***Official 2014 World Cup Thread*** (2 Viewers)

[NewlyRetired]

In WC 1994, there were two groups (out of 6 groups total) where 3 teams in the group all finished with 6 points.

In the 32 groups since 1994, that has not occurred again.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

 

[Sand]

Since Germany reunited by the 1994 WC their record in the firs round is 11 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss.

Their record in the 3rd game of each tournament is a perfect 5-0-0.

It's a given the US has to plan around getting all their points from the first two matches. IMHO, it would be a small miracle to get a tie and a USA-USSR type upset to beat Gemany in that last game. And for those two at least we get Portugal in Manaus. I'd think that a US team would cope with heat better than a European team. That may be an advantage, though it will drain us for the Germany game. Better than Ghana in Manaus.

 

[QuizGuy66]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

 

[Ted Lange as your Bartender]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/

ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

 

[NewlyRetired]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

So that is 6:00pm eastern? I can't predict if it will help the ratings but it certainly won't hurt them. That game is going to get a massive audiance if the US can pull of something against Ghana..

 

[Ted Lange as your Bartender]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

So that is 6:00pm eastern? I can't predict if it will help the ratings but it certainly won't hurt them. That game is going to get a massive audiance if the US can pull of something against Ghana..

Correct. In the summer, Manaus is the same time zone as EDT

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Nice reminder from the 2010 final why all true footy fans should hope the Netherlands go three and out. Such a disgrace.

Also, how is Howard Webb still reffing international level games?

 

[NewlyRetired]

Saurez, Balotelli and Rooney are all in the same group. Will be fun to see which one does something dumb first

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Saurez, Balotelli and Rooney are all in the same group. Will be fun to see which one does something dumb first

Against all odds, Rooney looks like the level-headed one.

 

[Slapdash]

Nice reminder from the 2010 final why all true footy fans should hope the Netherlands go three and out. Such a disgrace.

Also, how is Howard Webb still reffing international level games?

That kick to Alonso's chest still amazes me.

 

[AAABatteries]

Nice reminder from the 2010 final why all true footy fans should hope the Netherlands go three and out. Such a disgrace.

Also, how is Howard Webb still reffing international level games?

Never been so disappointed while watching a match. First because I have a soft spot for the Netherlands and wanted to see them win. But moreso because of how they played, I agree it was a disgrace and disappointing because I thought they had the horses to compete with Spain and not just kick them off the pitch. Not to defend it in any way but Spain are a bunch of whiny embellishers and that along with it being the final was why Webb did what he did (IMO). I'm actually one of the few who like Webb and think he does an ok job.

 

[AAABatteries]

Nice reminder from the 2010 final why all true footy fans should hope the Netherlands go three and out. Such a disgrace.

Also, how is Howard Webb still reffing international level games?

That kick to Alonso's chest still amazes me.

Yes, that Webb got completely wrong - de Jong should have been sent off.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

I'd rather drink Satan's piss than root for any team with Arjen Robben on it.

 

[dparker713]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

 

[dparker713]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/

ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

 

[T Bell]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

Guzan would be playing on a lot of notable national sides.

 

[NewlyRetired]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.

The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

 

[dparker713]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.

The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

 

[NewlyRetired]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.

The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

I agree, Manaus is going to be a problem for both US and Portugal.

Though acclimation should a help a little even in Sao Paulo. Staying a month in Brazil even in the better weather areas will likely be better than staying just a couple of days after coming in from Europe.

 

[DiStefano]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.

The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

I agree, Manaus is going to be a problem for both US and Portugal.

Though acclimation should a help a little even in Sao Paulo. Staying a month in Brazil even in the better weather areas will likely be better than staying just a couple of days after coming in from Europe.

If you want heat in June, you're better off in Miami at 90 degrees than Sao Paulo at 70.

 

[NewlyRetired]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

I agree, Manaus is going to be a problem for both US and Portugal.Though acclimation should a help a little even in Sao Paulo. Staying a month in Brazil even in the better weather areas will likely be better than staying just a couple of days after coming in from Europe.

If you want heat in June, you're better off in Miami at 90 degrees than Sao Paulo at 70.

