<< <i>9 games, 4 months for Suarez...seems about right. >>
Should you choose to become a card-carrying member of the Scouser Nation you can take heart in the fact that Suarez has almost certainly played his last game while wearing the liverbird crest.
Belgium is going to be tough for USA to handle. They played Germany pretty aggressive when they could get the ball, but I don't think the Belgians are going to be as light on the gas pedal. If they do get through Argentina will be another tough one with Messi on a bit of a heater, I don't see the Swiss beating them but you never know.
That suspension seemed about right. Something is wrong with that dude, definitely.
<< <i>I am worried about the game, Belgium could win it all. We cannot let them score in the first 30 minutes. >>
Belgium has no fullbacks, and Lukaku has looked off the pace. In fact, the entire team has looked off the pace. While there's no doubt but that Belgium is the better team, if the US can get Yedlin/Johnson consistently overlapping on the right they are going to give Belgium a lot of trouble.
Germany vs. Algeria will be a spectacle for sure................
West Germany versus Austria was a controversial 1982 FIFA World Cup game played at the El Molinón stadium, Gijón, Spain, on 25 June 1982. In German, it is known as Nichtangriffspakt von Gijón (lit. "Non-aggression pact of Gijón") or Schande von Gijón (lit. "Disgrace of Gijón")
The match was the last game of the first-round Group 2, with Algeria and Chile having played the day before. With the outcome of that match already decided, a win by one or two goals for West Germany would result in both them and Austria qualifying at the expense of Algeria, which had beaten West Germany in the first game. After 10 minutes, West Germany took the lead. Thereafter, neither team scored, and few scoring chances were created.
Having watched that game back in 1982 on ABC television, I can attest to the fact that West Germany did absolutely no attacking whatsoever after the score was 1-0. They basically called off the dogs to make sure Austria could get through and Algeria (who beat them) could go home.
Many Algerian soccer fans will be looking for revenge next week, but I'm wishing for a win for Germany. One of the best Germany games I ever saw them play in the World Cup was when they beat Saudi Arabia in 2002 by the score of 8-0. Hopefully that can happen again next week.
<< <i>Germany vs. Algeria will be a spectacle for sure................
West Germany versus Austria was a controversial 1982 FIFA World Cup game played at the El Molinón stadium, Gijón, Spain, on 25 June 1982. In German, it is known as Nichtangriffspakt von Gijón (lit. "Non-aggression pact of Gijón") or Schande von Gijón (lit. "Disgrace of Gijón")
The match was the last game of the first-round Group 2, with Algeria and Chile having played the day before. With the outcome of that match already decided, a win by one or two goals for West Germany would result in both them and Austria qualifying at the expense of Algeria, which had beaten West Germany in the first game. After 10 minutes, West Germany took the lead. Thereafter, neither team scored, and few scoring chances were created.
Having watched that game back in 1982 on ABC television, I can attest to the fact that West Germany did absolutely no attacking whatsoever after the score was 1-0. They basically called off the dogs to make sure Austria could get through and Algeria (who beat them) could go home.
Many Algerian soccer fans will be looking for revenge next week, but I'm wishing for a win for Germany. One of the best Germany games I ever saw them play in the World Cup was when they beat Saudi Arabia in 2002 by the score of 8-0. Hopefully that can happen again next week. >>
Tremendous stuff in yesterday's games. Drama and individual excellence can sometimes be a welcome sight in lieu of perfect looking soccer.
Brazil outlasted Chile. I can't stand penalty kicks. Rant for another time. Too many good things going on to get wrapped up in the bad.
Like much of the rest of the world, I saw the name James Rodriguez and thought only of the youngster I would go after in the transfer window in my soccer video games. Now I can actually put a face to the pixelated skillset, I even know his first names is pronounced "Ha-mess", and I am buying all the stock in the world. The types of plays he is making are not normal at all, for those that don't watch the sport regularly. And he's doing it EVERY GAME. TO call this tournament a coming out party is an understatement. I expect Arsenal or ManU to sign him to a massive transfer deal sometime in the next two years, where I will be conflicted about rooting for him.
<< <i>The types of plays he is making are not normal at all, for those that don't watch the sport regularly. >>
Hey, that's me! I never watch soccer but he stands out to these untrained eyes.
