***Official Soccer Discussion Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[Good Posting Judge]

Organizers are doing their part to make sure everything goes smooth at the "Office" in Kingston, Jamaica, this Friday. Check out this advisory distributed to fans ahead of the match: “The Police are advising supporters … that no firearms, knives, drugs, ice picks, machetes, glass bottles or any other items that can be used to cause serious harm or injury, will be allowed inside the venues.”

That doesn't seem very irie.

 

[NewlyRetired]

lots of info in this article with direct quotes from Chandler

It has been almost a year since Timmy Chandler last played for the U.S. men's national team and although he has turned down a number of recent call-ups due to injuries or fatigue, the talented youngster insists he is still open to representing the United States in the near future.Despite not suiting up for the U.S. team since last November's friendly win over Slovenia, and even with him rejecting cap-tying matches throughout the year, Chandler insists he is still interested in playing for the United States. The 22-year-old right back maintains that FC Nurnberg are currently his first priority, but he is not opposed to getting called into the next USMNT camp, which will take place next month ahead of two cap-tying World Cup qualifiers against Guatemala and Antigua & Barbuda."I'm still happy to play for the U.S. national team but right now I want to commit 100 percent to Nurnberg and stay here with the team during this time," Chandler told SBI through a translator. "But in October and until the rest of the year there are enough games for the national team and if [u.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann] still wants to invite me, there's still an opportunity I'll play."Chandler admitted that he does stay in contact with Klinsmann on a regular basis and he also said the two talked in the days leading up to the U.S. team's September camp. Chandler did not go in detail about was discussed, nor if the conversation was about a call-up or just as a means to keep a line of communication open between the two.Why then has he been so reluctant to play for the United States?Chandler explains that part of the reason is due to his commitment to Nurnberg, the club that gave him his first chance as a professional, but he also does not shy away from his dislike of the heavy travel that typically comes with playing for the U.S. team."It's always a great experience to see other cities and play for the U.S. national team," said Chandler. "The only thing I don't like about it is the traveling.""That is a part of it and I use the example of the (recent) Mexico game. For four days I would have had to travel to Mexico and back, right when the season started here, so yes that is part of it."Regardless of his reasoning (Chandler cited the need for rest either before or in the aftermath of both instances), American fans are, by all accounts, unhappy with the fullback's apparent lack of commitment to the U.S. jersey. Chandler is equally not pleased with their discontentment, but he believes there is not much that can be done about that situation right now."Obviously, I'm not happy if they think like this," said Chandler. "But they're not in my head, they don't know how I feel about it, so there's not much I can do about it."Chandler also downplayed the notion that he has spoken to or is waiting to hear from the German National team, though he stopped short of saying unequivocally that he would never play for Germany."There has still been no contact from the German federation," said Chandler. "I've always spoken openly about everything with Klinsmann. The only thing is that I want to concentrate on Nurnberg right now."In terms of World Cup aspirations, Chandler does want to play in the 2014 competition in Brazil. It would be the latest career accomplishment for him should he get there, but Chandler knows it is not completely in his hands, even if he says he is still 'totally open to playing for the United States.'"I am thinking about (the World Cup), but I just want to see how the next few weeks and months go along," said Chandler, "and if Klinsmann still wants to invite me, we'll see about that."Aside from his international standing, Chandler is also in the midst of another season with Nurnberg. He reportedly received interest from VfB Stuttgart earlier this year, but opted to re-sign with Nurnberg this past spring on a deal that runs through 2015 to demonstrate his loyalty to them."I wanted to show that Nurnberg is one of the bigger teams of the Bundesliga and it was a decision of the heart," said Chandler. "I wanted to show Nurnberg that I'm thankful for what I've achieved in my time with the team so far."The current season got off to a poor start for Nurnberg and Chandler, as they suffered a shocking 3-2 extra time loss to fourth division club Havelse in the first round of DFB Pokal. It was a wake-up call for Chandler and his club, and they responded by grabbing two key results.Nurnberg began the Bundesliga campaign by first beating Hamburg SV, 1-0, and they proceeded to tie with defending champions Borussia Dortmund, 1-1. "We started well with four points against good teams in Hamburg and Dortmund and we want to gain 40 points that will keep us in the league as soon as we can," said Chandler. "We will try to keep going the way we started (the league)."Playing in the Bundesliga does not just give Chandler a chance to get consistent minutes for the club he thinks so fondly of. It also gives him a chance to talk to fellow German-Americans such as Jermaine Jones, Fabian Johnson and Danny Williams about how the U.S. team is doing."I still am in contact with all of them, texting on the phone, when we meet in league games," said Chandler. "That doesn't depend on me being invited to the national team or being there. We're in contact and yes we talk about the U.S. team as well when they do."Chandler's relationships with his U.S. teammates, and his professed affection for playing for the United States suggests that Chandler is a player who plans on being a U.S. National Team fixture for years to come. That still isn't likely to ease fears that Chandler is secretly holding out to play for Germany.The only thing that will ease those fears and re-establish Chandler as a future U.S. star is if and when Chandler plays in a World Cup qualifier, which would tie him to the USMNT permanently. His next chance, and perhaps his last chance, to do that will come in October.

