossing pedestrians!" should be erected in some convenient spot :D
No, it was a nice goal indeed :)

And... maan, what a shame it would be if we really lose to Greece. The mere thought about it makes me shiver... I hope we don't figg up!

P.S.: Wow, England's leading again in "decisive" Wembley goals (or "ghost goals", as they are called on the island :rolleyes: )! It's 2:1 now - 1966 (1:0), 2010 (1:1) and now, 2012 (2:1). Marvelous! :D
Nah, I really like the English!. They are my favourite, apart from my home country! :) But Wembley 1966 still hurts! Oh, by the way: Is Rooney more aerodynamic now?

[Osprey]

I think it would've been more controversial had it been allowed now knowing that the guy who assisted it was offside by 2 yards. I can't remember a single offside in the entire game and obviously the line ref didn't do his job either lol Looks like it was all down to the ref for that one.

I have to say that the standard of refereeing has been excellent in the tournament, they've pretty much ignored the guys diving for fouls and only booked for bad tackles and the most cynical. It has varied of course but at least it's been very consistent and concentrated on the game flowing.

When Sweden gave England a tough game I knew they'd be up for taking on France and give them a tough time. The French team are all tiny and had to deal with some big Swedes, great result Sweden.

[addman]

I think it would've been more controversial had it been allowed now knowing that the guy who assisted it was offside by 2 yards. I can't remember a single offside in the entire game and obviously the line ref didn't do his job either lol Looks like it was all down to the ref for that one.

I have to say that the standard of refereeing has been excellent in the tournament, they've pretty much ignored the guys diving for fouls and only booked for bad tackles and the most cynical. It has varied of course but at least it's been very consistent and concentrated on the game flowing.

When Sweden gave England a tough game I knew they'd be up for taking on France and give them a tough time. The French team are all tiny and had to deal with some big Swedes, great result Sweden.

I agree, the referees, with a few exceptions, have been great this tournament. The games have been great too, except Croatia vs Spain, what a ZZZZZZnoozer.

[Osprey]

To be fair addman nobody has the ability of the Spanish so teams have to use tactics. The Croats played a fantastic game by shutting down their ability to play short quick passing into the box, and then played them on the break. I didn't find that boring, I found it exciting whenever Croatia broke out, and they were unlucky in the end - the real 'group of death', not the 'faux group of death' (Germany/Holland etc) ;)

[Bounder!]

England were pretty poor again but we're through. How the extra official didn't see the ball cross the line I'll never know- the chap who played the assist was offside and that was also missed by the linesman - I don't think that's why it wasn't given, just incompetence by the officials all around. Hopefully it will reignite the argument for goal line technology though.

Oh well, next up Italy

[addman]

To be fair addman nobody has the ability of the Spanish so teams have to use tactics. The Croats played a fantastic game by shutting down their ability to play short quick passing into the box, and then played them on the break. I didn't find that boring, I found it exciting whenever Croatia broke out, and they were unlucky in the end - the real 'group of death', not the 'faux group of death' (Germany/Holland etc) ;)

Yes, indeed, on a tactical level it was a brilliant game but for me personally, I like it when tactical football is combined with a little bit more pace.;)

P.S England - Italy, very hard to predict IMO. England is very unpredictable, sometimes brilliant sometimes comical. Italy is more consistent, score 1 goal and then put the defensive brick wall up. I wouldn't want to bet on that game but if I had to....Italy is Italy. :)

P.S 2 Hart has been too good so far in the goal, I bet he's gonna pull some David Seaman "save" and sink the whole team against Italy.

[Redroach]

Hart looked somewhat bad in the first game imo. Perhaps, it was nervousness.

[arthursmedley]

P.S England - Italy, very hard to predict IMO. England is very unpredictable, sometimes brilliant sometimes comical. Italy is more consistent, score 1 goal and then put the defensive brick wall up. I wouldn't want to bet on that game but if I had to....Italy is Italy. :)

P.S 2 Hart has been too good so far in the goal, I bet he's gonna pull some David Seaman "save" and sink the whole team against Italy.

Agree with all this, especially about Joe Hart, but I think this is a game England will win as long as they can avoid all those Italians falling over in the penalty box.

