OT: Official FUTBAL Thread

[Benign Despot]

Soccer for the Americans.

It's been a while since I tried this but what the hell, it's Friday, and I haven't had enough abuse lately.

The US spanked Mexico again in the final round of WC qualifying. The Mexicans look bad, they'd best worry about the Costa Ricans overtaking them instead of catching the Americans. Sven Goran Erickson doesn't look like he has a clue how to handle this group. 3rd place in CONCACAF needs to play a South American team in a playoff to make the finals, not an appetizing prospect.

A quick question for our British guests, I try to follow Clint Dempsey but we don't get Fulman (more ManU and Chelsea than you can stand) that often on TV over here. How's he playing, I know he's starting and his work rate is up there but what's the consensus on his skills? Is Fulham going to win a spot in the UEFA cup?

[JD10367]

P4E P4E P4E P4E P4E P4E

I was just starting to get a little interested in the sport when he got banned.

When is the World Cup? I'll watch. Hopefully it'll be on in high-def...

[Benign Despot]

June 2010

[OSUBuckeye]

I like hawt soccer moms. Does that count?

[mikiemo83]

when the revs season start...is it in about 5 weeks or so

looked it up March 21st in San Jose

Joe Thorton is dropping the 1st ball :D


Game Date Kickoff Opponent TV Radio Score
Sat 3/21/09 10:30 PM @ San Jose Earthquakes TV38
Sat 3/28/09 7:30 PM @ New York Red Bulls FSC
Sat 4/4/09 7:30 PM vs FC Dallas TV38
Fri 4/17/09 7:00 PM @ D.C. United ESPN2
Sat 4/25/09 9:00 PM @ Real Salt Lake TV38
Sun 5/3/09 3:00 PM vs Houston Dynamo Telefutura/TV38
Sat 5/9/09 8:30 PM @ Chicago Fire TV38
Sat 5/16/09 7:30 PM vs Colorado Rapids TV38
Sat 5/23/09 TBD @ Toronto FC TV38
Sat 5/30/09 7:30 PM vs D.C. United TV38
Sun 6/7/09 6:00 PM vs New York Red Bulls TV38
Sat 6/13/09 8:30 PM @ Kansas City Wizards TV38
Sat 7/4/09 11:00 PM @ Los Angeles Galaxy FSC/FSE
Sat 7/11/09 4:00 PM vs Kansas City Wizards TV38
Sun 7/19/09 6:00 PM vs Chivas USA TV38
Sat 7/25/09 8:30 PM @ Houston Dynamo TV38
Sat 8/1/09 7:30 PM vs Toronto FC TV38
Sat 8/8/09 6:00 PM vs Los Angeles Galaxy FSC/FSE
Thu 8/20/09 10:00 PM @ Seattle Sounders FC ESPN2
Sun 8/23/09 6:00 PM vs Real Salt Lake TV38
Sat 8/29/09 7:30 PM vs San Jose Earthquakes TV38
Sat 9/5/09 7:30 PM vs Kansas City Wizards Telefutura/TV38
Sun 9/13/09 3:00 PM @ Chivas USA Telefutura/TV38
Fri 9/18/09 7:30 PM @ New York Red Bulls TV38
Sat 9/26/09 7:30 PM vs Seattle Sounders FC TV38
Wed 9/30/09 8:30 PM @ FC Dallas TV38
Sat 10/3/09 9:00 PM @ Colorado Rapids TV38
Sat 10/10/09 7:30 PM vs Columbus Crew TV38
Sat 10/17/09 6:00 PM vs Chicago Fire FSC/FSE
Sun 10/25/09 5:00 PM @ Columbus Crew TV38

[Ras]

Got my Revs tix for this year.

[luso2kx]

I see America has finally realized how worthless David Beckham really is. Hell, most on this side of the Atlantic were saying that when he first signed with MLS.

[OSUBuckeye]

I see America has finally realized how worthless David Beckham really is. Hell, most on this side of the Atlantic were saying that when he first signed with MLS.

Who is David Beckham?

[Costanza]

Who is David Beckham?

He looks and sounds like a girl. He also puts socks down his pants.

[OSUBuckeye]

He looks and sounds like a girl. He also puts socks down his pants.

Oh I get it, he plays soccer.

[Costanza]

Oh I get it, he plays soccer.

I almost leaked soda out of my nose, lol.

I used to think the same way, but then I watched some of the last world cup. Them dudes are nuts. Lots of blood.

[Benign Despot]

I see America has finally realized how worthless David Beckham really is. Hell, most on this side of the Atlantic were saying that when he first signed with MLS.

At the aboslute top of his game Beckham was a decent left mid who was a nice asset on free kicks. He may be the most overrated athlete in the history of the world (either him or Anna Kournikova).

[PatsFan09]

At the aboslute top of his game Beckham was a decent left mid who was a nice asset on free kicks. He may be the most overrated athlete in the history of the world (either him or Anna Kournikova).

Anna was overrated? I thought that she became famous for her looks; no one ever rated her all that highly as a tennis player, although she was fairly successful when she first went pro.

Beckham is vastly overrated as a soccer player.

Anna isn't vastly overrated as a tennis player; she's rated highly for her looks.

[luso2kx]

At the aboslute top of his game Beckham was a decent left mid who was a nice asset on free kicks. He may be the most overrated athlete in the history of the world (either him or Anna Kournikova).At, what was it, $25+million/year,. Beckham surpasses Pornokova by a few trips around the planet in terms of being overrated.

If the MLS were actually serious about bringing some good talent into the league, they should've gotten Cristiano Ronaldo. He's talented and, most of all, he's an arrogant prick. While that last trait may sound bad, it would work in the sense of drawing heat from opposing fanbases and to try and use it as material to draw more fans to the game.

[JD10367]

Who is David Beckham?

He's the guy pussy-whipped by Posh Spice.

[Patriots4ever]

A quick question for our British guests, I try to follow Clint Dempsey but we don't get Fulman (more ManU and Chelsea than you can stand) that often on TV over here. How's he playing, I know he's starting and his work rate is up there but what's the consensus on his skills? Is Fulham going to win a spot in the UEFA cup?

It would seem that Fulham is where all the American stars go. :shrug:

[gomezcat]

It would seem that Fulham is where all the American stars go. :shrug:

It would seem so. They're a middling Premier League team at best, but have a bit of money. I guess they have a certain draw because they're based in West London and in a nice part at that.

[anderson]

I see America has finally realized how worthless David Beckham really is. Hell, most on this side of the Atlantic were saying that when he first signed with MLS.

David Beckham has played amazingly for AC Milan.

[anderson]

It would seem so. They're a middling Premier League team at best, but have a bit of money. I guess they have a certain draw because they're based in West London and in a nice part at that.

Back when Fayed put a lot of money in them, they had huge ambitions, but I don't know what happened to that. I don't think they will reach the UEFA cup for a while.

[luso2kx]

David Beckham has played amazingly for AC Milan.Has he, or is it more due to the fact that he has far superior talent surrounding him in AC Milan than the also-rans he had in LA? In Milan, he doesn't need to carry the team(the team ownership does that by paying off the refs :p).

[Benign Despot]

At, what was it, $25+million/year,. Beckham surpasses Pornokova by a few trips around the planet in terms of being overrated.

If the MLS were actually serious about bringing some good talent into the league, they should've gotten Cristiano Ronaldo. He's talented and, most of all, he's an arrogant prick. While that last trait may sound bad, it would work in the sense of drawing heat from opposing fanbases and to try and use it as material to draw more fans to the game.

