***Official 2014 World Cup Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[sporthenry]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Think it is Suarez's now.

 

[TheIronSheik]

i'd like to thank those of you who know what the hell is going on for being patient with those of us who do not!

Agreed!

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Soulfly might have an argument for how it could still be Balotelli's.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Soulfly might have an argument for how it could still be Balotelli's.

Or Josh Gordon.

 

[B Maverick]

I thought this one belonged to the referees?

 

[Celph Titled]

Sepp?

 

[Celph Titled]

The Argentine with the gigantic sign depicting Maradona and Messi as saints has apparently accepted him...

 

[The Gator]

Soulfly might have an argument for how it could still be Balotelli's.

He'll still win the golden boot /soulfly

 

[QuizGuy66]

So according to Wikipedia the Iranian National Team has 5 nicknames. Pretty disappointed that Iron Sheiks isn't one of them.

-QG

 

[QuizGuy66]

A lot of people apparently wearing teal in Salvador today.

I'm sure FIFA must be excited and will announce a crowd of 150% of capacity.

-QG

 

[TheIronSheik]

So according to Wikipedia the Iranian National Team has 5 nicknames. Pretty disappointed that Iron Sheiks isn't one of them.

-QG

An error occurredYou have reached your quota of positive votes for the day

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Are you not entertained?!

Such a fun World Cup.

 

[Jaysus]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Robben, Van Persie, Muller, Maybe Alexis if they upset Brazil.

Benzema

 

[B Maverick]

3-2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[B-Deep]

its raining goals!

 

[The Gator]

Why did Aguero go off?

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

State of Scooby's pre-tourney predictions:

Predictions that made me look like an idiot:

1. England to advance

2. Netherlands to struggle (I didn't do a full preview, but I didn't like their backline and CMs)

3. My entire Charv bracket (done in 5 minutes a month before the Cup, but still).

Predictions that were mixed:

1. Spain to get knocked out with reservations over Casillas (expected them to lose a tight low-scoring game in the knockout rounds).

2. Argentina to win the Cup (too close to call for now, but they need to grow into the tourney)

3. Belgium overrated (we'll see, they have an easy run, but I still don't fancy them much).

Predictions that look pretty, pretty good:

1. Italy to struggle, particularly scoring goals in Balo goes mental (check and check)

2. US to at least play pretty well

3. France and Benzema explosion!!!!!

4. Not a prediction but a tactical subscription, "Germany should play direct to Muller"

 

[Slapdash]

I like the previews

I fancy Germany a good bit better than Scoob, though - and I am also a fan. I think the fact they may not have a true super star striker on the roster will not matter all that much, as they'll be able to form attack in waves and be very difficult to defend. If the German team was at all concerned, I think they would have probably rostered Gomez at the very least.....but to be completely honest, I haven't looked that deep into any of the squads just yet (other than England) as rosters were just recently announced.

I also agree that England is being overlooked, but I guess I'm generally high on England. I think that national teams that play predominantly in the same league (better yet, same few clubs) have a distinct advantage as they are used to style of play and training comes around quicker. But, England could flame out spectacularly just as easily. The fact they opted for younger guys instead of the old guard is a step in the right direction for them.

Oh, and Argentina in my eyes is the most overrated team in the tournament. Besides the fact they piece meal that team together from leagues all over the world, they left the heart and soul of the team off the roster, Messi tends to wilt under world pressure, and they have a great front line, not much else. Zabaleta's form has not been as great this year as years past, I don't like much of that midfield outside of diMaria and maybe Rickey.

(full disclosure, I root all out against two sides in this tournament, Argentina and Spain)

 

[The Gator]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Robben, Van Persie, Muller, Maybe Alexis if they upset Brazil.

Benzema

Yeah, this guy could be on 6 goals right now.

I think it's going to be between Messi, Neymar, Benzema and James.