Germany v. Greece tonight...mmmm....must not miss game I think. Time for another upset possibly? and lets not forget , Greece can score.

[fruitbat]

I like the political ramifications.

If Greece win, they can thank the Germans for bankrolling there football team:evil:

[Osprey]

Don't be annoyed addman, all of that money they borrowed from Germany is being spent on German made products. The Greek people didn't do it but they have to pick up the bits. Still, that's politics, a much nastier than football.....

[Redroach]

Germany v. Greece tonight...mmmm....must not miss game I think. Time for another upset possibly? and lets not forget , Greece can score.

not tonight, its on friday!

[Plt Off JRB Meaker]

England were pretty poor again but we're through. How the extra official didn't see the ball cross the line I'll never know- the chap who played the assist was offside and that was also missed by the linesman - I don't think that's why it wasn't given, just incompetence by the officials all around. Hopefully it will reignite the argument for goal line technology though.

Oh well, next up Italy

Perfectly put Bounder,England were lucky,they know it,and we know it,they'll be no time to sod about with Italy,they'll nail us if we play like this again.

[III/JG53_Don]

dammit.... one evening without football, what should I do with myself? :confused: :-)

[fruitbat]

dammit.... one evening without football, what should I do with myself? :confused: :-)

Iron front's working for a few of the dangerdogz:cool:

http://dangerdogz.com/forums/uploads/gallery/album_5/gallery_607_5_149270.jpg

[arthursmedley]

dammit.... one evening without football, what should I do with myself? :confused: :-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89_IRtL0dOg&feature=player_embedded
:cool:

[pupo162]

back to football:

GOOOOOOOO

POOOORTUUUUGAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLL

http://betting.stanjames.com/sites/default/files/PortugalFans.jpg

[Insuber]

back to football:

GOOOOOOOO

POOOORTUUUUGAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLL


Best wishes to Portugal also! I hope that you win the championship! :cool:

[Bewolf]

back to football:

GOOOOOOOO

POOOORTUUUUGAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLL

http://betting.stanjames.com/sites/default/files/PortugalFans.jpg

Against the Czech Republic you should manage, hehe.
Then again, stranger things have happend.

In the meanwhile it is more DayZ for me.

[Insuber]

What a pity for Czech Republic! Visibly inferior and saved only by a great goalkeeper. Portugal was stably and comfortably installed in the Czech court for the whole second half. The only annoying defect of Portugal is the selfishness of some players.

Cheers!

[pupo162]

Czech Republic parked their bus and hoped for penaltys, unfortunatly, who shoots a lot eventually scores, and Ronaldo did make an amazing goal, the way we switched from behind the defender too suddenly appear ahead of him was just WOW. It was after all 20 against 2 shoots.

And tonight we ahve Greece vs Germany. I think i rather see germany go to the next phase, but an opportunity to win against the greeks on the finals is interesting too ;)

[Bewolf]

Czech Republic parked their bus and hoped for penaltys, unfortunatly, who shoots a lot eventually scores, and Ronaldo did make an amazing goal, the way we switched from behind the defender too suddenly appear ahead of him was just WOW. It was after all 20 against 2 shoots.

And tonight we ahve Greece vs Germany. I think i rather see germany go to the next phase, but an opportunity to win against the greeks on the finals is interesting too ;)

lol, nicely put.

The game was not bad, but the Czech Republik rarely looked dangerous. Deserved win for Portugal, imho.

Tonight will be interesting for sure. Usually I'd say, no problem, we'll get them! But there are some particular circumstances surrounding that game. Lessee what happens.

[mazex]

Czech Republic parked their bus and hoped for penaltys, unfortunatly, who shoots a lot eventually scores, and Ronaldo did make an amazing goal, the way we switched from behind the defender too suddenly appear ahead of him was just WOW. It was after all 20 against 2 shoots.


Portugal sure deserved to win and Ronaldo sure deserved to be the one scoring - too bad he´s such a sissy ;)

Good luck in the semi... A game between Portugal and Spain would be nice!

For the first time in my life I actually want Italy to reach the finals as I'm going to Tuscany next week and will stay there until the finals :)

[Blackdog_kt]

lol, nicely put.