MLS will never get a player at the top of his game like CR. Hell they don't even hold on to the top US players (Bradley, Dempsey, Howard, Beasley, etc)

If I were in charge I'd have them going after the 30+ year old black players in Europe who are tired of the abuse they take week in and week out. Get Thiery Henry on the phone, maybe Ronaldo.

[luso2kx]

If I were in charge I'd have them going after the 30+ year old black players in Europe who are tired of the abuse they take week in and week out. Get Thiery Henry on the phone, maybe Ronaldo.Yes, but at the same ridiculous amount of cash they gave Beckham? That same contract could've been given to CR and he would've taken it with a gigantic ear-to-ear smile. Plus, given his arrogant attitude and his strive to make people believe he's the sexiest thing alive, he'd fit in perfectly with the other fake plastic dooshwaffles in LA :p

[Benign Despot]

Christiano IS a douchewaffle, I'm just surprised to hear that from someone living in Portugal.

[luso2kx]

Christiano IS a douchewaffle, I'm just surprised to hear that from someone living in Portugal.Don't be. He's not nearly as respected as Figo or even Pauleta, save for the teeny bopper sluts who hang posters of him up next to posters of Justin Timberlake. He's a punk and there's ALOT of people here who can't stand him. A self-absorbed prima donna who has no sense of team spirit whatsoever, which is a stark comparison to the previous 2 I mentioned.

Hell, after the 2006 WC, when the team arrived in Lisbon, he was the only players the fans at the airport booed, and booed loudly.

[JD10367]

So, lemme get this straight... they're doing qualifying rounds now for a WC tourney that won't be for over another year? :huh: No wonder I don't follow soccer.

Any tournaments coming up relatively soon to watch?

[Benign Despot]

Hell, after the 2006 WC, when the team arrived in Lisbon, he was the only players the fans at the airport booed, and booed loudly.

Cool, I may have to promote Portugal to "The team I root for when the Americans are eliminated in the group stage".

[luso2kx]

Cool, I may have to promote Portugal to "The team I root for when the Americans are eliminated in the group stage".Well, don't get your hopes up. I don't see the Tugas qualifying for S. Africa. After Scolari left, the FPF, apparently not following the quote of General Sant'Anna, hired Carlos Queiroz, a clown who I still haven't forgiven for not qualifying us in 1994. And so far, he hasn't surprised me one bit after a loss against Denmark(who we had a historic winning record against) and a tie AGAINST ALBANIA!!

Well, to quote "You Can't Do That on Television": Back to reality...

[Benign Despot]

So, lemme get this straight... they're doing qualifying rounds now for a WC tourney that won't be for over another year? :huh: No wonder I don't follow soccer.

Any tournaments coming up relatively soon to watch?

The National Teams are wrapped up in qualifying so even if they hold the Gold Cup this year it'll be with the 2nd team guys,

The best annual tournament to watch is the Champions League, ESPN will cover it live which US time means later afternoon

[anderson]

Well, don't get your hopes up. I don't see the Tugas qualifying for S. Africa. After Scolari left, the FPF, apparently not following the quote of General Sant'Anna, hired Carlos Queiroz, a clown who I still haven't forgiven for not qualifying us in 1994. And so far, he hasn't surprised me one bit after a loss against Denmark(who we had a historic winning record against) and a tie AGAINST ALBANIA!!

Well, to quote "You Can't Do That on Television": Back to reality...

Albania can be given some credit at home. I assume because every opposing player is afraid of getting stabbed (by players, fans or refs).

I think Portugal will qualify, but I don't think we will see another title contending Portugal side for a number of years.

And yes, Cronaldo is a dumb slut.

[anderson]

The National Teams are wrapped up in qualifying so even if they hold the Gold Cup this year it'll be with the 2nd team guys,

The best annual tournament to watch is the Champions League, ESPN will cover it live which US time means later afternoon

Speaking of which, some outstanding matchups this week in the CPL.
Madrid seems to have hit form against a Liverpool team that seems to always do pretty well in the CPL (although without Stevie G, who knows). Juventus will be playing Chelsea. Good stuff.

[anderson]

So, lemme get this straight... they're doing qualifying rounds now for a WC tourney that won't be for over another year? :huh: No wonder I don't follow soccer.

Any tournaments coming up relatively soon to watch?

The World Cup is only every 4 years and the reason why qualifiers are being held already is because most players have home League games to play for their respective clubs. There are plenty of good tournaments all the time. The Premier League, Spanish Primera, Serie A in Italy (and maybe even the Bundesliga in Germany, although I don't follow that at all).

On top of this, the Champions League (which is a tournament for the best placed clubs in the national leagues) and the UEFA cup (upper middle teams qualify through national leagues).

[Benign Despot]

Seems like a down year in England to me, I don't think you'll see 3 Premiership teams in the semis this year. Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal have all taken siginificant steps backward, And I'm not convinced United is really that good, just that the competition in the EPL has fallen.

[anderson]

Seems like a down year in England to me, I don't think you'll see 3 Premiership teams in the semis this year. Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal have all taken siginificant steps backward, And I'm not convinced United is really that good, just that the competition in the EPL has fallen.

Liverpool is better than normal.
Arsenal are in a transition phase and Wenger is gambling it up by playing Arshavin, Nasri, Van Persie and Bendtner at the same time.
Chelsea never seemed to fully recover from Mourinho leaving, but Hiddink has turned around teams before and there is a huge talent pool there.
United have been fairly fortunate this year with a number of questionable 1-0 wins, but they remain a strong side.

If anything, competition has risen in the EPL, not fallen (mid teams are stronger).

[anderson]

Chelsea v Juventus tonight.
Real Madrid v Liverpool.

anderson is excited.

[luso2kx]

FC Porto tied against Atl. Madrid yesterday. And Helton, once again, shows how he is the Peyton Manning of soccer goaltending(having a goal go right through his legs).

[Benign Despot]

Anderson, who's at home for these legs?

luso, Is Freddy Adu playing at all? Ever since he went to Portugal I haven't heard anything about him.

[ron1625]

Wednesday, 25 February 2009
<!--Fixture ID: 3095268-->Chelsea (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/default.stm) v Juventus,
<!--Fixture ID: 3095266-->Real Madrid v Liverpool (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/default.stm),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095267-->Sporting v Bayern Munich,


<!--Fixture ID: 3095265-->Villarreal v Panathinaikos, <HR class=greyline width="100%" noShade SIZE=1>Tuesday, 10 March 2009

<!--Fixture ID: 3095271, (first leg ID: 3095267)-->Bayern Munich v Sporting,
<!--Fixture ID: 3095272, (first leg ID: 3095268)-->Juventus v Chelsea (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/default.stm),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095270, (first leg ID: 3095266)-->Liverpool (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/default.stm)v Real Madrid,
<!--Fixture ID: 3095269, (first leg ID: 3095265)-->Panathinaikos v Villarreal,


<HR class=greyline width="100%" noShade SIZE=1>Wednesday, 11 March 2009
<!--Fixture ID: 3095274, (first leg ID: 3095262)-->Barcelona v Lyon, (agg 1-1),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095273, (first leg ID: 3095261)-->FC Porto v Atletico Madrid, (agg 2-2),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095277, (first leg ID: 3095264)-->Man Utd (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/default.stm) v Inter Milan, (agg 0-0),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095276, (first leg ID: 3095263)-->Roma v Arsenal (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/default.stm), (agg 0-1),

<!-- E IINC -->
Home teams in Red<!--template: $Id: //depot/feeds/Sport/SportsStatsV3/main/SOLRenderService/xslt/football/fixtures/html/football_fixtures.html.xslt#2$ --><!-- E IINC -->

[luso2kx]

Anderson, who's at home for these legs?

luso, Is Freddy Adu playing at all? Ever since he went to Portugal I haven't heard anything about him.I think he's either riding the bench or is in the junior clubs of Benfica. Not sure.