How 'bout the Chile rocket ball that hit the crossbar towards the end of overtime. >>
I took Chile at 40:1 before the tournament to win it all. I think I probably turned half of my neighborhood's ears red when Pinilla's shot hit the woodwork.
Quotes from Mexico's coach after the game against Holland................
"Today it was the man with the whistle who eliminated us from the World Cup,'' Herrera said.
"If a referee invents a penalty, you're out of the World Cup,'' Herrera added. "I hope they have a look at what happened and that this gentleman goes home just like we are.''
Herrera said Robben dove three times and blamed the referee for not reacting.
"If the referee is fair then their second goal doesn't exist and Robben would have been expelled or suspended with a second yellow card," he said.
<< <i>Costa Rica held up man down defense like a boss. >>
I was pulling for Greece, but Alexi Lalas was correct in his post-game analysis. The Greeks showed no creativity when they pushed the ball deep. They did well getting to that point, then did nothing. Too late to pass, didn't push the ball along the sidelines deep when they could have, etc. Oh well, both teams were essentially playing the role of Cinderalla. Costa Rica gets to keep wearing the glass "boot" .
The win wasn't pretty, but I'll take it for the Germans. Adjustments should be made, but Algeria was playing them very fiesty and it was obviously getting to the Germans a bit - more turnovers/bad passes than I can remember seeing from them in a LONG time.
We'll see what happens with the US today. Belgium is going to be tough, US is going to have to get on top early I think to have a chance.
Argentina/Switz might be a solid toss up game, although I'm thinking the Swiss might be overmatched a tad.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
The US played the one card they had, which was to run Yedlin/Johnson down the right and hope for the best. Sadly, it wasn't enough-- but I think the foundation is there for a strong team in 2018.
Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal.
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal. >>
Thanks for the input. The concept of relegation would be quite interesting if applied to sports in the U.S! LOL!
So, essentially, what you're saying is that teams on the European top circuit consist of exceptional players from any country whereas the World Cup teams must draw their talent from the national pool? Is that the reason for the disparity in skill level?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal. >>
Thanks for the input. The concept of relegation would be quite interesting if applied to sports in the U.S! LOL!
So, essentially, what you're saying is that teams on the European top circuit consist of exceptional players from any country whereas the World Cup teams must draw their talent from the national pool? Is that the reason for the disparity in skill level? >>
Exactly- the elite club teams in Europe can pull in players from all over the place. Most of these top teams have maybe one (at most two) cavities in their starting XI, but that's the extent of it-- and the real top teams, like Bayern, don't have a single player in the squad who wouldn't be a difference maker on any of the teams still left in the World Cup.
I love international soccer (World Cup, Euro, Copa America, etc.), but even the best international teams will usually have four or five cavities. A great example is Argentina; they're I think the third favorites to win the World Cup, but they have a dodgy keeper in Romero, mediocre centre-backs, and no creative midfielders (unless you count Messi as a mid, which would seem a stretch). Even with their attacking talent a team like that would probably finish fifth or so in the Premier League. International tournaments are a blast, in large part because they don't come with the nastiness that so often occasions clashes between rival club teams, but I don't think there's any doubt but that the finest soccer on Earth is played by the club teams in Europe.
The US game was tough. Seeing one or 2 strikers trying to get breakaway opps going with absolutely zero backfield support for offense was horrible. Needed to press with 4 or 5 to even have a chance.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually.
<< <i>The US game was tough. Seeing one or 2 strikers trying to get breakaway opps going with absolutely zero backfield support for offense was horrible. Needed to press with 4 or 5 to even have a chance.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually. >>
We had a chance to steal the game at the end of regulation. Two of our own guys in front of the net with just the goalie, and we don't even get a shot on goal. We sail it over the bar. That was a huge let down. Could of stole one there.
<< <i>The US game was tough. Seeing one or 2 strikers trying to get breakaway opps going with absolutely zero backfield support for offense was horrible. Needed to press with 4 or 5 to even have a chance.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually. >>
We had a chance to steal the game at the end of regulation. Two of our own guys in front of the net with just the goalie, and we don't even get a shot on goal. We sail it over the bar. That was a huge let down. Could of stole one there. >>
Yeah that was just sad, we couldn't even pull the trigger.
