Some of the Squads announced
Brazil
Coach: Carlo Ancelotti
Announced their final squad on May 18
Goalkeepers:
Alisson (Liverpool), Éderson (Fenerbahce), Weverton (Grêmio)
Defenders:
Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Bremer (Juventus), Danilo (Flamengo), Douglas Santos (Zenit St. Petersburg), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal), Léo Pereira (Flamengo), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Roger Ibañez (Al Ahli), Wesley (AS Roma)
Midfielders:
Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo Santos (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al Ittihad), Lucas Paquetá (Flamengo)
Forwards:
Endrick (Lyon), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Thiago (Brentford), Luiz Henrique (Zenit St. Petersburg), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Neymar (Santos), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Japan
Coach: Hajime Moriyasu
Goalkeepers:
Zion Suzuki (Parma), Keisuke Osako (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Tomoki Hayakawa (Kashima Antlers)
Defenders:
Yūto Nagatomo (FC Tokyo), Shogo Taniguchi (Sint-Truiden), Ko Itakura (Ajax), Tsuyoshi Watanabe (Feyenoord), Takehiro Tomiyasu (Ajax), Hiroki Ito (Bayern Munich), Ayumu Seko (Le Havre), Yukinari Sugawara (Werder Bremen)
Midfielders:
Junnosuke Suzuki (Copenhagen), Wataru Endo (Liverpool), Junya Ito (Genk), Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace), Ritsu Doan (Eintracht Frankfurt), Ao Tanaka (Leeds United), Keito Nakamura (Reims), Kaishu Sano (Mainz), Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad), Yuito Suzuki (Freiburg)
Forwards:
Koki Ogawa (NEC Nijmegen), Daizen Maeda (Celtic), Ayase Ueda (Feyenoord), Kento Shiogai (VfL Wolfsburg), Keisuke Goto (Sint-Truiden)
Netherlands
Coach: Ronald Koeman
Will announce their final squad on May 27
Sweden
Coach: Graham Potter
Goalkeepers:
Viktor Johansson (Stoke City), Kristoffer Nordfeldt (AIK), Jacob Widell Zetterstrom (Derby County)
Defenders:
Hjalmar Ekdal (Burnley), Gabriel Gudmundsson (Leeds United), Isak Hien (Atalanta), Emil Holm (Juventus), Gustaf Lagerbielke (Braga), Victor Lindelöf (Aston Villa), Erik Smith (St. Pauli), Carl Starfelt (Celta Vigo), Elliot Stroud (Mjallby), Daniel Svensson (Borussia Dortmund)
Midfielders:
Taha Ali (Malmo), Yasin Ayari (Brighton), Lucas Bergvall (Tottenham), Jesper Karlström (Udinese), Ken Sema (Pafos), Mattias Svanberg (Wolfsburg), Besfort Zeneli (Union St-Gilloise)
Forwards:
Alexander Bernhardsson (Holstein Kiel), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle United), Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal), Alexander Isak (Liverpool), Gustaf Nilsson (Club Brugge), Benjamin Nygren (Celtic)
Belgium
Coach: Rudi Garcia
Goalkeepers:
Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), Senne Lammens (Manchester United), Mike Penders (Chelsea)
Defenders:
Timothy Castagne (Fulham), Zeno Debast (Sporting CP), Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton & Hove Albion), Koni De Winter (AC Milan), Brandon Mechele (Club Brugge), Thomas Meunier (Lille), Nathan Ngoy (Lille), Joaquin Seys (Club Brugge), Arthur Theate (Eintracht Frankfurt),
Midfielders:
Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Amadou Onana (Aston Villa), Nicolas Raskin (Rangers), Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa), Hans Vanaken (Club Brugge), Axel Witsel (Girona)
Forwards:
Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Jérémy Doku (Manchester City), Matias Fernandez-Pardo (Lille), Romelu Lukaku (Napoli), Dodi Lukebakio (Benfica), Diego Moreira (Strasbourg), Alexis Saelemaekers (AC Milan), Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)
France
Coach: Didier Deschamps
Announced their final squad on May 14
Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Robin Risser (Lens), Brice Samba (Rennes)
Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), Lucas Hernández (Paris Saint-Germain), Theo Hernández (Al Hilal), Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool), Jules Koundé (Barcelona), Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)
Midfielders: N'Golo Kanté (Fenerbahçe), Manu Koné (AS Roma), Adrien Rabiot (AC Milan), Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaïre-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain)
Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche (AS Monaco), Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain), Désiré Doué (Paris Saint-Germain), Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace), Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Internazionale)
Croatia
Coach: Zlatko Dalic
Goalkeepers:
Dominik Livakovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Dominik Kotarski (Kobenhavn), Ivor Pandur (Hull City)
Defenders:
Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City), Duje Caleta-Car (Real Sociedad), Josip Sutalo (Ajax), Josip Stanisic (Bayern Munich), Marin Pongracic (Fiorentina), Martin Erlic (Midtjylland), Luka Vuskovic (Hamburg)
Midfielders:
Luka Modric (AC Milan), Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City), Mario Pasalic (Atalanta), Nikola Vlasic (Torino), Luka Sucic (Real Sociedad), Martin Baturina (Como), Kristijan Jakic (Augsburg), Petar Sucic (Inter Milan), Nikola Moro (Bologna), Toni Furk (Rijeka)
Forwards:
Ivan Perisic (PSV Eindhoven), Andrej Kramaric (Hoffenheim), Ante Budemir (Osasuna), Marco Pasalic (Orlando City), Petar Musa (FC Dallas), Igor Matanovic (Freiburg)
No J Pedro in Brazil squad a surprise he has been one of the few positives for Chelsea this season and better than some of the lads on the plane.
Think that's one of the worst Brazil squads I've seen in my lifetime
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 19, 2026, 09:02:02 AMThink that's one of the worst Brazil squads I've seen in my lifetime
The Midfielders alone :o
The Brazil forwards on paper aren't too bad. I'm not sure what Neymar has left in the tank. Probably very little.
France midfield isn't great either. Their attackers are probably the best in the tournament though.
Is it coming home? They've a decent chance the bastids.
Are you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Hard to see past France or Spain, Portugal have some team if they'd drop Ronaldo I could see them winning it.
Portugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Quote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
Do the Argies have any chance of retaining it?
Quote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 10:33:30 AMPortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:18:37 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
England are miles better than Norway and Poland which of course you know. And Kane is better than Haaland and Lewandowski.
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 10:33:30 AMPortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
As a United fan would love to see Ronaldo finally get his medal but ironically his legs being gone and as you say that clown of a coach who won't drop him are probably the 2 biggest stumbling blocks. Casemiro another fella I'd love to see win it.
Quote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 11:22:25 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:18:37 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
England are miles better than Norway and Poland which of course you know. And Kane is better than Haaland and Lewandowski.
Behave yourself
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 10:33:30 AMDeschamps hasn't a notion either.
Also behave.
Has won a WC, gotten to another final and a European final.
By a distance the longest serving French manager
QuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
Quote from: toby47 on May 19, 2026, 10:53:17 AMDo the Argies have any chance of retaining it?
A solid GK and 9 men running their balls off to carry the highest IQ player at the tournament, I think yes they've got a sniff, won't be easy but will take a v good team to beat them
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 12:04:07 PMQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
Aye, now maybe . But that was the Ronaldo of 10 years ago
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:59:51 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 11:22:25 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:18:37 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
England are miles better than Norway and Poland which of course you know. And Kane is better than Haaland and Lewandowski.
Behave yourself
There's maybe a debate about Haaland (I would take Kane over him personally) but you can't seriously be suggesting Lewandowski is currently a better player than Kane? Jeeeez.
Quote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 12:25:36 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:59:51 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 11:22:25 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:18:37 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
England are miles better than Norway and Poland which of course you know. And Kane is better than Haaland and Lewandowski.
Behave yourself
There's maybe a debate about Haaland (I would take Kane over him personally) but you can't seriously be suggesting Lewandowski is currently a better player than Kane? Jeeeez.
Are we arguing who is better? The Barca or Bayern main striker?
They are both the best at what they do.
But the argument that one player up top can carry a team to a WC win is nonsense. Maybe Maradona in 86, but Kane is no Maradona
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 12:48:31 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 12:25:36 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:59:51 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 11:22:25 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 19, 2026, 11:18:37 AMQuote from: square_ball on May 19, 2026, 10:43:13 AMQuote from: An Watcher on May 19, 2026, 10:08:00 AMAre you for real?
Centre Halves not great
Attacking players out of form
Over reliance on Harry Kane
First decent side they meet they're gone. Unfortunately that mightnt be until the latter stages
Aye think they've a right decent chance. Excellent manager and Kane is one of the best strikers in the world. It will take a very good team to beat them and there's not too many of them in the tournament imo.
So do Poland and Norway.
He needs to be given the ball.
England are miles better than Norway and Poland which of course you know. And Kane is better than Haaland and Lewandowski.
Behave yourself
There's maybe a debate about Haaland (I would take Kane over him personally) but you can't seriously be suggesting Lewandowski is currently a better player than Kane? Jeeeez.
Are we arguing who is better? The Barca or Bayern main striker?
They are both the best at what they do.
But the argument that one player up top can carry a team to a WC win is nonsense. Maybe Maradona in 86, but Kane is no Maradona
I never made the argument that Kane will carry England to the world cup on his own. A previous poster was rubbishing Englands chances and I said they had a chance owing to having a very good manager and one of the best strikers in the world. I am not sure what is controversial about saying that?
Some going from Modric, Ronaldo and Edin Dzeko to be involved at 40 +. Messi is obviously not far behind either.
Gareth Bale was retired at 31/32.
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 12:13:21 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
Aye, now maybe . But that was the Ronaldo of 10 years ago
Was that when he got injured in the semi-final and had to come off?
Pepe was still playing back then, so if it was I'll stick by my original point that when he went off and in the final Portugal were a better all-round team without him.
Quote from: johnnycool on May 19, 2026, 12:10:54 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 12:04:07 PMQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
That statements true now but not 10 years ago when Ronaldo was winning champions leagues and Ballon D'ors
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
Aye, now maybe . But that was the Ronaldo of 10 years ago
Was that when he got injured in the semi-final and had to come off?
Pepe was still playing back then, so if it was I'll stick by my original point that when he went off and in the final Portugal were a better all-round team without him.
Ronaldo carried Portugal to that final. Got injured early in the final, came off , and France still couldn't beat them
Eder scores the ET winner. A man who was on loan at Swansea I believe. Never heard of again
Really hope Portugal don't go the distance. I can't help but feel the US would be delighted with Infantino and Trump presenting the World Cup to Ronaldo.
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 02:16:29 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
Aye, now maybe . But that was the Ronaldo of 10 years ago
Was that when he got injured in the semi-final and had to come off?
Pepe was still playing back then, so if it was I'll stick by my original point that when he went off and in the final Portugal were a better all-round team without him.
Ronaldo carried Portugal to that final. Got injured early in the final, came off , and France still couldn't beat them
Eder scores the ET winner. A man who was on loan at Swansea I believe. Never heard of again
I thought it was the semi-final he got injured in. I bow to your greater knowledge.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on May 19, 2026, 02:18:22 PMReally hope Portugal don't go the distance. I can't help but feel the US would be delighted with Infantino and Trump presenting the World Cup to Ronaldo.
Ronaldo was a great supporter of the Palestinians, I wonder is that still the case!
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on May 19, 2026, 02:18:22 PMReally hope Portugal don't go the distance. I can't help but feel the US would be delighted with Infantino and Trump presenting the World Cup to Ronaldo.
They'll not win anything with that tube Martinez... Failed upwards. Squandered a Belgian golden generation and will do the same with Portugal.
Quote from: johnnycool on May 19, 2026, 02:19:11 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 19, 2026, 02:16:29 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePortugal haven't a hope under Martinez
Deschamps hasn't a notion either. Mbappe is a dick so hope they don't win it
Spain I'd say are favourites
I'd like to see someone like Croatia win it
Is that deschamps that won a WC and got to another final?
He also choked in a Euro final at home against a Ronaldo-less Portugal
And his team has been awful in a few tournaments as well. Last Euros I don't think they scored from open play.
For me "a Ronaldo-less Portugal" is better than the one with him in it.
Just saying.
Kane won't get the service he needs to score the goals to get England anywhere serious in this competition, he isn't bad.
There will be a bolter from somewhere that hasn't shown much as yet, a Uruguay or a Belgium could get a good run and get a semi berth.
No point watching for the first few weeks, loads of shíte matches.
Aye, now maybe . But that was the Ronaldo of 10 years ago
Was that when he got injured in the semi-final and had to come off?
Pepe was still playing back then, so if it was I'll stick by my original point that when he went off and in the final Portugal were a better all-round team without him.
Ronaldo carried Portugal to that final. Got injured early in the final, came off , and France still couldn't beat them
Eder scores the ET winner. A man who was on loan at Swansea I believe. Never heard of again
I thought it was the semi-final he got injured in. I bow to your greater knowledge.
Semi was v Wales. The final had the swarm of moths, one landing on Ronaldo face while he lay injured
Yeah he went off in the final. He was doing most of the instructions along the line when he went off. There is more quality in the current Portuguese squad.
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves), Rui Silva (Sporting), Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi).
Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce), Joao Cancelo (Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (Paris St-Germain), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting), Renato Veiga (Villarreal), Tomas Araujo (Benfica).
Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal), Samu Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (Paris St-Germain), Vitinha (Paris St-Germain), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City).
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Joao Felix (Al-Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (Paris St-Germain).
Strong but forward line lacking a bit? I think they're better off without Ronaldo but when you look at that strike force, not sure
Had a look at the Scotland squad yday. Jesus but they are bad. No clue how they've made it as watched some of their matches v greece and they were desparate.
3 goalkeepers with 15 games between them this year. Gordon 43. Poor defence and forwards. I accept they've a decent midfield
Quote from: An Watcher on May 20, 2026, 10:28:48 AMStrong but forward line lacking a bit? I think they're better off without Ronaldo but when you look at that strike force, not sure
Sad day but Ronaldo looks totally done, seen a few clips playing against nobodies in Saudi and the legs have gone. Their midfield is unreal
Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Adam Wharton, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have all been left out of the England World Cup squad
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 21, 2026, 07:51:01 PMPhil Foden, Cole Palmer, Adam Wharton, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have all been left out of the England World Cup squad
I seen that. Probably two of their most creative players, although they've had very average seasons.
All is needed is for Harry Kane to be left out , and we can all sleep soundly for the next 2 months
Jordan Henderson is to be included. Probably for the card tricks and quizzes.
Yeah they have been average. Gibbs White is another who has been left out. He had a good season.
Scotland could do with a Troy Parrot in attack. A lack of quality in attack and poor centre backs.
Ivan Toney called up apparently.. Strange one that in my opinion, hes scored well but Calvert-Lewin and Welbeck been in very good form this season at a higher level
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 21, 2026, 08:35:40 PMIvan Toney called up apparently.. Strange one that in my opinion, hes scored well but Calvert-Lewin and Welbeck been in very good form this season at a higher level
They need someone to hold the bets at the back of the bus.
*Edit a fake English leaked squad.
Quote from: Blowitupref on May 21, 2026, 08:45:02 PM(https://i.ibb.co/93tqXbnH/HI3-CVCTXk-AA1ho5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1fK5BsF)
Is that real? Palmer is in there. thought he was missing out
Quote from: gawa316 on May 21, 2026, 09:16:33 PMIs that real? Palmer is in there. thought he was missing out
Doesn't appear so. BBC are reporting Palmer won't make the squad.
(https://i.ibb.co/1GXwX5hR/HI3y57-Mbc-AAf-Ci.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YBdqdMYf)
(https://imgbb.com/)
Love the way England say they are going to announce the squad on Friday morning and on the Thursday there is more leaks than a sieve about the squad. Always the way with the English media.
Whether that's starting or whether it's deciding games late on. I still believe, even at my age, I'm arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes. I don't think that's to question really.
Harry Maguire. Is he fir real
Quote from: square_ball on May 21, 2026, 09:49:06 PMLove the way England say they are going to announce the squad on Friday morning and on the Thursday there is more leaks than a sieve about the squad. Always the way with the English media.
Players already been told who's in and who's out. Looks like them and their agents are leaking if they're in the squad or not - Maguires ma on twitter crying say it's "disgusting"
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 21, 2026, 11:19:34 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 21, 2026, 09:49:06 PMLove the way England say they are going to announce the squad on Friday morning and on the Thursday there is more leaks than a sieve about the squad. Always the way with the English media.
Players already been told who's in and who's out. Looks like them and their agents are leaking if they're in the squad or not - Maguires ma on twitter crying say it's "disgusting"
The Maguire's would rip your arms off. I've seen Shameless. Tuchel better reconsider if he knows what's good for him
Quote from: An Watcher on May 21, 2026, 11:08:46 PMWhether that's starting or whether it's deciding games late on. I still believe, even at my age, I'm arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes. I don't think that's to question really.
Harry Maguire. Is he fir real
His self entitlement is very real.
Ridiculous call not bringing Maguire for all that.
Quote from: Armagh18 on May 22, 2026, 06:45:31 AMRidiculous call not bringing Maguire for all that.
The starting centre backs are Stones (if fit) and Guehi with Konsa from Villa as back up as there's no way Stones is going to not pick up and injury.
Maguire isn't all that even in his prime, a Terry Butcher type character but not great if the truth was told.
Gazza wrecked the joint back in the day, this is pussycat stuff, the one thing I do find disgusting is having your ma on twitter. I wouldn't even be on twitter!
On the squad, this is the weakest they have had for a while, the form of many of the better players hasn't been great Burn Henderson and Toney would be very hard to judge, but hey ho, here's hoping they get dicked in every game
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 21, 2026, 11:27:58 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on May 21, 2026, 11:19:34 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 21, 2026, 09:49:06 PMLove the way England say they are going to announce the squad on Friday morning and on the Thursday there is more leaks than a sieve about the squad. Always the way with the English media.
Players already been told who's in and who's out. Looks like them and their agents are leaking if they're in the squad or not - Maguires ma on twitter crying say it's "disgusting"
The Maguire's would rip your arms off. I've seen Shameless. Tuchel better reconsider if he knows what's good for him
I don't think the maguires in real life are much different from the ones in shameless...
Quote from: johnnycool on May 22, 2026, 08:24:59 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on May 22, 2026, 06:45:31 AMRidiculous call not bringing Maguire for all that.
The starting centre backs are Stones (if fit) and Guehi with Konsa from Villa as back up as there's no way Stones is going to not pick up and injury.
Maguire isn't all that even in his prime, a Terry Butcher type character but not great if the truth was told.
Harry Maguire might not be all some make him out to be but he's better than some in that squad.
I'm concerned that Tuchel might actually have got this right overall because he has left some out of form players at home. Hoping I'm wrong
Youd have to take a look at yourself if Burn, Hendo and Toney are on that plane before you. Foden needs to leave city (but he wont) and Palmer looks like he was a pen merchant and even that isnt working now. So neither of those 2 could have many complaints.
I dont think they should be contenders at all really. Here's hoping.
Tuchel is a canny operator, well attuned to rocking the boat himself, he's profiled not only their ability but their character and personality, and with the likes of Maguire Palmer and Trent I think he's basically decided he can't be fucked spending 6 weeks of his life in the company of an excess of grown up weins especially when he invariably has to rely on some for results, there's a threshold and he's basically chosen to go with Rashford Bellingham at the expense of the other 3, you couldn't carry 5 balloons it would descend into farce, I think he's given himself a real chance of punching, will be mighty impressed if he has the baws to leave Bellingham out in favour of Rodgers to begin with, I think he Bellingham could slightly adjust the ego to playing for the team rather than himself they could elevate to potential winner
I'd have brought Maguire myself.
A manager trying to bring "squad depth" to a World Cup is a pointless pursuit. Realistically, if 4-5 first choice players get injured, then you're not winning the tournament. Not a hope. So bringing along a bunch of players who aren't up the mark is largely an irrelevance.
But you're also very unlikely to win a WC without being able to hold onto a one goal leads under aerial pressure, and without being able to summon up a late goal when one behind.
Hence the bench, imho, should be stacked with players who can aid these scenarios, and Maguire is one of the best in the world at both.
Poor enough England squad now it's fully announced.. Won't have to worry about them winning it thank god. Maybe Tuchel is a German spy sabotaging them after all
Wonder what odds you'd have got a while back on no Foden or Palmer but Jordan f**king Henderson and Dan Burn included!
Its a pragmatic selection designed to get the job done, look back at Germanys last win in 2014, most memorable moment was blasting Brazil in the semi final, a team with plenty of stars but a few jobbing as well, Benedikt Höwedes, Christoph Kramer and Per Mertesacker won't get on any all-time lists but when called upon they had enough about them to steady the ship
If England can get Kane Saka Rashford to synch in the manner of Kane Diaz Olise they'll punch
Always an interesting watch, the closer they get the worse it kind of is but at the same time the more enjoyable to watch it fall to pieces, predicting this campaigns pantomime villain will be Bellingham, build him up to break him down
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 22, 2026, 10:02:44 AMPoor enough England squad now it's fully announced.. Won't have to worry about them winning it thank god. Maybe Tuchel is a German spy sabotaging them after all
The Germans got wind of Tyrone's outreach programme in Doire, sterling work
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 21, 2026, 07:51:01 PMPhil Foden, Cole Palmer, Adam Wharton, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have all been left out of the England World Cup squad
If anyone saw Fodens cameo against Bournemouth Tuesday might would reason enough not to bring him. Palmer has been awful this season, Gibbs White would be the most unlucky of the three to miss out as he has been excellent.
Wharton is another player that would have taken.
Surprised that Maguire has went so publicly about his omission from squad would have thought he was more professional than that.
Quote from: statto on May 22, 2026, 10:28:58 AMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 21, 2026, 07:51:01 PMPhil Foden, Cole Palmer, Adam Wharton, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have all been left out of the England World Cup squad
If anyone saw Fodens cameo against Bournemouth Tuesday might would reason enough not to bring him. Palmer has been awful this season, Gibbs White would be the most unlucky of the three to miss out as he has been excellent.
Wharton is another player that would have taken.
Surprised that Maguire has went so publicly about his omission from squad would have thought he was more professional than that.
See his ma isn't amused!
Given his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
he has shown before he's an eejit. Just another footballer who is an eejit that's all.
Quote from: statto on May 22, 2026, 10:28:58 AMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 21, 2026, 07:51:01 PMPhil Foden, Cole Palmer, Adam Wharton, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have all been left out of the England World Cup squad
If anyone saw Fodens cameo against Bournemouth Tuesday might would reason enough not to bring him. Palmer has been awful this season, Gibbs White would be the most unlucky of the three to miss out as he has been excellent.
Wharton is another player that would have taken.
Surprised that Maguire has went so publicly about his omission from squad would have thought he was more professional than that.
Can't say I blame Maguire, realistically his last chance to play at a world cup and he was always good for England even when he was shite at United. Solid and a brilliant option as Wobbler says to either defend a 1 nil lead or as a target man if you're chasing a goal.
Quote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 22, 2026, 10:59:17 AMQuote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Gibbs White is the form player, who has missed out.
Quote from: lurganblue on May 22, 2026, 11:04:03 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on May 22, 2026, 10:59:17 AMQuote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Gibbs White is the form player, who has missed out.
When talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Yep he's reducing the risk of tail wagging the dog bs by eliminating a few with the potential to go postal, Bellingham and Rashford the standout unicorns among some very solid pros, I expect they either fall in line or warm the bench. Rashford in particular has the ability to blow very hot in turn creating proper space for Kane Saka and MF entering the final third, a calculated gamble from Tuchel
You couldn't have Bellingham Trent Maguire Rashford and Palmer on the same tour
Clive Woodward picked Mike Catt over Austin Healey for a reason, Tuchel is there to win not f**k about
Quote from: tiempo on May 22, 2026, 11:39:50 AMYep he's reducing the risk of tail wagging the dog bs by eliminating a few with the potential to go postal, Bellingham and Rashford the standout unicorns among some very solid pros, I expect they either fall in line or warm the bench. Rashford in particular has the ability to blow very hot in turn creating proper space for Kane Saka and MF entering the final third, a calculated gamble from Tuchel
You couldn't have Bellingham Trent Maguire Rashford and Palmer on the same tour
Clive Woodward picked Mike Catt over Austin Healey for a reason, Tuchel is there to win not f**k about
Where's this about Maguire coming from? Would have struck me as a proper professional, he turned his career around big time at United when most wanted him gone and would be the sort of boy who'd be happy enough with a bench role.
The others all seem like twats to me in fairness.
There's never been any reports of Palmer/Trent/Maguire being bad eggs. And if they were the English media would soon tell everyone about it.
England have a good first 11 and maybe one or two after that. I still think they have a decent chance but that defence when you see it written down on paper could be their undoing. O'Reilly for all his qualities isn't a full back by trade and a full back under Pep is very different to a full back in any other system.
Was there not something about Maguire being up to no good in Greece?
Quote from: SaffronSports on May 22, 2026, 12:22:54 PMWas there not something about Maguire being up to no good in Greece?
Battered a few boyos, some cops too, because someone tried to grab his sister
Quote from: SaffronSports on May 22, 2026, 12:22:54 PMWas there not something about Maguire being up to no good in Greece?
Aggravated assault and then tried to bribe the cops to let him go lol! Too many times heading the ball will do that!
Quote from: SaffronSports on May 22, 2026, 12:22:54 PMWas there not something about Maguire being up to no good in Greece?
No, you're thinking of John Travolta
Quote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMQuote from: lurganblue on May 22, 2026, 11:04:03 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on May 22, 2026, 10:59:17 AMQuote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Gibbs White is the form player, who has missed out.
When talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
A poor choice of words from myself, thanks for the entire board for calling me out on it, it wont happen again!
He is not picking players who are not on form, despite big reputations, might be a better way of putting it.
Regardless of who is chosen, I think we can all agree as long as they don't win the thing, we will all be happy. There, a sentence nobody can call me out on.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 22, 2026, 10:59:17 AMQuote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Stones played 8 league games all season. Gordon is either on fire or anonymous.
Don't know if Foden was injured slot this season , or whether Pep has squeezed all creativity out of him and turned him into a shadow of his former self, like he did with Grealish
Either way , I hope the signs are good for an England flop. The earlier it happens , the better
Quote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 12:36:10 PMQuote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMQuote from: lurganblue on May 22, 2026, 11:04:03 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on May 22, 2026, 10:59:17 AMQuote from: Ethan Tremblay on May 22, 2026, 10:46:03 AMGiven his age, this would have been his last tournament, he can afford to burn bridges and vent. His form has improved for sure, but he must have some ego on him to assume he would be going. He's good but clearly not that good.
Fair play to Tuchel for picking players on form, as opposed reputation, a gutsy call to leave these players out.
Stones? Gordon? Burn? Henderson? Yeah they are really tearing it up lol
Gibbs White is the form player, who has missed out.
When talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
A poor choice of words from myself, thanks for the entire board for calling me out on it, it wont happen again!
He is not picking players who are not on form, despite big reputations, might be a better way of putting it.
Regardless of who is chosen, I think we can all agree as long as they don't win the thing, we will all be happy. There, a sentence nobody can call me out on.
case closed. :D. But I'm sure some f**ker on here will disgaree!
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 22, 2026, 10:02:44 AMPoor enough England squad now it's fully announced.. Won't have to worry about them winning it thank god. Maybe Tuchel is a German spy sabotaging them after all
I'd be careful writing off England, most of the other squads look fairly underwhelming also. In Tuchel they have a manager that led Chelsea to Champions league success when few including their own supporters expected it.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on May 22, 2026, 01:36:14 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on May 22, 2026, 10:02:44 AMPoor enough England squad now it's fully announced.. Won't have to worry about them winning it thank god. Maybe Tuchel is a German spy sabotaging them after all
I'd be careful writing off England, most of the other squads look fairly underwhelming also. In Tuchel they have a manager that led Chelsea to Champions league success when few including their own supporters expected it.
Worryingly, you're right
I've no faith in France/Deschamps, despite their talents. Mbappe , a bell end. Same with Martinez. Good team but he hasn't a notion, and too weak to drop Ronaldo.
Don't think Germany havr enough in them . Netherlands, not a hope. Belgium, their good crop are well past it. . Modric is 40, so can't see him being as influential either. Spain probably the best equipped to win it from the European teams.
Messi 38, not sure he can have the same influence this time. Is Brazil still playing Neymar? They're fecked if he's playing. Another bell end
when you look back at world cups in the past filled with different superstars and personalities and you look at the different squads named so far for this one it's actually quite depressing.
It will be interesting to see what Pochettino can do with USA. He was bullish enough talking about their chances recently. No superstars but Pulisic and Balogun were well regarded coming through. Robinson is a good full backs at Fulham.
Quote from: tyroneStatto on May 22, 2026, 02:52:23 PMwhen you look back at world cups in the past filled with different superstars and personalities and you look at the different squads named so far for this one it's actually quite depressing.
In fairness there's still Messi Ronaldo Neymar Modric and Mbappe though I know past their best and definitely a swansong for four of them.
Just hoping for a few good games once the bloated early stages are over
Quote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMWhen talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Toney has scored 32 in 32
Quote from: gawa316 on May 22, 2026, 03:58:01 PMQuote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMWhen talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Toney has scored 32 in 32
Playing in the equivalent of the Leinster Senior League. And he only moved there because he was told he was dead to England.
I can see the arguments for and against Maguire, Palmer and Foden. But Toney is a f**king mental call.
Maybe its the step away from the norm that might get them over the line.
I can see the bastids doing it.
Quote from: gawa316 on May 22, 2026, 03:58:01 PMQuote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMWhen talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Toney has scored 32 in 32
Was gonna say that earlier. May be a poor league but he'll be high on confidence and it's not to say whoever he took the place of is some sort of superstar. A bit left field but hey ho
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 22, 2026, 04:19:41 PMQuote from: gawa316 on May 22, 2026, 03:58:01 PMQuote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMWhen talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Toney has scored 32 in 32
Playing in the equivalent of the Leinster Senior League. And he only moved there because he was told he was dead to England.
I can see the arguments for and against Maguire, Palmer and Foden. But Toney is a f**king mental call.
Surely you're taking Danny Welbeck who's actually had a good season at a high level?
Calvert Lewin got 14 for Leeds and was unlucky. The calibre of strikers for England and other countries has dropped a fair bit. Holland always had top strikers but not now. Italy have missed out on the last 3 world cups and not producing top strikers.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 22, 2026, 04:19:41 PMQuote from: gawa316 on May 22, 2026, 03:58:01 PMQuote from: thewobbler on May 22, 2026, 11:34:14 AMWhen talking form...
Don't forget Ivan Toney. How can he picked on form?
Rashford is a squad player at Barca.
Djed Spence can't get into the worst Spurs team in 50 years.
It's got eff all to do with form it seems.
I for some reason get the impression that the only ego he's willing to pursue is Bellingham.
Which can't end well for England.
Toney has scored 32 in 32
Playing in the equivalent of the Leinster Senior League. And he only moved there because he was told he was dead to England.
I can see the arguments for and against Maguire, Palmer and Foden. But Toney is a f**king mental call.
It's still form. People on here were questioning his form. He scored a goal a game (regardless of the league) that's good form
Can't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 03:27:40 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on May 22, 2026, 02:52:23 PMwhen you look back at world cups in the past filled with different superstars and personalities and you look at the different squads named so far for this one it's actually quite depressing.
In fairness there's still Messi Ronaldo Neymar Modric and Mbappe though I know past their best and definitely a swansong for four of them.
Just hoping for a few good games once the bloated early stages are over
I'm just hoping England go out early . After that, I couldn't give a shite .
There'll always be decent games, and always be shite games. At least if those backstards go home early, you can enjoy it, shite games or not
I don't mind them getting to the latter stages but yes as long as they don't win. I think we're safe enough. They're a qf or sf team in my book
Gives us something to talk about. Look at the debate about the squad sure 😆
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Henderson is 35 and is picked ahead of Wharton. Welbeck had a great season.
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 22, 2026, 07:14:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Henderson is 35 and is picked ahead of Wharton. Welbeck had a great season.
The Henderson selection is crazy. It's years since he was any good at club level.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on May 22, 2026, 07:21:59 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 22, 2026, 07:14:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Henderson is 35 and is picked ahead of Wharton. Welbeck had a great season.
The Henderson selection is crazy. It's years since he was any good at club level.
Ah but you want him around the place for card tricks and quizzes in the evening.
Henderson is a strange one. 35 years old, centre midfield, playing in that heat.
Reminds me of Walcott in 2006. Never played in the PL, and included but never seen action even in the dead rubber match.
I tend to think Sven included Walcott as a 'f**k you' to the men in the suits, as he was leaving anyway.
Maybe Henderson is Tuchel's 'f**k you'. I believe his contract is only up to the end of the tournament.
My guess is Henderson is there for his leadership in and around the squad. Doubt he will get much playing time and he won't be crying to the media if he doesn't.
Henderson is the only current active Eng player to captain a PL and CL winning side, he's there in a player coach mentoring capacity, kinda obvious, might get a couple of token minutes in the group
Quote from: tiempo on May 22, 2026, 11:51:54 PMHenderson is the only current active Eng player to captain a PL and CL winning side, he's there in a player coach mentoring capacity, kinda obvious, might get a couple of token minutes in the group
That's some fucken tenuous shit right there
Quote from: tiempo on May 22, 2026, 11:51:54 PMHenderson is the only current active Eng player to captain a PL and CL winning side, he's there in a player coach mentoring capacity, kinda obvious, might get a couple of token minutes in the group
Such a waste of a place then. You might as well bring Rio Ferdinand. He captained the same. He could go around saying everything is wicked, and calling everyone bro, and show the England players how to dance on the sand
Henderson will get a few 10/15mins to help close out games the way milner used to for Liverpool
Walcott for me was an Owen type pick. Young speedster just on the scene. Element of surprise. Didn't work out.
Now tell me more about these f**k you picks I could do with a laugh 😄
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 23, 2026, 12:17:17 AMQuote from: tiempo on May 22, 2026, 11:51:54 PMHenderson is the only current active Eng player to captain a PL and CL winning side, he's there in a player coach mentoring capacity, kinda obvious, might get a couple of token minutes in the group
Such a waste of a place then. You might as well bring Rio Ferdinand. He captained the same. He could go around saying everything is wicked, and calling everyone bro, and show the England players how to dance on the sand
Difference is Rio is a w**ker
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 23, 2026, 12:36:04 AMHenderson will get a few 10/15mins to help close out games the way milner used to for Liverpool
Walcott for me was an Owen type pick. Young speedster just on the scene. Element of surprise. Didn't work out.
Now tell me more about these f**k you picks I could do with a laugh 😄
Except Sven didn't play Walcott. Not even in the dead rubber. Not even for a minute.
Owen at least had a very good season over him by the 1998 tournament. But the Walcott inclusion was really bizarre.
Hence the didn't work out bit 😄
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Far better player than Ivan Toney and some of the shite they've brought. Looking forward to Spain, France or Portugal making wee boys out of them.
Quote from: Armagh18 on May 23, 2026, 08:40:02 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Far better player than Ivan Toney and some of the shite they've brought. Looking forward to Spain, France or Portugal making wee boys out of them.
Can Toney play in any league now?
If so, you'd have to think that he will be back in the Premiership this summer.
Somebody should take a punt on him. I wonder what price he'd be?
Quote from: marty34 on May 23, 2026, 08:57:48 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on May 23, 2026, 08:40:02 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Far better player than Ivan Toney and some of the shite they've brought. Looking forward to Spain, France or Portugal making wee boys out of them.
Can Toney play in any league now?
If so, you'd have to think that he will be back in the Premiership this summer.
Somebody should take a punt on him. I wonder what price he'd be?
He'd back himself to be back in the premier league that's a definite
Looks like everyone forgot about Henderson's switch to Saudi and his backing of same sex marriage lol
Granted I don't watch a whole pile of English football but there's a lot of players there I don't recognise.
Where is toney playing these days?
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 23, 2026, 11:38:05 AMQuote from: marty34 on May 23, 2026, 08:57:48 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on May 23, 2026, 08:40:02 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 22, 2026, 05:39:35 PMCan't believe ones arguing for Welbeck who is 35 and last played for England 8yrs ago.
All about opinion I suppose
Our mate ewan mackenna makes a good point saying they should be allowed to take 40 that way it would stop the endless debate 🤓
Far better player than Ivan Toney and some of the shite they've brought. Looking forward to Spain, France or Portugal making wee boys out of them.
Can Toney play in any league now?
If so, you'd have to think that he will be back in the Premiership this summer.
Somebody should take a punt on him. I wonder what price he'd be?
He'd back himself to be back in the premier league that's a definite
Looks like everyone forgot about Henderson's switch to Saudi and his backing of same sex marriage lol
He may not be a bad punt for Man United as Sesko won't be able to play every game and premier league proven.
He has a great penalty record that's possibly why he was selected.
Quote from: tonto1888 on May 23, 2026, 02:31:03 PMGranted I don't watch a whole pile of English football but there's a lot of Mars there I don't recognise.
Where is toney playing these days?
Saudi.
32/7 G/A this year in 32 games. Spoof league but still.
Quote from: RedHand88 on May 23, 2026, 03:56:37 PMQuote from: tonto1888 on May 23, 2026, 02:31:03 PMGranted I don't watch a whole pile of English football but there's a lot of Mars there I don't recognise.
Where is toney playing these days?
Saudi.
32/7 G/A this year in 32 games. Spoof league but still.
But still what? He is playing in the equivalent of the 7th tier in England.
Boys just plucking numbers out of the air now
Spain.
Note one club not having any call ups..
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona).
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (Paris St-Germain), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid).
Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo).
That'll hardly go down too well, with RM & their compliant media partners.
Quote from: bennydorano on May 25, 2026, 04:45:01 PMThat'll hardly go down too well, with RM & their compliant media partners.
Hard to argue for the inclusion of many of them though. Huijsen and Carvajal the only players in contention and they aren't ahead of anyone picked.
Also Real have been reducing their Spanish contingent for years, this was always likely.
Won't stop them whinging.
Huijsen is a surprise to be honest. He's a vastly superior player to Eric Garcia and has been relatively constant for de la Fuente.
Garcia is genuinely awful. He's never seen a jersey he didn't want to pull or an offside trap he didn't want to make a balls of.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 25, 2026, 04:04:22 PMSpain.
Note one club not having any call ups..
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona).
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (Paris St-Germain), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid).
Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo).
Is Raya the first choice keeper?
Defence can certainly be got at.
Quote from: statto on May 26, 2026, 09:12:28 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 25, 2026, 04:04:22 PMSpain.
Note one club not having any call ups..
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona).
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (Paris St-Germain), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid).
Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo).
Is Raya the first choice keeper?
Defence can certainly be got at.
Unai Simon is, and he's arguably the third best keeper in squad.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 25, 2026, 04:04:22 PMSpain.
Note one club not having any call ups..
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona).
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (Paris St-Germain), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid).
Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo).
Has to be a first surely?
Happened previously under Luis Enrique (Euro 2021), Carvajal was injured, Sergio Ramos was the controversial one, 35 at the time and also injury prone
Colombia World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas (Atlas), Alvaro Montero (Velez Sarsfield), David Ospina (Atletico Nacional)
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
James Rodriguez still involved,
Quote from: statto on May 26, 2026, 09:12:28 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 25, 2026, 04:04:22 PMSpain.
Note one club not having any call ups..
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona).
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (Paris St-Germain), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid).
Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo).
Is Raya the first choice keeper?
Defence can certainly be got at.
Simon has the jersey. Raya has only been a realistic alternative this year
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 26, 2026, 01:56:54 PMColombia World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas (Atlas), Alvaro Montero (Velez Sarsfield), David Ospina (Atletico Nacional)
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
James Rodriguez still involved,
Alvaro Montero one of their keepers plays for Velez Sarsfields in Argentina - a club with Irish Links hence the name
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTW_WdWXJx1tEe8O8AspF4qoGyzKhY7CkkjemHuDo5FVuwhzMq1JO04CS09Nm4blhgPogeWx2KZeQlEgj_caufa7yLXrNVKaZxD7XT5ex0&s=10)
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on May 26, 2026, 03:24:41 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 26, 2026, 01:56:54 PMColombia World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas (Atlas), Alvaro Montero (Velez Sarsfield), David Ospina (Atletico Nacional)
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
James Rodriguez still involved,
Alvaro Montero one of their keepers plays for Velez Sarsfields in Argentina - a club with Irish Links hence the name
The club has no particular Irish links. They're named after the neighborhood in which they're based, which in turn is named after a politician of distant Irish descent.
They're a very, very famous club.
Quote from: gallsman on May 26, 2026, 06:44:21 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on May 26, 2026, 03:24:41 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 26, 2026, 01:56:54 PMColombia World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas (Atlas), Alvaro Montero (Velez Sarsfield), David Ospina (Atletico Nacional)
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
James Rodriguez still involved,
Alvaro Montero one of their keepers plays for Velez Sarsfields in Argentina - a club with Irish Links hence the name
The club has no particular Irish links. They're named after the neighborhood in which they're based, which in turn is named after a politician of distant Irish descent.
They're a very, very famous club.
Chilavert used to play for them.
Quote from: gallsman on May 26, 2026, 06:44:21 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on May 26, 2026, 03:24:41 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 26, 2026, 01:56:54 PMColombia World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas (Atlas), Alvaro Montero (Velez Sarsfield), David Ospina (Atletico Nacional)
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez (Galatasaray), Jhon Lucumi (Bologna), Yerry Mina (Cagliari), Willer Ditta (Cruz Azul), Daniel Munoz (Crystal Palace), Santiago Arias (Independiente), Johan Mojica (Mallorca), Deiver Machado (Nantes)
Midfielders: Richard Rios (Benfica), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace), Kevin Castano (River Plate), Juan Camilo Portilla (Athletico Paranaense), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander), Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Jorge Carrascal (Flamengo), Juan Fernando Quintero (River Plate), James Rodriguez (Minnesota United), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central)
Forwards: Juan Camilo Hernandez (Real Betis), Luis Diaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suarez (Sporting), Carlos Andres Gomez (Vasco da Gama), Jhon Cordoba (Krasnodar)
James Rodriguez still involved,
Alvaro Montero one of their keepers plays for Velez Sarsfields in Argentina - a club with Irish Links hence the name
The club has no particular Irish links. They're named after the neighborhood in which they're based, which in turn is named after a politician of distant Irish descent.
They're a very, very famous club.
What you have just described in my opinion is an Irish Link - Argentina has the 5th largest Irish Diaspora in the World.
Another club in Chile called O'Higgins - don't want to describe it as an Irish Link in case you correct me again Gallsman.
Girl I went to school with in county Derry must have married an Argentinian bloke they have a son in an underage national team, can't mind married name sorry. Goalie
There's some random info for yous to share 🤓
So "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
You could say the same about the Planters.
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
Sometimes you seem very cross
Yes I tried to lighten things earlier. I failed
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
If a club is named after an Irishman, even indirectly, there is an Irish link.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 12:43:46 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
If a club is named after an Irishman, even indirectly, there is an Irish link.
It's not.
There's not.
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 02:38:14 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 12:43:46 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
If a club is named after an Irishman, even indirectly, there is an Irish link.
It's not.
There's not.
"The "Sarsfield" in Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield comes from the 19th-century Argentine politician and lawyer Dalmacio Vélez Sarsfield, who had direct Irish heritage. His grandfather, George Sarsfield, was an Irish nobleman who emigrated from Ireland to Argentina in the early 1700s."
This p***k acting like he knows everything again.
Irish links
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 02:38:14 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 12:43:46 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
If a club is named after an Irishman, even indirectly, there is an Irish link.
It's not.
There's not.
So Sarsfield is an Argentinian name?
This is pigheaded thickery.
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 27, 2026, 02:51:07 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 02:38:14 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 12:43:46 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 11:05:59 AMSo "has Irish links" includes "an Irishman moved to the country 350 years or so ago".
Fascinating.
If a club is named after an Irishman, even indirectly, there is an Irish link.
It's not.
There's not.
"The "Sarsfield" in Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield comes from the 19th-century Argentine politician and lawyer Dalmacio Vélez Sarsfield, who had direct Irish heritage. His grandfather, George Sarsfield, was an Irish nobleman who emigrated from Ireland to Argentina in the early 1700s."
This p***k acting like he knows everything again.
Irish links
Exactly. It's not Celtic or Hibs, but the club is directly named after a fella with an Irish mother.
The Argentine football club Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield was named after the nearby "Vélez Sarsfield" railway station in Buenos Aires. The founders took shelter in the station to escape rain in 1909 and decided to name their newly established club after it
Lad's its about 25 degrees outside would ye not go for an ice cream and a walk instead of arguing about some f**king club on the other side of the world lol
Almirante Brown in Buenos Aires are named after William Brown, a fine Mayo man and founder of the Argentinian navy.
Quote from: johnnycool on May 27, 2026, 03:16:11 PMAlmirante Brown in Buenos Aires are named after William Brown, a fine Mayo man and founder of the Argentinian navy.
Gallsman will be along to tell you William Brown wasn't from Mayo and the club are named after another William Brown.
Quote from: Armagh18 on May 27, 2026, 03:14:21 PMLad's its about 25 degrees outside would ye not go for an ice cream and a walk instead of arguing about some f**king club on the other side of the world lol
I had a 99 at lunchtime and it was delicious
So was the train station named after an Argentinian lawyer with Irish links ?
I got a bit of brain freeze from the ice cream and I'm a wee bit confused
Wikipedia getting some hammering this afternoon
Hoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Genoa C.F.C 'cricket football' not sure there is any Irish in there, plenty of teams in Italy have cricket in them apparently
This place is so educational
Quote from: Mourne Red on May 27, 2026, 02:51:07 PM"The "Sarsfield" in Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield comes from the 19th-century Argentine politician and lawyer Dalmacio Vélez Sarsfield, who had direct Irish heritage. His grandfather, George Sarsfield, was an Irish nobleman who emigrated from Ireland to Argentina in the early 1700s."
This p***k acting like he knows everything again.
Irish links
Who the f**k was questioning as any of that, you thick ****? Do you think that's some sort of revelatory gotcha? We're all able to use Google and Wikipedia. Actually, maybe not all of us.
The club is named after a f**king train station, which is named after the politician, who had Irish ancestry.
"Irish links" my hole.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 03:18:10 PMGallsman will be along to tell you William Brown wasn't from Mayo and the club are named after another William Brown.
Why on earth would I do that? Disingenuous, imbecilic nonsense.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 27, 2026, 04:11:05 PMGenoa C.F.C 'cricket football' not sure there is any Irish in there, plenty of teams in Italy have cricket in them apparently
English merchants set up sports clubs that the locals took on when they left. The cricket didn't endure
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on May 27, 2026, 04:11:05 PMGenoa C.F.C 'cricket football' not sure there is any Irish in there, plenty of teams in Italy have cricket in them apparently
Genoa was literally founded by Englishmen.
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 04:57:12 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on May 27, 2026, 02:51:07 PM"The "Sarsfield" in Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield comes from the 19th-century Argentine politician and lawyer Dalmacio Vélez Sarsfield, who had direct Irish heritage. His grandfather, George Sarsfield, was an Irish nobleman who emigrated from Ireland to Argentina in the early 1700s."
This p***k acting like he knows everything again.
Irish links
Who the f**k was questioning as any of that, you thick ****? Do you think that's some sort of revelatory gotcha? We're all able to use Google and Wikipedia. Actually, maybe not all of us.
The club is named after a f**king train station, which is named after the politician, who had Irish ancestry.
"Irish links" my hole.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 03:18:10 PMGallsman will be along to tell you William Brown wasn't from Mayo and the club are named after another William Brown.
Why on earth would I do that? Disingenuous, imbecilic nonsense.
You took a shit with your trousers on here. Back out while you still have some dignity
I've only looked at the last comments on here but I've seen plenty before from the same source and I have to say Gallsman you are always up for a fight with your inflammatory talk.
How come everyone is a dick or an imbecile except you???
Nearly as many Irish there as Germans lol
Quote from: thebuzz on May 27, 2026, 05:22:14 PMI've only looked at the last comments on here but I've seen plenty before from the same source and I have to say Gallsman you are always up for a fight with your inflammatory talk.
How come everyone is a dick or an imbecile except you???
Because I spend too much time on the internet and have a particular intolerance for idiotic dickheads.
Imagine thinking naming a club after a train station named after a politician of Irish descent was remotely the same as or remotely comparable to naming a club after a specific Irishman.
On the plus side, a few boys desperate to catch me out may have learned a morsel or two of South American history from Google's AI overview during their cursory searches.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 04:59:10 PMQuote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 04:57:12 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on May 27, 2026, 02:51:07 PM"The "Sarsfield" in Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield comes from the 19th-century Argentine politician and lawyer Dalmacio Vélez Sarsfield, who had direct Irish heritage. His grandfather, George Sarsfield, was an Irish nobleman who emigrated from Ireland to Argentina in the early 1700s."
This p***k acting like he knows everything again.
Irish links
Who the f**k was questioning as any of that, you thick ****? Do you think that's some sort of revelatory gotcha? We're all able to use Google and Wikipedia. Actually, maybe not all of us.
The club is named after a f**king train station, which is named after the politician, who had Irish ancestry.
"Irish links" my hole.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on May 27, 2026, 03:18:10 PMGallsman will be along to tell you William Brown wasn't from Mayo and the club are named after another William Brown.
Why on earth would I do that? Disingenuous, imbecilic nonsense.
You took a shit with your trousers on here. Back out while you still have some dignity
Gallsman, you need to chill a bit. Relax lad and enjoy the weather.
Too much aggression in your posts.
As Del Boy said, 'you'll give yourself a coronary'.
Always good to learn a bit about history in whatever guise.
Hang on a second now, I'm the one who was called a p***k out of the blue by a buck eejit who came along and copied and pasted whatever he'd got from Google as if it was some sort of proof that I'm wrong, despite it aligning completely with my original post on the matter, which, let's be honest, he hadn't so much as bothered reading.
I don't think naming a club after a train station that served a neighborhood that was named after a politician that had an Irish granny counts as "having Irish links". Big deal, get the f**k over it.
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 05:42:29 PMImagine thinking naming a club after a train station named after a politician of Irish descent was remotely the same as or remotely comparable to naming a club after a specific Irishman.
Who gives a flying shite if it is or it isn't?
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 12:31:21 PMYes I tried to lighten things earlier. I failed
That's all any of us can do. Time for another Iris pic maybe
Quote from: gallsman on May 27, 2026, 05:57:12 PMHang on a second now, I'm the one who was called a p***k out of the blue by a buck eejit who came along and copied and pasted whatever he'd got from Google as if it was some sort of proof that I'm wrong, despite it aligning completely with my original post on the matter, which, let's be honest, he hadn't so much as bothered reading.
I don't think naming a club after a train station that served a neighborhood that was named after a politician that had an Irish granny counts as "having Irish links". Big deal, get the f**k over it.
Ah I get, you don't fool me.
Your only messin with us. You don't really believe anything you say online.
You make believe vent on here to stop you killing someone in real life.
You nearly fooled me there
Don't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 06:51:42 PMDon't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
No one cares about you ffin friends son.
I checked Wikipedia and it doesn't mention him at all.
Some lads post some sh*t on here.
Seriously would make you explode
Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield do not wear green therefore cannot be Irish. Still might adopt them as my favourite Argentine team.
Quote from: In hiding on May 27, 2026, 07:16:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 06:51:42 PMDon't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
No one cares about you ffin friends son.
I checked Wikipedia and it doesn't mention him at all.
Some lads post some sh*t on here.
Seriously would make you explode
🤣🤣🤣🤣 Cheers mate
Netherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 08:04:16 PMQuote from: In hiding on May 27, 2026, 07:16:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 06:51:42 PMDon't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
No one cares about you ffin friends son.
I checked Wikipedia and it doesn't mention him at all.
Some lads post some sh*t on here.
Seriously would make you explode
🤣🤣🤣🤣 Cheers mate
Poor oul Jabba, just trying to be a nice fella and gets dragged into the mess ;D
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 27, 2026, 08:12:08 PMNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
No Frimpong. Obviouslydidn't have a great season with Liverpool but would've thought a good option off the bench with his pace late in a game
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 08:04:16 PMQuote from: In hiding on May 27, 2026, 07:16:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 06:51:42 PMDon't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
No one cares about you ffin friends son.
I checked Wikipedia and it doesn't mention him at all.
Some lads post some sh*t on here.
Seriously would make you explode
🤣🤣🤣🤣 Cheers mate
😆 sometimes the ironing gets lost in translation
Quote from: In hiding on May 27, 2026, 09:15:01 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 08:04:16 PMQuote from: In hiding on May 27, 2026, 07:16:53 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 06:51:42 PMDon't want to be part of a pile on Gallsman but you do come across as a bit (very) angry at times, a few are on about this Argentinian crisis a few are talking in general.
Peace and love
Now what about my old friends goalkeeping son 🤓🙌😄
No one cares about you ffin friends son.
I checked Wikipedia and it doesn't mention him at all.
Some lads post some sh*t on here.
Seriously would make you explode
🤣🤣🤣🤣 Cheers mate
😆 sometimes the ironing gets lost in translation
Forgive me. It's the heat 😄
Quote from: gawa316 on May 27, 2026, 08:38:57 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on May 27, 2026, 08:12:08 PMNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
No Frimpong. Obviouslydidn't have a great season with Liverpool but would've thought a good option off the bench with his pace late in a game
Yeah, though they good options at full back. He might have got the nod over Hato as a back up.
Next thing Gallsman will be on to tell us Alexis MacAllister isn't from Cushendall...
Quote from: SaffronSports on May 28, 2026, 12:19:50 AMNext thing Gallsman will be on to tell us Alexis MacAllister isn't from Cushendall...
He's actually from Glenariffe lol
Quote from: rodney trotter on May 27, 2026, 08:12:08 PMNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 03:58:38 PMHoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Get up out of that with your anglicised talk.
They're the Islas Malvinas.
Quote from: johnnycool on May 28, 2026, 09:51:25 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 03:58:38 PMHoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Get up out of that with your anglicised talk.
They're the Islas Malvinas.
Ok Jonny. Be cool 😄
QuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 28, 2026, 10:07:24 AMQuote from: johnnycool on May 28, 2026, 09:51:25 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 03:58:38 PMHoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Get up out of that with your anglicised talk.
They're the Islas Malvinas.
Ok Jonny. Be cool 😄
He can't help it now that there's another Kilrea man playing for OWC.
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Depay and Weghorst were two years younger at that stage and they had Simons available who would probably have started.
Quote from: statto on May 28, 2026, 10:36:29 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Depay and Weghorst were two years younger at that stage and they had Simons available who would probably have started.
In 2002? :D
Quote from: statto on May 28, 2026, 10:36:29 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Depay and Weghorst were two years younger at that stage and they had Simons available who would probably have started.
Just play Virgil in attack, he's no worse that some and can't be arsed defending these days.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 28, 2026, 11:15:28 AMQuote from: oakleafgael on May 28, 2026, 10:21:18 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 28, 2026, 10:07:24 AMQuote from: johnnycool on May 28, 2026, 09:51:25 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 03:58:38 PMHoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Get up out of that with your anglicised talk.
They're the Islas Malvinas.
Ok Jonny. Be cool 😄
He can't help it now that there's another Kilrea man playing for OWC.
🤣🤣 Good point well made
I hope he's learned the words to GSTK ;)
Quote from: johnnycool on May 28, 2026, 11:31:04 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 28, 2026, 11:15:28 AMQuote from: oakleafgael on May 28, 2026, 10:21:18 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 28, 2026, 10:07:24 AMQuote from: johnnycool on May 28, 2026, 09:51:25 AMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on May 27, 2026, 03:58:38 PMHoping we do the Falklands tomorrow
Get up out of that with your anglicised talk.
They're the Islas Malvinas.
Ok Jonny. Be cool 😄
He can't help it now that there's another Kilrea man playing for OWC.
🤣🤣 Good point well made
I hope he's learned the words to GSTK ;)
Part of our Primary School curriculum tbh 😄
Quote from: Armagh18 on May 28, 2026, 10:38:29 AMQuote from: statto on May 28, 2026, 10:36:29 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Depay and Weghorst were two years younger at that stage and they had Simons available who would probably have started.
In 2002? :D
:) would need to read before typing!
Quote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Patrick Kluivert, Van Nistelrooy, Hasselbaink, Overmars and Roy Makaay worse than that lot?
Quote from: square_ball on May 28, 2026, 08:28:20 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Patrick Kluivert, Van Nistelrooy, Hasselbaink, Overmars and Roy Makaay worse than that lot?
The dutch of course were not at the 2002 world cup. We were there instead.
Quote from: Capt Pat on May 28, 2026, 08:47:17 PMQuote from: square_ball on May 28, 2026, 08:28:20 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on May 28, 2026, 10:18:54 AMQuoteQuoteNetherlands World Cup squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Bayer Leverkusen), Robin Roefs (Sunderland)
Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan), Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion), Jurrien Timber (Arsenal), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona), Teun Koopmeiners (Juventus), Noah Lang (Galatasaray), Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City), Marten de Roon (Atalanta), Guus Til (PSV), Quinten Timber (Marseille), Mats Wieffer (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Forwards: Brian Brobbey (Sunderland), Memphis Depay (Corinthians), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Donyell Malen (AS Roma), Crysencio Summerville (West Ham United), Wout Weghorst (Ajax.
Certainly the most underwhelming Dutch attack to go to a World Cup in my lifetime.
The Dutch attack at the 2002 World Cup was a lot worse
Patrick Kluivert, Van Nistelrooy, Hasselbaink, Overmars and Roy Makaay worse than that lot?
The dutch of course were not at the 2002 world cup. We were there instead.
Correct 8)
I'm completely lost about this Dutch thing. Not one bit of it makes any sense
They had one of the best forward lines in world football. Dont forget about Pierre Van Hooijdonk either. We had ROY
Quote from: Capt Pat on May 28, 2026, 08:47:17 PMThe dutch of course were not at the 2002 world cup. We were there instead.
If only Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink had been fed cheese sandwiches like the men of Eire
The greatest trick the FAI ever pulled was convincing the world they didn't have a plan
Still the one that got away
Hasselbaink got 27 Caps. He probaly would have had a lot more with other countries. They had some options in attack.
The Kluivert/Van Nistelrooy comparison is an interesting timeline
Born on the same day, Kluivert burst on the scene scoring in the CL final at 18 and leading the line for the Dutch in Euro 96 and France 98 while RVN was struggling to break through at provincial level as a midfielder
01/02 RVN was the coming man, by 03/04 Kluivert was washed up while Ruud got his runout for Real and an Indian summer in Germany
Aye something amiss the Dutch don't have any interesting forward players in the current setup
As for Italy, kinda fubar whats gone on there, their last WC game being 2014
Quote from: tiempo on May 29, 2026, 09:45:10 AMThe Kluivert/Van Nistelrooy comparison is an interesting timeline
Born on the same day, Kluivert burst on the scene scoring in the CL final at 18 and leading the line for the Dutch in Euro 96 and France 98 while RVN was struggling to break through at provincial level as a midfielder
01/02 RVN was the coming man, by 03/04 Kluivert was washed up while Ruud got his runout for Real and an Indian summer in Germany
Aye something amiss the Dutch don't have any interesting forward players in the current setup
As for Italy, kinda fubar whats gone on there, their last WC game being 2014
Was there not something about Kluivert and a car crash back in the day?
Did he kill someone? (edit, he did when he was only 19 and got off with community service)
I think there was another pretty big scandal with him too IIRC.
Argentina's final squad
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa), Gerónimo Rulli (Olympique de Marseille), Juan Musso (Atlético de Madrid)
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), Nahuel Molina (Atlético de Madrid), Lisandro Martínez (Manchester United), Nicolás Otamendi (SL Benfica), Leonardo Balerdi (Olympique de Marseille), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur), Facundo Medina (Olympique de Marseille), Nicolás Tagliafico (Olympique Lyonnais)
Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Boca Juniors), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen), Enzo Fernández (Chelsea), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis), Valentín Barco (RC Strasbourg)
Forwards: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nicolás Paz (Como 1907), Thiago Almada (Atlético de Madrid), Nicolás González (Atlético de Madrid), Giuliano Simeone (Atlético de Madrid), Lautaro Martínez (Internazionale), José Manuel López (Palmeiras), Julián Álvarez (Atlético de Madrid)
Charging that much for group games :o
(https://i.ibb.co/qY9Q47rX/HJaqu-A0ag-AA0j3-Q.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0yZbWmG8)
Jonathan Ross and Cardinal O'Faidgh came to me in a dream last night, and well anyway - I have a tenner on England Armagh double this summer at 37-1.
Irish kick off times.
QuoteThursday 11th June
20:00 Mexico v South Africa
Friday 12th June:
03:00 - South Korea vs Czechia
20:00 - Canada vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
Saturday 13th June:
02:00 - USA vs Paraguay
20:00 - Qatar vs Switzerland
23:00 - Brazil vs Morocco
Sunday 14th June:
02:00 - Haiti vs Scotland
05:00 - Australia vs Turkey
18:00 - Germany vs Curaçao
21:00 - Netherlands vs Japan
Monday 15th June:
00:00 - Ivory Coast vs Ecuador
03:00 - Sweden vs Tunisia
17:00 - Spain vs Cape Verde
20:00 - Belgium vs Egypt
23:00 - Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay
Tuesday 16th June:
02:00 - Iran vs New Zealand
20:00 - France vs Senegal
23:00 - Iraq vs Norway
Wednesday 17th June:
02:00 - Argentina vs Algeria
05:00 - Austria vs Jordan
18:00 - Portugal vs DR Congo
21:00 - England vs Croatia
Thursday 18th June:
00:00 - Ghana vs Panama
03:00 - Uzbekistan vs Colombia
17:00 - Czechia vs South Africa
20:00 - Switzerland vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
23:00 - Canada vs Qatar
Friday 19th June:
02:00 - Mexico vs South Korea
20:00 - USA vs Australia
23:00 - Scotland vs Morocco
Saturday 20th June:
01:30 - Brazil vs Haiti
04:00 - Turkey vs Paraguay
18:00 - Netherlands vs Sweden
21:00 - Germany vs Ivory Coast
Sunday 21st June:
01:00 - Ecuador vs Curaçao
05:00 - Tunisia vs Japan
17:00 - Spain vs Saudi Arabia
20:00 - Belgium vs Iran
23:00 - Uruguay vs Cape Verde
Monday 22nd June:
02:00 - New Zealand vs Egypt
18:00 - Argentina vs Austria
22:00 - France vs Iraq
Tuesday 23rd June:
01:00 - Norway vs Senegal
04:00 - Jordan vs Algeria
18:00 - Portugal vs Uzbekistan
21:00 - England vs Ghana
Wednesday 24th June:
00:00 - Panama vs Croatia
03:00 - Colombia vs DR Congo
20:00 - Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Qatar
20:00 - Switzerland vs Canada
23:00 - Morocco vs Haiti
23:00 - Scotland vs Brazil
Thursday 25th June:
02:00 - Czechia vs Mexico
02:00 - South Africa vs South Korea
21:00 - Curaçao vs Ivory Coast
21:00 - Ecuador vs Germany
Friday 26th June:
00:00 - Japan vs Sweden
00:00 - Tunisia vs Netherlands
03:00 - Paraguay vs Australia
03:00 - Turkey vs USA
20:00 - Norway vs France
20:00 - Senegal vs Iraq
Saturday 27th June:
01:00 - Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia
01:00 - Uruguay vs Spain
04:00 - Egypt vs Iran
04:00 - New Zealand vs Belgium
22:00 - Croatia vs Ghana
22:00 - Panama vs England
Sunday 28th June:
00:30 - Colombia vs Portugal
00:30 - DR Congo vs Uzbekistan
03:00 - Algeria vs Austria
03:00 - Jordan vs Argentina
20:00 - Round of 32
Monday 29th June:
18:00 - Round of 32
21:30 - Round of 32
Tuesday 30th June:
02:00 - Round of 32
18:00 - Round of 32
22:00 - Round of 32
Wednesday 1st July:
02:00 - Round of 32
17:00 - Round of 32
21:00 - Round of 32
Thursday 2nd July:
01:00 - Round of 32
20:00 - Round of 32
Friday 3rd July:
00:00 - Round of 32
04:00 - Round of 32
19:00 - Round of 32
23:00 - Round of 32
Saturday 4th July:
02:30 - Round of 32
18:00 - Round of 16
22:00 - Round of 16
Sunday 5th July:
21:00 - Round of 16
Monday 6th July:
01:00 - Round of 16
20:00 - Round of 16
Tuesday 7th July:
01:00 - Round of 16
17:00 - Round of 16
21:00 - Round of 16
Thursday 9th July:
21:00 - Quarter Final
Friday 10th July:
20:00 - Quarter Final
Saturday 11th July:
22:00 - Quarter Final
Sunday 12th July:
02:00 - Quarter Final
Tuesday 14th July:
20:00 - Semi Final
Wednesday 15th July:
20:00 - Semi Final
Saturday 18th July:
22:00 - Third Place Play Off
Sunday 19th July:
20:00 - Final
All games live on RTÉ
Seeing a list that long is just another reminder that our festival of football has become a festival of greed, with football providing the window dressing.
I see FIFA has this week banned anyone from bringing water bottles into any stadium. They're citing player safety from missiles as their reason.
Saudi, Qatar, Russia, USA and FIFA, they're all in it together, determined to f**k everybody and everything in pursuit of another billion.
QuoteSunday 28th June:
20:00 - Round of 32
When I might start watching or paying much attention.
Quote from: thewobbler on June 04, 2026, 11:25:46 PMSeeing a list that long is just another reminder that our festival of football has become a festival of greed, with football providing the window dressing.
I see FIFA has this week banned anyone from bringing water bottles into any stadium. They're citing player safety from missiles as their reason.
Saudi, Qatar, Russia, USA and FIFA, they're all in it together, determined to f**k everybody and everything in pursuit of another billion.
Hard to argue with that. The 16 extra teams and extra round dilutes the product and leads to saturation - that said, it's amazing for the likes of cape Verde and curacao to get their to the big stage!