From what I have read people are more concerned about the humidity than the heat. The heat won't be horrendous at a 6:00pm start time in Manaus (which is one of the reasons it was shifted up 3 hours), but the humidity could still suck.

I agree that Miami would be better from a weather acclimation aspect. I am sure they will change up camp locations if they feel the need. JK already said multiple countries asked about the US's training location in Sao Paolo.

There could be more to the whole acclimation process than just weather alone.

 

[Steve Tasker]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

Guzan would be playing on a lot of notable national sides.

I'm thinking longer-term. Howard is 34; Guzan is 29. Howard's probably got at least 3-4 more years of quality play. By then, Guzan would be like 33....probably still some left in the tank, but not a spring chicken.

Then what? Bill Hamid? Sean Johnson? Richard Sanchez?

ETA - though I suppose it may not really be feasible to project these kinds of things like 8 years out.

 

[Sammy3469]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

I agree, Manaus is going to be a problem for both US and Portugal.Though acclimation should a help a little even in Sao Paulo. Staying a month in Brazil even in the better weather areas will likely be better than staying just a couple of days after coming in from Europe.

If you want heat in June, you're better off in Miami at 90 degrees than Sao Paulo at 70.

From what I have read people are more concerned about the humidity than the heat. The heat won't be horrendous at a 6:00pm start time in Manaus (which is one of the reasons it was shifted up 3 hours), but the humidity could still suck.I agree that Miami would be better from a weather acclimation aspect. I am sure they will change up camp locations if they feel the need. JK already said multiple countries asked about the US's training location in Sao Paolo.

There could be more to the whole acclimation process than just weather alone.

Well even if we advance the round of 16 game is in ASalvador or Fortaleza. There's really no need to be stationed in Sao Paolo. May as well have one of the tropical beach cities as the teams hub.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

Guzan would be playing on a lot of notable national sides.

I'm thinking longer-term. Howard is 34; Guzan is 29. Howard's probably got at least 3-4 more years of quality play. By then, Guzan would be like 33....probably still some left in the tank, but not a spring chicken.Then what? Bill Hamid? Sean Johnson? Richard Sanchez?

ETA - though I suppose it may not really be feasible to project these kinds of things like 8 years out.

Cody Cropper is just 20 and he has already moved up the chain at Southhampton, now settled in as the #2. By the time Guzan is done, hopefully Cropper is a #1 in the EPL.

 

[Christo]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

Guzan would be playing on a lot of notable national sides.

I'm thinking longer-term. Howard is 34; Guzan is 29. Howard's probably got at least 3-4 more years of quality play. By then, Guzan would be like 33....probably still some left in the tank, but not a spring chicken.Then what? Bill Hamid? Sean Johnson? Richard Sanchez?

ETA - though I suppose it may not really be feasible to project these kinds of things like 8 years out.

Cody Cropper is just 20 and he has already moved up the chain at Southhampton, now settled in as the #2. By the time Guzan is done, hopefully Cropper is a #1 in the EPL.

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

 

[The Z Machine]

Speaking of dual-eligible Mexican-American players, is there any chance Richard Sanchez makes the switch? He seems to be making a lot of appearances for Mexican youth teams, but he was born and raised in the US and plays for American club teams. Timmy isn't getting any younger.

Guzan is more than ready.

Guzan would be playing on a lot of notable national sides.

I'm thinking longer-term. Howard is 34; Guzan is 29. Howard's probably got at least 3-4 more years of quality play. By then, Guzan would be like 33....probably still some left in the tank, but not a spring chicken.Then what? Bill Hamid? Sean Johnson? Richard Sanchez?

ETA - though I suppose it may not really be feasible to project these kinds of things like 8 years out.

Cody Cropper is just 20 and he has already moved up the chain at Southhampton, now settled in as the #2. By the time Guzan is done, hopefully Cropper is a #1 in the EPL.

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

 

[fatguyinalittlecoat]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

I've always assumed it's because it requires basic athleticism and skills that you acquire playing other sports. There are lots of technical things that have to be learned, but if you're big and can move and have great hand-eye coordination you've got a good jump on GK in a way that you probably don't in terms of playing the field. Just a guess though.