I think most soccer purists are THRILLED with the final four.
Can you imagine a Brazil-Argentina final ? (However, won't be the same without Neymar)
Can you imagine a repeat of 1974 with Holland - Germany, and perhaps Holland finally breaking the curse ?
Can you imagine a repeat of 1978 where Holland gets another chance at Argentina in South America ?
Can you imagine another Argentina - Germany final ? We've already had two of them, with the World Cup final series at 1-1 between them.
It is going to be two incredible days of soccer for the purists. South America has the advantage because they are playing on their continent, but Europe has to be thrilled with the unfortunate injuries and suspensions.
I guess I'm rooting for Germany because I feel they're the better squad than Brazil. The Argentina - Holland game is a toss up. I want to see who has a bigger impact in this game, Messi or Robben.
I'm pulling for Argentina to win it all, although really as long as Brazil doesn't win, I'll be content. If the Netherlands won, it would be painful watching Robben clutching the trophy, but I'd be happy for RVP and Sneijder.
What a glorious game. Brazil proved themselves to be the soft team a lot of folks thought they were.
Hallmark - I imagine the line will be skewed too far toward Germany in the final...you should be able to get a good price on whoever emerges from the game tomorrow.
The second semi-final might have been the most boring game of the tournament. Perhaps it was because both sides were extremely well-organized, but it felt as if the Netherlands had no interest attacking for the large majority of the game. IMO, they got what they deserved.
The final feels like another 1-0 game, one way or the other, hopefully to Argentina.
The final feels like another 1-0 game, one way or the other, hopefully to Argentina. >>
We'll most likely see a game like the Germany-Portugal game I feel. Germany not only got an extra days rest, but Argentina went into extra time.
Feels like that hot summer world cup when Germany and France went to extra time and penalties, and then the Germans had no legs against the Italians and lost 3-1 in the final.
No way Argentina has even the slightest chance of winning this game. Argentina's defense has a great chance of getting ripped to shreds. Not like Brazil's horrible D, but just the same. Their D has no world class d-men in my book.
Forgot to add that the Germans know very well how tired Argentina are. They've played two consecutive extra time games (Swiss-Holland), and the Germans will be attacking for the full 90 IMO. Score at halftime could be 1-1, but the 2nd half we will see capitulation by Argentina. Their bodies will just not having anything left in the tank.
Edmund - all good points...but you might be falling into the same trap that the betting public is, by putting too much stock into the 7-1 rout of a Brazil team that was mentally weak and basically gave up once down 2-0. Also, don't forget Pepe went off in that Portugal game when it was only 2-0, so that game might not have been the blowout it turned into.
Look, Germany is a heavy favorite for obvious reasons, and probably should win the game. But I won't be shocked if Argentina pulls it out. While they might not have standout individual D-men, they have been very well organized lately, their goalie is playing with a lot of confidence, and they have the best player on the field. It's unfortunate that DiMaria is banged up, because he could be a difference maker.
<< <i>Edmund - all good points...but you might be falling into the same trap that the betting public is, by putting too much stock into the 7-1 rout of a Brazil team that was mentally weak and basically gave up once down 2-0. Also, don't forget Pepe went off in that Portugal game when it was only 2-0, so that game might not have been the blowout it turned into.
Look, Germany is a heavy favorite for obvious reasons, and probably should win the game. But I won't be shocked if Argentina pulls it out. While they might not have standout individual D-men, they have been very well organized lately, their goalie is playing with a lot of confidence, and they have the best player on the field. It's unfortunate that DiMaria is banged up, because he could be a difference maker. >>
I don't think I'd call Germany a heavy favorite; Pinnacle has the 1x2 at Germany +139/ Argentina +246 (the draw is +215).
I hate to say it, but I think the final's going to be pretty dull. I doubt either team is going to push up too high and expose themselves to a counter, so I think we'll see a lot of sideways passing.
<< <i>Edmund - all good points...but you might be falling into the same trap that the betting public is, by putting too much stock into the 7-1 rout of a Brazil team that was mentally weak. >>
I'm actually putting my stock in an Argentina team that has played two consecutive overtime games, and a Germany team that has an extra days rest. Combine that with an Argentine defense that will be attacked all day long by a German team that knows it's going against tired legs, and you have a recipe for disaster with Argentina.