Re the water situation, it's similar to most stadia to some degree and the same rationale is always applied. That said, I see more and more venues are now providing free refill facilities as part of their sustainability credentials. You'd hope (but suspect they don't) that venues have will have such facilities.
Quote from: onefineday on June 05, 2026, 01:39:27 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 04, 2026, 11:25:46 PMSeeing a list that long is just another reminder that our festival of football has become a festival of greed, with football providing the window dressing.
I see FIFA has this week banned anyone from bringing water bottles into any stadium. They're citing player safety from missiles as their reason.
Saudi, Qatar, Russia, USA and FIFA, they're all in it together, determined to f**k everybody and everything in pursuit of another billion.
Hard to argue with that. The 16 extra teams and extra round dilutes the product and leads to saturation - that said, it's amazing for the likes of cape Verde and curacao to get their to the big stage!
Re the water situation, it's similar to most stadia to some degree and the same rationale is always applied. That said, I see more and more venues are now providing free refill facilities as part of their sustainability credentials. You'd hope (but suspect they don't) that venues have will have such facilities.
Makes you wonder how Barca fans where able to bring a Pigs head into the stadium to throw at Figo!
Sunday 12th July:
02:00 - Quarter Final
What a stupid time to put a 1/4 final on at.
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 05, 2026, 09:43:46 AMSunday 12th July:
02:00 - Quarter Final
What a stupid time to put a 1/4 final on at.
Would you not be up getting the buckfast inta ye for the trip to Scarva.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cy828v7r5ydo
Quote from: snoopdog on June 05, 2026, 10:11:28 AMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 05, 2026, 09:43:46 AMSunday 12th July:
02:00 - Quarter Final
What a stupid time to put a 1/4 final on at.
Would you not be up getting the buckfast inta ye for the trip to Scarva.
Got lost once trying to find Aghadergs pitch and ended up in Scarva.. I don't think I'd be too welcome there that night 😂
Have zero excitement in the build-up to this. I'm sure I'll watch all of the business end of it but there is some dross to get through before that. We'll also have to look at Infantino snuggling up to Trump for a few weeks. >:(
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 04, 2026, 11:36:55 PMQuoteSunday 28th June:
20:00 - Round of 32
When I might start watching or paying much attention.
Same here.
Quote from: johnnycool on June 05, 2026, 02:02:12 PMQuote from: Captain Obvious on June 04, 2026, 11:36:55 PMQuoteSunday 28th June:
20:00 - Round of 32
When I might start watching or paying much attention.
Same here.
Nearly 3 weeks deep to get to that point!
Quote from: statto on June 05, 2026, 09:24:34 AMQuote from: onefineday on June 05, 2026, 01:39:27 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 04, 2026, 11:25:46 PMSeeing a list that long is just another reminder that our festival of football has become a festival of greed, with football providing the window dressing.
I see FIFA has this week banned anyone from bringing water bottles into any stadium. They're citing player safety from missiles as their reason.
Saudi, Qatar, Russia, USA and FIFA, they're all in it together, determined to f**k everybody and everything in pursuit of another billion.
Hard to argue with that. The 16 extra teams and extra round dilutes the product and leads to saturation - that said, it's amazing for the likes of cape Verde and curacao to get their to the big stage!
Re the water situation, it's similar to most stadia to some degree and the same rationale is always applied. That said, I see more and more venues are now providing free refill facilities as part of their sustainability credentials. You'd hope (but suspect they don't) that venues have will have such facilities.
Makes you wonder how Barca fans where able to bring a Pigs head into the stadium to throw at Figo!
In a drum apparantly
Inter fans throwing the moped in the San Siri 25 years ago would be hard to top.
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13551756/christian-eriksen-denmark-friendly-with-ukraine-abandoned-after-midfielder-collapses-on-pitch
Hope he is ok.
Quote from: tyroneStatto on June 07, 2026, 07:45:01 PMhttps://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13551756/christian-eriksen-denmark-friendly-with-ukraine-abandoned-after-midfielder-collapses-on-pitch
Hope he is ok.
Danish FA put out a statement saying he's awake and responsive - Looked to grab his chest before he went down.
That will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
Quote from: smort on June 07, 2026, 08:14:07 PMThat will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
How do you insure him?
Two heart attacks, time to quit.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 07, 2026, 08:43:51 PMQuote from: smort on June 07, 2026, 08:14:07 PMThat will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
How do you insure him?
Two heart attacks, time to quit.
How does that happen?
Quote from: marty34 on June 07, 2026, 09:11:35 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 07, 2026, 08:43:51 PMQuote from: smort on June 07, 2026, 08:14:07 PMThat will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
How do you insure him?
Two heart attacks, time to quit.
How does that happen?
Reading the updates looks like he went into some type of arrhythmia then his ICD kicked in (hence the clutching of the chest).
Good that the ICD done its job. Probably would have went into cardiac arrest without it
Quote from: marty34 on June 07, 2026, 09:11:35 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 07, 2026, 08:43:51 PMQuote from: smort on June 07, 2026, 08:14:07 PMThat will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
How do you insure him?
Two heart attacks, time to quit.
How does that happen?
Heart attacks?
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 07, 2026, 09:55:32 PMQuote from: marty34 on June 07, 2026, 09:11:35 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 07, 2026, 08:43:51 PMQuote from: smort on June 07, 2026, 08:14:07 PMThat will have to be him retired now, he can't put his family, teammates, and supporters through that again
I know he is supposedly safer with whatever device he has implanted, but don't think he should continue
How do you insure him?
Two heart attacks, time to quit.
How does that happen?
Heart attacks?
No. Twice in a short space of time.
His exact condition may not even be known to doctors despite testing but maybe genetic.
I have a type of heart block* common in athletes with high vagal tone.
*its a funny term as its nothing to do with blockage. Just electrical timing.
For anyone who did Biology to A Level/beyond. This guy did much more than the famous fibres
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_Evangelista_Purkyn%C4%9B
I'm psyched. Anyone else staying up next Monday night for Iran v New Zealand at 2am? Maybe Austria v Jordan the following day at 5am?
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 09, 2026, 09:41:14 AMI'm psyched. Anyone else staying up next Monday night for Iran v New Zealand at 2am? Maybe Austria v Jordan the following day at 5am?
Probably too big to fit on a wall planner like we had as young fellas!
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 09, 2026, 01:23:44 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on June 09, 2026, 09:41:14 AMI'm psyched. Anyone else staying up next Monday night for Iran v New Zealand at 2am? Maybe Austria v Jordan the following day at 5am?
Probably too big to fit on a wall planner like we had as young fellas!
Do Paninininini still do the sticker albums and the packs of stickers for each team.
It'd be like a small encyclopedia for this one.
Quote from: johnnycool on June 09, 2026, 02:56:29 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 09, 2026, 01:23:44 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on June 09, 2026, 09:41:14 AMI'm psyched. Anyone else staying up next Monday night for Iran v New Zealand at 2am? Maybe Austria v Jordan the following day at 5am?
Probably too big to fit on a wall planner like we had as young fellas!
Do Paninininini still do the sticker albums and the packs of stickers for each team.
It'd be like a small encyclopedia for this one.
The young lad has got a couple of packets but I'd say about 90% of the players he got I had never heard tell of.
Yes and they cost a bloody fortune >:(
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 09, 2026, 03:10:16 PMYes and they cost a bloody fortune >:(
Something like 6 grand if you do it without swaps
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 09, 2026, 03:10:51 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on June 09, 2026, 03:10:16 PMYes and they cost a bloody fortune >:(
Something like 6 grand if you do it without swaps
Say what?
You'd be cheaper flying over and taking pictures of them all.
Maybe not...
I remember my Dad talking about staying up late during Argentina '78 to watch games.
I expect I'll be fairly reliant on highlights packages for the early games. I just can't foresee having the stamina on work-nights for 3am game.
With more teams this time uou will probably still see the same amount of games as any other wc.
Always the option at weekends to watch the highlights or full game in the morning
I saw this on Instagram and can't get my head around the sheer delight in getting ripped off for Nicks tickets.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZYI7Njo7_B/?igsh=MTI1dmcwM2xrMGtwZQ==
It's the USA, so I'm RICH is an actual personality.
Thats why they cant understand regular soccer supporters giving out.
Messi has been playing so long that now he's playing against the youngest son of a former playmate.
Messi and Gudjonsen (https://x.com/TheAngryEuroLad/status/2064552678135345348/video/1)
Ronaldo has played the last two friendlies, so looks like he'll be starting the group games.
That's Portugal's chances of winning it gone.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 10, 2026, 09:39:37 PMRonaldo has played the last two friendlies, so looks like he'll be starting the group games.
That's Portugal's chances of winning it gone.
Watched the Nigeria match.. Junior Bs look more agile than he did
A tough start for the beer world cup. Drink beer from one or both countries. If none available, the host nation will have to do.
Mexico v South Africa is straightforward. Modelo in Supervalue. Corona for herself.
The Czechs is easy, but 3am... Any Korean suggestions for later?
Canada v Bosnia, tricky but not impossible in Labatts.
US v Paraguay, options there, some good Murican crafts out there.
Qatar v Switzerland- impossible.
Brazil v Morocco difficult but possible.
Haiti v Scotland and Australia v Turky, timed out but not much quality.
Germany v Curacao is a masterclass.
Netherlands v Japan is a straightforward one. H bombs and Ashai.
I'll keep you all posted.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 11:13:59 AMA tough start for the beer world cup. Drink beer from one or both countries. If none available, the host nation will have to do.
Mexico v South Africa is straightforward. Modelo in Supervalue. Corona for herself.
The Czechs is easy, but 3am... Any Korean suggestions for later?
Canada v Bosnia, tricky but not impossible in Labatts.
US v Paraguay, options there, some good Murican crafts out there.
Qatar v Switzerland- impossible.
Brazil v Morocco difficult but possible.
Haiti v Scotland and Australia v Turky, timed out but not much quality.
Germany v Curacao is a masterclass.
Netherlands v Japan is a straightforward one. H bombs and Ashai.
I'll keep you all posted.
Tennents Super for Scotland. Just the one mind :o
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 11:13:59 AMA tough start for the beer world cup. Drink beer from one or both countries. If none available, the host nation will have to do.
Mexico v South Africa is straightforward. Modelo in Supervalue. Corona for herself.
The Czechs is easy, but 3am... Any Korean suggestions for later?
Canada v Bosnia, tricky but not impossible in Labatts.
US v Paraguay, options there, some good Murican crafts out there.
Qatar v Switzerland- impossible.
Brazil v Morocco difficult but possible.
Haiti v Scotland and Australia v Turky, timed out but not much quality.
Germany v Curacao is a masterclass.
Netherlands v Japan is a straightforward one. H bombs and Ashai.
I'll keep you all posted.
(https://i.ibb.co/FbrFTnQj/Screenshot-20260608-211644-Facebook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6RMkCNKf)
My word. That man is my hero.
The Azteca is unreal!
Should be 3-0 already.
South Africa are awful, I would have fancied our chances against them.
Quote from: mauricemoss on June 11, 2026, 08:30:50 PMThe Azteca is unreal!
What happened to the big spider over the centre circle?
Var is going completely ruin this world cup ridiculous decision. Then some eejit yank woman who no one heard of on itv says it's a read and violent conduct.
Jesus soccer is such shite. Mexican lad backs into south African to block him, south African tries to get past and his arm slightly brushes against his head - VAR red card to south African. Joke of a game
On this performance I reckon Africa should get 10 places at the next world cup ;D
There'll be a record number of red cards this World Cup if that's the threshold for a red.
Quote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 09:53:55 PMThere'll be a record number of red cards this World Cup if that's the threshold for a red.
If they're giving red cards for that, that's the world cup over for me
Not that I was looking forward to it too much anyway
Don't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
Ridiculous red. That's a yellow all day long.
Quote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 09:53:55 PMThere'll be a record number of red cards this World Cup if that's the threshold for a red.
You were saying..
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
You won't be alone in your thinking.
Referee has lost it here.
Two farcical Reds.
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
Quote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
Quote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
Yes, and that's only the Ballymena Saturday morning league you're talking about here.
Its a pity Apres Match are not on the go anymore
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 10:13:56 PMQuote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
An to return to one of my perennial problems with association football?
Is a game without physical contact really the game we want to see? ie by making physical contact such a risky undertaking, that it becomes all but removed?
I can only speak for myself here. And the answer is no.
Quote from: thewobbler on June 11, 2026, 11:34:25 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 10:13:56 PMQuote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
An to return to one of my perennial problems with association football?
Is a game without physical contact really the game we want to see? ie by making physical contact such a risky undertaking, that it becomes all but removed?
I can only speak for myself here. And the answer is no.
I bet Baile Brigin is one of these fellas that's says 'there's contact so he's entitled to go down' when a super slow motion relay shows someone touched someone with their fingernail in the penalty box.
It is more or less a non-contact sport now unfortunately.
Quote from: square_ball on June 12, 2026, 07:51:59 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 11, 2026, 11:34:25 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 10:13:56 PMQuote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
An to return to one of my perennial problems with association football?
Is a game without physical contact really the game we want to see? ie by making physical contact such a risky undertaking, that it becomes all but removed?
I can only speak for myself here. And the answer is no.
I bet Baile Brigin is one of these fellas that's says 'there's contact so he's entitled to go down' when a super slow motion relay shows someone touched someone with their fingernail in the penalty box.
It is more or less a non-contact sport now unfortunately.
Gone to f**k. Football going the same way in a lot of cases, ref dependent
Quote from: square_ball on June 12, 2026, 07:51:59 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 11, 2026, 11:34:25 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 10:13:56 PMQuote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
An to return to one of my perennial problems with association football?
Is a game without physical contact really the game we want to see? ie by making physical contact such a risky undertaking, that it becomes all but removed?
I can only speak for myself here. And the answer is no.
I bet Baile Brigin is one of these fellas that's says 'there's contact so he's entitled to go down' when a super slow motion relay shows someone touched someone with their fingernail in the penalty box.
It is more or less a non-contact sport now unfortunately.
Hold up.
The guy threw a slap. Not a haymaker, but a slap. That's a red card in football too.
How did you jump there?
Quote from: thewobbler on June 11, 2026, 11:34:25 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 11, 2026, 10:13:56 PMQuote from: square_ball on June 11, 2026, 10:05:49 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 11, 2026, 09:59:20 PMDon't think the 2nd/3rd reds where reds imo
I think if nothing was given for the 2nd red card and a yellow instead of the 3rd red card no one would have batted an eyelid.
But they were.
A slap is a slap and he did it right in front of the ref.
I assume the third was the strength of the contact as opposed to dogso
An to return to one of my perennial problems with association football?
Is a game without physical contact really the game we want to see? ie by making physical contact such a risky undertaking, that it becomes all but removed?
I can only speak for myself here. And the answer is no.
Which one are we talking about?
There is a big difference between saying the game is gone soft and saying the referee should ignore a slap thrown 10 feet in front of him...
QuoteAssociations are fined 10,000 US dollars for a yellow card at this World Cup. 20,000 for a straight red and 15,000 for a red after two yellows. On the evidence of this opener, a lot of the increased prizemoney is going to be redistributed.
A Daniel McDonnell tweet. Surely this can't be true??
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 12, 2026, 11:55:20 AMQuoteAssociations are fined 10,000 US dollars for a yellow card at this World Cup. 20,000 for a straight red and 15,000 for a red after two yellows. On the evidence of this opener, a lot of the increased prizemoney is going to be redistributed.
A Daniel McDonnell tweet. Surely this can't be true??
Teams at any adult level are fined for cards. Seems steep but possible
It's friday.
Soccerball (https://x.com/Criminalsimpson/status/2065100528703451362/video/1)
My alter ego looks bored with this one
Canada should stick with the ice hockey
Two brutal teams already and we're only three matches in. And judging by the highlights, the Czechs were brutal this morning
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 12, 2026, 08:58:08 PMMy alter ego looks bored with this one
Canada should stick with the ice hockey
Two brutal teams already and we're only three matches in. And judging by the highlights, the Czechs were brutal this morning
Your fella Miller looks lively but other than that it's all a bit lacking in quality
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 12, 2026, 08:58:08 PMMy alter ego looks bored with this one
Canada should stick with the ice hockey
Two brutal teams already and we're only three matches in. And judging by the highlights, the Czechs were brutal this morning
The Bosnian fan they showed a couple of times in the Bosnian flag bikini top has been the highlight of the game.
Quote from: laoislad on June 12, 2026, 09:26:32 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 12, 2026, 08:58:08 PMMy alter ego looks bored with this one
Canada should stick with the ice hockey
Two brutal teams already and we're only three matches in. And judging by the highlights, the Czechs were brutal this morning
The Bosnian fan they showed a couple of times in the Bosnian flag bikini top has been the highlight of the game.
Hot women supporters, the one last remaining positive for the World cup
Italians must be embarrassed to have been beaten by Bosnia. Committed is about as good as you could say.
The clock is almost dead and the Canadian defenders are passing around to each other in the centre of the pitch instead of lumping it into the box ffs
Zlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
Quote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Quote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He is a tool for sure.
Quote from: gawa316 on June 12, 2026, 11:33:08 PMQuote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Close. Full kit w**ker.
USA look very very good.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 13, 2026, 10:04:54 AMQuote from: gawa316 on June 12, 2026, 11:33:08 PMQuote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Close. Full kit w**ker.
What was the context of the question? Why did James Cordon come up?
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 13, 2026, 10:10:05 AMUSA look very very good.
Only team so far that have excelled
Swiss miles ahead in terms of ability vs Qatar.
Hoping Brazil v Morocco will be a good game
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 13, 2026, 08:28:37 PMSwiss miles ahead in terms of ability vs Qatar.
Hoping Brazil v Morocco will be a good game
Qatar look naive at the back, but they're lively enough going forward.
Fancy tech or not, definitely looked like an offside before the penalty.
A lot of empty seats at Swiss/Qatari game. Atmosphere dead. You can hear the players shouting instructions to each other. It's like an underage tournament feel.
Are the Swiss playing in the same strip as Saudi Arabia from USA 1994?
Quote from: From the Bunker on June 13, 2026, 09:17:21 PMA lot of empty seats at Swiss/Qatari game. Atmosphere dead. You can hear the players shouting instructions to each other. It's like an underage tournament feel.
Turned it over there to watch something completely different. Absolute rubbish. Hopefully Brazil and Morocco is better.
Quote from: From the Bunker on June 13, 2026, 09:17:21 PMA lot of empty seats at Swiss/Qatari game. Atmosphere dead. You can hear the players shouting instructions to each other. It's like an underage tournament feel.
I live close to the stadium, lots of people trying to sell tickets all week here but still mad prices. Don't have a lot of interest in this game but said I'd check to see if I could get a couple of tickets this morning, $350 and up for them. 💩 game, 💩 stadium for this heat (32C). Glad I didn't go.
The majority of the games in the group stages are poor at best. 48 teams is too much, complete money grabbing exercise.
The Swiss defence is like their cheese
If I was Swiss I would be raging should have been out of sight the tits
Absolute shite. This tournament will be no good for probably a fortnight yet.
Could the Qataris be more acclimated to the heat? That Levi's stadium is a notorious cauldron. Seemed like some of those Swiss lads, particularly the keeper, were suffering towards the end. Qatar were crap for most of the match, but started looking more dangerous towards the end. I had a funny feeling they might sneak something in. Wasn't expecting them to leave it that late though.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 13, 2026, 10:05:40 PMAbsolute shite. This tournament will be no good for probably a fortnight yet.
Round of 32 on 28th June. Will dip into the odd game between now and then but there is some shite to wade through. Imagine what it could be like in 2030 with 64 teams. FIFA greed putting quantity over quality.
Good start to this Brazil game... what a brilliant goal from Morocco!!!
Well this Brazil team won't do much getting torn apart here
Good timing ;D
Long gone are the days when you tuned in to the WC to discover lethal players you'd never heard of.
Brazil's striker plays for Brentford.
Brazil have been
Quote from: ONeill on June 13, 2026, 11:39:29 PMLong gone are the days when you tuned in to the WC to discover lethal players you'd never heard of.
Brazil's striker plays for Brentford.
And a Bournemouth player as his back up.
Can't see Brazil being a contender.
Since 2002, they have been knocked out by 5 different European teams; France, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Croatia.
Scotland will send them packing this time in the final group game
Actually a good game!
My uncle was telling me that it's a little known fact that Garrincha won a MacRory Cup runners up medal in 1955 with St Malachys.
Why are soccer referees so dramatic in what they do? Screams attention seeking or insecurity. Just ref the game and stop trying to be noticed
Only caught the 2nd half of the Brazil game. Awful
Supposedly 2 of the better sides too.
In terms of flair, that's got to be the worse Brazil team ever.
1st half was good.
Lovely goal from Australia.
Been a decent game so far
Quote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 05:29:08 AMLovely goal from Australia.
Been a decent game so far
No lie-in in the Laoislad house?
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 05:53:48 AMQuote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 05:29:08 AMLovely goal from Australia.
Been a decent game so far
No lie-in in the Laoislad house?
Lie ins are for softies.
Good win for Australia. Their goalie made some crucial saves but Turkey were disappointing overall really.
Quote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 07:10:17 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 05:53:48 AMQuote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 05:29:08 AMLovely goal from Australia.
Been a decent game so far
No lie-in in the Laoislad house?
Lie ins are for softies.
Good win for Australia. Their goalie made some crucial saves but Turkey were disappointing overall really.
I mean it generally is. Mostly about the sides.
Quote from: andoireabu on June 14, 2026, 01:02:24 AMWhy are soccer referees so dramatic in what they do? Screams attention seeking or insecurity. Just ref the game and stop trying to be noticed
David Gough changed jobs?
Scotland are poor. Clinging on against Haiti with every man back. They might regret not getting a few goals as Brazil n Morocco will be looking goals
About to watch the World Cup in the pub when a fella said to me 'I bet you can't name 3 Qatar players'
I replied - Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton....
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on June 14, 2026, 09:11:09 AMAbout to watch the World Cup in the pub when a fella said to me 'I bet you can't name 3 Qatar players'
I replied - Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton....
Dear dear dear ;D
I have only seen highlights so far apart from the Brazil match which I watched live, they were lucky to get a draw against a very good Morocco side. Apart from Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior they look a very average side to be honest.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 09:21:20 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on June 14, 2026, 09:11:09 AMAbout to watch the World Cup in the pub when a fella said to me 'I bet you can't name 3 Qatar players'
I replied - Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton....
Dear dear dear ;D
I've seen ones banned for less
MODS?!?!
See that these water breaks are being used as ad breaks in US. Seen few instances of Assistant refs on Twitter not giving the go ahead to restart the game until broadcasters are back from breaks
Germany looked scintillating at times.
That being said, Curacao looked like a group of well meaning players against a team of elite players, which raises the issue that the expanded World Cup is likely to see some inferior teams on the biggest stage.
This match is the first one of any real interest.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on June 14, 2026, 08:22:21 PMGermany looked scintillating at times.
That being said, Curacao looked like a group of well meaning players against a team of elite players, which raises the issue that the expanded World Cup is likely to see some inferior teams on the biggest stage.
An expanded world cup might have worked if you actually had the top 48 teams but when certain teams almost get a bye to the finals then there is a problem, 6 teams from concacaf are there and another 2 got into a deciding play-off all from a federation that only really has Us and Mexico that can play. NZ pretty much just have to turn up and they are in. Likewise asia and Africa have a load of slots and below the likes of Korea or Morocco it soon gets pretty ropey.
Quote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 07:10:17 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 05:53:48 AMQuote from: laoislad on June 14, 2026, 05:29:08 AMLovely goal from Australia.
Been a decent game so far
No lie-in in the Laoislad house?
Lie ins are for softies.
Good win for Australia. Their goalie made some crucial saves but Turkey were disappointing overall really.
That game reminded me a bit of watching Liverpool last season!
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 14, 2026, 11:11:26 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 09:21:20 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on June 14, 2026, 09:11:09 AMAbout to watch the World Cup in the pub when a fella said to me 'I bet you can't name 3 Qatar players'
I replied - Rory Gallagher, Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton....
Dear dear dear ;D
I've seen ones banned for less
MODS?!?!
He he...
The Dutch are taking their oranje obsession to another level altogether, 10 orange blurs on the pitch
Quote from: Main Street on June 14, 2026, 09:13:31 PMThe Dutch are taking their oranje obsession to another level altogether, 10 orange blurs on the pitch
Thanks for that, didn't even notice until I read your comment now my eyes are fked ;D
The Dutch v Japan has been horrific so far. Snoozefest
Haven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
Nakamura !! the name, the legend lives on.
A game of football might have broke out here
QuoteHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
Ahh , the old Everton midfield - Carsley and Gravesen (ask your granda)
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 14, 2026, 10:23:52 PMA game of football might have broke out here
Looks like it. The Dutch goal looks to have made Japan actually try a bit
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 14, 2026, 10:12:30 PMHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
Obviously a fake picture.
In the end, orange squash.
Leaky defences on show in Dallas
Just like in 63
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 14, 2026, 10:12:30 PMHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
How does he manage to look her in the eye? :o
Quote from: marty34 on June 14, 2026, 11:02:27 PMQuote from: Captain Obvious on June 14, 2026, 10:12:30 PMHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
How does he manage to look her in the eye? :o
She has eyes?
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 14, 2026, 11:07:23 PMQuote from: marty34 on June 14, 2026, 11:02:27 PMQuote from: Captain Obvious on June 14, 2026, 10:12:30 PMHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best coverage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
How does he manage to look her in the eye? :o
She has eyes?
Could have been a Westlife Maria Carey moment
Quote from: Muck Savage on June 13, 2026, 09:58:04 PMQuote from: From the Bunker on June 13, 2026, 09:17:21 PMA lot of empty seats at Swiss/Qatari game. Atmosphere dead. You can hear the players shouting instructions to each other. It's like an underage tournament feel.
I live close to the stadium, lots of people trying to sell tickets all week here but still mad prices. Don't have a lot of interest in this game but said I'd check to see if I could get a couple of tickets this morning, $350 and up for them. 💩 game, 💩 stadium for this heat (32C). Glad I didn't go.
The majority of the games in the group stages are poor at best. 48 teams is too much, complete money grabbing exercise.
Did prices come down at all? Was trying to keep an eye on prices but forgot. No way I'm paying $300 a pop to see the likes of Jordon Algeria
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 13, 2026, 10:04:54 AMQuote from: gawa316 on June 12, 2026, 11:33:08 PMQuote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Close. Full kit w**ker.
Oh yeah that makes more sense :-*
I was wondering why Rebecca Lowe was taking more offense to the word w**ker, than f**king! :D
I'll probably jinx them now but Cape Verde holding out against Spain with an hour gone.
Yer man from Shamrock Rovers playing well.
Spain look very ordinary.
That was emotional lol
That was some defensive performance.
Class. We should have got your man who was born in crumlin ;D
It's strange how even neutrals will celebrate a draw, but that was magic. I was concerned after Curacao yesterday that it would be a turkey shoot today. CV were so solid.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 15, 2026, 06:41:24 PMSpain look very ordinary.
Only caught the 2nd half but it was just pass, pass, pass for 45 minutes. Cape Verde defended brilliantly but Spain weren't exactly banging the door down. Surely they'll improve with Yamal and Williams starting.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 14, 2026, 10:12:30 PMHaven't bothered to watch any of the World Cup so far, apparently German TV has the best cleavage and support so far.
(https://i.ibb.co/ycyZ7LXn/HKp-IWn-GWYAAY3ba.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VcSz5XtW)
Fixed tbat
Thatsvspa
Quote from: square_ball on June 15, 2026, 07:10:22 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 15, 2026, 06:41:24 PMSpain look very ordinary.
Only caught the 2nd half but it was just pass, pass, pass for 45 minutes. Cape Verde defended brilliantly but Spain weren't exactly banging the door down. Surely they'll improve with Yamal and Williams starting.
in
Quote from: square_ball on June 15, 2026, 07:10:22 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 15, 2026, 06:41:24 PMSpain look very ordinary.
Only caught the 2nd half but it was just pass, pass, pass for 45 minutes. Cape Verde defended brilliantly but Spain weren't exactly banging the door down. Surely they'll improve with Yamal and Williams starting.
That's Spain pass until the other team die of boredom. Their match with Morocco last time goes down as one of the worst football games ever
QuoteThatsvspa
QuoteQuoteSpain look very ordinary.
Only caught the 2nd half but it was just pass, pass, pass for 45 minutes. Cape Verde defended brilliantly but Spain weren't exactly banging the door down. Surely they'll improve with Yamal and Williams starting.
in
QuoteQuoteSpain look very ordinary.
Only caught the 2nd half but it was just pass, pass, pass for 45 minutes. Cape Verde defended brilliantly but Spain weren't exactly banging the door down. Surely they'll improve with Yamal and Williams starting.
That's Spain pass until the other team die of boredom. Their match with Morocco last time goes down as one of the worst football games ever
They stank the place out when they won it in 2010
With the introduction of the water breaks, I've noticed that the injury time is generally a minute or two at most, 3 minutes for break and 1 or 2 mins of injury/stoppages
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 15, 2026, 08:49:55 PMWith the introduction of the water breaks, I've noticed that the injury time is generally a minute or two at most, 3 minutes for break and 1 or 2 mins of injury/stoppages
Yeah noticed that too. The Spain match had 5 minutes injury time 3 of which was for the water break and there was a load of subs and Cape Verde were understandably milking every foul and going down for treatment. Probably should be looking at at least 8 minutes injury time in most matches.
But subs have to be of in ten seconds plus they've sped up throws and corners.
Quote from: mrdeeds on June 15, 2026, 11:09:58 PMBut subs have to be of in ten seconds plus they've sped up throws and corners.
I get that but throws and corners never made up stoppages
Injuries goal celebrations have sped up to but one minute seems to be the norm
I like the aesthetics of the stadia and pitch presentation[flags etc] before game. Clean, colourful. Reminds me of a video game.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 15, 2026, 06:41:24 PMSpain look very ordinary.
They are trying to play the same tiki taki of 2008-2012 era without Iniesta and Xavi who could pull it off.
Their attacking talent this time is Williams and Yamal, out wide. As soon as they came on Spain looked better in attack but immediately left gaps at the back.
I know it's early, but they need to fundamentally change their approach to do any damage
Quote from: DaleCooper on June 15, 2026, 11:49:28 PMI like the aesthetics of the stadia and pitch presentation[flags etc] before game. Clean, colourful. Reminds me of a video game.
The whole thing is like a video game, particularly the ref cams....its trying to make it more amenable to the US market but it is demeaning it I feel. All about the razzmatazz!
Saw a goal on highlights where the ref made a very unusual bee line behind the play on the edge of the box, alas the ref cam footage of the goal was half decent, but if thats the mode of thinking and the directive then you'd worry the game is couped
As for Spain, jes they must have been bad to draw that, some buck lost a 6 figure sum on it by all accounts
Ref cam is a potato
Quote from: tiempo on June 16, 2026, 10:28:59 AMSaw a goal on highlights where the ref made a very unusual bee line behind the play on the edge of the box, alas the ref cam footage of the goal was half decent, but if thats the mode of thinking and the directive then you'd worry the game is couped
As for Spain, jes they must have been bad to draw that, some buck lost a 6 figure sum on it by all accounts
7 figure...
Spain will likely still come good I suspect. At least some competitive matches starting to appear.
Tunisia manager sacked. Dunno what they think they'll achieve by that mind you.
Spain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Quote from: gallsman on June 16, 2026, 02:34:20 PMSpain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Especially in the new era of the lucky (3rd) losers
Quote from: NAG1 on June 16, 2026, 03:42:48 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 16, 2026, 02:34:20 PMSpain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Especially in the new era of the lucky (3rd) losers
Are they genuinely going to seperate teams on the same points by the number of yellow and red cards they've received or did I mishear one of the ITV commentators?
Quote from: johnnycool on June 16, 2026, 04:01:59 PMQuote from: NAG1 on June 16, 2026, 03:42:48 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 16, 2026, 02:34:20 PMSpain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Especially in the new era of the lucky (3rd) losers
Are they genuinely going to seperate teams on the same points by the number of yellow and red cards they've received or did I mishear one of the ITV commentators?
I thought I heard that as well, farcical :o
Quote from: NAG1 on June 16, 2026, 04:05:16 PMQuote from: johnnycool on June 16, 2026, 04:01:59 PMQuote from: NAG1 on June 16, 2026, 03:42:48 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 16, 2026, 02:34:20 PMSpain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Especially in the new era of the lucky (3rd) losers
Are they genuinely going to seperate teams on the same points by the number of yellow and red cards they've received or did I mishear one of the ITV commentators?
I thought I heard that as well, farcical :o
Thats been the case for the at least the last few World Cups. After head to head, goal difference and goals scored then its the disciplinary record taken into account. If everything still level after that its the team with the highest ranking that goes through. Not sure what other option they have in tournament football. Toss a coin?
Quote from: johnnycool on June 16, 2026, 04:01:59 PMQuote from: NAG1 on June 16, 2026, 03:42:48 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 16, 2026, 02:34:20 PMSpain lost their opener in 2010 and Argentina lost theirs to Saudi Arabia four years ago.
I'd no go writing off any expected big hitter off the back of a poor result in their opener.
Especially in the new era of the lucky (3rd) losers
Are they genuinely going to seperate teams on the same points by the number of yellow and red cards they've received or did I mishear one of the ITV commentators?
That happened at the last Euros or maybe the last world cup. Can't remember the teams involved though. Could have been one of the Asian teams in Qatar
Edit: it was the in 2018 world cup :
Group H of the 2018 FIFA World Cup took place from 19 to 28 June 2018. The group consisted of Poland, Senegal, Colombia, and Japan. The top two teams, Colombia and Japan, advanced to the round of 16.
For the first time in World Cup history, the "fair play" rule was invoked to break a tie. Japan and Senegal finished with identical scores and goal differences to tie for second behind Colombia. Japan were awarded the place in the round of 16 based on receiving fewer yellow cards in their three matches
Tunisia coach sacked. Can't recall too many going mid tournament...cut throat decision that
French keeper there what an embarrassment.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 16, 2026, 07:40:27 PMTunisia coach sacked. Can't recall too many going mid tournament...cut throat decision that
"Mid" is stetching it! 1 match I think.
France fairly loaded.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 16, 2026, 08:07:16 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 16, 2026, 07:40:27 PMTunisia coach sacked. Can't recall too many going mid tournament...cut throat decision that
"Mid" is stetching it! 1 match I think.
France fairly loaded.
Fairly?! Under exaggerate much?!
*You started it 😝
An underwhelming 1st quarter from France.
I've watched 10 minutes there and the amount of times the Senegalese players are on the deck is going to hurt them
Senegal looking dangerous here. If they beat France it wouldn't be the first time.
Great to see African teams looking strong.
The 4-2-4 not working for France.
Clear penalty
What is going on??!!!
What's the point of VAR if that's not a penalty?
Not often you see a ref stand his ground when told to go to VAR
Having said that he got it wrong lol
Thought the ref was correct there.
Much better from France, the goal has been coming.
I didn't think it was a clear penalty. Could be a moot decision as Mbappe scores, he doesn't even have a bead of sweat on his forehead.
Quote from: Harold Disgracey on June 16, 2026, 09:28:14 PMThought the ref was correct there.
I can see where he was coming from. Mbappe already had him beaten and was looking for it. Made sure he caught him rather than defender clattering into him.
Right or wrong, great to see a ref telling VAR to go f**k
Olise is a lovely player to watch.
France have woken up!
Mbappe getting ready for the Twelfth ?
PS. Never a penalty
They are good.
Incredible finish!
Two great goals in the space of a couple of minutes.
Some game in the end.
A game of two halves. 😌
Olise brought the energy to the start of the second half. Deschamps must have got the halftime hairdryer out.
Jesus, but those animated pen pics (or whatever you call them) are so cringe
An unexpectedly entertaining first half between Iraq and Norway.
This Austria v Katie Price game is very entertaining, some goal just there for Austria just before the end of the first quarter.
Could have had more but he really is still the best player in the world Messi doesn't matter what league he is playing in.. Tied for WC top scorer now.
Quote from: Harold Disgracey on June 16, 2026, 11:53:41 PMAn unexpectedly entertaining first half between Iraq and Norway.
The lad Nusa on the wing looked dangerous. Norway could be a team to cause some problems in the knockouts.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 16, 2026, 10:44:55 PMA game of two halves. 😌
Olise brought the energy to the start of the second half. Deschamps must have got the halftime hairdryer out.
Olise is the main man for this French team, he's the lad sliding the ball through for Mbappe and the likes.
Senegal will have a say further down the line, they're handy enough.
Quote from: johnnycool on June 17, 2026, 08:24:47 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 16, 2026, 10:44:55 PMA game of two halves. 😌
Olise brought the energy to the start of the second half. Deschamps must have got the halftime hairdryer out.
Olise is the main man for this French team, he's the lad sliding the ball through for Mbappe and the likes.
Senegal will have a say further down the line, they're handy enough.
With the format of qualification they may no, they are going to need 4 points from next two games minimum you would think, they should beat Iraq but could easily lose to Norway and be reliant on others. Have good players in attacking areas.
Saw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Quote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Quote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Quote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Ronaldo be desperate to get on the scoresheet tonight to match him! Messi still a class act, Ronaldo was unstoppable in his day but he's not at that level now.
Quote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Good luck to anyone waiting on a pass from Ronaldo tonight!
Quote from: statto on June 17, 2026, 11:34:40 AMQuote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Good luck to anyone waiting on a pass from Ronaldo tonight!
Greedy strikers.. they are certainly a rare breed.. ::)
Quote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:34:34 AMQuote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Ronaldo be desperate to get on the scoresheet tonight to match him! Messi still a class act, Ronaldo was unstoppable in his day but he's not at that level now.
Ronaldo was always the better athlete, but Messi is just a more naturally gifted footballer. Less theatrics with Messi as well - a far more rounded team player who doesn't seek to make every game about him with theatrics.
Quote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:48:02 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:34:34 AMQuote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Ronaldo be desperate to get on the scoresheet tonight to match him! Messi still a class act, Ronaldo was unstoppable in his day but he's not at that level now.
Ronaldo was always the better athlete, but Messi is just a more naturally gifted footballer. Less theatrics with Messi as well - a far more rounded team player who doesn't seek to make every game about him with theatrics.
Brilliant natural skill, amazing he is still doing it on the big stages too at international level.
Though definitely seen a side to him last world cup when they played Poland with him ignoring Lewandowski after the game.. Lose with grace win with grace
Will Modric at 40 play against England. Fair play to these lads still representing their nations and not packing it in early 30s to preserve club career.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:54:22 AMQuote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:48:02 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:34:34 AMQuote from: 93-DY-SAM on June 17, 2026, 11:30:21 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on June 17, 2026, 11:05:31 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:00:49 AMSaw Messi's hat trick on socials this morning, thought it was highlights from a game 7 or 8 years ago, the man is peerless
Seen a few highlights there, man still has it.
Woeful goalkeeping on the first two though!
Aye, the goalkeeper was shocking, but watch Messi's movement off the ball. Classic Messi. Some going to be playing in your 6th WC. There will no doubt be comparisons to a certain Ronaldo later today, but for me, there is only one GOAT (regardless of the game last night).
Ronaldo be desperate to get on the scoresheet tonight to match him! Messi still a class act, Ronaldo was unstoppable in his day but he's not at that level now.
Ronaldo was always the better athlete, but Messi is just a more naturally gifted footballer. Less theatrics with Messi as well - a far more rounded team player who doesn't seek to make every game about him with theatrics.
Brilliant natural skill, amazing he is still doing it on the big stages too at international level.
Though definitely seen a side to him last world cup when they played Poland with him ignoring Lewandowski after the game.. Lose with grace win with grace
That was during the game after Lewandowski fouled him, in the heat of battle. Was good to see instead of all this hugging and cuddling players tend to do nowadays.
This is last hurray for both and here the gap in quality has been increasing incrementally these past 4 years. Messi still has most everything he had whereas Ronaldo is partly running (at cart horse pace) on muscle memory. Maybe age kicks in with a Richter scale effect with Ronaldo being the elder, he has no legs left, his overall play reminds me of a punch drunk Ali after the Thriller in Manila. Possibly Ronaldo would have value as a late sub to save a game, definitely would have a massive distraction effect on a beleaguered defense. But has Martinez the bottle to relegate Ronaldo the icon?
Same in any sport. The ones with the better brains last longer - athleticism wanes quicker.
If Martinez HAS the bottle to do it he would have done it already and sent that text message before the panel was picked..
Ronaldo has come to the end, and this team Portugal have are very good, he could possibly stop/hinder this team from winning.
But I get that stars such as him should get there chance, but I'm talking about the likes of Liam Brady, or Best not getting their chance to have at least one tournament, who got the call to say they aint in the plans for the tournament. Ronnie has had multiple tournaments so he should head off and chill out, eat a nasty burger, miss a gym session or two
Quote from: Main Street on June 17, 2026, 12:34:36 PMBut has Martinez the bottle to relegate Ronaldo the icon?
Of course he doesn't. Martinez is the one who brought him back in the first place. When he was benched for Ramos (correctly) in Qatar that should have been the end of him as an international footballer.
Whether Ronaldo is or was a better "athlete" than Messi is, frankly, meaningless. Messi has been the better footballer, which is what matters, from about 2006, and without doubt from the 08/09 season on. I'm not sure there's anyone who even pretends to dispute this any more.
I think it's more about Instagram and publicity with Ronaldo these days. Crying after missing a penalty during a match springs to mind. He has a career post football to think about though so anything to keep himself in the public eye
I don't see Martinez dropping him though. Which is why I don't see Portugal winning it. They'd go further without him starting
Quote from: gallsman on June 17, 2026, 12:55:03 PMQuote from: Main Street on June 17, 2026, 12:34:36 PMBut has Martinez the bottle to relegate Ronaldo the icon?
Of course he doesn't. Martinez is the one who brought him back in the first place. When he was benched for Ramos (correctly) in Qatar that should have been the end of him as an international footballer.
Whether Ronaldo is or was a better "athlete" than Messi is, frankly, meaningless. Messi has been the better footballer, which is what matters, from about 2006, and without doubt from the 08/09 season on. I'm not sure there's anyone who even pretends to dispute this any more.
Absolutely correct.
Argentina looked set up to get the most out of Messi and he could have scored more last night.
This is Messi's 3rd major tournament on US soil (2 Copa America's) and obviously he has been playing there 3 years too so he will be well used to it.
Re Ronaldo, i dont think ive watched him since last euros so no idea if he still has the ability or not.
There'll defo be one penalty for Ronaldo today. Nearly a 5th of his goals have been pens
Quote from: gallsman on June 17, 2026, 12:55:03 PMQuote from: Main Street on June 17, 2026, 12:34:36 PMBut has Martinez the bottle to relegate Ronaldo the icon?
Of course he doesn't. Martinez is the one who brought him back in the first place. When he was benched for Ramos (correctly) in Qatar that should have been the end of him as an international footballer.
Whether Ronaldo is or was a better "athlete" than Messi is, frankly, meaningless. Messi has been the better footballer, which is what matters, from about 2006, and without doubt from the 08/09 season on. I'm not sure there's anyone who even pretends to dispute this any more.
I was talking about Ronaldo's present day value to the team vis a vis Messi's value to Argentina, not about comparing footballing qualities or merits of each and not least indulging in a meaningless binary debate about who is/ was the better player. And Ronaldo without that athleticism is quite frankly a player who would never ever score 300+ goals for RM, but nevertheless he still retained the knack of scoring (vital) goals on the intl stage in WC qualifiers and Nations League 2023 /24/25. From watching him on occasion this season 2025/2026 he has declined even more so to the level of caricature.
Quote from: gawa316 on June 17, 2026, 02:37:38 PMThere'll defo be one penalty for Ronaldo today. Nearly a 5th of his goals have been pens
Messi's would be no where near that figure
797 goals, non penalties to Ronaldo's 715 crazy stats
Penalties are 183 for Ron and 114 for Messi on top of those figures
Ronaldo was always the better athlete, but Messi is just a more naturally gifted footballer. Less theatrics with Messi as well - a far more rounded team player who doesn't seek to make every game about him with theatrics.
[/quote]
For me that's why he should be considered the better of the two overall.
He had big moments in the past year, but Ronaldo is like a former county man coming on late in a club game. You can see that the mind is ahead of his body.
Portugal have a serious team but he is still worth a shout if they are chasing a goal.
I know some players may be out of club form for Argentina but they also have a tidy team and they still fully trust Messi and are not obliged to pass to him.
How will the Three Lions get on this evening?
Who are the Messi and Ronaldo of GAA
McCurry and Murphy?
Quote from: Main Street on June 17, 2026, 02:51:01 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 17, 2026, 12:55:03 PMQuote from: Main Street on June 17, 2026, 12:34:36 PMBut has Martinez the bottle to relegate Ronaldo the icon?
Of course he doesn't. Martinez is the one who brought him back in the first place. When he was benched for Ramos (correctly) in Qatar that should have been the end of him as an international footballer.
Whether Ronaldo is or was a better "athlete" than Messi is, frankly, meaningless. Messi has been the better footballer, which is what matters, from about 2006, and without doubt from the 08/09 season on. I'm not sure there's anyone who even pretends to dispute this any more.
I was talking about Ronaldo's present day value to the team vis a vis Messi's value to Argentina, not about comparing footballing qualities or merits of each and not least indulging in a meaningless binary debate about who is/ was the better player. And Ronaldo without that athleticism is quite frankly a player who would never ever score 300+ goals for RM, but nevertheless he still retained the knack of scoring (vital) goals on the intl stage in WC qualifiers and Nations League 2023 /24/25. From watching him on occasion this season 2025/2026 he has declined even more so to the level of caricature.
The only part of your post that I was directly addressing was the piece around Martinez, hence why the quote was edited to only that rather than your entire post.
The rest of my post is my two cents on the general discussion in relation to Messi/Ronaldo.
Quote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 04:25:58 PMWho are the Messi and Ronaldo of GAA
McCurry and Murphy?
Ronaldo can be a bit of a dick but Jesus he's not as bad as Murphy!!
Quote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 04:25:58 PMWho are the Messi and Ronaldo of GAA
McCurry and Murphy?
Messi - Murnin/ McCarron/ Walsh?
Ronaldo - Aidan O'Shea
O'Shea lol, some buck eejit too, between budgie smugglers and pot shots
Hard to look past McCarron for the Messi vibe, though would favour McCurry
Quote from: gawa316 on June 15, 2026, 12:59:21 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 13, 2026, 10:04:54 AMQuote from: gawa316 on June 12, 2026, 11:33:08 PMQuote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Close. Full kit w**ker.
Oh yeah that makes more sense :-*
I was wondering why Rebecca Lowe was taking more offense to the word w**ker, than f**king! :D
That roundhouse is coming. The two lads have had enough of Lalas.
Quote from: Puckoon on June 17, 2026, 06:31:30 PMQuote from: gawa316 on June 15, 2026, 12:59:21 AMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 13, 2026, 10:04:54 AMQuote from: gawa316 on June 12, 2026, 11:33:08 PMQuote from: Puckoon on June 12, 2026, 11:19:13 PMZlatan's greatest moment could be if he f**king roundhouses Alexi Lalas off the top deck of this stadium. Imagine being in the company of Rebecca Lowe, Thierry and then having to deal with Lalas.
He did call James Cordon a f**king w**ker on TV so not all bad!
Close. Full kit w**ker.
Oh yeah that makes more sense :-*
I was wondering why Rebecca Lowe was taking more offense to the word w**ker, than f**king! :D
That roundhouse is coming. The two lads have had enough of Lalas.
Zlatan got Lalas and Donovan a cracker from clip I seen after the France game
Portugal doing well playing with 10 against Congo.
Quote from: From the Bunker on June 17, 2026, 07:44:14 PMPortugal doing well playing with 10 against Congo.
I was wondering who was sent off. Then I got it ....
Martinez needs to grow a pair. Portugal will do nothing with Ronaldo starting. They suffered the last Euros too because of it , and he's doing it again
Imagine being in a position where you CANT take a player off.
When you consider the initial contribution of M'Bappe, Haaland, and Messi in their first games, Ronaldo shouldnt even be considered in the same breath as them.
The old Ronaldo fanboys wont be having that though.
He should be suspended anyway. Disgraceful.
England's second team (subs) would be a good team in itself. Great squad depth, one of the best in the tournament.
Will it be EASY for England tonight?
If a penalty taker stutters all bets should be off for encroachment and keeper off the line (I may or may not be biased!)
Dancing in Dallas so far.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on June 17, 2026, 08:04:55 PMImagine being in a position where you CANT take a player off.
When you consider the initial contribution of M'Bappe, Haaland, and Messi in their first games, Ronaldo shouldnt even be considered in the same breath as them.
The old Ronaldo fanboys wont be having that though.
In his heyday the first two combined wouldn't lace his boots. He's one of maybe 3 ever fit to be mentioned in the same breath as Messi.
He's done at the top level now, any manager with a set of balls would have him at most coming on for the last 10 mins.
Get in!
1-1 good goal for Croatia. Watching ITV what is the idea with the woman with the chalk and blackboard during the water break.
Pickford got to be saving that in my book.
Quote from: Blowitupref on June 17, 2026, 09:37:57 PM1-1 good goal for Croatia. Watching ITV what is the idea with the woman with the chalk and blackboard during the water break.
Doing a shopping list perhaps.
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 17, 2026, 09:38:10 PMPickford got to be saving that in my book.
Arms too short
Until that Croatian goal both teams have been dire. The granny and the blackboard was comical ffs
Bastards
That was all too easy for Kane, England back in front.
You think a team might mark Harry kane at a corner :o
Awful match for 35 mins has come to life
Thought that was offside.. Hopefully see a replay, very good game this.
Those kick outs England are doing look like a disaster waiting to happen. Can just see someone in a final sneaking a tap in as Pickford isn't ready for it ;D
Both teams have had 2 shots on target and scored both. Not that interesting a game given the scoreline.
QuoteThought that was offside.. Hopefully see a replay, very good game this.
I don't care if it's a good game or not. I just want those grassholes beat.
BASTARDS!
Jaysus if it was a boxing match it would be called off. England giving them a battering at the start of this half.
Modric looking every bit his 40 years.
That was a really bad tackle from Kane. He gets away with far too much stuff like that. Backing into a defender jumping to head a long ball is his favourite.
Quote from: square_ball on June 17, 2026, 10:22:34 PMJaysus if it was a boxing match it would be called off. England giving them a battering at the start of this half.
Modric looking every bit his 40 years.
Not sure about that. There could be a draw here yet. Livakovic is some keeper.
Emma Hayes with the blackboard always very good analysis, one of the best women pundits.
Way England are playing very worrying, they look good 😅
BASTARDS!!
4-2 England surely off to a winning start now.
Should be disallowed for that hair alone
Jesus. This is some game.
Pretty impressive going forward, shakey as f**k at the back. They could go close.
Quote from: bennydorano on June 17, 2026, 11:03:35 PMPretty impressive going forward, shakey as f**k at the back. They could go close.
Theyre definitely in the mix. They have been there or thereabouts in recent tournaments and a(nother) favourable draw could see them go deep into this one. Early days lads, no need to panic!
They are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
They look solid. If Armagh get over Kerry this weekend the world is the Oyster!
We look better than France,Spain,Brazil. I'll stay humble though let me say this is England's World Cup to lose now says one cocky English fan on Sky Sports News.
England winning the whole thing with a German manager 60 years after 1966 would be some irony. They got to the finals of last 2 Euros and only knocked out by France in last World Cup so they've been knocking on the door and now have a much better manager in Tuchel than Southgate. It could happen this time.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:08:19 PMThey are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
I'm worried. They look good and now they have a proper manager and not that spoofer Southgate.
Rashford's barnet absolutely shocking
Goalkeeper not tara
They're dangerous but should get picked off against the top few teams
Bellingham will revert to type and do his own thing when they hit the high stakes games, it'll cost them
Mayo-esque
Climate will catch up with them. Rice was blowing out of his arse in a nice air conditioned roofed stadium. Wait until they go to Mexico City on 6th July and if they escape that,Miami on 11th July.
Quote from: tiempo on June 17, 2026, 11:36:56 PMRashford's barnet absolutely shocking
Goalkeeper not tara
They're dangerous but should get picked off against the top few teams
Bellingham will revert to type and do his own thing when they hit the high stakes games, it'll cost them
Mayo-esque
There's not many around.
France, Argentina, could maybe take them
Spain looked very ordinary. Portugal, Netherlands, Brazil won't win it. Not sure about Germany
The nearer those backstards get to the latter stages , the more you worry a flukey goal or a penalty decision could see them do the unthinkable
England will get to their usual quarter or semi looking good on the way, but mark my words, Pickford will mess up in that big game, very very overrated with plenty of mistakes in him
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:08:19 PMThey are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
Starting Stones who has played limited football this season ahead of Guehi was a strange one for me last night. I would have had Guehi down as the first choice centre back.
Not sure you can win a World Cup with Stones and Konsa at centre half, they did look excellent going forward which is a worry.
I think some of you are getting carried away with how good England are. Croatia aren't a great side, two of their starting 11 were players pushing 40.
France, Argentina even Spain despite them being poor the other night are better than England imo. The Dutch also would be equal.
I've been impressed with some of the African teams so far. Morocco, Senegal and DR Congo are no push overs. Would be great to see one or more go deep into the tournament.
Quote from: statto on June 18, 2026, 06:44:09 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:08:19 PMThey are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
Starting Stones who has played limited football this season ahead of Guehi was a strange one for me last night. I would have had Guehi down as the first choice centre back.
Not sure you can win a World Cup with Stones and Konsa at centre half, they did look excellent going forward which is a worry.
O'Reilly is also not a left back. He will get found out against a decent winger. From midfield up they are very good. They definitely have a chance unfortunately.
Quote from: ArmaghTastic on June 18, 2026, 07:47:06 AMI think some of you are getting carried away with how good England are. Croatia aren't a great side, two of their starting 11 were players pushing 40.
France, Argentina even Spain despite them being poor the other night are better than England imo. The Dutch also would be equal.
I've been impressed with some of the African teams so far. Morocco, Senegal and DR Congo are no push overs. Would be great to see one or more go deep into the tournament.
Well Morocco got to the semi final last time which is pretty deep in anyone's book
Quote from: statto on June 18, 2026, 06:44:09 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:08:19 PMThey are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
Starting Stones who has played limited football this season ahead of Guehi was a strange one for me last night. I would have had Guehi down as the first choice centre back.
Not sure you can win a World Cup with Stones and Konsa at centre half, they did look excellent going forward which is a worry.
Think I heard Guehi wasn't fully fit?
Any idea on what England's likely path looks like once they are out of the group?
Quote from: toby47 on June 18, 2026, 10:19:14 AMAny idea on what England's likely path looks like once they are out of the group?
E/H/I/J/K third place team in round of 32 (Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Norway Senegal, Austria and DR Congo), Mexico last 16, Brazil last 8, Argentina semi final.
See the English fans causing hassle in the shock of the week...
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 18, 2026, 08:27:52 AMQuote from: statto on June 18, 2026, 06:44:09 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on June 17, 2026, 11:08:19 PMThey are a top teams, the squad is decent, defensively ordinary though
Starting Stones who has played limited football this season ahead of Guehi was a strange one for me last night. I would have had Guehi down as the first choice centre back.
Not sure you can win a World Cup with Stones and Konsa at centre half, they did look excellent going forward which is a worry.
Think I heard Guehi wasn't fully fit?
Nor was Stones.
They were good, but there are questions. But ultimately that's by a distance their toughest opening game and they dealt with them.
Have to admire Tuchel's no nonsense approach, and I think he's correctly identified that while the lad is a pure dose with a ridiculous haircut Marcus Rashford has the physical attributes to make a huge difference, is well fit for the level and forces teams to respect Englands attack which should be a pre-requisite for any attacker
Made some excellent tactical adjustments last night, they looked to be camped in holding on to 3-2 with Rice on, Rice went off and they went even more negative as Bellingham isn't as effective in a traditional centre mid role, to take Bellingham off, stick James to MF and the much maligned Djed Spence to right back wrestled back control prior to the 4th goal to kill the game
Also the players are giving it the big one about the half time team talk, seems the might have got a GAA style rocket up the arse and seem to be eating out of Tuchels hand at the moment, all put together this does make England rather dangerous, like Mayo once in a while
I still think Bellinghams ego will get the better of him and will get exploited as he tries to cheat tactically and grab headlines at the business end
Should be excellent from last 16 onwards by the time it comes around
Croatia players very good on the ball. Some great intricate passing. Was just the passing in the final third that let them down , although their second goal was brilliantly worked.
I've just realised that 32 from 48 go through. When you consider the likes of Curaçao, Qatar, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Katie Price etc are in there , the odds of any big team missing out is practically nil.
Good man Austin. Knew you'd get there 😄
There will be the odd good game and great for the smaller nations to say they've played at the world cup but yes it's largely sparring at the minute, finding form etc.
Quote from: tiempo on June 18, 2026, 11:56:43 AMHave to admire Tuchel's no nonsense approach, and I think he's correctly identified that while the lad is a pure dose with a ridiculous haircut Marcus Rashford has the physical attributes to make a huge difference, is well fit for the level and forces teams to respect Englands attack which should be a pre-requisite for any attacker
Made some excellent tactical adjustments last night, they looked to be camped in holding on to 3-2 with Rice on, Rice went off and they went even more negative as Bellingham isn't as effective in a traditional centre mid role, to take Bellingham off, stick James to MF and the much maligned Djed Spence to right back wrestled back control prior to the 4th goal to kill the game
Also the players are giving it the big one about the half time team talk, seems the might have got a GAA style rocket up the arse and seem to be eating out of Tuchels hand at the moment, all put together this does make England rather dangerous, like Mayo once in a while
I still think Bellinghams ego will get the better of him and will get exploited as he tries to cheat tactically and grab headlines at the business end
Should be excellent from last 16 onwards by the time it comes around
The Assistant Manager who's name escapes me did an interview at half time and was absolutely furious. In fairness to them they started like a train in second half and Croatia were well under the pump when England played high energy game, game could been long over before Rashford made it 4-2.
Only time will tell how good that result was last night ie how good are Croatia? Modric looks finished and their defence for the 3rd goal i think it was, was dreadful, not to mention the others. Unfortunately the other teams in the group don't look to be any great shakes either
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 18, 2026, 12:12:47 PMGood man Austin. Knew you'd get there 😄
There will be the odd good game and great for the smaller nations to say they've played at the world cup but yes it's largely sparring at the minute, finding form etc.
Well, I remembered rather than realised ;)
Ive no beef in the tournament other than wanting England to lose , so they could probably only need to beat Panama 1-0 and still qualify. Frig sake , even Scotland should make it!
They'll probably go the whole hog next time and have 64 teams. Sure it makes sense with the top two from each group fitting nicely into the round of 32 ::)
Didn't realize Rashford's haircut was such a big deal.
To be fair I felt his pace looked more sluggish rather than a bad hair cut
South African lad with one of the worst stepovers I've ever seen.
The SA lads are some moaners
These Czech guys are dung because that south African team are a pub team. Makes our failure all the more annoying
Swiss running/ran away with this
Qatar could get smashed here ;D.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 18, 2026, 11:38:09 PMQatar could get smashed here ;D.
Their penalty area is permanently congested
Biggest blowouts in World Cup History before today:
Hungary 9, South Korea 0: 1954
Yugoslavia 9, Zaire 0: 1974
Hungary 10, El Salvador 1: 1982
Canada has about 5 minutes to beat that. And they might just do it.
Mexico first team to qualify for the next round
Ozzie fans givings the Scots a run for best fans anyway! #DonaldTrumpsasexoffender
Kenny Cunningham on RTE. Jesus Christ. The accent is bad enough but the guff he comes out with. So bad I'm wondering if Danny Murphy on BBC couldn't be worse?
USA USA USA USA USA
Quote from: No1 on June 19, 2026, 08:58:02 PMKenny Cunningham on RTE. Jesus Christ. The accent is bad enough but the guff he comes out with. So bad I'm wondering if Danny Murphy on BBC couldn't be worse?
Actually sort of enjoying the commentary, like a couple of boys in a pub having a few pints talking about the game, which is shite anyway.
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 19, 2026, 09:17:56 PMUSA USA USA USA USA
Full onboard the USA bandwagon. They're decent enough.
Always good to see the host nation playing well.
Who were all those people they kept showing in the crowd at the US game?
And yer woman getting a photo with the officials before kick off? Wtf was that all about?
Scotland look to be in for a long night.
Not great so far. They are doing their best to not qualify for the last 32. Goal difference could be a killer for those best 3rd place spots
Morocco are seriously good. Just met a family from Scotland who were at the first game annd now over here doing Yosemite and then onto Grand Canyon,, early optimism has gone!
The Scots are getting nothing from this ref! Morocco are technically much the better team and should be further ahead. The longer the Scots hang on the better the chance they can steal something from the game.
Scotland have been shocking they give the ball away far too easily!!
It should have been 3-0 the Moroccans by far the better team and never really looked like they'd concede.
Thought on another day they could've had 2 pens
Well done Morocco. Celtic cousins me arse. Be glad to see the diving cheats sent packing.
An absolute pathetic effort. You go 1-0 down after 1 minute and then don't create anything in the next 89 mins wtf. Any time they got near the box they were falling over looking for freekicks. I didnt see the Haiti match but a I heard it was dung too. How after a gap of 28 yrs from their last WC can a team be so lacklustre. If you can't play through a superior team then play more direct ffs
Better team won but ref robbed us of some sport. Team ranked 7th vs 42nd so no surprises
Pat nevin on the BBC website saying Scotland can be proud- no idea what he has been watching but it certainly wasn't this game
Hmmm, Scotland played better second half that's about it, ref may have been harsh on them at times but nothing out of the ordinary..
They may hope things collectively go their way regarding best placed 3rd place
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 18, 2026, 12:07:55 PMCroatia players very good on the ball. Some great intricate passing. Was just the passing in the final third that let them down , although their second goal was brilliantly worked.
I've just realised that 32 from 48 go through. When you consider the likes of Curaçao, Qatar, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Katie Price etc are in there , the odds of any big team missing out is practically nil.
Katie Price 🤣🤣
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 20, 2026, 10:33:39 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 18, 2026, 12:07:55 PMCroatia players very good on the ball. Some great intricate passing. Was just the passing in the final third that let them down , although their second goal was brilliantly worked.
I've just realised that 32 from 48 go through. When you consider the likes of Curaçao, Qatar, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Katie Price etc are in there , the odds of any big team missing out is practically nil.
Katie Price 🤣🤣
Took me a minute!
Good game here. Germany are very open at the back.
The young fella Diomande looks like he's going to be a star.
Germany got outta jail
Ya never know with them
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 20, 2026, 11:07:16 PMGermany got outta jail
Ya never know with them
[/quote
Germany played very tidy football and didn't panic.
Quote from: thewobbler on June 20, 2026, 11:11:55 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on June 20, 2026, 11:07:16 PMGermany got outta jail
Ya never know with them
[/quote
Germany played very tidy football and didn't panic.
Yeah, stuck to the task, there's a chance with them
Lukaku always shows at the World Cup that he really lacks sharp movement in the box when the space is tight. "Fox in the box" he is not.
Iraq good enough value for this so far.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 21, 2026, 09:57:30 PMLukaku always shows at the World Cup that he really lacks sharp movement in the box when the space is tight. "Fox in the box" he is not.
Iraq good enough value for this so far.
Iraq gain a point due to Belgium drawing with Iran? ;)
;D Belgium overhyped as usual anyway.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 21, 2026, 10:27:18 PM;D Belgium overhyped as usual anyway.
Has there been all that much hype about them this time?
Their golden generation is already either retired or largely immobile. Courtois the only one left who could truly be considered world class in terms of being in the discussion as the best at his position.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 21, 2026, 10:27:18 PM;D Belgium overhyped as usual anyway.
Haven't seen any hype. Those days are over.
Loving Cape Verde, the nutmeg of the competition so far
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 21, 2026, 09:57:30 PMLukaku always shows at the World Cup that he really lacks sharp movement in the box when the space is tight. "Fox in the box" he is not.
Iraq good enough value for this so far.
Lukaku never had good, quick feet even in his prime at Everton, he likes to bull past lads and thump it. He doesn't have the legs anymore for that.
Belgium won't go far.
Felt it was a pen, one player wiped out Martinez and the other got the ball after tackle.. Not sure what others make of it
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 22, 2026, 06:09:07 PMFelt it was a pen, one player wiped out Martinez and the other got the ball after tackle.. Not sure what others make of it
Thought so too. The foul was before the other defender got the ball. Poor penalty by Messi. Ronaldo will be delighted.
Was a penalty after a few views
Messi walking around like those memes of Pablo Escobar... head down, depressed
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 22, 2026, 06:17:36 PMMessi walking around like those memes of Pablo Escobar... head down, depressed
He's a happy boy now
Good goal.
The Argies love a row.
Congratulations to Lionel.
He has scored that one so many times over the last 20 years :D
2nd goal for Messi and Argentina
He just keeps delivering! Alvarez should have scored in the first place.
What a player
Could/should have had more than the 2. Incredible at 38/39 what he's doing
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 22, 2026, 08:03:26 PMCould/should have had more than the 2. Incredible at 38/39 what he's doing
More goals he's scored in this World Cup now than he scored in his first 3 World cups according to RTE.
Only fair that he got that one after Alvarez the bastard robbed him of a beautiful assist.
Hungriest player in the box for that 2nd one. Massive determination at that age.
Unreal, great how he just turns up when on the ball, he meanders around uninterested, then bam!
would teams not just man mark the man now?
Quote from: Puckoon on June 22, 2026, 08:12:25 PMHungriest player in the box for that 2nd one. Massive determination at that age.
The Ciaran Kilkenny of Argentina. Sky Blues as well
Messi. What more can you say
Unless Jordan win their game tonight Argentina have qualified as group winners. In that circumstance will Argentina rest Messi for the next game?