[Ras]

So, lemme get this straight... they're doing qualifying rounds now for a WC tourney that won't be for over another year? :huh: No wonder I don't follow soccer.

Any tournaments coming up relatively soon to watch?

CONCACAF has their quarterfinals going on now. Last night, the Houston Dynamos tied Mexico's Atalante. I think tonight there is another match.

[anderson]

Watching the Madrid Liverpool match. Both teams have played well, Liverpool with a good few chances and having played a good game tactically, denying Madrid chances.

Still 0-0 at halftime. Alonso had a fantastic shot on goal from his own half, forcing a good save (in the dying seconds of the first half)

[ron1625]

Advantage Liverpool, they need to hold out now

[Benign Despot]

I think he's either riding the bench or is in the junior clubs of Benfica. Not sure.

I looked it up, he's riding the pine.

After all the hype about Freddy both Bradley and Altidore are going to be one whole hell of a lot better. The US has never had a real striker on the National Team, I really think Altidore has a chance to become that kind of player.

[ron1625]

Real Madrid v Liverpool (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/default.stm) 0-1
<!-- / message -->
Sporting v Bayern Munich, 0-5

Chelsea (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/default.stm) v Juventus, 1-0

Villarreal v Panathinaikos 1-1

[anderson]

More strong performances by Spain and England. Spain with 3 draws and a loss and england with 3 wins and a draw.

[Benign Despot]

Well I got to see Fulham play Liverpool this weekend.

Dempsey looked good, definitly belongs at that level, but Liverpool should have won. Van Persey couldn't find the net with a GPS in the game.

[Benign Despot]

I watched about 1/2 the Milan game this weekend and the David Beckham I saw on the field was not one with which I am familiar.

He was the most creative force on either side. Everything Milan did successfully was running through him. I was impressed.

[ron1625]

I watched about 1/2 the Milan game this weekend and the David Beckham I saw on the field was not one with which I am familiar.

He was the most creative force on either side. Everything Milan did successfully was running through him. I was impressed.
Becham has confirmed he will stay at Milan till the end off the Serie A season, he would also like to Own a MLS franchise when he retires

[ron1625]

Bayern Munich v Sporting, 7-1 (12-1 Agg)
<!--Fixture ID: 3095272, (first leg ID: 3095268)-->Juventus v Chelsea (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/default.stm), 2-2 (2-3 Agg)
<!--Fixture ID: 3095270, (first leg ID: 3095266)-->Liverpool (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/l/liverpool/default.stm)v Real Madrid, 4-0 (5-0 Agg)
<!--Fixture ID: 3095269, (first leg ID: 3095265)-->Panathinaikos v Villarreal, 1-2 ( 2-3 Agg)

[Benign Despot]

Sporting Lisbon?

WTF

[SkiptoMyLou]

Champions League is still going?

And it looks like Barcelona isn't in it. What the hell?!

I'm so out of the loop.
Posted via Mobile Device

[anderson]

Champions League is still going?

And it looks like Barcelona isn't in it. What the hell?!

I'm so out of the loop.
Posted via Mobile Device

Barcelona plays Lyon later today.

Also, notice two out of two English teams are through now. Liverpool in IMPRESSIVE fashion. They remain the only team to have beaten Madrid since December. (and they did it beautifully!)

Chelsea goes through in Turin and even though I am hoping Inter beats Manchester tonight (so that we may see Jose sliding across the goal line at Old Trafford again), I don't think it will happen.

Arsenal looks to have the toughest time of the English teams, but I fully expect to see two English sides in the semi finals.

[anderson]

Sporting Lisbon?

WTF

A team that doesn't understand that -not- containing Ribery is very bad news. 12-1 agg, just wow.

[luso2kx]

Sporting Lisbon?

WTFAnd how bad was it afterwards? Well, Sporting asked that the plane be re-routed from Lisbon Intl. Airport to Figo Maduro Military Airport as to avoid the crowds and STILL, there were about 50 irate Sporting fans booing as they got there.

http://ww1.rtp.pt/desporto/index.php?headline=37&visual=17&article=179775&tema=21

And Paulo Bento still has his job today. That SCP front office wouldn't know what to do if they ever attained some form of greatness. That team is a complete and utter joke. I mean, Benfica is terrible, but at least they know a little of what it's like to be winners.

Meanwhile, FC Porto, the only team worth mentioning in all of this(aside from Braga in UEFA Cup) plays today :)

[Benign Despot]

Barcelona-Lyon
Man. United-Internazionale
Porto-Atlético
Roma-Arsenal

Todays games.

Thoughts?

[anderson]

Barcelona-Lyon
Man. United-Internazionale
Porto-Atlético
Roma-Arsenal

Todays games.

Thoughts?

Barcelona - Lyon: Assuming a Barcelona walk-over. Barcelona currently play some of the best football of all times, however one off-day for Messi and they might be out (thinking in the quarters)

Man Utd - Inter: Man Utd are always strong and will most likely collect a draw or a small win here. Having said that there's the Mourinho factor. He has always had a good grip on Mancs.

Porto - Atletico: Question is if anyone outside of the respective fan bases even care.

Roma - Arsenal: Gunners played strongly at home, but they are still weak in the EPL. I am thinking they are gonna go full steam in this game though, to make up for recent results against Fulham, Sunderland, etc. I think they can manage a draw.

[Benign Despot]

Anyone at home and interested the ManU - Inter game will be on ESPN at 3:00

[Benign Despot]

Man Utd - Inter: Man Utd are always strong and will most likely collect a draw or a small win here. Having said that there's the Mourinho factor. He has always had a good grip on Mancs.



Not picking up a road goal is going to haunt Man U 1-1 and Inter goes through

[SkiptoMyLou]

I hate working in the afternoons. Two years ago, I'd work out, eat and sit on my lazy ass and enjoy the Champions League.

I need a TV with cable at work...

[luso2kx]

porto - atletico: Question is if anyone outside of the respective fan bases even care.:4321:

[ron1625]

Sporting Lisbon?

WTF
It was pitiful to say the least, kept channel hopping, everytime we went back to this game the score had increased, can only imagine what the Sporting fans were thinking at the final whistle :shrug:

[ron1625]

Barcelona v Lyon, (agg 1-1),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095273, (first leg ID: 3095261)-->FC Porto v Atletico Madrid, (agg 2-2),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095277, (first leg ID: 3095264)-->Man Utd (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/default.stm) v Inter Milan, (agg 0-0),
<!--Fixture ID: 3095276, (first leg ID: 3095263)-->Roma v Arsenal (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/default.stm), (agg 0-1),

Barcelona on current form should romp this match no problems

Advantage Arsenal, If they find their form they should win, predicting a close game tho.

Man Utd has the knack of sneaking the last minute winner, I dont think Sir Alex is worried about Inter Milan TBH

[anderson]

:4321:

Sorry dude, but both teams are irrelevant in the Champions League :(

(of course having said that, one of those teams will be lifting the big-ear cup)

[anderson]

Not picking up a road goal is going to haunt Man U 1-1 and Inter goes through

Sir, I salute you.

[luso2kx]

Sorry dude, but both teams are irrelevant in the Champions League :(

(of course having said that, one of those teams will be lifting the big-ear cup)That wasn't the case in 2004 :D

http://soccerlens.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/porto_2004_cl_final.jpg

[anderson]

That wasn't the case in 2004 :D

http://soccerlens.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/porto_2004_cl_final.jpg

See: Tampa Bay Bucs.
See: Greece European Cup

Etc. Porto played well in 2004, but they are still a huge non-factor right now.