I'm not a betting man, but if I was, I'd take 3-1 odds on this game easily.
Edited to add that anyone who thinks we're going to see the same kind of game like Holland-Argentina just doesn't understand this German team or German soccer tradition. Germany has become the first team ever to make 4 consecutive semifinals in the World Cup, and they can become the first team in the world to ever win a World Cup on foreign soil (i.e. European team winning in South America vs. South American team winning in Europe). The German soccer federation will hang the German coach if they don't see an all out attack Sunday against a tired Argentina team with an average defense at best. Jurgen Klinsmann is on the phone right now telling Loew to keep the attack up all game long, and Argentina will collapse in the 2nd half.
Could you imagine being in a room with Klinsmann, Beckenbauer, Breitner, Gerd Mueller, and Ballack and see the expressions on their face if Germany were playing a sideways game all game long ? I think you'd hear every German curse word in the book if that happened.
Mark my words, Germany will be in an all out, ruthless attack mode in the 2nd half on Sunday.
One more thing that haunts Argentina in this game. Khedira is having a great tournament. He's fit, energetic, and playing very well. He gets the assignment of covering Messi when Real Madrid plays Barcelona. He knows Messi very well. With Khedira fit once again, Messi may see very little of the ball Sunday. When Messi does get the ball, he will have to contend with a faster Khedira. Tactically Argentina is in a huge mess this Sunday. More of a tactical mess then they were against Iran (1-0), Swiss (1-0) and Holland (1-0). Argentina's defense has huge headaches this Sunday.
Comments
<< <i>9 games, 4 months for Suarez...seems about right. >>
Should you choose to become a card-carrying member of the Scouser Nation you can take heart in the fact that Suarez has almost certainly played his last game while wearing the liverbird crest.
<< <i>9 games, 4 months for Suarez...seems about right. >>
Maradona doesn't agree with you
That suspension seemed about right. Something is wrong with that dude, definitely.
Go Germany!
<< <i>I am worried about the game, Belgium could win it all. We cannot let them score in the first 30 minutes. >>
Belgium has no fullbacks, and Lukaku has looked off the pace. In fact, the entire team has looked off the pace. While there's no doubt but that Belgium is the better team, if the US can get Yedlin/Johnson consistently overlapping on the right they are going to give Belgium a lot of trouble.
<< <i>I am worried about the game, Belgium could win it all. . >>
I'll eat my hat if Belguim wins it all.
West Germany versus Austria was a controversial 1982 FIFA World Cup game played at the El Molinón stadium, Gijón, Spain, on 25 June 1982. In German, it is known as Nichtangriffspakt von Gijón (lit. "Non-aggression pact of Gijón") or Schande von Gijón (lit. "Disgrace of Gijón")
The match was the last game of the first-round Group 2, with Algeria and Chile having played the day before. With the outcome of that match already decided, a win by one or two goals for West Germany would result in both them and Austria qualifying at the expense of Algeria, which had beaten West Germany in the first game. After 10 minutes, West Germany took the lead. Thereafter, neither team scored, and few scoring chances were created.
Having watched that game back in 1982 on ABC television, I can attest to the fact that West Germany did absolutely no attacking whatsoever after the score was 1-0. They basically called off the dogs to make sure Austria could get through and Algeria (who beat them) could go home.
Many Algerian soccer fans will be looking for revenge next week, but I'm wishing for a win for Germany. One of the best Germany games
I ever saw them play in the World Cup was when they beat Saudi Arabia in 2002 by the score of 8-0. Hopefully that can happen again
next week.
<< <i>Germany vs. Algeria will be a spectacle for sure................
West Germany versus Austria was a controversial 1982 FIFA World Cup game played at the El Molinón stadium, Gijón, Spain, on 25 June 1982. In German, it is known as Nichtangriffspakt von Gijón (lit. "Non-aggression pact of Gijón") or Schande von Gijón (lit. "Disgrace of Gijón")
The match was the last game of the first-round Group 2, with Algeria and Chile having played the day before. With the outcome of that match already decided, a win by one or two goals for West Germany would result in both them and Austria qualifying at the expense of Algeria, which had beaten West Germany in the first game. After 10 minutes, West Germany took the lead. Thereafter, neither team scored, and few scoring chances were created.