Quote from: dec on June 22, 2026, 08:29:05 PMUnless Jordan win their game tonight Argentina have qualified as group winners. In that circumstance will Argentina rest Messi for the next game?
100% they will.
As it stands Argentina will face Uruguay in the knockout stage so a chance they might rest him depending on how the projected draw goes
Can track in on bbc
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/schedule?fbclid=IwdGRjcASmbsdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-z46sx2XeE9Whlag_GUNNuxsGPf99rEVivnu07PBJv51LaSvFyvlbgQ_N4M_aem_FWt3rp0iUp5b9R29FR1PxQ#KnockoutStage
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 22, 2026, 08:39:58 PMAs it stands Argentina will face Uruguay in the knockout stage so a chance they might rest him depending on how the projected draw goes
Can track in on bbc
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/schedule?fbclid=IwdGRjcASmbsdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-z46sx2XeE9Whlag_GUNNuxsGPf99rEVivnu07PBJv51LaSvFyvlbgQ_N4M_aem_FWt3rp0iUp5b9R29FR1PxQ#KnockoutStage
That will be an explosive game against Uruguay if it happens lol
Amazing performance again; his ability to pick out the right pass is outstanding, Maybe the better teams will be able to man-mark him more effectively, and essentially they are defending with ten men only.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on June 22, 2026, 09:01:53 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 22, 2026, 08:39:58 PMAs it stands Argentina will face Uruguay in the knockout stage so a chance they might rest him depending on how the projected draw goes
Can track in on bbc
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/schedule?fbclid=IwdGRjcASmbsdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-z46sx2XeE9Whlag_GUNNuxsGPf99rEVivnu07PBJv51LaSvFyvlbgQ_N4M_aem_FWt3rp0iUp5b9R29FR1PxQ#KnockoutStage
That will be an explosive game against Uruguay if it happens lol
Some potential tasty last 16 games
I came across a stat that Ronaldo covered about 7.5 km in the first game, some 200m more than Messi. I saw Messi running, moving at pace, involved in the game but I didn't notice Ronaldo move more than 5 or 10m on a rare occasion, at times he reminded me of his statue but with moving arms. Could those stats be spoofed?
Listening to Jon Champion on ITV.
Proper old school commentator didn't realise he was still going. Very nostalgic.
Unless they get into one of their traditional civil wars, I don't see how anyone can possibly stop this French team if they get up to full speed, which a few soft games before the round of 16 will do for them.
Mbappé, Dembélé, Olise and either of Doué or Barcola is a ludicrous front four. The entire squad is packed full of athletes as well as footballers.
Quote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 01:06:18 AMI came across a stat that Ronaldo covered about 7.5 km in the first game, some 200m more than Messi. I saw Messi running, moving at pace, involved in the game but I didn't notice Ronaldo move more than 5 or 10m on a rare occasion, at times he reminded me of his statue but with moving arms. Could those stats be spoofed?
When you consider that walking 10km in 90 minutes is something any 38 year old would be able to do without training, the truth is neither of them is doing anything much other than light jogs into position and occasional sprints.
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 23, 2026, 02:08:20 AMListening to Jon Champion on ITV.
Proper old school commentator didn't realise he was still going. Very nostalgic.
Yeah I like Jon Champion commentating. The new breed the likes of Sam Matterface and Darren 'Fletch' Fletcher are brutal. They have pre prepared lines that they have to shoehorn in and talk just for the sake of it. Noticeable how much better Ally McCoist is in co-comms with Jon Champion than he is with Darren Fletcher.
Quote from: square_ball on June 23, 2026, 08:15:44 AMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 23, 2026, 02:08:20 AMListening to Jon Champion on ITV.
Proper old school commentator didn't realise he was still going. Very nostalgic.
Yeah I like Jon Champion commentating. The new breed the likes of Sam Matterface and Darren 'Fletch' Fletcher are brutal. They have pre prepared lines that they have to shoehorn in and talk just for the sake of it. Noticeable how much better Ally McCoist is in co-comms with Jon Champion than he is with Darren Fletcher.
Yeah i do like Ally but he does get carried away from time to time.
Where does Champion ply his trade on the day to day or does he just do major tournaments?
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 23, 2026, 08:54:12 AMQuote from: square_ball on June 23, 2026, 08:15:44 AMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 23, 2026, 02:08:20 AMListening to Jon Champion on ITV.
Proper old school commentator didn't realise he was still going. Very nostalgic.
Yeah I like Jon Champion commentating. The new breed the likes of Sam Matterface and Darren 'Fletch' Fletcher are brutal. They have pre prepared lines that they have to shoehorn in and talk just for the sake of it. Noticeable how much better Ally McCoist is in co-comms with Jon Champion than he is with Darren Fletcher.
Yeah i do like Ally but he does get carried away from time to time.
Where does Champion ply his trade on the day to day or does he just do major tournaments?
I have heard him commentate on the Premier League when watching on different streams. Google says he's on NBC in America.
https://x.com/xavismofcb_/status/2069105347059392876?s=46 (https://x.com/xavismofcb_/status/2069105347059392876?s=46)
???
Quote from: thewobbler on June 23, 2026, 08:01:40 AMQuote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 01:06:18 AMI came across a stat that Ronaldo covered about 7.5 km in the first game, some 200m more than Messi. I saw Messi running, moving at pace, involved in the game but I didn't notice Ronaldo move more than 5 or 10m on a rare occasion, at times he reminded me of his statue but with moving arms. Could those stats be spoofed?
When you consider that walking 10km in 90 minutes is something any 38 year old would be able to do without training, the truth is neither of them is doing anything much other than light jogs into position and occasional sprints.
A midfielder at that level should be doing 15 plus, a striker at least 10. Messi never tracked back, but even for him that's poor.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 23, 2026, 01:50:33 PMQuote from: thewobbler on June 23, 2026, 08:01:40 AMQuote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 01:06:18 AMI came across a stat that Ronaldo covered about 7.5 km in the first game, some 200m more than Messi. I saw Messi running, moving at pace, involved in the game but I didn't notice Ronaldo move more than 5 or 10m on a rare occasion, at times he reminded me of his statue but with moving arms. Could those stats be spoofed?
When you consider that walking 10km in 90 minutes is something any 38 year old would be able to do without training, the truth is neither of them is doing anything much other than light jogs into position and occasional sprints.
A midfielder at that level should be doing 15 plus, a striker at least 10. Messi never tracked back, but even for him that's poor.
They're both good enough that you're happy enough for them to doddle about when not on the ball. (Well Ronaldo not anymore, but at his best)
You can get away with one player like that but not 2 or 3 as PSG and Madrid have found out with Mbappe etc
Messi, Mbappe, Haaland etc all scoring well. Ronaldo has been well and truly put in the shade so far.
He'll be taking free kicks , goal kicks galore tonight to make up for it. Might even see him trying to score from corners
Be taking kickouts, corners, free kicks you name it lol
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 23, 2026, 01:50:33 PMA midfielder at that level should be doing 15 plus, a striker at least 10. Messi never tracked back, but even for him that's poor.
Both of those statements are patently untrue. 15km+ would be high. Messi tracked back plenty in his early career.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 23, 2026, 03:56:36 PMMessi, Mbappe, Haaland etc all scoring well. Ronaldo has been well and truly put in the shade so far.
He'll be taking free kicks , goal kicks galore tonight to make up for it. Might even see him trying to score from corners
About effective as Dean Windyarse at this stage, sad to see in a way, but compelling to watch just how long Martinez persists
Portugal misfiring the first day Bobby M drops Bernardo Silva.
Quote from: thewobbler on June 23, 2026, 08:01:40 AMQuote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 01:06:18 AMI came across a stat that Ronaldo covered about 7.5 km in the first game, some 200m more than Messi. I saw Messi running, moving at pace, involved in the game but I didn't notice Ronaldo move more than 5 or 10m on a rare occasion, at times he reminded me of his statue but with moving arms. Could those stats be spoofed?
When you consider that walking 10km in 90 minutes is something any 38 year old would be able to do without training, the truth is neither of them is doing anything much other than light jogs into position and occasional sprints.
And scoring 5 goals in 2 games if you're Messi
Booooooooooooo
Big Ronnie hat trick incoming now......
This is suicide stuff from the Uzbeks. Shaping up to be a battering.
Hydration break never fails
Shame that had to be chalked off because of the quality of the strike but that was as blatant a foul as they come :D
Ronnie still on the pitch. Do you think Marty is hoping Ronnie will pick up an injury?
Quote from: From the Bunker on June 23, 2026, 07:10:57 PMRonnie still on the pitch. Do you think Marty is hoping Ronnie will pick up an injury?
Those brass necks can very hot. Combined with a thin skin it's a recipe for disaster.
I'm back shouts Ronaldo to the camera at the end of the game.
Problem is - He's never been away....
And a couple of goals against a poor Uzbek side changes little.
QuoteI'm back shouts Ronaldo to the camera at the end of the game.
Problem is - He's never been away....
And a couple of goals against a poor Uzbek side changes little.
Martinez happier because he doesn't have to bow down to pressure to drop him.
You'd imagine he'll be their downfall eventually
Did the players shake Parteys hand? Was something batting about before the game that they would not
First player to score at 6 world cups. Some feat regardless of the rest of them banging them in.
Messi will be back in four years to score again
England back to themselves tonight. Phew.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 23, 2026, 09:26:15 PMEngland back to themselves tonight. Phew.
They'll find an opportunity for a few dives in the 2nd half.
Really weird "it's off the bar!" there from Guy Mowbray on BBC for a blocked Kane shot that went about 8 yards wide.
Barcelona be looking at the returns policy on Anthony Gordon.. Fella doesn't look like an international level footballer at all
No shots on target by either team. No keeper saves. Poor fare.
England need Palmer or Foden to unlock Ghana.
Quote from: Aaron Boone on June 23, 2026, 09:59:10 PMNo shots on target by either team. No keeper saves. Poor fare.
Have only watched a handful of games in this World Cup and this game by a distance the most boring I've watched.
Quote from: Jeepers Creepers on June 23, 2026, 09:08:52 PMFirst player to score at 6 world cups. Some feat regardless of the rest of them banging them in.
No denying his longevity, desire and the discipline needed to keep himself in shape.
Ironically he scored from a through ball. Never thought I'd see him do that for Portugal again.
But the whole formation is set up to go wide and cross from the wings.
It like watching Lanagans Ball. "
I stepped out and I stepped in again"
It's is now absurdly entertaining for completely different reasons.
I'd be intrigued to learn what the RTE commentators think England should do differently with corner kicks.
This is pure dung, the flapping about on the ground, holding areas which were not in contact with the tackle is infuriating. Referees allowing players to talk with disrespect for every decision !
Penalty for Ghana, surely???
Surely thats a stone wall penalty?
The Prince Adu was chopped down in the box by Konsa, no contact on the ball at all, Sean Hurson would have spotted that one.
Can someone explain how thars a free out
Kane somehow doesn't score from that opportunity.
Quote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 10:49:03 PMCan someone explain how thars a free out
Semenyo hoofed James in the shin.
Whatever about whether it was a penalty or not, the fact VAR didn't think it was worth a look from the ref is mad.
Ghana are winning the header stats.
Why are the RTE lads so bothered that England are not winning?
England drawing is the next best thing
Shocking that was not a penalty for Ghana. Game is so corrupt in favour of certain nations.
Quote from: gallsman on June 23, 2026, 10:52:14 PMQuote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 10:49:03 PMCan someone explain how thars a free out
Semenyo hoofed James in the shin.
Whatever about whether it was a penalty or not, the fact VAR didn't think it was worth a look from the ref is mad.
It was Konsa making the tackle and dont think it was on Semenya either. Going to hear about it on rte now
Quote from: weareros on June 23, 2026, 11:03:40 PMShocking that was not a penalty for Ghana. Game is so corrupt in favour of certain nations.
Lol if they were corrupt in favour of England theyd have gave them hosting duties in 2018 you absolute weapon.
I do think the smaller teams have to work harder to get a free. Always the way
Looking at it again (the incident) it was a shocking decision not to ask the ref to review it. It was as stonewall as stonewall can be.
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 23, 2026, 11:12:06 PMQuote from: weareros on June 23, 2026, 11:03:40 PMShocking that was not a penalty for Ghana. Game is so corrupt in favour of certain nations.
Lol if they were corrupt in favour of England theyd have gave them hosting duties in 2018 you absolute weapon.
Now no need for insults. The hosting is voted by member associations. England in case you don't know does not enjoy universal popularity when there's a democratic vote. That's very different to how Ronaldo can get his red card ban overturned or how an African nation gets no no fair play from Var, or how Iran gets treated like shit. There's a clear bias in a lot of this stuff.
Even the BBC admitted that it should have been a penalty.
Quote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 11:10:44 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 23, 2026, 10:52:14 PMQuote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 10:49:03 PMCan someone explain how thars a free out
Semenyo hoofed James in the shin.
Whatever about whether it was a penalty or not, the fact VAR didn't think it was worth a look from the ref is mad.
It was Konsa making the tackle and dont think it was on Semenya either. Going to hear about it on rte now
Konsa made the tackle that should have been a penalty, following which Semenyo and James contested the ball and Semenyo booted him across the shin. That's what the free was for, which was your question.
Quote from: gallsman on June 23, 2026, 11:23:27 PMQuote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 11:10:44 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 23, 2026, 10:52:14 PMQuote from: An Watcher on June 23, 2026, 10:49:03 PMCan someone explain how thars a free out
Semenyo hoofed James in the shin.
Whatever about whether it was a penalty or not, the fact VAR didn't think it was worth a look from the ref is mad.
It was Konsa making the tackle and dont think it was on Semenya either. Going to hear about it on rte now
Konsa made the tackle that should have been a penalty, following which Semenyo and James contested the ball and Semenyo booted him across the shin. That's what the free was for, which was your question.
Was it not an offside in the end? Semenyo was offside. And the ref had his arm raised to indicate an offside call.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCan someone explain how thars a free out
Semenyo hoofed James in the shin.
Whatever about whether it was a penalty or not, the fact VAR didn't think it was worth a look from the ref is mad.
It was Konsa making the tackle and dont think it was on Semenya either. Going to hear about it on rte now
Konsa made the tackle that should have been a penalty, following which Semenyo and James contested the ball and Semenyo booted him across the shin. That's what the free was for, which was your question.
Was it not an offside in the end? Semenyo was offside.
Ghana player was clearly onside
Unbelievable how that wasn't a penalty.
Quote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 11:27:13 PMWas it not an offside in the end? Semenyo was offside. And the ref had his arm raised to indicate an offside call.
No he wasn't, James was on the line.
Quote from: gallsman on June 23, 2026, 11:31:57 PMQuote from: Main Street on June 23, 2026, 11:27:13 PMWas it not an offside in the end? Semenyo was offside. And the ref had his arm raised to indicate an offside call.
No he wasn't, James was on the line.
James is only one player, there needs to be two players in line with or between the attacker and the goal line.
Just watched it again and you're right. Semenyo had gone past an outrushing Pickford so James was the last man.
Fair play to you to check it out, I thought it a bit of an embarrassment for the GAABoard´s credibility to have to explain the basic tenet of the offside rule in 2026 to members on a football thread :) but it is a thing that can be easily missed because people generally don't count the goalie in the offside equation.
Saw that incident live and not a peep out of Shearer and the other commentator about it even possibly being a foul.
Panamanian #6 Martinez - looks like a Honeybadger and has played with the ferocity of one as well. Gave every Croatian their absolute fill of it. Some shift, would be good to see them nab an equalizer.
With typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
Quote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
Don't forget Harry Maguire would have knocked in at least 2 of those corners
Quote from: Capt Pat on June 23, 2026, 10:06:01 PMEngland need Palmer or Foden to unlock Ghana.
Gibbs White for me should have been the one most annoyed at not making the squad had fantastic run towards end of season. I found it strange that Tuchel played Rogers in every qualifier then went to Bellingham for first game, I would have been inclined to start with Rogers and make Bellingham work his way into the team for the knock outs or make him the big impact player.
Djed Spence at least done something good last night by not shaking Thomas Parteys hand before the game. Rice was full of hugs for Partey afterwards.
Quote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
I'm not sure it's that "they would have beaten Ghana" but you really have to question what Toney is doing there if he's not going to come on it a game like that. Is the plan purely to bring him on in the 120th minute ahead of a shootout? Or was the plan to have first place wrapped up after two games and rest Kane for the final one? Rice looks utterly spent and was really suffering towards the end last night. Does he have any intention of using Henderson or Mainoo?
I think those are all perfectly valid questions for England fans to ask at this point. That said Palmer and Foden had poor seasons, but MGW was very unlucky.
Quote from: gallsman on June 24, 2026, 09:16:58 AMQuote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
I'm not sure it's that "they would have beaten Ghana" but you really have to question what Toney is doing there if he's not going to come on it a game like that. Is the plan purely to bring him on in the 120th minute ahead of a shootout? Or was the plan to have first place wrapped up after two games and rest Kane for the final one? Rice looks utterly spent and was really suffering towards the end last night. Does he have any intention of using Henderson or Mainoo?
I think those are all perfectly valid questions for England fans to ask at this point. That said Palmer and Foden had poor seasons, but MGW was very unlucky.
Maguire is still the big omission. If an opponent is going to cede midfield to you then you're going to end up with lots of corners. If same opponent is stacked full of six footers, then you need a proper aerial threat.
Quote from: square_ball on June 24, 2026, 08:29:41 AMDjed Spence at least done something good last night by not shaking Thomas Parteys hand before the game. Rice was full of hugs for Partey afterwards.
Quote from: gallsman on June 24, 2026, 09:16:58 AMQuote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
I'm not sure it's that "they would have beaten Ghana" but you really have to question what Toney is doing there if he's not going to come on it a game like that. Is the plan purely to bring him on in the 120th minute ahead of a shootout? Or was the plan to have first place wrapped up after two games and rest Kane for the final one? Rice looks utterly spent and was really suffering towards the end last night. Does he have any intention of using Henderson or Mainoo?
I think those are all perfectly valid questions for England fans to ask at this point. That said Palmer and Foden had poor seasons, but MGW was very unlucky.
I think you are right about Toney great penalty taker, but you would expect that Watkins is next man up and his gametime will be limited. Would Kane not be viewing the next game as a game he can get 2,3,4 goals in and play anyway?
Mainoo would be ahead of Henderson you would expect.
Quote from: gallsman on June 24, 2026, 09:16:58 AMQuote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
I'm not sure it's that "they would have beaten Ghana" but you really have to question what Toney is doing there if he's not going to come on it a game like that. Is the plan purely to bring him on in the 120th minute ahead of a shootout? Or was the plan to have first place wrapped up after two games and rest Kane for the final one? Rice looks utterly spent and was really suffering towards the end last night. Does he have any intention of using Henderson or Mainoo?
I think those are all perfectly valid questions for England fans to ask at this point. That said Palmer and Foden had poor seasons, but MGW was very unlucky.
Palmer had an injury hit season but still should have been brought ahead of Henderson.
Quote from: nrico2006 on June 24, 2026, 10:21:11 AMPalmer had an injury hit season but still should have been brought ahead of Henderson.
No chance. Henderson is brought to set and maintain standards especially at training and among the rank and file, numbers 15-26, and I'd suggest he might be bullish enough to call out any primadonna nonsense from the likes of Bellingham too which is never far away. He's also the only active English player that has lifted the PL and CL titles, he knows a thing or two about winning big games. The likes of Palmer, Foden, Trent would be unnecessary distractions. I've no doubt if England don't open up and play some decent football against Panama then Tuchel will pivot to an ultra pragmatic/Arsenal style approach in order to get the job done, no place for mavericks in that domain.
A 26 man squad should allow room for a Cole Palmer or TAA instead of bringing lads that are good for morale.
I still think they'll go close enough. There's not many great teams in the tournament. That defence is poor though and I think will be their undoing towards the latter end.
I do enjoy how the English supporters and media think its the end of the world after a poor performance.
Quote from: tiempo on June 24, 2026, 10:26:41 AMQuote from: nrico2006 on June 24, 2026, 10:21:11 AMPalmer had an injury hit season but still should have been brought ahead of Henderson.
No chance. Henderson is brought to set and maintain standards especially at training and among the rank and file, numbers 15-26, and I'd suggest he might be bullish enough to call out any primadonna nonsense from the likes of Bellingham too which is never far away. He's also the only active English player that has lifted the PL and CL titles, he knows a thing or two about winning big games. The likes of Palmer, Foden, Trent would be unnecessary distractions. I've no doubt if England don't open up and play some decent football against Panama then Tuchel will pivot to an ultra pragmatic/Arsenal style approach in order to get the job done, no place for mavericks in that domain.
Bring Henderson as a coach then if he's not going to be playing. And there has never been any suggestion that Palmer/Trent/Foden are bad eggs in any of the tournaments they have been to over the years.
Quote from: square_ball on June 24, 2026, 10:27:25 AMA 26 man squad should allow room for a Cole Palmer or TAA instead of bringing lads that are good for morale.
I still think they'll go close enough. There's not many great teams in the tournament. That defence is poor though and I think will be their undoing towards the latter end.
I do enjoy how the English supporters and media think its the end of the world after a poor performance.
Don't think that's been the general reaction at all tbh. Mostly qualified criticism of a poor performance (like Spain, Portugal etc did) whilst acknowledging they'll likely still win the group.
Quote from: gallsman on June 24, 2026, 10:30:35 AMQuote from: square_ball on June 24, 2026, 10:27:25 AMA 26 man squad should allow room for a Cole Palmer or TAA instead of bringing lads that are good for morale.
I still think they'll go close enough. There's not many great teams in the tournament. That defence is poor though and I think will be their undoing towards the latter end.
I do enjoy how the English supporters and media think its the end of the world after a poor performance.
Don't think that's been the general reaction at all tbh. Mostly qualified criticism of a poor performance (like Spain, Portugal etc did) whilst acknowledging they'll likely still win the group.
It's probably a bit of a false equivalence, Ghana are not a bad side but the English see all these other teams wiping the floors with the lesser teams and expect the same.
Too many dopey teams in the groups, we won't see how teams are actually playing likely until the quarters.
Bellingham a lucky boy not to see red for the hand over his mouth? Although a joke of a rule enforce for all or for none!
Quote from: gallsman on June 24, 2026, 09:16:58 AMQuote from: Aaron Boone on June 24, 2026, 07:38:27 AMWith typical English revisionism, they would have beat Ghana had Cole Palmer, Phil Foden or Morgan Gibbs-White been in the team. All 3 not picked by Tuchel.
I'm not sure it's that "they would have beaten Ghana" but you really have to question what Toney is doing there if he's not going to come on it a game like that. Is the plan purely to bring him on in the 120th minute ahead of a shootout? Or was the plan to have first place wrapped up after two games and rest Kane for the final one? Rice looks utterly spent and was really suffering towards the end last night. Does he have any intention of using Henderson or Mainoo?
I think those are all perfectly valid questions for England fans to ask at this point. That said Palmer and Foden had poor seasons, but MGW was very unlucky.
He was up all night preparing the quiz. Knackered he was
Quote from: square_ball on June 24, 2026, 10:29:38 AMQuote from: tiempo on June 24, 2026, 10:26:41 AMQuote from: nrico2006 on June 24, 2026, 10:21:11 AMPalmer had an injury hit season but still should have been brought ahead of Henderson.
No chance. Henderson is brought to set and maintain standards especially at training and among the rank and file, numbers 15-26, and I'd suggest he might be bullish enough to call out any primadonna nonsense from the likes of Bellingham too which is never far away. He's also the only active English player that has lifted the PL and CL titles, he knows a thing or two about winning big games. The likes of Palmer, Foden, Trent would be unnecessary distractions. I've no doubt if England don't open up and play some decent football against Panama then Tuchel will pivot to an ultra pragmatic/Arsenal style approach in order to get the job done, no place for mavericks in that domain.
Bring Henderson as a coach then if he's not going to be playing. And there has never been any suggestion that Palmer/Trent/Foden are bad eggs in any of the tournaments they have been to over the years.
Neither was Simon Zebo a bad egg, and I'm sure he was plenty good for camp, but the IRFU gaffer didn't bring him for his own reasons, same as the soccer trio. Personally I think Tuchel couldn't be fucked with the hassle of perceived peacocks and would rather grounded pros filled the numbers out, last thing you want is an Austin Healy/Matt Dawson dynamic to derail things. Tuchel certainly doesn't pander to anyone, he plans to go deep and fall over the line, there's not a version of this WC where Eng turn up with a team of mavericks and play everyone off the park which is what the media love to imply
Can Scotland do it and not get beat by a cricket score to make the next round? I hope they get hammered and make the next round to highlight how crap the 3rd place qualifying is
After a poor first half the Swiss score early in the second half. Hopefully that will make a game of it.
Scotland I fear are doomed. They will be hoping to go through on 3 points.
Quote from: Capt Pat on June 24, 2026, 09:14:29 PMAfter a poor first half the Swiss score early in the second half. Hopefully that will make a game of it.
Scotland I fear are doomed. They will be hoping to go through on 3 points.
8 out of 12 3rd place teams make knockout, which is nonsense. At least two groups already look like 3rd team won't reach or exceed 3 points, so Scots could make it on a fortunate victory over Haiti unless they get something off a poor Brazil team.
Will be a bit of a joke if they get hammered tonight n still get through. Beatca minnow 1 nil
They could well get a hammering if they are going to gift goals like that.
There have been a load of daft goals like that at this world cup. When will teams learn that playing out from the back is the biggest load of bullshit ever. To be fair after the nonsensical build up from the commentators about making history it was almost inevitable ;D
Jesus Christ.. Idiotic from Scotland
That's so bad.
Déjà vu.
At least their fans had a good time anyway.
Quote from: square_ball on June 24, 2026, 11:09:17 PMThey could well get a hammering if they are going to gift goals like that.
And again!!!
Scots have started like it's an independence referendum.
Edit: Var saved them. Lucky.
A bit of let off for Scotland there.
Got away with that.
Very very lucky.. Would sub that defender out, been horrific first 25
I mean wtf. I just don't get it, how can defending be so bad. Just as well there was a foul. Still reckon Scotland won't even have a shot- it's pathetic.
Mckenna equally crap @ the other end. I though Scotland had some decent players at good teams but those lads are playing in Saudi and croatia ffs
2-0 to Brazil now.
Can't even say Brazil look good - Scotland just been terrible defensively
Quote from: Blowitupref on June 24, 2026, 11:49:55 PM2-0 to Brazil now.
About 3 different mistakes there including the keeper.
Scotland have been torn apart. Could easily be 4-0.
Scotland are dung. No shots against Morocco or Brazil and were garbage against Haiti yet may still get out of the group :o
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 24, 2026, 11:57:19 PMScotland are dung. No shots against Morocco or Brazil and were garbage against Haiti yet may still get out of the group :o
Everyone could get out of the groups. Even Ireland
You see the goal that was disallowed?
Do people think it was a goal? Looking at the replay, I thought it was a clear foul.
This performance is an argument against Scottish independence.
There is no excuse for messing around at the back like that especially when there was a chance to move the ball on first time. Scotland look neat and tidy with their passing going forward but there's no end product. McGinn was too much on the periphery in the first half.
Quote from: Armamike on June 25, 2026, 12:22:26 AMThere is no excuse for messing around at the back like that especially when there was a chance to move the ball on first time. Scotland look neat and tidy with their passing going forward but there's no end product. McGinn was too much on the periphery in the first half.
The one and only time they whip a ball in the box they nearly scored then it's back to the pass, pass sideways backwards crap. Deserve to go home
Could still make second round because it's nearly impossible not to make it, but Scots spineless as usual.
Heading homeward ta think agin.
Quote from: BigGreenField on June 25, 2026, 12:13:27 AMThis performance is an argument against Scottish independence.
Should they be allowed compete anyways when they aren't a real country?
South Africa coming second in that group is a travesty for football.
Quote from: gallsman on June 25, 2026, 06:20:12 AMSouth Africa coming second in that group is a travesty for football.
The expansion to 48 is awful. So many poor teams, and some are going to squeeze through in 3rd position to stink out the place for another week. Dont know what the Czechs were at with 1 point as that group looked fine on paper. Mexico good but the other 2 are very iffy. Maybe it's a blessing we didn't get there after all
Quote from: gallsman on June 25, 2026, 06:20:12 AMSouth Africa coming second in that group is a travesty for football.
After watching first game V Mexico I can't believe they got through brutal. Canada v South Africa knockout game should automatically be put at 2.00am or 4.00am!
Quote from: statto on June 25, 2026, 08:00:11 AMQuote from: gallsman on June 25, 2026, 06:20:12 AMSouth Africa coming second in that group is a travesty for football.
After watching first game V Mexico I can't believe they got through brutal. Canada v South Africa knockout game should automatically be put at 2.00am or 4.00am!
Unfortunately not! Prime time slot of 8pm our time on Sunday evening.
Jesse Marsch looks like he would be hard work to play for.
He seems like an idiot.
Poor auld scotland look out too. They surely can't be worse than south africa. Surprised they beat South Korea who must be bad.
Have Scotland much of a chance? Goal difference might feck them.
No point moaning about the format, it's not going back to the old way, may as well let the minnows who'd never qualify otherwise enjoy themselves and fair play to them, support has been great. Just think of the group stages as warm up games for serious teams and the proper stuff will start from about the round of 16 on.
Scotland have been atrocious.
Don't understand the yapping about H2H, other than it's different to what people are used to. In a mini league where you play three games it's arguably a fairer tiebreaker. Most of the argument against it appears to be related to the impact it has on viewers on television.
Not as if it's new in football either. Used in plenty of competitions.
Quote from: gallsman on June 25, 2026, 08:42:26 AMScotland have been atrocious.
Is it really surprising? Greece played them off the park in bith matches of the qualifying but somehow managed to lose. Denmark should have beat them with ten men. They've some decent players but that keeper n centre halves trio is atrocious. Clarke deserves Credit for getting them there at all
Yeah, no issue with the H2H at all to be honest. As others have said, can't believe SA got through, they were woeful in that first game. To be fair to Canada they have tried to play abit of football for the most part and should beat SA. Your man Marsch comes across as a pure spoofer though.
Basically, theres 9 groups now n Scotland need 4 of them to finish with a 3rd place team worse off than them.
Some of thd groups look as though this will be the case. Others less so. But if an advantage for these teams as they know what they need to do.
That unexpected South Africa result last night could be the one that costs them. Scots waking up today after a heavy night last night would have been disgusted at that result
Hard to see them qualify looking through the groups. They'll probably not be worst third place but at best third worst.
Need a few to go their way just. I'd say its about 60/40 against them qualifying at this stage
Quote from: An Watcher on June 25, 2026, 09:48:27 AMNeed a few to go their way just. I'd say its about 60/40 against them qualifying at this stage
Im afraid they need to go home, think of all the great Scottish teams that haven't got out of a group. These guys play badly for 3 matches, so to somehow go through to the next round would be a joke.
Quote from: gallsman on June 25, 2026, 06:20:12 AMSouth Africa coming second in that group is a travesty for football.
Woke up this morning and seen they won and finished second. They were absolutely brutal first game , worse Scotland have been.
On another note , Scotland have to wait 4/5 days to see if they go through. That's brutal for fans to keep them hanging on at added expense .
No doubt there'll be 64 teams next time to stop this happening again ::)
The great scottish teams may be a stretch lol
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 25, 2026, 12:24:40 PMThe great scottish teams may be a stretch lol
Well great compared to this lot ;D . In fairness that 78 team could have won the world cup if they didn't shit the bed against Iran and Peru :o
;D
Tbf they have had some players over the years(even a couple now) to be very envious of. Some very poor ones too mind you.
They'll know Saturday night their time. Three groups being run off each day.
Any of you knowledgeable sorts know if the timings improve much for us Europeans as we move towards the important stuff?
Don't mind missing the overnight stuff as let's face it it's not do or die for the big guns but moving forward be pretty crap if the big matches are on overnight
There's a joke in there about it being ages since I had a semi during the night but we'll not go there
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 25, 2026, 01:22:47 PMAny of you knowledgeable sorts know if the timings improve much for us Europeans as we move towards the important stuff?
Don't mind missing the overnight stuff as let's face it it's not do or die for the big guns but moving forward be pretty crap if the big matches are on overnight
There's a joke in there about it being ages since I had a semi during the night but we'll not go there
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/schedule#KnockoutStage
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 25, 2026, 01:22:47 PMAny of you knowledgeable sorts know if the timings improve much for us Europeans as we move towards the important stuff?
Don't mind missing the overnight stuff as let's face it it's not do or die for the big guns but moving forward be pretty crap if the big matches are on overnight
There's a joke in there about it being ages since I had a semi during the night but we'll not go there
10/16 games in Last 32 are start between 5pm-11pm (Argentina game is at 11pm currently)
6 games in last 16 start between 5pm-10pm
1/4s - 8pm/9pm/10pm and one game at 2am
Semis - 8pm
Final - 8pm
(3rd place is 10pm)
Cheers lads. Bit better anyways
The Jocks hardly threw a punch in the 3 matches so if they go out the hardly did so on their sword. The energy the fans have brought has been one of the highlights of the tournament to date and they have been thoroughly let down by timid performances - I read that they have had less than 10 shots on goal in 3 matches!
Are there no big glipes in Scotland?
Lumping it up to a big man is at least a plan, instead of the turgid crap they served up
Clark fairly lives up to the stereotype of the dour Scotsman. At least the fans can go back home in the knowledge that they drank Boston dry and won over some American tourists who'll be off to the Highlands to find Brigadoon.
Quote from: weareros on June 25, 2026, 02:58:13 PMClark fairly lives up to the stereotype of the dour Scotsman. At least the fans can go back home in the knowledge that they drank Boston dry and won over some American tourists who'll be off to the Highlands to find Brigadoon.
...And Nessie, obviously.
Clarke doesn't come across well in post match interviews.
I know they got battered and the interview was straight after the match. Bit of a muppet.
Why not just skip the interview?
VAR once again favours the big nation.That was dangerous play by Germany, and yet no VAR review.
Quote from: weareros on June 25, 2026, 09:05:21 PMVAR once again favours the big nation.That was dangerous play by Germany, and yet no VAR review.
Crooked af not sure why anyone is bothering with it.
Ecuador bringing some championship intensity here.
The woman ref in the Germany game is brutal
Deserved second goal for Ecuador. Hope they hold on. This would be one the Scots were banking on Germans to draw/win.
Turned out to be a good game. Well done Ecuador and their manager, Howard Jones.
Brilliant stuff and thoroughly deserved. Caicedo has always been an engine but Christ there are nearly an entire team of them. Serious effort.
Quote from: weareros on June 25, 2026, 10:39:03 PMDeserved second goal for Ecuador. Hope they hold on. This would be one the Scots were banking on Germans to draw/win.
Turned out to be a good game. Well done Ecuador and their manager, Howard Jones.
Bad result for the Scots alright.
Ecuadorians are going to party like it's 1997
That's some celebration
As it stands now, Group E is a hellish group. out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Position 1 : As it stands Netherlands will play Morocco
Position 2 : As it stands Japan will play Brazil
Position 3 : As it stands Sweden will play France
Thoroughly enjoyable tournament so far, apart from the hydration breaks.
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 25, 2026, 11:12:44 PMThoroughly enjoyable tournament so far, apart from the hydration breaks.
Have you watched much of it?
As I thought would be the case I have only seen bits and pieces of the group stages and a few highlights here and there. I'd imagine when we get into the last 32/last 16 I'll be more glued to it. Shaping up to have some good last 16 matches as it stands - Spain/Portugal & France/Germany.
Scotland should get the flights booked home. More or less gone at this stage barring a miracle.
Quote from: RedHand88 on June 25, 2026, 11:12:44 PMThoroughly enjoyable tournament so far, apart from the hydration breaks.
Definitely have enjoyed some of the games. The madness you get with south american fans is great too.
Love the norwegian thing they do with the drum as well.
Quote from: square_ball on June 26, 2026, 10:56:25 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on June 25, 2026, 11:12:44 PMThoroughly enjoyable tournament so far, apart from the hydration breaks.
Have you watched much of it?
As I thought would be the case I have only seen bits and pieces of the group stages and a few highlights here and there. I'd imagine when we get into the last 32/last 16 I'll be more glued to it. Shaping up to have some good last 16 matches as it stands - Spain/Portugal & France/Germany.
Scotland should get the flights booked home. More or less gone at this stage barring a miracle.
I think it was 42% after their game.....now, after last night, down to 5%.
Pack the bags.
The highlight service on bbc iplayer is good, 10/12 minutes of the games best bits, for those games after bed time
Scotland could yet make it
Some (at least two) of these results need to go for them , which aren't that unlikely
Spain to beat Uruguay
Egypt to beat Iran
Austria to beat Algeria by 2+
Senegal failing to beat Iraq
DR Congo fail to beat Uzbekistan
Mad to think a team who played so poorly could still advance. Although their fans have at least been entertaining
Good riddance to Scotland and their fans
No love for either although thst could be sour grapes as to them being there and we're not
Quote from: An Watcher on June 26, 2026, 05:24:44 PMGood riddance to Scotland and their fans
No love for either although thst could be sour grapes as to them being there and we're not
Yeah it is...
Quote from: An Watcher on June 26, 2026, 05:24:44 PMGood riddance to Scotland and their fans
No love for either although thst could be sour grapes as to them being there and we're not
Can't abide them. Even though most hardcore Rangers support England, there's always an element of anti-Irish bigots in the Tartan Army. They sing about sending Proud Edward homewards but still love their Royals and even pro-Independence lot planned to keep allegiance to King/Queen. No backbone to the Scots at all.
This could get ugly for Norway
Some left foot on Dembele.
Great hat trick by Dembele
With Senegal 1 up and Iraq with a red, that's another not going the Scots way. Low road back to Loch Lomond. I know I said I can't abide them but it must be an absolutely misery watching every group play out to their disadvantage so far. There's a few coming up that should swing their way, but will it be enough.
Now need 4 of the last 5 groups to go their way. 3 could. Bagpipes not deflated yet.
Quote from: Blowitupref on June 26, 2026, 08:31:57 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 26, 2026, 08:23:28 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 26, 2026, 08:22:31 PMThis could get ugly for Norway
Or not
A wise move to make 10 changes to their starting 11?
Win they play Sweden. Losing that definitely costs a manager his job. Lose and it's the Ivory Coast
Quote from: weareros on June 26, 2026, 08:34:34 PMSome left foot on Dembele.
That was news for the Norwegian defense. Dembele uniquely managed or was allowed to do a hatrick of three of the same.
Quote from: Main Street on June 26, 2026, 09:55:04 PMQuote from: weareros on June 26, 2026, 08:34:34 PMSome left foot on Dembele.
That was news for the Norwegian defense. Dembele uniquely managed or was allowed to do a hatrick of three of the same.
It was like watching a replay of the same goals. Reminds me of the RTE skit when Dermot Morgan and Brush Shields played Giles and Dunphy for 3rd place game (think 1986 World Cup) and acted like they thought the replay was French lad scoring a similar goal to his last one. Dunphy was pissed that RTE made a mockery of the 3rd place game. I think he didn't show up for final.
Quote from: weareros on June 26, 2026, 10:02:01 PMQuote from: Main Street on June 26, 2026, 09:55:04 PMQuote from: weareros on June 26, 2026, 08:34:34 PMSome left foot on Dembele.
That was news for the Norwegian defense. Dembele uniquely managed or was allowed to do a hatrick of three of the same.
It was like watching a replay of the same goals. Reminds me of the RTE skit when Dermot Morgan and Brush Shields played Giles and Dunphy for 3rd place game (think 1986 World Cup) and acted like they thought the replay was French lad scoring a similar goal to his last one. Dunphy was pissed that RTE made a mockery of the 3rd place game. I think he didn't show up for final.
This all sounds like a dream :o
The match between Algeria and Austria could be interesting. A draw would see both teams progress. Given that Austria did the dirt on Algeria in 1982 might they be prepared to make amends this time?
Uruguay can feck off home anyway. That lad Cabobbio could have been sent off a few times over and then went for the ref at the end.
The nutty professor bit from Bielsa wore very thin and the players clearly disliked him. They were muck throughout.
But I am delighted for Pico Lopes who is getting so much I know he is a Rovers legend but he could cash in fro one season in Saudi and he'd be well set financially.
So Scotland only need Austria to beat Algeria 2-0, and Ghana to beat Croatia 3-0
Imagine if that actually happened ;D
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on June 27, 2026, 06:27:09 AMThe match between Algeria and Austria could be interesting. A draw would see both teams progress. Given that Austria did the dirt on Algeria in 1982 might they be prepared to make amends this time?
Both teams need to lose.
Winner plays Spain, loser USA.
Interesting indeed.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 27, 2026, 12:12:51 PMQuote from: Dougal Maguire on June 27, 2026, 06:27:09 AMThe match between Algeria and Austria could be interesting. A draw would see both teams progress. Given that Austria did the dirt on Algeria in 1982 might they be prepared to make amends this time?
Both teams need to lose.
Winner plays Spain, loser USA.
Interesting indeed.
There is not as much between those teams as people think. I would not be suprised if USA went further.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 27, 2026, 12:06:39 PMSo Scotland only need Austria to beat Algeria 2-0, and Ghana to beat Croatia 3-0
Imagine if that actually happened ;D
Who's the most corrupt here that could allow these results to happen?
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 27, 2026, 12:06:39 PMSo Scotland only need Austria to beat Algeria 2-0, and Ghana to beat Croatia 3-0
Imagine if that actually happened ;D
Also need DR Congo not to beat Ubekestan. After Iran grabbed a point, they now need all 3 3rd place teams in the last three groups today to fall behind them. They should already be on the plane home.
They have a 0.07% chance according to BBC Scotland. English feckers having a good laugh.
https://x.com/wakeywhite/status/2070834471411056958?s=46
Must be a bizarre atmosphere. Sitting in a hotel since Wednesday, presumably still training away, knowing it's for nothing. And a fairly significant cost to the SFA too.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 27, 2026, 01:14:21 PMMust be a bizarre atmosphere. Sitting in a hotel since Wednesday, presumably still training away, knowing it's for nothing. And a fairly significant cost to the SFA too.
Yeah - terrible stuff, you'd presume that they have psychologically checked out at this stage and the main bags are packed
Quote from: weareros on June 27, 2026, 12:59:28 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 27, 2026, 12:06:39 PMSo Scotland only need Austria to beat Algeria 2-0, and Ghana to beat Croatia 3-0
Imagine if that actually happened ;D
Also need DR Congo not to beat Ubekestan. After Iran grabbed a point, they now need all 3 3rd place teams in the last three groups today to fall behind them. They should already be on the plane home.
They have a 0.07% chance according to BBC Scotland. English feckers having a good laugh.
https://x.com/wakeywhite/status/2070834471411056958?s=46
Even long shots make it through..
So they have a chance? ;D
They'll be on the Iron Bru by now
What's all the controversy around the Iran disallowed goal? It looks clear offside too me.
Twitter just full of people gone full conspiracy mode
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 27, 2026, 04:07:47 PMWhat's all the controversy around the Iran disallowed goal? It looks clear offside too me.
Twitter just full of people gone full conspiracy mode
Most casual fans don't understand it's 2 defenders. Twitter is just being twitter
Am I being naive here, but did Mick McCarthy make a mistake letting Pico Lopes walk out the door?
I don't think he would have nailed down a first team place long term, but Ireland have played the likes of Keogh, an obviously declined Duffy, O'Toole, Boyle, Pearce and Arter at centre half. He seems far superior to them.
At least HH has capped players based at home, but O'Neill and Kenny ignored them. McCarthy played Byrne and Burke and nobody else.
Brown eyed girl , Sweet Caroline and Jump Around all played within half hour of each other watching the England match.
What sort of hell is this?
Jez Panama are sh1te and England are no better.
Quote from: From the Bunker on June 27, 2026, 10:43:45 PMJez Panama are sh1te and England are no better.
Very poor standard here.. Southgate In
Lopes has done better not being with ROI, I doubt he would have got this far as an occasional squad player.
Panama England is really s**t.
Alessia Russo looked a lot better than she usually does in her appearance pre game.
Quote from: GTP on June 27, 2026, 10:55:22 PMLopes has done better not being with ROI, I doubt he would have got this far as an occasional squad player.
Panama England is really s**t.
Quote from: GTP on June 27, 2026, 10:55:22 PMLopes has done better not being with ROI, I doubt he would have got this far as an occasional squad player.
Panama England is really s**t.
Quote from: GTP on June 27, 2026, 10:55:22 PMLopes has done better not being with ROI, I doubt he would have got this far as an occasional squad player.
Panama England is really s**t.
Quote from: GTP on June 27, 2026, 10:55:22 PMLopes has done better not being with ROI, I doubt he would have got this far as an occasional squad player.
Panama England is really s**t.
I went with Ghana v Croatia. Probably not much better than England Panama but at least there is a goal.
This is absolute dross
Two blatant fouls by Quansah. Zero yellows
1-0 to England and seconds goal arrives soon after.
Handball, surely??
Scots finally out of their misery. Jaysus to have to watch all those games on top of having to watch themselves must have been pure torture.
Seems it wasn't only Kerry who got a lot of decisions in their favour tonight
Panama weren't great but poor refereeing decisions led to the two England goals.
Quansah should have seen red , Panama a penalty, and England man with a thigh high scythe, no card.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 28, 2026, 12:01:06 AMSeems it wasn't only Kerry who got a lot of decisions in their favour tonight
Panama weren't great but poor refereeing decisions led to the two England goals.
Quansah should have seen red , Panama a penalty, and England man with a thigh high scythe, no card.
Infantino clearly has issued directions especially regarding the top teams.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 28, 2026, 12:02:33 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on June 28, 2026, 12:01:06 AMSeems it wasn't only Kerry who got a lot of decisions in their favour tonight
Panama weren't great but poor refereeing decisions led to the two England goals.
Quansah should have seen red , Panama a penalty, and England man with a thigh high scythe, no card.
Infantino clearly has issued directions especially regarding the top teams.
FIFa is now following the rules of war. Big nations can get away with hell. And can be blatant about it. Complain and you'll be met with an ignorant grin. Penalty calls to smaller nations are now fake news.
As an aside and I'm slightly bored of the pre match shizzle and thought I knew all the good anthems but jees columbias isn't bad and they gave it a fair old rattle
Steve Clarke resigned. It was a shameful attempt, so the right thing to do.
Tuchel's (addictive?) experience with dogging it out eventually filtered through to his team this evening to get the requisite result.
If Ubekistan win (1 up at half time) it will add insult to injury; that was the only match up that certain not to swing their way.
Long flight home.
Poor auld bastards.
My heart was broken. Sorrow, sorrow, sorrow...
Thats Var a real mess to games, it should be your main body mass,u torso area to be the deciding factor, not a f**king toe.Pure piss!
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on June 28, 2026, 02:29:21 AMThats Var a real mess to games, it should be your main body mass,u torso area to be the deciding factor, not a f**king toe.Pure piss!
Wtf is a main body mass and how does it be legislated into the rules?
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on June 28, 2026, 02:29:21 AMThats Var a real mess to games, it should be your main body mass,u torso area to be the deciding factor, not a f**king toe.Pure piss!
Nothing to do with VAR though. That's the rule, on or over.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 28, 2026, 11:16:46 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on June 28, 2026, 02:29:21 AMThats Var a real mess to games, it should be your main body mass,u torso area to be the deciding factor, not a f**king toe.Pure piss!
Nothing to do with VAR though. That's the rule, on or over.
Offside rule has existed since 1863. So I don't think VAR can be blamed for it.
So we are at the last 32.
Let's have a look at the state of play.
32 out of 48 teams still in so 67% are through.
13 out of 16 UEFA teams made it - 81%
5 out of 6 South American teams - 83%
9 out of 10 African teams -90%. This is a great stat, I wasnt expecting it at all, yes Egypt and Morocco and the likes can play but teams like Congo and Algeria also played well to get thru and even crappy South Africa found a way into the last 32.
Now to the messy bit
Concacaf 3 out of 6 thru -50%. You need to remember that 3 hosts are seeded so get a handy draw which probably helped improve that stat. Usa and Mexico you would expect to go thru. Canada give things a go but aren't great but good luck to them. The rest are poor
Oceania
0 out of 1 - 0%
New Zealand pretty much guaranteed qualification forever, should only qualify through an intercontinental playoff to make it fair
Asia 2 out of 9 - 22%
This is the elephant in the room. The Asian teams are crap and this is surprising to noone. Japan are good. Korea are usually good but missed out this time but the rest are junk. Australia are not even Asian joined the federation because they kept failing to win the intercontinental play off and realised that joining Asia against joke teams was the way forward. The head of this federation is doing a great job, how he scammed 9 teams into the world cup is incredible. UEFA with all its power and money only got 3 extra places when things expanded and the result is Italy are not there among a number of other decent teams.
The way forward to even things up is to have all the playoff teams from across the world to be in a draw, that would get rid of the crap before the actual tournament proper kicks off
I thought it was the opposite with Australia. They were winning Oceania with ease and were going into tournaments after facing Guam and American Samoa. Asia is far tougher so they decided to risk an occasional non qualifying cycle to play half decent opposition.
Remember they beat American Samoa 31 - 0 with an entirely domestic team before it was professional? Archie Thompson got 13 and was dropped from the next squad when the European based players returned.
Italy are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 28, 2026, 01:40:06 PMI thought it was the opposite with Australia. They were winning Oceania with ease and were going into tournaments after facing Guam and American Samoa. Asia is far tougher so they decided to risk an occasional non qualifying cycle to play half decent opposition.
Remember they beat American Samoa 31 - 0 with an entirely domestic team before it was professional? Archie Thompson got 13 and was dropped from the next squad when the European based players returned.
No before Oceania got a slot the winner(Australia) would have a play off against a team from South America which they kept losing they also had a play off once against Iran and lost. The automatic spots in Asia were a tempting alternate pathway for them
Quote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 02:20:24 PMItaly are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Italy are crap but they would be better than about 20 teams there. I would rather have crap European teams there than even worse teams from Asia or wherever. Why should geographical location give you a massive unfair advantage in qualifying
Here Brazil won 8 times outta 18 games in qualifying, in the European set up u not qualify if u lose 2/3 games
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 02:33:54 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 02:20:24 PMItaly are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Italy are crap but they would be better than about 20 teams there. I would rather have crap European teams there than even worse teams from Asia or wherever. Why should geographical location give you a massive unfair advantage in qualifying
Because that's where all the people live?
In addition to being a corrupt political organisation, FIFA are also in the business of making money in every corner of the globe without any ethical standards, and that's where they'll expand to more crap teams. Decades ago Dunphy called it the Snickers World Cup, an innocent enough quip. Now it's the Aramco World Cup, football brought to you by the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 04, 2026, 11:36:55 PMQuoteSunday 28th June:
20:00 - Round of 32
When I might start watching or paying much attention.
The majority of shadow boxing over time for me to start watching now.
I would hold off until tomorrow...
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 02:33:54 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 02:20:24 PMItaly are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Italy are crap but they would be better than about 20 teams there. I would rather have crap European teams there than even worse teams from Asia or wherever. Why should geographical location give you a massive unfair advantage in qualifying
Because it's the World Cup.
And nothing unfair about Italy failing to qualify three times in a row.
Look at Cape Verde. Only there because of an expansion, story of the tournament. Would Bulgaria have added more to the tournament?
Quote from: weareros on June 28, 2026, 04:02:23 PMIn addition to being a corrupt political organisation, FIFA are also in the business of making money in every corner of the globe without any ethical standards, and that's where they'll expand to more crap teams. Decades ago Dunphy called it the Snickers World Cup, an innocent enough quip. Now it's the Aramco World Cup, football brought to you by the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter.
How do FIFA make more money off Curacao being there than Italy?
Keep it on the road
Lads how was that not a penalty???
Tough watch after watching All-Ireland Quarter-finals today.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 28, 2026, 08:45:52 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 02:33:54 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 02:20:24 PMItaly are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Italy are crap but they would be better than about 20 teams there. I would rather have crap European teams there than even worse teams from Asia or wherever. Why should geographical location give you a massive unfair advantage in qualifying
Because it's the World Cup.
And nothing unfair about Italy failing to qualify three times in a row.
Look at Cape Verde. Only there because of an expansion, story of the tournament. Would Bulgaria have added more to the tournament?
Cape Verde is a good story especially with the Irish lad so fair enough and the African teams are doing really well, my main issue is with Asia, funny that you didn't mention any of the rubbish like Qatar or Uzbekistan that are stinking the place out. You are correct it is the world cup and teams from all over the world have been there for decades Korea were about in 66 so it already was global no need to try and over represent with pub teams.
They're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 28, 2026, 08:43:31 PMI would hold off until tomorrow...
Think I'll wait another few days yet
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 09:25:42 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on June 28, 2026, 08:45:52 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 02:33:54 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 02:20:24 PMItaly are not there because they're crap. No other reason. They're not missed either
Infantino and FIFA are an utter joke but "let's have more crap European teams" in it is a solution to nothing. The WC has always had shite teams. An enlarged WC will have more shite teams.
Of the Asian teams that went out, Iran were utterly f**king screwed over by the US and still only went out because a toenail was offside and a 96th minute equaliser. Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the greatest WC upsets of all time against Australia in 2022.
Italy are crap but they would be better than about 20 teams there. I would rather have crap European teams there than even worse teams from Asia or wherever. Why should geographical location give you a massive unfair advantage in qualifying
Because it's the World Cup.
And nothing unfair about Italy failing to qualify three times in a row.
Look at Cape Verde. Only there because of an expansion, story of the tournament. Would Bulgaria have added more to the tournament?
Cape Verde is a good story especially with the Irish lad so fair enough and the African teams are doing really well, my main issue is with Asia, funny that you didn't mention any of the rubbish like Qatar or Uzbekistan that are stinking the place out. You are correct it is the world cup and teams from all over the world have been there for decades Korea were about in 66 so it already was global no need to try and over represent with pub teams.
Cape Verde topped their group that included Cameroon. They qualified on merit.
Thank Christ for that. South Africa had looked more likely to score as well.
Exactly. Just glad that's over.
More happy don't have to sit through another 30 mins. Canada looked a bigger threat when Davies came on - SA very negative
Didn't think it was that bad, even could say I enjoyed it 💁.
Jesse seems to like making it about him as he encourages the applause for him to milk.
Quote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 10:34:49 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
Lots of silliness of both sides here.
2/3rds of that 60% live in either India or China. So your presentation of facts is quite Trumpesque.
But at the same time there is only one truly global sport. Much as I hate 48 team world cups, there is no need to fill a global celebration with a chunky percentage of mediocre European teams (like Scotland, Ireland and Wales) who have somewhere between 0.07% and 0% chance of winning the competition. If Italy can't find a way to climb past that mediocrity in qualifying, then arrivederci.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 10:34:49 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
If they meet the qualification standards they are in. But most countries don't have an ice hockey team.
There are more international sides than countries and every country has a soccer team.
What you are arguing is pick the top 48 ranked teams. OK- then Italy, Denmark, Russia, Poland, Wales, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia, Greece and Venezuela would replace South Africa, Tunisia, Saudi, Qatar, Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Bosnia and Iraq.
Slightly better quality, anti craic.
Quote from: thewobbler on June 28, 2026, 10:56:21 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 10:34:49 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
Lots of silliness of both sides here.
2/3rds of that 60% live in either India or China. So your presentation of facts is quite Trumpesque.
But at the same time there is only one truly global sport. Much as I hate 48 team world cups, there is no need to fill a global celebration with a chunky percentage of mediocre European teams (like Scotland, Ireland and Wales) who have somewhere between 0.07% and 0% chance of winning the competition. If Italy can't find a way to climb past that mediocrity in qualifying, then arrivederci.
Fine, you want to look at it another way?
Uefa has 55 members, of whom 16 made it to the world cup. That's nearly 30% of Uefa teams make the World Cup. Those 16 teams are a THIRD of all teams at the tournament.
9 of 47 AFC nations qualified, which is less than 20%. One of those, Iraq, had to qualify via an intercontinental playoff for which Uefa teams are not eligible. In order to win they had to beat Bolivia, a CONMEBOL side.
There is no overrepresentation of Asian teams. If someone wants to watch more crap European sides playing each other the Euros will be rolling around again in a couple of years.
Quote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 06:59:04 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 28, 2026, 10:56:21 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 10:34:49 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
Lots of silliness of both sides here.
2/3rds of that 60% live in either India or China. So your presentation of facts is quite Trumpesque.
But at the same time there is only one truly global sport. Much as I hate 48 team world cups, there is no need to fill a global celebration with a chunky percentage of mediocre European teams (like Scotland, Ireland and Wales) who have somewhere between 0.07% and 0% chance of winning the competition. If Italy can't find a way to climb past that mediocrity in qualifying, then arrivederci.
Fine, you want to look at it another way?
Uefa has 55 members, of whom 16 made it to the world cup. That's nearly 30% of Uefa teams make the World Cup. Those 16 teams are a THIRD of all teams at the tournament.
9 of 47 AFC nations qualified, which is less than 20%. One of those, Iraq, had to qualify via an intercontinental playoff for which Uefa teams are not eligible. In order to win they had to beat Bolivia, a CONMEBOL side.
There is no overrepresentation of Asian teams. If someone wants to watch more crap European sides playing each other the Euros will be rolling around again in a couple of years.
I don't think we are going to agree on this one ;D . The sensible solution is to go back in time and have a max if 32 teams at the world cup( would prefer 24) and 16 @ the Euros that way only good teams are there no matter where they come from and all the pub teams can watch from home like the rest of us.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2026, 08:50:10 AMQuote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 06:59:04 AMQuote from: thewobbler on June 28, 2026, 10:56:21 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 28, 2026, 10:34:49 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 28, 2026, 09:43:41 PMThey're not over represented. 60% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Ok so quality isn't a factor great, I'm looking forward to Africa getting their fair share at the next ice hockey olympics.
Lots of silliness of both sides here.
2/3rds of that 60% live in either India or China. So your presentation of facts is quite Trumpesque.
But at the same time there is only one truly global sport. Much as I hate 48 team world cups, there is no need to fill a global celebration with a chunky percentage of mediocre European teams (like Scotland, Ireland and Wales) who have somewhere between 0.07% and 0% chance of winning the competition. If Italy can't find a way to climb past that mediocrity in qualifying, then arrivederci.
Fine, you want to look at it another way?
Uefa has 55 members, of whom 16 made it to the world cup. That's nearly 30% of Uefa teams make the World Cup. Those 16 teams are a THIRD of all teams at the tournament.
9 of 47 AFC nations qualified, which is less than 20%. One of those, Iraq, had to qualify via an intercontinental playoff for which Uefa teams are not eligible. In order to win they had to beat Bolivia, a CONMEBOL side.
There is no overrepresentation of Asian teams. If someone wants to watch more crap European sides playing each other the Euros will be rolling around again in a couple of years.
I don't think we are going to agree on this one ;D . The sensible solution is to go back in time and have a max if 32 teams at the world cup( would prefer 24) and 16 @ the Euros that way only good teams are there no matter where they come from and all the pub teams can watch from home like the rest of us.
Think at this point we need to accept that the WC is bigger than just a football tourmament.
This is why the Euros will probably remain the premier tournament in terms of the quality of games.
The Euros has always been a better, higher quality tournament. The expansion has destroyed it.
When it comes to the last 4 or last 8 bar a proper underdog story it'll still be the best teams and if any of the so called cannon fodder gets that far then fair play to them, expanded tournament harms no one and only serves to give smaller countries the experience of a lifetime for players and fans. Cabo Verde managed to come second, brilliant for them!
Families of two football players killed and injured in Venezuela earthquakes
Lucas Trejo of Argentina loses wife and two children while Héctor Bello's partner dies saving their daughter. Horrible news
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/29/families-of-football-stars-hector-bello-lucas-trejo-killed-venezuela-earthquakes
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on June 28, 2026, 09:46:42 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on June 28, 2026, 08:43:31 PMI would hold off until tomorrow...
Think I'll wait another few days yet
Made an error to start watching yesterday. Maybe today will be improvement with the likes of Germany,Brazil in action.
I have a funny feeling Japan will win this.
Quote from: AustinPowers on June 29, 2026, 06:01:35 PMI have a funny feeling Japan will win this.
Have the same feeling.. Look good so far, lot of energy in their play.
Great goal!
Will take some effort and trickery to break these lads down, that said Brazil have that, problem is they are poor in midfield and defence isn't that great
Casimero is a terrible player
Quote from: galwayman on June 29, 2026, 06:45:37 PMCasimero is a terrible player
Was just going to say that. He needs hooked at half-time.
Japan well worth their lead. They bring a good energy.
👀
Quote from: marty34 on June 29, 2026, 06:50:44 PMQuote from: galwayman on June 29, 2026, 06:45:37 PMCasimero is a terrible player
Was just going to say that. He needs hooked at half-time.
Japan well worth their lead. They bring a good energy.
Casimero was reading your posts at half time lads.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 29, 2026, 07:21:44 PMQuote from: marty34 on June 29, 2026, 06:50:44 PMQuote from: galwayman on June 29, 2026, 06:45:37 PMCasimero is a terrible player
Was just going to say that. He needs hooked at half-time.
Japan well worth their lead. They bring a good energy.
Casimero was reading your posts at half time lads.
Lol. Spoke too soon.
No VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
Quote from: galwayman on June 29, 2026, 06:45:37 PMCasimero is a terrible player
Played well for United when Carrick took over. He's no longer a shutdown DM for sure, but still capable of opening up defences.
Quote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
VAR review every goal
Quote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
From initial cross I thought he was offside, they should the replay was onside no doubt.
Quote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
Can you really
Heartbreaking for Japan.
Heartbreaking. Not the first time Japan have been too casual on the ball in and around their own box though. Sometimes it's ok to just f**king hoof the thing clear.
Fair play to Brazil. Rub of the green that ye need. Hope Case is alright would love to see him get a world cup but would need some improvement.
Quote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 07:55:47 PMQuote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
Can you really
Yes. Zoom in on that. Unless the Japan defender has a third limb, you can see boot well in an offside position.
https://x.com/touchlinex/status/2071659602043625798?s=46
Quote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 08:00:51 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 07:55:47 PMQuote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
Can you really
Yes. Zoom in on that. Unless the Japan defender has a third limb, you can see boot well in an offside position.
https://x.com/touchlinex/status/2071659602043625798?s=46
Nonsense.
Quote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 08:05:01 PMQuote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 08:00:51 PMQuote from: gallsman on June 29, 2026, 07:55:47 PMQuote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 07:25:25 PMNo VAR review on Brazil goal. Looked offside. You can see his boot ahead of last defender.
Can you really
Yes. Zoom in on that. Unless the Japan defender has a third limb, you can see boot well in an offside position.
https://x.com/touchlinex/status/2071659602043625798?s=46
Nonsense.
You don't see Casimiro's red boot then a good half foot ahead of last defenders toe as ball is kicked. The defenders arm does not keep him onside as it doesn't count.
Germany don't look particularly impressive.
Neuers positioning wasn't great for that goal. Nice bit of play from Paraguay all the same
Sane, havertz and wirtz all look like players with skill but just not much fight in them.
Good to see the Rudy Völler look still alive in Germsny.
Shearer hates germany
Joke. Keeper hardly touched. Not all contact is a foul
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 29, 2026, 11:48:48 PMJoke. Keeper hardly touched. Not all contact is a foul
Very soft but the number 3 is there trying to mess/distract the keeper he knew what he was doing
Quote from: weareros on June 29, 2026, 11:22:59 PMGood to see the Rudy Völler look still alive in Germsny.
What would Frank Rijkaard think of Völler's hair still on display after all these years?
Did they just say neither team has lost a WC peno shootout?
Someone's 0 has got to go
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on June 29, 2026, 11:52:46 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 29, 2026, 11:48:48 PMJoke. Keeper hardly touched. Not all contact is a foul
Very soft but the number 3 is there trying to mess/distract the keeper he knew what he was doing
Maybe but he just stood his ground. Ifd he'd moved his feet to get into a position to impede the keeper i could understand it but he didn't.
This is mad Ted!
Germany have become England in a penalty shootout.
The absolute state of those penalties ffs
Jesus Christ Paraguay you made that hard for yourselves!
Mental shootout. Germany blew it big time. Shearer is hard to listen to.
Good riddance to that version of a German team, considering the quality of their players they are tactically inept, reduced to pumping ball after ball into the box for the big lads, meat and drink for the Paraguayan defenders. Chilavert would´ve loved that type of game and a shoot out for dessert.
Don't waste your energy beating Curacao 7 1 in the early games. Save your energy for the knock out games. Argentina lost their opening game 2-1 to Saudi Arabia before winning the last world cup.
The Dutch will be next to go. They're a bit shit too
Home in time for the Twelfth
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 29, 2026, 11:48:48 PMJoke. Keeper hardly touched. Not all contact is a foul
It generally is on the keeper though
Germany v poor but still unlucky. Nite all, good luck to anyone staying up for next match which could be a cracker
Dutch out
Just watched the Dutch Morocco highlights. Do those Dutch lads ever practise penalties FFS. They have a desperate record in shootouts
Caught up on the highlights. Two utterly atrocious shootouts.
Brilliant penalty save by the Moroccan keeper; didn't dive, just stepped well across to his right before penalty was taken, so it was straight at him. I've never seen that before
Cracking goal from Ivory Coast.
Amad was afjorded too much room there
Haaland tried his best to make a balls of that.
Damn. Was hoping that long lug would be sent back to his fjord.
No idea how Odegaard didn't get booked at least once in that game.
Some save from the GK to keep it 2-1. Haaland looked emotional there at the end
Haaland looks like good craic. Odegard with near enough a black card at the end there.
Sweden actually look to have a bit of pace though they look limited enough too despite that.
Bon Jovi earning plenty of royalties at this world cup anyway
Maybe he's a mate of Infantino
He's a New Jersey lad so works well
That French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Quote from: imtommygunn on June 30, 2026, 10:15:50 PMHaaland looks like good craic. Odegard with near enough a black card at the end there.
Sweden actually look to have a bit of pace though they look limited enough too despite that.
When you look at the Swedes team they are actually very strong.