[luso2kx]

See: Tampa Bay Bucs.
See: Greece European Cup

Etc. Porto played well in 2004, but they are still a huge non-factor right now.Also gotta remember who our coach was at the time:

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/the_limey/12/15/champs.draw/p1_mourinho_1215.jpg

Certainly not the same as the gandpa we have now in Jesualdo Ferreira :Eason:

[anderson]

Also gotta remember who our coach was at the time:

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/the_limey/12/15/champs.draw/p1_mourinho_1215.jpg

Certainly not the same as the gandpa we have now in Jesualdo Ferreira :Eason:

Yah, Mourinho (as much as I dislike his public antics) is a brilliant manager. So here's to Jose sliding across the Old Trafford goal line again.

[luso2kx]

Yah, Mourinho (as much as I dislike his public antics) is a brilliant manager. So here's to Jose sliding across the Old Trafford goal line again.Luso's wet soccer dream would be Mourinho either:

1) Going to the Portuguese national team, replacing that stiff Queiroz

or

2) Getting back on great terms with Pinto da Costa and coming back to coach FCP on a 10-year contract :D

[ron1625]

Luso's wet soccer dream would be Mourinho either:

1) Going to the Portuguese national team, replacing that stiff Queiroz

or

2) Getting back on great terms with Pinto da Costa and coming back to coach FCP on a 10-year contract :D
Coming back to coach in our Premiership would be a nightmare for you then :shrug:

[luso2kx]

See: Greece European CupAnd BTW, Curse You for bringing THAT up again :cuss:

[anderson]

Luso's wet soccer dream would be Mourinho either:

1) Going to the Portuguese national team, replacing that stiff Queiroz

or

2) Getting back on great terms with Pinto da Costa and coming back to coach FCP on a 10-year contract :D

Mine is a simultaneous strike on Old Trafford and Stamford bridge, the same way Giants stadium got torn in The Day the Earth Stood Still..

And if the nanobots managed to clear out Everton as well, yeah well...

[luso2kx]

Coming back to coach in our Premiership would be a nightmare for you then :shrug:It would be indifferent for me since I didn't mind him coaching FCP-England(aka Chelsea :D). But to any Portista, he's the Phoenix we all want to see rise up from the ashes once again and bring Porto back to world prominence.

[anderson]

And BTW, Curse You for bringing THAT up again :cuss:

Just change it to Denmark 1992 then :(

[anderson]

It would be indifferent for me since I didn't mind him coaching FCP-England(aka Chelsea :D). But to any Portista, he's the Phoenix we all want to see rise up from the ashes once again and bring Porto back to world prominence.

FcP Chelski - club merger.

[luso2kx]

Just change it to Denmark 1992 then :(If only one year, ONE STINKING YEAR, the Tugas are able to have a real striker(and not some converted midfielder or a past-his-prime Pauleta), we'd be putting stars atop our shield once and for all :)

[ron1625]

It would be indifferent for me since I didn't mind him coaching FCP-England(aka Chelsea :D). But to any Portista, he's the Phoenix we all want to see rise up from the ashes once again and bring Porto back to world prominence.
I doubt very much he'll return to Chelsea till Roman sells up tho:shrug:

[anderson]

Mourinho would do very well at Arsenal, I feel.. not that it's gonna happen, but yeah..

Lots of young talent and a lot of versatile players.

[anderson]

Bad news for Inter.

[anderson]

Bad news for Arsenal

[Benign Despot]

Bad news for Inter.

Still only needs one goal to go through

[Benign Despot]

Bad news for Arsenal

Yes, they may be screwed

[ron1625]

Long way to go yet

[German_Patriot]

A team that doesn't understand that -not- containing Ribery is very bad news. 12-1 agg, just wow.

Ribéry missed the second game. It was backups and 2nd-teamers kicking their asses.

[anderson]

Ribéry missed the second game. It was backups and 2nd-teamers kicking their asses.

Nice :)
Luca Toni was a good signing

[German_Patriot]

Nice :)
Luca Toni was a good signing

Sure. Btw, he's injured,too.

[anderson]

Sure. Btw, he's injured,too.

That much I knew :) I was just commenting..

[anderson]

BTW more bad news for Inter

[ron1625]

Man Utd (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/default.stm) v Inter Milan, 2-0 (agg 2-0),
Barcelona v Lyon, 5-2 (agg 6-3),
FC Porto v Atletico Madrid, 0-0 (agg 2-2), Away goal Rule Porto goes thro

Roma v Arsenal (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/default.stm), 1-0 (agg 1-1), Extra time

[Major A$$hole*]

albania can be given some credit at home. I assume because every opposing player is afraid of getting stabbed (by players, fans or refs).

wtf?

[luso2kx]

Biba o Porto Carago!

[anderson]

Biba o Porto Carago!

Man my predictions were awesome.

[Benign Despot]

Man my predictions were awesome.

We bow to our overlord :bow::bow::bow:

[Benign Despot]

Is anyone else wondering how well the next 4 teams in the premiership would do if they were in this competition?

[anderson]

Is anyone else wondering how well the next 4 teams in the premiership would do if they were in this competition?

Think Villa would do pretty well. Rest I don't think much of.

[Beer]

At the aboslute top of his game Beckham was a decent left mid who was a nice asset on free kicks. He may be the most overrated athlete in the history of the world (either him or Anna Kournikova).

He almost always played wide right mid. He's right footed. On occasion he would be right inside mid in a four four two.Usually for England.

[luso2kx]

The next(more improved) version of the Pauleta?

http://www.acorianooriental.pt/files/multimedia/fotos/22_desporto/_resize/5667.jpg

Ladies and Gents, Eliseu Ferreira, striker currently playing for Malaga of Spain and originally from here, Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal :D

Could very well be a fixture on the national team in the near future.

[anderson]

Gonna be interesting to see the draw for the next round..

[Benign Despot]

Gonna be interesting to see the draw for the next round..

If the 4 British Squads all play each other there will be an inquest

[anderson]

If the 4 British Squads all play each other there will be an inquest

I honestly think they should lower the amount of teams in the CL again. It's meant to be the champions league, not the 4 teams from the big leagues' league.

[Benign Despot]

I honestly think they should lower the amount of teams in the CL again. It's meant to be the champions league, not the 4 teams from the big leagues' league.

Problem is the "Champions" of the Dutch league and the Scottish league and apparently the Portuguese league totally suck ass.

Having multiple teams from Spain, England and Italy significantly raises the level of play.

[luso2kx]

Problem is the "Champions" of the Dutch league and the Scottish league and apparently the Portuguese league totally suck ass.Let me state this loud and clear so anyone in this thread gets it:

SPORTING IS NOT A CHAMPION TEAM IN PORTUGAL

That would be like saying the Philadelphia Eagles are NFL champs.

[Benign Despot]

Sorry man, 12-1 on aggregate reflects on the whole league.

[luso2kx]

Sorry man, 12-1 on aggregate reflects on the whole league.No it doesn't when you consider:

1) Porto was the champ last year and will probably be again this year

and

2) Porto ADVANCED to the next round after winning against Atl. Madrid on agg.

Out of "The Big 3" here in Portugal, FCP is the ONLY team that has their shit straight. Sporting and Benfica are about as well run as Enron.

[luso2kx]

Sorry man, 12-1 on aggregate reflects on the whole league.Plus, you should check out Braga in the UEFA Cup. Those guys are pretty scrappy too.

[Benign Despot]

So Porto = "The Big One"?

Even Scotland has 2.

Poor mans Bundeslega

[ron1625]

Is anyone else wondering how well the next 4 teams in the premiership would do if they were in this competition?
The next 4 are not really on Par with the Big 4, the remainder are a league apart IMO, just making up the numbers :blink:

[luso2kx]

So Porto = "The Big One"?