 

[jonessed]

lots of info in this article with direct quotes from Chandler

That still just seems to boil down to the idea that he likes the US Team, but wants to play for Germany if he can get the chance. I would probably feel the same way if I was in his shoes.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

Nani supposedly talking to Zenit.

 

[guru_007]

Nani to Zenit rumors are kind of old news, and I don't think anything will come of it. Zenit allegedly had a 30M offer for Nani, and SAF told them he was not ready to part with him. FFS, 30M should have been a done deal, imho. I like Nani, really dynamic player, but his position is a position United can afford to lose a player, and Nani just hasn't been a difference maker, more often than not. Of course, the moment they would have accepted, Valencia would get hurt, but you need to take that kind of money for Nani, in my eyes. United has plenty other positions that need be addressed, and it's clear that the players they are attempting to land are going to take big money.

 

[jonessed]

Nani to Zenit rumors are kind of old news, and I don't think anything will come of it. Zenit allegedly had a 30M offer for Nani, and SAF told them he was not ready to part with him. FFS, 30M should have been a done deal, imho. I like Nani, really dynamic player, but his position is a position United can afford to lose a player, and Nani just hasn't been a difference maker, more often than not. Of course, the moment they would have accepted, Valencia would get hurt, but you need to take that kind of money for Nani, in my eyes. United has plenty other positions that need be addressed, and it's clear that the players they are attempting to land are going to take big money.

I can't imagine they offerd 30M. United would have been all over that.Nani just doesn't fit the United "team" idea. Ferguson really doesn't like attitude and Nani has a ton of it and he's not afraid to let it show. I don't see him staying there after this season.

 

[guru_007]

Nani to Zenit rumors are kind of old news, and I don't think anything will come of it. Zenit allegedly had a 30M offer for Nani, and SAF told them he was not ready to part with him. FFS, 30M should have been a done deal, imho. I like Nani, really dynamic player, but his position is a position United can afford to lose a player, and Nani just hasn't been a difference maker, more often than not. Of course, the moment they would have accepted, Valencia would get hurt, but you need to take that kind of money for Nani, in my eyes. United has plenty other positions that need be addressed, and it's clear that the players they are attempting to land are going to take big money.

I can't imagine they offerd 30M. United would have been all over that.Nani just doesn't fit the United "team" idea. Ferguson really doesn't like attitude and Nani has a ton of it and he's not afraid to let it show. I don't see him staying there after this season.

http://11x2.com/news/1073203/nani-may-still-exit-man-united-as-zenit-st-petersburg-ready-30m-transfer-bid been all over. I don't know why they wouldn't do it. but who am I

 

[guru_007]

Oh, one bit of disappointing news (for me at least) that happened was DelPiero signed on with Syndey FC. I was hoping he would sign on with a team that may actually play games during a time when I'm awake...Instead he goes to Australia

 

[jonessed]

Nani to Zenit rumors are kind of old news, and I don't think anything will come of it. Zenit allegedly had a 30M offer for Nani, and SAF told them he was not ready to part with him. FFS, 30M should have been a done deal, imho. I like Nani, really dynamic player, but his position is a position United can afford to lose a player, and Nani just hasn't been a difference maker, more often than not. Of course, the moment they would have accepted, Valencia would get hurt, but you need to take that kind of money for Nani, in my eyes. United has plenty other positions that need be addressed, and it's clear that the players they are attempting to land are going to take big money.