Front three have been bought for around 300 million or more.
Spurs abd Brighton players in midfield too. Couple of other strong players from around Europe.
Quote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:17:31 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
At least 200 anyway as Isak was 125m and the Arsenal lad was around 70m.
Olise is the best player in world.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:31:34 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:17:31 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
At least 200 anyway as Isak was 125m and the Arsenal lad was around 70m.
Isak 150 million euro
Gyokeres 73.5 million euros
Elanga 61.5 million euro
285 million euro so I was a small bit strong.
France v Argentina final again please
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 30, 2026, 11:35:15 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:31:34 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:17:31 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
At least 200 anyway as Isak was 125m and the Arsenal lad was around 70m.
Isak 150 million euro
Gyokeres 73.5 million euros
Elanga 61.5 million euro
285 million euro so I was a small bit strong.
Don't go apologising to him :P
France will not be easy beat. Germany losing will also benefit them.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:36:51 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 30, 2026, 11:35:15 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:31:34 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:17:31 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
At least 200 anyway as Isak was 125m and the Arsenal lad was around 70m.
Isak 150 million euro
Gyokeres 73.5 million euros
Elanga 61.5 million euro
285 million euro so I was a small bit strong.
Don't go apologising to him :P
Ahhhh we doing euros
I was still right 😜😜
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:41:58 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:36:51 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on June 30, 2026, 11:35:15 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on June 30, 2026, 11:31:34 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on June 30, 2026, 11:17:31 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on June 30, 2026, 10:47:54 PMThat French front 4 as good as I've seen, pace is frightening
Great to watch
300 mill maybe a bit strong for the front three u mention Bann
At least 200 anyway as Isak was 125m and the Arsenal lad was around 70m.
Isak 150 million euro
Gyokeres 73.5 million euros
Elanga 61.5 million euro
285 million euro so I was a small bit strong.
Don't go apologising to him :P
Ahhhh we doing euros
I was still right 😜😜
Should've said dollars would been bang on the money then
Are you ally mccpist? He's just been doing the same calculation 😄
Anyway, great performance while coasting. I have them in a sweepstake so am definitely team France 🤝🙌
Goodbye to Sweden who very much looked like the team tonight that finished bottom of their European Qualifying group without a win.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on June 30, 2026, 11:55:23 PMGoodbye to Sweden who very much looked like the team tonight that finished bottom of their European Qualifying group without a win.
Ireland's performance wouldn't have been far away from the European play-off winners that are here: Turkey, Czechia, Bosnia and Sweden.
Find that auld American football padding around Giants Stadium very distracting. But French team are a joy to watch. Hope they go all the way.
Expecting a muy caliente spectacle between Mexico and Ecuador. Hope it lives up to the billing.
Solid win for Mexico.
Helps playing 2000ft above sea level.
England, if the beat DRC, will find that tricky.
England will get mauled by Mexico, can't wait to watch Bellingham out himself as a total me feiner as the ship starts to sink
If Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Quote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
France look pretty awesome
Have Norway down to beat Brazil
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
If they were playing like the French then fair enough but 8 minutes of highlights on Monday morning is more than enough for me. Tbh, those highlights are great for every soccer match
Quote from: An Watcher on July 01, 2026, 11:26:31 AMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
If they were playing like the French then fair enough but 8 minutes of highlights on Monday morning is more than enough for me. Tbh, those highlights are great for every soccer match
The BBC iplayer highlights are great! No need for any aul shite talk
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 12:36:25 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Could see a tabloid headline after a Kane penalty flies over the crossbar: Missed by a Mile.
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 12:36:25 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Ah, I wasn't far off
Jesus Austin they're naw playing on the moon ffs 😂🤣
England's World cup campaign looks set up to end in Mexico in Azteca stadium?
Thanks Captain, hadn't realised that reading the thread today.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 01:11:47 PMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 12:36:25 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Ah, I wasn't far off
;D The Karman Line which is where space starts is 62 miles up!
I think a comfortable 2-0 win this evening for England.
And then an uncomfortable 2-1 win against the Mexicans.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 01, 2026, 01:50:39 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 01:11:47 PMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 12:36:25 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Ah, I wasn't far off
;D The Karman Line which is where space starts is 62 miles up!
150 miles is 27 Mount Everests on top of each other....
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 01:57:08 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 01, 2026, 01:50:39 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 01:11:47 PMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 01, 2026, 12:36:25 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 12:29:30 PMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 01, 2026, 10:37:35 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 10:12:54 AMIf Mex-Eng game happens, it'll be come on ye boys in green.
Game is at fecking 1am Monday Morning / Sunday night though. Not ideal. Hard not to stay up for that one though.
I'd gladly stay up all night to see those feckers beat.
Apparently the Aztec stadium is 150 miles* up or something, and opposing teams find it very difficult to play there. Hopefully that will be the deciding factor for Mexico.
* Might be wrong on the exact number but it sounds true
Its 2.2km above sea level....
Ah, I wasn't far off
;D The Karman Line which is where space starts is 62 miles up!
150 miles is 27 Mount Everests on top of each other....
No oxygen issues then? ;D
Quote from: square_ball on July 01, 2026, 01:53:43 PMI think a comfortable 2-0 win this evening for England.
And then an uncomfortable 2-1 win against the Mexicans.
I think the hombres will be the Gringos and send them home packing!!!
Sorry but I had to laugh at this. Maybe they're playing on the moon
(https://i.ibb.co/Kjf7rzNK/Screenshot-20260701-162446-Facebook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FbyJDqsH)
Austin's going to be delighted
Enjoyed that!
(https://i.ibb.co/DffSZ0Kw/Screenshot-20260701-170847-Facebook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/CKKTfR0V)
These lads are class. Pressing all over the pitch.
Bafana Bafana
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 01, 2026, 05:07:52 PMAustin's going to be delighted
Some boy on Congogaaboard is informing his fans that the pitch is 150m up in the sky
*Miles not metres
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 01, 2026, 05:20:08 PMThese lads are class. Pressing all over the pitch.
Some engines on them, they will run and press all day.
England rattled at the moment.
Jesus how funny would this be.
Great goal it was. Cartwheel needs a bit of work.
Certainly one way to avoid the can we play at altitude debate
Quote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 05:24:56 PMGreat goal it was. Cartwheel needs a bit of work.
Hopefully he'll get another attempt at it
Talksport spent more time today talking about England v Mexico.
The thing is - It will be a messy goal if England score. 🫤
It's funny how England managers always make the job tougher than it should be.
I mean:
- taking a spiritual leader rather than a player in the squad of 23.
- taking no established right backs apart from the one completely made of chocolate.
- taking a centre half who played about 200 mins all season and expecting him not to pull up.
- ending up in a situation where Declan Rice is your dead ball specialist.
- taking along a lazy, bad egg misfit on the grounds that he'd a good season 5 years ago. Then promoting him into the team.
- playing something close to ego free football all throughout qualification, to reverse all over the top of it and build the team around show pony Bellingham.
- leaving game changing attacking players at home whilst bringing a backup forward who effectively retired from top flight football 2 years ago.
- somehow convincing himself that Pickford has the mental fortitude to win a World Cup.
——-
Watch now while Rashford and Bellingham score.
But it matters none. England would need to be perfect to give France a game this year, and instead they've a manager who has tuned them down to 60% of their potential.
England getting closer.
The altitude in Mexico city is so bad it's affecting England a round early ;D
It's all about the Euros in 2028 now.
Um Bongo Um Bongo!
Jesus almost 2-0
So close to 2-0. Then Kane dives in an effort to win a penalty.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 01, 2026, 05:31:40 PMTalksport spent more time today talking about England v Mexico.
So did we tbf 😆
Should've been two 🙈
f**k shearer unbearable on eng matches
That's a dive ffs was already falling
Fùck what a miss!!!
Finally a referee not falling for Kane's diving
Kane should have been booked for that dive.
Quote from: Puckoon on July 01, 2026, 05:39:33 PMUm Bongo Um Bongo!
The drink it in the Congo
https://www.personneltoday.com/hr/uk-border-agency-staff-under-investigation-for-racist-behaviour-towards-asylum-seekers/
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 05:44:45 PMFùck what a miss!!!
Finally a referee not falling for Kane's diving
Great call by ref
This is beautiful.
Bellingham and Rashford look good for England but my oh my the rest look shite. Elliot Anderson £116m looks like he can't run at all
Pat Jennings v Spain vibes off that Congo goalkeeper so far.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 01, 2026, 05:50:17 PMBellingham and Rashford look good for England but my oh my the rest look shite. Elliot Anderson £116m looks like he can't run at all
I genuinely cannot get my around how anyone can watch England produce nothing, not a damn thing, down their left hand side, then praise the left winger.
Keeper is having the half of his life.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 01, 2026, 05:50:17 PMBellingham and Rashford look good for England but my oh my the rest look shite. Elliot Anderson £116m looks like he can't run at all
Rashford? I thought he's been shite!
Bellingham is getting frustrated, you'd want to be really winding him up now to hopefully get a second yellow.
Kane should have been booked for that dive.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 01, 2026, 05:50:17 PMBellingham and Rashford look good for England but my oh my the rest look shite. Elliot Anderson £116m looks like he can't run at all
I've seen him once so far, at a throw in. Madness money
Fair fucks to rooney for saying no pen
Still think they do it but this could be good craic 😎
According to Opta, the last time England won a World Cup match after falling behind first was the 1966 final against West Germany.
Keeper will get signed by Spurs now for 50 million!
Serious Euro 92 vibes
Kane off > Toney on, c'mon Tomas u can do it
This would be up there with Iceland 2016.
I could have taken England this far as manager!
Argentina was given stick by South American sports journalists about their challenge games against lesser teams, the reason they played them apparently was to play against the low blocks these teams use
Everybody needs to love something as much as Wan Bissaka loves defending.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 01, 2026, 06:24:39 PMThis would be up there with Iceland 2016.
No, this would be better, the racism, the raping of African countries of their wealth.
Hopefully the English kids worried about going to school next week when they were meant to play Mexico can sleep well now
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 01, 2026, 06:24:39 PMThis would be up there with Iceland 2016.
Significantly worse I think.
Quote from: shawshank on July 01, 2026, 06:33:11 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 01, 2026, 06:24:39 PMThis would be up there with Iceland 2016.
No, this would be better, the racism, the raping of African countries of their wealth.
Nearly sure that was the Belgians?
In Atlanta City where they got to see the World's greatest swimmer 30 years ago it's now time for England to sink or swim.
1-1 and had to be Kane.
BASTARDS!!
Was fun while it lasted.
Altitude will do for them.
Just when I was trying to find out what the Congolese word for schadenfreude is.
Ironically that looked the easiest save of all.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 01, 2026, 06:24:51 PMI could have taken England this far as manager!
They are a squad of egotistical wankers. Rice and Bellingham won't speak to each other. You can see the body language. He has had to bring some absolute shite because the alternatives were unmanageable. I think TT did well to keep a lid on it so far.
How utter dogshit were they up till then though
Still have the hope of penalties
Not over yet. Get it to penalties
The Elia lad DRC brought on as their first sub is a liability. Keeps trying to take lads on and having no strength to get past them.
f**k sake
England 2-1 Kane again
Disappointing. Could the hole Bellingham ran into opening up years in advance.
It's coming home.
Baxtards. Some goal by Kane.
First good team they meet will slap them.
Kane is wonderful.
That is cruel. Jammy bastards.
WANKERS!!
Alan shearer embarrassing. They are not capable of blowing teams away like France, never were under Southgate either. Up Mexico
Kane is some p***k.
Olise, Dembele, Barcola and Mbappe vs Spence, Konsa, Guehi & O'Riley will have to be shown after the watershed.
Quote from: ClubScene13 on July 01, 2026, 06:55:30 PMAlan shearer embarrassing. They are not capable of blowing teams away like France, never were under Southgate either. Up Mexico
It's understandable why Roy Keane hates him.
Jammy bastards
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 01, 2026, 06:08:59 PMAccording to Opta, the last time England won a World Cup match after falling behind first was the 1966 final against West Germany.
England's World Cup to lose now!
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 07:00:43 PMJammy bastards
(https://i.ibb.co/0yCQyM8w/Screenshot-20260701-185817-com-android-chrome-edit-120566074605040.jpg)
Mexico, Brazil/Norway, Argentina - The likely Path they'll have to the final.
I can't see them getting through that (Please god don't let it happen)
Quote from: ClubScene13 on July 01, 2026, 06:55:30 PMAlan shearer embarrassing. They are not capable of blowing teams away like France, never were under Southgate either. Up Mexico
Shearer is one step away from having a hand shandy live on air.
Really unfortunate angle for the ref where it looked like he was giving a clear neck salute
Ándale ándale México 🇲🇽
That's an England team in particular that have pr*cks everywhere you turn. That's not a new phenomenon but this is a thoroughly unlikeable group, worse than normal
Quote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Back to cheering on an ENGLISH club next month
Hopefully Mexico can dump the fûckers out . I'd give Mexico more of a chance of beating them than Brazil. I don't rate the Brazilians.
The longer these bastards are still involved, the more jammy them become. Look at the last Euros
They've got favourable draws but teams with real quality will always beat them in the end. Imagine what France would do to them.
To be fair, Kane is a goal machine, he's had some season so far
Deserved win in the end
Quote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Quote from: blasmere on July 01, 2026, 07:11:04 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Back to cheering on an ENGLISH club next month
Well in fairness the same could be said for the majority of people on this Board
Kane wont get the space he was given against stronger opposition. The defence was out on its feet.
England are winning, but have not performed all that well, and have not come up against a side that has a unified defence along with a playmaker (Modric totally misfired that day).
At the moment there are a number of better prospects, but England did have a similar road when they nearly won Euro 2024.
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on July 01, 2026, 07:31:11 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Quote from: blasmere on July 01, 2026, 07:11:04 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Back to cheering on an ENGLISH club next month
Well in fairness the same could be said for the majority of people on this Board
His point is probably something along the lines of pointing out that one of the board's most childishly enthusiastic "supporters" of an English soccer team, also childishly and vociferously hates the English national team. Which is a but of a juxtaposition for some of us.
Quote from: ClubScene13 on July 01, 2026, 07:07:30 PMThat's an England team in particular that have pr*cks everywhere you turn. That's not a new phenomenon but this is a thoroughly unlikeable group, worse than normal
Don't think that's true at all.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 01, 2026, 07:13:54 PMHopefully Mexico can dump the fûckers out . I'd give Mexico more of a chance of beating them than Brazil. I don't rate the Brazilians.
The longer these bastards are still involved, the more jammy them become. Look at the last Euros
And you'll be back supporting an English club next month 🙄
Morto for you...
Quote from: gallsman on July 01, 2026, 07:38:35 PMQuote from: ClubScene13 on July 01, 2026, 07:07:30 PMThat's an England team in particular that have pr*cks everywhere you turn. That's not a new phenomenon but this is a thoroughly unlikeable group, worse than normal
Don't think that's true at all.
Agreed. The era with Ashley Cole, Terry, Lampard, Beckham, Gerrard, Rooney was by far the worst. Arrogant, egotistical, self centred, and not nearly as good as they considered themselves to be. I honestly think that that entire era influenced England for the better when it came to team spirit and character, especially when the last of them were flushed before the 2018 World Cup.
Quote from: blasmere on July 01, 2026, 07:11:04 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 01, 2026, 07:03:21 PMÁndale ándale México 🇲🇽
Back to cheering on an ENGLISH club next month
That would be the same for nearly all of us?
No way I wanted England to win, did you?
A shame that Wissa chance hit the post,hopefully the Mexicans with the home support will do the job, they have been impressive so far.
Oneills might sell a few of these this week!
https://www.oneills.com/los-san-patricios-gaa-club-gaa-jersey-v31-green-amber.html
Beautiful jersey.
QuoteQuoteHopefully Mexico can dump the fûckers out . I'd give Mexico more of a chance of beating them than Brazil. I don't rate the Brazilians.
The longer these bastards are still involved, the more jammy them become. Look at the last Euros
And you'll be back supporting an English club next month 🙄
Morto for you...
"Supporting" would be going a bit far.
So, you wanted England to win then , did you?
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 01, 2026, 07:32:08 PMKane wont get the space he was given against stronger opposition. The defence was out on its feet.
I disagree with this. England have played three teams on the bounce that played haramball. He will get more space against the more attacking teams in the tournament as England have always looked better as a counter attacking team
Quote from: Nanderson on July 01, 2026, 08:40:04 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 01, 2026, 07:32:08 PMKane wont get the space he was given against stronger opposition. The defence was out on its feet.
I disagree with this. England have played three teams on the bounce that played haramball. He will get more space against the more attacking teams in the tournament as England have always looked better as a counter attacking team
Yep. Mexico will not bring football terrorism the way Ghana, Panama and DR Congo did. Especially at home.
Quote from: Nanderson on July 01, 2026, 08:40:04 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 01, 2026, 07:32:08 PMKane wont get the space he was given against stronger opposition. The defence was out on its feet.
I disagree with this. England have played three teams on the bounce that played haramball. He will get more space against the more attacking teams in the tournament as England have always looked better as a counter attacking team
Think the altitude will do them more than the opposition.
Quote from: ClubScene13 on July 01, 2026, 07:07:30 PMThat's an England team in particular that have pr*cks everywhere you turn. That's not a new phenomenon but this is a thoroughly unlikeable group, worse than normal
Yeah filled with them
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 01, 2026, 08:45:46 PMQuote from: Nanderson on July 01, 2026, 08:40:04 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 01, 2026, 07:32:08 PMKane wont get the space he was given against stronger opposition. The defence was out on its feet.
I disagree with this. England have played three teams on the bounce that played haramball. He will get more space against the more attacking teams in the tournament as England have always looked better as a counter attacking team
Think the altitude will do them more than the opposition.
Yeah, pitch is 150 miles in the air so air very thin...
Senegal looking strong. Looking like they've too much for Belgium. Early days though.
Senegal 2 up. Great control from Sarr on the chest and an easy finish.
Belgium are awful.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 01, 2026, 10:22:27 PMBelgium are awful.
Golden generation long over wasted by that spoofer martinez
Stormzy not getting much service up front for Belgium
Spoke too soon
Mega collapse.
:o
Time for a winner ;D
Appalling from the keeper.
Mad ending.
Dramatic last few minutes but Senegal have been very loose at back.
Unexpected! It'll be interesting to see how Senegal react. Meltdown maybe.
Quote from: OakLeaf on July 01, 2026, 10:53:11 PMUnexpected! It'll be interesting to see how Senegal react. Meltdown maybe.
Walk off maybe ;D
Whats up with refs shoulders?
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 01, 2026, 10:55:59 PMQuote from: OakLeaf on July 01, 2026, 10:53:11 PMUnexpected! It'll be interesting to see how Senegal react. Meltdown maybe.
Walk off maybe ;D
Lol. They don't seem to like the balls now!
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 01, 2026, 10:56:17 PMWhats up with refs shoulders?
Tim Cahills been working out
These guys need to get ta f**k home
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 01, 2026, 10:55:59 PMQuote from: OakLeaf on July 01, 2026, 10:53:11 PMUnexpected! It'll be interesting to see how Senegal react. Meltdown maybe.
Walk off maybe ;D
They just might...
Never a penalty. Horrible stuff.
Terrible decision by referee
Operation Senegal blew it complete.
Quote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 11:44:10 PMNever a penalty. Horrible stuff.
He got him unfortunately, harsh call but..
4 minutes to go two up!
That's on them
Quote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 11:44:10 PMNever a penalty. Horrible stuff.
It was a penalty alright.
USA with another win, wasn't impressed by the Belgians at all so would fancy the States to beat them.
Quote from: ArmaghTastic on July 02, 2026, 07:50:17 AMQuote from: weareros on July 01, 2026, 11:44:10 PMNever a penalty. Horrible stuff.
It was a penalty alright.
USA with another win, wasn't impressed by the Belgians at all so would fancy the States to beat them.
Balogun would be a big miss for the States after the red card not sure what the depth of striker looks like in their squad. Belgium are very average.
Anyone else see the similarity?
(https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/768x768/public/d8/images/canvas/2026/06/23/3fab217d-ac66-462a-a5cc-de849b139ee9_a7fb2873.jpg?itok=OXUC1HBx&v=1782206797)
If the US win the WC they don't have to look too hard for the actor to play Poch.
Quote from: johnnycool on July 02, 2026, 10:18:11 AMAnyone else see the similarity?
(https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/768x768/public/d8/images/canvas/2026/06/23/3fab217d-ac66-462a-a5cc-de849b139ee9_a7fb2873.jpg?itok=OXUC1HBx&v=1782206797)
If the US win the WC they don't have to look too hard for the actor to play Poch.
Agreed. Thought I posted it on here but now I recall I put it on fb then deleted due to lack of interest 😆
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 02, 2026, 10:39:19 AMQuote from: johnnycool on July 02, 2026, 10:18:11 AMAnyone else see the similarity?
(https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/768x768/public/d8/images/canvas/2026/06/23/3fab217d-ac66-462a-a5cc-de849b139ee9_a7fb2873.jpg?itok=OXUC1HBx&v=1782206797)
If the US win the WC they don't have to look too hard for the actor to play Poch.
Agreed. Thought I posted it on here but now I recall I put it on fb then deleted due to lack of interest 😆
Lack of interest in what....
My post on fb. I like to get a few likes early doors if I don't get them I lose confidence and delete 😄
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 02, 2026, 11:34:33 AMMy post on fb. I like to get a few likes early doors if I don't get them I lose confidence and delete 😄
Whoooosh....
Ah jaysus 🤣 I'm getting too old for this tinternet shizzle 😄
Quote from: johnnycool on July 02, 2026, 10:18:11 AMAnyone else see the similarity?
(https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/768x768/public/d8/images/canvas/2026/06/23/3fab217d-ac66-462a-a5cc-de849b139ee9_a7fb2873.jpg?itok=OXUC1HBx&v=1782206797)
If the US win the WC they don't have to look too hard for the actor to play Poch.
"My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions and loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next"
Interesting that Mauricio Pochettino is from a small town called Murphy in Argentina, named after a Wexford man.
Sloppy red card for the American lad. Some Americans thinking its a bad call, but not grasping its a 50-50 call in tournaments like this, referee depending. He will be a miss in the next round.
Spanish looking slick. 3rd goal was class. Austrians pale shadow of team that looked so good in Euros.
Draw looks lopsided with S America teams mostly on 1 side and European teams on the other.
Quote from: weareros on July 02, 2026, 10:01:25 PMSpanish looking slick. 3rd goal was class. Austrians pale shadow of team that looked so good in Euros.
Baumgartner is a miss for them
Quote from: weareros on July 02, 2026, 02:47:13 PMInteresting that Mauricio Pochettino is from a small town called Murphy in Argentina, named after a Wexford man.
Argentina has one of the highest Irish Diasporas in the world with between 500k - 1 million people with irish ancestry.
Plenty Germans flowing around it too.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 02, 2026, 10:37:41 PMPlenty Germans flowing around it too.
Haha true... theres actually a Welsh speaking area in it too.
I reckon Croatia will dump Portugal out
Whos running the Portguese team anyway, Ronaldo having no effect on the game, huffy bollix.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 03, 2026, 01:42:21 AMWhos running the Portguese team anyway, Ronaldo having no effect on the game, huffy bollix.
Manager brave enough to sub the centre of attention off I didn't think Martinez had it in him. Portugal 2-1 ahead now.
How did Croatia do that. Injury time and they were still fannying around with the ball instead of lumping it into the box. Although goal now getting checked
Wow some finish
Rough on Croatia. They were the better team. The soft penalty World Cup.
One of the games of the tournament especially in the second half. Drama could not be beat. Croatia score but it is ruled offside and Croatia go out.
Lucky win for Portugal but fitting they won on the anniversary of Diogo Jota death.
(https://i.ibb.co/FkPpbxWT/HMRA3-XJXAAEr-WCl.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q750Fbcw)
Worth staying up for that one.Not sure about that disallowed goal though.
Infantino might yet get his Ronaldo v Messi final , the baldy cúnt.
No doubt we'll see more dodgy decisions to come to make that happen
Portugal will get humped by Spain
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 03, 2026, 02:29:50 AMWorth staying up for that one.Not sure about that disallowed goal though.
Infantino might yet get his Ronaldo v Messi final , the baldy cúnt.
No doubt we'll see more dodgy decisions to come to make that happen
No dodgy decision. Offside is offside.
Surely it was black and white offside no?
It's not about the positioning of the attacker, it's about whether there was a flick on. When the ball is first played in, he's clearly onside.
From the angles I've seen, any touch is impossible to see with the naked eye and on TV (and I guess in VAR room as well) they used what I assume is Snickometer to determine there was a touch, and at that point he was offside.
Stayed up and suffering for it now. Well worth the suffering. Great game. For a limited player pool - the Croats are an incredible bunch of players.
Portugal would never have scored an equaliser with Ronaldo on - if they didn't get the soft penalty. Which in turn has eventually Gifted Ronaldo his first knockout goal in a WC.
Martinez had to bite the bullet coming into the home front and take 'The Precious One' off. Much to his obvious annoyance.
The drama at the end could have ended up very messy - but it seems technically solved the conundrum.
We get another week of the Ronaldo soap opera. Which is box office for the wrong reasons.
It's still entertaining and compelling in a strange way.
I have seen great footballers out stay their time at weak countries. Most came on with 15 minutes to go as impact subs. They still have something to offer because their player pool is small. I can't think of this happening before with a major power?
Ronaldo is such a petulant child, just saw highlights but hoping they were out on that image of him strutting off.
VAR ruined a classic ..or maybe corrupt FIFA. Wtf knows at this stage.
Based on visual the flight of ball is unimpeded and it could be a geometric false positive based on how the tech works. Blind faith in sensors is a bad idea.
Incredible its a year since Jota btw.
By now I have little toleration for ITV or BBC commentary + most of their pundits, unfortunately there's no safe haven in RTE, apart from when Darragh is on commentary and Didi is in amongst the studio dross. The rest are the B & C team, even for LOI games that lot are unlistenable. I happened across a Canadian TSN stream for Egypt v Aus and lo and behold normalcy returns with Martin Tyler (he lives!) and old sidekick Andy Townsend. I checked out the TSN commentators' schedule and came across comments, apparantly Martin is regarded as too boring for those Canadian soccer aficionados who infect social media, give me boring Martin anyday.
Pub standard for most of this game till Egypt stepped it up a bit with a few mins to go. Extra time.
It looks like Barnsley v Norwich in the championship
Only worse
Mo Salah and WC drama beats championship dross by a country mile
Useless fact of the day. Two goalkeepers in WC with Irish surnames: Ryan of Australia and Orlando Gill of Paraguay.
Salah v Messi next round if all goes to plan though I know which one my money be on
England game being moved forward?
You'd think this match here would be too far far fetched in a Roy of the Rovers magazine?
It's Pico Time.
Superb goal
The first touch unreal.
Ronaldo can go te f**k
There's no comparison
The GOAT
Reminded me of the Bergkamp goal ironically against Argentina. Control to bring it down then outside of the boot to score
7th goal of the tournament. The same number Messi scored in the last world cup.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 03, 2026, 11:32:37 PMReminded me of the Bergkamp goal ironically against Argentina. Control to bring it down then outside of the boot to score
Bergkamps was better
Some goal. Because it's Messi it's almost a given.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 03, 2026, 11:35:28 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 03, 2026, 11:32:37 PMReminded me of the Bergkamp goal ironically against Argentina. Control to bring it down then outside of the boot to score
Bergkamps was better
Agree
Cape Verde have zero chance
Argentina sit 2nd I World rankings
Cape Verde are 64th, league one team uk playing premiership
Cape Verde level it up.
Get in
Wow! They deserve to be level.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 04, 2026, 12:10:30 AMCape Verde have zero chance
Argentina sit 2nd I World rankings
Cape Verde are 64th, league one team uk playing premiership
Board curse strikes again
No doubt the next conspiracy theory will come out with the dodgy 'goal' given ;D
Could it really happen?
The man with the sideburns will be calling the orange man who will be calling the man with the egg head who'll be calling the referee.
Messi and his team to get a mind-boggling result in Miami?
It's hard to describe or put into words but Cape Verde play more like a South American or Central American team than a African side.
This ref obviously hasn't got the brown envelope that the conspirators think, well not yet ;D
Four games and Four draws in 90 minutes for Cape Verde proving how hard they are to beat even for tournament favourites Spain and Argentina.
Worrying if Argentina go out , as you'd be hoping they're the last in line at the semi stage , to prevent England getting to a final
Although I'd hope Mexico or Brazil will dump them out
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 04, 2026, 01:02:00 AMWorrying if Argentina go out , as you'd be hoping they're the last in line at the semi stage , to prevent England getting to a final
Although I'd hope Mexico or Brazil will dump them out
Colombia also. Wouldn't be that worried about England yet. Round of 16 will tell us alot about alot of teams.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 04, 2026, 12:10:30 AMCape Verde have zero chance
Argentina sit 2nd I World rankings
Cape Verde are 64th, league one team uk playing premiership
You are some eejit
At 1-1 towards the end of the 90 mins cape Verde had a few opportunities to get the ball into the box and didn't take it. It seems to be a common thing at this world cup teams reluctant to go more direct. Am I missing something I'm not saying hoof it but FFS if you are creating fewer chances then you inevitably won't score as many
Holy f**k!
Like that just smack it ;D
2-2.
I had a feeling this wasn't over
What a goal!!!
Now that is absolute madness.
This is an all time great World Cup game isn't it.
Considering everything
Whatever happens, Argentina are poor. We'll need Spain or France to stop the sassenach (who are shite too but so is the standard). CV should go for it.
Argentina lead for the 3rd time, that's surely it?
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 04, 2026, 01:22:12 AMThis is an all time great World Cup game isn't it.
Considering everything
Certainly memorable. Argentina with 48 million population and Cape Verde has 500,000.
Gutted. What a magnificent effort by Cape Verde.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 04, 2026, 01:35:31 AMQuote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 04, 2026, 01:22:12 AMThis is an all time great World Cup game isn't it.
Considering everything
Certainly memorable. Argentina with 48 million population and Cape Verde has 500,000.
Was a joy to watch.
Cape Verde could have equalised for a 3rd time.
Absolute credit that team.
Can't stand Argentina, defo dont want them to win another wc. Messi was looking for frees from edge of the box all night long. Cape Verde were brilliant and should have taken them to penalties. England Argentina would be a hard watch wouldnt want either to win
Absolute classic. Game of the tournament.
Ominously for Argentina the Cape Verde tactics were spot on. A better team will cut and paste that game plan and be able to carry it through.
Quote from: weareros on July 04, 2026, 01:27:26 AMWhatever happens, Argentina are poor. We'll need Spain or France to stop the sassenach (who are shite too but so is the standard). CV should go for it.
You won't have to wait that long, Mexico will send them on the next plane home
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 04, 2026, 01:15:45 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 04, 2026, 12:10:30 AMCape Verde have zero chance
Argentina sit 2nd I World rankings
Cape Verde are 64th, league one team uk playing premiership
You are some eejit
This was a piss take, at how much a favourite Argentina are and how they were not finishing them off
Quote from: Dougal Maguire on July 04, 2026, 08:04:37 AMQuote from: weareros on July 04, 2026, 01:27:26 AMWhatever happens, Argentina are poor. We'll need Spain or France to stop the sassenach (who are shite too but so is the standard). CV should go for it.
You won't have to wait that long, Mexico will send them on the next plane home
Mexico have played absolutely nothing to date. I think England will get their act together and win this one. Mexico will come at them abit more which will leave them vulnerable to the counter attack.
Quote from: statto on July 04, 2026, 12:56:40 PMQuote from: Dougal Maguire on July 04, 2026, 08:04:37 AMQuote from: weareros on July 04, 2026, 01:27:26 AMWhatever happens, Argentina are poor. We'll need Spain or France to stop the sassenach (who are shite too but so is the standard). CV should go for it.
You won't have to wait that long, Mexico will send them on the next plane home
Mexico have played absolutely nothing to date. I think England will get their act together and win this one. Mexico will come at them abit more which will leave them vulnerable to the counter attack.
Depends how they cope in the heat. It obviously won't as big a problem for Mexico. Playing a host nation with most of the support for Mexico could be a factor too.
(https://i.ibb.co/RT7CLtJH/Screenshot-20260704-133836-Facebook.jpg) (https://ibb.co/235jXRpK)
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 04, 2026, 01:07:42 PMQuote from: statto on July 04, 2026, 12:56:40 PMQuote from: Dougal Maguire on July 04, 2026, 08:04:37 AMQuote from: weareros on July 04, 2026, 01:27:26 AMWhatever happens, Argentina are poor. We'll need Spain or France to stop the sassenach (who are shite too but so is the standard). CV should go for it.
You won't have to wait that long, Mexico will send them on the next plane home
Mexico have played absolutely nothing to date. I think England will get their act together and win this one. Mexico will come at them abit more which will leave them vulnerable to the counter attack.
Depends how they cope in the heat. It obviously won't as big a problem for Mexico. Playing a host nation with most of the support for Mexico could be a factor too.
Unfortunately there is no heat. Temps are due to be in the low 20s. The only condition likely to affect England is the altitude. I think they'll be 2-0 winners.
Fast start for RSA.
Grindingly boring half of football. The ref has dished out so many yellows, Morocco will do well to finish with 11.
Morocco bullied by Canada! Who the f**k gets bullied by Canada.
Quote from: armaghniac on July 04, 2026, 07:06:16 PMMorocco bullied by Canada! Who the f**k gets bullied by Canada.
Bit of a sucker punch goal against Canada but they've offered little since the first half... they need a few changes I'm not sure why they're waiting so long!!
Canada toothless.
A weak host country.
3-0 all too easy for Morocco. Wouldn't have mattered however why didn't Canada get home advantage for this tie like USA,Mexico are getting home advantage?
I would have thought someone called Captain Obvious could work it out.
The venues for the matches are decided long in advance. Mexico and the USA topped their group and thus progressed to matches that were scheduled in their country. Canada would have done the same if they'd won their group, but they didn't. Because they're shite. They'll not be missed.
In my defence Gallsman I didn't watch a single second of the group stage or even checked to see where teams finished in their groups.
Knock out action is where it's at and was my only interest in this competition, Canada proved themselves to be shite.
Quote from: armaghniac on July 04, 2026, 07:06:16 PMMorocco bullied by Canada! Who the f**k gets bullied by Canada.
Morocco knocked aboot by Canada , but not on the scoreboard
Those Moroccans hard to beat. Won't be a cow milked in Casablanca if they go the whole way.
On another note, if you get a fit of coughing and cover yer mouth, could you see red?
Most that should ever qualify from CONCACAF is 2. They got 6, 3 hosts and 3 additional spots. And then they get two additional playoff spots. Only Mexico and USA should be let near a tournament. Good to see Morocco let loose in 2nd half.
Quote from: weareros on July 04, 2026, 08:30:24 PMMost that should ever qualify from CONCACAF is 2. They got 6, 3 hosts and 3 additional spots. And then they get two additional playoff spots. Only Mexico and USA should be let near a tournament. Good to see Morocco let loose in 2nd half.
Ah the World Cup is not all about quality. Not all the best players play in it. I like seeing countries from different continents ply their trade. If you want quality you get the Euros (or so we are told).
Paraguay game plan of frustrating the French worked in that 1st half.
Paraguay are such a shower of absolute bastards ;D. They're right up there with Uruguay.
The boy chasing mbappé to give him a slap was outrageously daft. The fact he got away with it was worse.
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2026, 10:53:54 PMParaguay are such a shower of absolute bastards ;D. They're right up there with Uruguay.
The boy chatting mbappé to give him a slap was osteotomy outrageously fat daft. The fact he got away with it was worse.
Say what?!
Yes pure shitehouses.
Lovely Jersey but a unlikeable lot.
You have to admire them. Talk about sticking to a system.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 04, 2026, 11:19:45 PMSay what?!.
No idea wtf happened there. Fixed. It's ok, I'm not having a stroke.
Quote from: gallsman on July 04, 2026, 11:26:48 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 04, 2026, 11:19:45 PMSay what?!.
No idea wtf happened there. Fixed. It's ok, I'm not having a stroke.
;D I'll cancel the ambulance!
VAR ruining another game 😃
He is absolutely appalling but I bloody love this ref.
Penalty to France, ref missed it but VAR didn't.
1-0 France
This ref is pathetic. There should be about 5 Paraguayans carded there.
Hopefully France will now see these boys off. Absolutely nothing to offer. It'll be good to see the back of them
Paraguay need a plan B now.
Theres about 3 obvious frees to France this Ref hasnt give. Paraguay,u couldnt beat them by enough.⁰
Paraguay are a hateful shower, who are being aided and abeted by the most useless referee I've seen in a long time.
3?! It's closer to 30!
Aye you don't mind them trying a bit of gamesmanship but they're taking it too far
3 deep breathes gallsman. The ref is dreadful Paraguay must play the least football of any football team ever.
This ref reminds me of how I ref ;D
Cards are left in the car ;D
This is embarrassing but Mbappé is making a twat of himself with some of his reactions here. You're not hurt, just get on with it. If he keeps it up the story will be about his theatrics as much as the Paraguayans' nonsense.
This is brutal. Reminds me why I hardly watch it anymore!
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 04, 2026, 11:37:38 PMAye you don't mind them trying a bit of gamesmanship but they're taking it too far
It's the complete and utter commitment to it as a fundamental aspect of their game plan.
QuoteParaguay need a plan B now.
They could always try the big crane kick from The Karate Kid?
10 mins added, Paraguay penalty coming up. If they get the ball in the box.
This is how Armagh18 wants gaelic football matches reffed. Not in hospital having lost a limb? Sure dust yourself off and play on.
It's like the ref has backed under 4 cards
Warnock on commentary is doing some crying , for that alone Paraguay shitehousry should get a pass, not sure what else Paraguay are expected to do against a team light years better than them.
Paraguay should had 3 men send off! That lad with the hair the biggest cheating bollacks going.
Can't see many handshakes at the end of this
At least we avoided extra time in that game.
Quote from: BigGreenField on July 05, 2026, 12:01:05 AMWarnock on commentary is doing some crying , for that alone Paraguay shitehousry should get a pass, not sure what else Paraguay are expected to do against a team light years better than them.
They shot their shot. France will not win
The refereeing team need to be sent home
That ref clearly done a MR2
Worse Ref i seen in a soccer game in a very long time, actually struggling to remember the previous.
The only explanation can be he backed under 4 cards, there is no other explanation
Worst refereeing I've seen in a soccer match. Paraguay played like an 80s Millwall side. No cards was an effing joke.
Paraguay with no yellow cards and then had the audacity to complain to the referee at full time ;D
Was there money involved in that?
Never mind the Somalian lad. They should have stopped that referee at immigration.
I wonder what that says about the Scottish refs when this lad was deemed up to standard but the Scots not?
That ref was out of his depth. He even needed VAR to bail him out on the penalty. There's letting the game go and there's ignoring or not seeing blatant fouls and card offences. The French did well not to retaliate.
The French did retaliate many times with their blatant diving and faking injury. Mbappe and the ruler slap trauma :D
Maybe he phoned FIFA and told them he was George Weah's cousin
Liked how Paraguay pushed the limits. They worked their ass off.
I've been involved with Soccer teams on both sides of that coin.
Sometimes you have to drag the opponent down a level.
Paraguay could have played football and got hockeyed.
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 05, 2026, 02:55:33 AMLiked how Paraguay pushed the limits. They worked their ass off.
I've been involved with Soccer teams on both sides of that coin.
Sometimes you have to drag the opponent down a level.
Paraguay could have played football and got hockeyed.
There's working your ass off and there's just dirt! They did that, the lesser South American teams have always brought that level.
After doing so well against Germany, worked their asses off and come away with plenty of merit to do that last night, though abled by a train wreck of a ref!
I can't remember a worse referring performance. When you look back at the fouls it was mad they didn't get a single yellow card. Even just for persistent fouling. You often see a ref go 1,2,3 and produce the card. Some of those lads were on 6,7,8 fouls.
Quote from: gerrykeegan on July 05, 2026, 09:52:22 AMI can't remember a worse referring performance. When you look back at the fouls it was mad they didn't get a single yellow card. Even just for persistent fouling. You often see a ref go 1,2,3 and produce the card. Some of those lads were on 6,7,8 fouls.
I think our perceptions on tackling and contact have been sanitised by the dreadful over officiating found in almost every PL match.
Personally I prefer the refereeing style in this match. Giant big f**ker Frenchmen rolling around the ground on every contact is a bigger blight on soccer - in my opinion - then a man throwing a snide little dig here and there.
Cmere son come watch Mbappe and dembele and olise play some great football and score a couple of clinkers
Naw da sure look at yer man way the elbow when the balls out for a throw in that's class
Did someone say 3 French 0 paraguayans booked? Pure class give me more of this
Quote from: thewobbler on July 05, 2026, 10:02:41 AMQuote from: gerrykeegan on July 05, 2026, 09:52:22 AMI can't remember a worse referring performance. When you look back at the fouls it was mad they didn't get a single yellow card. Even just for persistent fouling. You often see a ref go 1,2,3 and produce the card. Some of those lads were on 6,7,8 fouls.
I think our perceptions on tackling and contact have been sanitised by the dreadful over officiating found in almost every PL match.
Personally I prefer the refereeing style in this match. Giant big f**ker Frenchmen rolling around the ground on every contact is a bigger blight on soccer - in my opinion - then a man throwing a snide little dig here and there.
If you book both the hacker and the diver then you may start to see less of it. The ref did neither. People won't like the way Paraguay setup last night, but they can play the game whatever way they want - a "pragmatic" approach based on their limitations, or a free flowing approach. It's up to the ref to ensure it's all within the rules. Again, the ref didn't do his job.
On the back of this, can someone explain to me how FIFA have never brought in bookings retrospectively for diving? I know there are grey areas but blatant ones should be dealt with afterwards.
The Paraguay players rolled around as much as the French only difference was that no matter what happened he wasn't giving Paraguay a card. If he had been consistent in letting things go you could argue it is a good style of refereeing, but different rules for different teams is not.
Players over reacting can also be driven by a ref. If he only gives a free when someone screams and rolls around that is what players will do.
Quote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 10:43:30 AMOn the back of this, can someone explain to me how FIFA have never brought in bookings retrospectively for diving? I know there are grey areas but blatant ones should be dealt with afterwards.
Where does that stop? Retrospective hand balls?
At some point the referee has to be let referee. If he decides something isn't a booking then it isn't.
3rd match Ilgiz Tantashev was in charge of in this World cup
Scotland v Morocco and Austria v Algeria. Was he as bad In those games?
Maybe if Scotland had employed some of Paraguays tactics they wouldn't be sitting watching the second round st home. Paraguay were just right
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 05, 2026, 12:43:01 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 10:43:30 AMOn the back of this, can someone explain to me how FIFA have never brought in bookings retrospectively for diving? I know there are grey areas but blatant ones should be dealt with afterwards.
Where does that stop? Retrospective hand balls?
At some point the referee has to be let referee. If he decides something isn't a booking then it isn't.
Can retrospective red cards be issued?
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2026, 02:01:35 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 05, 2026, 12:43:01 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 10:43:30 AMOn the back of this, can someone explain to me how FIFA have never brought in bookings retrospectively for diving? I know there are grey areas but blatant ones should be dealt with afterwards.
Where does that stop? Retrospective hand balls?
At some point the referee has to be let referee. If he decides something isn't a booking then it isn't.
Can retrospective red cards be issued?
Well its making the game unwatchable so i think they need to do something
Call a spade a spade, Paraguay were a dirty bunch with elbows, punch to the ribs, high dangerous tackles, stud down the shins, playacting (worse than any french men). Got be the most unlikable team i ever seen.
Folarin Balogun's suspension quashed. The most corrupt World Cup in history. The tone was set when Ronaldo had dinner with Trump and Infantino in White House and lo and behold his suspension for his red card against Ireland disappeared too.
Have to say I really enjoyed the game last night. Enjoyed the bit of niggle, thought it gave a nice edge to the game. The only games I've watched have been the ones involving France. Have been good to watch and would like to see them win it. I didn't think there were any particularly dangerous tackles in the game. A bit like watching Atletico Madrid and I enjoy them as well.
Am I missing something or was there not an angle that showed the defender getting a touch on the ball for the penalty?
I think Haaland has touched the ball once in 35 minutes
Quote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 09:29:04 PMAm I missing something or was there not an angle that showed the defender getting a touch on the ball for the penalty?
I thought I could see he got a slight touch on two off the angles I seen also. Keeper saved it so will end debates - Do they not use that snit or sneakometer whatever it's called to detect touches for tackles?
Quote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 09:29:04 PMAm I missing something or was there not an angle that showed the defender getting a touch on the ball for the penalty?
There was. And the ref didn't look/wasn't shown it at the monitor.
So they're admitting he git a touch but saying its still a penalty. Dont understand that. Back in the day, ye get a touch, its a good tackle
Every time I hear Norway's Ryerson mentioned , I immediately think of Ned Ryerson, the man who kept bugging Bill Murray every morning in Groundhog Day.
Two very average teams .
I hope to feck this doesn't go to ET.
Norway 1 Brazil 0.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 05, 2026, 10:35:24 PMTwo very average teams .
I hope to feck this doesn't go to ET.
Was just chatting to the wife about you 😜😜
She had read the Aztec was two Everest's above sea level, and while correcting her your name came up 😉
If that big bollacks had a work rate he be the best player in the world.
Quote from: weareros on July 05, 2026, 05:42:07 PMFolarin Balogun's suspension quashed. The most corrupt World Cup in history. The tone was set when Ronaldo had dinner with Trump and Infantino in White House and lo and behold his suspension for his red card against Ireland disappeared too.
Shocking how blatantly corrupt FIFA are these days.
Amazing great to see.
2-0 over and out for Brazil.
What a diasy cutter that was.. Thundercunted it
Haaland.. love him or hate him, the lad can finish!
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 05, 2026, 10:45:18 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 05, 2026, 10:35:24 PMTwo very average teams .
I hope to feck this doesn't go to ET.
Was just chatting to the wife about you 😜😜
She had read the Aztec was two Everest's above sea level, and while correcting her your name came up 😉
Tell the wife I said hello ;D
Quote from: OakLeaf on July 05, 2026, 10:53:15 PMHaaland.. love him or hate him, the lad can finish!
Awesome finish
That's the worst Brazil team I've ever seen.
Like i said. If he had a workrate they be no stopping him.
The problem with Brazil,and since the late 90's all the top players play in Europe and they lose the fancy tricks of players who play in Brazil produced.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 05, 2026, 10:55:43 PMLike i said. If he had a workrate they be no stopping him.
You could say same for Messi then lol
Sometimes it's good to appreciate guys for what they are. Haaland a scoring machine
Neymar has one of those faces you'd never tire of slapping
Another ref not knowing what hes doing. How come he didnt red card the Brazilians subs who come on to the fracas 3/4mins ago.
Ref playing added time in a dead rubber. Peno to brazil 98th min. Disgusting stuff
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 05, 2026, 10:59:40 PMNeymar has one of those faces you'd never tire of slapping
What on earth is he doing on the pitch, never mind in the squad. He's an ex footballer.
2-1 and that penalty miss 1st half leaves a what if now.
Wtf was neymar goading the goal keeper for. They just put you out of the world cup you d1ck
What is this ref at
South American teams are yappy f**kers. Paraguay, Uruguay and now Brazil.
Not sure where the ref found all that time from.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 05, 2026, 11:01:13 PMAnother ref not knowing what hes doing. How come he didnt red card the Brazilians subs who come on to the fracas 3/4mins ago.
Oh he knows exactly what hes doing
Neymar.If u played on the same team as him. U still kick the shit outta him. A tube!!
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 05, 2026, 11:04:14 PMWtf was neymar goading the goal keeper for. They just put you out of the world cup you d1ck
Unreal, what a tube considering it didn't count for anything really. Neymar has that same swollen McGregor head look about him now too.
Deserved win for Norway that's how to reach your first ever Quarter-final.
Some deluded Brazilians will probably see it as embarrassing exit however a long way off the embarrassing 7–1 trimming they got off Germany on their home patch in 2014.
When you see Neymar coming on you realise the lack of depth of the Brazilian squad.
Haaland strolled around and his confidence is in a serious place. He celebrated both goals like he expected to score.
Haaland will get the plaudits - but any land in goals was the hero when the game was a game.
Tuchel has to use the 5 subs wisely tonight. In terms of energy conservation.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 05, 2026, 11:13:45 PMDeserved win for Norway that's how to reach your first ever Quarter-final.
Some deluded Brazilians will probably see it as embarrassing exit however a long way off the embarrassing 7–1 trimming they got off Germany on their home patch in 2014.
Wise words from a wise man
*Neymar has that same swollen McGregor head look about him now too*
"If you wanna hang out you gonna take her out..."
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 05, 2026, 11:04:14 PMWtf was neymar goading the goal keeper for. They just put you out of the world cup you d1ck
Was thinking the same myself.
The Real Madrid right back sitting at home and England playing a centre half at right back if reports are true. Expect England to win but Tuchel have some serious questions answer if they don't get through. Draw opening up rightly on that side too. Argentina no great shakes going by last performance, could see Colombia or Switzerland giving them their fill of it in quarter final.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 05, 2026, 10:48:28 PMIf that big bollacks had a work rate he be the best player in the world.
Do you think his managers send him out with instructions to press like mad and chase down defenders on the wings but he refuses to?
Clearly not his role
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2026, 10:52:07 PMQuote from: weareros on July 05, 2026, 05:42:07 PMFolarin Balogun's suspension quashed. The most corrupt World Cup in history. The tone was set when Ronaldo had dinner with Trump and Infantino in White House and lo and behold his suspension for his red card against Ireland disappeared too.
Shocking how blatantly corrupt FIFA are these days.
Would expect USA to beat Belgium now, farcical all the same.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 05, 2026, 11:27:24 PMWise words from a wise man
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Brazil would need to go back to their roots and stop signing for English sides and ruining the romance. The English ruin everything.
2am kick off
Off to bed
Aye frig that.
Phone off in the morning, radio on my playlist for drive to work, watch the highlights on bbc iplayer be like watching it live ;D
Two very memorable goals in England's last World Cup match in the Estadio Azteca
(https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTZjMDliOTUydXZtaG1zNG83ampxcmJoanM1ZDdrZTBkeXFnc3c0YWtrd2NvZmt3bSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/1dIV6IirGCb5m459s9/giphy.gif)
(https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTZjMDliOTUyNXhwYm02OGVkdmY2NW5hd2hhYTFrbThiYXdvNjBiank5ajdoMXdpeSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/m9p8zx9pt35cXmiAni/giphy.gif)
40 years and on time to create another bit of memorable World cup history.
Old enough to remember watching it, each man Maradona went by, my Dad was shouting. go on go on, yessss!!!
QuoteTwo very memorable goals in England's last World Cup match in the Estadio Azteca
(https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTZjMDliOTUydXZtaG1zNG83ampxcmJoanM1ZDdrZTBkeXFnc3c0YWtrd2NvZmt3bSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/1dIV6IirGCb5m459s9/giphy.gif)
(https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTZjMDliOTUyNXhwYm02OGVkdmY2NW5hd2hhYTFrbThiYXdvNjBiank5ajdoMXdpeSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/m9p8zx9pt35cXmiAni/giphy.gif)
40 years and on time to create another bit of memorable World cup history.
Ah, there's the big spider in the centre circle!!
Happy to see Brazil gone. Rubbish team and their American fan base would be Bolsonaro crowd. Could Evan Ferguson fulfill early promise and be a Haaland like player for us. Still time. Norway - fair play - remember when we drew 0-0 with them in a World Cup qualifier, Landsdowne Road 1985, and the soccer fraternity in Ireland (never short to over estimate our abilities)lost it completely. How could we not beat Norway at home? They've come a long way. Not your fadher's Norway.
Just had a flashback to Mexico 1986 and England had a must win game, weather was terrible, and Mr Chin Jimmy Hill was co commentator on BBC. Feckers won. Hope the ghost not back to haunt.
Shearer is unbearable. Mexican crowd going mad. Feels like it could be a memorable night.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 06, 2026, 12:14:11 AMPhone off in the morning, radio on my playlist for drive to work, watch the highlights on bbc iplayer be like watching it live ;D
No chance of escaping the result in this day and age. Wasnt that the plot for an episode of the likely lads ;D
Ah ffs
This is unreal stuff England are playing. Slicing them open.
Bellingham brace in two minutes. Game over
2 England goals in minute poor defending by Mexico on both goals.
Bollacks actually playing for a change. Shearer still a w**k on commentary.
England 2-0 up after a 37 mins, Mexicans dominate play up to now, England twice in 2 mins. Time for leaba.
Wow wasn't expecting that
Come on Norway 🇳🇴
Hould on....
One back for Mexico
Mexico set piece nailed. If not for Pickford save game would be 2-2
Game back on.
Tell you what this is worth the sleep deprivation.
This is a cracking game
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 06, 2026, 02:39:37 AMBollacks actually playing for a change. Shearer still a w**k on commentary.
I didn't think Ian Wright could be beat for being intolerable on England games I was wrong.
Good game England's poor defence will give Mexico a chance but expect England score again.
2nd good save by Pickford.
f**k me shots from everywhere could be 4-2 mexico
Christ. Got to score those.
2-1 half time should be more goals 2nd half as both defences look poor.
Unbelievable end to the half.
Could easily be 2-2.
Plenty of goals in this for both teams in the second half.
Quote from: statto on July 06, 2026, 02:45:48 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 06, 2026, 02:39:37 AMBollacks actually playing for a change. Shearer still a w**k on commentary.
I didn't think Ian Wright could be beat for being intolerable on England games I was wrong.
It's on RTE
Quote from: laoislad on July 06, 2026, 02:53:09 AMQuote from: statto on July 06, 2026, 02:45:48 AMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 06, 2026, 02:39:37 AMBollacks actually playing for a change. Shearer still a w**k on commentary.
I didn't think Ian Wright could be beat for being intolerable on England games I was wrong.
It's on RTE
You're not gonna deny him his chance to complain that an English based channel is pro England are you?
Was afraid of falling asleep given the delayed kick-off - no chance. Thrilling game so far.
Red card for England.
Well that was dumb what a twat
Red card VAR for England
Told ya could be memorable.
Mexican taunting got to them. Shithousery incoming
Made the comment earlier that I couldn't believe quansah starts for England.
Will do very well to avoid being knocked out. Penalty to the rescue
f**k this game has everything
Penalty to England. 3-1!
Kane give them breathing space...they will still do well to hold on would say.
Does the ref value the lives of his family ?
Mexico absolute shite at the back.
Mexico still have loads of time
Quote from: weareros on July 06, 2026, 03:23:23 AMMexico absolute shite at the back.
Loads of long balls for england working really well, they obviously found a massive weakness
Gordon playing a blinder
Penalty for Mexico. 3-2!
Seems harsh that
Going be a good finish to game now.
This is f**king mental
Some craic this game.
Games gone
Glad I stayed up. Some game.
On RTE, er Geo blocked you know!!
Gordon is exciting...brutal peno call. Kane did not even see guy, nerve conduction speed rules out any ill intent.
VAR just creates drama..maybe good from that POV
Are the RTE lads in the stadium or commentating from Dublin?
O Reilly lucky enough there. The Mexicans will be winding them up.non-stop. tuchel has taken him off realising he ain't got a cool head
Spence on he is super shite so chance for mexico
Think for England, its now what they have, they hold
Quote from: Nanderson on July 06, 2026, 03:40:25 AMThink for England, its now what they have, they hold
Yes What we have we hold tactics by Tuchel now, remains to be seen will it work.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 06, 2026, 03:37:28 AMO Reilly lucky enough there. The Mexicans will be winding them up.non-stop. tuchel has taken him off realising he ain't got a cool head
Massive issue with that side
11 minutes added on, plenty of time for Mexico if good enough.
England in stout-hearted defending territory. Grist to the mill for them.
Full time Mexico 2 England 3. Norway in Miami up next.
That was one of the all time great world cup games
Bollox
Come on Norway 🇳🇴
Brilliant win for them tbf
Amazing game up until the red card which seemed to mess up Mexico's game plan as much as Englands
Game of the tournament. It had everything.
Thank christ no extra time need sleep
Fair play to England - brilliant game and they deserved to win.
England managed that very professionally.
Was clear that mexico were going to be very one dimensional looking fir crosses out wide.
They got the first few away very easy but England started putting more pressure on the crosser and that was the game then
Long time since I got to go out to a pub and watch an evening game...jeppers that game had it all
Quote from: The Boy Wonder on July 06, 2026, 04:08:27 AMFair play to England - brilliant game and they deserved to win.
Have a word with yourself. Do we start to worry now? They'll beat Norway right :o
What's wrong with what he said ffs? Sometimes you just have to doff your cap to a team. That's a brilliant result for them. Everyone loves to hate Bellingham or go on about his ego, but the lad is phenomenal. They'd be much less of a team without him. Anthony Gordon has been rightly maligned this tournament but he showed up last night for sure. Pickford was excellent as well.
Shearer refusing to accept it was a penalty ;D
They are a better side than Norway. But Haaland...
Any team with haaland has a great chance, but I suppose so does any team with Kane.
The red card probably harmed mexico rather than England as daft as that sounds. Mexico were looking great end of first half and started settling in well in the second half when it happened after the card they seem to lose their shape and rely alot on speculative balls into the box which didn't work.
have a bad feeling about England winning the whole thing
Henderson broke his arm after the game
Eventful trip for him.
Before last night, Mexico had only lost twice in 89 competitive fixtures in the Azteca, stretching back to 1966 when it first opened.
Watching it this morning. Pickford did very well. Particularly when Mexico were looking for an equaliser. Don't think he made a mistake at all.
Amazing game, it was like the Barrera / Prince Naseem fight back in the day, but the Prince turned up this time
An all time classic and serious baws from England to get through, they'll take a lot of confidence from it and will take a good team to beat them, that said Norway look very capable too, toyed with Brazil at times, some great games to come
Watched it this morning, was some game! Actually hope they go on to win it.
Jesus tintin not in here mate
Not on a Gaa site
You can think it bit Jesus don't say it
Fair play to England. Only saw the highlights but it took some amount of grit to get a win there. Didn't think they had it in them. Would expect this to tighten them as a group. Norway should be a good game.
Quote from: gawa316 on July 06, 2026, 07:45:00 AMHenderson broke his arm after the game
How the hell did he manage to do that?
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 06, 2026, 02:38:57 AMBellingham brace in two minutes. Game over
I was struggling to stay awake after about 20 minutes . Once the second goal went in , I went to bed.
I have an awful feeling they're going to win it now.
Quote from: Armamike on July 06, 2026, 10:23:25 AMQuote from: gawa316 on July 06, 2026, 07:45:00 AMHenderson broke his arm after the game
How the hell did he manage to do that?
Slipped jumping over the advertising hoarding. He was also booked during the game despite playing 0 minutes.
It was a game where anything that could have happened, happened.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 06, 2026, 03:16:50 AMMade the comment earlier that I couldn't believe quansah starts for England.
Who the feck is Quansah anyway ? Who does he play for?
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 06, 2026, 10:27:13 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 06, 2026, 03:16:50 AMMade the comment earlier that I couldn't believe quansah starts for England.
Who the feck is Quansah anyway ? Who does he play for?
Leverkusen. Liverpool sold him last year to them.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 06, 2026, 10:27:08 AMQuote from: Armamike on July 06, 2026, 10:23:25 AMQuote from: gawa316 on July 06, 2026, 07:45:00 AMHenderson broke his arm after the game
How the hell did he manage to do that?
Slipped jumping over the advertising hoarding. He was also booked during the game despite playing 0 minutes.
It was a game where anything that could have happened, happened.
Who'll do the quizzes now?
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 06, 2026, 10:27:08 AMQuote from: Armamike on July 06, 2026, 10:23:25 AMQuote from: gawa316 on July 06, 2026, 07:45:00 AMHenderson broke his arm after the game
How the hell did he manage to do that?
Slipped jumping over the advertising hoarding. He was also booked during the game despite playing 0 minutes.
It was a game where anything that could have happened, happened.
That's crazy.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 06, 2026, 10:24:59 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 06, 2026, 02:38:57 AMBellingham brace in two minutes. Game over
I was struggling to stay awake after about 20 minutes . Once the second goal went in , I went to bed.
I have an awful feeling they're going to win it now.
First game I watched, sort of by accident as I had other business to sort out and be up for
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 05, 2026, 02:01:35 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 05, 2026, 12:43:01 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 05, 2026, 10:43:30 AMOn the back of this, can someone explain to me how FIFA have never brought in bookings retrospectively for diving? I know there are grey areas but blatant ones should be dealt with afterwards.
Where does that stop? Retrospective hand balls?
At some point the referee has to be let referee. If he decides something isn't a booking then it isn't.
Can retrospective red cards be issued?
For extreme things the ref missed like violent conduct, but there has to be a formal appeal. And the ref had to have missed it
Had anyone heard of FIFA randomly reviewing red cards
FIFA corrupt as f^&k. Would love to see Belgium pull the pin from playing US.
Waiting for the infantino speech
"Today I feel American"
Had them down to beat the belgians but now they'll be pumped for this
Quote from: marty34 on July 06, 2026, 12:09:35 PMFIFA corrupt as f^&k. Would love to see Belgium pull the pin from playing US.
That's what the US and Trump would want!
I hope it focuses Belgium and the best answer to Infantino is to beat them on the pitch.
Belgium have a right to appeal apparently. Have to say if it's not reinstated, then soccer can forget about it and do one.
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 06, 2026, 07:07:48 AMAny team with haaland has a great chance, but I suppose so does any team with Kane.
England could easily have both as their strike force had English born Haaland chose to play with them instead of Norway.
England are as good as what is left in the competition. Big confidence they'll get by jumping over all hurdles in that banana skin last night.
Workrate and togetherness on display in that game you don't normally see from a England team Bellingham for one put in some shift.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 06, 2026, 01:15:30 PMQuote from: Hoof Hearted on July 06, 2026, 07:07:48 AMAny team with haaland has a great chance, but I suppose so does any team with Kane.
England could easily have both as their strike force had English born Haaland chose to play with them instead of Norway.
England are as good as what is left in the competition. Big confidence they'll get by jumping over all hurdles in that banana skin last night.
Workrate and togetherness on display in that game you don't normally see from a England team Bellingham for one put in some shift.
Worryingly there hasn't been much in recent France or Argentina performances to suggest that England would struggle against them (should they get past Norway). Maybe Spain are coming good at the right time!
Jesus lads France had one bad show against a team that weren't there to play football. Don't panic until I say so 😜
Ps pretty sure Olise eligible for England too. Haaland and Olise would have been decent additions tbh
I didn't see anything special about Norway. Very average. Haaland could grab a few goals though . But I think England will beat them.
Its up to the Argies now.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 06, 2026, 01:35:07 PMI didn't see anything special about Norway. Very average. Haaland could grab a few goals though . But I think England will beat them.
Its up to the Argies now.
Credit where it's due to England, they got 2 good goals and the penalty and had the players to batten down the hatches when Mexico threw everything at them.
Big Dan Burn was in his element, heading and hoofing anything that came near him.
Interesting after game interview with Bellingham when he said that the current team didn't crumble like past England teams at tournaments, queue back to the Studio with Kellie in her off the shoulder number asking Rooney about that comment, and he took it in great humour, saying that they didn't turn up at the 2010 World cup to even get the chance to crumble.
England will probably beat Norway, but the Norwegians were comfortable enough against a dung(a) Brazilian team and with Haaland, they've a chance.
England will come undone against a France or Spain who have wingers of pace and skill as their fullbacks are makeshift at best and not great in general.
Hendo's arm break was bad looking...
Quote from: johnnycool on July 06, 2026, 02:05:27 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 06, 2026, 01:35:07 PMI didn't see anything special about Norway. Very average. Haaland could grab a few goals though . But I think England will beat them.
Its up to the Argies now.
Credit where it's due to England, they got 2 good goals and the penalty and had the players to batten down the hatches when Mexico threw everything at them.
Big Dan Burn was in his element, heading and hoofing anything that came near him.
Interesting after game interview with Bellingham when he said that the current team didn't crumble like past England teams at tournaments, queue back to the Studio with Kellie in her off the shoulder number asking Rooney about that comment, and he took it in great humour, saying that they didn't turn up at the 2010 World cup to even get the chance to crumble.
England will probably beat Norway, but the Norwegians were comfortable enough against a dung(a) Brazilian team and with Haaland, they've a chance.
England will come undone against a France or Spain who have wingers of pace and skill as their fullbacks are makeshift at best and not great in general.
Hendo's arm break was bad looking...
Maybe so , but they won't face France or Spain until the final. You don't want them anywhere near the final.. anything can happen in a one off match. Penalty, sending off, flukey goal. You could t enjoy the final with those backstards in it. Hoping Haaland or Messi sends them packing.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 06, 2026, 01:27:22 PMJesus lads France had one bad show against a team that weren't there to play football. Don't panic until I say so 😜
Ps pretty sure Olise eligible for England too. Haaland and Olise would have been decent additions tbh
Olise is English, born and bred. Musiala is another one that got away.
France and Spain are the 2 best sides, but are on the other half of the draw, and have tough games vs Portugal and Morocco, So England only have to beat one of them, and a one-off game can go either way. Bet England at 7-1 at start of tournament, as an emotional hedge
Trump at a press conference taking credit for overturning the red card and specifically that it happened as he made a phone call.
**** ruins everything he touches
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 06, 2026, 03:26:08 PM**** ruins everything he touches
https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Everything-Trump-Touches-Dies/Rick-Wilson/9781982103149
The man would take credit for the sun rising
There must be a little bit of life leaving his aids/advisors body every time he talks
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 06, 2026, 03:33:58 PMThe man would take credit for the sun rising
There must be a little bit of life leaving his aids/advisors body every time he talks
They know the kind of vile human being he is, yet they serve him, so some unhinged outpourings would pale into insignificance, wouldn't even raise an eyebrow I'd say
That was a smash and grab victory for England. They had about 5 attacks and because Mexico were so poor at back, they got goals from 3 of them. Mexico are a small but skillful team that somehow thought their best chance of an equalising goal was a cross into box and beating English defenders with a header, while England were bringing on big lads like Stones to comfortably deal with it. Norway are a stronger physical team. England will struggle against them. I think they go out this coming weekend. The fact they now think they are great after this game only solidifies my belief.