Having watched that game back in 1982 on ABC television, I can attest to the fact that West Germany did absolutely no attacking whatsoever after the score was 1-0. They basically called off the dogs to make sure Austria could get through and Algeria (who beat them) could go home.
Many Algerian soccer fans will be looking for revenge next week, but I'm wishing for a win for Germany. One of the best Germany games
I ever saw them play in the World Cup was when they beat Saudi Arabia in 2002 by the score of 8-0. Hopefully that can happen again
next week. >>
I remember that 2002 game, what a feast!!!
Brazil outlasted Chile. I can't stand penalty kicks. Rant for another time. Too many good things going on to get wrapped up in the bad.
Like much of the rest of the world, I saw the name James Rodriguez and thought only of the youngster I would go after in the transfer window in my soccer video games. Now I can actually put a face to the pixelated skillset, I even know his first names is pronounced "Ha-mess", and I am buying all the stock in the world. The types of plays he is making are not normal at all, for those that don't watch the sport regularly. And he's doing it EVERY GAME. TO call this tournament a coming out party is an understatement. I expect Arsenal or ManU to sign him to a massive transfer deal sometime in the next two years, where I will be conflicted about rooting for him.
<< <i>The types of plays he is making are not normal at all, for those that don't watch the sport regularly. >>
Hey, that's me!
I never watch soccer but he stands out to these untrained eyes.
How 'bout the Chile rocket ball that hit the crossbar towards the end of overtime.
"If I say something in the woods and my wife isn't there to hear it.....am I still wrong?"
My Washington Quarter Registry set...in progress
<< <i>
<< <i>The types of plays he is making are not normal at all, for those that don't watch the sport regularly. >>
Hey, that's me!
I never watch soccer but he stands out to these untrained eyes.
How 'bout the Chile rocket ball that hit the crossbar towards the end of overtime.
I took Chile at 40:1 before the tournament to win it all. I think I probably turned half of my neighborhood's ears red when Pinilla's shot hit the woodwork.
"Today it was the man with the whistle who eliminated us from the World Cup,'' Herrera said.
"If a referee invents a penalty, you're out of the World Cup,'' Herrera added. "I hope they have a look at what happened and that this gentleman goes home just like we are.''
Herrera said Robben dove three times and blamed the referee for not reacting.
"If the referee is fair then their second goal doesn't exist and Robben would have been expelled or suspended with a second yellow card," he said.
<< <i>Costa Rica held up man down defense like a boss. >>
I was pulling for Greece, but Alexi Lalas was correct in his post-game analysis. The Greeks showed no creativity when they pushed the ball deep. They did well getting to that point, then did nothing. Too late to pass, didn't push the ball along the sidelines deep when they could have, etc. Oh well, both teams were essentially playing the role of Cinderalla. Costa Rica gets to keep wearing the glass "boot"
Put Lahm back at right D.
Play a 4-4-2 with Muller and Klose up front.
Fill the midfield with Kroos, Khadira, Schweinsteiger and Ozil (or someone else in Ozil's spot).
Their keeper was fantastic today.
We'll see what happens with the US today. Belgium is going to be tough, US is going to have to get on top early I think to have a chance.
Argentina/Switz might be a solid toss up game, although I'm thinking the Swiss might be overmatched a tad.
Go Germany!
Let's see what happens in OT.
<< <i>Had a chance to win it there at the end.
Let's see what happens in OT. >>
The wheels fell off.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
On the other hand, we could have won.
Strange, good game.
"If I say something in the woods and my wife isn't there to hear it.....am I still wrong?"
My Washington Quarter Registry set...in progress
This entire World Cup has been entertaining with lots of drama and suspense.
Best I've ever seen.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal.
<< <i>
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal. >>
Thanks for the input. The concept of relegation would be quite interesting if applied to sports in the U.S! LOL!
So, essentially, what you're saying is that teams on the European top circuit consist of exceptional players from any country whereas the World Cup teams must draw their talent from the national pool? Is that the reason for the disparity in skill level?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Valiant effort, to be sure. The U.S. team just broke down at the end, both physically and mentally. Great effort, though, and putting up a goal was nice if for naught.