 

[DiStefano]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

I've always assumed it's because it requires basic athleticism and skills that you acquire playing other sports. There are lots of technical things that have to be learned, but if you're big and can move and have great hand-eye coordination you've got a good jump on GK in a way that you probably don't in terms of playing the field. Just a guess though.

I think you're spot on. In any sport, it's always about the competition. Our GK's are athletic, used to handling the ball from other sports, etc. So our GK's show up well.

It's when you put us up against those who have footled the ball since they were babies, that our footlers come up short, because the other countries are drawing from a far larger pool of footlers.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

I've always assumed it's because it requires basic athleticism and skills that you acquire playing other sports. There are lots of technical things that have to be learned, but if you're big and can move and have great hand-eye coordination you've got a good jump on GK in a way that you probably don't in terms of playing the field. Just a guess though.

I don't think we are any where near as good as we used to be in goal in terms of depth in my opinion. Think what ever people want of Meola, but when he was in shape he was a very nice keeper. Having Keller, Friedel and Meola all at the same time was a blessing not too many countries get to enjoy.

For the last few years it has really been just Howard alone at the top. Guzan was a defacto #2 and he was not getting playing time until last season.

In MLS, no one really stands out. Old tiny man Rimando is probably still the best in the league, which should not be happening if the position was continuing to grow.

Hamid and Johnson both should have made some progress by now but both continue to pull off brilliant saves while letting in goals that they should not. They are young yet, but neither are close to where Howard was at their age IMO.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

True ever since Stallone was between the sticks in Victory.

No position has evolved more in the past 30 or so years than goalkeeper. Before Lev Yashin, being a goaltender was exclusively about shot stopping. And if you look back to World Cup footage from even the late 70s, you'll see goaltenders who appear pretty bad at even that. Go back and look at Pele videos or something and the quality of goalkeeping from the Brazilian footage is shocking.

The US has pretty consistently been able to develop excellent shot stoppers like Keller, Friedel, Howard, and Guzan. One thing to worry about, though, is that I think that eventually that will not be enough. Today's tactics increasingly rely on defenders to play high lines and compress the field. In that situation, you need a mobile and engaged goal keeper (a "keeper-sweeper") who can break up through balls and balls over the top. You also increasingly need a keeper who is very comfortable with his feet and who can pass and otherwise distribute out of the back ( the USMNT plays its best out of the back when Rimando is in goal, IMO, for this reason). And that gives me pause. Because I'm sure that Hamid and Johnson will develop into excellent shot stoppers. In many ways, they already have. But I'm less convinced that they'll involve into consistently excellent decision makers, and that's bigger part of the position than it was even 10 or 15 years ago.

 

[QuizGuy66]

So the Portugal game time got moved later (ESPN article unhelpfully didn't specify the time). 6 other games switched as well (FIFPro has been pushing to get the games out of the worst heat - just wait until 2022).

So I stand corrected about the possibilty of games moving time - I still don't them doing it for our other two games.

-QG

US-Portugal was pushed back three hours to 6PM local timehttp://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2013/12/07/world-cup-fixture-times-changed/ETA: this move probably benefits Portugal more than the US

I don't think the US will deal with tropical heat any better than a European team. Many of the US players are based in Europe and the team wilted in the heat of Saprissa Stadium.

I think you mean the Estadio Olimpico stadium in San Pedro Sula as we did not play at Saprissa this cycle.The Honduras game was the game our German based players looked near death. It was also the game JK admitted he made a mistake with the roster not understanding that players can't basically step off a plane and play in those conditions.

This will be minimized in the WC as most teams will have about a month to acclimate.

Yeah, I was thinking of that game. The team played like garbage. As far as acclimating, I thought I heard the training site is going to be in Sao Paulo. Not sure that will particularly help regarding the game in Manaus.

I agree, Manaus is going to be a problem for both US and Portugal.Though acclimation should a help a little even in Sao Paulo. Staying a month in Brazil even in the better weather areas will likely be better than staying just a couple of days after coming in from Europe.