Quote from: JoG2 on July 06, 2026, 03:43:53 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 06, 2026, 03:33:58 PMThe man would take credit for the sun rising
There must be a little bit of life leaving his aids/advisors body every time he talks
They know the kind of vile human being he is, yet they serve him, so some unhinged outpourings would pale into insignificance, wouldn't even raise an eyebrow I'd say
https://x.com/Acyn/status/2074136990191436149?s=20
I suppose we shouldn't give this clown the attention but jees this is a hard listen.
Anyway yes England will not find it easy against Norway, they've struggled with similar teams before. Keep the faith lads!
It was every bit the ambush, but executed very well with plenty of control shown ahead of the second half chaos, and then found a way to ride it out
Talk of a tubthumping half time team talk against Croatia and that backs to the wall win in the lions den last night they'll be lifting some serious energy and belief ahead of the next game, Norway were very impressive too and will be equally buoyant
Availability/selection will have a huge say in the QF, if both teams come out to play it could be another cracker, don't see either team sitting back, Norway will try and wrestle control, England will try and overwhelm with power and pace, one not to be missed
"And this referee, who is a little bit suspect—if you check his past. I don't want to say that because I don't like to create controversy, but very suspect. If you'd like, I'll provide you with his past"
A one man Chutzpah machine
Re England. Imagine had they beat Brazil rather than Norway. The delicious hype we could enjoy leading to the inevitable gut wrenching defeat.
Kane v Haaland!
So Trump by saying he spoke with Infantino is implicating FIFA and himself in corruption. Couldn't make this up.
Any wonder folk lose more and more interest in elite soccer, the corruption and greed just gets more ridiculous while the product deteriates
Quote from: Armamike on July 06, 2026, 04:30:37 PMKane v Haaland!
So Trump by saying he spoke with Infantino is implicating FIFA and himself in corruption. Couldn't make this up.
The man enables genocide without a second thought, fitbaw corruption doesn't even register in his thinking, Belgium should find the biggest platform they have and call them both out publicly as cheats and be done with it
Quote from: JoG2 on July 06, 2026, 03:43:53 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 06, 2026, 03:33:58 PMThe man would take credit for the sun rising
There must be a little bit of life leaving his aids/advisors body every time he talks
They know the kind of vile human being he is, yet they serve him, so some unhinged outpourings would pale into insignificance, wouldn't even raise an eyebrow I'd say
There is every chance they are also vile human beings.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 06, 2026, 05:19:01 PMQuote from: JoG2 on July 06, 2026, 03:43:53 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 06, 2026, 03:33:58 PMThe man would take credit for the sun rising
There must be a little bit of life leaving his aids/advisors body every time he talks
They know the kind of vile human being he is, yet they serve him, so some unhinged outpourings would pale into insignificance, wouldn't even raise an eyebrow I'd say
There is every chance they are also vile human beings.
The more vile you are, the more money you can make in the USA.
Everyone in the inner circle gets a go at getting rich, in Trumpland; everyone around him, within his coterie, is happy & willing to do his every bidding.
You can now add FIFA to his fan base. Although, it has to be said that it always was a corrupt organisation, to start off with.
Infantino has been kissing ass for quite some time & is rapidly selling football out.
Belgium should withdraw & Trump will start nuking 'em, as if they were Iranians.
At what point do countries seriously have to take action here? This is basically a case of FIFA going "Yeah we know that this is political influence, and we know that you know that too. But we don't care and we're going to do it anyway." There's no hiding this, or trying to argue the case for it. It's just so blatant that it's absurd. How can soccer look at this and not understand that this will tarnish soccer globally. The image of fair play will be gone completely. Even back pedalling now is going to look terrible.
I could half agree if the tackle was a bit iffy, but it's a blatant red card, whether there's intention or accidental it's a red
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 06, 2026, 05:53:31 PMAt what point do countries seriously have to take action here? This is basically a case of FIFA going "Yeah we know that this is political influence, and we know that you know that too. But we don't care and we're going to do it anyway." There's no hiding this, or trying to argue the case for it. It's just so blatant that it's absurd. How can soccer look at this and not understand that this will tarnish soccer globally. The image of fair play will be gone completely. Even back pedalling now is going to look terrible.
You think it's bad now? Just wait till Trump hands over the trophy to Team USA on 19th July; he's already agreed the outcome, with Infantino.
Putin will be raging he didn't think to put a phone call or 2 into FIFA when they were hosting.
Quote from: square_ball on July 06, 2026, 07:58:16 PMPutin will be raging he didn't think to put a phone call or 2 into FIFA when they were hosting.
Its like the Twilight Zone episode "its a good life"
Whenever he does something anathaema for other POTUS or world leaders the reaction is
"Its good the President did that, its very good!"
I cannot forget Infantino rubbing shoulders with Putin not long after the Skripal were poisioned in Sailsbury, and just a few short years after the first invasion of Ukraine. That was an indicator of what was to come.
Martinez barely including Ronaldo in the tactical chat to the team at the water break is very funny given he won't take him off,
From Belgium FA.
QuoteRBFA STATEMENT UPDATE
Following its previous statement, the RBFA wishes to publicly explain the events of the past few hours.
After learning through media reports of FIFA's decision to lift the automatic suspension of player Balogun, the RBFA sent a letter to FIFA requesting a copy of the decision, an explanation of the process that had been followed, and setting out its position regarding the applicable regulations.
As its only response, FIFA sent a letter to the RBFA stating that it considered this correspondence to constitute an appeal, that a judge had been appointed, and that the RBFA had only a few hours to complete that appeal. No information whatsoever was provided by FIFA.
For an appeal to be admissible, FIFA's own regulations state that the reasoned decision must first have been communicated to the appellant. While the RBFA was merely seeking legitimate explanations, FIFA itself created an appeal and immediately ensured that it would be declared inadmissible.
All of this occurred while FIFA simultaneously refused to respond to the RBFA's legitimate requests.
Furthermore, during the match coordination meeting, FIFA deliberately removed the section concerning the automatic suspension of players from its presentation. This topic had nonetheless been part of all such meetings before each of the previous four matches. The RBFA questioned FIFA, both orally and in writing, about the reasons for this change, yet once again received no response.
To be clear, as of this moment, the RBFA has still not received any decision or any explanation from FIFA regarding this matter. It therefore has no alternative but to challenge the player's eligibility for the upcoming match.
Regardless of the sporting outcome of this match, the RBFA is deeply concerned by the course of events and will continue to fight in the coming hours, days and months in defence of the fundamental principles of ethics, fair competition, and the interests of football as a whole.
I'm honestly can't believe the level of corruption here. (I know, I know, too naive!) Or rather the blatant nature of it. Surely there has to be some sort of pushback here?
FIFA should live to regret their recent behaviour.
They've always been corrupt in their own half boys club, half secret society sort of way. Indeed I'd harbour a guess that their feeder organisations and the feeders to those organisations tended to operate in a similar manner at a national and regional level. Meaning that those who were able to climb the ranks knew which ladders led to where.
But this blatant and extraordinarily open declaration that they're above the law, above the rules, above reproach of any sort, can only work in a fascist regime.
And I don't think FIFA hold the balance of power they might believe.
Should any 3 of say Spain, England, Germany, France or Italy get together and jump ship, then FIFA's reign is over. Of course they'd sue, of course they'd fight, of course they'd wrangle. And there would be a period of a few years when the international game is a mess while sides are taken, conditions and constitutions are defined, and mergers are discussed.
But sooner or later it has to happen.
Infantino is the devil.
Sepp Blatter would have been red-faced at this.
In other news this match is very frustrating.
*That's better.
Very poor game. No urgency to it at all until now from Portugal.
Cowardly display from Portugal.
What a waste of top class talent.
Well, that was dull.
Quote from: SouthOfThe Bann on July 06, 2026, 10:01:36 PMCowardly display from Portugal.
What a waste of top class talent.
Cowardly manager got what he deserved in the end.
Martinez continues to spoof through life. Watch him end up in another great job and do f**k All
Better team won, that Ronaldo fella is a cod.
Ramos twiddling his thumbs on the bench again.
Delighted with that.. Ronaldo's ego dented and that fraud Martinez who has failed upwards out.
Portugal offered nothing going forward.
Just seen the accident!
f**k me, stretcher and oxygen! Broken his wrist ffs!
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 06, 2026, 09:34:43 PMFrom Belgium FA.
QuoteRBFA STATEMENT UPDATE
Following its previous statement, the RBFA wishes to publicly explain the events of the past few hours.
After learning through media reports of FIFA's decision to lift the automatic suspension of player Balogun, the RBFA sent a letter to FIFA requesting a copy of the decision, an explanation of the process that had been followed, and setting out its position regarding the applicable regulations.
As its only response, FIFA sent a letter to the RBFA stating that it considered this correspondence to constitute an appeal, that a judge had been appointed, and that the RBFA had only a few hours to complete that appeal. No information whatsoever was provided by FIFA.
For an appeal to be admissible, FIFA's own regulations state that the reasoned decision must first have been communicated to the appellant. While the RBFA was merely seeking legitimate explanations, FIFA itself created an appeal and immediately ensured that it would be declared inadmissible.
All of this occurred while FIFA simultaneously refused to respond to the RBFA's legitimate requests.
Furthermore, during the match coordination meeting, FIFA deliberately removed the section concerning the automatic suspension of players from its presentation. This topic had nonetheless been part of all such meetings before each of the previous four matches. The RBFA questioned FIFA, both orally and in writing, about the reasons for this change, yet once again received no response.
To be clear, as of this moment, the RBFA has still not received any decision or any explanation from FIFA regarding this matter. It therefore has no alternative but to challenge the player's eligibility for the upcoming match.
Regardless of the sporting outcome of this match, the RBFA is deeply concerned by the course of events and will continue to fight in the coming hours, days and months in defence of the fundamental principles of ethics, fair competition, and the interests of football as a whole.
I'm honestly can't believe the level of corruption here. (I know, I know, too naive!) Or rather the blatant nature of it. Surely there has to be some sort of pushback here?
Why all the shock isn't this what we do in GAA all the time.
Don't remember an American president, or an Irish one just to humour you, getting involved in such matters, but continue
That's the end of Ronaldo as a player but will probably see him managing Portugal in 2030 at home. If God spares me.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 06, 2026, 10:07:22 PMDelighted with that.. Ronaldo's ego dented and that fraud Martinez who has failed upwards out.
Portugal offered nothing going forward.
You'd have to feel sorry for the Portuguese players - they have had about 5 years (at least) of this fiasco.
Martinez looks to have Ronaldo playing full games as part of his contract. And was content to roll with that and collect his wages.
You'd imagine jersey sales, sponsorship and endorsements of the Ronaldo image are an important part of the Portugal national team finances. Which makes Ronaldo the product more important than winning titles.
He didn't play the full game in 3 of his last 7 international matches.
Quote from: ONeill on July 06, 2026, 11:33:10 PMThat's the end of Ronaldo as a player but will probably see him managing Portugal in 2030 at home. If God spares me.
I'd say he will still be in the squad for the next Euros. Although as a 10 minute man, if the next manager has any balls.
Delighted the Portuguese are out. Ronaldo could've played a bit part role this World Cup but he wanted the spotlight on him and messed their chances up as a result
Belgium playing like a pissed off team.
Belgium up for this. 1 up after 9 mins.
Hes a me me me. No though of his country at all! He was only good for 25mins this time round.
This is the first time I have warmed to a Belgian team since euro 80
The US defence is so open that Trump will run his 2028 campaign on closing it down
Ronaldo thoughts after Portugal's World Cup exit.
QuoteTomorrow I'll wake up just as I did today: with a clear conscience. I played for the national team for 23 years and won three titles; before Cristiano, Portugal hadn't won anything. The European Championship was the most important one. For me, 2016 holds the same significance as a World Cup
Much more accomplished and controlled win over a host by Belgium than England's. When they add a bit of passion to their technical ability they are still a team to be reckoned with. That's a hammering.
Belgium 4 USA 1.
Trump getting his buddy Gianni Infantino to lift the one match ban on Folarin Balogun backfired spectacularly.
A well deserved beating handed out by Belgium. I think the red card back fired spectacularly- well done Donald ! USA were crap all over the pitch. Ref didn't fold either!
Ultimately outclassed by a Belgian team that had yet to ignite. Wotsit fingers provided that spark and Belgium wasted no time with the gasoline.
Feel sorry for the many solid USA fans who didn't get to finish up this World Cup without this nonsense tainting it.
Quote from: playwiththewind1st on July 06, 2026, 07:02:42 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 06, 2026, 05:53:31 PMAt what point do countries seriously have to take action here? This is basically a case of FIFA going "Yeah we know that this is political influence, and we know that you know that too. But we don't care and we're going to do it anyway." There's no hiding this, or trying to argue the case for it. It's just so blatant that it's absurd. How can soccer look at this and not understand that this will tarnish soccer globally. The image of fair play will be gone completely. Even back pedalling now is going to look terrible.
You think it's bad now? Just wait till Trump hands over the trophy to Team USA on 19th July; he's already agreed the outcome, with Infantino.
::) Over react much?
US atrocious throughout. Got the luck to get back into it and then threw it straight away
A total clusterfuck
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2026/07/05/president-trump-delighted-fifa-cancel-folarin-baloguns-ban/
Fifa's scrapping of Balogun's suspension after Mr Trump's intervention has provoked the first major rebellion in the game against Infantino.
Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, Uefa and the federations of Germany and Belgium launched unprecedented attacks on Infantino, who has faced repeated accusations of cosying up to Mr Trump.
"This is our sport, not theirs," said Klopp. "If Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino really sorted this out between themselves, it is madness; it calls everything into question."
Calls for Infantino to resign then followed from senior MPs, campaigners and David Bernstein, the former Football Association chairman.
Bernstein, who had been a leading voice in challenging Infantino's disgraced predecessor Sepp Blatter, said the Balogun situation was "absolutely wrong, awful".
Fifa's decision to rescind Balogun's ban has opened up a can of worms and the Football Association is weighing up whether to challenge Jarell Quansah's suspension after he was sent off in England's 3-2 win against Mexico. France are now also attempting to have Michael Olise's yellow card in their victory over Paraguay annulled.
Sources close to talks claim Mr Trump discussed the matter three times with Infantino.
Infantino maintains Fifa's decision on Balogun was independent, and unrelated to his conversation with the US president.
But Mr Trump had already claimed credit for getting the red card overturned. "I'm the one that got them to do it," Mr Trump said.
"I saw the play, and I'm a person that loves sports. That wasn't a foul. That wasn't even an infraction... this referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past. He made a call that nobody could believe... he's our best player, or one of our best players. And he gave him a red card.
Clive Betts, a Labour MP who is chair of the all-party parliamentary group for football, said: "The first thing they've got to do is explain their decision and if it literally was just a phone call from Trump then I'm sorry, but I think he has to resign or Fifa has to sack him if he won't."
Infantino must go," added Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader. "No matter where it's held, the World Cup belongs to the fans – not gangsters like Trump."
Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader, has called for Infantino to resign Credit: Thomas Krych/Anadolu via Getty Images
Tim Farron, the former Lib Dem leader, said: "Balogun's red card 'suspension' is straight-up tin-pot corruption. Infantino must surely resign for this. Meanwhile maybe Starmer should pick up the phone and demand Quansah's red be reversed?"
'Infantino should resign immediately'
Gerry Sutcliffe, the former sports minister, said: "This clearly is an appalling situation where politicians and sport executives have ruined the integrity of the game. Infantino should resign immediately and Fifa should hold an immediate inquiry. President Trump admits contacting Infantino. The USA should not play the player involved for the good of the game."
Infantino said in response that "Fifa's judicial bodies are independent" and "operate autonomously" of his influence.
Of his conversation with Mr Trump, he said: "During our conversation, I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving Fifa's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies. That is how Fifa's system works, and it is a principle that I will always uphold."
The explanation did not satisfy his critics, however. The Labour peer Lord Rees said: "It's just an embarrassment to the sport. I hope the United States doesn't want to be associated with it."
Clive Efford, the Labour MP for Eltham and Chislehurst, said: "This is a complete disgrace and brings shame on United States football. It shows that Fifa is still rotten to the core and needs root and branch change, starting with Infantino."
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Noah Law, the Labour MP for St Austell, wrote to Infantino urging him to lift Quansah's suspension. Another European football leader, speaking privately, told Telegraph Sport: "If this is a direct response to US lobbying, this is not far short of a governing body aiding match-fixing."
Mr Trump, however, insisted that Fifa made a "really brilliant decision" to suspend the red card. "I think the referee's call was horrible," he said, before adding that he had asked only for a review. "I didn't tell them what to do. I can't tell them what to do."
There were further claims on Sunday by Clay Travis, the prominent American political commentator, author and radio host, that Mr Trump, Howard Lutnick, the US commerce secretary, and Andrew Giuliani, the head of the White House World Cup task force, put together a team of external lawyers to challenge the red card.
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Travis claimed they specifically challenged the use of slow-motion instant replay in awarding the red card and felt this violated Fifa rules.
Reflecting on the crisis, Jamie Carragher, the former England defender, said the situation was "unbelievable". Gary Neville, a former England team-mate, added on Sky Sports News that "I've never seen anything like it in my life".
Pierluigi Collina, Fifa referees' chief, has jumped to the defence of Raphael Claus after the official at the centre of the Balogun controversy was described as "a little bit suspect" by Mr Trump.
Mr Trump cast aspersions on Claus' integrity after the Brazil referee sent off Balogun during the US's 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina after being sent to the pitch-side monitor by the VAR.
But Collina, Fifa's chief refereeing officer and chairman of the Referees' Committee, said: "Raphael Claus is refereeing at his second FIFA World Cup having been with us in Qatar in 2022. He is an experienced and highly respected referee and we maintain full confidence in him as a trusted match official."
Collina's remarks followed a statement from the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) backing Claus.
It said: "The Referees Committee of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) wishes to express its full recognition of the career, professionalism, honesty, independence, and professional competence of South American referee Raphael Claus, amply demonstrated throughout his distinguished career in international refereeing.
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"In this regard, it expresses its full and unwavering support for his work, reaffirming its confidence in his professionalism, integrity, and the commitment with which he performs his duties in service to world football."
Fifa and the Fifa Referees' Committee said: "Fifa recognises Raphael Claus as one of the world's leading professional referees and a valued member of Team One at the Fifa World Cup. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity."
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 06, 2026, 10:03:51 PMMartinez continues to spoof through life. Watch him end up in another great job and do f**k All
He'll probably end up with the Spain job knowing that fella!
And now the US are out all the talk about the Trump involvement in the ban being suspended will fizzle out but its actually mental what has happened there.
Quote from: ONeill on July 07, 2026, 12:01:18 AMHe didn't play the full game in 3 of his last 7 international matches.
Very good ;)
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 07, 2026, 02:58:55 AMBelgium 4 USA 1.
Trump getting his buddy Gianni Infantino to lift the one match ban on Folarin Balogun backfired spectacularly.
A great result for football.
Prior to the Balogan farce it looked as though Belgium where a team that needed put out of their misery. Don't see them beating Spain but that was a great result last night against a USA team who had looked decent up to then.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cx2xxl6772no
Good news for England their first choice right back available for the weekend. Norway have had good threat down the left side most of the tournament.
https://x.com/dekunlz/status/2074029530251989179?s=46&t=zMI0pHqP8aYtYYerofczvg
Found the unseriousness of this hilarious.
Bit of karma for The World Cup, trump wants to touch everything and and everything he touches he makes it worse. My biggest gripe is there is no accountability for Infantino for his part.
Infantino is beginning to make Blatter look like a saint. That's some achievement.
Trump will likely bomb Belgium now.
(https://i.ibb.co/5XPrq8gh/ezgif-3a326c4984b97d20.gif)
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 07, 2026, 11:16:10 AM(https://i.ibb.co/5XPrq8gh/ezgif-3a326c4984b97d20.gif)
Love how they felt no need to edit Mugsy's hair.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 07, 2026, 11:16:10 AM(https://i.ibb.co/5XPrq8gh/ezgif-3a326c4984b97d20.gif)
Definitely overcarries it.
Clearly a free out, for not wearing his Make America Great Again cap.
The orange one and the ginger one
The red hand and the red tie
https://www.ft.com/content/629cedac-1ed9-42a7-b1cc-bc6cd2384f6c?syn-25a6b1a6=1
Controlled possession is Argentina's game now. Their assistant coach Matías Manna, who is also a novelist, says Argentina's style is "the short pass . . . joining together to touch the ball, the Argentine touch, not imitating the European model". In 2022, he told me it is "Europeanising" to dismiss that style as obsolete. And so Argentina weave intricate passes in midfield, hardly ever attempting crosses or quick counter-attacks. Messi wanders where he likes, sometimes dropping back to make play, sometimes loitering at outside-right, always aiming to end up just outside the penalty area. That's where Argentina's attacks are directed. Players on the wings function chiefly as decoys, luring opponents away from Messi's hunting ground in the centre. He has lost his acceleration, and rarely dribbles any more. Instead he has become what his Portuguese rival Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, dreams of being: a guaranteed goalscorer. Yet Argentina struggled mightily to beat tiny Cape Verde 3-2. Their "Messidependencia" is extreme. Playing without pace is a weakness. They defend poorly, barely ever pressing, and seldom even putting pressure on opponents with the ball. If a 39-year-old can win them another World Cup, it might be the most remarkable individual feat in the tournament's history.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 07, 2026, 02:29:27 AMRonaldo thoughts after Portugal's World Cup exit.
QuoteTomorrow I'll wake up just as I did today: with a clear conscience. I played for the national team for 23 years and won three titles; before Cristiano, Portugal hadn't won anything. The European Championship was the most important one. For me, 2016 holds the same significance as a World Cup
For a man who is clearly very mentally strong, he often comes across as weak.
Has made millions (billion even)? Has won practically every trophy possible world cup apart, won ballon dors, but yet Messi lives rent free in his head 🤣
Ronaldo obviously lives rent free in most people heads, especially here
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 10:59:04 AMTrump will likely bomb Belgium now.
Tariffs coming. Not sure who the bigger narcissist is - Trump or Ronaldo.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 10:59:04 AMTrump will likely bomb Belgium now.
2 weeks away from being able to build a nuclear bomb apparently
Will Trump be at the final to hand over the trophy?
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 05:06:55 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 10:59:04 AMTrump will likely bomb Belgium now.
2 weeks away from being able to build a nuclear bomb apparently
(https://theplayersaid.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/img_3302-e1537903272574.jpg)
Quote from: marty34 on July 07, 2026, 05:07:53 PMWill Trump be at the final to hand over the trophy?
More likely to grab it & melt it down, while Infantino buries his tongue deep in his ass.
Messi might need to give up the auld penalty taking.
This game has that strange feeling of a massive upset.
Egypt playing well.. Look a lot more energetic than Argentina at the moment. Not much width in the Argentine attack, a lot of traffic in the middle to try and get through
Who is going to rescue us from England winning this thing?!
Let off for Argentina, it stays 1-0.
Games gone
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 06:25:00 PMGames gone
Its harsh but there was a jersey pull and he stood on his foot so technically its the right decision
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2026, 06:23:48 PMWho is going to rescue us from England winning this thing?!
VAR
2-0 this time. Good counter attack goal.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2026, 06:23:48 PMWho is going to rescue us from England winning this thing?!
Haaland hopefully
The Red Sea is parting for those Sassenach b******s.
That's them in the final now.
Quote from: straightred on July 07, 2026, 06:25:55 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 06:25:00 PMGames gone
Its harsh but there was a jersey pull and he stood on his foot so technically its the right decision
Nah not for me sorry. How far away from the nets like. Went down so easy tho didn't see the standing on foot tbh
Anyways, no doubt about that one. Overall prob would've preferred the argies to win to set up some big tussles down the line but fair play to egypt
Two fantastic bits of play there from Hassan
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 06:34:16 PMThe Red Sea is parting for those Sassenach b******s.
That's them in the final now.
I toul yis don't panic till I say it's time to panic
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 06:36:06 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 06:34:16 PMThe Red Sea is parting for those Sassenach b******s.
That's them in the final now.
I toul yis don't panic till I say it's time to panic
Anything to be said for another mass? Say a prayer to St Erling?
Argentina have been awful Egypt full value for the lead.
Game on now.
One back for Argentina
Squeaky bum time for the Egyptians.
2-2. 2 goals in 4 minutes.
He just wanted a challenge.. Can't write that little magician off
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 07, 2026, 06:47:57 PMHe just wanted a challenge.. Can't write that little magician off
Dare I say it before that he was looking almost human.
Ah bitta tension and drama is all ye want and we have it now (but france to win as I have them in a sweepstake)
3-2 Argentina showing why they are the defending champions.
What a header! Great 2nd half.. Are they doing a VAR review?
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 07, 2026, 06:57:49 PMWhat a header! Great 2nd half.. Are they doing a VAR review?
It was a brilliant header but that cross was sublime.
Wonder what odds the Argies were at the last water break?
Quote from: square_ball on July 07, 2026, 07:00:11 PMWonder what odds the Argies were at the last water break?
Bladdy right mate, them Argie cants
Game's gone...2 Egypt penalties, no?
Why the GOAT is the GOAT
Been a great World Cup so far imo.
A couple of dubious decisions in Argentina's favour, but we need them there to possibly beat those feckers later on.
Although hopefully Norway and Haaland can put them out, but I doubt it.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 07:09:08 PMA couple of dubious decisions in Argentina's favour, but we need them there to possibly beat those feckers later on.
Although hopefully Norway and Haaland can put them out, but I doubt it.
need to see it again. Had Egypt a good shout for a peno just before the 3rd goal
Quote from: straightred on July 07, 2026, 07:10:40 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 07:09:08 PMA couple of dubious decisions in Argentina's favour, but we need them there to possibly beat those feckers later on.
Although hopefully Norway and Haaland can put them out, but I doubt it.
need to see it again. Had Egypt a good shout for a peno just before the 3rd goal
Think would've been soft tbh
However had it happened in the other box....
Pretty clear Egypt had a goal disallowed for a foul thst wasn't then given to them when Argentina scored.
Superb 20 mins from Argentina.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 07, 2026, 07:09:08 PMA couple of dubious decisions in Argentina's favour, but we need them there to possibly beat those feckers later on.
Although hopefully Norway and Haaland can put them out, but I doubt it.
I'd not want to be relying on that Argentina team beating England.
Great news for Peter Shilton if they're going that far back to review decisions 🤣🤣🤣
Columbia v Switzerland shortly
Or Charlie v the chocolate factory 😄😄
I'll stop now 🤝
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 06:35:06 PMQuote from: straightred on July 07, 2026, 06:25:55 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 06:25:00 PMGames gone
Its harsh but there was a jersey pull and he stood on his foot so technically its the right decision
Nah not for me sorry. How far away from the nets like. Went down so easy tho didn't see the standing on foot tbh
Anyways, no doubt about that one. Overall prob would've preferred the argies to win to set up some big tussles down the line but fair play to egypt
Yep, some very poor decisions there. If they're disallowing the Egypt goal for that then they could just as easily have given them a penalty or two. Big teams getting the decisions again.
Delighted to see the Argies go through though as the Brits would have cruised to the final. Argies need to buck up their ideas a bit
Minor contact on Mo who was on his way down anyway. Would have been the softest of soft pens.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 07:22:31 PMGreat news for Peter Shilton if they're going that far back to review decisions 🤣🤣🤣
On the topic of Peter Shilton, an old one and still a good one.
(https://i.ibb.co/NdxHWct2/Screenshot-20260706-003210-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/XrXvFcjx)
I think he responded and said "He (diego) cheated" to which someone replied so did you when you met her. Could be my memory is off but I think I saw that.
Quote from: marty34 on July 07, 2026, 05:07:53 PMWill Trump be at the final to hand over the trophy?
FIFA might give it to him. First POTUS World Cup winner
Colombian lads not afraid of the dentist.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 07:37:05 PMColumbia v Switzerland shortly
Or Charlie v the chocolate factory 😄😄
I'll stop now 🤝
Well done sir, well done.
Quote from: andoireabu on July 07, 2026, 09:03:52 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 07, 2026, 07:37:05 PMColumbia v Switzerland shortly
Or Charlie v the chocolate factory 😄😄
I'll stop now 🤝
Well done sir, well done.
Ah X has its benefits amigo 🤝😄
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 07, 2026, 08:57:13 PMColombian lads not afraid of the dentist.
Noticed that, think they all have went to the same one!
Are you entertained by this spectacle?
(https://c.tenor.com/8XIo8ys9vBAAAAAd/tenor.gif)
Last 8 teams
European(France,England,Belgium,Spain,Norway,Switzerland)
African (Morocco)
South American (Argentina)
Just a shame both couldn't go out.
That was dull.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 07, 2026, 11:50:35 PMLast 8 teams
European(France,England,Belgium,Spain,Norway,Switzerland)
African (Morocco)
South American (Argentina)
Only one European team to win in the Americas
Argentina are jammy b@stards. They will probably win it now. A terrible group with Algeria, Jordan and a poor Austria. Struggled against cape Verde and Egypt FFS and now have the weakest team left switzerland. They will be in a SF without actually playing any decent team. The Dutch should have dumped them out in 2022 didn't and they then went on to win 2 penalty shootouts to be champions - can see a similar thing again
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 08, 2026, 07:54:26 AMArgentina are jammy b@stards. They will probably win it now. A terrible group with Algeria, Jordan and a poor Austria. Struggled against cape Verde and Egypt FFS and now have the weakest team left switzerland. They will be in a SF without actually playing any decent team. The Dutch should have dumped them out in 2022 didn't and they then went on to win 2 penalty shootouts to be champions - can see a similar thing again
With the amount of teams and a number of third places going through the groups were all shadow boxing really with no threat of any big teams going out. That said, they have got a dead handy run to date.
Would have preferred Colombia to win the game as Argentina/Colombia would have been a better spectacle the Swiss will just sit in and hope to win on penalties.
Quote from: statto on July 08, 2026, 08:49:33 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 08, 2026, 07:54:26 AMArgentina are jammy b@stards. They will probably win it now. A terrible group with Algeria, Jordan and a poor Austria. Struggled against cape Verde and Egypt FFS and now have the weakest team left switzerland. They will be in a SF without actually playing any decent team. The Dutch should have dumped them out in 2022 didn't and they then went on to win 2 penalty shootouts to be champions - can see a similar thing again
With the amount of teams and a number of third places going through the groups were all shadow boxing really with no threat of any big teams going out. That said, they have got a dead handy run to date.
Would have preferred Colombia to win the game as Argentina/Colombia would have been a better spectacle the Swiss will just sit in and hope to win on penalties.
The Swiss are always a hard watch at these tournaments. I think there was one game they played v France in the Euros where it was a great game but bar that they are the football definition of meh.
One thing for certain: the brilliant disallowed goal for the Egyptians would not have been chalked off for the Argentinians or any of the other favoured nations. I'd worry for VAR if Argentina meet England. It might spontaneously combust unable to make a decision.
The Swiss could follow that format to the final hoping to win off penalties from here on in
Four teams from Spain, France, England and Argentina should, be playing in the semi-finals
Can Morocco be the team to upset things? The have played well enough in games, Norway could prove difficult for England but the English will find a way? Belgium, think they played their match v the USA and won't be going much further as Spain won't cough up the ball that much.. If the Swiss snuff out Argentina's game plan they might take it to penalties
Quote from: weareros on July 08, 2026, 10:34:31 AMOne thing for certain: the brilliant disallowed goal for the Egyptians would not have been chalked off for the Argentinians or any of the other favoured nations. I'd worry for VAR if Argentina meet England. It might spontaneously combust unable to make a decision.
Heard alot about how var is helping out the big teams.
Wasn't much use to France against Paraguay the other night.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 08, 2026, 10:51:45 AMQuote from: weareros on July 08, 2026, 10:34:31 AMOne thing for certain: the brilliant disallowed goal for the Egyptians would not have been chalked off for the Argentinians or any of the other favoured nations. I'd worry for VAR if Argentina meet England. It might spontaneously combust unable to make a decision.
Heard alot about how var is helping out the big teams.
Wasn't much use to France against Paraguay the other night.
VAR still gave France the penalty missed by the referee. Not so good catching fouls in penalty area for African nations. But goes all the way up the pitch to claim this was a foul. Then McAllisters shirt pull in penalty box was a foul if that was a foul.
https://x.com/calebdesignsx/status/2074551072799313975?s=46
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 08, 2026, 07:54:26 AMArgentina are jammy b@stards. They will probably win it now. A terrible group with Algeria, Jordan and a poor Austria. Struggled against cape Verde and Egypt FFS and now have the weakest team left switzerland. They will be in a SF without actually playing any decent team. The Dutch should have dumped them out in 2022 didn't and they then went on to win 2 penalty shootouts to be champions - can see a similar thing again
Would you rather England won it? :o
While it would be great to see good games from now on , that rarely happens. The main thing is for England to go out asap, have them nowhere near a final. After that , who gives a shite. I'd happily watch dross matches knowing those b******s are back home.
Quote from: lurganblue on July 07, 2026, 03:57:01 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 07, 2026, 02:29:27 AMRonaldo thoughts after Portugal's World Cup exit.
QuoteTomorrow I'll wake up just as I did today: with a clear conscience. I played for the national team for 23 years and won three titles; before Cristiano, Portugal hadn't won anything. The European Championship was the most important one. For me, 2016 holds the same significance as a World Cup
For a man who is clearly very mentally strong, he often comes across as weak.
The game he had to leave early doors due to injury!!!
Quote from: johnnycool on July 08, 2026, 11:31:09 AMQuote from: lurganblue on July 07, 2026, 03:57:01 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 07, 2026, 02:29:27 AMRonaldo thoughts after Portugal's World Cup exit.
QuoteTomorrow I'll wake up just as I did today: with a clear conscience. I played for the national team for 23 years and won three titles; before Cristiano, Portugal hadn't won anything. The European Championship was the most important one. For me, 2016 holds the same significance as a World Cup
For a man who is clearly very mentally strong, he often comes across as weak.
The game he had to leave early doors due to injury!!!
FFS, the man played in the tournament, he's a egotistical p***k, but his football (before age took its toll) speaks for itself
Paddy Power Odds.
(https://i.ibb.co/FLRqkgF8/Screenshot-20260708-172404-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/q3TFLkvm)
(https://i.ibb.co/jPdJysbD/Screenshot-20260708-172424-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DHNr9TzQ)
Argentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
Agreed. I couldn't watch a final with them in it.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 08, 2026, 06:28:11 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
Agreed. I couldn't watch a final with them in it.
2021 was beautiful but too close for comfort!
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:43:19 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 08, 2026, 06:28:11 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
Agreed. I couldn't watch a final with them in it.
2021 was beautiful but too close for comfort!
Way, way too close for comfort. QFs are even too close.
Argentina are conceding too many goals against average enough opposition. That might trip them up at some stage.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
I want England to stay in, and get to the final. It is a bit more interesting when they're playing.
Oh hell no!!!
Quote from: Orior on July 08, 2026, 09:40:50 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
I want England to stay in, and get to the final. It is a bit more interesting when they're playing.
I always have and always will say this.
Quote from: thewobbler on July 08, 2026, 10:55:16 PMQuote from: Orior on July 08, 2026, 09:40:50 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 08, 2026, 06:19:04 PMArgentina are dogged, jammy and are getting the rub of the green from officials. France are the best footballing team in it.
Would like to see Norway or Morocco do it but won't be able to enjoy it until those other f**kers are gone.
I want England to stay in, and get to the final. It is a bit more interesting when they're playing.
I always have and always will say this.
Absolutely and then lose in heart breaking circumstances....makes the pain of having to listen to them worth it!!!
Unfortunately there will come a day when they'll win something!
They deserve it. Them and France have probably been the two best teams this year. Would be a great final, two teams with a world class forward line who will just go for it.
Bellingham and Kane would start for any club in the world.
I'd be happy to see Norway send them home. Don't need England in it to make it interesting ffs.
Quote from: laoislad on July 09, 2026, 09:52:16 AMI'd be happy to see Norway send them home. Don't need England in it to make it interesting ffs.
100%
2014 was brilliant when they went out after two games, and had to play a meaningless third group match. That's what you want to see.
It was even better in 1994 when they weren't there at all.
Quote from: square_ball on July 09, 2026, 09:00:22 AMUnfortunately there will come a day when they'll win something!
With their population size and football interest they must do at some point. They have underachieved greatly.
Quansah ban doubled. Unbelievable really. Can't recall anything as obviously corrupt as the FIFA behaviour at this world cup and also with Ronaldo's suspension that was waived.
Don't know why the penalty was delayed for near 4 mins or whatever it was
What the ref at with the penalty, it was a obvious penalty from day 1. Then makes him reset it 3 times. Whats a Argie ref taking this game for. in the first place. Shit penalty at the finish
Twas very strange. The tackle previously was fine. And Maz never was close to the ball. You'd love to know what was going on.
England a stronger team than Norway who rely on 1 player!
Is there nothing Bono can't do?
Was a shite penalty. Not a fan of this staggered run up.
Quote from: laoislad on July 09, 2026, 09:34:23 PMWas a shite penalty. Not a fan of this staggered run up.
Some amount of them favouring that approach. Mental.
Quote from: laoislad on July 09, 2026, 09:34:23 PMWas a shite penalty. Not a fan of this staggered run up.
Put your laces through it.
Quote from: Puckoon on July 09, 2026, 09:35:52 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 09, 2026, 09:34:23 PMWas a shite penalty. Not a fan of this staggered run up.
Some amount of them favouring that approach. Mental.
I have yet to see a keeper fall for it and jump early
Mbappe finally hits the target. 2-0 now.
I suspect that will prove another example of an African team not getting fair play. Other way around and a handball in lead up
is checked. 2-0 up now.
Morocco have been shite
Absolutely shite
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 09, 2026, 07:49:54 PMQuansah ban doubled. Unbelievable really. Can't recall anything as obviously corrupt as the FIFA behaviour at this world cup and also with Ronaldo's suspension that was waived.
Anything hindering England is good corruption
Quote from: weareros on July 09, 2026, 10:30:24 PMI suspect that will prove another example of an African team not getting fair play. Other way around and a handball in lead up
is checked. 2-0 up now.
Which team?
There'll be fun and frolics in Paris tonight.
Déjà vu result
2022 World Cup semi-final
(https://i.ibb.co/1J7xV6YP/Screenshot-20260709-222952-Google.jpg) (https://ibb.co/S75pTrDM)
And that Quarter-final tonight.
(https://i.ibb.co/p6D6LwZJ/Screenshot-20260709-230406-Google.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0pNpG2Zh)
France v England would be the most interesting final pairing of the teams left.
5 of the top 8 ranked teams made the quarters. The other 3 who didn't are/were all managed by ex everton managers
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 09, 2026, 07:49:54 PMQuansah ban doubled. Unbelievable really. Can't recall anything as obviously corrupt as the FIFA behaviour at this world cup and also with Ronaldo's suspension that was waived.
Starmer put in a call 🤣
Only saw the pen incident once and looked clear to me but my son says he saw an angle that looked like the the back studs of the defender might've clipped the ball
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 09, 2026, 10:41:32 PMQuote from: nrico2006 on July 09, 2026, 07:49:54 PMQuansah ban doubled. Unbelievable really. Can't recall anything as obviously corrupt as the FIFA behaviour at this world cup and also with Ronaldo's suspension that was waived.
Anything hindering England is good corruption
Is the correct answer
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 10, 2026, 12:07:35 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 09, 2026, 10:41:32 PMQuote from: nrico2006 on July 09, 2026, 07:49:54 PMQuansah ban doubled. Unbelievable really. Can't recall anything as obviously corrupt as the FIFA behaviour at this world cup and also with Ronaldo's suspension that was waived.
Anything hindering England is good corruption
Is the correct answer
Can equally fire up a team. FIFA ended up galvanising Belgium; this will draw England's ire. I can see a bandaged up Hendo, escaped from hospital, invoking the spirit of Alfred the Great. Would rather they quashed it and pissed off the Norsemen.
Guehi dodgy hammy
Rice ill
Keep the faith chaps
I'd like to see a home nation win it.
If they end up the best team in it and don't win account of a fluky jammy win, then good luck to them. Wouldn't have a problem with that. But France and Spain look better, and wouldn't fancy them to beat Argentina either.
That English tackle was a bad tackle, shouldnt even be a argument over it.
Olise is the current player of the tournament for me.
He makes France tick.
And him born and reared in England ;D
Quote from: johnnycool on July 10, 2026, 10:24:51 AMOlise is the current player of the tournament for me.
He makes France tick.
And him born and reared in England ;D
He has been brilliant. Hard to believe he hasn't scored yet. But yeah he's the man that makes France tick. Reading to Palace to Bayern and now one of the best players at the World Cup for France is some career path.
Quiet last night I thought
If that overhead kick had went in from couple weeks back tho 😍
Quote from: laoislad on July 09, 2026, 09:52:16 AMI'd be happy to see Norway send them home. Don't need England in it to make it interesting ffs.
100%
Bit of a damp squib last night.
Quote from: square_ball on July 10, 2026, 10:44:00 AMQuote from: johnnycool on July 10, 2026, 10:24:51 AMOlise is the current player of the tournament for me.
He makes France tick.
And him born and reared in England ;D
He has been brilliant. Hard to believe he hasn't scored yet. But yeah he's the man that makes France tick. Reading to Palace to Bayern and now one of the best players at the World Cup for France is some career path.
Piece in yesterday's paper, City and Chelsea both released him because he was too shy. The Reading scout had to go to bat for him as the club had questions.
Imagine England with Olise and Musiala...
Quote from: johnnycool on July 10, 2026, 10:24:51 AMOlise is the current player of the tournament for me.
He makes France tick.
And him born and reared in England ;D
As was Haaland. Good job they didn't get those too. Didn't Musiala play underage for them as well?
Balogun played underage with England also. England have gained plenty of players from Caribbean and African backgrounds, can't complain about missing out on a few.
1-0 to Spain poor defending by Belgium
Belgium level it up before half time.
Much better game than France-Morocco. Courtois would be big loss if he can't continue.
How did England miss out on France star Michael Olise?
Rejected by Chelsea's and Manchester City's academies as a teenager, Olise has lit up the World Cup as part of a dazzling French side
Expand
Rob Draper
Thu Jul 09 2026 - 08:15
•
6 MIN READ
If Michael Olise wins the World Cup, there will be a corner of a Hayes housing estate that is forever France. It is Olise's corner, a scrap of parkland grass among the west London suburban homes where a seven-year-old practised his football with his brother, Richard.
"Football in these conditions, it's just freedom," Olise told L'Équipe last month. "It's not really learning in the strict sense. It was simply the pleasure of playing football. I just loved it."
Sean Conlon, one of Olise's early coaches with Old Isleworthians in west London, recalls: "I would go over to his house and he would be practising outside with Richard. That little estate probably really aided him; there weren't a lot of cars but it had a lot of concrete open space and then a small green. He'd just be practising out here all the time, obsessed with football."
Fast forward 10 years and Olise was at Reading, having been rejected by Chelsea's and Manchester City's academies. Brendan Flanagan was the academy scout who recruited him for the Championship side and recalls a game he watched.
"We were playing Sparta Prague in the European Under-21 Cup," Flanagan says. "I got there at half‑time. Michael was about 17 and on the bench. I sat in front of [the former Crystal Palace and West Ham player] Hayden Mullins, who used to work for us and who I got on well with. Michael came on with 17 minutes to go. Within five minutes Hayden leaned over to me and said: 'Who the f**k is that?!' I just started laughing. And Hayden said: 'Come on then, tell me, where did you find this one?' So I explained the story ..."
Which takes us back to Conlon and that housing estate in Hayes. Because it isn't just a mystery tale of how Chelsea and City let Olise, one of the outstanding stars of the World Cup and a Ballon d'Or contender, slip through their clutches. It is also the story of how and why he never represented England despite being born there and coming up through the English system.
"When I first saw him play for Hayes when he was six what stood out was his physical movement," says Conlon. "He glides around the pitch: very graceful, perfect co-ordination, everything effortless. The way he moves today was how he moved when he was six. That's something he's been born with. People say he's the best player England has ever developed."
Conlon had coached at Chelsea, and as soon as Olise was old enough, at nine, he was swept up into the club's academy. His talent was still evident because City took him on – he was in Cole Palmer's year group and a year behind Phil Foden – yet they also released him, at 16. At which point he returned to Conlon, who runs an academy called We Make Footballers. Olise was looking desperately for a pro club when a contact of Flanagan recommended him.
"There was a lot of scepticism from various members of staff at Reading that he would be a bad egg," says Flanagan. "[They said]: 'He's been released by Chelsea, by Man City. We shouldn't be bringing him in. He'll be a problem.' I said: 'Look, let's just get the kid in and make our decision.'"
Conlon concurs. "All the other scouts were: 'He's just come out of Manchester City, he's just come out of Chelsea, why have they not kept him on?' They were half and half. They could see him and say: 'Why are we not taking this talent?' But Reading were the ones that committed."
Olise had to travel to Reading from London for training, but the club would arrange for a shuttle bus to pick up the London trainees from the station to drive them to the training ground. "On his first day I got a call from him at the station and he was asking: 'Where do I need to pick the bus up please?'" Flanagan says. "I directed him to the shuttle bus but everything was 'please' and 'thank you' and I thought to myself: 'This ain't a bad kid. He's just a kid who's a bit misunderstood, different.'
"And we never had a problem with him. He wasn't ever a bad lad. He was always an intelligent, quiet lad who just expressed himself a bit differently. What wasn't right for them [City and Chelsea] ... well, we're just little old Reading. We can work with these kids."
Olise progressed quickly to Reading's under-21s, where Flanagan and Mullins saw him play against Sparta Prague. "He was absolutely unbelievable that day," says Flanagan. "Hayden and I shook hands at the end and said: 'This kid will play for the first team by the end of the season.'
"A few weeks later, Olise was asked to make up numbers in first‑team training by the then manager, José Gomes. "That Saturday he was on the bench and he made his debut soon after. The manager obviously saw him and thought: 'This kid is unbelievable.'"
As for England, they never came calling. Olise himself is respectful of all the countries in which he has roots. His mum, Mina, is French Algerian and his dad, Vincent, is British Nigerian. "I actually come from four countries," he told the Bayern Munich website last season. "France, Algeria, Nigeria and Great Britain. I consider myself very lucky to possess these four parts, which all enrich me.
"I've developed attachments in all my countries. When I was growing up in London, we regularly visited Algeria, Nigeria and France. My dad always spoke English with me at home, my mum, French."
France captain Kylian Mbappé (right) celebrates a goal against Sweden during the Round of 32 game with team-mate Michael Olise. Photograph: Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images
France captain Kylian Mbappé (right) celebrates a goal against Sweden during the Round of 32 game with team-mate Michael Olise. Photograph: Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images
He wasn't on England's radar as a teenager. "We weren't as attractive a club," says Flanagan. "It's slightly changed now, but back then, for England, generally, you had to come from Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.
"France reached out to us and we spoke to Michael. I think they were given information that there was a French connection. They were the first one who selected him [for the under-18s] and, even though England came in for him for the under-20s, he was happy where he was."
To be fair, England were in the midst of a golden generation of talent, fuelled by the reform of club academies which began in 2012 and now provides the bedrock of the England team. In Olise's immediate age group were Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke, with Jude Bellingham and Germany's Jamal Musiala, then at Chelsea and playing for England, the year below.
Premier League academies have educated the world; it must be frustrating for the English Football Association that the best creative player at the World Cup was born in England and yet is playing for France. Olise has provided more assists – five – than anyone else at the tournament.
"Could I see he would reach the levels that he's reached?" asks Flanagan. "I don't think anyone could. Some kids do look like they might be a Ballon d'Or contender at 16 and then kind of level out. But Michael was on a trajectory that went up and up and up, and he still hasn't levelled off. He just seems to be getting better and better. He's always had a picture in his head, saw things quicker than anyone else and had the ability to find a way to make the pass. But he's just gone to another level."
"It's crazy," says Conlon. "With the under-8s, we say to the kids: 'One day you're going to win the World Cup. One day you're going to win the Champions League.' This is why you have to have these standards. You preach it and now we've actually had someone go and do it."
All of which leaves a small dilemma for Olise's childhood mentors. What to do if England meet France in the World Cup final? "I'm going to be sat on the fence," says Flanagan. "I want Michael to do well, but I want England to win as well. So I probably won't watch the game and stay out of the way."
Jesus seafoid you love a long article I'll give you that
SoFi stadium is something else. $5 billion when built. 1000 ton suspended oval screen called "oculus".
Home to two NFL teams. Have to take hat off to Yanks at the same time, maybe they can figure out Casement
The stadiums in the US are class. Money no object.
Spain v Belgium is a tough watch.
Seys has Lamal in his pocket since he came on.
Spain look pretty ordinary.
The air conditioning in the Atlanta stadium is class with a rectractable roof if needed.
Awful goal keeping ffs
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 10, 2026, 09:50:12 PMAwful goal keeping ffs
Feel bad for the fella. Hate seeing a big match defined by a mistake. Would be delighted if it was Pickford though.
Jaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 10, 2026, 09:53:10 PMJaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
Yeah I don't get it the refusal at times to play the ball into the box or have a shot and instead play it sideways is unreal, is it a tactic to just confuse the defense for not taking half decent chances ;D
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 10, 2026, 09:53:10 PMJaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
The 2008 Spain team were an enjoyable outfit. But since then its been this same dross. Pep ball is effective but sucks any enjoyment out of a game.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 10, 2026, 09:56:46 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 10, 2026, 09:53:10 PMJaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
Yeah I don't get it the refusal at times to play the ball into the box or have a shot and instead play it sideways is unreal, is it a tactic to just confuse the defense for not taking half decent chances ;D
Been saying that all match. Overcomplicating it when 6 yards out and fannying about in possession here.
Quote from: Decod89 on July 10, 2026, 09:58:13 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 10, 2026, 09:53:10 PMJaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
The 2008 Spain team were an enjoyable outfit. But since then its been this same dross. Pep ball is effective but sucks any enjoyment out of a game.
They were sensational in the Euros a mere two years ago.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 10, 2026, 09:50:12 PMAwful goal keeping ffs
Both goals Belgium conceded was from poor goal keeping and two Keepers who have been good for their clubs.
Much like Spain v Portugal a late goal in a poor match avoids extra-time.
France v Spain probably won't be a great watch either?
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 10, 2026, 09:53:10 PMJaysus but that Spain team are a hard watch
Yeah, I hope France take them apart
An early goal is the only thing that will save the likes of fra v spa at this stage
Agree with a lot of the above so reluctant to be off the cuff always safety first. First shot from distance results in a goal. Never drive it across the box always a cut back which is inevitably cleared. Frustrating
Not been impressed with Yamal this tournament so far. One of the "big names" who's not really shone imo
57 mins for Nico Williams at this tournament. I think hes better than that.
Yamal came into the tournament with a hamstring injury that he's carried since the end of April. Clearly isn't fully fit. Nico Williams got hurt in the group stage.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 10, 2026, 11:12:29 PMNot been impressed with Yamal this tournament so far. One of the "big names" who's not really shone imo
Yeah himself and the 3 Portugal midfielders were in top form during the season, seen little or nothing from them in the World Cup
Quote from: gallsman on July 11, 2026, 08:11:22 AMYamal came into the tournament with a hamstring injury that he's carried since the end of April. Clearly isn't fully fit. Nico Williams got hurt in the group stage.
Yeah can tell he's struggling for fitness. Looks like he is forcing it as well to try and make up for it. Teams doubling up on him as well.
https://www.irishmirror.ie/showbiz/irish-showbiz/south-africa-footballer-jayden-adams-37418137.amp
It's been a shite enough World Cup overall
Yamal has been a disappointment, hasn't really counted.
Too many games,as we all knew!
South African player Jayden Adams passed away aged 25. Played in 3 of the group games.
OK, I'm calling it
1-1
Norway on penalties
Comfortable win for England. 3-1.
Yeah, Kane with a penalty with another from Jude
Can see a goal fest 3-3
England on penalties
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2026, 09:49:38 PMYeah, Kane with a penalty with another from Jude
Kane wins the pen from that dive he does where he clips his own heels
Falls over his tongue. He's never done that before
https://gaaboard.com/board/Smileys/fugue/undecided.png
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 11, 2026, 09:53:14 PMCan see a goal fest 3-3
England on penalties
Near asleep with the match so far
Haaland with a Ronaldoesque heat map so far.
Only needs one chance though.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 11, 2026, 09:53:14 PMCan see a goal fest 3-3
England on penalties
That bit you might get right.
To quote someone earlier , too much fannying about by Norway
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 11, 2026, 10:29:29 PMTo quote someone earlier , too much fannying about by Norway
It's an annoying facet of the modern game. Teams are driven by stats (xG shite etc.) now and keeping possession. The Moneyball boys in the backroom tell them passing it into the goal is considered lower risk. But it robs us of f**king belters from outside the area or dribbles from the halfway line - sure look at the goal the bastards robbed off Egypt.
What a cross/goal. Delighted for Kane lying down.
Pickfords short arms again
Man got plenty of the ball. Kane was sleeping.
Shit just got interesting
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 11, 2026, 10:37:54 PMPickfords short arms again
Good against Mexico yet his next error is never far away.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 11, 2026, 10:37:54 PMPickfords short arms again
Pickford has his Seaman moment...
Great goal. Out of the blue.
F**kin get in!!
Even sweeter as ref didn't fall for Kane's diving
I'd be shooting on sight, Pickford nervy
Norway have had 3 or 4 of the best chances.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 11, 2026, 10:40:25 PMF**kin get in!!
Even sweeter as ref didn't fall for Kane's diving
Bellingham trying a dive as well for penalty 2 mins after the goal.
Soccer full of cheating bollacks!
They surely can't get beat by a team with a man with pink hair. Can they?!
f**king hell. Sorloth has the best striker in the world inside him doesn't play him in.
Quote from: From the Bunker on July 11, 2026, 10:39:38 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 11, 2026, 10:37:54 PMPickfords short arms again
Pickford has his Seaman moment...
"Nayim, from the halfway line!"
Classic few comments from those days lol
Dickhead!
Begrudgingly that's a fantastic goal.
Ffs.
Should have been 2 nil a few minutes ago, great goal by that Bellingham twat.
Shocking defending there.
What would they be without him.
The Norway midfielder needs a chop for not passing the ball, greedy greedy!
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 11, 2026, 10:48:25 PMBegrudgingly that's a fantastic goal.
It was in fairness. He's really stepped it up for England this World Cup.
Phew!!
Quote from: weareros on July 11, 2026, 10:49:01 PMShocking defending there.
Maradona's goal v England ( not the handball) was poor defending too
Bellingham having some tournament.
That's bad by Kane. Lovely stuff again from Bellingham.
Sorloth should have played in Haaland. Bellingham equalised not long after.
Yeah Jude bit of a twat but no denying he's backing it up
Eng matches rarely dull. Could be a long night yet
Some goal; an exceptional first touch. I'll never warm to him but Bellingham is a baller
Ball touched the cable from the goal kick and should've been a whistle
...also side note...Beckham is on EVERY ad over here!
That Sorloth lad is awful.
Get in
VAR check?
Norway lead again maybe ruled out with VAR?
Yes ruled out remains 1-1.
Ah feck off
Ffs VAR - That'll be ruled out
Never a more hateful bunch of w**ks!
Jesus that's soft
Very very soft, 2 men of similar size and thats not given.
Come on, a very obvious push.
Yip a push but the same lad pulling the jersey of him on the previous corner.
The luck hanging out of these bastards
If Norway take the handbrake off they could win easily!
Hopefully the last ten minutes they have a bitta belief
England likely still get through this but France would make light work of that English defence if they meet.
I say the heat affect the Norway lads more than the English.
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 11, 2026, 11:21:43 PMCome on, a very obvious push.
Yup.
Norway have a Nusa if available is a pacey boy could be handy as eng tire
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2026, 11:23:01 PMYip a push but the same lad pulling the jersey of him on the previous corner.
True. Defending teams are constantly pulling and dragging and wrapping arms around lads at corners.
Properly going for it bringing on both Nusa and Bobb.
Quote from: gallsman on July 11, 2026, 11:30:36 PMProperly going for it bringing on both Nusa and Bobb.
Both looking very lively so far
Push in the box for that chance but no VAR?
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 11, 2026, 11:23:29 PMThe luck hanging out of these bastards
They'll win it. Probably a last minute penalty
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 11, 2026, 11:40:16 PMPush in the box for that chance but no VAR?
Looked like a penalty to me.
Norway have the winning of this but they're fannying around too much
England are as boring as Spain.
Norway are gonna get caught with this playing it out from the back. Keeper nearly got it blocked into the net now the centre half got himself into a mess in the corner.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2026, 11:54:51 PMEngland are as boring as Spain.
As are Norway, both playing it out from the back very dangerously. I just dont get it
Bellingham wasn't touched was he?
Extra time which was fairly predictable. Penalty shootout will be no surprise either.
Kane def English, does f**k all but cry to the ref!
Bunch of divers !! Any tackle on English players results in a fall and hands waving!!
Bellingham's Achilles was clearly clipped/stood on. Really sore one. Not a dive at all and not a foul.
Wtf is Houghton on about looking at the defender's arm.
Apparently England's goal should not of stood as ball hit an external object.
Quote from: gallsman on July 12, 2026, 12:02:20 AMBellingham's Achilles was clearly clipped/stood on. Really sore one. Not a dive at all and not a foul.
Wtf is Houghton on about looking at the defender's arm.
The best thing to do is just ignore anything Ray says.
England back in front. Poor goalkeeping a lot of it in this World Cup.
Hey Jude....
f**k that , I'm away to bed
f**k sake
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 12, 2026, 12:04:08 AMApparently England's goal should not of stood as ball hit an external object.
Hit the cable the camera is attached to
Bollix of a keeper.
Oh well, get the Swiss/Argentinian flags out
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 12, 2026, 12:11:50 AMBollix of a keeper.
Oh well, get the Swiss/Argentinian flags out
More flags than a twelfth bonfire
Gkeeper should parried that to the left, slack.
Right Haaland, get your head out of your arse here
That just shows you why you should be direct, the keeper makes a complete meal of it from a nothing shot and it's a gift ffs
How many times has Haaland touched the ball?
I do have a very large Argentina flag from the time Germany folded them bck in 2014,
f**k off back to Spurs
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 12, 2026, 12:14:18 AMHow many times has Haaland touched the ball?
Been marked out of it. 3 of the England back 4 play with him week in week out.
Penalty to England unless VAR steps in.
Thats not a penalty. Buying it all day.
He dive
Haaland got a very poor work rate, its his biggest weakness.
No penalty.
Well done ref in fairness.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 12, 2026, 12:18:31 AMHaaland got a very poor work rate, its his biggest weakness.
Looks like a boy thats not fit/carrying an injury
Should he not be getting a card for diving.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 11, 2026, 11:27:48 PMI say the heat affect the Norway lads more than the English.
Them Spanish package holidays standing to the Brits.
Bit of a joke decision, definitely a penalty.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:31 AMShould he not be getting a card for diving.
Not when there's contact no.
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 12, 2026, 12:21:15 AMBit of a joke decision, definitely a penalty.
Ah never. Spence initiates the contact, clearly trying to buy a penalty
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 12, 2026, 12:23:41 AMQuote from: nrico2006 on July 12, 2026, 12:21:15 AMBit of a joke decision, definitely a penalty.
Ah never. Spence initiates the contact, clearly trying to buy a penalty
💯 stuck his leg back to try and buy the penalty
Haaland off
Haaland off, chance for Norway 11 v11 now!!
Roy Keane sounds more English than the rest of the men round him. Long time outta Cork.Big sub change there, gotta be injured.
Quote from: Nanderson on July 12, 2026, 12:28:34 AMHaaland off
Boost to England though they did mark him out of the game.
Klinsmann be proud of this diving.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:31 AMShould he not be getting a card for diving.
He didn't dive. There was contact. Just not a foul
Terrible ref giving a free to the Irish passport abuser there.
The lad engineered a free, if it wasn't able to be checked by VAR is would have been a foul anywhere on the pitch bar the penalty area..
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 12, 2026, 12:35:13 AMThe lad engineered a free, if it wasn't able to be checked by VAR is would have been a foul anywhere on the pitch bar the penalty area..
Thats where i dont get the idea that a foul has to be more of a foul to be a penalty rather than if it happens somewhere else on the field
Will someone tell those Norwegian boys that they need a goal in 5 mins there seems to be a lack of urgency
England a bunch of divers. Down half kilt, up a minute later.
In fairness I don't think Norway did enough though
Spence has been very good since he came on. Looks like man against boy when it's him vs Bobb.
England win 2-1. I'll be surprised if Argentina or Switzerland beat them next.
England not great to be honest, couldnt see them beat France but could edge the rest in a ugly contest.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 12, 2026, 12:45:56 AMIn fairness I don't think Norway did enough though
Norway were awful they had 25 mins after going a goal behind in ET and did absolutely f**k all
Norway were brutal and the fact it went to extra time flattered them. They played for 10mins.
Hopefully Henderson doesn't trip over his laces in celebrating
Quote from: Nanderson on July 12, 2026, 12:36:37 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 12, 2026, 12:35:13 AMThe lad engineered a free, if it wasn't able to be checked by VAR is would have been a foul anywhere on the pitch bar the penalty area..
Thats where i dont get the idea that a foul has to be more of a foul to be a penalty rather than if it happens somewhere else on the field
It would have wrongly been given as a foul as it's only with VAR that the ref saw he was buying it. Not that it matters now
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 12, 2026, 12:40:48 AMWill someone tell those Norwegian boys that they need a goal in 5 mins there seems to be a lack of urgency
They seemed more interested in joking with England players. Haaland hugging Bellingham when he thought it was a penalty was a bit much.
They gonna fall out on tv here lol
Keano knows what side his bread is buttered. Nothing more. Would not be surprised if hes earned more from TV than playing
Another name on the trophy type win for England including this moment that swung the contest back in their favour.
https://x.com/MelissaReddy_/status/2076070315449286902
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 11, 2026, 10:27:51 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 11, 2026, 09:53:14 PMCan see a goal fest 3-3
England on penalties
That bit you might get right.
Didnt consider the heat..would be a ding dong friendly in Wembley
Another game to watch, starting to melt after 4/5 Rugby games, 2 gaa and that game,
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 12, 2026, 12:58:12 AMKeano knows what side his bread is buttered. Nothing more. Would not be surprised if hes earned more from TV than playing
He hasn't said we this and we that..
So the equaliser shouldn't have stood..
https://www.reddit.com/r/soccer/comments/1utx6yf/englands_goal_was_a_result_of_the_ball_hitting/
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 01:11:46 AMSo the equaliser shouldn't have stood..
https://www.reddit.com/r/soccer/comments/1utx6yf/englands_goal_was_a_result_of_the_ball_hitting/
I've watched that 20 times and I still don't see where it hits a cable.
It's like a slow curl because the ball has spin. It's not a sudden change in direction due to bouncing off something. Plus the snickometer didn't show anything.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 12, 2026, 01:39:06 AMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 01:11:46 AMSo the equaliser shouldn't have stood..
https://www.reddit.com/r/soccer/comments/1utx6yf/englands_goal_was_a_result_of_the_ball_hitting/
I've watched that 20 times and I still don't see where it hits a cable.
It's like a slow curl because the ball has spin. It's not a sudden change in direction due to bouncing off something. Plus the snickometer didn't show anything.
Same. Even if it did, England reacted better to the situation.
So the English needed penalties to beat the Swiss at the Euros. Would the Argentinians bring them to penalties and tire them out for the French.
FIFAs magical sensor can detect contact with hair but a highly tensioned cable is beyond its capability?
Argentina go one nil up early followed by the Swiss dominating and all the life being sucked from the game.
Norse were never getting fair play according to the current laws of the game:
England bigger nation
Trump likes Harry Kane
Norway's support of the people of Gaza
Argentina win this according to the current laws of game.
That was coming. Argentina are shite.
Swiss equalise through Ndoye. Goalie Martinez should have done better.
Embolo sent off for simulation. That could be crucial. Well deserved. Will it change the game.
Right to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Alvarez scores a cracker and Lautaro Martinez scores to finish off the Swiss.
Now can Messi beat the English?
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 12, 2026, 12:49:28 AMNorway were brutal and the fact it went to extra time flattered them. They played for 10mins.
How did extra time flatter the Norwegians? England had barely a chance in normal time themselves.
Quote from: square_ball on July 12, 2026, 07:15:30 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 12, 2026, 12:49:28 AMNorway were brutal and the fact it went to extra time flattered them. They played for 10mins.
How did extra time flatter the Norwegians? England had barely a chance in normal time themselves.
Agreed. Some really weird takes on here at times
England have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England rode their luck and still standing. They're not great but neither are Argentina. It'll be shakey enough affair in the semifinal. I suppose if they get to the final and France or Spain give them a trimming it would be a great ending.
England v Argentina FFS it's like do I want my left or right leg cut off. Can't stand either. Hopefully France don't do anything silly in the final and close it out
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 12, 2026, 10:02:32 AMEngland v Argentina FFS it's like do I want my left or right leg cut off. Can't stand either. Hopefully France don't do anything silly in the final and close it out
The red tops will be summoning the spirit of '82 when our boys gave the Argies a bloody nose on Goose Green.
England and France have depth that the other teams don't. Those are standing to them and will continue to do so.
If you're Mainoo you'd be absolutely sick at Reece James coming on in midfield ahead of you. Wtf.
Quote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 12, 2026, 10:49:25 AMIf you're Mainoo you'd be absolutely sick at Reece James coming on in midfield ahead of you. Wtf.
Wtf wtf.