Have to say, I have enjoyed watching soccer in this tournament. Guy, is this level of play consistent throughout the European leagues? I'm assuming it is somewhat lower on the U.S. circuit, though? >>
Hi Tim,
In general, the level of play of the elite teams in the top four leagues in Europe (the EPL. La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga) is considerably better than anything you'll see at the World Cup. If you put one of these international teams up against, say, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, you would feel comfortable backing the latter as heavy chalk.
Re: the MLS, your intuition is correct-- the soccer in MLS is pretty poor. This is (I think) due to a number of factors, though the most overlooked IMO is that with the playoff system in place and no promotion/relegation it's tempting for the players to go at 70-80% speed, since it's very rare that any one particular regular season game matters all that much. In Europe, by contrast, every regular season game (or just about every one- there are a few exceptions) matters a great deal. >>
Thanks for the input. The concept of relegation would be quite interesting if applied to sports in the U.S! LOL!
So, essentially, what you're saying is that teams on the European top circuit consist of exceptional players from any country whereas the World Cup teams must draw their talent from the national pool? Is that the reason for the disparity in skill level? >>
Exactly- the elite club teams in Europe can pull in players from all over the place. Most of these top teams have maybe one (at most two) cavities in their starting XI, but that's the extent of it-- and the real top teams, like Bayern, don't have a single player in the squad who wouldn't be a difference maker on any of the teams still left in the World Cup.
I love international soccer (World Cup, Euro, Copa America, etc.), but even the best international teams will usually have four or five cavities. A great example is Argentina; they're I think the third favorites to win the World Cup, but they have a dodgy keeper in Romero, mediocre centre-backs, and no creative midfielders (unless you count Messi as a mid, which would seem a stretch). Even with their attacking talent a team like that would probably finish fifth or so in the Premier League. International tournaments are a blast, in large part because they don't come with the nastiness that so often occasions clashes between rival club teams, but I don't think there's any doubt but that the finest soccer on Earth is played by the club teams in Europe.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually.
<< <i>The US game was tough. Seeing one or 2 strikers trying to get breakaway opps going with absolutely zero backfield support for offense was horrible. Needed to press with 4 or 5 to even have a chance.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually. >>
We had a chance to steal the game at the end of regulation. Two of our own guys in front of the net with just the goalie, and we don't
even get a shot on goal. We sail it over the bar. That was a huge let down. Could of stole one there.
<< <i>
<< <i>The US game was tough. Seeing one or 2 strikers trying to get breakaway opps going with absolutely zero backfield support for offense was horrible. Needed to press with 4 or 5 to even have a chance.
Howard was great but with that many shots you knew 1 or 2 were going to go in eventually. >>
We had a chance to steal the game at the end of regulation. Two of our own guys in front of the net with just the goalie, and we don't
even get a shot on goal. We sail it over the bar. That was a huge let down. Could of stole one there. >>
Yeah that was just sad, we couldn't even pull the trigger.
"If I say something in the woods and my wife isn't there to hear it.....am I still wrong?"
My Washington Quarter Registry set...in progress
All is right in the soccer universe.
Perhaps we can get Argentina vs. Holland after tomorrow.
It would be a fitting end to a fantastic world cup.
I'm hoping Germany handles Brazil with them down 2 star players and advances on to play Argentina. But we'll see.
Go Germany!
Can you imagine a Brazil-Argentina final ? (However, won't be the same without Neymar)
Can you imagine a repeat of 1974 with Holland - Germany, and perhaps Holland finally breaking the curse ?
Can you imagine a repeat of 1978 where Holland gets another chance at Argentina in South America ?
Can you imagine another Argentina - Germany final ? We've already had two of them, with the World Cup final series at 1-1 between them.
It is going to be two incredible days of soccer for the purists. South America has the advantage because they are playing on their continent, but Europe has to be thrilled with the unfortunate injuries and suspensions.
I guess I'm rooting for Germany because I feel they're the better squad than Brazil.
The Argentina - Holland game is a toss up. I want to see who has a bigger impact in this game, Messi or Robben.
"If I say something in the woods and my wife isn't there to hear it.....am I still wrong?"
My Washington Quarter Registry set...in progress
Very painful day for the home team.
What a glorious game. Brazil proved themselves to be the soft team a lot of folks thought they were.