I can't imagine they offerd 30M. United would have been all over that.Nani just doesn't fit the United "team" idea. Ferguson really doesn't like attitude and Nani has a ton of it and he's not afraid to let it show. I don't see him staying there after this season.

http://11x2.com/news/1073203/nani-may-still-exit-man-united-as-zenit-st-petersburg-ready-30m-transfer-bid been all over. I don't know why they wouldn't do it. but who am I

I have no doubt it has been reported all over, but that's pretty much how these things go. Unless it's being reported by several legitimate news sources it's generally crap.

 

[Eephus]

lots of info in this article with direct quotes from Chandler

That still just seems to boil down to the idea that he likes the US Team, but wants to play for Germany if he can get the chance. I would probably feel the same way if I was in his shoes.

Frankfurt to Tegucigalpa flights probably aren't a lot of fun.If you read between the lines, keeping him as a US squad regular will be a chore even if he pledges his international future here. He's doesn't sound totally committed to the idea and he'll be a likely question mark for mid-season friendlies and away legs. I'm beginning to question whether he's worth all the trouble. His appearances in the US shirt haven't been very impressive.

 

[jonessed]

lots of info in this article with direct quotes from Chandler

That still just seems to boil down to the idea that he likes the US Team, but wants to play for Germany if he can get the chance. I would probably feel the same way if I was in his shoes.

Frankfurt to Tegucigalpa flights probably aren't a lot of fun.If you read between the lines, keeping him as a US squad regular will be a chore even if he pledges his international future here. He's doesn't sound totally committed to the idea and he'll be a likely question mark for mid-season friendlies and away legs. I'm beginning to question whether he's worth all the trouble. His appearances in the US shirt haven't been very impressive.

Yeah, I definitely think the travel requirements presented by the two options factors in to his preference.

 

[Good Posting Judge]

BeIn retweeted some guy who says it just showed up for him on Comcast on Channel 651. I just looked and it's blank and says "TBA." Seems imminent...

 

[NewlyRetired]

Fox International has purchased the tv rights to the Eredivisie ( Dutch first division) for 12 years in a deal worth close to 1 billion Euro's.

The contract will start in the 2013/2014 season and we should see a good amount of games on FSC (or what ever it will be called next fall).

 

[NewlyRetired]

BeIn retweeted some guy who says it just showed up for him on Comcast on Channel 651. I just looked and it's blank and says "TBA." Seems imminent...

I don't have Comcast. Is that the Spanish or English station?

 

[jonessed]

BeIn retweeted some guy who says it just showed up for him on Comcast on Channel 651. I just looked and it's blank and says "TBA." Seems imminent...

I don't have Comcast. Is that the Spanish or English station?

SpanglishQuieres soccer?

 

[NewlyRetired]

Interesting to compare Boyd's story with Chandlers. The writer of the article, ESPN's Jeff Carlisle, said Boyd spoke better English than he did.