 

[Slapdash]

State of Scooby's pre-tourney predictions:

Predictions that made me look like an idiot:

1. England to advance

2. Netherlands to struggle (I didn't do a full preview, but I didn't like their backline and CMs)

3. My entire Charv bracket (done in 5 minutes a month before the Cup, but still).

Predictions that were mixed:

1. Spain to get knocked out with reservations over Casillas (expected them to lose a tight low-scoring game in the knockout rounds).

2. Argentina to win the Cup (too close to call for now, but they need to grow into the tourney)

3. Belgium overrated (we'll see, they have an easy run, but I still don't fancy them much).

Predictions that look pretty, pretty good:

1. Italy to struggle, particularly scoring goals in Balo goes mental (check and check)

2. US to at least play pretty well

3. France and Benzema explosion!!!!!

4. Not a prediction but a tactical subscription, "Germany should play direct to Muller"

You were pretty down on Uruguay IIRC

 

[The Gator]

I like the previews

I fancy Germany a good bit better than Scoob, though - and I am also a fan. I think the fact they may not have a true super star striker on the roster will not matter all that much, as they'll be able to form attack in waves and be very difficult to defend. If the German team was at all concerned, I think they would have probably rostered Gomez at the very least.....but to be completely honest, I haven't looked that deep into any of the squads just yet (other than England) as rosters were just recently announced.

I also agree that England is being overlooked, but I guess I'm generally high on England. I think that national teams that play predominantly in the same league (better yet, same few clubs) have a distinct advantage as they are used to style of play and training comes around quicker. But, England could flame out spectacularly just as easily. The fact they opted for younger guys instead of the old guard is a step in the right direction for them.

Oh, and Argentina in my eyes is the most overrated team in the tournament. Besides the fact they piece meal that team together from leagues all over the world, they left the heart and soul of the team off the roster, Messi tends to wilt under world pressure, and they have a great front line, not much else. Zabaleta's form has not been as great this year as years past, I don't like much of that midfield outside of diMaria and maybe Rickey.

(full disclosure, I root all out against two sides in this tournament, Argentina and Spain)

At the time of that post, he was correct

 

[Mjolnirs]

I like the previews

I fancy Germany a good bit better than Scoob, though - and I am also a fan. I think the fact they may not have a true super star striker on the roster will not matter all that much, as they'll be able to form attack in waves and be very difficult to defend. If the German team was at all concerned, I think they would have probably rostered Gomez at the very least.....but to be completely honest, I haven't looked that deep into any of the squads just yet (other than England) as rosters were just recently announced.

I also agree that England is being overlooked, but I guess I'm generally high on England. I think that national teams that play predominantly in the same league (better yet, same few clubs) have a distinct advantage as they are used to style of play and training comes around quicker. But, England could flame out spectacularly just as easily. The fact they opted for younger guys instead of the old guard is a step in the right direction for them.

Oh, and Argentina in my eyes is the most overrated team in the tournament. Besides the fact they piece meal that team together from leagues all over the world, they left the heart and soul of the team off the roster, Messi tends to wilt under world pressure, and they have a great front line, not much else. Zabaleta's form has not been as great this year as years past, I don't like much of that midfield outside of diMaria and maybe Rickey.

(full disclosure, I root all out against two sides in this tournament, Argentina and Spain)

Admit it, you bookmarked that so you could go back and get it.

 

[SmoovySmoov]

For those comparing Suarez to Cantona and Keene keep in mind that this is a different time. Social Media, cameras, connectivity are all greater so there can be greater outrage. Also the game allowed for more of that type of play then it does now.

NO I AM NOT DEFENDING CANTONA OR KEENE

However, Cantona served an 8 month suspension for his actions. 8 MONTHS. Pretty good ban. What has Suarez served?

Keene should have been banned for life for trying to hurt a player intentionally. But again it was a different time and these things happened.