If you want heat in June, you're better off in Miami at 90 degrees than Sao Paulo at 70.

From what I have read people are more concerned about the humidity than the heat. The heat won't be horrendous at a 6:00pm start time in Manaus (which is one of the reasons it was shifted up 3 hours), but the humidity could still suck.I agree that Miami would be better from a weather acclimation aspect. I am sure they will change up camp locations if they feel the need. JK already said multiple countries asked about the US's training location in Sao Paolo.

There could be more to the whole acclimation process than just weather alone.

Well even if we advance the round of 16 game is in ASalvador or Fortaleza. There's really no need to be stationed in Sao Paolo. May as well have one of the tropical beach cities as the teams hub.

Or keep 'em in the jungle if JK doesn't want them distracted

-QG

 

[NewlyRetired]

I have been wanting to try a comparison of the 2010 squad to the current squad today.

I will compare them in similar 4-4-2 formations to make things easier. I will use the players who got the most starts in the 2010 WC as the defacto starters. If there were ties, I simply chose who I thought was the better player

I will compare for the first level subs as well.

Starters

Goalkeeper

2010: Howard

2014: Howard

Verdict: I give this a push. Howard was a touch quicker in 2010, but I continue to be impressed by not only his shot stopping abilities, but his overall game. He is still a touch hesitant in total command of crosses but that has not changed much since 2010.

Leftback

2010: Bornstein

2014: DMB

Verdict: Probably a slight advantage to DMB. No one liked Bornstein of course but lets face it, no one is going to be scared charging down DMB's side this tournament either.

Centerbacks

2010: Demerit, Bocanegra

2014: Gonzo, Besler

Verdict: Note that Demerit and Boca were not the starters when the tournament started, as Gooch limped his way through the first two games, but these two took over for the last two and the center got stronger. I give the edge to 2010 here. Demerit was very good in that position during the tournament and Boca was just simply a better player then than Besler is right now.

Rightbacks

2010: Cherundolo

2014: Evans

Verdict: yeah, not much to discuss here. Cher by a wide wide margin is the better right back.

Central Midfielders

2010: Clark, Bradley

2014: Jones, Bradley

Verdict: I have made no bones about my lack of love for Jones but 2014 is clearly better. Bradley of 2014 should be better than Bradley of 2010 and Jones is a very nice upgrade on Ricardo who was out of his depth.

Note: Clark and Gooch were two of Bob Bradley's three (Findley) clear mistakes in 2010 IMO. Edu should have been the first choice starter in place of Clark, which would have made this comparison more interesting, but I still would have given the edge to 2014.

Right MIdfielder

2010: Dempsey

2014: Donovan

Verdict: I think Landon will still have enough left for his last dance to pull a surprise but you have to give the edge to the 2010 Dempsey here, and maybe by a decent margin

Left Midfielder

2010: Donovan

2014: Johnson (Fab)

Verdict: While I have not hid my dislike of Jones, the same can be said of not hiding my like of Fab. I think he is going to be a key player this summer not only in providing service to Jozy, but also in helping out DMB. That being said, Landon was probably our best player in 2010. I have to give the edge to Landon here

Strikers

2010: Jozy, Findley

2014: Jozy, Dempsey/Bacon

Verdict: I will keep Dempsey and Bacon together here as I am unsure who will start. If Dempsey regains his form he starts, if not, a very good Bacon starts. Only issue I see here would be JK starting a clearly out of form Dempsey. While not the gigantic gap like at RB, there is an enormous improvement for what we can start in 2014, over 2010.

First Level Subs

Goalkeeper:

2010: Guzan

2014: Guzan

Verdict: Sad that it will likely not come into play but this might be the largest improvement from the 2010 to 2014 side.

Defenders

2010: Goodson, Gooch, Spector

2014: Goodson, Brooks, Cameron

Verdict: Gooch was a mess, lowering the quality of the reserve defenders in 2010. 2014 is a clear improvement

Midfielders:

2010: Benny, Edu, Torres

2014: Zusi, Bedoya, Cameron

Verdict: Benny was a very good player for us back in 2010 as a strong technical player off the bench. But the human jacknife of Cam puts the 2014 group slightly over the top. Both Zusi and Bedoya are likely at their peak playing abilities and I think Cam should arguably be starting over Jones.