Even Scotland has 2.Benfica has it's merits every now and then when they wake up and realize that they have the talent to go very far. Sporting is just a joke of a club, period.

But some of the better teams are the ones that usually play in the UEFA Cup. Teams in the past such as Braga, Boavista, Paços de Ferreira, etc... usually put up a pretty good fight, but don't seem to reach the CL because they lack the same financial resources the Big 3 have to get the big players/good coach.

[anderson]

In the UK it will be interesting to see if Manchester City will become something with the massive budget they have now.. Took Chelsea a while to become a factor even after spending all that oil money..

As for Boavista, I remember they used to always be a good team in the UEFA cup

[anderson]

Manchester Utd v Liverpool: 1-4

A bit of an upset, but Liverpool seem to be doing that this season.

[BritPat]

Seems like a down year in England to me, I don't think you'll see 3 Premiership teams in the semis this year. Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal have all taken siginificant steps backward, And I'm not convinced United is really that good, just that the competition in the EPL has fallen.

Liverpool have improved by a fair amount this season, at least against the top clubs anyway (played 5, won 4, drawn 1) and the fact we're still in the title race in mid-March is an achievement in itself in comparison to previous seasons.

As for the league itself, I think that some of the lesser clubs (Villa, Everton etc) have improved, and are starting to have a go at the big boys when they play. You only have to look at the Champions League though to see the big difference between the English clubs and the rest - apart from Barca, they're by far the best 4 teams in Europe, and have been for a while.

Well I got to see Fulham play Liverpool this weekend.

Dempsey looked good, definitly belongs at that level, but Liverpool should have won. Van Persey couldn't find the net with a GPS in the game.

You mean Arsenal surely? That's who Van Persie plays for, plus we've only played Fulham once this season, and that was at Anfield back in October/November.

In the UK it will be interesting to see if Manchester City will become something with the massive budget they have now.. Took Chelsea a while to become a factor even after spending all that oil money..

As for Boavista, I remember they used to always be a good team in the UEFA cup

Chelsea were a good side before Abramovich arrived, and it didn't take them very long at all to win the league. City are pretty ruibbish save for a couple of players (Richards, De Jong, SWP, Robino) and it would take a mircale for them to get into the top 4 let alone anything else.

Manchester Utd v Liverpool: 1-4

A bit of an upset, but Liverpool seem to be doing that this season.

Liverpool were superb, not quite as good as in midweek mind, and simply outclassed United. Results like that though are once in a blue moon at Old Trafford.

I wonder if Gomezcat will comment? :cool:

[ron1625]

Liverpool were superb, not quite as good as in midweek mind, and simply outclassed United. Results like that though are once in a blue moon at Old Trafford.

I wonder if Gomezcat will comment? :cool:

Sir Alex said that Man Utd played the better game, Sorry I think all that drinking has blurred his vision, not sure if he was watching the same game :huh:, Liverpool outclassed them..end of Story !

[anderson]

Sir Alex said that Man Utd played the better game, Sorry I think all that drinking has blurred his vision, not sure if he was watching the same game :huh:, Liverpool outclassed them..end of Story !

Not the first time whiskey nose says stupid things like that.. Him and Mourinho.

[Benign Despot]

Any thoughts on the CL matchups this week. I wonder if the fatigue factor will effect the big clubs who had players jetting all over the world for the international break.

[ron1625]

Man Utd v FC Porto

Villareal v Arsenal

Early goals for Porto and Villareal, Porto take advantage with the Away Goal Rule over Man Utd

Man Utd draws level after some awful defending

[JD10367]

Man Utd v FC Porto

Villareal v Arsenal

Early goals for Porto and Villareal, Porto take advantage with the Away Goal Rule over Man Utd

Man Utd draws level after some awful defending

the Manchester-Porto game is on ESPN2 here, I caught the opening and the giveaway by Ronaldo. But now I've switched to Red Sox pregame. :)

[ron1625]

the Manchester-Porto game is on ESPN2 here, I caught the opening and the giveaway by Ronaldo. But now I've switched to Red Sox pregame. :)
probably a wise move ROFL

[Benign Despot]

Keep the updates coming ron, I'm in work

[ron1625]

Arsenal Goalkeeper Almunia is off the pitch, replaced by Fabianski. The keeper had what looked a minor knock in a collision with Rossi early on

[ron1625]

Arsenal Striker Gallas is stretchered off after clipped by Rossi as the attacker went down (twisting his knee) . came back on but had to leave again unable to continue

Half time

Man Utd v FC Porto 1-1

Villareal v Arsenal 0-1

[Benign Despot]

Damn, one sub left then, kinda tying Arsenal's hands behind their back

[ron1625]

Damn, one sub left then, kinda tying Arsenal's hands behind their back
Almunia twisted his ankle in the challenge, sub goalie doing ok at the moment, Arsenal will be playing the 2nd half in damage limitation mode!

[ron1625]

everytime a Villareal player gets fouled they gesture to the Ref to give a card out! this is the ugly side of Spanish football that should not be tolerated, if they try and get a player booked I happy to see that player booked instead, it will stop that happening!

[ron1625]

Goal...Arsenal pull one back...the vital Away goal!! (Adebayor)

[ron1625]

Goal.....Tevez comes off the bench and scores for Man Utd

5 minutes to go need to try and keep possession of better the ball now.

[ron1625]

Goal... slack defending and an easy goal for Porto (Mariano GONZALEZ)

[Benign Despot]

ManU putting their backs up against the wall.

[ron1625]

Last chance free kick for Man Utd, Giggs taken over the bar!

[ron1625]

Man Utd v FC Porto 2-2
Villareal v Arsenal 1-1

Advantage Porto and Arsenal

[Benign Despot]

United better not give up an early goal in the return leg.

edit: banner ad for the Revs in this thread , tricky interwebs

[ron1625]

United better not give up an early goal in the return leg.

edit: banner ad for the Revs in this thread , tricky interwebs
Porto only need to play for the Draw and they are through but the way they played I cant see it, they chased every ball and made Mr Charisma look rather ordinary!

[Benign Despot]

Mr Charisma = CR no?

[ron1625]

Mr Charisma = CR no?
how did ya guess ROFL

[ron1625]

Barcelona v Bayern Munich

Liverpool v Chelsea

5 minutes in Goal!!!! Torres...great strike

quick reply from Drogba saved

[ron1625]

Chelsea get a Goal back, the vital away goal,

IVANOVIC PULLS CHELSEA LEVEL! From a corner kick.

[ron1625]

Half Time

Barcelona v Bayern Munich 4-0

Liverpool v Chelsea 1-1

[gomezcat]

Chelsea get a Goal back, the vital away goal,

IVANOVIC PULLS CHELSEA LEVEL! From a corner kick.

Get in! We (United) deserved no more than a draw last night. The defence was all over the place and the midfield was dominated at times. The sooner Ronaldo f***s off, the better. Great player but a real cancer. Oh, and he might want to track back occasionally.

[gomezcat]

4-0 at half time? Ouch!

[ron1625]

4-0 at half time? Ouch!
Barcelona's into the semi's..no doubt, Bayern havent recovered from their drubbing on the weekend

[ron1625]

Get in! We (United) deserved no more than a draw last night. The defence was all over the place and the midfield was dominated at times. The sooner Ronaldo f***s off, the better. Great player but a real cancer. Oh, and he might want to track back occasionally.
Mr Charisma tried the fancy footwork but Failed miserably!