Very often players will tell you that the most insulting thing you can do to someone else is spit on them. Lalas would rather get punched in the face then spit on (I know its lalas but the point is the same). Biting to me is lower then spiting. And its his third time doing it. 3! If you give him a significant ban and he is welcomed back then there is nothing anyone can say about it. If you dont ban him, then comparing him to Cantona and asking how can you be outraged at his coming back when you welcomed Cantona back doesnt work.

Twellman says ban him for life, I think Lalas said 2 years. I say ban him for a year all competitions. Was reading Eurosport with comments from columnists in other countries wanting him banned from anywhere from 1 game to life. One even said it should have only been a yellow card so nothing further should happen. Opinions are all over the place.

OK off my rant now.

And yes it was a clear penalty that gave Greece the win. Despite what certain outlets want to say (bleacher report).

Wait...........the game allowed more for kicking spectators in the chest years ago? You lost me there.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Bonus prediction (retrieved via PM to kupcho):

He was dinged on Saturday, but I'd expect Musa from Nigeria to be fairly dangerous as an AM if he can play.

 

[Slapdash]

I like the previews

I fancy Germany a good bit better than Scoob, though - and I am also a fan. I think the fact they may not have a true super star striker on the roster will not matter all that much, as they'll be able to form attack in waves and be very difficult to defend. If the German team was at all concerned, I think they would have probably rostered Gomez at the very least.....but to be completely honest, I haven't looked that deep into any of the squads just yet (other than England) as rosters were just recently announced.

I also agree that England is being overlooked, but I guess I'm generally high on England. I think that national teams that play predominantly in the same league (better yet, same few clubs) have a distinct advantage as they are used to style of play and training comes around quicker. But, England could flame out spectacularly just as easily. The fact they opted for younger guys instead of the old guard is a step in the right direction for them.

Oh, and Argentina in my eyes is the most overrated team in the tournament. Besides the fact they piece meal that team together from leagues all over the world, they left the heart and soul of the team off the roster, Messi tends to wilt under world pressure, and they have a great front line, not much else. Zabaleta's form has not been as great this year as years past, I don't like much of that midfield outside of diMaria and maybe Rickey.

(full disclosure, I root all out against two sides in this tournament, Argentina and Spain)

Admit it, you bookmarked that so you could go back and get it.

I just searched the thread for "wilt"

 

[Slapdash]

I like the previews

I fancy Germany a good bit better than Scoob, though - and I am also a fan. I think the fact they may not have a true super star striker on the roster will not matter all that much, as they'll be able to form attack in waves and be very difficult to defend. If the German team was at all concerned, I think they would have probably rostered Gomez at the very least.....but to be completely honest, I haven't looked that deep into any of the squads just yet (other than England) as rosters were just recently announced.

I also agree that England is being overlooked, but I guess I'm generally high on England. I think that national teams that play predominantly in the same league (better yet, same few clubs) have a distinct advantage as they are used to style of play and training comes around quicker. But, England could flame out spectacularly just as easily. The fact they opted for younger guys instead of the old guard is a step in the right direction for them.

Oh, and Argentina in my eyes is the most overrated team in the tournament. Besides the fact they piece meal that team together from leagues all over the world, they left the heart and soul of the team off the roster, Messi tends to wilt under world pressure, and they have a great front line, not much else. Zabaleta's form has not been as great this year as years past, I don't like much of that midfield outside of diMaria and maybe Rickey.

(full disclosure, I root all out against two sides in this tournament, Argentina and Spain)

At the time of that post, he was correct

No, he wasn't.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

State of Scooby's pre-tourney predictions:

Predictions that made me look like an idiot:

1. England to advance

2. Netherlands to struggle (I didn't do a full preview, but I didn't like their backline and CMs)

3. My entire Charv bracket (done in 5 minutes a month before the Cup, but still).

Predictions that were mixed:

1. Spain to get knocked out with reservations over Casillas (expected them to lose a tight low-scoring game in the knockout rounds).