When it comes time for a player with dual citizenship to decide which country to represent at international level, the choice is almost always fraught with emotion. Does the player represent the country where he was raised, or does the family's culture hold sway? Is it simply a case of who calls first, or does the player hedge his bets, hoping that his preferred choice eventually comes calling?For U.S. international forward Terrence Boyd, the emotional challenges weren't so much about culture or country, but rather reliving the pain of a broken family, one that never completely heals.Boyd's path to the national team is similar in many ways to other American expatriate soccer players. He was born in the German city of Bremen, to an American serviceman and a German mother. When Boyd was an infant, the family moved to the U.S., settling in the New York City borough of Queens. But the relationship between his parents deteriorated and ended in divorce. Boyd's mother, Karen, returned to Germany with young Terrence in tow, and his father, Anthony, was soon out of his life.Years passed and Boyd's soccer career blossomed, thanks in part to the guidance of his stepfather, Mario Graschulis."I don't think I would have become a pro without him because I am a lazy guy," Boyd said as he sat at the U.S. team hotel before last month's friendly win over Mexico. "I think everything worked out for me. It's funny, because we did so much extra work back in the days. We were running, training. The first time I was in a nightclub was when I was 18. I wasn't allowed to go partying. He was really strict, but he helped me to stay out of the trouble and all the s--- that could do some problems for you. I'm a guy who is trying to get better every day, and that focus, I got it from him."Boyd eventually signed on with the youth team of Hertha Berlin and spent last season with the reserve team of Bundesliga champions Borussia Dortmund. Under the direction of another American expatriate, former U.S. international David Wagner, he developed into an intriguing forward prospect, eventually signing on for this season with Austrian side Rapid Vienna."Terrence is strong in the work with his body," Wagner said via email. "He knows were the goal is, and he is able to fight for the team. He has to work on his combination game, on his technique to have a better first contact. If he works hard in the future, he can step up to the highest European level, like the German Bundesliga, Premier League, or Serie A."But it was in Berlin that Boyd's American adventure began. U.S. U-20 international Bryan Arguez was also part of Hertha's youth system, and in late 2010 he alerted Thomas Rongen, then the head coach of the U-20s, that there were some Americans on Hertha's books whom he should look into recruiting for the squad. Rongen soon invited Boyd to a training camp with the U-20s. There was only one problem: Boyd didn't have a U.S. passport, and acquiring one required getting his father to sign the necessary documentation. As Boyd recalled what he went through to get his passport, there was little ambiguity as to his feelings toward his father."My parents broke up and he didn't care for me, so I don't care for him," he said.Yet Boyd had to seek him out, without even knowing precisely where to look. At Rongen's urging, Boyd turned to social media and located a cousin on Facebook, who got him in touch with his paternal aunt, who agreed to act as a go-between to get the necessary paperwork signed. And while there would be no reunion with his father, the process did allow Boyd the chance to reconnect with some of his American relatives."When I first got the number for my grandmother, she was totally going nuts," Boyd said. "The last time I was in the States was when I was a baby. They were crying, all the old ladies. My grandpa was like, 'It's OK, it's cool.' He doesn't even know what soccer is. But it was very emotional."The papers were signed soon thereafter, and since then Boyd has represented the U.S. at U-20, U-23 and senior level."Boyd was one of the few [recruited] guys who, from day one, it was like a great honor for him -- and I think he's shown that, and always talked about that -- to represent the United States," Rongen said. "I'm sure he went through an emotional hardship to get his passport, but he was so determined."It's a choice that still seems fraught with contradictions. On one hand, Germany never provided Boyd with any international opportunities, which practically made the decision for him. On the other, it seems incongruous that he would choose to suit up for the country of the parent who abandoned him.Yet Boyd has clearly made an emotional bond with the U.S. team. His reaction at failing to qualify for the London Olympics with the U.S. U-23 national team was pure devastation, and he still feels regret at how the qualifying tournament ended, despite his two goals in the group finale against El Salvador."Even if Germany would call now -- and I know they can't -- for me it's like a heart thing," Boyd says."I think we already thought that we were qualified when we started it," he said of the qualifying tournament. "It's so bad, because we have so many talented players in our group. It's just a big disappointment, not only for us, but for U.S. soccer."That upset turned to joy against Mexico, and he celebrated as exuberantly as anyone when the U.S. prevailed last month against El Tri, thanks in part to his backheel that was eventually converted by Michael Orozco-Fiscal."Even if Germany would call now -- and I know they can't -- for me it's like a heart thing," he said. "The U.S. is playing me; I think I have a future here. Why should I not play for the U.S.? It's such a big honor to play for such a big country. For me, it's the best country in the world."And one where his connection, as brief as it has been, runs deep.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

The Swiss Ramble posted another FFP analysis piece yesterday: http://swissramble.blogspot.com/2012/09/uefas-ffp-regulations-play-to-win.html

I'm still working through it, but based on prior experience with this blog I'm confident it will be worthwhile reading for those interested in the topic.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

From Deloitte, the biggest EPL spenders (transfer fees only) over the past 10 years:

1. Chelsea, £673 million — 12 trophies — 3 Premier League titles (2o05, 2006, 2010), 1 Champions League (2012), 4 FA Cups (2007, 2009, 2010, 2012), 2 League Cups (2005, 2007) and 2 Community Shields (2005, 2009). 2. Manchester City, £572 million — 3 trophies — 1 Premier League title (2012), 1 FA Cup (2011) and 1 Community Shield (2012). 3. Liverpool, £414 million — 6 trophies — 1 Champions League (2005), 1 UEFA Super Cup (2005), 1 FA Cup (2006), 2 League Cups (2003, 2012) and 1 Community Shield (2006). 4. Manchester United, £352 million — 16 trophies — 5 Premier League titles (2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011), 1 Champions League (2008), 1 FA Cup (2004), 3 League Cups (2006, 2009, 2010), 5 Community Shields (2003, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011) and 1 FIFA Club World Cup (2008). 5. Tottenham Hotspur, £350 million — 1 trophy — 1 League Cup (2008). 6. Arsenal, £214 million — 4 trophies — 1 Premier League title (2004), 2 FA Cups (2003, 2005) and 1 Community Shield (2004). 7. Aston Villa, £201 million — 0 trophies 8. Sunderland, £187 million — 0 trophies 9. Newcastle United, £174 million — 1 trophy — 1 Intertoto Cup (2006). 10. Everton, £129 million — 0 trophies 11. West Ham United, £123 million — 0 trophies 12. Wigan Athletic, £110 million — 0 trophies 13. Fulham, £107 million — 0 trophies 14. Portsmouth, £100 million — 1 trophy — 1 FA Cup (2008). 15. Birmingham City, £92 million — 1 trophy — 1 League Cup (2011). 16. Blackburn Rovers, £87 million — 0 trophies 17. Stoke City, £84 million — 0 trophies 18. Bolton Wanderers, £76 million — 0 trophies 19. Middlesbrough, £71 million — 1 trophies — 1 League Cup (2004). 20. West Bromwich Albion, £64 million — 0 trophies

 

[NewlyRetired]

The Swiss Ramble posted another FFP analysis piece yesterday: http://swissramble.blogspot.com/2012/09/uefas-ffp-regulations-play-to-win.html

I'm still working through it, but based on prior experience with this blog I'm confident it will be worthwhile reading for those interested in the topic.

This paragraph is almost exactly what happened to the old NASL when everyone tried to keep up with the Cosmos without the revenue to back it up

While Infantino conceded that over-spending “may be sustainable for a single club, it may be considered to have a negative impact on the European club football system as a whole.” He explained, “The problem is that all clubs try to compete. A few of the biggest can afford it, but the vast majority cannot. They bid for players they cannot afford, then borrow or receive money from their owners, but this is not sustainable, because only a few can win.” In other words, the richest clubs drive up players’ salaries and transfer costs, forcing smaller clubs to over-stretch their budgets to compete.

 

[Eephus]

I'd completely forgotten about the Intertoto Cup.

 

[SmoovySmoov]

This thread was at the very bottom of Page 1, on it's way to Page 2.

Carry on.

 

[JaxBill]

Here is a fantastic source for where to find the ton of WCQing games on tv in the week and a half. So many I want to watch but am just going to have to pick and choose.http://www.bigsoccer.com/community/threads/world-cup-qualifying-sept-7-11-2012-tv-info.1974170/

Just wanted to bump this quality link with qualifying starting.

 

[El Floppo]

Andy- sorry for the laziness (busy-ness, really), but can you repost the link to the bars that are showing beIN in NYC?

fwiw- I'll be at a bar somewhere in the EVil or LES watching this, if anybody wants to join.

eta: TIA, andy!

 

[The Z Machine]

The Swiss Ramble posted another FFP analysis piece yesterday: http://swissramble.blogspot.com/2012/09/uefas-ffp-regulations-play-to-win.html

I'm still working through it, but based on prior experience with this blog I'm confident it will be worthwhile reading for those interested in the topic.

Good article, but it was a bit too focused on EPL teams for my taste (what's new...)it should be noted that the revenue structures for other leagues are very different. La liga is a situation where there are 2 haves, and the rest are have nots. The € generated from TV rights for RM and Barça go 100% to them, so the rest of the league is in a world of hurt financially. There needs to be a rebellion in the ranks to overturn the status quo, as FFP won't affect RM or Barça much at all.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Andy- sorry for the laziness (busy-ness, really), but can you repost the link to the bars that are showing beIN in NYC?fwiw- I'll be at a bar somewhere in the EVil or LES watching this, if anybody wants to join.eta: TIA, andy!