[German_Patriot]

Barcelona's into the semi's..no doubt, Bayern havent recovered from their drubbing on the weekend

They have to replace guys like Lell, Oddo and van Bommel if they want to be succesful next year. Now its just pain:hang:

[ron1625]

They have to replace guys like Lell, Oddo and van Bommel if they want to be succesful next year. Now its just pain:hang:
I'm watching the Liverpool/Chelsea, is the Barca/Bayern game as painful as it sounds?

[Benign Despot]

Is Barca that good, or is the Bundeslega that bad?

[ron1625]

John Terry booked for challenge on Reina..misses 2nd Leg

Goal Chelsea score, IVANOVIC from the corner again!

[ron1625]

Goal!!!! Drogba drives one in. Liverpool need another goal to keep the tie alive.

[ron1625]

Full Time

Barcelona v Bayern Munich 4-0

Liverpool v Chelsea 1-3<!-- / message -->

[gomezcat]

Full Time

Barcelona v Bayern Munich 4-0

Liverpool v Chelsea 1-3<!-- / message -->

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!! Can you tell that I hate Liverpool?

[ron1625]

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!! Can you tell that I hate Liverpool?
ROFL Dont really follow the football myself, more a fan of the Egg shaped ball coming from Gloster an all :blink:

[ron1625]

2nd Leg

Bayern Munich v Barcelona ( 0-4)

Chelseav Liverpool v 0-1 (3-2)

Liverpool score first, this tie is not over yet

Miracle required by Bayern<!-- / message --><!-- / message -->

[ron1625]

Penalty to Liverpool, Alonso held in the 18 yard area...Alonso takes and scores!!!

Chelsea v Liverpool v 0-2 (3-3)


Half Time

Chelsea v Liverpool v 0-2 (3-3)

Bayern Munich v Barcelona ( 0-4)

[ron1625]

Start of the 2nd half, early goal for Bayern, Franck Ribery

Drogba scores for Chelsea

Chelsea v Liverpool v 1-2 (4-3)

Bayern Munich v Barcelona 1-0 ( 1-4)<!-- / message --><!-- edit note -->

[ron1625]

Free kick taken by Alex, Chelsea scores again

Chelsea v Liverpool v 2-2 (5-3)

[ron1625]

Chelsea v Liverpool v 3-2 (6-3)

Lampard score for Chelsea, surely this tie is over and Chelsea will travel to Barcelona for the Semi-finals

Bayern Munich v Barcelona 1-1 ( 1-5) Keita scores for Barca<!-- / message --><!-- edit note --><!-- / message --><!-- / message -->

[ron1625]

Chelsea v Liverpool v 3-3 (6-4) Lucas (81 mins)for Liverpool

[ron1625]

Chelsea v Liverpool v 3-4(6-5) Kuyt (82 mins) for Liverpool, spoke to soon!

[Benign Despot]

Sounds like a hell of a game but surely Liverpool can't score twice in the last 10 minutes or so

[ron1625]

only need one more, the away goal rule as long as Chelsea dont score again

[ron1625]

Chelsea v Liverpool v 4-4(7-5)

Lampard (89 mins)for Chesea, no way back from here now!!

3 minutes of added time

[ron1625]

Final Score

Bayern Munich v Barcelona 1-1 ( 1-5 agg)

Chelsea v Liverpool v 4-4 (7-5 agg)

[ron1625]

Semi-Final 1st Leg Final Score

Barcelona v Chelsea 0-0

[Benign Despot]

A win for chelski.

Any predictions for today?

One I feel comfortable making is the game will have at least 3 goals.

[ron1625]

Semi-Final 2nd Leg


Chelsea take an early lead courtesy of ESSIEN

Chelsea v Barcelona 1-0
<!-- / message -->

[Benign Despot]

I want Barca to fall just because I'm tired of hearing how "beautiful" they play

[ron1625]

Barcelona down to 10 men

[Benign Despot]

No contact there, the Chelsea player tripped himself up.

[ron1625]

The Refs having a nightmare, he wont be officiating the Final

[Benign Despot]

I can only assume he decided to overlook the hand ball to make up for the phantom red card

[ron1625]

Commentators made a valid point, he may be a EUFA ref but games of this level deserve the best refs available

[ron1625]

4 minutes of extra time, where from?

[Benign Despot]

Ouch!!!!

[ron1625]

Barcelona clinch a goal back, chelsea has to score quickly

[Benign Despot]

Sucks, I thought Chelea was the better team and deserved the result

[ron1625]

time running down fast now

[Benign Despot]

Stck a fork in it, no way Chelsea gets a goal now

[Benign Despot]

Ball to arm, no call

[ron1625]

sorry Balak but that wasnt Hand Ball :shake:

[ron1625]

Chelsea v Barcelona 1-1

Away goal rule Barcelona go on to Rome, Manchester United await them, the two biggest clubs in Europe

[ron1625]

Drogba keeps protesting and gets a yellow card after the end of play, games over time to shut up!

Chelsea not happy they were denied at least 3 penalties

[Benign Despot]

One thing for sure, he's not changing his mind, no matter how much Drogba bitches. Let the manager rip the ref in his press conferance.

If Drogba didn't lay on the field for an exteded rest period the final whistle would have blown.

[ron1625]

Drogba has apologised for his behaviour and tone of his language during his outburst after the game ended, he is supposed to be a role model for kids?! (what a shining example of how not to behave)

Will he escape the Wrath of EUFA, after the match has been reviewed and the Refs report analyzed I very much doudt it. This match is likely to come back and bite him on the butt before too long

[Benign Despot]

Man U 3
Barca 1

on a late goal for Barca

[ron1625]

See this one going the distance again, penalties to finish it off

Charisma Ronaldo launches his attempt into the Colluseum ROFL

[SkiptoMyLou]

When is the final? I might have to call off work to watch this. Barca is looking like they can take CL and La Liga. Not too shabby.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Benign Despot]

I just noticed Fulham is 7th in the table with 2 games to play (Newcastle and Everton) if they hold that spot that get's them a spot in the UEFA Cup next year dosn't it?

[ron1625]

I just noticed Fulham is 7th in the table with 2 games to play (Newcastle and Everton) if they hold that spot that get's them a spot in the UEFA Cup next year dosn't it?
Ver true, the way Newcastle appears to be sliding down the slope to relegation they should secure a win there, Everton is a different story tho

[Benign Despot]

Ver true, the way Newcastle appears to be sliding down the slope to relegation they should secure a win there, Everton is a different story tho

Playing them at the cottage though

[ron1625]

Playing them at the cottage though
Theres a lot to play for Everton wont give up on a place in Europe easily, the financial gain for the qualifying clubs are potentially massive

[Benign Despot]

Everton looks pretty safe for UEFA and mathematically impossible for the CL so I don't think they have much to play for.

[ron1625]

Everton looks pretty safe for UEFA and mathematically impossible for the CL so I don't think they have much to play for.
Pride is a powerful motivator, finish on a high and they go into next season full of confidence

[ron1625]

Wigan have just scored against the Champions Elect!

[ron1625]

Tevez just scored to bring them level

[Benign Despot]

CR will score the game winner in extra time, just to ruin your evening.

[ron1625]

CR will score the game winner in extra time, just to ruin your evening.
I fekin hope not :banghead:, anything but that:rolleyes:

[ron1625]

Carrick just pulled Man utd a goal clear they could virtualy clinch the premiership tonight

[ron1625]

1 Point required from 2 matches, Arsenal could spoil the Party and Hull City are fighting for survival, its not over yet!

[Benign Despot]

My official Champions League Prediction

ManUre 3
Barca 1

[SkiptoMyLou]

Barca 1
Man U 0

I'm willing to bet Man U will park the bus, and it'll be a slow game. But Barca has too much talent, and will end up scoring. I just hope it's a good game. I called off work for tomorrow just to watch this; it better be worth it!