2. Argentina to win the Cup (too close to call for now, but they need to grow into the tourney)

3. Belgium overrated (we'll see, they have an easy run, but I still don't fancy them much).

Predictions that look pretty, pretty good:

1. Italy to struggle, particularly scoring goals in Balo goes mental (check and check)

2. US to at least play pretty well

3. France and Benzema explosion!!!!!

4. Not a prediction but a tactical subscription, "Germany should play direct to Muller"

You were pretty down on Uruguay IIRC

I thought England would advance and that Uruguay and Italy were kind of 50/50. I didn't consider Costa Rica a realistic threat beyond possibly surprising one of them with a draw. No chest beating over that one. I was way off.

 

[Captain Quinoa]

State of Scooby's pre-tourney predictions:

Predictions that made me look like an idiot:

1. England to advance

2. Netherlands to struggle (I didn't do a full preview, but I didn't like their backline and CMs)

3. My entire Charv bracket (done in 5 minutes a month before the Cup, but still).

Predictions that were mixed:

1. Spain to get knocked out with reservations over Casillas (expected them to lose a tight low-scoring game in the knockout rounds).

2. Argentina to win the Cup (too close to call for now, but they need to grow into the tourney)

3. Belgium overrated (we'll see, they have an easy run, but I still don't fancy them much).

Predictions that look pretty, pretty good:

1. Italy to struggle, particularly scoring goals in Balo goes mental (check and check)

2. US to at least play pretty well

3. France and Benzema explosion!!!!!

4. Not a prediction but a tactical subscription, "Germany should play direct to Muller"

You were pretty down on Uruguay IIRC

I thought England would advance and that Uruguay and Italy were kind of 50/50. I didn't consider Costa Rica a realistic threat beyond possibly surprising one of them with a draw. No chest beating over that one. I was way off.

Just a bit

 

[B Maverick]

For those comparing Suarez to Cantona and Keene keep in mind that this is a different time. Social Media, cameras, connectivity are all greater so there can be greater outrage. Also the game allowed for more of that type of play then it does now.

NO I AM NOT DEFENDING CANTONA OR KEENE

However, Cantona served an 8 month suspension for his actions. 8 MONTHS. Pretty good ban. What has Suarez served?

Keene should have been banned for life for trying to hurt a player intentionally. But again it was a different time and these things happened.

Very often players will tell you that the most insulting thing you can do to someone else is spit on them. Lalas would rather get punched in the face then spit on (I know its lalas but the point is the same). Biting to me is lower then spiting. And its his third time doing it. 3! If you give him a significant ban and he is welcomed back then there is nothing anyone can say about it. If you dont ban him, then comparing him to Cantona and asking how can you be outraged at his coming back when you welcomed Cantona back doesnt work.

Twellman says ban him for life, I think Lalas said 2 years. I say ban him for a year all competitions. Was reading Eurosport with comments from columnists in other countries wanting him banned from anywhere from 1 game to life. One even said it should have only been a yellow card so nothing further should happen. Opinions are all over the place.

OK off my rant now.

And yes it was a clear penalty that gave Greece the win. Despite what certain outlets want to say (bleacher report).

Wait...........the game allowed more for kicking spectators in the chest years ago? You lost me there.

sorry that was in relation to keene, not cantona. lol

 

[TenTimes]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Are goalies allowed in these types of conversations? Haven't seen any named, but Ochoa from Mexico has been pretty good.

 

[B-Deep]

ok

n00b question

messi rules, he's king of the world, why sit him?

 

[sporthenry]

Did he just break his arm on a shot? That is unfortunate but pretty crazy and an impressive shot.

 

[B Maverick]

ok

n00b question

messi rules, he's king of the world, why sit him?

They are through to the knockout stages, they have depth so give him a break and get ready for the win or go home portion of the tourney

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

 

[B-Deep]

ok

n00b question

messi rules, he's king of the world, why sit him?