James has routinely played midfield the last couple of years, particularly under Marrsca.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
Yeah think if I was on a yellow I wouldn't be diving like that. Few Swiss be better reflecting on this rather than the usual blame the ref
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
I've yet to see a yellow for dives by the top teams. Swiss were on top until that moment. Ref was only required to remove Argentina's yellow. If Swiss is getting a yellow then every dive should get a yellow. Harry Kane would be on 3 or 4 yellows by now.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 12, 2026, 09:38:52 AMEngland have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England can never control the tempo of games - just not in their football dna. France look like a cut above the rest currently but Argentina England probably 50-50.
Gianni Infantino has said FIFA will examine expanding the World Cup by a further 16 nations to a 64-team tournament ahead of its next edition in 2030.
The competition was expanded to a 48-team format for the 2026 finals, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, an increase from the 32-nation version that ran from 1998 through to 2022.
The 2030 tournament will be spread across six nations and three continents: 1930 hosts Uruguay, 2022 winners Argentina and Paraguay — the base of the offices for CONMEBOL, South America's football governing body — are scheduled to host one match apiece at the start of the competition, with the remaining games (101 for a 48-team tournament) split between Morocco, Portugal and Spain.
https://x.com/TheAthleticFC/status/2076261775494840499#:~:text=Gianni%20Infantino%20has,Portugal%20and%20Spain
Argentinas two goals were top drawer. The header perfect but the 2nd was made better when you see the bobble it took in slow mo
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 12, 2026, 01:05:55 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 12, 2026, 09:38:52 AMEngland have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England can never control the tempo of games - just not in their football dna. France look like a cut above the rest currently but Argentina England probably 50-50.
They generally waltz through their qualifying groups though outside tournaments against the lesser European teams. And Norway are hardly European juggernauts. What should have been a bread and butter shift was a struggle and hinged on individual moments. A moment of brilliance by England and some sloppy moments by Norway. But on the whole Norway looked the much more structured team and technically composed, in stark contrast to the story the rankings tell.
Agree, Argentina is a coin toss. I really can't see them stay with France. But then again it wouldn't surprise me if Spain sucker punch les blues. Spain's big problem is fannying around and not scoring but they could catch fire for one big game. And if they do make the final and England do also, it really is a coin toss. Spain can control as much of the game as they want but it only takes a moment to beat a team who refuse to shoot.
Quote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 12:52:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
I've yet to see a yellow for dives by the top teams. Swiss were on top until that moment. Ref was only required to remove Argentina's yellow. If Swiss is getting a yellow then every dive should get a yellow. Harry Kane would be on 3 or 4 yellows by now.
This is a ridiculous take. You want two (or more) wrongs to make a right. It was a clear dive that was correctly punished. Whether Kane has been getting away with it is irrelevant. People spend half their lives complaining about diving and now that maybe, just maybe, referees have the power to do something about it they're still complaining. To do that while on a yellow card was f**king moronic from Embolo.
Álvarez scoring could be huge for Argentina. Another big star who has been struggling for fitness. He was brilliant for Qatar and has been sensational for Atléti.
48 teams has made this world cup a lesser competition. 60 would be a disaster.
Quote from: gallsman on July 12, 2026, 02:36:18 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 12:52:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
I've yet to see a yellow for dives by the top teams. Swiss were on top until that moment. Ref was only required to remove Argentina's yellow. If Swiss is getting a yellow then every dive should get a yellow. Harry Kane would be on 3 or 4 yellows by now.
This is a ridiculous take. You want two (or more) wrongs to make a right. It was a clear dive that was correctly punished. Whether Kane has been getting away with it is irrelevant. People spend half their lives complaining about diving and now that maybe, just maybe, referees have the power to do something about it they're still complaining. To do that while on a yellow card was f**king moronic from Embolo.
Álvarez scoring could be huge for Argentina. Another big star who has been struggling for fitness. He was brilliant for Qatar and has been sensational for Atléti.
I absolutely have no issue with referees punishing it.
Whet i have an issue is they don't do it to the favoured teams/players. Therefore that was harsh and biased against tbe swiss. When Kane, Mbappe, Messi, Ronaldo get sent off, then fair play will start happening. This World Cup has been biased the minute Ronaldo got his suspension reduced after dinner with Trump abd Infantino. No way did they want Argentina going out to Swiss (or worse again Egypt) and until that red it was looking like it.
Example
https://x.com/the_shep_/status/2072371437088788938?s=46
Bellingham,Kane will exploit that Argentina defence. Still on course for the most interesting final, France v England.
Ah lads Harry Kane goes down most times with hardly any contact, should be on multi yellows for it by now.
QuoteQuoteQuoteEngland have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England can never control the tempo of games - just not in their football dna. France look like a cut above the rest currently but Argentina England probably 50-50.
They generally waltz through their qualifying groups though outside tournaments against the lesser European teams. And Norway are hardly European juggernauts. What should have been a bread and butter shift was a struggle and hinged on individual moments. A moment of brilliance by England and some sloppy moments by Norway. But on the whole Norway looked the much more structured team and technically composed, in stark contrast to the story the rankings tell.
Agree, Argentina is a coin toss. I really can't see them stay with France. But then again it wouldn't surprise me if Spain sucker punch les blues. Spain's big problem is fannying around and not scoring but they could catch fire for one big game. And if they do make the final and England do also, it really is a coin toss. Spain can control as much of the game as they want but it only takes a moment to beat a team who refuse to shoot.
That's exactly what I thought before England's second goal. That Norway aren't prepared to take on a shot. A second later , England did... and well, you know. Too much fannying about. Reminded me of Armagh v Kerry
Spain are the same. Too much fannying about. I'm hoping a bit of Messi magic will beat England. England were poor last night. Norway should have won it easy if they'd have kicked the f**kin ball
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 12, 2026, 03:29:06 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteEngland have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England can never control the tempo of games - just not in their football dna. France look like a cut above the rest currently but Argentina England probably 50-50.
They generally waltz through their qualifying groups though outside tournaments against the lesser European teams. And Norway are hardly European juggernauts. What should have been a bread and butter shift was a struggle and hinged on individual moments. A moment of brilliance by England and some sloppy moments by Norway. But on the whole Norway looked the much more structured team and technically composed, in stark contrast to the story the rankings tell.
Agree, Argentina is a coin toss. I really can't see them stay with France. But then again it wouldn't surprise me if Spain sucker punch les blues. Spain's big problem is fannying around and not scoring but they could catch fire for one big game. And if they do make the final and England do also, it really is a coin toss. Spain can control as much of the game as they want but it only takes a moment to beat a team who refuse to shoot.
That's exactly what I thought before England's second goal. That Norway aren't prepared to take on a shot. A second later , England did... and well, you know. Too much fannying about. Reminded me of Armagh v Kerry
Spain are the same. Too much fannying about. I'm hoping a bit of Messi magic will beat England. England were poor last night. Norway should have won it easy if they'd have kicked the f**kin ball
For that reason alone England deserved it more because, despite their faults, at least when they get a gap they are aggressive. Norway got some great over loads last night but flunked them. Poor final decision making by the ball carrier maybe, but Haaland looked so disinterested and static. That would be the most disappointing thing if you were a Norwegian fan. The team actually set up the stage beautifully for him.
Sorloth has a lot to answer for
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 12, 2026, 03:54:57 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 12, 2026, 03:29:06 PMQuoteQuoteQuoteEngland have dangerous players but was surprised how badly they struggle to control tempo of game and poor in the centre. Norway played them off the park at times but ultimately very sloppy when it really counted. Haaland looked like he had the shits for the last week.
England can never control the tempo of games - just not in their football dna. France look like a cut above the rest currently but Argentina England probably 50-50.
They generally waltz through their qualifying groups though outside tournaments against the lesser European teams. And Norway are hardly European juggernauts. What should have been a bread and butter shift was a struggle and hinged on individual moments. A moment of brilliance by England and some sloppy moments by Norway. But on the whole Norway looked the much more structured team and technically composed, in stark contrast to the story the rankings tell.
Agree, Argentina is a coin toss. I really can't see them stay with France. But then again it wouldn't surprise me if Spain sucker punch les blues. Spain's big problem is fannying around and not scoring but they could catch fire for one big game. And if they do make the final and England do also, it really is a coin toss. Spain can control as much of the game as they want but it only takes a moment to beat a team who refuse to shoot.
That's exactly what I thought before England's second goal. That Norway aren't prepared to take on a shot. A second later , England did... and well, you know. Too much fannying about. Reminded me of Armagh v Kerry
Spain are the same. Too much fannying about. I'm hoping a bit of Messi magic will beat England. England were poor last night. Norway should have won it easy if they'd have kicked the f**kin ball
For that reason alone England deserved it more because, despite their faults, at least when they get a gap they are aggressive. Norway got some great over loads last night but flunked them. Poor final decision making by the ball carrier maybe, but Haaland looked so disinterested and static. That would be the most disappointing thing if you were a Norwegian fan. The team actually set up the stage beautifully for him.
He clearly was ill/injured. Barely moved all day.
Already lining up a 64 team tournament
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj9gm31jwg8o
It's all about the dough for these corrupt F**kers
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 12, 2026, 10:54:26 PMAlready lining up a 64 team tournament
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj9gm31jwg8o
It's all about the dough for these corrupt F**kers
I've enjoyed the expanded tournament and the extra games. But in the end the Semi Finalists are the World and European Champions and the World and European Runners up. The QF was made up of 6 UEFA Teams and the Round of 16 had one third place team in it.
In short, as things stand, the expanded tournament looks like it is permitting token participation before the Round of 16 happens.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 12, 2026, 10:54:26 PMAlready lining up a 64 team tournament
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj9gm31jwg8o
It's all about the dough for these corrupt F**kers
Wanting to make more money is not corruption.
But hey at least Ireland might actually make it now.
Quote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 12:52:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
I've yet to see a yellow for dives by the top teams. Swiss were on top until that moment. Ref was only required to remove Argentina's yellow. If Swiss is getting a yellow then every dive should get a yellow. Harry Kane would be on 3 or 4 yellows by now.
Damned if they pull it up, damned if they don't.
It was a blatant and extreme dive that was correctly pulled. Just because other refs missed dives, and none have missed this obvious a one, this should have been waved through?
Quote from: JimStynes on July 11, 2026, 02:14:51 PMIt's been a shite enough World Cup overall
Pep ball has eaten the world, out of five gazillion teams there are about 3 players who can dribble a ball.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 13, 2026, 11:42:47 AMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 12:52:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 12, 2026, 12:19:19 PMQuote from: weareros on July 12, 2026, 03:35:12 AMRight to reverse yellow. But harsh red to Swiss. VAR wants an Argentina-Eng semi.
Harsh how?
I've yet to see a yellow for dives by the top teams. Swiss were on top until that moment. Ref was only required to remove Argentina's yellow. If Swiss is getting a yellow then every dive should get a yellow. Harry Kane would be on 3 or 4 yellows by now.
Damned if they pull it up, damned if they don't.
It was a blatant and extreme dive that was correctly pulled. Just because other refs missed dives, and none have missed this obvious a one, this should have been waved through?
Unfortunately diving can be a bit grey as any contact at all can take someone down and no one is ever going to know really.
That Swiss fella on sat night had clearly no contact so the yellow was 100% Should up that shite to a straight red to try and stamp it out. We'll done referee
(https://i.ibb.co/zHJJYJVn/FB-IMG-1783911980907.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JFQQ4QjB)
ITV being a bit dismissive of Spain here??
Didn't realise Bruce Buffer was doing team introductions ;D
Matterface dixon AND mccoist?!
*Cuts ears off*
That was an atrocious tackle from Olise.
Francisco Franco nails the peno!
Idiotic from Digne.. The theatrics of the team conceding the penalty has annoyed me a lot this Tournament
That'll not help Lamine's dodgy hamstring.
Live I thought surely he can't have given away a penalty and then on the replay couldn't believe how badly he just booted him! ;D
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 14, 2026, 08:22:57 PMIdiotic from Digne.. The theatrics of the team conceding the penalty has annoyed me a lot this Tournament
It was very like what they were (justifiably) up in arms over Paraguay's behaviour against them.
Vieiras over confidence being shown up by the Spanish here.
Probably what the game needed we will see what French are made of now.
Yeah France have a bit more about them so I think this is good for the game.
Quote from: Capt Pat on July 14, 2026, 08:25:34 PMVieiras over confidence being shown up by the Spanish here.
They were all chatting shit on ITV, France may still win but I thought it very poor punditry.
Sorry what is going on with VAR.. It's not a free but you can't re-referee. Officiating been bizarre this WC
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 14, 2026, 08:44:57 PMSorry what is going on with VAR.. It's not a free but you can't re-referee. Officiating been bizarre this WC
Perfect example of why it should be avoided in GAA
That was always the danger for this French team. Spain to control tempo and disrupt French rhythm. See what French are made of now. That's a very well disciplined Spanish outfit.
Association football needs to enforce a rule that if you signal a head injury - ie hold your head after a challenge - that you get a 2 minute break from the game, with checkup from medics optional.
When 2 snide teams meet each other, it's unwatchable for long periods
Quote from: gallsman on July 14, 2026, 08:23:38 PMThat'll not help Lamine's dodgy hamstring.
Live I thought surely he can't have given away a penalty and then on the replay couldn't believe how badly he just booted him! ;D
Thought it was a ridiculous dive when viewed live. Hard not to give a pen when booted by a defender.
Rodri is a serious operator. Still think France may win though hope I am wrong.
France out thank God. Spanish touch and control is incredible
Didn't expect this at all from Spain, fair play. Superb team goal.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 14, 2026, 09:09:35 PMRodri is a serious operator. Still think France may win though hope I am wrong.
Rodri is like a man mountain and closes off all the space and channels
Cheese eating surrender monkeys.
Rodri and Ruiz been excellent France been so poor given the embarrassment of riches at top end of pitch have created next to nothing.
Spain to need to keep playing. Some moments of danger when they started rltaking their foot off the gas.
France very poor. I took them over Spain to beat England if it came to the crunch.
France havenNt turned up, Spain look very good.
Surely a kick in the French yet or will they go out with a whimper?
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 14, 2026, 09:40:56 PMFrance very poor. I took them over Spain to beat England if it came to the crunch.
Me too. Have to hope between the Argies and the Spaniards they get the job done.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 14, 2026, 09:40:56 PMFrance very poor. I took them over Spain to beat England if it came to the crunch.
Spain a better all round team so maybe better that France don't go through. Tchouaméni and Rabiot very poor, as well as Digne. Let's hope the Argies do the business tomorrow.
That was the moment Doue. Awful attempt
If England win their midfield will be bossed by Spain. England's midfield not near this level.
Bloody sniper out there
No fight in that French team at all.
Spain have been good. Fancied the French to win but Spain have made them look ordinary.
Spain into the final having conceded just one goal in this World Cup, not the most entertaining team to watch or have the star quality they had in 2010 but they are such well organised unit and France with a good forward line ran out ideas long before the final whistle tonight.
For 75/80 minutes you'd be hard pushed to find a better midfield performance since Barca golden days.
Cucurella fantastic on a yellow card too.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 14, 2026, 10:01:36 PMFor 75/80 minutes you'd be hard pushed to find a better midfield performance since Barca golden days.
Cucurella fantastic on a yellow card too.
Brilliant. Poked one away from Mbappe as he went to pull the trigger. Hopefully they can repeat in the final.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 14, 2026, 10:01:36 PMFor 75/80 minutes you'd be hard pushed to find a better midfield performance since Barca golden days.
Cucurella fantastic on a yellow card too.
That was an epic performance at just the right time. Watched it in a fan park in Spain and the atmosphere was class.
Loved that performance by the Spaniards.
Slow and steady bates the flashy hare.
That's what I say to herself.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 14, 2026, 09:42:19 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 14, 2026, 09:40:56 PMFrance very poor. I took them over Spain to beat England if it came to the crunch.
Me too. Have to hope between the Argies and the Spaniards they get the job done.
Let's hope the Spanish don't need to
Trump hates Spain. Infantino will be getting a call that either team of his favourite heads of state Javier Meilei or King Charles is the winner. It would be wonderful if the country he wants to ban all trade with, Spain, win. Make no mistake. They don't want this.
Quote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 12:24:44 AMTrump hates Spain. Infantino will be getting a call that either team of his favourite heads of state Javier Meilei or King Charles is the winner. It would be wonderful if the country he wants to ban all trade with, Spain, win. Make no mistake. They don't want this.
Yeah we may hope Argentina do the job. Spain will be screwed in the final some way.
Hopefully they're good enough that it won't matter though.
Huge opportunity for England now with the favourites out.
With the youth setup they have created and the players coming through it's only a matter of time before they win a major tournament anyway. Up front they are by far the best team left.
Defence would be the only worry and pickford is overdue a clanger.
Rice v Messi should be an intriguing watch tonight.
Must be some sort of wind up but I'll bite anyway.
England have the best attack between the 3 remaining teams? None of them have been that good tbh.
Yep the defence is poor in comparison to Spain. Argentina defence is just ok
Messi v Rice, lol. Many have tried and I'm sure that includes much better players than Deckan Rice but granted Messi is getting on a bit.
I think sone people get taken in by the press. If Spain produce what they produced last night, neither of tonight's teams will get anywhere near them
Have to feel a little for France. Second WC in succession where they've been the best team but won't win it.
Quote from: mouview on July 15, 2026, 10:29:22 AMHave to feel a little for France. Second WC in succession where they've been the best team but won't win it.
They were not the best team, as their elimination from both competitions demonstrates.
Utd won the treble in 99 and weren't the best team in either of the 3 competitions, sport has a funny way of dealing with the best at times
Quote from: An Watcher on July 15, 2026, 10:25:54 AMMust be some sort of wind up but I'll bite anyway.
England have the best attack between the 3 remaining teams? None of them have been that good tbh.
Yep the defence is poor in comparison to Spain. Argentina defence is just ok
Messi v Rice, lol. Many have tried and I'm sure that includes much better players than Deckan Rice but granted Messi is getting on a bit.
I think sone people get taken in by the press. If Spain produce what they produced last night, neither of tonight's teams will get anywhere near them
In fairness Kane and Bellingham when they're on it are fantastic. Outside of that England haven't much.
Hopefully Spain have another performance like last night in them for the final.
Can't believe how poor France were, total lack of ideas. Tonight could go either way, Argentina plenty of doggedness in them and obviously Messi capable of magic at any moment. England worryingly lucky though.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2026, 10:42:31 AMQuote from: mouview on July 15, 2026, 10:29:22 AMHave to feel a little for France. Second WC in succession where they've been the best team but won't win it.
They were not the best team, as their elimination from both competitions demonstrates.
They played the best football all the way through til last evening. It was their misfortune to reserve their worst performance for a knockout game. As was said, sport is nuanced and not always the best win out in the end.
Attack wins you games, defence wins you titles. Spain will be another example of that should they go on to win the World Cup final.
Wasn't surprised by the result last night, anyone can play football when they're allowed. Spain were always going to control their fair share of the game but was surprised how little the French offered in return. Looked to individual moments throughout and at no stage tried to get a passing rhythm or any period of sustained control or possession. Not to say they couldn't have got something from the game but it was low percentage stuff.
England remind me of the French a little bit although haven't looked as good at any stage. Struggle in the middle but they have plenty of attacking talent out wide and an embarrassment of riches sitting at home. They do have an old school world class no 9 though if they ever decide to abandon the inverted wing stuff. So they're in with a very decent chance from here if they can keep their luck going.
Both teams will have chances tonight. England struggled badly against Norway in the middle, illness in the squad was the excuse used, but you'd have to wonder on the German's selection sometimes. Rice weak as dishwater, Henderson broken arm, Foden and Palmer sitting at home and he's moving fullbacks around rather than play Mainoo. Was there genuine reasons for England's very poor show v Norway or are there fatal flaws in how he sets up or they are capable of playing. Tonight will be interesting to see how they attempt to impose themselves on the Argentinians. He's under a bit of pressure to be fair. Won't take much for the press or social media to turn on him and the nazi agent b*****d jibes to start.
First goal crucial in these tussles with little separating teams. I feel like Captain Obvious now
I had my doubts about Spain up to now. They bored the arse of me (as did France at times) , but they looked very good last night. So, if those feckers do go through tonight, hopefully Spain will produce a similar performance.
England were really. poor v Norway. Can't really say anyone stood up . You'd hope their unbelievable luck will run out tonight.
Top 3 for possession/passes in the WC are Spains two centre halves and Rodri think that says plenty. If Spain go one up you're in trouble.
A few seem to have forgotten, were Spain not comfortable enough in the euro final against England or have I misremembered?
Anyways, I still say not to panic till I say so
I never quite believe England are as hated as much as people like to let on, there's a lot of secret supporters out there. I'll not get too excited 2nite either way. I do think they'll win too.
Quote from: bennydorano on July 15, 2026, 01:28:34 PMI never quite believe England are as hated as much as people like to let on, there's a lot of secret supporters out there. I'll not get too excited 2nite either way. I do think they'll win too.
A pantomime villain, fun to boo for some, not the same show if they aren't there.
Any of the pundits I have saw have all tipped England, slightly disrespectful to Argentina who are defending champions and have the experience of winning the competition 4 years ago. There will be a pressure for England knowing the expectation at home and the fact they haven't been to a final since 1966.
Argentina have a few players that will be up for the fight, like of Romero and Martinez will not need much motivation seeing some of the comments from the English media about them.
The game has potential to be excellent as there are questions about both at the back.
Quote from: BigGreenField on July 15, 2026, 01:34:43 PMQuote from: bennydorano on July 15, 2026, 01:28:34 PMI never quite believe England are as hated as much as people like to let on, there's a lot of secret supporters out there. I'll not get too excited 2nite either way. I do think they'll win too.
A pantomime villain, fun to boo for some, not the same show if they aren't there.
I'd also think there are people walking around Ireland today in a heap of anxiety about England winning tonight. It's like a real primal fear and they are already spiralling about Sunday. English celebrations, dancing at crossroads, a four year pub session, every lamppost from Lands End to John O'Grotes covered in English pageantry, a homecoming attended by all 60 million inhabitants, Churchill, Thatcher and Cromwell reanimated to stand on a plinth with Boris Johnson and welcome the team back. Every English person will mention it every five seconds in conversation, and will deflect conversations towards it. Legends will be made and stories will be told for years to come.
Of course, if England do win, there will be over half the population who won't switch on their television to watch the match. There will be phone-ins with people complaining about blocked streets and transport delays. Business will push back against a "day off". And, those who do support the team, will go back to work on Monday with banging hangovers, work deadlines, family commitments etc, and the world will carry on.
I actually feel a set of Irish football fans would be better served by not watching the match (or the final if England get there). England's success is not some sort of highlight of our failure. In reality, it's little to do with us.
It would not change a single thing in my life whether they win or lose, I'm ref'ing tonight won't see all of it and she'll probably have Love Island on ;)
It must be some buzz for England fans today no matter about it. Liverpool fans might even jump on the bandwagon.
It's a bit of craic to see them fail. Scots love to see them fail too. They'll be quick enough to drag up old history themselves if they get one over the Argies tonight so all's fair and all that.
Don't really mind if they win it this time. Have always the throw back that it took a German to do what an Englishman couldn't.
Air conditioned stadium should favour England. Horrific looking but the camera aperture like roof mechanism is incredible. Stadiums the real star of this WC
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=anUhGgUaar4
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 15, 2026, 12:52:18 PMTop 3 for possession/passes in the WC are Spains two centre halves and Rodri think that says plenty. If Spain go one up you're in trouble.
A few seem to have forgotten, were Spain not comfortable enough in the euro final against England or have I misremembered?
Anyways, I still say not to panic till I say so
Spain were very comfortable. When Rodri went off at half-time, the assumption was that it would open up a bit for England, but Zubamendi came on in his place and ran the game. First time I'd ever seen him play, and right before Liverpool's bid became public.
It was comfortable in so far as they were in control of the game but still took a goal in the 86th minute to win it.
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 02:54:01 PMIt was comfortable in so far as they were in control of the game but still took a goal in the 86th minute to win it.
True. They left it very late
Spain , even the 2010 version, might have passed teams to death , but they rarely trounced teams, which is worrying if them feckers get there
Fairs. I had it down as a 2 0 then palmer scored late to make a game of it lol. Old mind playing tricks
Anyways they are kings of possession if eng/arg score first it could be a great game if Spain score first.....
But back to tonight 😄
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 02:56:25 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 02:54:01 PMIt was comfortable in so far as they were in control of the game but still took a goal in the 86th minute to win it.
True. They left it very late
Spain , even the 2010 version, might have passed teams to death , but they rarely trounced teams, which is worrying if them feckers get there
1st world problems!
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 15, 2026, 02:59:32 PMFairs. I had it down as a 2 0 then palmer scored late to make a game of it lol. Old mind playing tricks
Anyways they are kings of possession if eng/arg score first it could be a great game if Spain score first.....
But back to tonight 😄
Palmer's equalizer was totally against the run of play in that game. Spain were much the better team on the night and got the winner fairly quickly.
If Spain win 1-0 then the only team really challenge them was Cape Verde
Quote from: J70 on July 15, 2026, 04:50:00 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 15, 2026, 02:59:32 PMFairs. I had it down as a 2 0 then palmer scored late to make a game of it lol. Old mind playing tricks
Anyways they are kings of possession if eng/arg score first it could be a great game if Spain score first.....
But back to tonight 😄
Palmer's equalizer was totally against the run of play in that game. Spain were much the better team on the night and got the winner fairly quickly.
Palmer or Foden won't be there to bail them out. I think it was a mistake by Tuchel not to bring them.
I'd probably tip my hat towards England.. Both defences are shaky, with Roger's, Bellingham and Gordon they have runners to go beyond Kane.
Of course that could all be wrong if the little magician has one last spell off magic left in him.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 07:18:44 PMI'd probably tip my hat towards England.. Both defences are shaky, with Roger's, Bellingham and Gordon they have runners to go beyond Kane.
Of course that could all be wrong if the little magician has one last spell off magic left in him.
Lets hope so. Nervy one this.
England team doesn't look balanced. Rodgers, Kane and Bellingham willbe playing on top of each other. Gordon lost on the wing. 1 nil to Argentina.
c***ts lying down already...
A tasty first 3 minutes!
5 mins and as an Arsenal fan and watched him all season. Rice doesn't look at it all
Gordon and Anderson two good enough players but I could think of better ways to blow £200m fecking hell.
Is this RTE commentary BBC in disguise?
Might be good time to look at yellow/reds odds on the betting sites
This ref is gonna be busy.
Anderson should have been booked there.
Argentina seem to have zero interest in playing football.
Nah u couldnt listen to Shearer, f**king p***k!!
Slow start from Argies. England really need to nip one early
A bit cagey so far.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2026, 08:12:49 PMNah u couldnt listen to Shearer, f**king p***k!!
Straight to mute for me
English ****
Even Vinnie Jones would struggle to get booked here
The game is unwatchable at the minute, awful stuff
Plenty of niggle from the Argies so far, leaving plenty in but getting the ball most of the time. Ref letting it go mostly, enjoyable enough.
Definitely a semi finals are for winning match. Corner for Argentina how exciting.
Simeone romero martinez fernandez. If there isn't a red in this I'll be amazed
11 fouls and no shot in 24 minutes.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 08:12:47 PMArgentina seem to have zero interest in playing football.
I would say they are being physical as England don't seem to like the physical battle as much and ref letting it go.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 15, 2026, 08:26:58 PMSimeone romero martinez fernandez. If there isn't a red in this I'll be amazed
The favourite is surely someone like Bellingham taking the bait ffs
Argentina are a bunch of w@nkers ;D
Jesus, the behaviour of Argies would make you want England to win.
How Simeone hasn't been booked I don't know. 5/6 fouls now
I don't know about anyone else but I'm loving this.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 08:38:06 PMJesus, the behaviour of Argies would make you want England to win.
How Simeone hasn't been booked I don't know. 5/6 fouls now
Saved me typing this lol
Think simeone needs to shoot someone then he might get a yellow
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 08:35:32 PMArgentina are a bunch of w@nkers ;D
Love it, it's great 👍
Hit them c***ts hard.
This is proper soccer. Absolutely fantastic from Arg. BBC commentators will need A&E soon
Quote from: laoislad on July 15, 2026, 08:40:48 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 08:35:32 PMArgentina are a bunch of w@nkers ;D
Love it, it's great 👍
Hit them c***ts hard.
Agreed. Absolutely brilliant :D.
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 08:38:39 PMI don't know about anyone else but I'm loving this.
Brilliant.
In fairness mostly getting the ball and leaving abit in, typical soft English c***ts don't like it
Quote from: Pub Bore on July 15, 2026, 08:42:27 PMThis is proper soccer. Absolutely fantastic from Arg. BBC commentators will need A&E soon
RTE not much better...
Football terrorism levels of sh1thousery here from Argentina.
Might be wankers but they our wankers the night. Said it a few nites ago, Harry Kane a crying bollix, and Messi crying anyway here too.
The 2nd half might be improvement as both Goalkeepers are totally underworked.
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 08:38:39 PMI don't know about anyone else but I'm loving this.
I fell asleep after about 20 minutes did I miss any decent action?
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2026, 08:49:53 PMMight be wankers but they our wankers the night. Said it a few nites ago, Harry Kane a crying bollix, and Messi crying anyway here too.
Would hardly know either been on!
Foul,foul, foul, another foul and another one and etc
Poor game.You can't really support England but Argentina are horrible. Simeone not getting a yellow is ridiculous.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 08:49:02 PMFootball terrorism levels of sh1thousery here from Argentina.
It's great isn't it 💪
Great to see Elliot and Anderson batter Messi.
Reminds me of liverpool 2019, show him zero respect.
Shearer showing us all why he's paid so much tonight :o
Just go straight to penalties.
Spain will make mince meat of either team in the final.
Can't see it finishing with 22 players. Young Simeone is way too fired up. Should be first to get subbed.
England look better down the wings, think they'll win.
See Liverpool tweet wishing Argentina luck.
BBC website has only 19 fouls in that half seemed more like 91.
XG of 0.05 to 0.03 for anyone who likes that don't think we need a super computer to tell us no one looks like scoring l.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 08:56:54 PMGreat to see Elliot and Anderson batter Messi.
Reminds me of liverpool 2019, show him zero respect.
hmmm
Finally a shot on target
Lol romero
1-0 to England
Great goal.. Now we can finally have a f**king game of football
The deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
Cracking goal. Kane going deep started it.
Oh f**k
That's as good as a goal from Spence.
Good cross and finish. Hopeless defending by Argentina who need to use a plan B now.
Can we panic yet?
England will play themselves into trouble trying to play out from the back under huge pressure.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 09:20:49 PMCan we panic yet?
Embrace it lad!
(https://i.ibb.co/Cs24n76m/giphy.gif)
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:17:01 PMThe deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
England had done very little up to that point either.
Think Argentina will get a penalty shortly.
Commentators not knowing that Gonzalez is a winger is poor. Granted Shearer doesn't know his arse from his elbow but still
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 09:20:49 PMCan we panic yet?
Yes and can't help but think of all those who said at the start of the tournament that England were rubbish and had no chance, even though it was pointed out that they were narrowly beaten in the last 2 Euro Finals and had a better manager now.
I still think it will go to ET. Argentina look very sharp all of a sudden.
Dont panic still one more game to go.
Argies need to take their points. England need an insurance goal
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 09:23:31 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:17:01 PMThe deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
England had done very little up to that point either.
But a little bit more. Argentina hardly tried to play for 55 minutes. There were also playing very careless stuff up to and including the build up to the goal.
What you say , jibbajabba?
Call it men.
I think 2-1 England AET.
Messi penalty coming soon.
Argentina have finally decided to play football.
Messi is a magician. England can't withstand this for 25 odd minutes. Need to attack.
2-1 Argentina...
Argentina was 2-0 behind on 78 minutes against Egypt. What have they got in them for the final 20 minutes tonight?
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:31:39 PMCall it men.
I think 2-1 England AET.
Messi penalty coming soon.
Few more scares for England but think they'll hold on here.
Konsa coming on for Gordon could be asking for trouble though.
Ohh.. 5-2-2-1 from Tuchel. If that was Southgate he'd be hammered
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:17:01 PMThe deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
How do they deserve it exactly?
Argentina no out and out striker and its killing them. England got so far because alot of countries with great tradition are currently all shit at the same time. England have had way better teams in the past, but maybe a better manager at present
Simeone going off a big boost for Argentina. He's very poor.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 09:30:27 PMWhat you say , jibbajabba?
🤣🤣
You can just a tiny bit lol
Extra time in this one be class
Would still be v confident of Spain in final
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 09:33:45 PMOhh.. 5-2-2-1 from Tuchel. If that was Southgate he'd be hammered
Tbf Southgate would have played that the whole way through the tournament. Tuchel seems to try to adapt his formation based on the opposition
Noooo!!
Two big chances wasted by Argentina.
Why are England suddenly playing at the edge of their own box. They look like Ireland all of a sudden ;D
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 15, 2026, 09:34:53 PMSimeone going off a big boost for Argentina. He's very poor.
Seemed to be on just to act the dickhead. He's an awful player.
Quote from: oakleafgael on July 15, 2026, 09:34:28 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:17:01 PMThe deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
How do they deserve it exactly?
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 15, 2026, 09:37:38 PMQuote from: oakleafgael on July 15, 2026, 09:34:28 PMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 15, 2026, 09:17:01 PMThe deserve it. Argentina are brutal.
How do they deserve it exactly?
Ignore that tube
Wooooooooo
Starting to feel jinxed here...
Dumb to sit back...pickfords luck will run out
Quote from: Nanderson on July 15, 2026, 09:35:33 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 09:33:45 PMOhh.. 5-2-2-1 from Tuchel. If that was Southgate he'd be hammered
Tbf Southgate would have played that the whole way through the tournament. Tuchel seems to try to adapt his formation based on the opposition
True - Feel he should have put on some pace for the counter tbh. But Tuchel a UCL winning manager and I'm coaching fundamentals lol.
They're holding on here a bit at the moment since the switch.
Why do team wait to they behind to start playing tball.
1-1 it was coming.
Get f**king in there!!!
GET THE f**k IN!!!
What a hit son
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 09:40:22 PMQuote from: Nanderson on July 15, 2026, 09:35:33 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 09:33:45 PMOhh.. 5-2-2-1 from Tuchel. If that was Southgate he'd be hammered
Tbf Southgate would have played that the whole way through the tournament. Tuchel seems to try to adapt his formation based on the opposition
True - Feel he should have put on some pace for the counter tbh. But Tuchel a UCL winning manager and I'm coaching fundamentals lol.
They're holding on here a bit at the moment since the switch.
Tuchel should switch to the Fundementals
Thank god for that
Three more Empanadas for me now.
I don't understand the sitting back shit. As an Irish fan we all know it usually doesn't end well. England were doing ok so why the change after the goal.
Could Pickford do better there? Seemed to be very close to near post.
We mentioned Southgate earlier, its almost been a classic Southgate f**k up
Nah. It was a good goal!
6 defenders on the England team now.
How do they get a winner?
Penalties only option.
England players have went down some amount of times in the 2nd half.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 15, 2026, 09:39:45 PMDumb to sit back...pickfords luck will run out
There ya go. Took off Gordon, went negative and thats what happens
Stones down from heading the ball? He's at it.
Argentina lead 2-1.
Orgasmic
England were cowards.
There is a god, Ole Diego looking down on that one.
Yeh - Called that happening when he went to 5 at the back (hence I mentioned Southgate would have been hammered)
Hopefully Spain win the final
That's what you get for trying to park the bus against the world champions.
You can't sit back like that and expect to win against players of that quality.
England need a few forwards on now and lump it in.
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 09:53:27 PMEngland were cowards.
100%
10 men behind the ball, 30 yards from goal.
Defending a 1 goal lead for almost 30 minutes was suicide
Someone hang an effigy of tuchel from a lamppost
Either way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
Quality from argies when it was needed.
England players and management crapped the bed.
Neat and tidy doesn't cut it at the highest level.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 15, 2026, 09:55:29 PMDefending a 1 goal lead for almost 30 minutes was suicide
This. Tuchel did so well t the world cup and then when it mattered morphed into southgate
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Messi ran the game.
Argentina 2-1 winners. The wait goes on for England to reach World Cup final never mind winning it. Some difference in the mindset of both managements after 1-0.
Yes a very ordinary team with no real striker, but like Spain against France, they can turn up on the day, with self believe as defending champs. As William Mummy said, "Deserve got nothing to do with it"
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 15, 2026, 09:55:25 PMQuote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 09:53:27 PMEngland were cowards.
100%
10 men behind the ball, 30 yards from goal.
Within two mins of going one up Kane's making a clearance in own box. Sir Gareth would took some flak with how England played after going one up.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 15, 2026, 10:03:02 PMYes a very ordinary team with no real striker, but like Spain against France, they can turn up on the day, with self believe as defending champs. As William Mummy said, "Deserve got nothing to do with it"
England didn't have a striker either.
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:00:30 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Were they? England sat back unbelievably deep for some bizarre reason and invited Argentina to attack in waves. Pathetic from Tuchel
A few of those Argentina players are hard to like.
Kane has never counted in the big games.
A deserved win for Argentina.
Toul yis not to panic 😎😜
England. Always competitive. Never easy beat. But time and time again first good team they play they'll be beat. It will be close. It will be heroic. But they'll be beat
Here endeth the lesson
Messi stood up when they needed him with 2 assists.
Makes Kenny Cunningham look even more daft with his comments on RTE
Thank Christ!
Messi was brilliant in those last 20 minutes. And all England's defenders and Lautauro is completely unmarked a couple of yards out for the easiest goal he'll ever score.
Not sure what the weekend is going to be like, but it's a good job this game wasn't here in NYC today. Heat index of 104 F and wildfire smoke from Canada combining to make the air barely breathable.
That was an onslaught from Argentina in the second half. England scored from a rare attack. 2 great sides in the final.
Rooney bang on. Went 1-0 up and didn't know what to do.
Brilliant from Argentina, battered the shite out of them in the first half and ran rings around them in the second half.
A bad night for all the England fans on here .
Gary Neville, Troy Deeney, Joe Cole and John Terry to name a few look a bit silly now.
The pre match comments were disrespectful for a team that has won nothing and continually fail in big tournaments.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 10:05:28 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:00:30 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Were they? England sat back unbelievably deep for some bizarre reason and invited Argentina to attack in waves. Pathetic from Tuchel
Seen plenty of teams sit back and teams haven't been able to create anything. Argentina had about 5 or 6 chances. If they are incredibly ordinary I'm not sure what it says about the other 46 teams in the tournament.
QuoteToul yis not to panic 😎😜
England. Always competitive. Never easy beat. But time and time again first good team they play they'll be beat. It will be close. It will be heroic. But they'll be beat
Here endeth the lesson
In jibbajabba we trust :D
Felt sorry for English players and then saw Declan Rice - yeooo get it up ye you snake ;D
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:07:54 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 10:05:28 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:00:30 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Were they? England sat back unbelievably deep for some bizarre reason and invited Argentina to attack in waves. Pathetic from Tuchel
Seen plenty of teams sit back and teams haven't been able to create anything. Argentina had about 5 or 6 chances. If they are incredibly ordinary I'm not sure what it says about the other 46 teams in the tournament.
One player created them all. He's 39. Unreal.
England shit the togs after the water break.
Where's your Wonderwall tonight, ye hoors:D
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 10:09:07 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:07:54 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 10:05:28 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:00:30 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Were they? England sat back unbelievably deep for some bizarre reason and invited Argentina to attack in waves. Pathetic from Tuchel
Seen plenty of teams sit back and teams haven't been able to create anything. Argentina had about 5 or 6 chances. If they are incredibly ordinary I'm not sure what it says about the other 46 teams in the tournament.
One player created them all. He's 39. Unreal.
He was superb. Ran the show.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 10:10:35 PMWhere's your Wonderwall tonight, ye hoors:D
Beat me to it
You are the music king after all
Unreal how no one tracked Martinez...who knows exactly were Messi is putting ball. Argies would have 4 goals another night.
The mgmt shit the bed. You only get one bite and a top team are gonna score.
What did the Falklands/Malvinas banner they were waving say? ;D
Quote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:07:54 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 10:05:28 PMQuote from: square_ball on July 15, 2026, 10:00:30 PMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 09:56:43 PMEither way I hope Spain don't choke on Sunday, if this Argentina spawn another world cup like last time it will be shit. They have been incredibly ordinary
They've been brilliant since England scored ffs. What more do you want?
Were they? England sat back unbelievably deep for some bizarre reason and invited Argentina to attack in waves. Pathetic from Tuchel
Seen plenty of teams sit back and teams haven't been able to create anything. Argentina had about 5 or 6 chances. If they are incredibly ordinary I'm not sure what it says about the other 46 teams in the tournament.
That's true as Norway did f**k all when they went down against England. I think there is a lack of quality generally, it could have been a year for some plucky underdog team to be in the mix but unfortunately never happened
Absolutely superb. Didn't like Argentina before now but a huge fan after that. They've that bit of dirt and nastiness I love to see, topped off with pure quality obviously. Should be some final, at least we can relax and enjoy it as a neutral now.
Fantastic stuff.
Bellingham a nasty little f**ker slapping one of the Argentina subs celebrating. Tuchel getting the blame already.
Bellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
They shit the nest. Simple as that. Big Dan Burns....what a f**king home ....ain't coming home this time either!!!
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 15, 2026, 10:13:54 PMAbsolutely superb. Didn't like Argentina before now but a huge fan after that. They've that bit of dirt and nastiness I love to see, topped off with pure quality obviously. Should be some final, at least we can relax and enjoy it as a neutral now.
Fantastic stuff.
Bellingham a nasty little f**ker slapping one of the Argentina subs celebrating. Tuchel getting the blame already.
Tuchel deserves the blame though? Shocking decisions around subs and tactical set up once they went 1-0 up
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 15, 2026, 10:14:08 PMBellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
Most of that English team are hard to like. Kane and Bellingham top of the list
Tuchel 100% deserves the blame that last half hour was a shambles!
Not that I'm complaining!
The German Allardyce
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 15, 2026, 10:13:54 PMAbsolutely superb. Didn't like Argentina before now but a huge fan after that. They've that bit of dirt and nastiness I love to see, topped off with pure quality obviously. Should be some final, at least we can relax and enjoy it as a neutral now.
Fantastic stuff.
Bellingham a nasty little f**ker slapping one of the Argentina subs celebrating. Tuchel getting the blame already.
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 15, 2026, 10:14:08 PMBellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
Never seen much of him before but thought he was a twat during the game.
Couldn't have scripted that one better if you tried. England tethering on the brink of a World Cup final and Argentina two brilliant late goals.
Quote from: screenexile on July 15, 2026, 10:16:33 PMTuchel 100% deserves the blame that last half hour was a shambles!
Not that I'm complaining!
He gambled and hoped they could hang on because he felt they werent good enough to finish the job.
Taking off your goalscorer whos been fantastic? Lol
Quote from: laoislad on July 15, 2026, 10:16:28 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 15, 2026, 10:14:08 PMBellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
Most of that English team are hard to like. Kane and Bellingham top of the list
and Rice obviously. And Pickford.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 15, 2026, 10:23:37 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 15, 2026, 10:16:28 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 15, 2026, 10:14:08 PMBellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
Most of that English team are hard to like. Kane and Bellingham top of the list
and Rice obviously. And Pickford.
Pickford the worst by a mile.
England never gonna win it, a year when i say France was the outstanding team, then didnt turn up, Spain good but not as good as their previous teams, poor German, Brazil and Holland Teans, Italy that bad they not even here. Next World Cup they be alot stronger.
Quote from: screenexile on July 15, 2026, 10:16:33 PMTuchel 100% deserves the blame that last half hour was a shambles!
Not that I'm complaining!
It was crazy. England doing ok Argentina created nothing. Once he decides to park the bus suddenly Argentina are given the freedom to play and could easily have scored about 5 in those 30 mins. It was incredibly naive at best lol
All the talk of hiring a top coach in Tuchel- would Southgate have been as cowardly as that? If they'd even left someone on the half way line for an out ball, but they literally invited England on to them and Messi did what he's been doing for 20 years lol. Easy work.
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 10:24:26 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 15, 2026, 10:23:37 PMQuote from: laoislad on July 15, 2026, 10:16:28 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 15, 2026, 10:14:08 PMBellingham acting a p***k after full time, hard to like.
Most of that English team are hard to like. Kane and Bellingham top of the list
and Rice obviously. And Pickford.
Pickford the worst by a mile.
When ball went wide and he near ran out of the box was cringe.
And if anyone thinks Ronaldo is or was a better player than Messi they are crazy.
Great to see, that's them home after the embarrassing third place game..
That said Argentina are a shower of passionate durty bastards lol
Argentina weakness is their full backs, don't see why Tuchel made subs and then left a team with no threat to run in behind. Even if game went extra time the team was so lopsided. Wonder will Tommy get the treatment Beckham got in 98 after losing Argies.
Very little chat about Argentinas quality. Yes, England's tactics were poor but Argentina still had to break them down, and what a job they did. Could have been 4 or 5. England created almost nothing aside from the goal.
Did Messi foul Spence just prior to the second goal. I thought that at the time.
Quote from: gerrykeegan on July 15, 2026, 10:29:25 PMDid Messi foul Spence just prior to the second goal. I thought that at the time.
I haven't managed to see a close up of it but it looked like he did catch him. Spence didn't really make much of an incident about it
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 10:27:08 PMAnd if anyone thinks Ronaldo is or was a better player than Messi they are crazy.
Only footballer that comes close is Maradona.
Jaysus, Micah Richards is a total arse. Impossible to listen to that. Captain hindsight
So in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 15, 2026, 10:24:46 PMQuote from: screenexile on July 15, 2026, 10:16:33 PMTuchel 100% deserves the blame that last half hour was a shambles!
Not that I'm complaining!
It was crazy. England doing ok Argentina created nothing. Once he decides to park the bus suddenly Argentina are given the freedom to play and could easily have scored about 5 in those 30 mins. It was incredibly naive at best lol
Argentina had started to get on top before the England goal against the run of play. To say they had created nothing just isn't true. The first half was mostly turgid stuff but Argentina completely dominated the second half.
It's not so much that they decided to try and shut up shop; it's how bad a job of it they did. Argentina were carving them open. Stones, Guehi, Burn etc all in there and Argentina had 3 or 4 really good chances from headers. They should have scored at least one more. A complete and utter collapse.
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
Quote from: statto on July 15, 2026, 10:28:22 PMArgentina weakness is their full backs, don't see why Tuchel made subs and then left a team with no threat to run in behind. Even if game went extra time the team was so lopsided. Wonder will Tommy get the treatment Beckham got in 98 after losing Argies.
Keane should have been called ashore - there was no thought of catching Argentina on the break with him on parked on the edge of his own box.
Knifes are out for tucal already.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 15, 2026, 10:43:17 PMKnifes are out for tucal already.
Wild scenes on talksport
https://youtu.be/p6EbhE8eNi8?is=uOg-AwuXWqtK-ToB
Did anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
Would a Jack Charlton go long with it, with Kane in behind and 2 serious speedy wingers and a massive work rate not work better than there current set up over the yrs. Like Norway outplayed them for long stretches and they a 1 man band.
Quote from: tyrone08 on July 15, 2026, 10:43:17 PMKnifes are out for tucal already.
And they should be.
That was absolute nonsense.
England would be better off with Harry Redknapp or Glenn Hoddle. That's the truth.
The first goal was from a Pickford Hollywood save from a ball that was going over. Lovely stuff.
It was very poor from England manager with more defenders on, no one seemed to take any responsibility. Not disappointed with the result but almost anyone with a bit of football knowledge could have sent on the big men to defend and hoped it would work.
Quote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2030 and maybe they'll win
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 10:56:06 PMQuote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2026 and maybe they'll win
Bit late for that now ;)
Quote from: thewobbler on July 15, 2026, 10:39:48 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
England players definitely technically as good as most. Is their biggest issue not the attritional nature of their league so they are all goosed by the time a tournament comes around. Their two best players play in other leagues.
He'll be some pup when his tail grows
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Da0sm27Mmfs/?igsh=MTVtbDZieW4yNHQ1dg==
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 11:03:31 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 15, 2026, 10:39:48 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
England players definitely technically as good as most. Is their biggest issue not the attritional nature of their league so they are all goosed by the time a tournament comes around. Their two best players play in other leagues.
And bar scoring their goals , I thought they were both very average in this tournament
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 10:56:06 PMQuote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2030 and maybe they'll win
It was by Ken Early from second captains and he was at least half taking the piss. However they had Tim Vickery (Brazil based for 30+ years) on a couple of days later and brought it up with him and he suggested there may be a kernel of truth. He described evangelical Protestantism as "the death of culture", which I thought was terrific.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 11:14:03 PMQuote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 11:03:31 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 15, 2026, 10:39:48 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
England players definitely technically as good as most. Is their biggest issue not the attritional nature of their league so they are all goosed by the time a tournament comes around. Their two best players play in other leagues.
And bar scoring their goals , I thought they were both very average in this tournament
Kane yes, but until tonight Bellingham had been phenomenal.
Spain wouldn't have lost much sleep watching either team...
(https://i.ibb.co/C5My23nw/FB-IMG-1784124363471.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5Wn3Fg51)
Same 2-1 result after all these years for England against Argentina although the ball won't be worth as much after tonight's game.
Quote from: Armagh4sam2024 on July 15, 2026, 11:19:18 PMSpain wouldn't have lost much sleep watching either team...
No but that Argentina team will kill to win. Spain wouldn't have that with the whole regional thing.
Quote from: gallsman on July 15, 2026, 11:19:01 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 15, 2026, 11:14:03 PMQuote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 11:03:31 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 15, 2026, 10:39:48 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
England players definitely technically as good as most. Is their biggest issue not the attritional nature of their league so they are all goosed by the time a tournament comes around. Their two best players play in other leagues.
And bar scoring their goals , I thought they were both very average in this tournament
Kane yes, but until tonight Bellingham had been phenomenal.
England players are not as technically good as Argentina etc, and I just don't get the Bellingham hype - pops up for the odd good goal, gets the odd yellow card and whips the crowd up - so what?
A great nights entertainment.
Yup their desire to win matters a lot.
If they do some Argie Bargie who knows.
Ref let it go a fair bit
What chance Lionel togs in 2030?
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 15, 2026, 10:47:29 PMThe first goal was from a Pickford Hollywood save from a ball that was going over. Lovely stuff.
You sure it wasn't going in?
Toney was stuck on near the end. He hadn't featured in the world cup up to now. He may aswell have put on Henderson with his arm in the sling.
Quote from: statto on July 15, 2026, 10:28:22 PMArgentina weakness is their full backs, don't see why Tuchel made subs and then left a team with no threat to run in behind. Even if game went extra time the team was so lopsided. Wonder will Tommy get the treatment Beckham got in 98 after losing Argies.
You get the impression Tuchel didn't trust his team to go toe-to-toe with Argentina, hence the increased defensive posture after scoring. His comments about 'lack of quality' after the Norway win were telling. I'm not sure if Argentina have better players (with one obvious exception) than England, but England couldn't play like them in the final 30 minutes of they had to.
Quote from: gallsman on July 15, 2026, 11:18:06 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 10:56:06 PMQuote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2030 and maybe they'll win
It was by Ken Early from second captains and he was at least half taking the piss. However they had Tim Vickery (Brazil based for 30+ years) on a couple of days later and brought it up with him and he suggested there may be a kernel of truth. He described evangelical Protestantism as "the death of culture", which I thought was terrific.
This is an unbelievable shout. Just goin back through the winners I. My head nearly every year I can think of is a catholic country only exception being Germany which is secular but i think Catholicism would be up there as the biggest!
Explains why the Dutch can't win it!
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 11:23:30 PMQuote from: Armagh4sam2024 on July 15, 2026, 11:19:18 PMSpain wouldn't have lost much sleep watching either team...
No but that Argentina team will kill to win. Spain wouldn't have that with the whole regional thing.
Yeah, especially when they went 2-1 up , the Argentina defenders were throwing themselves at headers like their lives depended on it.
Messi was UNPLAYABLE after England scored
He was like a corner forward 'on it' screaming "give me the effin ball"
He's 39. Absolutely and utterly INCREDIBLE
Argentina hasn't led in any of its four World Cup knockout matches through 90 minutes — but still sits one win away from immortality (again).
◽️ 111' extra-time winner vs. Cabo Verde
◽️ 92' stoppage-time winner vs. Egypt
◽️ 112' extra-time winner vs. Switzerland
◽️ 92' stoppage-time winner vs. England
Bellingham switched off and allowed the shot after quick corner. Seemed to lack leadership or game mgmt at player level.
Arg World cup champs for a reason. Never panicked and knew English would.
Like the French for all the BS chat about positivity and good vibes they lack espirit de corps.
Twice this century a team has took lead in World Cup semi final and lost. Both times England.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 10:56:06 PMQuote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2030 and maybe they'll win
Bring back Bloody Mary?
Didn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
Up to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
or maybe they just believe what was on the banner?
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 16, 2026, 08:19:43 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
or maybe they just believe what was on the banner?
They can believe it all they want. Its a pretty lame claim they have, Northern Ireland it certainly isn't and you don't see the republic team running around with banners at an England match embarrassing themselves
Quote from: mrdeeds on July 15, 2026, 11:03:31 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 15, 2026, 10:39:48 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 15, 2026, 10:35:13 PMSo in the end England didn't have a better manager than Southgate.
Nope.
They got exactly the same.
Men who would rather lie down than fight.
Eventually England will get a manager who realises they don't have the technique or patience to play other country's football.
That's when the real problems could start for the anti English.
Until then they're just pissing into the wind. Hitting the same again with a different result theory into a theorem.
England players definitely technically as good as most. Is their biggest issue not the attritional nature of their league so they are all goosed by the time a tournament comes around. Their two best players play in other leagues.
They can't control a game and never could. Never had the midfield for it. They are good players on individual merits but Spain, France, Italy can control a game's tempo.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:39:48 AMQuote from: tonto1888 on July 16, 2026, 08:19:43 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
or maybe they just believe what was on the banner?
They can believe it all they want. Its a pretty lame claim they have, Northern Ireland it certainly isn't and you don't see the republic team running around with banners at an England match embarrassing themselves
next time we play them in a WC Semi final maybe we will
Quote from: WT4E on July 15, 2026, 11:50:52 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 15, 2026, 11:18:06 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 15, 2026, 10:56:06 PMQuote from: weareros on July 15, 2026, 10:46:36 PMDid anyone read that Irish Times article than the reason Brazil are rubbish now is because most of their players are evangelical Protestant and were majority Catholic nation when winning World Cups. Two Catholic nations in final (give or take a Muslim or two) . Maybe England need to ditch the boring auld Church of England.
I read that and seen a TikTok about it was very interesting. England need a good dose of Catholicism before 2030 and maybe they'll win
It was by Ken Early from second captains and he was at least half taking the piss. However they had Tim Vickery (Brazil based for 30+ years) on a couple of days later and brought it up with him and he suggested there may be a kernel of truth. He described evangelical Protestantism as "the death of culture", which I thought was terrific.
This is an unbelievable shout. Just goin back through the winners I. My head nearly every year I can think of is a catholic country only exception being Germany which is secular but i think Catholicism would be up there as the biggest!
Explains why the Dutch can't win it!
We must be due it soon so.
Wonder if all the staunch Argentinian supporters on here will be switching to Spain for the final given the Argies are apparently big allies with Israel
Nerve touched that your precious england lost
Quote from: jb77 on July 16, 2026, 08:57:15 AMNerve touched that your precious england lost
Not in the slightest ;D
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:39:48 AMQuote from: tonto1888 on July 16, 2026, 08:19:43 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
or maybe they just believe what was on the banner?
They can believe it all they want. Its a pretty lame claim they have, Northern Ireland it certainly isn't and you don't see the republic team running around with banners at an England match embarrassing themselves
Dry your eyes. And it's the north of Ireland thank you very much.
Quote from: tintin25 on July 16, 2026, 08:46:20 AMWonder if all the staunch Argentinian supporters on here will be switching to Spain for the final given the Argies are apparently big allies with Israel
Yeah probably will. Yamal known to be a Palestine supporter. Something likeable about Argentinas doggedness though.
The German McGuinness, snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, tactical brain haemorrhage
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 09:06:12 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:39:48 AMQuote from: tonto1888 on July 16, 2026, 08:19:43 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:59:49 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 07:48:26 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 06:50:34 AMDidn't see the banner the players held up last night- Las Malvinas son Argentinas, apparently under the rules can be disqualified for it not that it'll happen
FIFA have no spine. Expect a $1000 fine for Argentina. It would be funny if the twerps with the flag were given one match bans ie they miss the final
Twerps? Why? Not a chance they ban anyone for the final lol
That's what I said noone would get a ban but maybe they should they are acting childish. They have just got into the world cup final and instead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
or maybe they just believe what was on the banner?
They can believe it all they want. Its a pretty lame claim they have, Northern Ireland it certainly isn't and you don't see the republic team running around with banners at an England match embarrassing themselves
Dry your eyes. And it's the north of Ireland thank you very much.
they must have been trying to wind up england when they had a similar banner v slovenia also
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
I was surprised they didn't just put someone to man mark only messi and follow him about the pitch, kind of like what Fergie used to use Ji Sung Park and Mourinho with Ander Herrera. Mind you its a lot easier said than done. Would require elite discipline which is something the England players lacked
Quote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Agree completely with all this. A team trying to win a tournament should never need to resort to a flat back 5 with a defender in midfield unless you are a man down and it's the last 5 minutes. Trying to do it for half an hour was suicidal.
That one will haunt England for a long time.
Tuchel knew the goal came against the run of play and it was from a defenders mistake.
Bellingham surely fouled Messi for peno as well. Then Spence did a great tackle.
Would be interesting to see stats on chances / crosses. English players lost it on the night.
Is the Argentina manager getting the plaudits? No. Messi is
The 2 world cup finalists have failed to beat Cape Verde over a 90 minute game.
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 16, 2026, 10:20:44 AMThe 2 world cup finalists have failed to beat Cape Verde over a 90 minute game.
Cape Verde therefore are the best team in the tournament.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 09:49:49 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Agree completely with all this. A team trying to win a tournament should never need to resort to a flat back 5 with a defender in midfield unless you are a man down and it's the last 5 minutes. Trying to do it for half an hour was suicidal.
That one will haunt England for a long time.
Sure they did the same v Mexico. Only Mexico didn't just have the quality/luck to equalise. So Tuchel was labelled a genius for it , and the England players were labelled as heroic and warriors.
They concede two here , and Tuchel's a numpty.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2026, 10:27:21 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 09:49:49 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Agree completely with all this. A team trying to win a tournament should never need to resort to a flat back 5 with a defender in midfield unless you are a man down and it's the last 5 minutes. Trying to do it for half an hour was suicidal.
That one will haunt England for a long time.
Sure they did the same v Mexico. Only Mexico didn't just have the quality/luck to equalise. So Tuchel was labelled a genius for it , and the England players were labelled as heroic and warriors.
They concede two here , and Tuchel's a numpty.
Mexicos only plan was to lump it in after that.
Argentina are a better team and realised it left a huge amount of space in the number 10 position and Enzo took advantage. The second goal was just a perfect cross.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 09:49:49 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Agree completely with all this. A team trying to win a tournament should never need to resort to a flat back 5 with a defender in midfield unless you are a man down and it's the last 5 minutes. Trying to do it for half an hour was suicidal.
That one will haunt England for a long time.
If Tuchel had replaced Gordon and Rogers with Rashford and Saka there's a good chance England could have scored again when Argentina were becoming more open. As brilliant as he is, Kane is not the man to be your only outlet when you go that defensive. A game there for the taking no doubt.
Quote from: mouview on July 16, 2026, 10:25:27 AMQuote from: Hoof Hearted on July 16, 2026, 10:20:44 AMThe 2 world cup finalists have failed to beat Cape Verde over a 90 minute game.
Cape Verde therefore are the best team in the tournament.
Well they can certainly take some satisfaction
Shearer is unbelievably biased on England games.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 16, 2026, 10:27:21 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 09:49:49 AMQuote from: brokencrossbar1 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:33 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 07:16:17 AMUp to England scoring they contained any threat Messi had, then after that allowed him to sit on the right wing and have influence on the game, he took every corner on the right wing the same? And they allowed it, it was obviously a training ground exercise but they switched off..
Inviting a team that good to push you back the large square for 20 odd minutes defending was never really going to end well
Taking Gordon off and going to a back 5 meant that there was no extra cover on that wing which completely freed up Messi, and idiotic move. If they were going to a back 5 I would have kept Gordon on but taken off Rice and gone to 3-4-3 with it going to 5 when out of possession. That would have closed the space down on the wing but they went to a straight back 5 and tried to Tony Pulis the win!
Agree completely with all this. A team trying to win a tournament should never need to resort to a flat back 5 with a defender in midfield unless you are a man down and it's the last 5 minutes. Trying to do it for half an hour was suicidal.
That one will haunt England for a long time.
Sure they did the same v Mexico. Only Mexico didn't just have the quality/luck to equalise. So Tuchel was labelled a genius for it , and the England players were labelled as heroic and warriors.
They concede two here , and Tuchel's a numpty.
Mexico were down to 10 men so the backs against the wall approach was needed but this game Argentina had like a 3-1-6 set up when they went behind which would have left holes all over the place to exploit but instead England just tried to defend and keep guys like Kane and Bellingham on who were quite clearly knackered. When they go out on penalties it's a bit of a laugh for us but they can say they were unlucky or just shite at penalties but this time it was just all a bit pathetic. When Ireland play like that it's annoying but at least it's because we don't have the players to do much else wtf were England at.
Quote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMinstead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Well, I mean, the Malvinas are 7,000 miles from England. Just 300 miles from Argentina. And it's the Argentinians who feel they are getting the raw deal. So they're going to care more, aren't they?
But let's not pretend the English don't care. I don't think I saw one news bulletin/preview of the game in the last few days where the english media were not referencing the political/historical significance of the fixture.
So I'll not get annoyed as you appear to be for the
"two world wars and one world cup, England f**ked your country up" crew who have just been so terribly offended by a banner!
Kane and Bellingham will be left scratching their heads, Bayern and Real wouldn't be accustomed to parking the bus like that with 20mins to go when 1-0 up 11 v 11
It was evident that Mexico didn't have the quality when given 20 opportunities to put the ball in the mixer
The Argies did
Long balls to Dan Burn and Ivan Toney to finish, life comes at you fast
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 10:41:59 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMinstead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Well, I mean, the Malvinas are 7,000 miles from England. Just 300 miles from Argentina. And it's the Argentinians who feel they are getting the raw deal. So they're going to care more, aren't they?
But let's not pretend the English don't care. I don't think I saw one news bulletin/preview of the game in the last few days where the english media were not referencing the political/historical significance of the fixture.
So I'll not get annoyed as you appear to be for the "two world wars and one world cup, England f**ked your country up" crew who have just been so terribly offended by a banner!
Farage even tweeted before the game:
"Let's do it all over again like 1982".
There was AI Slop doing the rounds of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham winning the Falklands War. Henderson was flying a war jet. Same fella who broke his arm trying to jump over an advertisement hoarding was now winning a war. Maggie appeared too rolling her hands loviningly on teary eyed Bellingham's face.
The mindset of many English supporters is military jingoism, which is why they are still singing about two world wars and one world cup, even with a German manager (they turned on him quick) and a captain who plays in Germany. Their language and much of gene pool is German. Eejits.
Tuchel played that card v Mexico. The Argentinians couldn't believe their luck that he did the same again. At any level the analysts are analysing. At a WC semi final....
1986: England Vs Hand of God
2026: England vs God himself
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 10:41:59 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMinstead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Well, I mean, the Malvinas are 7,000 miles from England. Just 300 miles from Argentina. And it's the Argentinians who feel they are getting the raw deal. So they're going to care more, aren't they?
But let's not pretend the English don't care. I don't think I saw one news bulletin/preview of the game in the last few days where the english media were not referencing the political/historical significance of the fixture.
So I'll not get annoyed as you appear to be for the "two world wars and one world cup, England f**ked your country up" crew who have just been so terribly offended by a banner!
.
99.8% of the Falklands voted to remain British in the 2013 referendum.
Just 3 people voted No.
Some people seem to be all for self determination when it comes to the 6 counties, but not the Falklands, no. That's different.
Any talk of Argentina having a claim to them because they are only 300 mile away is just silly.
Imagine the row on here if England had won and the players danced on the pitch with a banner saying "The Falklands are British". Lol.
That said anyone in England calling for visas being revoked over the issue is insane.
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 10:41:59 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMinstead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Well, I mean, the Malvinas are 7,000 miles from England. Just 300 miles from Argentina. And it's the Argentinians who feel they are getting the raw deal. So they're going to care more, aren't they?
But let's not pretend the English don't care. I don't think I saw one news bulletin/preview of the game in the last few days where the english media were not referencing the political/historical significance of the fixture.
So I'll not get annoyed as you appear to be for the "two world wars and one world cup, England f**ked your country up" crew who have just been so terribly offended by a banner!
Yes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center.. The Malvinas or Falklands was owned by others (France, Spain, Britan) long before Argentina became a country.. I'm not sure of the make up of the country, nor do I care if I'm being honest, how many Argentinian natives live there now and before 1982?
I think the Brits kicked everyone out after at the time of Argentina becoming a nation from Spain and then wanted their territories, which is a bit rich.. The country is too small to be independent and probably too important to the UK in the future to give up.. Do they have elections?
No matter what happens next tournament England and its fan will convince themselves theyre the best and end up disappointed again.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
What's the threshold for what's acceptable and not acceptable? What distance? Guessing it's somewhere between 300 and 7000 mile going by your last few posts.
Bear in mind, 12 mile seperate Ireland and Britain at the narrowest point.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 11:00:40 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 10:41:59 AMQuote from: JPGJOHNNYG on July 16, 2026, 08:06:30 AMinstead of enjoying the moment they want to try and wind up the English players and fans who by and large couldn't actually give a toss about the falklands
Well, I mean, the Malvinas are 7,000 miles from England. Just 300 miles from Argentina. And it's the Argentinians who feel they are getting the raw deal. So they're going to care more, aren't they?