Here are three that will be holding viewing parties in NYNew YorkAlbanyWolff's Biergarten 895 Broadway (518) 427-2461BrooklynWoodwork 583 Vanderbilt Avenue (718) 857-5777ManhattanBuddha Beer Bar 4476 Broadway (between 190th & 192nd Street) (646) 861-2595Here is a link to an article about an app to check what bars in general have Direct TV at which you can call to make sure they also have beINhttp://www.sportsgrid.com/media/directvs-sports-bar-finder-app-may-spare-you-the-heartbreak-of-missed-action/

 

[NewlyRetired]

I hear there are a couple of kickball games on today

 

[NewlyRetired]

First results of the day are in and they affect CONCACAF

Both New Zealand and Solomon Islands won their first match of the 3rd round today beating New Caladonia and Tahiti respectively 2-0.

Winner of this 4 team Oceania group has a playoff with the CONCACAF team that comes in 4th in the Hex to get to the WC

 

[The Z Machine]

First results of the day are in and they affect CONCACAFBoth New Zealand and Solomon Islands won their first match of the 3rd round today beating New Caladonia and Tahiti respectively 2-0. Winner of this 4 team Oceania group has a playoff with the CONCACAF team that comes in 4th in the Hex to get to the WC

I don't see how NZL doesn't come out of Oceania every cycle.

 

[NewlyRetired]

First results of the day are in and they affect CONCACAFBoth New Zealand and Solomon Islands won their first match of the 3rd round today beating New Caladonia and Tahiti respectively 2-0. Winner of this 4 team Oceania group has a playoff with the CONCACAF team that comes in 4th in the Hex to get to the WC

I don't see how NZL doesn't come out of Oceania every cycle.

agreed. But they still need to play the games I guess. Most feel that US and Mexico should always come out of CONCACAF too but that does not make things any less nerve racking to be a fan of theirs (remember that Mexico was close to not even qualifying for the Hex last cycle).

 

[El Floppo]

First results of the day are in and they affect CONCACAF

Both New Zealand and Solomon Islands won their first match of the 3rd round today beating New Caladonia and Tahiti respectively 2-0.

Winner of this 4 team Oceania group has a playoff with the CONCACAF team that comes in 4th in the Hex to get to the WC

I don't see how NZL doesn't come out of Oceania every cycle.

agreed. But they still need to play the games I guess. Most feel that US and Mexico should always come out of CONCACAF too but that does not make things any less nerve racking to be a fan of theirs (remember that Mexico was close to not even qualifying for the Hex last cycle).

If somehow the US ends up in that 4th spot (which isn't impossible, given the rise in quality of a few of the other countries in the region) and ends up playing NZL and losing, than #### the USMNT- they clearly won't deserve to go to the WC.Great playoff matchup for the region, btw. Much better than having to gut it out against frigging Uruguay.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Got to jump in the shower and get ready for game #1

12:00pm Kazakhstan v Rep.Ireland GOL-TV

Hope I can find my Kazakhstan scarf in my closet!!!!

Will this be the game that Robbie Keane disintegrates like a piece of toast crumbled in your hand? Inquiring minds want to know...........

 

[El Floppo]

Andy- sorry for the laziness (busy-ness, really), but can you repost the link to the bars that are showing beIN in NYC?fwiw- I'll be at a bar somewhere in the EVil or LES watching this, if anybody wants to join.eta: TIA, andy!

Here are three that will be holding viewing parties in NYNew YorkAlbanyWolff's Biergarten 895 Broadway (518) 427-2461BrooklynWoodwork 583 Vanderbilt Avenue (718) 857-5777ManhattanBuddha Beer Bar 4476 Broadway (between 190th & 192nd Street) (646) 861-2595Here is a link to an article about an app to check what bars in general have Direct TV at which you can call to make sure they also have beINhttp://www.sportsgrid.com/media/directvs-sports-bar-finder-app-may-spare-you-the-heartbreak-of-missed-action/

eta: wait a sec... you're not saying that only one bar in Manhattan is showing the game, right? those are just listed bars that are having "parties"? I should use the app to find Direct TV bars... right?

 

[NewlyRetired]

First results of the day are in and they affect CONCACAF

Both New Zealand and Solomon Islands won their first match of the 3rd round today beating New Caladonia and Tahiti respectively 2-0.

Winner of this 4 team Oceania group has a playoff with the CONCACAF team that comes in 4th in the Hex to get to the WC

I don't see how NZL doesn't come out of Oceania every cycle.

agreed. But they still need to play the games I guess. Most feel that US and Mexico should always come out of CONCACAF too but that does not make things any less nerve racking to be a fan of theirs (remember that Mexico was close to not even qualifying for the Hex last cycle).