They are through to the knockout stages, they have depth so give him a break and get ready for the win or go home portion of the tourney

ahh ok they are already through

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Are goalies allowed in these types of conversations? Haven't seen any named, but Ochoa from Mexico has been pretty good.

Sure. But its increasingly unlikely in a tourney where the offensive stars are scoring. The 2006 Cup should probably be remembered as Cannavaro and Buffon's cup (but I think most remember Zidane).

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Are goalies allowed in these types of conversations? Haven't seen any named, but Ochoa from Mexico has been pretty good.

Absolutely... but Mexico doesn't have much of a shot at winning it or even making the final. Typically 'that guy' carries his team a long way.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

Cheillini should stop wearing that "fresh baked bread" cologne.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

Cheillini should stop wearing that "fresh baked bread" cologne.

Ode de Chaja

 

[B Maverick]

ok

n00b question

messi rules, he's king of the world, why sit him?

They are through to the knockout stages, they have depth so give him a break and get ready for the win or go home portion of the tourney

ahh ok they are already through

i believe so. A nigeria win means Nigeria go through as #1 and Argentina is 2.

Nigeria needs a win or draw to advance. A loss and an Iran win could put Iran through?

 

[B-Deep]

her'e my thought for suarez

suspend him

then before he comes back make him admit the bite in a press conference and explain why he thinks biting is ok, or why he continues to bite. Then make him sit there will you parade in 25 preschoolers of different nationalities to explain to their new "friend" Suarez why biting other kids is wrong.

Have it all piped live to soccer fans the world over

 

[B Maverick]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

Cheillini should stop wearing that "fresh baked bread" cologne.

Ode de Chaja

Maybe Suarez's teammate knew about this and thats why he thought the teeth marks were there already... from a year ago....

 

[SmoovySmoov]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

It's not a premeditated thing. He loses his head, and reacts. It's not a well planned out event.*

(* my opinion - not a sports psychologist)

 

[Spartans Rule]

Nigeria needs a win or draw to advance. A loss and an Iran win could put Iran through?

Correct. But realistically Nigeria is through. Iran is down 2-0 to Bosnia. They haven't scored yet in the tourney so I doubt there's 3 coming in 20 minutes.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Wow... Suarez may have been lining Chiellini up for a taste for a long time (pic from last year)

It's not a premeditated thing. He loses his head, and reacts. It's not a well planned out event.*

(* my opinion - not a sports psychologist)

Yeah... I agree, just thought the pic was funny given yesterday.

 

[Sinn Fein]

3-2 still?

 

[Jaysus]

Messi Goal

Celebration

Musa Goal

Replay

Messi freekick goal

Nigeria tie the game 2-2

 

[Sammy3469]

Would love it if Messi made this 'his' World Cup.

Neymar, Rodriguez... who else might end up with a claim?

Are goalies allowed in these types of conversations? Haven't seen any named, but Ochoa from Mexico has been pretty good.

Absolutely... but Mexico doesn't have much of a shot at winning it or even making the final. Typically 'that guy' carries his team a long way.

Well if they get by the Dutch (in Fortaleza) their quarter opponent is either Costa Rica or Greece. Just saying,

BTW this is one reason I don'tthink it matters much if we finish first or second in the group. Yeah you may have hard Round of 16 and Argentina quarters, but there's a decent shot you're playing a lightweight in the semi's.

 

[Jaysus]

Messi Goal

Celebration

Musa Goal

Replay

Messi freekick goal

Argentina score right away for 3-2

 

[B-Deep]

Stuart James ‏@StuartJamesGNM 10m
Crazy Ghana press conference. Players demanding appearance money in cash. Asked whether they'll keep it, Christian Atsu said: "In our bags."

Stuart James ‏@StuartJamesGNM 7m
Ghana's coach was asked how much money the players are demanding. He laughed and then said: "The players would kill me if I revealed it."