[ron1625]

Barca 1
Man U 0

I'm willing to bet Man U will park the bus, and it'll be a slow game. But Barca has too much talent, and will end up scoring. I just hope it's a good game. I called off work for tomorrow just to watch this; it better be worth it!
:thumb:, if the Right Barca turned out it should be :blink:

[Benign Despot]

I don't love ManU but I saw with my own eyes that Barca can be shut down, and ManU has the players to not only shut down Barca's attack like Chelski did, but to push forward and attack at the same time.

[ron1625]

9 mins in Barca takes the initiative, well poached goal

[ron1625]

Man Utd's accuracey and ability to keep the ball seems Woeful, serious team talk in the half time break, Sir Alex will have steam coming out of his ears...who's for the boot now??

[ron1625]

2-0 Messe makes it count. Man Utd has to respond quickly

[Benign Despot]

OK maybe I was mistaken

[ron1625]

Congratulations Barcelona FC .

European Champions League Winners 2009

[SkiptoMyLou]

Barca 1
Man U 0

I'm willing to bet Man U will park the bus, and it'll be a slow game. But Barca has too much talent, and will end up scoring. I just hope it's a good game. I called off work for tomorrow just to watch this; it better be worth it!

I was right for about 60 minutes. Great game to watch, though. Barca just had a dream season.

Totally worth blowing off work to watch this game. :thumb:

[gomezcat]

Barca the better team by a long way. Congrats to them. They were loads better technically and really, really wanted it. That midfield has to be the best in the world and Iniesta was brilliant as usual. We could have been beaten 4 or 5-0 and it would have been a fair result.

It says a lot about how much I have lost my passion for United and soccer that my reaction after the second goal was just wanting the game to end. I have supported United for 30 years and am actually from Manchester, btw. I used to be devastated after every loss and would once have been inconsolable. Now I'm sad but that's about it. Why? Well, it's like we long time fans (whether from Manchester or not) are no longer welcome.

A friend of mine, who was a season ticket holder for years, was told to stop singing by some bandwaggoner wanker at a recent game. He's decided to pack it in (watching United, not singing). A lot of old United fans, who witnessed the Second Divsion (I was too young for that) and mediocrity (which I did witness) have stopped going. We feel alienated.

Increasingly, the game is marketed at people who are from anywhere but Manchester. When we stop winning stuff, they'll be begging us to come back. F*** knows if I'll bother. Depends who is running the club and whether they allow us to get behind our team.

I hate the fact that an egotistical wanker like Ronaldo plays for United, or that someone like Carlos Tevez, who works his arse off, doesn't get to start every game. It really pisses me off.

I hate them interviewing fans from wherever who were probably Liverpool fans when they were good. I detest the Glazers and the prawn sandwich brigade. I hate being made to feel like a second class citizen in the city of my birth (and twelve years of my childhood) because I dare to sing on the tram after a game.

I think the really sad thing for me was that I hurt much, much worse when the Pats lost to the Giants (amongst other results). At least I knew that the players gave everything they had and I adore their passion. I can't say that the United players gave it everything. Increasingly in English soccer, it seems to be about preening, falling over and ego.

[Benign Despot]

When I started to follow English soccer a couple of years ago, I swore I'd never support United, Liverpool, Arsenal or Chelsea.

Luckily for me Dempsey went over and joined up with Fulham so that's it (although the rest of he Americans are gone).

Pick some 2nd division side and throw your heart at them. I doubt Wigan or Wimbledon will ever become a multi-national conglomerate.

[Benign Despot]

Entertaining game last night as the UM MNT came back to beat Honduras 2-1

Mexico is in deep do-do. If they lose to the US in their next qualifier Scen Goran Erickson will need 24 hour police protection.

[Benign Despot]

So CR is on his way to Real.

Leaving playing time for Tevez at Old Trafford and a boatload of money to spend (or to service the debt)

Thoughts from GC and ron?

[German_Patriot]

Seems that ManU wants to sign Ribéry.

[ron1625]

So CR is on his way to Real.

Leaving playing time for Tevez at Old Trafford and a boatload of money to spend (or to service the debt)

Thoughts from GC and ron?
Glad that he's finally done what was on the cards for a very long time, at least now his smug face wont be shown all the time, used to watch a fair bit of La Liga but gave that a rest for a while. what was it he and Sir Alex said not 12 months ago...going nowhere....Katching!!!! money talks!

As for Tevez, not 100% sure he's going to be around, a strange to set up contracts, Man Utd dont actually own him :huh: and he wasn't really happy there this season, time will tell :rolleyes:

[gomezcat]

Those of you who read my rant above will be aware of my feelings. Every long-term United fan I have asked agrees re Ronaldo, his antics and the shame he has brought to United (admittedly, I don't know that many anymore) . He is the only United player I have watched and shouted "get up" when he hit the deck.

United need to buy a replacement for Hargreaves if he doesn't come back. The team needs a) more searing pace and b) more aggression.

[pats-blue]

Those of you who read my rant above will be aware of my feelings. Every long-term United fan I have asked agrees re Ronaldo, his antics and the shame he has brought to United (admittedly, I don't know that many anymore) . He is the only United player I have watched and shouted "get up" when he hit the deck.

United need to buy a replacement for Hargreaves if he doesn't come back. The team needs a) more searing pace and b) more aggression.

Sorry Rodney only plays "real" football....not FUTBAL...can't you English guys spell?

I've always loved the singing at soccer games...the "hooligans" should be shot on sight...but the tens of thousands of singing fans throughout a game I always thought was great....freaking horns, flares going off...pure insanity....great.

Oh and BD I hope Mex does lose that would be fantastic, bunch of dirty players they are, huge floppers also.

[gomezcat]

Sorry Rodney only plays "real" football....not FUTBAL...can't you English guys spell?

I've always loved the singing at soccer games...the "hooligans" should be shot on sight...but the tens of thousands of singing fans throughout a game I always thought was great....freaking horns, flares going off...pure insanity....great.

Oh and BD I hope Mex does lose that would be fantastic, bunch of dirty players they are, huge floppers also.

:bang::donkeys::zombie:. Bad Pats Blue! :whip2:

Personally, my spelling of Football would be Football. Futbal was BD's spelling, not mine!

Seriously, I use Soccer on here and describe (American) Football as Football.

The other point is a good one. Singing is f***ing fantastic and is almost spiritual when there are thousands of you. Hooligans, btw, are violent thugs and not to be confused with people who get a bit boisterous.

[pats-blue]

:bang::donkeys::zombie:. Bad Pats Blue! :whip2:

Personally, my spelling of Football would be Football. Futbal was BD's spelling, not mine!

Seriously, I use Soccer on here and describe (American) Football as Football.

The other point is a good one. Singing is f***ing fantastic and is almost spiritual when there are thousands of you. Hooligans, btw, are violent thugs and not to be confused with people who get a bit boisterous.

No question GC about the hooligans, never confused them with the fun boisterous crowd...you know the ones waving flags as big as the ones flown at car dealships here? I am not a soccer fan really at all...I watch WC soccer if the US is doing any good only pretty much....that being said in response to your rant....

While I overall do not find soccer that great, watching what a great time the fun boisterous singing fans have at some of these games makes me WANT to be there. IT just seems to be a great time, love the passion...too bad they seem determined to crush it.

[Benign Despot]

On my bucket list is to take in at least one big European Derby, preferable NOT one of the ones like Rangers-Celtic that's liekly to turn into a riot.

I've heard tell that Boca Jrs./River Plate (Argentina) is the most intense rivalry in all sport.