If somehow the US ends up in that 4th spot (which isn't impossible, given the rise in quality of a few of the other countries in the region) and ends up playing NZL and losing, than #### the USMNT- they clearly won't deserve to go to the WC.Great playoff matchup for the region, btw. Much better than having to gut it out against frigging Uruguay.

I have no idea how FIFA comes up with these playoffs but it appears to be rotating.In 2006 it was a playoff against Asia (T&T beat Bahrain to reach WC)

In 2010 it was a playoff against South America (and the eventual WC semi finalists of Uruguay)

In 2014 it will be against Oceania (highly likely to be New Zealand)

 

[Sebowski]

Andy- sorry for the laziness (busy-ness, really), but can you repost the link to the bars that are showing beIN in NYC?fwiw- I'll be at a bar somewhere in the EVil or LES watching this, if anybody wants to join.eta: TIA, andy!

Here are three that will be holding viewing parties in NYNew YorkAlbanyWolff's Biergarten 895 Broadway (518) 427-2461BrooklynWoodwork 583 Vanderbilt Avenue (718) 857-5777ManhattanBuddha Beer Bar 4476 Broadway (between 190th & 192nd Street) (646) 861-2595Here is a link to an article about an app to check what bars in general have Direct TV at which you can call to make sure they also have beINhttp://www.sportsgrid.com/media/directvs-sports-bar-finder-app-may-spare-you-the-heartbreak-of-missed-action/

eta: wait a sec... you're not saying that only one bar in Manhattan is showing the game, right? those are just listed bars that are having "parties"? I should use the app to find Direct TV bars... right?

Yeah. Any bar with Direct TV should have it. I think it is part of the basic sports pack, and most bars have that. I get the channel where I work and have a pretty basic package. It is listed on the guide twice though and I only get one of them (620?).

 

[The Z Machine]

Just walk along the block in EVL and you'll find one that's showing the game, I'm sure.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Andy- sorry for the laziness (busy-ness, really), but can you repost the link to the bars that are showing beIN in NYC?fwiw- I'll be at a bar somewhere in the EVil or LES watching this, if anybody wants to join.eta: TIA, andy!

Here are three that will be holding viewing parties in NYNew YorkAlbanyWolff's Biergarten 895 Broadway (518) 427-2461BrooklynWoodwork 583 Vanderbilt Avenue (718) 857-5777ManhattanBuddha Beer Bar 4476 Broadway (between 190th & 192nd Street) (646) 861-2595Here is a link to an article about an app to check what bars in general have Direct TV at which you can call to make sure they also have beINhttp://www.sportsgrid.com/media/directvs-sports-bar-finder-app-may-spare-you-the-heartbreak-of-missed-action/

eta: wait a sec... you're not saying that only one bar in Manhattan is showing the game, right? those are just listed bars that are having "parties"? I should use the app to find Direct TV bars... right?

Yes that is correct, Use the app.Or just call any bar near you. Most bars have Direct TV and 95% of those will also have beIN even if they don't know it yet. It is channel 620 if you need to ask them specifics.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Looks like Dempsey has shown well in practice this week.

Whether this means starting and going 60 minutes or subbing and going 30 minutes we won't know until 7:00pm tonight.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Artificial surface here at the new stadium in Kazakhstan. Keane still with the arm band for Ireland.

 

[El Floppo]

Thanks guys- I used the app and of course there are a million bars.

Anybody around for a cornholio?

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

beIN just showed up on COMCAST in suburban DC. Channel 583 here.

May be worth checking for other COMCAST subscribers. Possibly not just a local addition.

 

[Sebowski]

Dempsey article

My link

Here's the meat of what is really just a fluff piece.

"It's an opportunity for me to play three more years guaranteed at such a high level and gives you an opportunity to see where you are and if you can make it," says Dempsey, who had the best European season ever by an American in 2011-12, scoring 23 goals in all competitions for Fulham. "For me, it's always been about being able to look myself in the mirror and say, 'You tried your best. You challenged yourself. And you'll be able to die a happy man in the sense of your career, knowing that you were able to see if you could do it or not.'"

Dempsey won. He made a step up to Tottenham, a team that finished fourth in the Premier League last season and is a contender to qualify for next year's Champions League. What's more, he was able to stay in London, though his family will change houses to be closer to the Spurs practice facility and the international school his daughter attends.