The game was not bad, but the Czech Republik rarely looked dangerous. Deserved win for Portugal, imho.

Tonight will be interesting for sure. Usually I'd say, no problem, we'll get them! But there are some particular circumstances surrounding that game. Lessee what happens.

Well, reasonably i'd say i expect us (Greece) to lose. On the other hand, Greek football is totally random some times and some teams get unpredictable wins against much better European teams if they are motivated. I think it will depend on the kind of media coverage and public figures present in the field.

If fans and players are aware of what papers like Bild are publishing about the whole thing (ok, i know it's not considered a top of the line publication, more like a tabloid, but they are mixing politics with footbal in their articles and people here are reacting to the "trolling") and Mrs Merkel is in the stadium to watch the match, they will probably try much harder to win this one. Otherwise they might simply play this as a normal match, with lower levels of motivation.

I'm not really bothered either way.

[SEE]

I like the German Team but will be supporting Greece. Everyone expects Greece to lose (and they probably will) but I thought that back in 2004 for every game that eventually took them to the finals...........which they also won. After that I gave up predicting the outcome of any match. The Greeks will park the bus and that's about as much as I will predict.

Engalnd V Italy? I expect England to lose simply because I won't be disappointed if they do but footy is a funny old game and they seem to have come up Trumps with 'sketchy' performances!

[Insuber]

Portugal sure deserved to win and Ronaldo sure deserved to be the one scoring - too bad he´s such a sissy ;)

Good luck in the semi... A game between Portugal and Spain would be nice!

For the first time in my life I actually want Italy to reach the finals as I'm going to Tuscany next week and will stay there until the finals :)

Don't miss Siena and the magical Val d'Orcia!

[Bewolf]

Well, reasonably i'd say i expect us (Greece) to lose. On the other hand, Greek football is totally random some times and some teams get unpredictable wins against much better European teams if they are motivated. I think it will depend on the kind of media coverage and public figures present in the field.

Honestly, I do not expect anything in this game. In theory the german team should be better, but in theory the russian team should have been better, too. And never underestimate the factor "will". Especcialy if a Merkel is watching in person.
I am looking forward to a very intense game here.
As long both sides remember it is a game and not politics, however, that could become an awesome match =)


If fans and players are aware of what papers like Bild are publishing about the whole thing (ok, i know it's not considered a top of the line publication, more like a tabloid, but they are mixing politics with footbal in their articles and people here are reacting to the "trolling") and Mrs Merkel is in the stadium to watch the match, they will probably try much harder to win this one. Otherwise they might simply play this as a normal match, with lower levels of motivation.

I'm not really bothered either way.

"More like a tabloid?" It is a tabloid incarnated and enjoys such a reputation that nobody ever admits to reading it. Obviously enough do, anyways. And it has a much greater influence on german public opinion then most would admit. Kinda like the Daily Mail in the UK, same level.

But I have hopes for the game. I think neither side wants to be the baddy and thus we may even see a fairer game then most.

[Insuber]

Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs! Allez les grecs!

[Bewolf]

We all know how this is going to end :cool:

[pupo162]

oh... a msistart? lol

lets go.. im hoping for a germany win, i still think russia desearved more to be playing today.... but victorys is what counts.

[U505]

Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands,Allez les allemands.:-P

[Blackdog_kt]

Honestly, I do not expect anything in this game. In theory the german team should be better, but in theory the russian team should have been better, too. And never underestimate the factor "will". Especcialy if a Merkel is watching in person.
I am looking forward to a very intense game here.
As long both sides remember it is a game and not politics, however, that could become an awesome match =)



"More like a tabloid?" It is a tabloid incarnated and enjoys such a reputation that nobody ever admits to reading it. Obviously enough do, anyways. And it has a much greater influence on german public opinion then most would admit. Kinda like the Daily Mail in the UK, same level.

But I have hopes for the game. I think neither side wants to be the baddy and thus we may even see a fairer game then most.

Yeah, at least the fans will be careful i think in order not to cause bad publicity for their teams :-P

P.S. We are losing 1-0 it seems. Maybe Merkel is not bothering them enough to do something about it :grin:

[kendo65]

Never underestimate the annoyance factor where Frau Merkel is concerned

1-1 !!!!!!!!