Hallmark - I imagine the line will be skewed too far toward Germany in the final...you should be able to get a good price on whoever emerges from the game tomorrow.
After the 3rd goal I tried to take a quick bathroom break and missed a goal. Thought I was hearing a replay but nope.
We'll see what happens today. I imagine the game will be a tad closer than yesterday though.
The final feels like another 1-0 game, one way or the other, hopefully to Argentina.
<< <i>
The final feels like another 1-0 game, one way or the other, hopefully to Argentina. >>
We'll most likely see a game like the Germany-Portugal game I feel.
Germany not only got an extra days rest, but Argentina went into extra time.
Feels like that hot summer world cup when Germany and France went to extra time and penalties, and then the Germans
had no legs against the Italians and lost 3-1 in the final.
No way Argentina has even the slightest chance of winning this game. Argentina's defense has a great chance of getting ripped to shreds.
Not like Brazil's horrible D, but just the same. Their D has no world class d-men in my book.
and the Germans will be attacking for the full 90 IMO. Score at halftime could be 1-1, but the 2nd half we will see capitulation by Argentina.
Their bodies will just not having anything left in the tank.
Look, Germany is a heavy favorite for obvious reasons, and probably should win the game. But I won't be shocked if Argentina pulls it out. While they might not have standout individual D-men, they have been very well organized lately, their goalie is playing with a lot of confidence, and they have the best player on the field. It's unfortunate that DiMaria is banged up, because he could be a difference maker.
<< <i>Edmund - all good points...but you might be falling into the same trap that the betting public is, by putting too much stock into the 7-1 rout of a Brazil team that was mentally weak and basically gave up once down 2-0. Also, don't forget Pepe went off in that Portugal game when it was only 2-0, so that game might not have been the blowout it turned into.
Look, Germany is a heavy favorite for obvious reasons, and probably should win the game. But I won't be shocked if Argentina pulls it out. While they might not have standout individual D-men, they have been very well organized lately, their goalie is playing with a lot of confidence, and they have the best player on the field. It's unfortunate that DiMaria is banged up, because he could be a difference maker. >>
I don't think I'd call Germany a heavy favorite; Pinnacle has the 1x2 at Germany +139/ Argentina +246 (the draw is +215).
I hate to say it, but I think the final's going to be pretty dull. I doubt either team is going to push up too high and expose themselves to a counter, so I think we'll see a lot of sideways passing.
<< <i>Edmund - all good points...but you might be falling into the same trap that the betting public is, by putting too much stock into the 7-1 rout of a Brazil team that was mentally weak. >>
I'm actually putting my stock in an Argentina team that has played two consecutive overtime games, and a Germany team that has an extra days rest. Combine that with an Argentine defense that will be attacked all day long by a German team that knows it's going against tired legs, and
you have a recipe for disaster with Argentina.
I'm not a betting man, but if I was, I'd take 3-1 odds on this game easily.
Edited to add that anyone who thinks we're going to see the same kind of game like Holland-Argentina just doesn't understand this German team or German soccer tradition. Germany has become the first team ever to make 4 consecutive semifinals in the World Cup, and they can become the first team in the world to ever win a World Cup on foreign soil (i.e. European team winning in South America vs. South American team winning in Europe). The German soccer federation will hang the German coach if they don't see an all out attack Sunday against a tired Argentina team with an average defense at best. Jurgen Klinsmann is on the phone right now telling Loew to keep the attack up all game long, and Argentina will collapse in the 2nd half.
Could you imagine being in a room with Klinsmann, Beckenbauer, Breitner, Gerd Mueller, and Ballack and see the expressions on their face
if Germany were playing a sideways game all game long ? I think you'd hear every German curse word in the book if that happened.
Mark my words, Germany will be in an all out, ruthless attack mode in the 2nd half on Sunday.
He gets the assignment of covering Messi when Real Madrid plays Barcelona. He knows Messi very well. With Khedira fit once again, Messi
may see very little of the ball Sunday. When Messi does get the ball, he will have to contend with a faster Khedira. Tactically Argentina is in a huge mess this Sunday. More of a tactical mess then they were against Iran (1-0), Swiss (1-0) and Holland (1-0).
Argentina's defense has huge headaches this Sunday.