And now he can get to focus entirely on soccer again. Dempsey may not start for the U.S. in its World Cup qualifier against Jamaica here on Friday (8 p.m. ET, beIN Sport), not least because he hasn't played a game in nearly three months, but he has been preparing himself as though he could start. "I don't know what my chances are, but I've been working hard," he says. Upon arriving at the U.S. camp in Miami this week, Dempsey was given a VO2 test, wearing a mask and running on a treadmill, and he says U.S. trainers were satisfied with his base-level fitness.

In addition to helping the U.S. as it tries to put a stranglehold on semifinal-round qualifying for World Cup 2014, Dempsey knows that two high-level games and training in hot and humid conditions will help him hit the ground running when he returns to Spurs next week.

Will Dempsey be an immediate starter at Tottenham, or might it take a while? "That's a good question," he says. "You don't know. That's the gamble you take when you make a move to a new team. You don't know where you're going to fit in exactly, you don't know how you're going to gel. The great thing for me is being able to be back in a team environment and be able to work on match fitness."

Dempsey is a hybrid attacking player. In his first conversation with Spurs manager André Villas-Boas, he said he'd be comfortable in any position where he can get the ball on the half-turn and run at defenders. "I'm not someone who really enjoys playing with my back to the goal, like a traditional target striker," he says. "I like either being a withdrawn forward or someone who plays on the left or the right. I'm also not a traditional winger. I'm someone who kind of comes inside and tries to get in those pockets and do a lot of link-up play. You don't really see me taking a player on on the outside and getting a lot of crosses in. That's never really been my style, though it doesn't mean I can't work on those things.

"It'll be interesting to see where I'll fit in, because I don't know what his plans are in that sense. I have to show him where I'm at, obviously, and he'll see what the best fit will be. Any position that I can get into the attack and get goals is what I enjoy. I think a strength of mine is late runs into the box and being able to get on the end of things. We'll just have to wait and see."

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/grant_wahl/09/06/clint-dempsey-tottenham-usa-jamaica/index.html#ixzz25nkuuYhf

 

[CBusAlex]

I have no idea how FIFA comes up with these playoffs but it appears to be rotating.In 2006 it was a playoff against Asia (T&T beat Bahrain to reach WC)In 2010 it was a playoff against South America (and the eventual WC semi finalists of Uruguay)In 2014 it will be against Oceania (highly likely to be New Zealand)

Not sure about the previous years, but it was a random draw this year.

 

[JaxBill]

Artificial surface here at the new stadium in Kazakhstan. Keane still with the arm band for Ireland.

No HD for this matchDidn't realize Shay Given had retired from international play until I saw Westwood was in there.

 

[JaxBill]

Stephen Ouderkirk ‏@ouderwienO'dea had to travel across ten time zones and Keane had to travle across thirteen for this match #mls #wcq

 

[NewlyRetired]

Stephen Ouderkirk ‏@ouderwienO'dea had to travel across ten time zones and Keane had to travle across thirteen for this match #mls #wcq

Keane must have had to go to camp in Europe as it may have been shorter for him to fly over the Pacific.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I have no idea how FIFA comes up with these playoffs but it appears to be rotating.In 2006 it was a playoff against Asia (T&T beat Bahrain to reach WC)In 2010 it was a playoff against South America (and the eventual WC semi finalists of Uruguay)In 2014 it will be against Oceania (highly likely to be New Zealand)

Not sure about the previous years, but it was a random draw this year.

Thanks. Good draw for Concacaf then

 

[The Gator]

beIN just showed up on COMCAST in suburban DC. Channel 583 here.

bump for Floppo

 

[NewlyRetired]

beIN just showed up on COMCAST in suburban DC. Channel 583 here.

bump for Floppo

Floppo has TWC not Comcast.

 

[El Floppo]

beIN just showed up on COMCAST in suburban DC. Channel 583 here.

bump for Floppo

 

[NewlyRetired]

Yikes. I am almost glad this did not go through. Not sure they would have seen any real return on such a huge investment.

Avi Creditor (@AviCreditor)

9/7/12 12:34 PM

Speaking at Bloomberg Sports Business Summit yesterday, MLS commissioner Don Garber says MLS offered Drogba more than $10 million/year. Wow.