But let's not pretend the English don't care. I don't think I saw one news bulletin/preview of the game in the last few days where the english media were not referencing the political/historical significance of the fixture.
So I'll not get annoyed as you appear to be for the "two world wars and one world cup, England f**ked your country up" crew who have just been so terribly offended by a banner!
.
99.8% of the Falklands voted to remain British in the 2013 referendum.
Just 3 people voted No.
Some people seem to be all for self determination when it comes to the 6 counties, but not the Falklands, no. That's different.
Any talk of Argentina having a claim to them because they are only 300 mile away is just silly.
Imagine the row on here if England had won and the players danced on the pitch with a banner saying "The Falklands are British". Lol.
That said anyone in England calling for visas being revoked over the issue is insane.
Unionists are a majority in the 6, suck it up Padraig...
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 16, 2026, 11:10:19 AMNo matter what happens next tournament England and its fan will convince themselves theyre the best and end up disappointed again.
Probably have a decent chance at the next Euros in England to be fair.
Quote from: tiempo on July 16, 2026, 09:15:41 AMThe German McGuinness, snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, tactical brain haemorrhage
What a stupid comment.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 11:24:15 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
What's the threshold for what's acceptable and not acceptable? What distance? Guessing it's somewhere between 300 and 7000 mile going by your last few posts.
Bear in mind, 12 mile seperate Ireland and Britain at the narrowest point.
Why are you asking me? Milltown is the one suggesting that countries claiming territory within 300 miles is the reason for war in the world, rather than the ones claiming territories 7,000 miles away.
He's probably right though. Colonialists are just getting a bad rap. Clearly Las Malvinas are in Britain's geographical hinterland so it's definitely hard to see what Argentina's problem is really:
(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/1600/cpsprodpb/21b1/live/c60621a0-3fe4-11f1-bd52-e755d604ece4.jpg)
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
All countries have a right to self governance, its no more Argentinean than it is British no matter the distance between them.. Let them sort out their own issues and carry out a referendum that way there is no conflicts
I've no doubt the Argentineans feel that this is their own land as it was Spain's before that so after gaining independence they feel they own it from that point.. But its a bit rich? Considering no one from Argentina lived there?
The rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
Not sure which of Piers Morgans two tweets was the funniest with England 1-0 up.
Piers Morgan
Is Messi playing?
Piers Morgan
This has been a Tuchel tactical masterclass. Take us home, Thomas!
Ultimately England got as far and did as well as expected in this competition. Needing to beat the defending World Cup champions was a bridge too far.
Main downfall for them last night was scoring too early, Argentina was always going to throw their lot at it and it was the 3rd game in a row that England used what we have we hold tactics.
In the end no matter how many defenders England finished games with they haven't been good enough defensively, the defending for the first Argentina goal to give Enzo Fernández that time and room to shoot was poor the 2nd goal was even worse, Messi left completely unmarked to pick out a cross and Lautaro Martínez able to get in the middle of two six foot plus defenders to head home the winner.
Was said reading back on this thread "only a matter of time before England win a major tournament" I can't see it unless they discover some top quality defenders in the years ahead, at the moment the best defenders in the Premier League aren't English. Need a lot more from their midfield also, with protecting the defence and retaining possession. Declan Rice might have the excuse of a long season with Arsenal but he looked fairy average throughout this World Cup.
As for the final given the controlling possession game and how organised Spain are defensively it's probably for the best that Argentina take the lead or you could see similar to the Spain v France match.
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:53:12 AMQuote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 11:24:15 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
What's the threshold for what's acceptable and not acceptable? What distance? Guessing it's somewhere between 300 and 7000 mile going by your last few posts.
Bear in mind, 12 mile seperate Ireland and Britain at the narrowest point.
Why are you asking me? Milltown is the one suggesting that countries claiming territory within 300 miles is the reason for war in the world, rather than the ones claiming territories 7,000 miles away.
He's probably right though. Colonialists are just getting a bad rap. Clearly Las Malvinas are in Britain's geographical hinterland so it's definitely hard to see what Argentina's problem is really:
(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/1600/cpsprodpb/21b1/live/c60621a0-3fe4-11f1-bd52-e755d604ece4.jpg)
We are in Britain's geographical hinterland.
Think about what you're saying man.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:56:03 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
All countries have a right to self governance, its no more Argentinean than it is British no matter the distance between them.. Let them sort out their own issues and carry out a referendum that way there is no conflicts
I've no doubt the Argentineans feel that this is their own land as it was Spain's before that so after gaining independence they feel they own it from that point.. But its a bit rich? Considering no one from Argentina lived there?
A full throated defence of British imperialism on a GAA board by a guy from Belfast.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 16, 2026, 12:06:33 PMWe are in Britain's geographical hinterland.
Think about what you're saying man.
The point being that, according to the logic some here, we're also in Argentina's.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Quote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Quote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
100%. I think people actually have little material knowledge about the Falklands War, or who was fighting it on the Argentine side.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Are you neutral on the Falklands War?
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:23:17 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
100%. I think people actually have little material knowledge about the Falklands War, or who was fighting it on the Argentine side.
I know the calibre of mongrel that was fighting for the Brits in the 80's, we seen plenty of them here. I'd support the devil himself over those bastards.
JollyGreenGiant/Falklands, we're all blessed to have you both here to illuminate the great unwashed, uneducated savages.
Personally though, I was just challenging Milltown's suggestion that it's the countries that claim sovereignty over islands on their immediate doorstep who cause more world conflict than the countries that claim territories thousands of miles away from their shores.
Anyway, who's winning the final?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 12:32:01 PMJollyGreenGiant/Falklands, we're all blessed to have you both here to illuminate the great unwashed, uneducated savages.
Personally though, I was just challenging Milltown's suggestion that it's the countries that claim sovereignty over islands on their immediate doorstep who cause more world conflict than the countries that claim territories thousands of miles away from their shores.
But it opened up other lines of conversation. We know England has been a conflict maker for centuries. But specific, I have found the reanimation of Argentina nationalism around the Falklands - in close proximity to the game) to be distasteful, and entirely forgetful of what Argentina was at the time, and why it invaded.
Where to start on last night. It's the hope that kills they say and England will be crushed today. They've led a pretty charmed tournament up to this but in 20 minutes flat all their chickens not only came home to roost, but completely lay the boot into them when they were prone on the floor.
They are a counter attacking team. That is their strength, that is their player profile. They don't produce orchestra conductors for the middle and they don't have 5 Maldinis or the like in defense. They went 1 nil up, perfect, but then turned the screw on themselves instead.
Proof of the pudding is always in the eating and hard to feel sorry for Tuchel with the shit coming his way. Made some pretty big statements with his squad selection that haven't stood the test. You always need a little something different in tournaments so what the hell was the point in bringing Mainoo if he had no intention of playing him, EVER! Henderson on the bench with a broken arm. Palmer and Foden at home. The Greek tragedy writes itself. Trent too could have offered something a bit different at some stage. He's a brave man staying in the job because he will be despised in that squad. The phone calls for the next round up of the troops will be funny. Even big Harry will be thinking he would have cut out that cross and the desperate tactic of giving it to Pickford to pump up the field 70 yards was tailor made for him. It's so f*****g hilarious I almost feel sorry for the twats in their ranks. And Bellingham with all his Billy big bollix digs at the manager and ex players that this team doesn't choke!!!! Only thing missing was for Pickford to trip on his laces and face plant the ball into the back of his own net.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 12:29:19 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:23:17 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
100%. I think people actually have little material knowledge about the Falklands War, or who was fighting it on the Argentine side.
I know the calibre of mongrel that was fighting for the Brits in the 80's, we seen plenty of them here. I'd support the devil himself over those bastards.
Fair enough. The Argentina military junta at the time was doing something very similar to its own people at time.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:34:25 PMBut specific, I have found the reanimation of Argentina nationalism around the Falklands - in close proximity to the game) to be distasteful, and entirely forgetful of what Argentina was at the time, and why it invaded.
Given Britain's past, and it's War Crimes in that specific conflict, I find it odd that it's only the Agentinian nationalism around the islands/the war ahead of the game that you found distateful, but each to their own.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:15:28 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:56:03 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
All countries have a right to self governance, its no more Argentinean than it is British no matter the distance between them.. Let them sort out their own issues and carry out a referendum that way there is no conflicts
I've no doubt the Argentineans feel that this is their own land as it was Spain's before that so after gaining independence they feel they own it from that point.. But its a bit rich? Considering no one from Argentina lived there?
A full throated defence of British imperialism on a GAA board by a guy from Belfast.
Some mental gymnastics to have a dig..
Its simple enough and I already made it easy enough for dumb people to understand.. No country should have a claim on any country that's not theirs.. So in my post where have I defended British imperialism?
Take your time to point it out...
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 12:39:08 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:34:25 PMBut specific, I have found the reanimation of Argentina nationalism around the Falklands - in close proximity to the game) to be distasteful, and entirely forgetful of what Argentina was at the time, and why it invaded.
Given Britain's past, and it's War Crimes in that specific conflict, I find it odd that it's only the Agentinian nationalism around the islands/the war ahead of the game that you found distateful, but each to their own.
Where have I said I don't find British Nationalism and jingoism distasteful (or even hateful). I'll tell you that I do. But that doesn't mean I have to applaud Argentina for its invasion, or support (softly or otherwise) the invasion.
How have we turned a football thread into a politics thread ffs.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 16, 2026, 01:04:51 PMHow have we turned a football thread into a politics thread ffs.
England-Argentina is inherently political.
Downing Street getting involved now.
The French to beat England 3rd place play off.
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 16, 2026, 01:04:51 PMHow have we turned a football thread into a politics thread ffs.
Never underestimate the board 😂😂
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:24:16 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Are you neutral on the Falklands War?
Yes and no. A military junta distracting from domestic woes versus Thatcher distracting from domestic woes, let them both lose. But my overriding opinion is empire should end. Tbe British have no right to their colonial outposts
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 12:41:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:15:28 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:56:03 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
All countries have a right to self governance, its no more Argentinean than it is British no matter the distance between them.. Let them sort out their own issues and carry out a referendum that way there is no conflicts
I've no doubt the Argentineans feel that this is their own land as it was Spain's before that so after gaining independence they feel they own it from that point.. But its a bit rich? Considering no one from Argentina lived there?
A full throated defence of British imperialism on a GAA board by a guy from Belfast.
Some mental gymnastics to have a dig..
Its simple enough and I already made it easy enough for dumb people to understand.. No country should have a claim on any country that's not theirs.. So in my post where have I defended British imperialism?
Take your time to point it out...
Because the British colonial project was so successful of course the referendum went their way. Same as 1973...
You are making an equivalence between the claims, but geography disagrees
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 16, 2026, 01:29:28 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 16, 2026, 01:04:51 PMHow have we turned a football thread into a politics thread ffs.
Never underestimate the board 😂😂
I'm surprised the world is in the sorry state that it is.
I thought our experts on here would have it sorted by now !!
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 01:45:57 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:24:16 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Are you neutral on the Falklands War?
Yes and no. A military junta distracting from domestic woes versus Thatcher distracting from domestic woes, let them both lose. But my overriding opinion is empire should end. Tbe British have no right to their colonial outposts
I totally agree with that. But that doesn't mean Argentina had any right of invasion. They were responsible for the hostilities, and hostilities that never needed to happen. In 1980 the UK had actually explored a leaseback option, which the inhabitants were not interested in. That required a gradual change in the views of the island's inhabitants. I'm not sure what Argentina hoped to achieve.
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 16, 2026, 01:51:37 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 16, 2026, 01:29:28 PMQuote from: Mourne Red on July 16, 2026, 01:04:51 PMHow have we turned a football thread into a politics thread ffs.
Never underestimate the board 😂😂
I'm surprised the world is in the sorry state that it is.
I thought our experts on here would have it sorted by now !!
I swear tae fcuk they'll study this place in the years to come Hoof 😂
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 01:48:19 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 12:41:54 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:22:15 PMQuote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 12:20:24 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
It's not about territorial claims or rights, historic, perceived, inferred or otherwise.
It's about people looking any excuse to cheer against England. Very easy for people to look at things through the lens of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" without actually considering the nature of that "friend" or looking at the legitimacy of their cause.
Or it's about nationalists from the 6c defending British colonial endeavours
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 16, 2026, 12:15:28 PMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:56:03 AMQuote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 11:16:10 AMQuote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 11:01:26 AMYes and if every country claimed the country next to it because it was only 300 miles from its country then there would be conflicts left right and center
And what about countries claiming territory as far away as 7,000 miles away? Could that lead to conflict too?
All countries have a right to self governance, its no more Argentinean than it is British no matter the distance between them.. Let them sort out their own issues and carry out a referendum that way there is no conflicts
I've no doubt the Argentineans feel that this is their own land as it was Spain's before that so after gaining independence they feel they own it from that point.. But its a bit rich? Considering no one from Argentina lived there?
A full throated defence of British imperialism on a GAA board by a guy from Belfast.
Some mental gymnastics to have a dig..
Its simple enough and I already made it easy enough for dumb people to understand.. No country should have a claim on any country that's not theirs.. So in my post where have I defended British imperialism?
Take your time to point it out...
Because the British colonial project was so successful of course the referendum went their way. Same as 1973...
You are making an equivalence between the claims, but geography disagrees
You claimed I was in full throttled defence of british imperialism, I've asked you to show me where and ya haven't
But anyways enjoy the final..
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
The junta killed 3000 Jews. Israel supplied it with weapons
Quote from: Snapchap on July 16, 2026, 12:32:59 PMAnyway, who's winning the final?
Spain the obvious, easy answer, but sticking my neck out, I'm leaning Argentina. Messi was something else in that last half hour last night, and Argentina always look capable of grabbing a couple of goals with the overall firepower they have. Yeah, Spain can pass anyone to death and are very hard to break down and won't make the stupid tactical errors that the English made, but this Argentina team just seem to have that will to win.
Quote from: seafoid on July 16, 2026, 03:02:53 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 16, 2026, 12:01:22 PMThe rationale behind the Argentine invasion of the Falklands should give anybody pause for applauding it. A right wing military junta led by human rights abusers invaded for political and nationalist interests. They assumed nobody would oppose them (they didn't like people opposing them - as evidenced by the disappearance of thousands of opponents during the Dirty Wa).
The junta killed 3000 Jews. Israel supplied it with weapons
Lol this thread is crazy enough without bringing you and Israel into it.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 16, 2026, 12:34:48 PMWhere to start on last night. It's the hope that kills they say and England will be crushed today. They've led a pretty charmed tournament up to this but in 20 minutes flat all their chickens not only came home to roost, but completely lay the boot into them when they were prone on the floor.
They are a counter attacking team. That is their strength, that is their player profile. They don't produce orchestra conductors for the middle and they don't have 5 Maldinis or the like in defense. They went 1 nil up, perfect, but then turned the screw on themselves instead.
Proof of the pudding is always in the eating and hard to feel sorry for Tuchel with the shit coming his way. Made some pretty big statements with his squad selection that haven't stood the test. You always need a little something different in tournaments so what the hell was the point in bringing Mainoo if he had no intention of playing him, EVER! Henderson on the bench with a broken arm. Palmer and Foden at home. The Greek tragedy writes itself. Trent too could have offered something a bit different at some stage. He's a brave man staying in the job because he will be despised in that squad. The phone calls for the next round up of the troops will be funny. Even big Harry will be thinking he would have cut out that cross and the desperate tactic of giving it to Pickford to pump up the field 70 yards was tailor made for him. It's so f*****g hilarious I almost feel sorry for the twats in their ranks. And Bellingham with all his Billy big bollix digs at the manager and ex players that this team doesn't choke!!!! Only thing missing was for Pickford to trip on his laces and face plant the ball into the back of his own net.
Good post, but given what's come before it and after it reminds me of the 2 Ronnies doing the news:
Sport now, and in the match between Celtic and Rangers, fighting was interrupted when football broke out on the pitch
Quote from: square_ball on July 16, 2026, 11:39:10 AMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 16, 2026, 11:10:19 AMNo matter what happens next tournament England and its fan will convince themselves theyre the best and end up disappointed again.
Probably have a decent chance at the next Euros in England to be fair.
Its the same story again and again. They get carried away and convince themselves they are world beaters.
Alan Shearer, you are just embarassed for the man at this stage.
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 16, 2026, 04:30:50 PMAlan Shearer, you are just embarassed for the man at this stage.
He was pretty magnanimous post match. Said that the better team won, without any equivocation or qualification.
As for the final, I can't see any logical, radical reason to pick Argentina, other than the fact they have Messi. Which might be enough.
Didn't the Spanish chant something about Gibraltar after they beat England in the Euros final?
Would fancy the Spanish but its anyones game. Glad the Messi Ronaldo stuff has been put to bed, a back to back WC would cement Messis greatness
Referring to Shearers hype during game and general over excitement. Its brutal to listen to.
I thought the Spanish couldn't be beat but I would be unsure after last night. Argentina impressive after they conceded. It is however hard to know how much England really imploded vs how good Argentina were.
Money on cucarella to get a yellow for booting messi. He definitely won't get the same space but even on limited space he's so capable of producing some magic.
Thought he got caught in possession a bit when space was at a premium.
Messi still has that touch of class but Jesus I reckon David Beckham could have came on for Argentina at his age and got a couple of assists England were that bad. Can guarantee Spain won't give him the time or space he got late on, had a few moments early in the game but didn't look like causing any harm until agent Tuchel went full on defence mode.
Expect Yamal and co to get the shite booted out of them, a lot will come down to the ref, with Trump and Infantino having a big say there Spain likely won't get much. Spain obviously the better footballing team but Argentina have that brilliant doggedness and dirt and obviously the Messi factor.
Should be a good watch.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:31:53 PMMessi still has that touch of class but Jesus I reckon David Beckham could have came on for Argentina at his age and got a couple of assists England were that bad. Can guarantee Spain won't give him the time or space he got late on, had a few moments early in the game but didn't look like causing any harm until agent Tuchel went full on defence mode.
Expect Yamal and co to get the shite booted out of them, a lot will come down to the ref, with Trump and Infantino having a big say there Spain likely won't get much. Spain obviously the better footballing team but Argentina have that brilliant doggedness and dirt and obviously the Messi factor.
Should be a good watch.
Yamal has probably had his card marked by the refs. In the last match he was claiming stuff all through the match and the ref just ignored him or told him to get up. Luckily he got the most important decision.
Heard the story of some rapper who let it slip that he was told the day before to present the MOTM award to Messi in the Argentina Egypt match . Then backtracked and said or whoever player was MOTM
Another story of Yamal MOTM v Belgium I think , but apparently he was poor.
Something strange going on in Cloud cuckoo FIFA land?
The truth is out there...
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:31:53 PMMessi still has that touch of class but Jesus I reckon David Beckham could have came on for Argentina at his age and got a couple of assists England were that bad. Can guarantee Spain won't give him the time or space he got late on, had a few moments early in the game but didn't look like causing any harm until agent Tuchel went full on defence mode.
Expect Yamal and co to get the shite booted out of them, a lot will come down to the ref, with Trump and Infantino having a big say there Spain likely won't get much. Spain obviously the better footballing team but Argentina have that brilliant doggedness and dirt and obviously the Messi factor.
Should be a good watch.
Beckham appeared on screen more often than Kane.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2026, 08:42:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:31:53 PMMessi still has that touch of class but Jesus I reckon David Beckham could have came on for Argentina at his age and got a couple of assists England were that bad. Can guarantee Spain won't give him the time or space he got late on, had a few moments early in the game but didn't look like causing any harm until agent Tuchel went full on defence mode.
Expect Yamal and co to get the shite booted out of them, a lot will come down to the ref, with Trump and Infantino having a big say there Spain likely won't get much. Spain obviously the better footballing team but Argentina have that brilliant doggedness and dirt and obviously the Messi factor.
Should be a good watch.
Beckham appeared on screen more often than Kane.
Probably played a bigger role too
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 09:02:07 PMQuote from: blanketattack on July 16, 2026, 08:42:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 07:31:53 PMMessi still has that touch of class but Jesus I reckon David Beckham could have came on for Argentina at his age and got a couple of assists England were that bad. Can guarantee Spain won't give him the time or space he got late on, had a few moments early in the game but didn't look like causing any harm until agent Tuchel went full on defence mode.
Expect Yamal and co to get the shite booted out of them, a lot will come down to the ref, with Trump and Infantino having a big say there Spain likely won't get much. Spain obviously the better footballing team but Argentina have that brilliant doggedness and dirt and obviously the Messi factor.
Should be a good watch.
Beckham appeared on screen more often than Kane.
Probably played a bigger role too
In fairness to Kane it was him dropping deep and getting involved that led to the goal. Anonymous other than that though.
I'm a completely avowed Kane fan.
And I've watched England more closely than an Irishman should for the past 5 tournaments as a result.
It's the same theme every time. England go out go by a narrow margin and the internet wants to know why Harry didn't show up.
Every time I wonder.
This is a man who his whole life has shown he will score goals if his team will just, you know, try to attack.
And England without fail go out without trying to attack.
To me - the Kane fan - it's madness. Just force the game and try to win 4-2 instead of 1-0.
They'll understand it better when he's gone I think.
Quote from: thewobbler on July 16, 2026, 10:32:47 PMI'm a completely avowed Kane fan.
And I've watched England more closely than an Irishman should for the past 5 tournaments as a result.
It's the same theme every time. England go out go by a narrow margin and the internet wants to know why Harry didn't show up.
Every time I wonder.
This is a man who his whole life has shown he will score goals if his team will just, you know, try to attack.
And England without fail go out without trying to attack.
To me - the Kane fan - it's madness. Just force the game and try to win 4-2 instead of 1-0.
They'll understand it better when he's gone I think.
Such a quality player. If he'd went to a good side earlier and had not bottle job managers/team mates with England he'd be getting talked about as one of the best ever.
I don't think you can say Harry is average or anything other than a top top player, but he certainly went missing the other night..
Be that down to tactics fatigue decision making or whatever it didn't work out and he wasn't on his own, it's a squad and management collapse
Is Kane their best ever player? Striker certainly. Player? Better than Rooney? Darren Anderton?
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 16, 2026, 10:44:17 PMI don't think you can say Harry is average or anything other than a top top player, but he certainly went missing the other night..
Be that down to tactics fatigue decision making or whatever it didn't work out and he wasn't on his own, it's a squad and management collapse
Yep and my continuing point is that if your team doesn't have the ability to create chances, then a centre forward isn't ever the problem.
Had David Clifford been born in Wexford he'd be Matty Forde.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 16, 2026, 10:40:22 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 16, 2026, 10:32:47 PMI'm a completely avowed Kane fan.
And I've watched England more closely than an Irishman should for the past 5 tournaments as a result.
It's the same theme every time. England go out go by a narrow margin and the internet wants to know why Harry didn't show up.
Every time I wonder.
This is a man who his whole life has shown he will score goals if his team will just, you know, try to attack.
And England without fail go out without trying to attack.
To me - the Kane fan - it's madness. Just force the game and try to win 4-2 instead of 1-0.
They'll understand it better when he's gone I think.
Such a quality player. If he'd went to a good side earlier and had not bottle job managers/team mates with England he'd be getting talked about as one of the best ever.
He stayed with Spurs, I mean f*ckimg Spurs. Whether through loyalty or fear, he missed out on major trophies in the premiership and europe.
Let this be a lesson for all up and coming football prospects: Dont sign for Spurs.
Quote from: Puckoon on July 16, 2026, 10:46:45 PMIs Kane their best ever player? Striker certainly. Player? Better than Rooney? Darren Anderton?
Not close to Rooney as a player but performed a lot better for England.
Kane probably their best since 66?
Myself and a friend were having that exact debate in the bar on Saturday before England v Norway. I was saying Rooney and he was saying Kane for who was better. Although I must admit he made a serious argument for Kane. Different types of players tbf, Rooney would have sacrificed a lot of goals for the sake of winning when that United team were properly motoring
Rooney was a far better player in his prime.
Kane is brilliant but has a habit of going missing in the big games (Semi Finals & Finals) for both Spurs and England.
Quote from: gallsman on July 16, 2026, 04:34:33 PMQuote from: DaleCooper on July 16, 2026, 04:30:50 PMAlan Shearer, you are just embarassed for the man at this stage.
He was pretty magnanimous post match. Said that the better team won, without any equivocation or qualification.
As for the final, I can't see any logical, radical reason to pick Argentina, other than the fact they have Messi. Which might be enough.
this will always give them a chance
Quote from: thewobbler on July 16, 2026, 10:32:47 PMI'm a completely avowed Kane fan.
And I've watched England more closely than an Irishman should for the past 5 tournaments as a result.
It's the same theme every time. England go out go by a narrow margin and the internet wants to know why Harry didn't show up.
Every time I wonder.
This is a man who his whole life has shown he will score goals if his team will just, you know, try to attack.
And England without fail go out without trying to attack.
To me - the Kane fan - it's madness. Just force the game and try to win 4-2 instead of 1-0.
They'll understand it better when he's gone I think.
I always thought he was a bit overrated but I admit to being wrong on that one. Brilliant player. Seems to be a decent fella too
Really like Spain but the amount of crying England are doing online it would nearly make me support Argentina! Obviously couldn't begrudge Messi another win either.
Quote from: nrico2006 on July 17, 2026, 12:09:33 AMRooney was a far better player in his prime.
Kane is brilliant but has a habit of going missing in the big games (Semi Finals & Finals) for both Spurs and England.
Rooney scored 1 World Cup goal in 11 appearances so he's hardly a man for the big occasion either (only 1 assist also).
He was great in Euro 2004 but greatly underachieved at Euros and WCs overall.
Rooney was a fantastic player. Whole hearted but could get frustrated easily enough. And it probably wasn't difficult to become frustrated in those England teams.
Quote from: blanketattack on July 17, 2026, 08:56:14 AMQuote from: nrico2006 on July 17, 2026, 12:09:33 AMRooney was a far better player in his prime.
Kane is brilliant but has a habit of going missing in the big games (Semi Finals & Finals) for both Spurs and England.
Rooney scored 1 World Cup goal in 11 appearances so he's hardly a man for the big occasion either (only 1 assist also).
He was great in Euro 2004 but greatly underachieved at Euros and WCs overall.
Good few tournaments Rooney was carrying an injury into if I remember right? 2010 or was it 2012 or possibly both he had been flying and picked up an injury for United and was totally off it.
Rooney was full fit for his last Tournament but had the broken foot and groin strain at one and an ankle injury in the other..
Two cracking players to be fair and different styles so all depends on the style you prefer rather at times the numbers
Gary Neville had him taking corners when he was on the English coaching staff
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 17, 2026, 09:32:16 AMGary Neville had him taking corners when he was on the English coaching staff
Good enough for Messi ;)
Spain when made subs in semi final made like for like substitutions for players and kept sake formation that had got themselves into that position.
England would have been better served having Rashford and Saka coming on to run in behind and exploit the weakness in the Argentina full back positions. They certainly would have got some chances on the break. As others have said Kane became largely redundant given how defensive team was. They would have been as well having Watkins through the middle for last 30 mins given how they ended up setting up. I am sure he would have fancied a 1 v 1 against Otamendi.
Souness came up on my social media feed talking about Declan rice and to a lesser degree Elliot Anderson. He was saying that rice is very much a recycle the ball player and is not a world class player and at 27 that is not going to change but Anderson may have hope. I would say he has a point. Kane is definitely world class but he doesn't have enough to work with and with how little possession they get has to drop back to get it.
England have been the same for years. To control a game you need guys in midfield who can do that - England do not have that and never have. Even the golden boys lampard, scholes and Gerrard couldn't do that without an intelligent foreigner beside them.
Tuchel talked about the DNA of English players, not having the confidence in possession & not having control in midfield. I thought they were valid points. Spain have this & that's why I fancy them on Sunday.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 17, 2026, 09:40:11 AMSouness came up on my social media feed talking about Declan rice and to a lesser degree Elliot Anderson. He was saying that rice is very much a recycle the ball player and is not a world class player and at 27 that is not going to change but Anderson may have hope. I would say he has a point. Kane is definitely world class but he doesn't have enough to work with and with how little possession they get has to drop back to get it.
England have been the same for years. To control a game you need guys in midfield who can do that - England do not have that and never have. Even the golden boys lampard, scholes and Gerrard couldn't do that without an intelligent foreigner beside them.
Criminal that they tried to shoe horn Lampard and Gerrard into that team ahead of Carrick and Scholes.
Mainoo far too good of a player to not get minutes on that team. If he'd any sense he'd head home before the 3rd place shite.
You a united supporter by any chance Armagh18 😄
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 10:03:57 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 17, 2026, 09:40:11 AMSouness came up on my social media feed talking about Declan rice and to a lesser degree Elliot Anderson. He was saying that rice is very much a recycle the ball player and is not a world class player and at 27 that is not going to change but Anderson may have hope. I would say he has a point. Kane is definitely world class but he doesn't have enough to work with and with how little possession they get has to drop back to get it.
England have been the same for years. To control a game you need guys in midfield who can do that - England do not have that and never have. Even the golden boys lampard, scholes and Gerrard couldn't do that without an intelligent foreigner beside them.
Criminal that they tried to shoe horn Lampard and Gerrard into that team ahead of Carrick and Scholes.
Mainoo far too good of a player to not get minutes on that team. If he'd any sense he'd head home before the 3rd place shite.
England teams have always loved a box to box midfielder with a good engine. Carrick didn't fit the system. Any other United players missing from the team? ;D
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 10:03:57 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 17, 2026, 09:40:11 AMSouness came up on my social media feed talking about Declan rice and to a lesser degree Elliot Anderson. He was saying that rice is very much a recycle the ball player and is not a world class player and at 27 that is not going to change but Anderson may have hope. I would say he has a point. Kane is definitely world class but he doesn't have enough to work with and with how little possession they get has to drop back to get it.
England have been the same for years. To control a game you need guys in midfield who can do that - England do not have that and never have. Even the golden boys lampard, scholes and Gerrard couldn't do that without an intelligent foreigner beside them.
Criminal that they tried to shoe horn Lampard and Gerrard into that team ahead of Carrick and Scholes.
Mainoo far too good of a player to not get minutes on that team. If he'd any sense he'd head home before the 3rd place shite.
Anderson will be playing an 8 role at city he won't change his game either. As Amragh18 said Carrick probably best English midfielder for controlling a game in the last 20 years or more but shoe horned in Lampard and Gerrard in 442 so Carrick was largely ignored.
Wilshere could control a midfield but injuries ruined him. Wharton the only current English player imo who could set the pace of a game but needs a big move in the summer. United probably best club for him given they need a 6 - Carrick probably help his development too.
Someone mentioned Tuchel saying players didn't have confidence in possession - Well he picked the players, Foden, Palmer, Mainoo, Wharton, Rogers all good link up players but he didn't use them (Rogers out on the right isn't going to control possession)
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 10:08:10 AMYou a united supporter by any chance Armagh18 😄
The odd day. :D Think I'm right in what I'm saying regardless. Anyway as long as those hoors never figure out how to make the most out of the players they have and continue to fail miserably I'm happy enough
I raised the point re: confidence in possession. As Tuchel said it's not a recent phenomenon. Late 70s / early 80s English clubs dominated Europe but they were brutal 4-4-2 in tournaments. Bryan Robson was a certain starter but he played box-to-box. When fit (which wasn't always) he played with Ray Wilkins, Peter Reid, Trevor Brooking, Steve Hodge or some other journeyman. Glenn Hoddle who was world class was criminally ignored. No one in that era could control the game like Hoddle but he got accusations of laziness thrown at him. Graham Taylor took over in the late 80s & set them back years with his Neanderthal long ball tactics.
Waddle was another sort of flair that they played but were iffy about. Le Tissier was a gifted player but didn't get much of a look in. Maybe Southampton wasn't considered big enough club.
Barnes was a shadow of the player he was for pool
As a few have indicated eng had a rigid 442 system whereas a 433 or 4231 may well have suited some of the players mentioned
correctamundo
If you can ignore the 1970s perm, Kevin Keegan was a great player for England. A lot of that great 70s Liverpool team did not play as well internationally, like Terry McDermott. Some would say same with Steve Heighway for Ireland.
Don't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 10:08:10 AMYou a united supporter by any chance Armagh18 😄
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 10:09:56 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 10:03:57 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 17, 2026, 09:40:11 AMSouness came up on my social media feed talking about Declan rice and to a lesser degree Elliot Anderson. He was saying that rice is very much a recycle the ball player and is not a world class player and at 27 that is not going to change but Anderson may have hope. I would say he has a point. Kane is definitely world class but he doesn't have enough to work with and with how little possession they get has to drop back to get it.
England have been the same for years. To control a game you need guys in midfield who can do that - England do not have that and never have. Even the golden boys lampard, scholes and Gerrard couldn't do that without an intelligent foreigner beside them.
Criminal that they tried to shoe horn Lampard and Gerrard into that team ahead of Carrick and Scholes.
Mainoo far too good of a player to not get minutes on that team. If he'd any sense he'd head home before the 3rd place shite.
England teams have always loved a box to box midfielder with a good engine. Carrick didn't fit the system. Any other United players missing from the team? ;D
The reality is that with Scoles, Lampard, Gerard they were blessed with talent. That's 3 world class players to try and fit in. Carrick was good but more like Henderson. Workrate and doing the simple things right.
Hargreaves played plenty in that era with Scholes/Lampard/Gerrard. He was often played ahead of Carrick when they wanted someone as a holder. Again he would be more in the mould of a work horse rather than someone who can control a match.
Quote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Quote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
He'd a fantastic goal scoring record at a shite Spurs team and no doubt would have broke goal scoring records in England if he'd stayed. He's undoubtedly world class.
Was Tuchel in the same position as Martinez with Portugal (Ronaldo) and not wanting to take Harry Kane off?
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Quote from: marty34 on July 17, 2026, 02:35:30 PMWas Tuchel in the same position as Martinez with Belgium and not wanting to take Harry Kane off?
I would say so. Looked gassed and he tends to get caught in possession a bit in his own half at the best of times. The way things panned out it actually would have been better not start him and spring him fresh from the bench, in GAA style. Imagine the meltdown!!! That would also have required support runners instead of defenders.
Think Tuchel is being FOS BTW trying to explain all the egg away from his face. He picks the players and if keeping possession was needed and is inherently an issue why exacerbate the problem and fill the team with lumbering CHs and leave the team with no outball?
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Listen I really cant be arsed arguing with strangers on tinternet lol so you know what, you're probably right 😄
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 03:41:48 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Listen I really cant be arsed arguing with strangers on tinternet lol so you know what, you're probably right 😄
Sure what did you ever make an account for :D
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 17, 2026, 09:32:16 AMGary Neville had him taking corners when he was on the English coaching staff
Seen Neville give an explanation for this recently. Said Kane and Rooney were the only two who could really whip the ball in with their right foot and Rooney was better in the air so Kane took the corners.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 03:46:54 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 03:41:48 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Listen I really cant be arsed arguing with strangers on tinternet lol so you know what, you're probably right 😄
Sure what did you ever make an account for :D
Anything longer than one or two lines and I cba lol
Sure take you up the reigns and say rashford should've been on ahead of him 😄
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 04:27:13 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 03:46:54 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 03:41:48 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Listen I really cant be arsed arguing with strangers on tinternet lol so you know what, you're probably right 😄
Sure what did you ever make an account for :D
Anything longer than one or two lines and I cba lol
Sure take you up the reigns and say rashford should've been on ahead of him 😄
Chicken shit! ;D Some of the other lads would have made Harry Kane world class/not world class into a multi-day personal feud lasting 10 pages.
🤣🤣 yes I had some points but I choose to keep them to myself 😘
Armagh tastic or 18 will take up the reigns from here 😄
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Henry was better than Kane and also had a better scoring ratio in the PL.
Kane is absolutely world class though. The main criticism I would have with him is his no-shows in finals. There was the CL final and 2 League Cup finals with Spurs where he didn't score, as well as the two Euro finals for England.
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 04:27:13 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 17, 2026, 03:46:54 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 03:41:48 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 17, 2026, 02:53:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 17, 2026, 02:07:01 PMQuote from: ArmaghTastic on July 17, 2026, 01:12:59 PMDon't see Kane being World Class. A good player no doubt but being English he is slightly overrated the same as most English players. His numbers are a bit inflated from playing in the German league imo. Scores plenty of goals for England against lesser nations and plenty of penalties also .
England's best ever player? Not for me he isn't, obviously Gazza is the best player they have ever produced,now he was World Class, now if you're asking who was the best player that done the business for the England national team and not just England's best ever player then yeah Kane has to be up there because of his goals scored record (despite who most of the goals he scored were against poor opponents)but like has been said has gone missing in many of the big games.
Lot of sense in this post
Where? Like him or loathe him, a small amount of research confirms he has the best goal/game ratio of his generation* against the traditional top 5 teams (City, United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea). All coming from a mediocre Spurs team. He is 100% world class.
*And better than Rooney, Henry and Drogba etc. too.
Listen I really cant be arsed arguing with strangers on tinternet lol so you know what, you're probably right 😄
Sure what did you ever make an account for :D
Anything longer than one or two lines and I cba lol
Sure take you up the reigns and say rashford should've been on ahead of him 😄
Too hot for arguing :D
In all seriousness they needed some pace to run in behind or at least give Argentina something to think about when Gordon went off be that Rashford or someone else. Thank feck they made a balls of it.
Kane is definitely a world class goal scorer. The talk about him dropping into midfield and spraying passes like a midfield General is over hyped.
Picture taken for the Barcelona club calendar in 2007. Messi v that Baby on Sunday.
(https://i.ibb.co/tM9bgB7g/FB-IMG-1784235000968.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PZd5Kx7K)
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 17, 2026, 05:28:33 PMPicture taken for the Barcelona club calendar in 2007. Messi v that Baby on Sunday.
(https://i.ibb.co/tM9bgB7g/FB-IMG-1784235000968.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PZd5Kx7K)
That's a very hairy baby
Thought this piece by John Laverty in BelTel yesterday worth a read, painful reminder of some Loyalist atrocities duribg two different world cups while other surreal going ons.
Impossible to forget: The Day a Troubles atrocity reached across the Atlantic to puncture World Cup joy in New York
oi, you northern lads — try keeping us off yer f***ing front pages now!" That was a grinning, bombastic Jack Charlton, barking at me, Jackie Fullerton (BBC) and the late, great Jim Gracey (Sunday Life) in the bowels of the New York Giants stadium after the Republic of Ireland's sensational World Cup win over hot favourites Italy.
Big Jack was suspicious of us "northern" lads in the group — and, indeed, Nordies in general — following the notorious 'Night in November' seven months earlier when Belfast's Windsor Park became a cauldron of relentless, hostile sectarian bigotry inflicted on his visiting team.
Now, however, his football heroes were surely destined for 'positive' headlines on Northern Ireland's front pages. But they didn't get close to it.
Word began filtering through about something terrible that had happened, 3,000 miles away in Co Down.
These were the days before smartphones and online news channels, but it soon became clear there'd been multiple casualties after gunmen had burst into a small, crowded pub where locals had been watching the big match on TV.
We'd eventually learn that Adrian Rogan (34), Patrick O'Hare (35), Eamon Byrne (39), Malcolm Jenkinson (52), Daniel McCreanor (59) and 87-year-old Barney Green — the oldest victim of our despicable, three-decade sectarian conflict — had been murdered by a UVF gang in Loughinisland that night.
(No one has ever been charged, but Special Branch, MI5, the local media and the dogs in the street know exactly who was behind this unforgivably evil act).
Back in the Meadowlands, New Jersey, it was as if someone had switched off the lights at the venue for this weekend's final between Argentina and Spain.
It was eerily quiet on the Republic's Orlando-bound charter plane a couple of hours later, with players clearly cognisant of respecting the victims from "back home".
We reached the team hotel after 2am — in Florida, that's too late for even a nightcap.
So, while Irish people continued to celebrate the stunning 1-0 victory over Baggio and Co elsewhere, their heroes were tucked up in bed.
This put the tin hat on one of the most surreal of weekends. What a mad day Friday, June 17, 1994 was, for starters.
First up, a million New Yorkers lining Broadway to see the Rangers hockey guys parade the Stanley Cup for the first time in 54 years.
Then came news that OJ Simpson — chief suspect following the gruesome murders of his wife and her friend — had failed to surrender himself to police at the appointed time.
The World Gay Games were beginning just across the river in Queens, and there was mounting excitement in Manhattan about that evening's Knicks v Houston Rockets basketball showdown at Madison Square Garden.
Us Nordies, meanwhile, were dining at our 'local' — Kennedy's on West 57th — which was packed with Knicks fans banging tables as their boys went 45-36 up in the second quarter.
Suddenly, the TV picture switched to a white Ford Bronco travelling very slowly along a freeway somewhere...
Never have so many angry Yanks bellowed "what the f**k?" in unison. Panicking, a barman reached for the remote, but no dice; CBS, ABC, Fox and ESPN were all showing the same thing.
It was like a sci-fi movie where the aliens had commandeered all broadcast networks in order to reveal their invasion plans.
(Indeed, that once-in-a-lifetime bar scene is brilliantly recreated in the multi-award-winning Netflix drama The People v OJ Simpson).
The following day, Saturday, June 18, we were in a sun-drenched crowd of over 75,000 in Noo Joisey — rubbing shoulders with Jack Nicholson, Liza Minnelli and John McEnroe.
It was my first World Cup tournament game as a football correspondent, and the last one would also be sullied by an atrocity back home.
July 12, 1998 — another surreal day, this time in Paris. Drama in the Stade de France prior to the showpiece final between hosts France and favourites Brazil, when official team sheets said Ronaldo wouldn't be playing.
The modern-day equivalent would be Lionel Messi suddenly — and with no explanation — being withdrawn from the game's biggest occasion. Utter bedlam ensued, with fellow hacks desperately attempting to ascertain what on earth was going on.
It ultimately transpired that 'R9' had earlier been rushed to hospital with a seizure; rumours have persisted ever since that the Brazilian superstar had been forced to play by the team's influential financial backers.
In any case, he was a shadow of the man who'd illuminated the tournament thus far, and the Brazilians were easily beaten 3-0.
We'd reached the era of 'brick' mobiles by then, and I texted the editor to suggest doing a separate piece on the Parisian drama.
His reply: "Don't bother, we're concentrating on the three kids murdered in Ballymoney this morning..."
Good God, I wasn't remotely aware of that.
The Quinn brothers — Jason (9), Mark (10) and 11-year-old Richard — had burned to death after a Drumcree dispute-inspired UVF firebomb attack at their home.
The following morning, I strolled to a kiosque à journaux to scan the front pages.
Not surprisingly, all except one featured delirious French folk jubilating an epic victory.
The outlier was the Daily Mail, which had pictures of three innocent young Northern Ireland children underneath the banner headline 'Sacrificed on the altar of hate'.
That's a great piece. I remember all events vididly. What a cesspit Norn Iron was then...... sometimes I wonder have we changed much....
Couldn't believe England's tactics after they scored. Crazy to sit that deep with no out ball. Really poor from Tuchel and the players themselves who should have pushed up. Poor tactics and lack of confidence cost them. They needed to go for the jugular when they went a goal up rather than giving Argentina the freedom of the pitch. But they always come up short in tournaments. For a country their size they have consistently underperformed.
Messi has a football IQ of 200, while England retreated he worked out the necessary hack and set about with the minimum of fuss, amazing how much he walks through a game, he's 5 steps ahead and doesn't expend energy he doesn't need to, amazing to watch
Quote from: tiempo on July 18, 2026, 08:45:36 AMMessi has a football IQ of 200, while England retreated he worked out the necessary hack and set about with the minimum of fuss, amazing how much he walks through a game, he's 5 steps ahead and doesn't expend energy he doesn't need to, amazing to watch
Unreal. One of the commentators was saying he looked wrecked at one point when England were leading, I was thinking the man hasn't broke sweat yet he'll have a say some way.
Quote from: Ronnie on July 17, 2026, 11:06:19 PMThat's a great piece. I remember all events vididly. What a cesspit Norn Iron was then...... sometimes I wonder have we changed much....
I was in France inter railing with the girlfriend, now missus. She phoned home one day to be told of the Quinn's murders, horrific..
Have we changed? Hmmm, the underlying sectarian divisions are still there, social media and it's agitators keep stirring the pot, they are being side tracked by this perceived alliance with catholics and Prods fighting against the 'Islamic invaders' which won't overtake the hatred for one another..
We'll get back to verbally hating each other, but thankfully never get back to the physical madness of the troubles
Is this a place where you'd like your children to grow up in? I thought for a while it was, but I'd rather they make a life elsewhere
The English fans meltdown has been glorious. Like a Huns and hearts meltdown combined
Tuchel a very easy scapegoat. Ultimately they just aren't good enough. I think he is bang on with his football iq comments.
A German managing the English national team? Where could it possibly go wrong 🤭
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2026, 11:25:36 AMTuchel a very easy scapegoat. Ultimately they just aren't good enough. I think he is bang on with his football iq comments.
A few minutes before England scored Elliot Anderson played a great crossfield diagonal between the lines, across the ground to Gordon on the wing, proper football, after they scored they strung 5 passes together once, the players retreated, Tuchel's subs and tactical alterations compounded the fear and sense of a systems failure, players and manager both equally complicit, Kane was the anti-Messi for the last 20mins, had a front row seat of a game going on around him, the last 10mins looked like a 10v6 such was the control England willingly handed over
Quote from: tiempo on July 18, 2026, 11:41:57 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2026, 11:25:36 AMTuchel a very easy scapegoat. Ultimately they just aren't good enough. I think he is bang on with his football iq comments.
A few minutes before England scored Elliot Anderson played a great crossfield diagonal between the lines, across the ground to Gordon on the wing, proper football, after they scored they strung 5 passes together once, the players retreated, Tuchel's subs and tactical alterations compounded the fear and sense of a systems failure, players and manager both equally complicit, Kane was the anti-Messi for the last 20mins, had a front row seat of a game going on around him, the last 10mins looked like a 10v6 such was the control England willingly handed over
Yeah he has fixed nothing. He might be correct about the IQ thing but that's not the point nor does it give him a free pass. All his spiel beforehand about his squad selections, and how he picked a team to win against the top teams, just wait and see blah blah blah! Was all hocus pocus in the end. He has changed nothing from why the knighted one moved on. If anything he compounded the issue at the clutch moment. Got them to a semi final fair enough but look at the draw and the teams they got to play. Stephen Kenny would have got them that far TBF with the talent they have. Might even have kept the ball in patches.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2026, 11:25:36 AMTuchel a very easy scapegoat. Ultimately they just aren't good enough. I think he is bang on with his football iq comments.
He has a lot to answer for though.
His game management after the first goal was a disaster area, and when he made the second suite of substitutions in the 83rd minute, he basically forfeited any flexibility in the event Argentina equalised. The number of defenders on the pitch, essentially in headless chickens mode, was probably more responsible for the winner than anything else, as it was a free header where everybody thought somebody was going to mark Fernandez, and in the end nobody did. The withdrawal tactics also freed up Messi, and taking off Rice meant that DePaul had the freedom of the park.
I don't believe England were going to win the World Cup. Spain would have caught them. But while Tuchel may be right about the footballing IQ, its easy to outsource blame, when he was the one who was responsible for the management of a 1-0 lead with 55 minutes to go. Gordon had actually been one of the few players causing difficulty for the Argentine defence, and Bellingham is suited to a more advanced position, which robbed England of any press when he dropped back.
Tuchel takes the majority of the blame for this one, in my view.
His comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Quote from: BigGreenField on July 18, 2026, 01:20:26 PMHis comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Every World Cup produces an England player whose lack of game time sees his public perception outstrip anything he's actually ever done in the game.
In the search for the missing link, they'll do whatever they can to find one.
Mainoo is the clear winner of that award this time.
He's an absolutely nothing player. He carries the ball well, but cannot see a pass, cannot tackle, cannot read the game, cannot cross, cannot time runs into the box.
In many ways he's a bargain basement version of Jude Bellingham, and I do believe he'll be stinking the place out for West Ham or Fulham by next season.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 18, 2026, 01:08:58 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2026, 11:25:36 AMTuchel a very easy scapegoat. Ultimately they just aren't good enough. I think he is bang on with his football iq comments.
He has a lot to answer for though.
His game management after the first goal was a disaster area, and when he made the second suite of substitutions in the 83rd minute, he basically forfeited any flexibility in the event Argentina equalised. The number of defenders on the pitch, essentially in headless chickens mode, was probably more responsible for the winner than anything else, as it was a free header where everybody thought somebody was going to mark Fernandez, and in the end nobody did. The withdrawal tactics also freed up Messi, and taking off Rice meant that DePaul had the freedom of the park.
I don't believe England were going to win the World Cup. Spain would have caught them. But while Tuchel may be right about the footballing IQ, its easy to outsource blame, when he was the one who was responsible for the management of a 1-0 lead with 55 minutes to go. Gordon had actually been one of the few players causing difficulty for the Argentine defence, and Bellingham is suited to a more advanced position, which robbed England of any press when he dropped back.
Tuchel takes the majority of the blame for this one, in my view.
Yeah I'd have to agree. My first thought with his subs was they are completely f****d if Argentina score. It won't even go to penalties.
Argentina had made most of their subs before he made a move and all of their subs before the equalizer. So he essentially saw all of their cards face up. Inviting pressure like that with nobody closing down the spaces in front of the box or out on the flanks was crazy. They needed energy and aggression in those areas. So why leave Kane on? If he was playing all-in to win 1-0, not like he was going to need him for penalties later on. Think he fell between the two tumbling stools.
Quote from: thewobbler on July 18, 2026, 01:28:43 PMQuote from: BigGreenField on July 18, 2026, 01:20:26 PMHis comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Every World Cup produces an England player whose lack of game time sees his public perception outstrip anything he's actually ever done in the game.
In the search for the missing link, they'll do whatever they can to find one.
Mainoo is the clear winner of that award this time.
He's an absolutely nothing player. He carries the ball well, but cannot see a pass, cannot tackle, cannot read the game, cannot cross, cannot time runs into the box.
In many ways he's a bargain basement version of Jude Bellingham, and I do believe he'll be stinking the place out for West Ham or Fulham by next season.
Have you watched the lad play football? It's not a coincidence that United started to look like a proper team when he started playing. He's not the finished article and obviously has weaknesses but he should have been 3rd choice in midfield and probably playing ahead of Rice as he was bucked by the end.
Hopefully comes back to United with a chip on his shoulder and proves his worth. Ironically Trent and Maguire would have been the perfect combo for the last few minutes when England did go behind.
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 18, 2026, 11:22:09 AMThe English fans meltdown has been glorious. Like a Huns and hearts meltdown combined
It's absolutely beautiful. All supporting Spain now because the big bad Argies bullied their boys off the field.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 18, 2026, 01:38:14 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 18, 2026, 01:28:43 PMQuote from: BigGreenField on July 18, 2026, 01:20:26 PMHis comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Every World Cup produces an England player whose lack of game time sees his public perception outstrip anything he's actually ever done in the game.
In the search for the missing link, they'll do whatever they can to find one.
Mainoo is the clear winner of that award this time.
He's an absolutely nothing player. He carries the ball well, but cannot see a pass, cannot tackle, cannot read the game, cannot cross, cannot time runs into the box.
In many ways he's a bargain basement version of Jude Bellingham, and I do believe he'll be stinking the place out for West Ham or Fulham by next season.
Have you watched the lad play football? It's not a coincidence that United started to look like a proper team when he started playing. He's not the finished article and obviously has weaknesses but he should have been 3rd choice in midfield and probably playing ahead of Rice as he was bucked by the end.
Hopefully comes back to United with a chip on his shoulder and proves his worth. Ironically Trent and Maguire would have been the perfect combo for the last few minutes when England did go behind.
I'd agree. No one is bigging him up, just perplexed why he didn't feature at any stage. James had injury problems, Rice was bedridden, Henderson had a broken arm, but he moved everyone around and out of position in the game against Norway, like he was going out of his way not to play Mainoo. So why bring him? Especially with the squad available to him and who he left at home.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 18, 2026, 01:46:15 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 18, 2026, 01:38:14 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 18, 2026, 01:28:43 PMQuote from: BigGreenField on July 18, 2026, 01:20:26 PMHis comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Every World Cup produces an England player whose lack of game time sees his public perception outstrip anything he's actually ever done in the game.
In the search for the missing link, they'll do whatever they can to find one.
Mainoo is the clear winner of that award this time.
He's an absolutely nothing player. He carries the ball well, but cannot see a pass, cannot tackle, cannot read the game, cannot cross, cannot time runs into the box.
In many ways he's a bargain basement version of Jude Bellingham, and I do believe he'll be stinking the place out for West Ham or Fulham by next season.
Have you watched the lad play football? It's not a coincidence that United started to look like a proper team when he started playing. He's not the finished article and obviously has weaknesses but he should have been 3rd choice in midfield and probably playing ahead of Rice as he was bucked by the end.
Hopefully comes back to United with a chip on his shoulder and proves his worth. Ironically Trent and Maguire would have been the perfect combo for the last few minutes when England did go behind.
I'd agree. No one is bigging him up, just perplexed why he didn't feature at any stage. James had injury problems, Rice was bedridden, Henderson had a broken arm, but he moved everyone around and out of position in the game against Norway, like he was going out of his way not to play Mainoo. So why bring him? Especially with the squad available to him and who he left at home.
Talk of Tuchel having a spite against United since they were in talks with him about replacing Ten Hag and backed out.
Ah jaysus. First grealish now this. This is good entertainment today boys
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 18, 2026, 02:23:55 PMAh jaysus. First grealish now this. This is good entertainment today boys
Ah look sure theres feck all else to be at
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 18, 2026, 02:09:18 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 18, 2026, 01:46:15 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 18, 2026, 01:38:14 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 18, 2026, 01:28:43 PMQuote from: BigGreenField on July 18, 2026, 01:20:26 PMHis comments are correct for the players on the pitch, he had though Mainoo sitting kicking his heels, the one player who can actually play the game he wanted.
He left grealish at home, Englands one maverick. Even Maguire probably should have been there as a footballing centre half.
He has improved them however also gotten it wrong.
Every World Cup produces an England player whose lack of game time sees his public perception outstrip anything he's actually ever done in the game.
In the search for the missing link, they'll do whatever they can to find one.
Mainoo is the clear winner of that award this time.
He's an absolutely nothing player. He carries the ball well, but cannot see a pass, cannot tackle, cannot read the game, cannot cross, cannot time runs into the box.
In many ways he's a bargain basement version of Jude Bellingham, and I do believe he'll be stinking the place out for West Ham or Fulham by next season.
Have you watched the lad play football? It's not a coincidence that United started to look like a proper team when he started playing. He's not the finished article and obviously has weaknesses but he should have been 3rd choice in midfield and probably playing ahead of Rice as he was bucked by the end.
Hopefully comes back to United with a chip on his shoulder and proves his worth. Ironically Trent and Maguire would have been the perfect combo for the last few minutes when England did go behind.
I'd agree. No one is bigging him up, just perplexed why he didn't feature at any stage. James had injury problems, Rice was bedridden, Henderson had a broken arm, but he moved everyone around and out of position in the game against Norway, like he was going out of his way not to play Mainoo. So why bring him? Especially with the squad available to him and who he left at home.
Talk of Tuchel having a spite against United since they were in talks with him about replacing Ten Hag and backed out.
lol next you be saying he took Rashford to piss off the United supporters.
The whole thing is deliciously hilarious, conspiracy theories aside. Apparently Talksport was carnage.
Despite their inbuilt arrogance you can see their point. Okay, no one on here really believed they're good enough to win without gigantic sized portion of luck, but there's a way to lose too. Imploding against the Argies like that would be the equivalent of us doing the same against Costa Rica. "Heroically" hanging on against Mexico, best in 60 yrs according to some of them, be like us against Burkina Faso. We wouldn't be happy.
Look at Scotland too. Getting knocked out in the group stage was always a possibility but how they went about it was pathetic. All that hard work to get there and they go out, running from their own shadow. Should have stayed at home.
What's with the constant British 'Argies' tag craic on here?
2 of the English players going for over 100m this summer. Anderson and Rogers. Lunacy.
Kane or Bellingham not be happy at not getting a chance at the golden boot
Not that I give a shiny shite but watkins won't be impressed falling behind toney in the pecking order
Eng one up. Bollocks. I've 20 on france with the bro
Tuchel might put on some defenders here and try to see out this match now
QuoteKane or Bellingham not be happy at not getting a chance at the golden boot
Bellingham should win the golden bell-end though
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 18, 2026, 10:03:43 PMNot that I give a shiny shite but watkins won't be impressed falling behind toney in the pecking order
Eng one up. Bollocks. I've 20 on france with the bro
You've to nearly 12.00
Wouldn't panic yet
The bronze is coming home.
England 1-0 up. 6 minutes gone
Time for 6 defenders me thinks
Quote from: square_ball on July 18, 2026, 10:07:22 PMThe bronze is coming home.
Would happily have taken that with 6 mins to go the other night.
They'll win the World Cup playing like this... Ohhh wait
Has Tuchel stumbled onto a better starting 11 or a case that France couldn't care less about this game?
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 18, 2026, 10:06:04 PMQuote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 18, 2026, 10:03:43 PMNot that I give a shiny shite but watkins won't be impressed falling behind toney in the pecking order
Eng one up. Bollocks. I've 20 on france with the bro
You've to nearly 12.00
Wouldn't panic yet
Mbappe hattrick I beg
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 18, 2026, 10:21:13 PMHas Tuchel stumbled onto a better starting 11 or a case that France couldn't care less about this game?
The French dont give a fcuk here.
QuoteHas Tuchel stumbled onto a better starting 11 or a case that France couldn't care less about this game?
France have rolled over and surrendered. Not for the first time
Maybe get tuchel another four years here ;D
(I suspect he will go but the bigger problem is they're not good enough...)
Only three powerade breaks left in this World Cup.
Would France not be better with 2 up front.
QuoteWould France not be better with 2 up front.
They'd get no space against England's back 8
If only ;D
France are shambolic here would thought would wanted get Mbappe the golden boot and get Deschamps to go out on a bit of a high.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 18, 2026, 10:30:53 PMWould France not be better with 2 up front.
Or might be better with a few defenders as well.
3-0 to England.
Embarrassing from the French.
Saka fell over and still able to get up and score the 3rd.
If ever there was a half of football to show this nonsense game should be scrapped this is it.
France like cork hurlers. They'll. either steam roll you or throw in the towel when it gets tough...
The third-place match results at every World Cup.
2022: Croatia 2 Morocco 1
2018: Belgium 2 England 0
2014: Netherlands 3 Brazil 0
2010: Germany 3 Uruguay 2
2006: Germany 3 Portugal 1
2002: Turkey 3 South Korea 2
1998: Croatia 2 Netherlands 1
1994: Sweden 4 Bulgaria 0
1990: Italy 2 England 1
1986: France 4 Belgium 2
1982: Poland 3 France 2
1978: Brazil 2 Italy 1
1974: Poland 1 Brazil 0
1970: West Germany 1 Uruguay 0
1966: Portugal 2 Soviet Union 1
1962: Chile 1 Yugoslavia 0
1958: France 6 West Germany 3
1954: Austria 3 Uruguay 1
1938: Brazil 4, Sweden 2
1934: Germany 3, Austria 2
Quote from: statto on July 18, 2026, 10:43:05 PMIf ever there was a half of football to show this nonsense game should be scrapped this is it.
Saka sat on his arse for a bit and still had time to get up and score.
France have checked out.
England are England - performing when the pressure is off.
Doing the fast counter - 3 days to late.
4-0 now.
I'd say the French were polishing off bottles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for breakfast. When you're making Saka look like a greyhound.
Checked out or not.. 4-0 is an embarrassment
That's a classy goal
Commentator: "The frustration is...."
Quote from: statto on July 18, 2026, 10:43:05 PMIf ever there was a half of football to show this nonsense game should be scrapped this is it.
It's a glorified friendly!!! France couldn't care less and now England are the greatest thing since sliced bread again. 😀😀
Bbc commentators are creaming it here
They do know they're out ?
Didn't watch it as it's a dead rubber but f**k me you need to put some effort in when pulling on your country's colours.
Sacre bleu!
Quote from: thebuzz on July 18, 2026, 10:49:51 PMQuote from: statto on July 18, 2026, 10:43:05 PMIf ever there was a half of football to show this nonsense game should be scrapped this is it.
It's a glorified friendly!!! France couldn't care less and now England are the greatest thing since sliced bread again. 😀😀
Like most of the qualifiers
Glorified friendlies against shite opposition
QuoteSacre bleu!
Champs Elysées!
France goalkeeper from Temu lol, Good job we werent relying on them in the final, always been a flaky outfit when put up to them.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 18, 2026, 10:44:47 PMQuote from: statto on July 18, 2026, 10:43:05 PMIf ever there was a half of football to show this nonsense game should be scrapped this is it.
Saka sat on his arse for a bit and still had time to get up and score.
Martin Keown trying to tell the nation what a brilliant goal it was. The back four all ten yards in England half wouldn't see it in the park on a Sunday.
Then this assistant manager near in tears at half time it's actually quite comical.
Proof that 3rd place play-off is as pointless as an ashtray on a motorbike. Fcuk me, which Dublin and Louth players would want to turn out for a 3rd place AI match?
You crying about 3rd place play-off, its been there forever, just as in Rugby.
QuoteProof that 3rd place play-off is as pointless as an ashtray on a motorbike. Fcuk me, which Dublin and Louth players would want to turn out for a 3rd place AI match?
Louth Dublin have already met. Draw needed
Quote from: Armagh4sam2024 on July 18, 2026, 10:58:38 PMProof that 3rd place play-off is as pointless as an ashtray on a motorbike. Fcuk me, which Dublin and Louth players would want to turn out for a 3rd place AI match?
Silver and bronze are definitely very much a real thing in the Olympics but in the World Cup second and third mean sweet f**k all!!!
4-1
Comeback is on
Comeback has started 1-4
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 18, 2026, 11:01:43 PMYou crying about 3rd place play-off, its been there forever, just as in Rugby.
Just because it's been there forever doesn't mean it adds any value to the tournament.
Extortionate ticket prices, players who don't give a f**k and all they want to do is get their summer holiday before going back to their clubs.
Please just please.
Sh1t has just got interesting....
France back in it without the need of a strong wind and two pointers.
Hold your horses folks!
3-4 very much game on now.
I think they phoned Oisin McConville at half time for a speech to get the blue team winning
England have 10 men behind the ball again.
France missed 3 absolute sitters!!
Penalty to England. Scored 5-3, will that end the French comeback?
Did anyone back over 7.5 8.5 9.5 goals?
4-5 with a little over a minute to play.
6-4 most goals ever in a 3rd place World Cup match.
Alan Hansen be proud of these defences lol
English hatred aside wouldn't it be great if football was like this all the time..
QuoteEnglish hatred aside wouldn't it be great if football was like this all the time..
That's the dilutin orange talking
I did tell you lads that England v France would have been the most interesting final. Won't be any surprise should Spain and Argentina be a bit of borefest tomorrow night.
Joke of a match..
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 12:03:54 AMQuoteEnglish hatred aside wouldn't it be great if football was like this all the time..
That's the dilutin orange talking
*Apple flavoured
QuoteI did tell you lads that England v France would have been the most interesting final. Won't be any surprise should Spain and Argentina be a bit of borefest tomorrow night.
I don't really care. England are in no danger of winning it now , and that's all that matters.
I have my preference for both winning it tomorrow, but not bothered either way
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2026, 12:05:28 AMI did tell you lads that England v France would have been the most interesting final. Won't be any surprise should Spain and Argentina be a bit of borefest tomorrow night.
There's not a hope in hell that an England-France final would have been anything like that game. A few goals maybe, but that was a glorified friendly with nothing at stake and it showed in the complete lack of defending and tackling.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 12:17:33 AMQuoteI did tell you lads that England v France would have been the most interesting final. Won't be any surprise should Spain and Argentina be a bit of borefest tomorrow night.
I don't really care. England are in no danger of winning it now , and that's all that matters.
I have my preference for both winning it tomorrow, but not bothered either way
I have nothing against the team. It's the media I can't stand. They would be insufferable if England had got through to the final. I had a bad day at work on Wednesday and when they went 1-0 up I was even more sickened but the relief when they lost was unbelievable. I don't care who wins tomorrow either.
Do you really think that if Feancd and England got to the final it would have been 6-4. Enough said
The English media are actually reading something into that game. Will they ever learn? That was a training session.
Judes goal was top drawer, regardless of the nature of the game, he may be a bell end, but he's a quality footballer. Unfortunately for him though his arrogance is what others will remember him by
Quote from: Pub Bore on July 19, 2026, 08:33:05 AMThe English media are actually reading something into that game. Will they ever learn? That was a training session.
BBC online said it was an all-time World Cuo classic.
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 19, 2026, 08:41:28 AMJudes goal was top drawer, regardless of the nature of the game, he may be a bell end, but he's a quality footballer. Unfortunately for him though his arrogance is what others will remember him by
Jude??😲
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 08:43:44 AMQuote from: Pub Bore on July 19, 2026, 08:33:05 AMThe English media are actually reading something into that game. Will they ever learn? That was a training session.
BBC online said it was an all-time World Cuo classic.
They said Saka was the first Eng player to score a hat trick in a "WC knockout game" since Geoff Hurst. Sorry, weren't both teams already knocked out??
They maybe said knockedout game 🤭😆
Quote from: thebuzz on July 19, 2026, 12:32:23 AMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 12:17:33 AMQuoteI did tell you lads that England v France would have been the most interesting final. Won't be any surprise should Spain and Argentina be a bit of borefest tomorrow night.
I don't really care. England are in no danger of winning it now , and that's all that matters.
I have my preference for both winning it tomorrow, but not bothered either way
I have nothing against the team. It's the media I can't stand. They would be insufferable if England had got through to the final. I had a bad day at work on Wednesday and when they went 1-0 up I was even more sickened but the relief when they lost was unbelievable. I don't care who wins tomorrow either.