Strikers:

2010: Buddle, Herc

2014: Dempsey/Bacon, EJ

Verdict: If Dempsey returns to a good level, having Bacon on the bench puts 2014 over 2010 by a wide margin. EJ also brings some items in terms of last gasp pumping balls into the box that give the 2014 reserves an edge IMO.

========================

Overall Verdict:

2014 starters are not in any way a slam dunk better group than 2010 IMO. There is give and take. I would give the slight edge to 2014, but the grand canyon sized gap between Cher and Evans is daunting.

The first level subs are by far clearly better in 2014 than they were in 2010. The 2010 midfielders were a decent group, but for every other position, 2014 shows a large improvement IMO.

 

[NewlyRetired]

For those who mentioned south Florida as a possible training spot for the US, it looks like there is a chance the US will train in Miami at least for a short while as a possible friendly with England is being lined up in May in Miami.

 

[fatguyinalittlecoat]

last gasp pumping ball into the box

 

[T Bell]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

I've always assumed it's because it requires basic athleticism and skills that you acquire playing other sports. There are lots of technical things that have to be learned, but if you're big and can move and have great hand-eye coordination you've got a good jump on GK in a way that you probably don't in terms of playing the field. Just a guess though.

I think you're spot on. In any sport, it's always about the competition. Our GK's are athletic, used to handling the ball from other sports, etc. So our GK's show up well.

It's when you put us up against those who have footled the ball since they were babies, that our footlers come up short, because the other countries are drawing from a far larger pool of footlers.

The Brits for example, who are as soccer crazy as any country, are notorious for lamenting their relative lack of goalkeeping talent. Joe Hart is as good as they've had in quite some time and even he's in a slump right now and out of favor. It's why you've seen so many Americans do well in the PL as GK's relative to other positions. We seem to emphasize more sports that require or involve manual dexterity, e.g. (American) football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, which you just don't see played all that much in Britain.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

I think part of this narrative is still expectations. When the English talk about being weak at GK, they're saying that they don't have a Gordon Banks, a Peter Shilton, or a David Seaman. But those three guys were better (as compared to their peers) than Tony Meola, Kasey Keller, Brad Friedel, and Tim Howard too.

David James is one of the "poor" keepers that England has used since Seaman retired. But he had every bit as long and successful an EPL career as Freidel has had. Greene was poor in 2010, but a lot of that came down to Capello's reluctance to use Hart, who was already one of the best keepers in the EPL.

I don't put a ton of stock in Hart's current lack of form. That tends to ebb and flow for keepers. You can find messages on the big soccer thread where Cletius and I agree that Cech has lost it. He was back to being one of the very best keepers in the world last year (and continues to keep a huge talent in Courtois on loan). I don't think Hart's dip in form is any worse than Cassilas's or Reina's.

 

[Sammy3469]

Overall Verdict:

2014 starters are not in any way a slam dunk better group than 2010 IMO. There is give and take. I would give the slight edge to 2014, but the grand canyon sized gap between Cher and Evans is daunting.

The first level subs are by far clearly better in 2014 than they were in 2010. The 2010 midfielders were a decent group, but for every other position, 2014 shows a large improvement IMO.

I think you're underestimating the improvement down the middle at least on the defensive side of the ball. This team hasn't been leaking goals using the first choice team in qualifying (Mexico had no answer when we made them go out wide in both games). I forgot how weak that first goal was and the second wasn't much better against Ghana. (I do have to say, watching the extended highlights gives me some more than a little hope since we controlled the majority of that game and it's not like Ghana has vastly improved.) Having said that, I don't have much faith either outside back holding up well against Ronaldo the entire match (maybe he wilts in the humidity...one can hope) and Germany is an entirely bigger badder beast.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

I think the US should be able to hold possession more against Ghana. I also think it's encouraging that Ghana's best player has Greg Oden's knees.