NB I used Futbal (spanish spelling) just to differentiate, it's a convention a lot of youth soccer clubs in this area use. P-B I can totally appreciate your thoughts on the sport. 90% of it is just cultural. Soccer's not big in the US cause other sports are.

[gomezcat]

On my bucket list is to take in at least one big European Derby, preferable NOT one of the ones like Rangers-Celtic that's liekly to turn into a riot.

I've heard tell that Boca Jrs./River Plate (Argentina) is the most intense rivalry in all sport.

NB I used Futbal (spanish spelling) just to differentiate, it's a convention a lot of youth soccer clubs in this area use. P-B I can totally appreciate your thoughts on the sport. 90% of it is just cultural. Soccer's not big in the US cause other sports are.

You would have to pay through the nose to get tickets for Rangers-Celtic. If you think that game might turn into a riot, you REALLY want to stay clear of any game involving Boca and River Plate. When Argentina are playing, the rivalry is so bad that they sit in separate parts of the ground.
Also, avoid Lazio-Roma like the plague...

[SkiptoMyLou]

NB I used Futbal (spanish spelling) just to differentiate, it's a convention a lot of youth soccer clubs in this area use. P-B I can totally appreciate your thoughts on the sport. 90% of it is just cultural. Soccer's not big in the US cause other sports are.

It's actually futból, but I totally agree with the rest.

Anyway, any of you guys catch the Confederation's Cup?

US got thrashed by Italy, Guiseppe Rossi (US born and raised) scored two goals for Italy. But Brazil - Egypt game was a good one. Definitely looking forward to see what Spain can do against the stronger teams, and Brazil - Italy game on Sunday.

[Benign Despot]

Only saw highlights, the red card was bullshit (a yellow for a reckless foul would have been fair). on the other hand Altidore took a dive.

[ron1625]

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has been given a six-match European ban for his outburst during the club's Champions League semi-final against Barcelona

Ivory Coast captain Drogba harangued Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo after the final whistle before directing a foul-mouthed tirade at a television camera.

The final two matches of the ban are suspended for two years.

Jose Bosingwa was given a four-game ban, with the final match suspended for two years, for also being "in breach of the principles of sportsmanship by insulting the referee by making offensive comments".

Chelsea were fined £85,000 for the improper conduct of their players and the throwing of missiles by their fans.
Either the club or the players may appeal against the decision within three days and Chelsea said on their website that they are considering a response.

Barcelona went through to the final against Manchester United (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/manchester-united/) on away goals after the match at Stamford Bridge ended in a 1-1 draw.
A tense semi-final second leg turned nasty when Barcelona's Andres Iniesta (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/andres-iniesta.html) scored in the third minute of stoppage time to level an early goal by Michael Essien (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/michael-essien.html), sending Chelsea out of the competition on the away goals rule.

Drogba, and other Chelsea players, were furious that several strong penalty claims had been turned down during the match.
Bosingwa later described the referee as "a thief" when talking to Portuguese television. Both players later apologised for their reactions.

Chelsea's Germany captain Michael Ballack (http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/michael-ballack.html) escaped any punishment despite charging after Ovrebo when another penalty appeal was waved away as they searched for a last-gasp winner.

[Benign Despot]

OK

The highly improbable happened.

I'm not really surprised the US beat Egypt, but I didn't really expect it.

I AM surprised that it was a 3-0 finish.

I'm stunned the Italians were beaten 3-0 by Brazil.

While I expect Spain to put a fair hurting on Uncle Sam's boys, I guess going through is going through.

[SkiptoMyLou]

Yeah, that was pretty nuts. The US finally put a good game after getting run over Brazil and Italy. Egypt looked like an empty shell of themselves in that game, they looked as if they gave up in the second half.

It should be interesting how Spain pairs up with the US, game is at 1:30 central, but I'll be at work. Ugh.

I highly expect to see a Spain vs. Brazil final.

[Benign Despot]

I'd like to say I was confident that the US would give Spain (#1 in the FIFA world ranking) a game but I'd be lying.

I'll be optimistic.

Spain 2
US 0

[Benign Despot]

1-0 US on a goal by Josie Altidore

[Benign Despot]

1st 1/2 in the books and a 1-0 lead for US.

Kind of a bitch I can't watch it though

[Benign Despot]

Based on the internet commentary US is hanging on in the 66th minute

[ron1625]

2-0 Upset on the cards for Spain

[ron1625]

How much will this victory raise the profile of Soccer in the USA?

[Benign Despot]

Not much Ron, the folks who follow the game will appreciate it but for others it's a minor tournemnt

[Benign Despot]

Still fricking AWESOME though

[ron1625]

Not much Ron, the folks who follow the game will appreciate it but for others it's a minor tournemnt
thought as much, would be nice to see USA as an emerging team on the world stage, this is a major upset for Spain IMO, but they will bounce back playing at the highest level, this goes to prove that they aren't Invincible to all the European teams but I would hazard a guess that their coach wont let them forget this in a hurry

[Benign Despot]

Not to say it's not a big win for USA Soccer. It shows that on any given day we can play with the big boys.

It's not going to suddenly vault the sport into the mainstream though.

[ron1625]

Not to say it's not a big win for USA Soccer. It shows that on any given day we can play with the big boys.

It's not going to suddenly vault the sport into the mainstream though.
:thumb: got ya

[harrisonhits]

<<
this is a major upset for Spain IMO
>>

More than major it is absolutely stunning. Spain is the favorite to win the next World Cup and was on a 35 game winning streak in championship and world cup tourneys, tied with Brazil for the most ever. We robbed them of their glory, kind of like what the Giants did to the Pats in the SB.

[Benign Despot]

So Landon Donavan was extensively quoted in Grant Wuhl's book absolutely ripping David Beckham a new one.

He's a bad teamate.

He attempted to have one of his buds installed as de facto GM

He's been sulking since Ruud Guillet was fired.

He treats the MLS as a joke.

He's totally divorced from his teamates.

He's clueless

Sounds pretty much on the money to me. I think we can declare the Beckham Experiment a total disaster for all concerned.

[anderson]

Donovan actually comes across as a bit of a whiner in that excerpt that I read on SI.com.
Having said that, I'm sure Victoria Beckham had more to do with this scheming than David did. She's the one that's been in bed with 19 management from the get-go from what I understand.

Also: Madrid buying Benzema and saying they are not done signing. They're gonna be in such trouble if they don't buy a midfielder who can tackle, though. Just like when they gave up Makalele.

[Benign Despot]

Real is chasing Barca and I don't think they are close to catching up.

La Liga has a contract with ESPN next year so I'm going to have to adopt a team. I'm leaning towards Villereal (if Altidore gets on the field)

[Benign Despot]

Anderson is Beckham a soccer version of Johnny Damon? Just to fricking dumb to hold accountable for anything?

[anderson]

Anderson is Beckham a soccer version of Johnny Damon? Just to fricking dumb to hold accountable for anything?

It's always been heavily rumored that he's just being dragged around by Victoria and is really just a guy who loves playing football.

Every interview I've seen seems to lend itself towards that conclusion. But who knows for sure?


As for Madrid and Barcelona: The additions of Adbiol, Kaka, Cronaldo and Benzema (plus one more major signing) is completely crazy. On paper they certainly match Barcelona player for player now, but I think that they will have the same trouble as before that no one wants to tackle on that team.
They need someone like Alonso or Arbeloa to do the sweeping up. Incidentally they are targetting both Arbeloa and Alonso quite hard.

[anderson]

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[Benign Despot]

:Ohbaby:

[Benign Despot]

If another starter on the US team gets injured I'm calling for an investigation.

Davies, Oneywu and now Dempsey...WTF?

[anderson]

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