Do you not think RTE would be the same if we were within a farts sniff of a World Cup? We're still dining out on a fluke QF appearance over 30 years ago like.
They're putting some spin on winning that game last night.
In fairness, it is England's best finish in a WC since 1966. They fouled up in the semi, but overall that is another baby-step towards where they need to be.
Would you bet against them winning Euro 2028 on home soil? For those hate-watching England the day is coming where they will have to deal with England winning something.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:21:34 AMIn fairness, it is England's best finish in a WC since 1966. They fouled up in the semi, but overall that is another baby-step towards where they need to be.
Would you bet against them winning Euro 2028 on home soil? For those hate-watching England the day is coming where they will have to deal with England winning something.
They're in the same place as they were in 2018. Doddling along and made wee boys out of against the first good team they meet. In fact they've probably gone backwards since given they struggled in every knock out game.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 10:26:37 AMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:21:34 AMIn fairness, it is England's best finish in a WC since 1966. They fouled up in the semi, but overall that is another baby-step towards where they need to be.
Would you bet against them winning Euro 2028 on home soil? For those hate-watching England the day is coming where they will have to deal with England winning something.
They're in the same place as they were in 2018. Doddling along and made wee boys out of against the first good team they meet. In fact they've probably gone backwards since given they struggled in every knock out game.
2018 was a matter of pure luck of the draw (and a very fortunate catalyst for English football). They managed to get to 4th place by beating Tunisia, Panama and Sweden, and a declining Colombian team on penalties). They lost three matches in the tournament and it was no surprise when Croatia (who beat them handily enough) were caned by France in the final. In 2026 they lost one game, that they could have won with some minor tweaks in terms of substitutions and tactics. Previous teams would have folded to Norway or Mexico, or would have lost it mentally after Ghana.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:34:58 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 10:26:37 AMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:21:34 AMIn fairness, it is England's best finish in a WC since 1966. They fouled up in the semi, but overall that is another baby-step towards where they need to be.
Would you bet against them winning Euro 2028 on home soil? For those hate-watching England the day is coming where they will have to deal with England winning something.
They're in the same place as they were in 2018. Doddling along and made wee boys out of against the first good team they meet. In fact they've probably gone backwards since given they struggled in every knock out game.
2018 was a matter of pure luck of the draw (and a very fortunate catalyst for English football). They managed to get to 4th place by beating Tunisia, Panama and Sweden, and a declining Colombian team on penalties). They lost three matches in the tournament and it was no surprise when Croatia (who beat them handily enough) were caned by France in the final. In 2026 they lost one game, that they could have won with some minor tweaks in terms of substitutions and tactics. Previous teams would have folded to Norway or Mexico, or would have lost it mentally after Ghana.
They'll always always have that bottler mentality.
Kane likely won't make another World Cup and won't be the player he was. Their centre backs are shite as is their goalkeeper. France, Spain, Portugal (as long as Ronaldo goes) will all be well ahead of them come 2028.
Since 1996, England haven't really beat anyone of note in a World cup knockout . When they come up against a top team, they rarely, if ever beat them.
Lost to:
Argentina
Brazil
Portugal
Germany
Croatia
France
Argentina
Beat:
Denmark
Ecuador
Colombia (pens)
Sweden
Senegal
DR Congo
Mexico
Norway
In the Euros, not much better either. Only wins v Germany 2020 and Netherlands 2024 , but both sides were a pale shadow of their former sides
Beat :
Spain (pens)
Germany
Ukraine
Denmark
Slovakia
Switzerland (pens)
Netherlands
Lost to:
Germany (pens)
Portugal (pens)
Italy (pens)
Iceland
Italy (pens)
Spain
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 10:38:10 AMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:34:58 AMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 10:26:37 AMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 10:21:34 AMIn fairness, it is England's best finish in a WC since 1966. They fouled up in the semi, but overall that is another baby-step towards where they need to be.
Would you bet against them winning Euro 2028 on home soil? For those hate-watching England the day is coming where they will have to deal with England winning something.
They're in the same place as they were in 2018. Doddling along and made wee boys out of against the first good team they meet. In fact they've probably gone backwards since given they struggled in every knock out game.
2018 was a matter of pure luck of the draw (and a very fortunate catalyst for English football). They managed to get to 4th place by beating Tunisia, Panama and Sweden, and a declining Colombian team on penalties). They lost three matches in the tournament and it was no surprise when Croatia (who beat them handily enough) were caned by France in the final. In 2026 they lost one game, that they could have won with some minor tweaks in terms of substitutions and tactics. Previous teams would have folded to Norway or Mexico, or would have lost it mentally after Ghana.
They'll always always have that bottler mentality.
Kane likely won't make another World Cup and won't be the player he was. Their centre backs are shite as is their goalkeeper. France, Spain, Portugal (as long as Ronaldo goes) will all be well ahead of them come 2028.
They'll have that mentality until they wont. I know its not the same sport, but in GAA Dublin were the annual bottlers. Wayne McCarthy dropping a 45 against Kerry (2001), Cosgrove's free off the post (2002), Cluxton's red card when five up against Armagh (2003), the 2006 Mayo debacle, running Kerry to two points (2007) Tyrone in the rain (2008), startled earwings (2009).
The likes of Bellingham will only get better, and they conveyor belt will continue producing players that have taken England from dropping out in the Group stage (2014) and losing to Iceland (2016) to third in the World.
But for the regressive tactics on Wednesday, they could be preparing for a final today.
I doubt Kane will be at another WC, maybe not even another Euros. His goals carried them through quite a few matches.
Who will take over from him? I don't see any real obvious replacement. Bellingham has goals in him , but he was anonymous for long stretches in the tournament. Nobody else really stood up. Few big game players in there
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 10:44:45 AMSince 1996, England haven't really beat anyone of note in a World cup knockout . When they come up against a top team, they rarely, if ever beat them.
Lost to:
Argentina
Brazil
Portugal
Germany
Croatia
France
Argentina
Beat:
Denmark
Ecuador
Colombia (pens)
Sweden
Senegal
DR Congo
Mexico
Norway
In the Euros, not much better either. Only wins v Germany 2020 and Netherlands 2024 , but both sides were a pale shadow of their former sides
Beat :
Spain (pens)
Germany
Ukraine
Denmark
Slovakia
Switzerland (pens)
Netherlands
Lost to:
Germany (pens)
Portugal (pens)
Italy (pens)
Iceland
Italy (pens)
Spain
A lot has changed over the past 30 years. Not least if you look between 1994-2016 their best finishes were as Quarter Finalists in the WC. On a couple of occasions they didnt qualify for major tournaments, on another couple of occasions they also fell at the first hurdle (group stage). The nadir was Iceland beating them in 2016. Now they are qualifying for finals, and placing highly at World Cups. They have also broken to hoodoo (to an extent) in relation to penalty kicks.
They had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
Who knows? Spain, I suspect not. Portugal and Belgium, yes. France, well we dont know how good they were because they were never tested (and it was assumed that they were streets ahead of everybody, until they werent).
Spain were the only team who didn't have a route that could be considered "favourable".
Shows how much quality these teams have when they are not dying to win/under high pressure they score ten goals at their leisure.
Fancy Argentina 2-1 purely down to the energy and will to win for their talisman.
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Great tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
They'd have beaten both Belgium and Portugal, little doubt in my mind over it. Two pretty poor teams in the overall scheme of things this time around.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
Tuchel's contract was only for the WC , but they extended it just before the tournament .
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:37:27 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Portugal were very beatable, had a poor World Cup and left Ronaldo on regardless of his contribution. Martinez is vastly over-rated as a manager. England beat Portugal 9/10 times. Belgium while decent are running on fumes. France may well be over-rated. They have some of the best players in the World in the team, but what you saw from Olise last night was symptomatic of his whole World Cup. Over the course of the tournament he had twenty shots and scored nothing. Rabiot is a total mystery, but has a reputation that simply doesnt match his ability. Digne is and was a liability.
Spain are the only team I would say, with confidence would make light work of England.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 12:54:19 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:37:27 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Portugal were very beatable, had a poor World Cup and left Ronaldo on regardless of his contribution. Martinez is vastly over-rated as a manager. England beat Portugal 9/10 times. Belgium while decent are running on fumes. France may well be over-rated. They have some of the best players in the World in the team, but what you saw from Olise last night was symptomatic of his whole World Cup. Over the course of the tournament he had twenty shots and scored nothing. Rabiot is a total mystery, but has a reputation that simply doesnt match his ability. Digne is and was a liability.
Spain are the only team I would say, with confidence would make light work of England.
Thankfully it's all hypothetical.
On tonight I've a feeling Argentina will dog their way to another one.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:56:27 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 12:54:19 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:37:27 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Portugal were very beatable, had a poor World Cup and left Ronaldo on regardless of his contribution. Martinez is vastly over-rated as a manager. England beat Portugal 9/10 times. Belgium while decent are running on fumes. France may well be over-rated. They have some of the best players in the World in the team, but what you saw from Olise last night was symptomatic of his whole World Cup. Over the course of the tournament he had twenty shots and scored nothing. Rabiot is a total mystery, but has a reputation that simply doesnt match his ability. Digne is and was a liability.
Spain are the only team I would say, with confidence would make light work of England.
Thankfully it's all hypothetical.
On tonight I've a feeling Argentina will dog their way to another one.
Hypothetical yes, but I still maintain England are getting there or there abouts. It may not be 'coming home' in the immediate term, but I think in the longer run people ought to brace themselves.
I do hope Spain win. They have been consistently strong, had the hardest run to the final, and will knock Trump etc off his perch a bit.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
Lots of them will lap it up. Personally I don't think he can expect to stay on. He has serious questions to answer for. Selection and use of the squad was horrific IMO. Serious competition there, excess players that any country would be very glad of and he makes picks that he had no intention of ever playing. Not like they were ever under any serious pressure in the groups where he couldn't rotate. Plus with some of the injuries and bugs players had. So he knowingly went with a reduced squad to a major tournament just to what, grandstand to the media? That speaks of an ego that will not change. Actually, they're probably well met when you think of it.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 12:59:30 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:56:27 PMQuote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 12:54:19 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:37:27 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Portugal were very beatable, had a poor World Cup and left Ronaldo on regardless of his contribution. Martinez is vastly over-rated as a manager. England beat Portugal 9/10 times. Belgium while decent are running on fumes. France may well be over-rated. They have some of the best players in the World in the team, but what you saw from Olise last night was symptomatic of his whole World Cup. Over the course of the tournament he had twenty shots and scored nothing. Rabiot is a total mystery, but has a reputation that simply doesnt match his ability. Digne is and was a liability.
Spain are the only team I would say, with confidence would make light work of England.
Thankfully it's all hypothetical.
On tonight I've a feeling Argentina will dog their way to another one.
Hypothetical yes, but I still maintain England are getting there or there abouts. It may not be 'coming home' in the immediate term, but I think in the longer run people ought to brace themselves.
I do hope Spain win. They have been consistently strong, had the hardest run to the final, and will knock Trump etc off his perch a bit.
Ah theres only so many big teams in the world/europe that'll ever win it so they'll probably get their day at some point, for now we'll enjoy the bottle job.
Agree on Spain although wouldn't begrudge Messi at all.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 01:17:29 PMPersonally I don't think he can expect to stay on
They extended his contract months ago, so he absolutely can.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
I'm lost with this Mainoo love in. No idea why anyone has such a high opinion of him that he should have got on. I doubt he would have made any difference. He's not a game changer in any sense.
Could he have gotten a few minutes, potentially, but no big shock that he didn't either. Plus, Tuchel is seeing more of him than anyone else over last few weeks and obviously didn't fancy him.
If he did tell him to F.O (which I highly doubt), then he's a clown.
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 19, 2026, 02:46:28 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
I'm lost with this Mainoo love in. No idea why anyone has such a high opinion of him that he should have got on. I doubt he would have made any difference. He's not a game changer in any sense.
Could he have gotten a few minutes, potentially, but no big shock that he didn't either. Plus, Tuchel is seeing more of him than anyone else over last few weeks and obviously didn't fancy him.
If he did tell him to F.O (which I highly doubt), then he's a clown.
Don't see any Mainoo love in, certainly not me any. Just pointing out the obvious flaw of not bringing midfield options to a tournament. Jordan Henderson, who can't safely navigate a sign and the Manioo you describe above. That's fully on Tuchel.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 03:24:24 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 19, 2026, 02:46:28 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
I'm lost with this Mainoo love in. No idea why anyone has such a high opinion of him that he should have got on. I doubt he would have made any difference. He's not a game changer in any sense.
Could he have gotten a few minutes, potentially, but no big shock that he didn't either. Plus, Tuchel is seeing more of him than anyone else over last few weeks and obviously didn't fancy him.
If he did tell him to F.O (which I highly doubt), then he's a clown.
Don't see any Mainoo love in, certainly not me any. Just pointing out the obvious flaw of not bringing midfield options to a tournament. Jordan Henderson, who can't safely navigate a sign and the Manioo you describe above. That's fully on Tuchel.
If he'd had the 6 months he just did at United for Forest or Brighton he'd have been signed for £100m plus by now by United or Coty
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
If this is true good 6 months for him between that and the brother wearing that stupid t-shirt when Amorim was United Manager. Saw a clip of a podcast where Nicky Butt was advising him to go home. What age is the lad 20? Bide your time couldn't get a game in a poor united team 6 months ago you could play in another four world cups if he's as good as he and his brother seems to think.
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 19, 2026, 12:54:19 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:37:27 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 12:08:48 PMThey had a favourable route to the final like in 2018 but blew it again. Would they have beaten any of Portugal, Spain, Belgium or France had they met each other in an earlier knockout round?
I don't think they'd have beat any of those. France in a proper game tank them, Spain would have destroyed then. The other maybe a toss up.
Portugal were very beatable, had a poor World Cup and left Ronaldo on regardless of his contribution. Martinez is vastly over-rated as a manager. England beat Portugal 9/10 times. Belgium while decent are running on fumes. France may well be over-rated. They have some of the best players in the World in the team, but what you saw from Olise last night was symptomatic of his whole World Cup. Over the course of the tournament he had twenty shots and scored nothing. Rabiot is a total mystery, but has a reputation that simply doesnt match his ability. Digne is and was a liability.
Spain are the only team I would say, with confidence would make light work of England.
Don't know if Martinez is highly rated, think it's generally known he's a bit of a bluffer and that his agent is top quality.
Man said eng beat Portugal 9/10 times 🤭
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 19, 2026, 04:23:50 PMMan said eng beat Portugal 9/10 times 🤭
And I stand by that.
One of the weakest Irish team's in living memory fell just short of taking 4 points off them in qualification late last year. They had a poor World Cup, and in a like for like were very lucky to beat a Croatia side that England made very light work of.
I couldnt understand how anybody rated Portugal.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 03:24:24 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 19, 2026, 02:46:28 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
I'm lost with this Mainoo love in. No idea why anyone has such a high opinion of him that he should have got on. I doubt he would have made any difference. He's not a game changer in any sense.
Could he have gotten a few minutes, potentially, but no big shock that he didn't either. Plus, Tuchel is seeing more of him than anyone else over last few weeks and obviously didn't fancy him.
If he did tell him to F.O (which I highly doubt), then he's a clown.
Don't see any Mainoo love in, certainly not me any. Just pointing out the obvious flaw of not bringing midfield options to a tournament. Jordan Henderson, who can't safely navigate a sign and the Manioo you describe above. That's fully on Tuchel.
Yeah agree about some of the selections for the squad. There's been a very evident focus on Mainoo from some United supporters who think he would have made a difference. I just don't see it.
Quote from: trueblue1234 on July 19, 2026, 05:25:56 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 03:24:24 PMQuote from: trueblue1234 on July 19, 2026, 02:46:28 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 19, 2026, 12:43:05 PMQuote from: Look-Up! on July 19, 2026, 12:39:11 PMGreat tussle in store tonight. Will be a tight, tense and probably very needley affair.
Stark contrast to last night, very open game, type of game to showcase the very obvious talents England have. But it's nothing we didn't already know, if this team gets time and space they will punish you. They'll also easily qualify for any upcoming major tournaments. Bit of a pointless match all the same considering what both teams have been through lately.
Few English lads saying Mainoo was asked to tog out but he told Tuchel to FO. Make of that what you want.
Don't blame him one bit if he did. Wonder will that win get the dopes back on side with Tuchel or will they still want him gone.
I'm lost with this Mainoo love in. No idea why anyone has such a high opinion of him that he should have got on. I doubt he would have made any difference. He's not a game changer in any sense.
Could he have gotten a few minutes, potentially, but no big shock that he didn't either. Plus, Tuchel is seeing more of him than anyone else over last few weeks and obviously didn't fancy him.
If he did tell him to F.O (which I highly doubt), then he's a clown.
Don't see any Mainoo love in, certainly not me any. Just pointing out the obvious flaw of not bringing midfield options to a tournament. Jordan Henderson, who can't safely navigate a sign and the Manioo you describe above. That's fully on Tuchel.
Yeah agree about some of the selections for the squad. There's been a very evident focus on Mainoo from some United supporters who think he would have made a difference. I just don't see it.
Maybe some have club bias, I don't. Follow sport in general, don't support a PL team. I'm not focusing on Mainoo per say, just the central midfield issues they have. He brought Mainoo, no one else. Compounded with the Henderson selection/injury, Rice being under the weather and James who can makeshift cover having injury concerns. Seems crazy to have brought him if not a playing option.
This one is hard to call. Messi has 8 goals and 4 assists at this world cup. Yemal has one goal(a tap in). I still beleive in Yemal and think Spain will take the title. However I would love to see Messi go back to back at this tournament.
She's not singing this live right?
Christ what an absolute hatchetjob .
Whos the old man with white hair? lmao wtf
Well that was f**king cringe
If Iran want to do something I can think we can give them a pass...
Robbie miming. I'm embarrassed for him
Tom f**king Cruise 🙄
Tom Cruise takes the biscuit altogether.
Hopefully we get our game back after all this is over 🙈
You'd think being in a World Cup final the Spanish players might have sang their national anthem... 🎣
G this a long lead up!
Do they usually play the host national anthem before the world cup final?
Also Tom Cruise, don't get me wrong I generally like his films but why is he addressing the crowd here?
Cant Remember!
Quote from: Mourne Red on July 19, 2026, 07:59:45 PMYou'd think being in a World Cup final the Spanish players might have sang their national anthem... 🎣
There are no words to the Spanish anthem
Joke
Austins head 😜
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2026, 07:52:45 PMTom Cruise takes the biscuit altogether.
Christ, but Americans are so F***kin annoying.
Argentina playing in a similar manner to how they played for the first 55 minutes against England.
The fact there were more comments on here about the pre match entertainment than the match itself sums up how it's going.
How many shots in near 50mins
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 19, 2026, 08:53:21 PMHow many shots in near 50mins
3 with two on target all from Spain. The half time show might be better?
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 19, 2026, 08:55:54 PMQuote from: Wildweasel74 on July 19, 2026, 08:53:21 PMHow many shots in near 50mins
3 with two on target all from Spain. The half time show might be better?
Unless Diana Ross has a Cameo....
Predictable borefest so far. Would be no 6-4 match like last night however France v England would have been a far more interesting and entertaining Final.
Spain know how to manipulate the ball but they aren't a great watch and haven't been most of tournament.
Quote from: statto on July 19, 2026, 08:58:46 PMSpain know how to manipulate the ball but they aren't a great watch and haven't been most of tournament.
Yup incredibly effective but not great to watch
As always, such a game needed an early goal. Start second half may do now
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2026, 08:57:51 PMPredictable borefest so far. Would be no 6-4 match like last night however France v England would have been a far more interesting and entertaining Final.
England v nobody in this f**king planet would've been more interesting or entertaining
Wtf is this?
Would they ever f**k off with this shite! Ronaldo (the real one) in a shell suit ;D
Feck me, this half time show is embarrassing
I think I'd rather watch England win the World Cup than this shite at half time.. What the f**k
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 09:05:00 PMWtf is this?
Looks like a dream I had once after eating too much cheese
Soccer fans should be affronted at whats become of their sport
This half time show so bad it's laughable.
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 09:05:00 PMWtf is this?
Ronaldo and Ronaldinho driving Madonna in a jeep.
So what?
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 19, 2026, 09:00:40 PMQuote from: statto on July 19, 2026, 08:58:46 PMSpain know how to manipulate the ball but they aren't a great watch and haven't been most of tournament.
Yup incredibly effective but not great to watch
As always, such a game needed an early goal. Start second half may do now
First goal will need to be scored by Argentina I feel as this Spain side aren't going to go into their shell like England did when a goal ahead.
Quote from: Brendan on July 19, 2026, 09:08:51 PMSoccer fans should be affronted at whats become of their sport
Let's blame America and Trump/Infanino.
Easy solved
Don't watch
Yous are too nosey
I had to call the wife down to watch. FFS bonkers. The games gone I tell you.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 09:09:58 PMQuote from: Brendan on July 19, 2026, 09:08:51 PMSoccer fans should be affronted at whats become of their sport
Let's blame America and Trump/Infanino.
I spoke too soon...Shakira has appeared
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 19, 2026, 09:09:11 PMQuote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 09:05:00 PMWtf is this?
Ronaldo and Ronaldinho driving Madonna in a jeep.
So what?
I suppose it's something you don't see everyday lol.
Absolute nonsense. Is Trump in the stadium?
You think this is bad , wait until you see the trophy presentation
Shakira still looking well for near 50 years of age.
Quote from: Hoof Hearted on July 19, 2026, 09:10:24 PMEasy solved
Don't watch
Yous are too nosey
Its hard to look away, what was bieber even singing there, awful
Quote from: Orior on July 19, 2026, 09:11:26 PMAbsolute nonsense. Is Trump in the stadium?
Hiding behind bullet proof glass after Iran put 10m on his head
Can't believe Kermit has sunk so low to need to get involved in this, the rest I can understand.
Shakira can still shake that ass
Quote from: BigGreenField on July 19, 2026, 09:13:21 PMCan't believe Kermit has sunk so low to need to get involved in this, the rest I can understand.
Miss Piggy obviously bullied him into it.
Twerking is American culture. Madonna the granny showing kids how its done. bts. The muppets. Shakira. Coldplay
Inspiring. Going for a cry.
Spain needed to score with chances they had. Shocking they subject players to this crap
Was that Juninho in with the Sesame Street crew?
Quote from: tyroneStatto on July 19, 2026, 09:05:00 PMWtf is this?
A copy of the Super Bowl half time show but shorter. I doubt we'll see it at the next World Cup.
This world cup must be the most embarrassing advertising one ever
Wazza speaks for all of us ;D
Quote from: Brendan on July 19, 2026, 09:10:58 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 09:09:58 PMQuote from: Brendan on July 19, 2026, 09:08:51 PMSoccer fans should be affronted at whats become of their sport
Let's blame America and Trump/Infanino.
I spoke too soon...Shakira has appeared
Youns hornballs would be easy won over lolol
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 09:19:47 PMWazza speaks for all of us ;D
What he say I'm at the drinks cabinet 😜
QuoteQuoteWazza speaks for all of us ;D
What he say I'm at the drinks cabinet 😜
Mines a diluting orange... a blackcurrant one ;)
Ah laoislad you knows I mean fridge 🤭
But of course Austin 🤝
This is a load of shite! Somebody score.
If it ends 0-0 , I hope there's not a full time show
Paredes isn't going to last this game.
Spain had a actual striker like,Raul they be dangerous!
Some **** score please
10.00 is my bedtime
Last final in the USA in 94 was a borefest as well, this one might be worse.
67 minutes played and no shot on or off target for Argentina. At least Spain are trying to score.
Hydration break has Maradona's Napoli warm up music pumping over the PA.
The state of Argentina team at this stage ffs. Medina and Otamendi at centre half.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 19, 2026, 09:45:07 PM67 minutes played and no shot on or off target for Argentina. At least Spain are trying to score.
Someone no doubt will label it as Argentina masterclass should they go on to win.
Williams hopefully injects a bit of pace into proceedings and Argentina's defence crack.
For the talent at their disposal Spain are a horrible side.
Spain's shooting in front of goal is woeful. 24 feet wide and all kicked down the middle.
Can somebody give Infantino contact details for Jim Gavin and Eamonn Fitzmaurice?
Those American football stadia are too tight. Everything too packed for an open game.
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 09:52:51 PMWilliams hopefully injects a bit of pace into proceedings and Argentina's defence crack.
Is Robbie on?
Argentina playing for penalties at this stage, will win it too..
Containment with no actual threat
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 10:00:25 PMQuote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 09:52:51 PMWilliams hopefully injects a bit of pace into proceedings and Argentina's defence crack.
Is Robbie on?
;D You know what get him on up front.
I'd like to see Messi's heatmap :o
Into added time any hope of avoiding extra time?
The lads in the VAR room must be going crosswords at this stage.
2nd yellow talk about a stupid challenge
Clear yellow card surely
As stupid as Zidane 20 years ago.
Fernandez is a hateful hure.
He is. Looked like he was going to do a Charlie redmond there.
There's is nothing likeable about Argentina
Jesus this is poor.
A first for a team to have no shot in 90 minutes in a World Cup final?
(https://i.ibb.co/Qv5VdZ01/Screenshot-20260719-221656-Google.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PGSyQRkf)
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 19, 2026, 10:19:44 PMA first for a team to have no shot in 90 minutes in a World Cup final?
(https://i.ibb.co/Qv5VdZ01/Screenshot-20260719-221656-Google.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PGSyQRkf)
It's a cliche but there is only one important stat.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2026, 10:13:08 PMAs stupid as Zidane 20 years ago.
Stupider I would argue given there's going be 30 mins to play in extra time.
Paredes should have gone as well. Two absolute rats.
That Spanish goal is fine and should stand.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 19, 2026, 10:27:38 PMThat Spanish goal is fine and should stand.
Absolutely. No fouls in any of that passage of play.
That's shambolic refereeing.
It seems inevitable that Spain will get fucked over here and either get beat with one shot on target from the Argies or on pens.
No Lautaro.
Its been said as few weeks now, Argentinas name is on the cup.
What a miss
Quote from: Tony Baloney on July 19, 2026, 10:22:00 PMIt's a cliche but there is only one important stat.
Good quote I seen the other day.
Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital.
I've had an itch all night that Cucerella is going to score for Spain
Half time in extra time and Argentina somehow haven't conceded.
Simeone thought about going for the corner flag there.
Spain will kick themselves if they don't win this.
Dixon, Neville and Wright finding it hard to hide their dislike for Argentina.
Should have had OCS on during that half tile break.
Still a better final than the hurling.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 10:40:45 PMSpain will kick themselves if they don't win this.
They got fucked over on the goal, however I think the ref has had a good game apart from that important faux pas.
f**king get in
Spain finally score.
Yes! Messi will wake up now!
Good assist from Tarantula head
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 19, 2026, 10:42:02 PMStill a better final than the hurling.
Hurling folk will be at you saying that was a final for the ages
Both shite games with only one team in them.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 19, 2026, 10:42:02 PMStill a better final than the hurling.
The hurling was shit but this world cup final has been another level of shit.
Strange tactics by Argentina to not make any effort to attack for 105 minutes. Did they think their only chance was to try and bring it to penalties?
All over bar the small matter of how many and which Argentineans will be sent off at full time for hair pulling and eye gouging.
Quote from: Tatler Jack on July 19, 2026, 10:49:56 PMStrange tactics by Argentina to not make any effort to attack for 105 minutes. Did they think their only chance was to try and bring it to penalties?
Looks like it. Backed Martinez to repeat his antics from 4 years ago.
Does that count as a shot from Messi?
Quote from: square_ball on July 19, 2026, 10:52:13 PMQuote from: Tatler Jack on July 19, 2026, 10:49:56 PMStrange tactics by Argentina to not make any effort to attack for 105 minutes. Did they think their only chance was to try and bring it to penalties?
Looks like it. Backed Martinez to repeat his antics from 4 years ago.
Does that count as a shot from Messi?
2 pointer
It's coming.
Again Argentina showing some ambition when going a goal behind.
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 19, 2026, 10:58:29 PMAgain Argentina showing some ambition when going a goal behind.
Unbelievable that they only play when they go behind.
Best team by some distance won.
Slap it up the Argies
Parades throwing digs in the middle.. tr**p of the highest order. Brilliant for the Spanish.
Argentinas behavior in the semi final and final has been disgraceful. May they never win another tournament again.
Would have been a travesty if Argentina pulled off a draw. Still can't understand their approach. Cape Verde would have shown more ambition
Spain, best team won. Argentina went down fighting at the end and almost manufactured a goal but too little too late. Spain should win Euros again too.
Dirty shower who were well beat. Rodri did buck all to deserve that. Peredes, spelling, a tr**p.
Parades a cnut
Williams will be relieved.
What was he at with that chance near the end?
Quote from: weareros on July 19, 2026, 11:05:21 PMSpain, best team won. Argentina went down fighting at the end and almost manufactured a goal but too little too late. Spain should win Euros again too.
They got battered how did Spain not win 3-0. Their behaviour at the end not unexpected. They act the cnuts time and time again. They were at it last time against the Dutch. Never understand why they are fifas poster boys
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 19, 2026, 11:08:09 PMWilliams will be relieved.
What was he at with that chance near the end?
The attempted header was comical ffs
I suppose we should be thankful to Argentina for knocking England out at the semi final stage. Most important result in the tournament for many Irish people. ;)
Spain go ahead of England in the WC Roll of Honour. Another small dent in the "It's coming home" cheer leaders.
Quote from: Tatler Jack on July 19, 2026, 11:10:56 PMI suppose we should be thankful to Argentina for knocking England out at the semi final stage. Most important result in the tournament for many Irish people. ;)
Amen to that.
Funny now Trump has to present the trophy to Spanish team after acting the **** to Spain over Isreal
An absolutely dire World Cup. Spain are a pale shadow of the team that won in 2010 who at least knew how to attack. Yamal as the new poster boy of world football says it all really. Full of running but no end product. As much of a footballer as Dijbril Cisse. The 80 mill Barca spunked on Gordon makes sense now, football has become about how fast you can chase down the full back as opposed to your footballing ability.
Argentina too are a desperate squad. Once Paredes and Molina came on it was all over for them. No football there at all.
Contrary c***ts gonna contrary, I guess.
Spain was far too controlled in possession and organised for Argentina. The game needed Spain to be leading at half time in normal time to get Argentina away from their set tactics of playing physical and doing SFA else.
Spain scored from their 20th shot on goal while it took 117 minutes for Argentina to get shot on goal was such a feeble effort, as for Messi 54 touches and none in the box.
Just listen to them boos lol
Gobshite Trump probably fell asleep during the match, did they wake him up to present the trophy now.
It's not so much a dire World Cup as a dire sport.
Soccer is great fun to play and occasionally can be so entertaining to watch.
But
1. some 40 years on from diving / simulation started to become a thing, football hasn't worked out how to solve the underlying problem that their game actively rewards cheating. This really shouldn't be difficult to solve.
2. there is an intrinsic culture within the sport that a) a draw is a good result, b) playing for penalties is a tactically astute approach. Given the scoring parameters, this is a difficult problem to solve.
Simon hardly looked at Trump
Young player of the tournament
Pau Cubarsí
Best goalkeeper
Unai Simón
Player of the tournament
Rodri
Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2026, 11:29:34 PMIt's not so much a dire World Cup as a dire sport.
Soccer is great fun to play and occasionally can be so entertaining to watch.
But
1. some 40 years on from diving / simulation started to become a thing, football hasn't worked out how to solve the underlying problem that their game actively rewards cheating. This really shouldn't be difficult to solve.
2. there is an intrinsic culture within the sport that a) a draw is a good result, b) playing for penalties is a tactically astute approach. Given the scoring parameters, this is a difficult problem to solve.
Gaelic football solved the draw problem with points when the game was about goals in the early years. ;D ;D
Quote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2026, 11:29:34 PMIt's not so much a dire World Cup as a dire sport.
Soccer is great fun to play and occasionally can be so entertaining to watch.
But
1. some 40 years on from diving / simulation started to become a thing, football hasn't worked out how to solve the underlying problem that their game actively rewards cheating. This really shouldn't be difficult to solve.
2. there is an intrinsic culture within the sport that a) a draw is a good result, b) playing for penalties is a tactically astute approach. Given the scoring parameters, this is a difficult problem to solve.
And yet it's the most popular sport on the planet and it's only getting more and more popular.
Poor game, shame Argentina didn't try to play before going behind it might have been a decent game, absolutely love their dirt and trampiness but Spain by far the better team on the night. Pity for Messi to go out on a whimper but what a career.
With the youth Spain have got be be favourites for next euros.
Quote from: gerrykeegan on July 19, 2026, 11:33:03 PMSimon hardly looked at Trump
Didn't even pretend to buck his trophy either, for shame.
Quote from: Captain Obvious on July 19, 2026, 11:29:27 PMGobshite Trump probably fell asleep during the match, did they wake him up to present the trophy now.
In all fairness he wont have been the only one.
The canadian and Mexican president not getting to hand out a few medals.
Quote from: RedHand88 on July 19, 2026, 11:35:12 PMQuote from: thewobbler on July 19, 2026, 11:29:34 PMIt's not so much a dire World Cup as a dire sport.
Soccer is great fun to play and occasionally can be so entertaining to watch.
But
1. some 40 years on from diving / simulation started to become a thing, football hasn't worked out how to solve the underlying problem that their game actively rewards cheating. This really shouldn't be difficult to solve.
2. there is an intrinsic culture within the sport that a) a draw is a good result, b) playing for penalties is a tactically astute approach. Given the scoring parameters, this is a difficult problem to solve.
And yet it's the most popular sport on the planet and it's only getting more and more popular.
Americans will be sticking to their football, basketball, ice hockey and baseball after that World Cup.
Who told old men wearing white shoes was acceptable never mind with a suit?! Yikes
Can they digital erase Trump from the winning photos. After all he said about Spain.
The Trump show
Gianni needs to get Trump back to the care home in time for his pre dinner meds. Just ambling about the place
That's the last major arse licking Gianni has to do with the Donald. There may be other times, but with less public scrutiny.
Quote from: Wildweasel74 on July 19, 2026, 11:44:36 PMCan they digital erase Trump from the winning photos. After all he said about Spain.
A quick edit like this will do.
(https://i.ibb.co/tMF1HD70/d91c16f5-ab74-48e6-91a9-1f8ac3f140cd.png) (https://ibb.co/XZMGWthn)
Watching back what happened at the final whistle. That number 5 for argentina should get a lengthy ban.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2026, 09:56:38 AMWatching back what happened at the final whistle. That number 5 for argentina should get a lengthy ban.
They be a dogged Tyrone Club team they way the get on in games and afters.....
I step away from this for a bit lol
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2026, 09:56:38 AMWatching back what happened at the final whistle. That number 5 for argentina should get a lengthy ban.
Couple of the backroom team laying hands too
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2026, 09:56:38 AMWatching back what happened at the final whistle. That number 5 for argentina should get a lengthy ban.
I'd say he will get a lengthy enough ban. Was more pushing and shoving though wasn't it, rather than haymakers. Still doesn't look great,
I read he got a red card but didn't see it at the time.
FIFA exceeded revenue target by $4billion. A record.
The doom mongers emphatically wrong.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jul/18/fifa-record-15bn-world-cup-revenue?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-us
Final was by far worst game I saw.
Quote from: toby47 on July 20, 2026, 11:14:31 AMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 20, 2026, 09:56:38 AMWatching back what happened at the final whistle. That number 5 for argentina should get a lengthy ban.
I'd say he will get a lengthy enough ban. Was more pushing and shoving though wasn't it, rather than haymakers. Still doesn't look great,
The same man had just picked up his deserved yellow and went in pushing Spanish players on top of Olmo. Then he was arguing with the ref for the rest of the game.
I CANNOT understand how Argentina were allowed intimidate refs in all the games. They were talking back and jumping in their faces all tournament.
Romero ran 25 yards after Laporte dared to foul Messi. The same St Leo was trying to get Cucurella sent off too.
I thought there was a lot of pressure being applied to refs in a lot of games in that WC. I don't remember it being that bad. The England Argentina game seemed to have a lot of Harry Kane and Messi trying to influence the ref then when Spain got the penalty against France (for a clear penalty) Mbappe wouldn't leave him alone. Fernandez yesterday looked like he wasn't going to go off too.
Bad WC for respect referees campaigns...
(Argentina were definitely by far the worst but weren't alone)
Quote from: DaleCooper on July 20, 2026, 11:34:55 AMFIFA exceeded revenue target by $4billion. A record.
The doom mongers emphatically wrong.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jul/18/fifa-record-15bn-world-cup-revenue?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-us
Final was by far worst game I saw.
Of course it was. The talk of empty stadiums and ICE ruining it etc was completely absurd. People just stuck in an Internet bubble believing anything they read. Reports from anyone there was that they had the time of their lives. Look at the craic the Scots had.
End of the day, it was a world Cup in America (mostly). It was always going to be massive.
Will Ireland make the Spain/Portugal World Cup?
Bit of an underwhelming final as was to be expected. Spain deserved winners. Argentina could have hijacked it with their ultra negative approach but would have left a very sour taste for the purists.
Tournament over all was decent I suppose but like the final and American culture in general, promised a lot more. Spain came through the tougher side of the draw but there looked to be a serious lack of contender quality overall. No great Dutch, German or Brazil teams. Portugal very average. No maverick Eastern Europeans. Italy didn't even qualify for the 48. There was a serious dearth of maverick players and strikers in general. Just everyone going through a process of low risk no mistake football, play not to lose and hope to nick a goal. The way the game has gone it's the smart approach but hardly gets you on the edge of your seat. And less said about the HT show the better.
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 20, 2026, 12:43:09 PMBit of an underwhelming final as was to be expected. Spain deserved winners. Argentina could have hijacked it with their ultra negative approach but would have left a very sour taste for the purists.
Tournament over all was decent I suppose but like the final and American culture in general, promised a lot more. Spain came through the tougher side of the draw but there looked to be a serious lack of contender quality overall. No great Dutch, German or Brazil teams. Portugal very average. No maverick Eastern Europeans. Italy didn't even qualify for the 48. There was a serious dearth of maverick players and strikers in general. Just everyone going through a process of low risk no mistake football, play not to lose and hope to nick a goal. The way the game has gone it's the smart approach but hardly gets you on the edge of your seat. And less said about the HT show the better.
Agree with this 100%.
Not much to add to that tbh
Unfortunately it's the way the game is going...
Spain would never take the bait but I would love to see Otamendi and Romero kicked into Row Z, along with Paredes and that little scobe Enzo.
Argentina fans seem to enjoy rubbing it in the opposition faces more than the actual winning and I love seeing them lose. They have notions and think they are better than everyone else on the continent.
They will drift off now for the forseeable when you look at Messi and the overall age profile.
Spain on the other hand hand have a solid spine for a long time. Huijsen will be back in and that's their central defence sorted for a decade!
Nico Williams is 24, Yamal is a kid and then you have Pedri and Gavi too.
Quote from: WT4E on July 20, 2026, 12:42:47 PMWill Ireland make the Spain/Portugal World Cup?
If it's 64 teams, yes. 48 likely.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 20, 2026, 01:29:52 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 20, 2026, 12:42:47 PMWill Ireland make the Spain/Portugal World Cup?
If it's 64 teams, yes. 48 likely.
I wouldn't be so sure. Uefa will probably only get 3/4 more spots for a 64 team tournament
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 20, 2026, 12:43:09 PMBit of an underwhelming final as was to be expected. Spain deserved winners. Argentina could have hijacked it with their ultra negative approach but would have left a very sour taste for the purists.
Tournament over all was decent I suppose but like the final and American culture in general, promised a lot more. Spain came through the tougher side of the draw but there looked to be a serious lack of contender quality overall. No great Dutch, German or Brazil teams. Portugal very average. No maverick Eastern Europeans. Italy didn't even qualify for the 48. There was a serious dearth of maverick players and strikers in general. Just everyone going through a process of low risk no mistake football, play not to lose and hope to nick a goal. The way the game has gone it's the smart approach but hardly gets you on the edge of your seat. And less said about the HT show the better.
Careful. You'll have lads on here taking great offence at this telling you it was the best World Cup there has ever been and the football they have just watched for the last 5 weeks has been out of this world.
No, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
Quote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
And then you see Morgan Rogers going for 120 million straight after this world cup where he wasn't even a starter. Soccer is probably at its lowest ebb in a while. Thank God for the GAA and our amateur national sport.
And when he did start he was shit.
It was a better WC than I expected but then I wasn't expecting much. Cape Verde was a good story and then (possibly unfortunately) England staying in it longer creates more hype. Canada doing reasonably well would have been good too but for the fact their manager is such a dick.
What looked like Trump getting the US guy off his suspension was a big kick in the balls for it I thought.
Quote from: Silkyskillssunshinee on July 20, 2026, 02:17:10 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
And then you see Morgan Rogers going for 120 million straight after this world cup where he wasn't even a starter. Soccer is probably at its lowest ebb in a while. Thank God for the GAA and our amateur national sport.
Would tend to agree with this in general. Very soulless in the Premier League as well. When Man City can blow 120 million on Elliot Anderson in the face of these charges what are we doing. Tickets another farce.
I would prefer both codes in the GAA and NFL to soccer at the minute but it couldn't slip any further down than 4th I don't think.
Spain are brilliant and it is a credit to them how little defending they have to do as they always have the ball, but my God - their games are dreadful viewing. Not that they'll care too much
There can be a lot of short term memory or receny bias when labelling it the best WC ever. It was a good tournament. 2018 and 22 were good tournaments too.
France 98 and 2006 were maybe better tournaments. The flair of Croatia with Davor Suker or Bergkamp shining for Holland.
Wasn't terrible, wasn't wonderful. The hydration breaks, half time show and general Americanisation of the whole thing was shite, not to mention the stink of Trump about the place and Infantino the corrupt little lapdog.
Leaving that aside, the football itself wasn't wonderful, France and Spain the only top teams there with Argentina dogging their way to the final without playing any wonderful football Messi aside. Capo Verde and Norway up until the England game were something different and good to get behind.
The other bigger nations are all at a low ebb, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Croatia, Portugal all a shadow of their best teams, the less said about Brazil the better and none of the other South Americans were up to much.
Probably reflects a lack of real quality and entertainment across the board in soccer these days though
Quote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
With Infantino at the helm it won't change. He's up for re-election next year and no opponent will lay a glove on him.
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 20, 2026, 02:24:44 PMThere can be a lot of short term memory or receny bias when labelling it the best WC ever. It was a good tournament. 2018 and 22 were good tournaments too.
France 98 and 2006 were maybe better tournaments. The flair of Croatia with Davor Suker or Bergkamp shining for Holland.
It was a good tournament in many ways. I think that
Quote from: Silkyskillssunshinee on July 20, 2026, 02:17:10 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
And then you see Morgan Rogers going for 120 million straight after this world cup where he wasn't even a starter. Soccer is probably at its lowest ebb in a while. Thank God for the GAA and our amateur national sport.
Sure Ireland had to vicariously live through Pico Lopes over the course of the tournament.
When you look at Spain, and their footballing infrastructure it would make you shudder. Even England are relatively deficient in ways (for example the creation of good coaches/managers), and yet have a conveyor belt of good players.
We didn't qualify, we supplied no referees, and I'm not aware of many Irish trained coaches in backroom staff etc.
Quote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
it had been all about money for quite some time now
Quote from: JollyGreenGiant on July 20, 2026, 02:30:18 PMQuote from: rodney trotter on July 20, 2026, 02:24:44 PMThere can be a lot of short term memory or receny bias when labelling it the best WC ever. It was a good tournament. 2018 and 22 were good tournaments too.
France 98 and 2006 were maybe better tournaments. The flair of Croatia with Davor Suker or Bergkamp shining for Holland.
It was a good tournament in many ways. I think that
Quote from: Silkyskillssunshinee on July 20, 2026, 02:17:10 PMQuote from: An Watcher on July 20, 2026, 02:06:23 PMNo, that was an average wc not helped by the yankie pricing and trump interfering. I think ths is the way football is going though. All about the money
And then you see Morgan Rogers going for 120 million straight after this world cup where he wasn't even a starter. Soccer is probably at its lowest ebb in a while. Thank God for the GAA and our amateur national sport.
Sure Ireland had to vicariously live through Pico Lopes over the course of the tournament.
When you look at Spain, and their footballing infrastructure it would make you shudder. Even England are relatively deficient in ways (for example the creation of good coaches/managers), and yet have a conveyor belt of good players.
We didn't qualify, we supplied no referees, and I'm not aware of many Irish trained coaches in backroom staff etc.
Pico sure to get a run out on the Late Late.
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 20, 2026, 01:46:09 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 20, 2026, 01:29:52 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 20, 2026, 12:42:47 PMWill Ireland make the Spain/Portugal World Cup?
If it's 64 teams, yes. 48 likely.
I wouldn't be so sure. Uefa will probably only get 3/4 more spots for a 64 team tournament
If even. Infantino wants to expand to give China a chance to qualify. The Euros will the premiere soccer competition. The Fossil Fuel World Cup will always have the mystique of past glories but a rake of low quality teams. And where will the poor auld Scots find an Irish pub in Saudi Arabia?
Quote from: Look-Up! on July 20, 2026, 12:43:09 PMBit of an underwhelming final as was to be expected. Spain deserved winners. Argentina could have hijacked it with their ultra negative approach but would have left a very sour taste for the purists.
Tournament over all was decent I suppose but like the final and American culture in general, promised a lot more. Spain came through the tougher side of the draw but there looked to be a serious lack of contender quality overall. No great Dutch, German or Brazil teams. Portugal very average. No maverick Eastern Europeans. Italy didn't even qualify for the 48. There was a serious dearth of maverick players and strikers in general. Just everyone going through a process of low risk no mistake football, play not to lose and hope to nick a goal. The way the game has gone it's the smart approach but hardly gets you on the edge of your seat. And less said about the HT show the better.
Spot on, it's the same at Club level as seen with Arsenal winning a rare Premier League title and reaching the Champions league final with few memorable matches on route instead mostly what you have outlined above.
This was probably the worst WC I've seen. What actually stands out? Cape Verde , and a few goals for Messi
The England games were memorable, not in a wow way , but because we were invested in those matches more, because most of us wanted them out ASAP.
Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, Brazil were all poor . France looked decent up front at times. Other times they were dire. Spain were a hard watch.
When you think back to iconic moments from previous WC's , there were few here
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWill Ireland make the Spain/Portugal World Cup?
If it's 64 teams, yes. 48 likely.
I wouldn't be so sure. Uefa will probably only get 3/4 more spots for a 64 team tournament
If even. Infantino wants to expand to give China a chance to qualify. The Euros will the premiere soccer competition. The Fossil Fuel World Cup will always have the mystique of past glories but a rake of low quality teams. And where will the poor auld Scots find an Irish pub in Saudi Arabia?
And India, no doubt. The two most populated countries. Plenty of exposure and more money to be made
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 20, 2026, 02:39:30 PMThis was probably the worst WC I've seen. What actually stands out? Cape Verde , and a few goals for Messi
The England games were memorable, not in a wow way , but because we were invested in those matches more, because most of us wanted them out ASAP.
Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, Brazil were all poor . France looked decent up front at times. Other times they were dire. Spain were a hard watch.
When you think back to iconic moments from previous WC's , there were few here
You must have missed 2010 with the vuvuzelas blaring out at every game. 2014 wasn't great either. Brazil as hosts hammered 7-1 in the semis. The final was poor. Ze Germans won in extra time.
£100M doesn't buy you a whole pile of player nowadays.
Elliott Anderson, Morgan Rodgers, Bruno Guimaraes, Adam Wharton all being quoted at that and above.
heck, even Rayan, a bit part player at this WC is priced at over £100M..
Italy in talks with Guardiola about becoming the new manager. They need a lift. Missing out on 3 consecutive World Cups is really poor. Paulo Maldini was appointed technical Director recently.
Surely for a proud nation like italy that be frowned upon appointing a spaniard
Like imagine if England hired a German.....
Quote from: quit yo jibbajabba on July 20, 2026, 03:24:42 PMSurely for a proud nation like italy that be frowned upon appointing a spaniard
Like imagine if England hired a German.....
Be more of a rivalry with France and Germany. They have went through a lot of Italian managers and been a disaster.
Quote from: rodney trotter on July 20, 2026, 02:55:34 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 20, 2026, 02:39:30 PMThis was probably the worst WC I've seen. What actually stands out? Cape Verde , and a few goals for Messi
The England games were memorable, not in a wow way , but because we were invested in those matches more, because most of us wanted them out ASAP.
Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, Brazil were all poor . France looked decent up front at times. Other times they were dire. Spain were a hard watch.
When you think back to iconic moments from previous WC's , there were few here
You must have missed 2010 with the vuvuzelas blaring out at every game. 2014 wasn't great either. Brazil as hosts hammered 7-1 in the semis. The final was poor. Ze Germans won in extra time.
The biggest problem is asking humans to play in the midday sun of a hot country to accommodate maximum TV audiences.
I suppose next logical step for a TV suit would be PPV.
From world cups I've watched been alive for
1998
2002
2022
2006
2026
2018
2014
2010
Probably be the way I'd rank them. 02/06 Ireland/Youth probably why I have them so high
Wtf. 2002 was absolutely crap. 2018 was excellent.
No country has won the World Cup with an outside manager? Well can't be bothered checking, but my daughter mentioned it!
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2026, 07:05:42 PMNo country has won the World Cup with an outside manager? Well can't be bothered checking, but my daughter mentioned it!
I thought I this on commentary last night. Couldnt think of any to disprove it.
Quick look at wiki agrees with this
Quote from: Milltown Row2 on July 20, 2026, 07:05:42 PMNo country has won the World Cup with an outside manager? Well can't be bothered checking, but my daughter mentioned it!
Yep remember it being mentioned when Tuchel was appointed.
Some thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
Quote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Quote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
When you look at the team movement with Spain and you see how they step in and out and move as a unit to create space it is brilliant.
You NEVER see England doing that. This time out Bellingham was Roy of the Rovers and everyone waited for him to save the day, while the others just run down blind alleys and haven't football IQ to even get the F out of the way half the time.
At club level the English teams rely on imported football brains to run the show. Rodri taking over from De Bruyne at City and so on.
Look at Liverpool. Gerrard running around the pitch and never holding position. He needed Alonso there to actually add some control. One is regarded as a Premier League all-timer and the other won everything there is to win...
So true
Astounded me the number of times Stevie G was lauded for a crossfield diag that left a full back or winger stood basically on the corner flag with no room to maneuver and no-one in the box to receive a cross if they could have dug one out in 0.3 second flat, it looked the part but rarely amounted to much, needless to say Stevie didn't adapt well to the higher IQ requirement when the legs went
In fairness Lampard was a far more intelligent player, but Stevie G simply could not be played centre mid at international level.
England have gone the other way a bit now in that they think boring side-passing is what they need. Anderson was fairly shown up and Rice is another all-action hero who doesn't just take a beat to slow the game when needed.
Not to have it all England, Brazil really are struggling for players and I don't see much coming through either.
I said already Germany's system will bring some new lads through. Spain and France will be the teams to beat next time out.
Quote from: Captain Scarlet on July 21, 2026, 10:44:52 AMIn fairness Lampard was a far more intelligent player, but Stevie G simply could not be played centre mid at international level.
England have gone the other way a bit now in that they think boring side-passing is what they need. Anderson was fairly shown up and Rice is another all-action hero who doesn't just take a beat to slow the game when needed.
Not to have it all England, Brazil really are struggling for players and I don't see much coming through either.
I said already Germany's system will bring some new lads through. Spain and France will be the teams to beat next time out.
Yeah barring injury Spain are going to be hard stopped. Rodri only 30 should have another Euros and World Cup in him yet and likes of Yamal will only get better
Paredas' sister claiming "we may not have the fourth star, but we have the Falklands".
I hope somebody has the decency to correct her that they have neither the star nor the Falklands. And also that it was a scandal how her brother was never red carded in the final.
Quote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Quote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
I get your point but I genuinely think they do have the players, it is about getting them playing together and getting them not to fall apart once the pressure comes on at that level. Yes there is that bias and the media make them out to be better than they are but they are amongst the best squads for sure.
Look at Spain, two full backs who wouldn't be massively rated in the EPL but put them into a system that they know & understand and good players around them and they both looked so much better and more comfortable. Sum of the parts and all that.
Quote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
England have the players. They could even afford to leave Palmer, Foden and TAA at home.
The problem is they are pampered arseholes who dislike each other and don't really listen to coaches.
They don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Quote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Quote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Yes. He is that good. I understand he was sick earlier in the week which dulled his talents in the Quarter and Semi final. But Rice is a controller with a peach of a pass. If he had stayed on against Argentina (and was fully fit) with Bellingham ahead of him, that game wouldn't have been lost (at least int he way it was).
Quote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Decent player but again not one the top dogs be losing sleep over playing against.
I think the quality in football in general has gone to feck. Outside PSG and Bayern, the other big clubs are at a low ebb.
Spains big 2, United, Chelsea, City, Liverpool, the Italian clubs all shadows of their peak teams. Arsenal a tough team to beat but would rather watch 2 snails racing in the garden.
Even in the premier league what proper top top players are there that you'd go out of your way to see? Haaland, Rodri, Bruno? Struggling after that tbh.
But again Rice can do things for the club based on the players from other countries around him eg Odergaard, Zubimendi, etc. He can drive forward and leave gaps knowing they have the tactical knowledge to fill in and then behind that a lad from France and Brazil who are top centre backs.
TAA is all well and good on the ball but after Valverde scored a feckin Champions League Hat Trick he still had to come back and spend the rest of that game protecting him.
Bellingham is a big moments player for Real when he had the same man there and Kroos before that. He does do it for England but withoit those lads he ends up having to dive in and do more donkey work.
Even look at how they highlight Keane v Viera. They love the crash, bang, wallop aspect of that rivalry but they don't appreciate their control or passing. There's another two main men they needed to buy in running the two dominant Premier League teams of their day.
Very true
Was it a lapse not bringing Wharton or Lewis-Skelly (who kept Zubamendi out of the CL Final lineup)
A few mins before Eng scored v Argentina Anderson hit a cracker of a crossfield ball along the ground through the lines to Gordon on the wing, they were combative, well in the game and playing decent stuff, after the goal they froze, several tactical mishaps later it was a car crash - it really was right there for them to make the final
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 03:32:50 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Decent player but again not one the top dogs be losing sleep over playing against.
I think the quality in football in general has gone to feck. Outside PSG and Bayern, the other big clubs are at a low ebb.
Spains big 2, United, Chelsea, City, Liverpool, the Italian clubs all shadows of their peak teams. Arsenal a tough team to beat but would rather watch 2 snails racing in the garden.
Even in the premier league what proper top top players are there that you'd go out of your way to see? Haaland, Rodri, Bruno? Struggling after that tbh.
The PL is dull as dishwater. Pep's city team were awful to watch , and Arteta has taken boredom on another notch. Arsenal seemed to spend the whole season going 1-0 up then holding the lead, pulling 11 behind the ball.
The likes of Rice/Anderson/Rogers etc 100m players , is absolute madness. Nothing special about any of them.
The player I enjoyed watching recently in the PL was Salah. He was poor last season though. Who's left now? I'm struggling to name one
Quote from: AustinPowers on July 21, 2026, 06:17:23 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 03:32:50 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Decent player but again not one the top dogs be losing sleep over playing against.
I think the quality in football in general has gone to feck. Outside PSG and Bayern, the other big clubs are at a low ebb.
Spains big 2, United, Chelsea, City, Liverpool, the Italian clubs all shadows of their peak teams. Arsenal a tough team to beat but would rather watch 2 snails racing in the garden.
Even in the premier league what proper top top players are there that you'd go out of your way to see? Haaland, Rodri, Bruno? Struggling after that tbh.
The PL is dull as dishwater. Pep's city team were awful to watch , and Arteta has taken boredom on another notch. Arsenal seemed to spend the whole season going 1-0 up then holding the lead, pulling 11 behind the ball.
The likes of Rice/Anderson/Rogers etc 100m players , is absolute madness. Nothing special about any of them.
The player I enjoyed watching recently in the PL was Salah. He was poor last season though. Who's left now? I'm struggling to name one
Bruno can be a little p***k but he's super to watch when on form he's always trying to make something happen rather than playing it safe. Haaland is a joy to watch in full flow but can be anonymous as well. Can't say I watch huge amounts outside United but anything I do see is poor.
From a United perspective Cunha and Mainoo have some exciting qualities but are levels below the good old days watching Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Ronaldo, Nani or obviously further back Kanchelskis, Cantona etc. Look at Arsenal now and none could lace the boots of Henry/Bergkamp etc etc.
Quote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2026, 02:00:40 PMThey don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Central midfield is their strength. The lack of goalkeeper and fullback is the actual problem.
Quote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 06:30:36 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 21, 2026, 06:17:23 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 03:32:50 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Decent player but again not one the top dogs be losing sleep over playing against.
I think the quality in football in general has gone to feck. Outside PSG and Bayern, the other big clubs are at a low ebb.
Spains big 2, United, Chelsea, City, Liverpool, the Italian clubs all shadows of their peak teams. Arsenal a tough team to beat but would rather watch 2 snails racing in the garden.
Even in the premier league what proper top top players are there that you'd go out of your way to see? Haaland, Rodri, Bruno? Struggling after that tbh.
The PL is dull as dishwater. Pep's city team were awful to watch , and Arteta has taken boredom on another notch. Arsenal seemed to spend the whole season going 1-0 up then holding the lead, pulling 11 behind the ball.
The likes of Rice/Anderson/Rogers etc 100m players , is absolute madness. Nothing special about any of them.
The player I enjoyed watching recently in the PL was Salah. He was poor last season though. Who's left now? I'm struggling to name one
Bruno can be a little p***k but he's super to watch when on form he's always trying to make something happen rather than playing it safe. Haaland is a joy to watch in full flow but can be anonymous as well. Can't say I watch huge amounts outside United but anything I do see is poor.
From a United perspective Cunha and Mainoo have some exciting qualities but are levels below the good old days watching Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Ronaldo, Nani or obviously further back Kanchelskis, Cantona etc. Look at Arsenal now and none could lace the boots of Henry/Bergkamp etc etc.
I think football in general lacks top top quality players. Maybe we were split with the Messi era backed up by C Ronaldo. Before that you had zidane and R9. Kaka and Ronaldinho etc
Something struck me again when listening to the Kevin Keegan stories this week.
When that superstar decided to go abroad, Liverpool handpicked another superstar in Dalglish to fill his shoes. A few years later they picked up Paul Walsh to become Dalglish's replacement, though that didn't work out. Then Beardsley.
Clubs didn't hoard the more talented players those days like City (and others) do nowadays. They picked one star player and built their team around him.
Whereas now they force their collective or creative players to conform to positional, stats-based football, otherwise they get fewer minutes.
The game is surely a poorer spectacle as a result.
Quote from: tonto1888 on July 21, 2026, 09:55:26 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 06:30:36 PMQuote from: AustinPowers on July 21, 2026, 06:17:23 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 03:32:50 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 02:53:40 PMQuote from: Armagh18 on July 21, 2026, 02:06:07 PMQuote from: WT4E on July 21, 2026, 01:39:17 PMQuote from: NAG1 on July 21, 2026, 09:42:04 AMQuote from: weareros on July 20, 2026, 10:02:53 PMQuote from: gawa316 on July 20, 2026, 09:39:28 PMSome thought Tuchel and Ancelotti might be the ones to buck the trend but obviously not
The mystery is that there's still some that think it in Brazil and England.
Probably more so Brazil just dont have the players currently to even have a proper tilt at it.
England have the players, just can never seem to get it done when it really matters.
I hear this alot but is it true? I thought them a shocking outfit to make it to the SF. Riding their luck against DR Congo, Norway and Mexico? Maybe I dont know enough about soccer but those players look not great! Bellingham and exception and maybe 1 or 2 others
Had Brazil scored their peno against Norway I think Engerland would have been out in the QFs
Bellingham in fits and starts in fairness stood up with big goals a few times, Kane is quality. Rice is good player but looked knackered, Anderson good player as well but not one opposition be losing sleep over.
Outside of that they're average enough all round.
Rice looked fresh as fcuk in the 3rd place playoff the only game with no pressure maybe thats an issue for him. Is he that good?
Decent player but again not one the top dogs be losing sleep over playing against.
I think the quality in football in general has gone to feck. Outside PSG and Bayern, the other big clubs are at a low ebb.
Spains big 2, United, Chelsea, City, Liverpool, the Italian clubs all shadows of their peak teams. Arsenal a tough team to beat but would rather watch 2 snails racing in the garden.
Even in the premier league what proper top top players are there that you'd go out of your way to see? Haaland, Rodri, Bruno? Struggling after that tbh.
The PL is dull as dishwater. Pep's city team were awful to watch , and Arteta has taken boredom on another notch. Arsenal seemed to spend the whole season going 1-0 up then holding the lead, pulling 11 behind the ball.
The likes of Rice/Anderson/Rogers etc 100m players , is absolute madness. Nothing special about any of them.
The player I enjoyed watching recently in the PL was Salah. He was poor last season though. Who's left now? I'm struggling to name one
Bruno can be a little p***k but he's super to watch when on form he's always trying to make something happen rather than playing it safe. Haaland is a joy to watch in full flow but can be anonymous as well. Can't say I watch huge amounts outside United but anything I do see is poor.
From a United perspective Cunha and Mainoo have some exciting qualities but are levels below the good old days watching Scholes, Giggs, Rooney, Ronaldo, Nani or obviously further back Kanchelskis, Cantona etc. Look at Arsenal now and none could lace the boots of Henry/Bergkamp etc etc.
I think football in general lacks top top quality players. Maybe we were split with the Messi era backed up by C Ronaldo. Before that you had zidane and R9. Kaka and Ronaldinho etc
Yeah agreed.
Obviously Messi and Ronaldo were out of this world, but even during their era there was plenty more brilliant players around at that next level below them- Lewandowski, Suarez, Neymar when he was arsed, Rooney, Zlatan, Bale, Benzema, etc etc.
Closest to that these days is Mbappe, maybe a few of the PSG lads, Haaland and Kane.
Quote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 21, 2026, 07:56:07 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2026, 02:00:40 PMThey don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Central midfield is their strength. The lack of goalkeeper and fullback is the actual problem.
45%,36%,53%,34% was the possession stats for England in their last 4 games, should be better at retaining possession and controlling games when central midfield is their strength? I don't think they were overly great out of possession either especially when they went into a defensive mode.
Spain won the World cup mainly because they had a midfield to control games. In the knock out stages they had average of 62% possession per game. Such control resulted in just one goal conceded and only conceded 10 shots on target all tournament and didn't give a sniff of a chance to the likes of Messi, Mbappe.
Hard to see who will stop Spain from winning Euro 2028.
Not sure if best to put here on the wtf thread but Trump wants his buddy Infantino as the next secretary general of the UN apparently!
Quote from: Blowitupref on July 22, 2026, 02:27:46 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 21, 2026, 07:56:07 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2026, 02:00:40 PMThey don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Central midfield is their strength. The lack of goalkeeper and fullback is the actual problem.
45%,36%,53%,34% was the possession stats for England in their last 4 games, should be better at retaining possession and controlling games when central midfield is their strength? I don't think they were overly great out of possession either especially when they went into a defensive mode.
Spain won the World cup mainly because they had a midfield to control games. In the knock out stages they had average of 62% possession per game. Such control resulted in just one goal conceded and only conceded 10 shots on target all tournament and didn't give a sniff of a chance to the likes of Messi, Mbappe.
Hard to see who will stop Spain from winning Euro 2028.
The best team doesn't always win the euros so don't go betting the house on Spain or France. Previous winners like Denmark and greece and even Portugal and Holland have all won the Euros but not a world cup.
The top teams value the world cup over the euros.
Quote from: Capt Pat on July 22, 2026, 10:39:43 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 22, 2026, 02:27:46 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 21, 2026, 07:56:07 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2026, 02:00:40 PMThey don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Central midfield is their strength. The lack of goalkeeper and fullback is the actual problem.
45%,36%,53%,34% was the possession stats for England in their last 4 games, should be better at retaining possession and controlling games when central midfield is their strength? I don't think they were overly great out of possession either especially when they went into a defensive mode.
Spain won the World cup mainly because they had a midfield to control games. In the knock out stages they had average of 62% possession per game. Such control resulted in just one goal conceded and only conceded 10 shots on target all tournament and didn't give a sniff of a chance to the likes of Messi, Mbappe.
Hard to see who will stop Spain from winning Euro 2028.
The best team doesn't always win the euros so don't go betting the house on Spain or France. Previous winners like Denmark and greece and even Portugal and Holland have all won the Euros but not a world cup.
The top teams value the world cup over the euros.
True and you left out Italy who won it in 2020 and haven't qualified for the the last few World cups.
Spain are different though, Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, Euro 2012 winners. They'll be hard stopped in repeating that feat in 2028.
Quote from: Capt Pat on July 22, 2026, 10:39:43 PMQuote from: Blowitupref on July 22, 2026, 02:27:46 PMQuote from: Baile Brigín 2 on July 21, 2026, 07:56:07 PMQuote from: imtommygunn on July 21, 2026, 02:00:40 PMThey don't have the players though. They don't have the players in centre midfield in particular to be winning these kind of tournaments.
The pampered arseholes is possibly an issue too yes...
Central midfield is their strength. The lack of goalkeeper and fullback is the actual problem.
45%,36%,53%,34% was the possession stats for England in their last 4 games, should be better at retaining possession and controlling games when central midfield is their strength? I don't think they were overly great out of possession either especially when they went into a defensive mode.
Spain won the World cup mainly because they had a midfield to control games. In the knock out stages they had average of 62% possession per game. Such control resulted in just one goal conceded and only conceded 10 shots on target all tournament and didn't give a sniff of a chance to the likes of Messi, Mbappe.
Hard to see who will stop Spain from winning Euro 2028.
The best team doesn't always win the euros so don't go betting the house on Spain or France. Previous winners like Denmark and greece and even Portugal and Holland have all won the Euros but not a world cup.
The top teams value the world cup over the euros.
unless youre CR7