I think it will be very interesting to see if JK plays horses for courses in the group stage. I can think of lots of creative ways that I might try to play Portugal, but they all require a lineup or a formation that the USMNT doesn't really play (essentially I'd play a 3-5-2 with Jones as the right wing back shadowing Ronaldo and 3 CBs congesting the middle of the penalty area while Bradley presses Moutinho up high, it would give up some Ronaldo thunderbolts from distance, but I'm content to let him have those).

 

[CletiusMaximus]

I think GK is the last position the US has to worry about.

Agreed. There are ALWAYS some good players that can be called upon by the USMNT to tend the net.

Why is this true? I feel like even 20 years ago when the U.S. team was much worse, the bright spot was always that we had a decent keeper.

As we learned earlier in this thread, we can always just plug in an NBA player at GK he'll be untouchable.

 

[The Z Machine]

You guys see the video (I think from Uruguay) about the draw being rigged?

 

[NewlyRetired]

You guys see the video (I think from Uruguay) about the draw being rigged?

shocking I tell you

 

[T Bell]

You guys see the video (I think from Uruguay) about the draw being rigged?

No. Cliffs Notes?

 

[The Z Machine]

http://www.taringa.net/posts/deportes/17389245/Manipulacion-sorteo-Fifa-mundial-2014.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Taringa%2Fultimos-post+%28Taringa.net+-+%C3%9Altimos+post%29

Basicaly, Jerome Valcke opens the balls under the desk out of view and his papers aren't rolled up like the ones from the lady, who opens them in the air.

 

[Sammy3469]

You guys see the video (I think from Uruguay) about the draw being rigged?

No. Cliffs Notes?

Casically he takes the names from the balls below the podium so the TV cameras can't see what his hands are doing. Frankly, it's pretty lame. If they were going to rig it, there are much better ways to rig it.

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

I don't have much faith either outside back holding up well against Ronaldo the entire match (maybe he wilts in the humidity...one can hope) and Germany is an entirely bigger badder beast.

Maybe we can lock Evans in a room in the jungle with vid of Tony Sanneh p0wning Luis Figo playing on infinite loop.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Occasionally, when I'm very bored over the next 6 months, I will try to do a team-specific preview. For now, I'm going to avoid the US, as everyone will be talking about them. The subject of this maiden installment will be England. We begin with the position specific breakdown (* denotes likely starters).

Goalkeepers -- Joe Hart (*), Ben Foster?, Fraser Forster?, Jack Butland? -- Before Euro 2012, Hart would have made many lists of the top 5 keepers in the world and most lists of the top 10. One embarrassing encounter with Pirlo later, the continuing narrative is of a keeper with shattered confidence. Will he regain his confidence? Hart did lead the EPL in clean sheets last year (by a decent margin). I don't expect him to be a liability. The backups are not inspiring (Butland is very talented, but still only 20).

Left Back -- A$hley Cole, Leighton Baines, Kieran Gibbs (Luke Shaw?) -- Cole has been one of the very best left back in the world for over a decade. But like Hart, a current crisis of form leaves him in the manager's doghouse, and unlike Hart, Cole is clearly past his best. Baines has seemed like the heir apparent in the position for years, and would provide a delicious left-footed option for set pieces and an aggressive mind-set on the flank where England is weakest. But he too seems a bit off his game this season (and is dealing with injuries). Gibbs has been injury prone in the past, but is perhaps the closest to a modern version of Cole's typical two-way game. At just 18, Shaw is likely another cycle away, but has been every bit good enough to be considered by Roy considering his form for Southampton.

Center Back -- Gary Cahill (*), Phil Jagielka, Ryan Shawcross, Michael Dawson, Phil Jones (Rio Ferdinand? John Terry?) -- This appears to England's greatest weakness. These CBs are all "solid" EPL players, but none can lay claim to being in the class of Rio or Terry in their prime. Cahill looks a lock to start. I don't think either Ferdinand or Terry are in good enough form to consider tolerating all the negatives they'd bring. Jagielka is probably the best choice as a complementary ball-playing CB. Dawson is the best choice if Roy goes for all blood and guts heroic defending. Jones is more likely to see time in CM, but could be a factor in a pinch.

Right Back -- Glen Johnson (*), Kyle Walker -- A position of strength. Johnson is the incumbent, but there is little to choose from between the two. Either would among the better RBs in the tourney. Both make the odd defensive error, but both are capable of real monster two way performances (Walker's performance against Sunderland this weekend is a good example).

Center Midfield -- Steven Gerrard (*), Jack Wilshere (*), Michael Carrick, Phil Jones, Frank Lampard -- The pecking order here looks pretty clear to me. Gerrard has re-invented himself nicely into a holding midfielder with excellent distribution skills. Wilshere looks to be the most natural partnership. Jones is a great option for specific games (I think he may man-mark Suarez against Uruguay with Wilshere being removed). Wilshere's form is one of the great unknowns of the tournament. He could cement his place as the Great English Hope or he could become the latest English pantomime villain. Lamps and Carrick are unknowns. Carrick refused to go to 2010 unless he was named a starter. Lampard is unlikely to be able to put in 90 minute performances in Brazil, but seems a good candidate for a cameo if England are chasing the game. No other midfielder is more likely to pop up with a goal.

Attacking Midfield Left -- Alex Oxlade Chamberlain (*), Adam Lallana, (Ashley Young?, James Milner? ) -- The weakest link in the side. Chamberlain has tended to play there when I've seen them, despite it not being his natural position. Lallana is an obvious candidate considering his form for Southampton, but was not great in his only cap against Chile. He provides less natural width. Young is an obvious candidate, but he drives me nuts. Milner provided little more than graft and determination and is still remembered for being skinned repeatedly by Donovan in 2010 (Milner had the flu, in fairness).

Attacking Midfield Center/Second Striker -- Wayne Rooney (*), Ross Barkley, Wilshere, Lallana -- Could this be the major competition for Rooney? He'll likely get less press than Suarez and Balotelli in his own group, but he remains the one Englishman who can be a true World Class star. Should benefit from having a defined role on the team, but if Roy decides to use him as a Number 9, there are interesting options to play behind him. Barkley is just blossoming as a game-changer from the CAM position. I don't think Wilshere is really an AM, but England and Arsenal play him there at times.

Attacking Midfield Right -- Theo Walcott(*), Andros Townsend, Wilshere (Raheem Sterling?) -- Walcott's weaknesses have been amply discussed. He doesn't always make the right decision. His crossing isn't always effective. But his finishing has improved and his pace quite simply changes opposing team's tactics, forcing the defensive line back and giving Rooney more space between the lines. Townsend, IMO, flatters to deceive a bit. He's a dangerous player, who too often takes the selfish option. But he's also a potential game winner and a great choice as an impact sub. Sterling likely won't make the team if Townsend does. Wilshere provides a different option if Roy wants to keep more possession and use his RB to whip in crosses.

Striker -- Daniel Sturridge (*), Rooney, (Danny Welbeck? Rickie Lambert? Andy Carroll?) -- Sturridge is another player who may benefit from a comparative lack of hype. Is he really a worse club player than Balotelli at this point? He hasn't played enough with Rooney to be sure, but they should complement each other in the same way that Suarez complements Sturridge. Welbeck has an excellent goal scoring record for England, despite his club form. Lambert and Steven Seagal circa 1989 provide hold up play and an aerial threat not found with other forwards. Still probably not enough to justify their inclusion.

Strengths - CM, nice blend of youth and experience.

Weaknesses- LAM, CB, lack of "Plan B" goals.

X-Factor -- Rooney

The verdict -- I think England are being overlooked a bit. I think they will advance and I wouldn't be shocked by a surprise semi-finals appearance.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

Lots of rumors that Walcott may not be selected for the WC, right?

 

[Good Posting Judge]

While researching for fantasy EPL, I noticed that Hart's save percentage has been pretty mediocre, even before this year. I don't know if that's a result of City's defense squashing all half-chances but not opps. where Hart has no chance.

So if England goes through, do you think it's at the expense of Uruguay or Italy? I'm assuming you project (as does everyone) that CR is dead-meat.

Gerrard out for six weeks, btw.